How To Sew a 1950's Pullover Wrap Dress | Butterick 6212

Hello Darlings! It has felt like ages since I have done a sewing video, so I thought it was about time to do another one!! I make a gorgeous two tone 1950's style dress in olive green and white. It's a great versatile piece to have in your wardrobe as it isn't uncomfortably tight around the waist and is perfect for those days when you want to be comfy and eat as much food as your heart desires!! hehe
I also go over what I would change to the pattern next time I make this dress. The pattern did have some inconsistencies with the fit, so I wanted to let you all know incase you make the same dress, so you don't make the same mistakes I did!
I hope you enjoyed the video, thanks so much for watching!
See you next Sunday!
Lots of love,
Sage Xx
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Click the link below to check out my favourite vintage style lipstick collection from Besame Cosmetics. This is a paid link that helps to support the channel via commission. ❤️
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[@sophia__1509]

My great grandmother used to sew most of her dresses. My grandfather would watch her sew. She bought her sewing patterns from the drug store, my grandfather says she mostly bought McCall's patterns. My grandfather recalls her getting stabbed by the needle of the machine. (this was in the '50s and '60s)

[@tonyarolfe6107]

My grandma ( Gamma) sewed all our clothes there were 11 grand-girls we all got matching clothes boys all got matching PJs

[@MsWinterlife]

My grandma sewed extensively all her life, first due to sheer necessity when she was young, and later as a way to relieve boredom in her twilight years. Back in those days, my grandma did not have the opportunity to go into full time employment being a housewife and mother of three, so she took side orders from the local clothes factory to supplement the salary my granddad made as a carpenter. My dad being the eldest child had to chip in whenever he could, so he basically got a free apprenticeship from a young age, and even to this day he is really good with the sewing machine. My memories of grandma are full of moments with her pouring over patterns, marking lines, basting fabrics together, cutting and pinning, and of course operating the sewing machine. In fact, when I was very little I used to think that all women knew how to sew (my mom did a little bit of sewing but it was sufficient to confirm my theory as a toddler), and that when I grew up I would somehow come to understand this craft naturally. Well, as it happened, puberty hit but the sewing fairy didn’t show, and I must admit that I bought my husband a new shirt when he asked me to help with a loose button, just because I didn’t trust myself to do it right…

[@shelbymarie9408]

Such beautiful memories! My grandma was an amazing self taught seamstress and my grandpa would watch her sew as well 😊

[@ginger1549]

In 1991 I had a very very old Kenmore sewing machine and wanted to replace it with a Singer 20 stitch. My hubby decided to get me that for Christmas but when he went shopping they were not making that machine anymore & he told the lady - no my wife specifically wants a Singer 20 stitch. Lo and behold , she called him later & said they had your Singer at the thrift store at my church, so I bought it for you, come to the shop & get it. She only paid $15 for it so that is all she wanted for it . She told my husband it works ok but it is pretty clunky. He brought it home and took it apart, cleaned and oiled it and it has been working like a dream ever since. My favorite Christmas gift ever. And what a very sweet lady at the sewing machine store.

[@kaylamarie1796]

I work in a retirement home, and I have a resident who made ALL of her clothes, I mean full wardrobe! They are the most beautiful things I've ever seen, she did such a great job! Sadly, her eyesight isn't what it was, so she's hasn't made anything in a long while. Whenever something needs fixed I'm the first one to say "I WILL FIX IT!" 🥰

[@SageLilleyman]

Aww bless her!! I bet her wardrobe is amazing!! 💕😍

[@fawn1785]

Thrift stores are a great place to find a solid sewing machine. My heavy duty Singer sewing machine cost $18.00 and is the best sewing machine I've ever owned.

[@DeterminedDIYer]

Small tip for the audience if anyone wants to make it. Before you do the hem, let it hang for a couple days before you trim and hem it. it will sag in some places due to the bias. :) Bottom hem should always be the last thing you do in the construction.

