FOUNDATIONS REVEALED COMPETITION ENTRY
The Malachite
(click images to to enlarge)
Outline the story …
I have always loved the Edwardian style and have long dreamed of making a garment inspired by this era. All my life I have been captivated by embroidery and knew that one day I would turn my hand to it. Foundations Revealed has opened the door and inspired me to finally take my first steps on this adventure...
I am fascinated by the magical greens of the Malachite Sunbird. I could see in my minds eye their vivid colour and elegant shapes singing out on dark background.
For me this project is about learning new skills and bringing beauty from the natural world into a unique creation that expresses my vision through mediums I have for so long admired.
Outline the construction…
I used Simplicity pattern 9716 because I felt that this would be enough to create the basic shape of the Edwardian style that I wanted - even if not exactly historically accurate.
The lower part of the dress is a navy polyester duchess satin. I used quite a soft but heavy woven interfacing which I felt had a good drape for the skirt. Unfortunately this interfacing was not quite robust enough for the embroidery. To compensate for this I added a stiffer interfacing for the embroidered areas. I died the interfacing which was originally cream to be more in-keeping with the outer fabrics.
The upper part of the dress is a dark green shot silk which I have had stashed for many years for a ‘special project’ so I thought the time had come! This is lined with a navy polyester satin.
The yoke and collar are a navy chiffon and were particularly challenging for me as I have never sewn with this type of fabric. I added lace to the zip which helped to create a neater finish.
I used a combination of machine and hand sewing for the garment itself. The embroidery is all hand sewn.
I really love this! Hope to see it in the FB group when you’ve finished all the embroidery. It does take forever, doesn’t it?
That is very kind Dawn-Marie. It certainly takes forever the way I do it! I am so encouraged by your comment, thank you 🙂
Wow! I love the embroidery on this! Lovely construction!!
Thank you, I really appreciate that – especially as I was so close to not submitting my entry.
Beautiful colors, beautiful embroidery
Thank you for that encouraging comment Sofia 🙂