How to SEW a DRESS (mennonite style)

From start to finish, I take you with me as a sew a dress. From cutting out to the finished product. I hope this helps!
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#sewadress #howto #mennonite

[@cindysmith3720]

Look at the smile on that kid...my heart melted!! What a doll!!

[@pambackus3490]

Janine, I have been sewing for at least 65 years! I have se wn everything from corsets to wedding dresses! I have never made anything without having to rip something out So don't give up and enjoy yourself!

[@theMennoniteMom]

aww, thank you! You have been sewing many years! Glad you enjoy it!

[@rbrown6476]

Amen to that. Me too xxx

[@Floweroftheprairie2720]

That makes me feel so much better!

[@shmataboro8634]

my seam ripper is my true and loyal friend 💓

[@carolyn_r]

yup, me too! It just happens. Also, with stretchy knit fabrics, you need to allow the seam to stretch with the fabric. You can use either a short zig/zag stitch or a stretch stitch on your sewing machine OR just serge your seam. Serging will allow the fabric to stretch when worn plus finishes the seams all in one. I hope that makes sense! You are doing great for self taught! The dresses you are wearing are great.

[@patricialee1477]

Hi, The older I get (I'm 82) the more I realized that 'ripping' is really a part of sewing. It is also how we learn certain important things. Besides, it develops patience. .. You seem to be doing a great job because you follow through and never give up! It's the same with canning. when my jam comes out too thin, I just call it syrup. Love your channel.

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm super honored to have you here! You have seen much in your life and thank you for the advice! So true, and I need ever so much more patience! My biggest weakness! God bless!

[@mamamode1312]

@@theMennoniteMom oh she's so right still it frustrates me but at least I'm working a different set of muscles when I do it. Go easy on yourself. You are such a dear.

[@lisaann4174]

Haha! "Two thousand years later," and yet she persisted. That dress is darling! : ) ☮️

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much, lol

[@lions1310]

The time stamp cards in this video are literally my life when I'm sewing. 4 million years later 😂

[@theMennoniteMom]

LOL, totally!

[@susandenney5697]

Just a hint....Put the zipper in before you sew the side seams together. You're doing a good job for being self-taught.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for the tip!

[@kayecpalacios]

Yes and also move your notch for shoulder seam up some. Or do not worry about that notch at all. Your serger will make it fit just right. No need for pinning points . Also notice your body form. You are a little more forward shouldered (curved forward) so that means you need your back across shoulders a little bigger. If you lay your front pattern and back pattern on top of each other your back should be bigger on that sleeve curved cut than your front. (That’s probably why your fit feels a little wonky in the wrong places.). You do great for homemade pattern and self taught! 😍😍 always put your sleeve on bed of serger (the extra feed dogs will set your sleeve in without pinning). I always tell people. Outie curves on bottom and inner curves on top! 🤣🤣outies down. Innies up. 🤷🏼‍♀️ just tighten tension on the needle threads on serger and gather. No need to do all those steps on the sewing machine. Or just tighten your sewing machine tension to 7-8 and baste a long stitch and it auto gathers for you no need to pull it. 😍😍

[@melissastevens3264]

Your sad music during ripping cracked me up. 😂 That’s usually where I stop for a few days. 😁

[@theMennoniteMom]

LOL, glad you caught that. Ha, yes, I get so tired of ripping!

[@mravenwing]

Hi! I think you have good instincts for someone who is "not" a seamstress. I am retired from being a seamstress and most all of us are self taught. I do have a couple of tips though. Open and then press the zipper flat before you begin sewing it in. Where you had trouble matching your pleats, remember that the machine will slightly gather the fabric on the bottom while it's easy to stretch the top too much. Maybe it will help you to use that to your advantage by turning it over. You are completely right to make clips in seam allowance to get it to curve nicer around neckline. Good video and nice dress!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks, Vickey for the encouragement and tips! I've been getting a lot of great tips! Thanks for taking the time! Have a lovely day!

[@rbrown6476]

Yes, you’re so right! Everything I was going to say. And I loved watching - even if someone’s not a professional sewer, they can still make beautiful clothes and be proud of them. We all cook even though we’re not professional chefs, and we all get nourished. So I say, have a go and enjoy xxx

[@mamahallmark]

The struggle is so real. I’m dyslexic and decided to take up sewing. I sew just like you! Nice to know I’m not the only one best friends with her seam ripper lol thanks for sharing.

[@theMennoniteMom]

that would be a challenge! lol, I can't sew without a ripper!