[@Atlas_Quin]

Is there a way to hang it without a dress form? I don’t have one and they’re too expensive for me

[@RebelLeigh]

​@Skylar Derouen I made a dressform out of duct tape and spray foam. It's not pretty but it works and I spent about $100 to make it.

[@HGCUPCAKES]

@@Atlas_Quin I just hang it on a coat hanger lol

[@heathersarbo271]

As a seamstress, I believe you will do better with your patterns if you iron your fabric in half along with the adjusted pattern pieces! I would definitely shorten the length of pattern before you cut it out! Also patterns are NEVER correct for a person! Ugh 😑 so a mock up on the top will definitely help with final adjustments before cutting your material. I hope I’ve helped as I know how valuable your time is! I love making vintage clothes and absolutely LOVE your videos! Please don’t ever stop!

[@angieb2472]

I’m going to start doing mock ups. I learned the hard way yesterday by running out of fabric. I had to run to the fabric store this morning. 😂 Even tho it’s adds more steps I believe it saves time in the long run, especially for a newbie like me.

[@lyzipoplovesyou]

Legitimately the cutest channel on KZbin!

[@mea7262]

I don’t know how to sew, but watching videos by her always brighten up my day! ❤️

[@RedRoseSeptember22]

It's never too early or late to learn :) perhaps find some sewing classes in your area if it's something you're interested in.

[@cybersee9966]

When I was 10, my mother got patterns and fabric for ice skating outfits for my sisters and me. It was our sewing lesson. We went to the fabric store with her and chose the fabrics/colors that we wanted. Also, I’ve always made curtains without a pattern.

[@luisavega8128]

Yes ...😊👍

[@kaylalee7861]

I love the color combination. The green is so lovely and the white brightens it up. It’s perfect for both spring and fall. So so lovely. 💕

[@julithewizards1358]

I guess you can call it sage green. 😄

[@kaylalee7861]

@@julithewizards1358 I see what you did there 😆

[@brettmcgaven3005]

Goodness this woman and this channel make me happy even though nothing of it is of any direct or obvious interest to me. It just makes me happy that women like this exist yet - I know that is probably sexist or sentimental or nostalgic. If nostalgia for a time you never experienced is actually that or something else. I think there is an argument to be made that the WW2 generation was a highwater mark in recent western civilisation and there has been a falling off since then. Our great grandfathers would likely not make much of us in the main, except possibly our technological innovation.

[@JuliasHairJourney]

There is nothing sexist about what you said. Being self-sufficient and making your own clothes is actually quite independent. She can make pretty much any outfit she wants if time permits. People think they are so independent these days, but they do not consider how much we rely on stores for every last thing. My grandparents had to make all their own clothes and even grow and raise some of their own food. My mom did to some extent as well, but my dad grew up in sheltered 1950s suburbia, but his mom still made amazing dresses for my aunts.

[@swanniexd7860]

It’s always so enjoyable watching someone do something they’re good at and are passionate about!

[@riggs20]

Perhaps that’s why they’re called The Greatest Generation. ❤️

[@christy9766]

Your not sexist...youre a normal human being.❤️🙂

[@AlbertaRose94]

Given that The Feminine Mystique was written by someone from The Great Generation at a time when the Baby Boomers were turning 18, I fail to understand why they are receiving praise.

[@katereid4167]

Love the dress! Other tips for if/when you make it again - I think you'll find that the pattern is too long-waisted for you, it looks like the waist of the dress is hitting a couple of inches too low. This could be why the bottom set of buttons isn't working as well as it does in the pattern pic, and it would also be contributing to the problems you're having with the bust area fit. Also, for a better-fitting bodice, pick the size that fits you based on your overbust measurement, then let out/take in at the waist and bust as required. I'm short-waisted, and have a small overbust/shoulder measurement compared to my full bust & waist size, so I have to do a Full Bust Adjustment and let out the waist darts on pretty much every single pattern I make. If I make a pattern straight from the packet and choose a size based on my waist size, I have very similar fit issues to what you are talking about.

