Daffodil Sew Along: Day 3

Who’s ready for some flutters!?  If you’ve chosen not to add flutters to your Daffodil, you get the day off today!  Tomorrow we will finish traditional construction of the Daffodil Pattern.

Let’s start by cutting out the flutter pieces.  We need to make two simple modifications.  First, the flutter needs to be ½” wider to make it just about ¼” wider than the finished cap of the Daffodil Pattern.  Second, the flutter needs to be a little longer.  So, if you are making lace flutters, simply use the hemmed fabric cutting line instead of lace cutting line.  I you are using fabric for the flutters, extend the width ½”.  Then when cutting move the flutter pattern away from the folded edge to lengthen the flutter.  For sizes 12-18 month through size 3 place the pattern 2” from the folded edge. For sizes 4 and up place it 3” from the folded edge. Cut out two flutters.  I don’t recommend lined flutters in this application as it will be stiffer than desired.

In order to add flutters over the shoulder seam of Daffodil, we must rearrange the sewing steps just a bit.  First, sew the shoulder seams of the sides together and of the front and back together.  This will result in four short seams instead of two long ones.  Finish these seams.

Now, we will prepare and attach the flutter.  Hem and sew gathering threads  as directed in the Universal Flutter pattern.   Lace flutters are of course not hemmed.  

Match the center of the flutter to the shoulder seam of the side piece with the wrong side of the flutter to the right side off the side fabric.  Match the ends to the double notches. Gather and sew in place. Repeat for the other side.

If you choose to add pockets to the front seams, now is the time to add them. Refer to yesterdays's Sew Along post for specific instructions. I prefer them placed in the side seams as there is more room for hands and treasures. If you add them to the front seam the pockets will overlap as shown below.

Next, place one side piece right side together with the front/back piece.  Match shoulder seams and notches on front and back. Sew from the bottom up, over the shoulder and down to the bottom on the other side.  If you have added pockets, you will sew around the pockets during this step. Repeat for the other side.  Press the seams towards the center.

Finally, finish the armholes by sewing the bias tape down as directed in the second half of step 6 on page 7 of the Daffodil Pattern. This is likely the most difficult step of sewing a Daffodil Top or Dress. Take time and use lots of pins, I promise is works out just fine! I begin by pinning both side and shoulder seams down. Then place pins about every 1/2" along the underarm curve. When sewing use a slightly longer than normal stitch length. While navigating the underarm curve take time to raise the presser foot and smooth the fabric as you go.

Tomorrow you get the day off (unless you're making two Daffodils and I now many of you are)!  Right here we will walk through traditional constructions as well as talk about additional ways to embellish the front seams. Be sure to come back Friday for the finishing steps.  I can’t wait to see what you have made!

Sew Along Links:
Day 1: Preparing the pattern
Day 2: Cutting and begin sewing