[@krystleroy3068]

I’m dyslexic too and add and it helps me get through the day and trying to put the pieces to gather can be so hard because I my mind can’t understand when it comes together im like ahhh that’s how it works 😂

[@vintagebaby54]

Believe it or not you are a seamstress and a good one! I enjoy your videos very much.

[@theMennoniteMom]

well thanks... I don't feel like one. Don't know what half the terms are called and don't enjoy it much! LOL

[@melissatamer9193]

Girl, I was laughing all through this. But, WOW!! IT TURNED OUT AWESOME!! AND YES, A haircut just makes them look older. Boohoo. He is just sooooo Adorably Cute!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

well thanks so much! (: cheers!

[@ozigalqld5511]

Loved your delightful commentary and jokes! Sweet young lady, thank you for sharing your knowledge. Blessings.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! glad you enjoyed!

[@DianeBianchi_MnWx]

I love the fabric of the dress you were wearing while sewing. It's so cute! Loved your video. I've been sewing my whole life, I'm 62, and yes, I still rip, rip, rip! You're doing great by figuring out things on your own.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! (: well doesn't look too hopeful for me then, lol!

[@lindaschneidewind8164]

Great job. Zander is just precious.

[@pinkkr1983]

We sew like you! So your not alone. I love the Cape style and the modestly factor. We are modest in our family too. We just make stuff work here.

[@theMennoniteMom]

that's great! (: there's no one way to be modest (:

[@pinkkr1983]

Oh I know a bunch of people must have told you... but there is a knit presser foot for our machine.... maybe that would make it a little easier to work with knits. Although I dislike them for the same issues you were having.

[@theMennoniteMom]

@@pinkkr1983 thanks! Yes, they've been telling me, but thanks!

[@dudanunesbleff]

I respect you a lot, because it's noticeable that you hate to sew, yet you do it anyway.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks!

[@pjl2963]

First of all, beautiful photos of Xander and the puppies! So professional! And secondly, I just wanted to tell you that I could totally relate to all the little set backs, and seam ripping! It always seemed to me that the mistakes would happen on the last home stretch; when you're tired and looking forward to being done (and getting that coffee!) You sell yourself short...you did a fantastic job, and the results were so worth it! I'm so happy that you've mastered the problem you had with your sleeves! And of course, you kept us entertained the whole process, by inserting those silly messages, like, "An eternity later..." I almost choked on my coffee, I laughed so hard! Another great, enjoyable video, Jeannine! Well done

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for the feedback! Glad you enjoyed it, it was one of my least favorite videos to do. (: two plus hours of sewing and a lot of videos to go through, so glad you liked all the little spongebob inserts. I don't watch spongebob, but have seen others put these sayings in their videos and it always cracked me up too! Thanks and have a good day!

[@Hanna.W]

Your music choice and jokes are on point! Have a wonderful day! I also think you did a great job with your dress, you helped me understand darts a little better and its appreciated! P.s. that dress looks amazing on you!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed!

[@suzyyates8029]

I agree!!

[@joannanolt6250]

This made my morning! As a Mennonite that (gasp), hates trying to sew her cape dresses, I could so relate to this!

[@barbarabell3366]

First time to watch you, knit fabric is so difficult to work with. My heart went out to you, the end result looked good. Your little boy is precious. God bless.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you so much! yes, it wasn't fun! Thanks for watching!

[@a.w.9662]

You are one brave seamstress, going at it without pins! I pin everything and when I learned to sew (many decades ago) we were taught to baste everything first. I sewed our daughter’s wedding dress, a slippery satin and I was praying as I sewed in that zipper! I was thinking at that point that as she is our only daughter I would thankfully never have to sew another wedding dress! 😁

[@zaharagavriel3890]

I love how you leave all the mistakes in! Showing real life. I think you are imperfectly perfect! We all are. God makes us all so individual. I love watching your videos. God bless you and your family sister.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you so much, I appreciate your encouragement! God bless!

[@euniceraquelreis6050]

I think you are a very brave person, when something goes wrong when I'm sewing I'll leave it for the next day at least...

[@theMennoniteMom]

lol, yes, but I have OCD which won't let me do that... sometimes I wish I could!

[@janburgess9830]

I did enjoy you n ur video. Im a new person to sewing. I havnt sewn since 13yrs. Im now 55. Luv luv luv. GOD BLESS

[@theMennoniteMom]

well thank you! best of wishes if you decide to take it up again!