[@chrish2277]

Excellent advice, thanks for sharing

[@djjohnston8759]

Sage, your channel makes me feel happy . You are so upbeat and cheerful! Your videos are fun and informative. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us!

[@SageLilleyman]

Thank you so much!! 😊

[@madelineshepherd]

Using pinking shears to cut out is generally considered a no-no. Invest in a good pair of bent handled dressmaker's shears. No need to worry about using an overlocker! The first domestic overlocker didn't come out until 1967. Even then, overlockers were not common with home dressmaking until the 1980s. A home dressmaker in the 1950s desiring an "overlock" finish would use some sort of machine zigzag stitch, either using a zigzag capable sewing machine or a zigzagger attachment on a straight stitch only model. You can find a whole range of amazing vintage sewing books for free at Open Library. I highly recommend having a look! Happy sewing!

[@OasisAcres42]

I just got to sew today! I haven't had time to the last month or two and getting to watch this while working was so pleasant 😌

[@kittyfarkas]

Beautiful garments. Ambitious seamstress. I couldn't do this project.

[@eurekahavok]

I’ve been meaning to try this pattern so it’s great to hear your feedback on how it fits!

[@purplemagicquilting]

Adorable. I used to sew garments. Now I sew quilts. I know you like op shops. Me too. And Market place on Facebook. Anyways I'm very surprised you don't have a vintage singer sewing machine. Either a feather weight that's a 221, or a 201 or 15,99, or 66 all good machines with the 201, and 221 being the best. If you can find a vintage machine with the box of attachments, feet. You would enjoy using it. The feet have rolled hem etc. Takes a bit to learn, you tube helps but could sew the whole bottom of your dress with a rolled hem. I've seen machines in the states less then 20$, and all the way up to several hundred. I have big fancy machines, the one I use the most is vintage singer 201 or 221. Straight stitch machines, beautiful stiches and great for silk or curtains, or anything in between. Keep up the good videos.

[@janeburkhart4051]

What a lovely and unique dress! You're such a talented seamstress. Makes me wish I had continue to sew. You're right - it's heaps of fun!

[@SageLilleyman]

Thank you so much! It is heaps of fun! 😊

[@flutterby345]

That dress is awesome - I might hve to try it myself! With your fit, as I think you mentioned you are about 5"1 you would need to make sure that the bottom seam of the waist band is actually on you waist as most patterns are designed for the 'average 'height of about 5"5. You would need to take out the excess fabric from just above the waist, probably out of both the waist band and the top itself so it looks right lengthwise. Then youd need to adjust to fit your bust - its a big job fitting clothes properly. Im short like you, aswell as short waisted so everything needs adjusting when i make things!

[@jacquelineganske7809]

What a talented young woman!

[@debrakimdk6143]

Patterns back in the day were sometimes crazy!!! Make a lot of adjustments and fine tuning🤪lol lol. I make a lot of actual vintage patterns and it is so crazy ADJUSTMENTS AND FINE TUNING🤪you did a assume job and the colors are so attractive SHARP LOOKING 👗 dress!! Love the details. Gorgeous on you Sage. NOW I am going to make it❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🏡👯

[@lindasmith6654]

You did a very good job. I think when you make the adjustments you will get a lot of wear out of it. I agree with the buttons....don't need the 3rd one.

[@jessicarobinson9248]

I love the color you chose for yourself! I think it would look even better if you tailored it more to your body measurements and wore a slip. Thanks for the video! ❤

[@margueriteboatwright706]

Thank you so much for using this pattern! I've been holding onto mine for so long, but been too nervous even though I'm an experienced sewer. It so good to see someone work through it! I now have confidence to work through it myself.

