Paris Dress
In this sewing class, you’ll learn how to sew the Paris dress for little ones—a gorgeous dress with puff sleeves, pleats in the skirt, and buttons all the way down the back. It’s simply beautiful! Patterns are included in sizes from 9 months to 11 years.
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 Paris Dress, a children’s occasion dress with an underbust seam, puff sleeves, and a skirt shaped with large, defined pleats.
The back opens from neckline to hem with a full row of buttons. Fabric and button choices can give the dress a festive look or suit other special occasions.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Stabilize curved edges with stay tape or staystitching.
- Form accurate skirt pleats and match them to the bodice.
- Gather the sleeve caps for controlled shoulder volume.
- Attach, trim, and turn the neckline facing.
- Set in the sleeves and join the bodice to the skirt.
- Finish the back with buttonholes and buttons.
Fabric and supplies
Choose a nonstretch woven fabric. Poplin and Viyella are demonstrated, while lightweight corduroy, twill, and gabardine-style fabric are also suggested.
For crisp pleats, select a skirt fabric that presses and holds a fold well. Viyella creates a warmer version, while gabardine gives the pleats more definition.
Make it your own
Use one fabric throughout or combine a printed bodice with a solid skirt to emphasize the dress’s two-part shape.
- Choose statement buttons for the full back opening.
- Use a straight, twin-needle, or decorative hem stitch.
- Check the skirt length before hemming.
Pattern sizes
The pattern covers 9/12 months through 10/11 years. The chart spans heights of 74–140 cm, chests of 49–74 cm, waists of 48–65 cm, and hips of 51–76 cm.
A4 and A0 files are provided. See how to use a PDF sewing pattern if you need help preparing the pattern.
This intermediate class covers the pleated skirt, puff sleeves, neckline facing, and full buttoned back without assuming advanced sewing experience.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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