HandCraftedClothing_4

Today we announced the addition of Performance Knit to the Spoonflower family. I (Allie) used Wiksten’s tank pattern to sew up a simple dress using our new knit to get my feet wet working with our new apparel fabric! (Note: While this sewing pattern is no longer available for purchase this post shows you how to prep a PDF pattern for sewing and shares some sewing tips!)


Finished  Wiksten Dress using Performance Knit
Sewing on performance knit was initially a little intimidating. Not having much experience with knits combined with the drape and slippery-ness of the fabric made me a little scared! I decided to go with a super simple pattern from Wiksten that sews up in a snap to make a versatile dress or tank using one of my own fabric designs! With an upcoming beach trip, I knew this would make a great cover-up that easily transitions in to a cute outfit for lunch or a casual dinner and drinks!

Wiskten Tank
To purchase the pattern you can choose from a paper copy or a downloadable PDF version. Since I am incredibly impatient, I chose to download the PDF and tape the pieces together. 

Taping pattern together

While laying the pattern pieces in place, I used washi tape (because it’s so pretty!) to tape the papers together. 

Cutting out pattern

Once taped together, I used a rotary blade to cut out each piece. 

Pattern pieces

Ta-da! Lovely pattern pieces.

Cutting fabric

Pattern pieces

Using a rotary blade (or scissors– whichever is handy) I cut out my pattern pieces and prepared myself to sew! 

Pinning garment

Sewing the Wiksten tank pattern is super simple! I started with the side seams, sewed together the shoulders, added binding around the neckline and arm holes and hemmed. Using a ballpoint needle made working with the performance knit easier, and it turns out I was nervous for no reason! 

Sewing garment

The finished dress was perfect for a getaway weekend to the beach at Charleston! 

Finished Wiksten Dress

Finished Garment