[@mastersadvocate]

I really like that dress, Sage! I was confused as to why the back of the dress was white, while the front was green. It just looked wrong, somehow. It looks great from the front, and I can see what you mean by the bodice being too big on you. I'm sure that you can fix that. You are so clever! Thank you for sharing your sewing project!! Stay safe! ~Janet in Canada

[@blondiefraser8969]

You are a ball of sunshine ❤

[@SageLilleyman]

Aww!! Thank you 🥰

[@connieliscio5593]

You make kt look so easy. The dress is beautiful and looks great on you. Thank you for showing us how to make classy clothes!

[@malamaurer4043]

Thank you for sharing you with with the rest of us Sage. Your videos seriously make my whole weekend. ❤️🌹❤️

[@TC-yc6dm]

Thank you for sharing! :) I miss sewing

[@sherylcure1290]

You are beyond talented girl. I hope James appreciates what a true treasure you are!

[@debifisher2101]

You have such talent Sage. Ty for bringing back memories from yesteryear. You are so adorable. Ty again

[@robinmcbride1501]

Great dress pattern from front view. Fabulous neckline and waistband! I agree that it needs to fit more snug. Can do! I want to make it switching from a wrap dress to a side zip, an easy fix. Please show us your slip. Would look great with a crinoline half slip and camisole or a full slip crin. Ive got one that is soft and not scratchy that will work perfectly. We have a vintage clothing store nearby where I do alterations, Puttin On The Ritz Vintage Winston-Salem NC USA. I adore your videos!

[@alyssabiffin5489]

Just a little tip, I learnt it from my mum (38) who was a dress maker when she was a teenager. Fold the material over, like you would a blanket or a towel. Saves more material, and so you don't have to cut out the pattern again. It will be the exact same. I wasn't sure if you did fold it over. I don't mean any disrespect or to sound rude.

[@davidhutchison3343]

Using pinking scissors to finish your seam edges is just so 1950's. Even some commercially made dresses of this period had pinked seams

[@SageLilleyman]

Yes I know, how great is it?! 😊

[@tonyarolfe6107]

Beautiful dress I can't wait for Fall season completely set in so I can start sewing we still finishing up few summer projects then I can start sewing it's fall and winter thing here like my ancestors all did during fall and winter months since it rains here most those two season not much to do outside

[@tud_cruzz477]

It's so relaxing to watch these type of videos, but when you actually think how difficult it is to sew, it blows your mind! And the final product looks stunning! It's a really unique passion and I enjoy watching these kind of videos from your channel! And also, good luck with all your assignments at the University!

[@SageLilleyman]

Thank you so much for your support!! 😊💫

[@moniquem783]

I learnt to sew on my mum’s sewing machine. It was about the same colour as yours. I don’t remember if it was a Singer, but I do remember it was crazy heavy!

[@beckybanta126]

Super pattern to spot light the 1950's. Great job! The gloves is a definite must.....so happy😊you wear them!💖

[@dawncurry5597]

What an adorable ironing room you have ❤️ love your videos!!!! All of them! Beautiful and professional work

[@ddg410]

You are such a darling young lady! I can't tell you how happy your videos make me.

[@justlikehoney1859]

Yay! So excited!

[@annb2308]

You are such an amazing dress maker! I love when you post a new video because they are so uplifting and are full of positive vibes! 💕

[@maryackley153]

I remember my mother wearing dresses like that I like the dress.

[@johnnylnowlin]

I'm a guy, genuinely intrigued by your video's. You truly epitomize the cultural differences in era's. I know nothing about sewing, and could only attempt to imagine the patience and accuracy needed to produce quality work.... I am amazed. However, I will say - your sewing machine is beautiful.... and in fact, makes me want to fill a bowl with sherbet ice cream! Nice video!

