This was written by Angela from Sake Puppets for the Miss Matatabi Maker series.

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Hello Matatabis!

Sometimes the stars align and the right fabric shows up on your doorstep the same week you order a new pattern, and you can’t ignore the good fortune. I didn’t plan this combination in advance. But there they were, together, and … poof! a dress was born!

The pattern is Colette’s Moneta dress for knits. I simplified it a lot – I omitted the pockets, collar and sleeves so the pattern was only four easy pieces. I self-lined the bodice so my topside is hugged in a double layer of this quilted poly knit, making it super warm, even without sleeves! It was a windy day — please ignore the crazy bangs — but I was comfortable frolicking outside, in New York, in October. Miraculous! I also added three inches to the hem, and hand-stitched it for clean finish.

Because I was winging-it and eager to finish, I didn’t have all of the required supplies on hand. The pattern directions recommend using clear elastic to create the gathered waistline before attaching the skirt to the bodice. I didn’t have any clear elastic, so instead I used thin regular waistband elastic that got bunchy and weird next to my serged seams. It’s nothing a little belt can’t fix, but I was irritated nonetheless.

Last month Frances chose this same fabric for a knit top she made for herself and gave it a thumbs up. I whole-heartedly agree. I thought the fabric was easy to work with, soft, and really warm. I have a feeling this dress will quickly become a staple of my winter work wardrobe. It is so cozy that I’ve scrabbled together all the scraps and plan to make myself some winter pjs – it’s so soft, I just can’t resist.

Thanks for having me, Miss Matatabi! Happy fall, and see you all soon!
Thank you Angela! Connect with Angela on her blog, instagram, facebook, pinterest.