[@leeannjurczyszyn788]

it okay that it takes about 2 hours to sew... i alter a lot of thrifted items and hand-me downs from my older sister and it takes me about that time to sew it alone and then attach little embellishments... this video helped me with the concept of constructing basic dresses to make during quarantine as i have limited fabric. although i am not Amish or Mennonite i enjoy learning about other cultures and your videos are fun to watch :)

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm glad you enjoyed! It's great that you enjoy sewing! Wish I did, more!

[@Oldebookworm]

There are ways to make it easier for you to sew. zipper manufacturers make a special foot to assist in the installation of a hidden zipper. It does the hard work of keeping the teeth out of the way so you can sew close. Most fabric stores carry them. If I lived closer I would be so glad to show you some easy tricks for sewing. You have done an excellent job of teaching yourself. Bravo!!!!!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for that! Yes, I should look into an actual zipper foot! it would help a lot! thanks for the tip! Would be nice if you lived close (:

[@TheCrippledCrafter]

Just an FYI my lovely. The foot you're using in this video IS a zipper foot x

[@theMennoniteMom]

@@TheCrippledCrafter 😍 thank you! I wasnt sure!

[@messianichebrewshawnkawcak1550]

In making my tunics I just cut them out of one piece, didn’t cut Gussets to allow my arms to come up more and had to add them later. I added pockets from old jean shorts. I prefer my tunic over jeans any day. I just cut a taper from sleeve to the bottom. I have ridden my bicycle in my tunic. Nice editing job. This shows your sense of humor and personality. It’s awesome that you make your own clothes, and that you wear dresses as a lifestyle. Ladies like you are an encouragement to me because you live the lifestyle willingly.

[@JanetClass65]

You have the CUTEST son on the planet!! I'm a new subscriber. Love your videos. I was raised on a farm and it is wonderful letting us see in your life. God bless⚘

[@emily-sharingChrist]

She really does! He's just adorable! ❤❤ Love from a new channel!! ❤

[@theMennoniteMom]

why thanks! I'm a bit partial to him myself! So honored to have you here!

[@theprofessor00]

You don't give yourself enough credit! I find you thoroughly delightful! I'm a Fundamental Baptist myself, and dress modestly.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! (: God bless!

[@annadueck5370]

Very well done, jokes and all just keep it up. I too learned when I was quite young. Love that little sweetie you have there, he is so adorable.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! yes, we love the little man! trying to cherish the little years.. .(:

[@michaeldougfir9807]

Well... I know some of the sewing was aggrivating. But you have performed a good service here. Since I am a man, and also do not sew, I have had trouble explaining the cape dress to my wife and sister. But you defined the cape dress, then proceeded to make one. So now you have provided a good video about the steps to make one. Thank you.

[@theMennoniteMom]

you're welcome!

[@songofml]

Most enjoyable sewing video I've ever seen! You are so funny! I'm not a Mennonite, but I might make this dress to wear to Mass. Keep the videos coming! Awesome job!

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm glad you enjoyed! thanks so much!

[@marilyncausey9348]

You really don't give yourself enough credit. That is not a simple pattern. Loved your whimsical music choices!

[@theMennoniteMom]

LOL, thank you! glad you enjoyed!

[@oldgloryfarm_]

That smile on your boy makes my day! 😁 Thanks for the little lesson. I've been afraid to sew with that kind of fabric. I think I'm gonna give it a shot.

[@theMennoniteMom]

good luck! hope it goes well for you!

[@dawn7612]

Knits are harder. Start with plain cotton.

[@saraloewen1908]

being Mennonite and completely familiar with sewing... I still enjoy watching the video as its so much different from my dress patterns :)

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm glad you enjoyed!

[@rachelmiller2340]

I enjoy watching how others sew. I can always find tips of doing things an easier way. The photo of 'muddy' Zander & the dogs is so super cute! 😍 Have a great day!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks, Rachel! Yeah, he had so much fun!

[@janetralph6851]

Well for someone who says she can’t sew or has never taken any lessons you did an amazing job you should be very proud of yourself

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you!

[@montraclements6988]

I think you did a great job on that sweet dress. It looks nice on you. Knit is more difficult to sew, glad you used your serger too. If you figured out how to sew on your own , I think that is great!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much! (:

[@shirleybewley6646]

Am loving watching you! I've taught adults and 3 different 4-H clubs. You are really doing fine

[@preckles]

Great tutorial! I love your sewing style❣️ I recently sewed a tote with a zipper. Wasn’t happy with how I sewed it in, so I ripped it. Proceeded to sew it in perfectly...but, upside down🙄😢😭 Third time was the charm. It hurts when you realize that you gave yourself all that extra work and frustration!

