There are few things I love more than a versatile sewing pattern. The Nell pattern from Tilly and the Buttons is a new addition to my sewing pattern library and I already know it’s going to be a staple. Nell is a mix and match blouse and dress pattern, with two blouse options, two dress options, two closure options, and four sleeve options. And pockets. Can’t forget about the pockets! The beginner-level pattern is for woven fabrics, like poplin, linen blends, or flannel. Using the Minerva Sewing kit, I made my Nell dress from Dreamy Doodles cotton lawn and used snaps and faux ties for the closure.
Let’s first talk about Nell – can you say options galore?! You can make a straight blouse. You can make a blouse with a flowy peplum waist. You can make a knee-length dress. You can make a longer, midi-length dress. You can have patch pockets on your bodice or on your skirt. You can use regular buttons or snaps with faux ties to close your garment. And you can choose short sleeves, puffball sleeves, flutter sleeves or long sleeves with any of the above! There are even instructions on how to add in-seam pockets in lieu of the patch pockets. The options are mind-blowing!
The fabric I used is the Minerva Exclusive Dreamy Doodles Supima cotton lawn in blush. I was a little concerned that the light-colored cotton lawn wouldn’t be opaque, but that ended up not being an issue. The fabric is light and breathable, which is perfect for these warm and humid summer months. I used my serger/overlocker to finish the seams, but I think this fabric would be lovely with French seams. I plan on making the blouse version with French seams to test out my theory. French seams and flutter sleeves in a floaty fabric? Absolutely fabulous!
This was my first time making faux ties and I think they are just the cutest thing in the world! I love the Minerva Sewing kits because they have everything you need for each option. When I started sewing the dress, I initially planned on using the provided buttons, but halfway through, I switched to the snaps and ties. If it weren’t for the Minerva kit, I’d have to stop and search through my stash for snap fasteners or even worse, have to leave my home to purchase some. Blecch! Who wants to do that?!
