Catherine Dress
In this class, we’ll learn how to sew the Catherine strappy dress, featuring a beautiful buttoned back band. Patterns in sizes 34/36 through 54/56 are included.
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew the Catherine, a strappy summer dress with a button front, side-seam pockets, a waist seam, and a softly gathered skirt.
The open-back design features a buttoned connecting band and an elasticized lower edge.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Sew the shaped front bodice darts.
- Bind and topstitch the bodice edges.
- Make narrow straps and secure them in the back bodice.
- Construct the buttoned back band and elastic casing.
- Gather the skirt evenly to fit the bodice.
- Add side-seam pockets with understitched openings.
- Finish the front and back closures.
Fabric and supplies
The dress can be made in woven or knit fabric. Linen, chambray, lightweight summer denim, and a linen knit without elastane are demonstrated or recommended.
Use interfacing at the front and back button areas. On woven fabrics, stabilize curved or bias-cut edges with stay tape or staystitching to prevent distortion.
Make it your own
Lengthen the skirt for an ankle- or floor-length dress, allowing for the final hem. You can also adjust the original length during fitting.
Try on the dress before securing the straps so you can refine their length. You can also adjust the button placement while keeping each closure functional.
Pattern sizes
The home-print pattern includes sizes 34/36–54/56. Select the size that most closely matches your measurements before tracing and cutting.
For help preparing the file, see how to use a PDF sewing pattern.
This intermediate project has several stages, including bound bodice edges, pockets, gathers, elastic, straps, and front and back button closures.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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