[@stephaniejackson5523]

Oh my goodness! Your family is so precious.

[@peshgirl]

Your editing skills are great! This is so fun to watch.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you!

[@samh.6272]

Even though this video was made a while ago, it is really nice to come across one with easy instructions . Thank you!

[@wtb61]

you can hand baste the zipper in first and then take out the basting stitches after the zipper is installed. Hand basting can be a new sewers best friend. Also, use pins and take your time. Take the pins out one at a time as you come to them. Keep at it. You are doing great with your sewing.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for the tips!

[@Cindy1956ful]

Yes, hand or machine baste the seam where the zipper goes first. Press it flat. Pin and sew the zipper. You can also baste the zipper in if you want to hold everything in place as you see. Knit fabric is a bear. You can iron fusible interfacing on the seams to hold them steady. You also need a knit fabric needle. 100% cotton or 100% polyester like Guttermans German thread is the vest to use. Do not use the cotton polyester blends like Coats and Clark. The thread breaks. It’s not your sewing, it’s the inferior thread. If you make tee shirts for your little boy, you can see easier and faster. The front sleeve piece is shorter than the back. Right sides together sew the right shoulder seam. Leave the left one open. Press. Stretch the knit neckline facing around your child’s head and add half an inch seam allowance. Do not use pattern piece, they are always too small. Put a pin in stretchy neckband at midpoint. Line it up with outside shoulder seam and pin. Pin the ends of the band to the ends of the front and back necklines. Sew band to shirt as one long continuous flat seam. Press neckband seam downward. Sew left shoulder seam and press. At the back of neckline between shoulder seams, in medium or long stitch, top stitch seam down. This makes professional look like store bought. Pin middle of sleeves to shoulder seam. Stitch. Gem edges of sleeves. Stitch shirt from the edge of the gemmed sleeve to bottom of shirt. Hen bottom of shirt. Easy peasy. My favorite was Quik Sew pattern books with master patterns. You trace off the size you need and it has sewing instructions. I pretty much taught myself to sew using these books.

[@kimberlyamaclaren9933]

You are doing a wonderful good job 🥰, loving this video ! Sleeves are not my favorite either . Thank you for posting!

[@nunnc84]

I’m starting to make cape dresses, I’m glad you offer a tutorial! I’m paid someone to show me. Now I’m going to attempt to make the dress myself. I was shown to use wax paper for the darts. I have a serger that’s never been out of the box. I’m fairly competent with the sewing machine now. I had to buy the right size pattern again. It’s going to be a learning curve. I have folks to help me learn .

[@robinhardin63]

You are absolutely delightful. Great job. You made me smile.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you!

[@MoonPhaze5]

You are my sewing TWIN!! 🤣 You had me laughing and feeling your pain! You were experiencing all the same things i do and i just couldnt help myself. 😜 I too am self taught. My mom did a lot of sewing before i came along, but she never gave me any tips. 🤔 i believe she was also self taught and didnt know how to explain. 😂 God bless your continued efforts! Thank you SO much for sharing, and happy sewing! 🩵💚🩵💚

[@deborahkelly1489]

Well, I think you are doing a great job sewing , keep it up . Pratice Makes Perfect.

[@crybebebunny]

I also self taught but, my mother did know how to sew. I have a hard time gathering for skirts and fancy sleeves so I also plet ( make folds).

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you!

[@Susan.I]

Xander looks great with his haircut!!

[@tammysarrazin7078]

i love your quirky attitude and joke lol

[@emmylou-y4b]

Your little boy is beyond adorable.

[@brendaw6319]

Knits: it's very important try not to stretch the fabric. Use a stabilizer, it helps it from stretching, neck, zipper, sleeves.

[@dawn7612]

Would you sew paper to the fabric to keep it from stretching? Them just pull of the paper afterwards?

[@a.w.9662]

Dawn M. I’ve never used paper, can’t help you there; I use a narrow seam binding, especially on the shoulder seams as they tend to stretch down and hang off my narrow shoulders otherwise.

[@katydid5088]

You can use paper for the sewing, so it doesn't get caught in your machine. (or you can try stretch thread and prayer if your machine is still eating fabric). As others mentioned, without stabilizers the necks will stretch and warp over time. It also helps the longevity of your clothes by adding stabilizer. Black and Sons sewing supply is a family business with a good number of iron on or sew in options for a good price. They also ship in the continental U.S.

[@katydid5088]

Also you can try lowering tension, so long as the stiches don't look wonky.