[@olgat2231]

Hi Sage! Oooh, You are so huge inspiration, and so talented girl ❣ That dress is just lovely! I wish I could do that... Thank You Sweetie! Lots of love 💝

[@jazzgibbo6715]

Thank you for this pattern, I’m going to look for it now. I have a walk-away dress pattern that I want to try which is similar, but I love the elastic front and button back style. Thank you so much for sharing x

[@lizzieb6311]

Very elegant and lovely ☺️ I truly enjoy watching your videos. They bring back fond memories of growing up ♥️

[@candiceyoung8244]

Hi sage. I love that dress. Its really lovely. The style suits you so good as well. It's great to see the art of sewing is being carried on through to the younger generation. My grandmother taught me to sew,on the machine as well as by hand. She taught me to crochet, quilting, and my favorite, embroidery. It's such a lovely art from. Hi to the chickens, they look really happy. Thank you so much for the video sweetie 😘👗🐓🐓💞

[@fionasharp595]

Great episode, thank you. I love that you showed us the fact that it didn’t turn out perfectly. And didn’t just rectify it. 😀

[@sarahaljabban8305]

Oh yay! I've been waiting for this! ❤️❤️❤️ Oh, also your hair looks really pretty! And I like your face in the introduction lol 🌷🥰

[@SageLilleyman]

Hehe thank you!! 🥰💕

[@kckazcoll1]

I have that pattern, great to see you sew it! Mabel showing her disdain at the end LOL :D

[@navyandlime]

Omg!!! 😱 Your sewing machine. It's beautiful!!!!

[@BeverleyButterfly]

Thank you for all the tips and tricks I’m still learning, this made such a nice dress xx

[@floweryvegas1635]

Such a cute look! You make me want to learn how to sew. If I were to make such a dress for myself, I think I’d add a bow to the back where the gab is. Love the headband with it!

[@tinaturner_art_poetry]

Such a pretty dress 💚

[@stephaniealaia769]

Love how you did your dress! Super pretty and looks comfy too! And agree with you on the sunset 🌅 I am a sucker for them for that time of the evening 😍 and that’s so cool that Ethel from I love Lucy wore those patterns love I love Lucy lol

[@OasisAcres42]

Thank you!

[@dianacooper-havlik9085]

So very lovely!💕

[@LadyJaneBooks]

I loved this! I actually got into sewing to make my own vintage inspired dresses. Still a beginner but this project made me so excited! It looks beautiful! Great job, Sage! 💙

[@nancyboruta7060]

You look so lovely regardless. Movie star glamour for sure.

[@angelalong6740]

You're very talented. I love what you created ❤

[@roxiegalaviz5545]

just gorgeous!! 💚👗

[@pamfrank3962]

It looks beautiful 😍

[@amber7253]

Something that I have slowly wanting to do .. make my own cloths .. thank you..

[@tatianadutra7014]

I love your sewing videos!!🥰

[@MissusRyan]

It looks so nice! Well done. 😊 I bought a vintage 1940s skirt and blouse pattern that I can’t wait to try and make!

[@zynpgzme]

Your hair color is so good. I love your dress.

[@angelpurcell3156]

Your sewing techniques are amazing! The dress is really cute on you hun. I tired to learn sewing least just say its not strong technique of mine 😂 i am 54 yrs old so i ask my daughter in law to do any sewing i need done You have great videos 💗💗💗

[@lauraoergel6003]

I absolutely adore all of your videos and this dress is just a dream!!!! You do SUCH a great job!!! This looks like quality store bought!! If you want extra special finishing tricks, Evelyn wood at vintage sewing school (&here on youtube) has lots of videos on the little tricks that are missing from vintage patterns because they expect you to know them, and shes helped me make garments that look almost professional.

[@Dishcreator84]

Very pretty Sage! I love your sewing videos, I been sewing for 3 years & and love it, I also made Gertie’s vintage wrap dresses ( the swirl dress) from her book Gertie sews jiffy dresses.

[@maguydaoud8989]

You are so nice girl indeed. I know it is a very difficult to sew a vintage dress but you are very brave to try. I was having a skirt like the dress you made but unfortunately my mom threw it and I was always asking her where it is because I really love this style so much. I would like to be brave like you and see my own clothes but unfortunately I am not talented haha.

