ANNA Mum Dress - Woman 34-46 - PDF Sewing Pattern

The style was what drew me to the pattern. I am an experienced dressmaker and have found the pattern it's self and instructions just fine. Where I have had the problem is the size - I am size 18 (UK) and ordered the 46 based on measurement advice provided - it is huge, so far I have taken off 4cm at each side of the bodice and it is still coming up big, I have set the sleeves twice and they still need to come in another 9 cm on either side to fit. I wish the patterns were provided in a range of sizes, as tends to be usual, then you could use a smaller size if required or at least a smaller size available at a heavily reduced cost if one has already been purchased.

I purchased this patter as I liked the overall look of the dress. However, the instructions are slightly confusing. It says 3m of fabric is required to make long dress with short sleeves. I’m a slim build size 10 and I struggled to fit all the pieces on the fabric. It would also be beneficial to know beforehand which pieces need to be interfaced rather than finding out as I go along.

I bought this pattern because of the attractive photograph here showing the summer dress made from viscose crepe. I enjoy wearing summer dresses which are comfortable in the heat and also provide some protection from the sun. I made this dress in a cotton gauze fabric and it feels like wearing a summer breeze. Although full length. the gathered tiers feel airy and the short sleeves provide the shoulder protection that I like. Of course it also has very practical pockets.

I encountered no problems in downloading the Pdf pattern and appreciated the option to print a single size. The instructions are very thorough (and available in English) and include a quick 'bullet point' list of stages as well as detailed instructions with clear diagrams. I like the unusual cross back which was easy to construct. The facings are attached in 2 stages but this process was well-explained and posed no problems. I omitted the ties on the sleeves (and gathered them into a band) as a personal choice. There are so many ways that this pattern can be adapted to personal choice and to the seasons! I look forward to making an Autumn version with the longer sleeves.