[@PuzzlePinkdolltuber]

Love your unique content!

[@CarePinglo]

Ah I hope one day I can get good enough at sewing that I can make a dress for myself !! The dress turned out beautiful !!!!

[@SageLilleyman]

Thank you so much Carolina!! I know you will be an amazing sewer if you keep at it! I loved your recent sewing video!! Xx

[@kristenschnese698]

Lol beeps of fun and sometimes frustrating like when the tensions goes hey wire ..

[@1jmass]

I think you look adorable in this dress. The style definitely suits you. I think I would be a bit self conscious about the gap under the arms. I wonder if there is a way to maybe make the part of the front that wraps over a bit higher. I am sure that would lead to having to make additional alterations, but if it results in a better fitting dress, it would be worth the time and effort.

[@thepottereden]

I just love the music you use!!!!!! Would you ever consider putting the music in the description?

[@UrbanHomesteadMomma]

Wow talent!

[@6thgraderfriends]

Cutting out the fabric is also my least favorite part of sewing. It just feels like so much can go wrong.

[@julithewizards1358]

You explain things really well. 👍 I could imagine to create the dress on my own following your video! If I do so in future I will let you know. 😘

[@Vixenventures]

This is one of the dresses from your last video that I really wanted to try and make, the black and pink one. Thank you so much for sharing the pattern and so many tips!

[@kimberlysneden4924]

Great job! I love your videos

[@Miss_Annlaug]

Very cool dress❤

[@vintagedoll4850]

Your expressions at the end outtakes always remind me of Darla on Little Rascals. So adorable! The sunset was spectacular!

[@celery9809]

i love it i think you could make another video with your alterations to fit up the bodice and move the back button 💛

[@tamihappy4115]

Beautiful ☺️🙌🙌

[@yougotmeinstitches1847]

Haya. Loving your dress :) the details & contrast fabrix are great, I think I have this pattern in my collection, I know I have the walk away dress :) Loving the chooks, I hope to get some 1 day :) Thanku 'sew' much for sharing. Ana. X

[@Naturallyro_]

Would love to learn to sew, your awesome!!! Very talented!!!

[@adhdbookworm]

6:29...that's so funny! Great job and video.

[@shigaho1415]

I do admire you,and love your skirt soooooo much.

[@gohawks3571]

This is cute 😍

[@sherrymackinnon1293]

Lovely...I had never seen one.

[@ChristiesYorkies911]

Wow amazing 🤩 I’d never be able to be that talented hun. You did a great job. I’d love to see more videos like this if you get a chance of course. I know many of us feel the same way. 🌹

[@angelasimons3473]

I like the green and white combination, very cute! I'm not an expert, but a couple tips I've heard might be helpful. First, they say to use upper bust measurement to chose pattern size, rather than full bust. That will give a better fit through the collarbone and shoulders, which are harder to adjust. It will probably be necessary to add/remove from the bust and waist area, but this is much easier to fit. Second, that reprinted vintage patterns are not actually an exact reprint: they redesign for the modern figure but still use the original drawings. I think the "Walkaway Dress" was notorious for this, they changed the whole shape of the bodice which was quite frustrating for people trying to understand why the look was so different.

[@kimberarchuleta1689]

Wow, you did a great job! Hugs from Montana

[@SageLilleyman]

Thank you so much! 💕

[@juliesmith7669]

It's beautiful

[@janineskriboleit1063]

Lovely

[@KnitLoveHK]

Great tutorial Like it Thanks for your sharing

[@Emmy_B7278]

🤯 wish I had that talent

[@ItCameFromAVlog]

So cute

[@Cutelovelyyy]

Hello My Sticker line is 1950s. I just founded you YT today🙂☺️💃🏻🍿🌷 I come from Thailand. Your YT is so nice.