[@HannahMitchell-Art]

I watched this with my ten year old son and he loved the “one eternity later” etc interludes. Cracked him up completely

[@theMennoniteMom]

Lol. That cracks me up. A 10 year old watching this!

[@HannahMitchell-Art]

@@theMennoniteMom He likes sewing :) Your description of a relationship with God was very helpful to explain to my boy too!

[@mildredhare715]

this is the first video I watched. I see myself. You're doing a wonderful job. Keep it up!

[@theMennoniteMom]

welcome! Honored to have you here! thank you!

[@momgrandma5496]

Your little boy is adorable, I love your humor, going to categorize your videos under that adjective, when I’m having a bad day, will pop up and watch one of your vids.The green dress you are wearing is so pretty, as are you. As a self-taught sewist, you are doing great, knits are challenging.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for the encouragement and support! honored to have you here!

[@cindyrobbins2989]

I Loved this video. So Sweet & Funny! What an Awesome Boy. He is so Handsome. Learned a lot. The dress turned out great. BLESSINGS!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! glad you enjoyed! Cheers!

[@kathybeamer5477]

I'm so glad I'm a Baptist and can buy off the rack! I do some sewing but it's definitely not my favorite thing to do...ever! Your little boy is just adorable. His smile could light up a room. 😁

[@theMennoniteMom]

yes, that's a blessing! I don't care much for sewing! and thank you! we do love the little guy!

[@jocelynberthay1616]

Thanks for the video. You and your son are adorable!!

[@MyStitchyHome]

25:10 - Yes, you are correct. That is a zipper foot! How I sew a zipper into the back seam: * I use a basting (long) stitch (like you used to gather the sleeve), to sew the back seam together for the length of the zipper I have. Below this point, I sew the seam closed with a regular stitch. * I press this seam open. * I lay the zipped up zipper against this open seam, on the inside of the dress. I pin it in place, with the pins on the right side of the fabric. I can feel that I have the closed zipper teeth exactly under the seam line. * I place the wrong side of the zipper onto the bed of my machine and the right side (pretty side) of the fabric is facing up. * Starting at the neckline, I use a zipper foot and a regular stitch to top-stitch down one side of the zipper teeth to 1/8" or 1/4" below the end of the zipper. * I raise the pressure foot, pivot, lower the foot, and sew across the seam just below the end of the zipper teeth. * I raise the pressure foot, pivot, lower the foot, and sew back up the other side of the zipper. NOTE: I remove the pins BEFORE I sew over them, to avoid the needle hitting the pin and breaking or bending. * I backstitch at the neckline, on both sides. I also backstitch at the bottom of the zipper. to strengthen these areas. * I use a seam ripper to remove the basting stitch in the zipper seam, exposing the teeth. That is how I sew in a zipper. :) I enjoy your videos very much. You sure get a lot done! You go girl!! -- Becca Klash

[@judymeyers1224]

I do zippers the same way and that is how we were taught in sewing classes. I love sewing and made a three piece suit in high school (grade 12)

[@michelecraig9658]

"One eternity later" oh no! I can totally relate. I always catch the fabric. 2000 years later!! Tge captions made me laugh.

[@theMennoniteMom]

LOL, glad you enjoyed... it seemed like it was taking forever that day!

[@michelecraig9658]

@@theMennoniteMom I always sew with my seam ripper by my side. I just made the Cape dress and I cut it out one day and it did take an entire day (pretty much) to sew from start to finish. I think it is all those darts. I didn't have transfer paper and was just transferring them by hand....five hundred years later....

[@barbaraburdick9533]

I love the old Xander, I love the new Xander.He and the dogs were so cute in all the mud! My favorite "scene" with him is when he laughs. He lowers his eyes, and then he has a big laugh! He's such a happy little boy! Don't know anything about sergers. But I do know that you are one busy 🐝! 😄😄😄

[@justme-dee6888]

I love your new dress it looks beautiful on you you did a great job! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much!

[@reneeslarve4655]

Your son is adorable. Dress turned out beautifully. NICE WORK.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much!

[@kayking3488]

Great video, glad it showed up in my subjects. A+ great job!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much!

[@shannas7516]

You are so much fun to watch. We have the same haphazard ways to sewing. I both love and hate to sew. You crack me up. You're the kind of person everyone should sew and have coffee with. Thanks for sharing your video. And what a cute little boy. God bless.

[@stormybryant5841]

That dress looks amazing on you!!! The dress is perfect for summer

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much!

[@ImCarolB]

This reminds me so much of sewing with my mother-in-law many years ago! On another note, we were going to a non-mennonite church and they had a dinner where you were supposed to dress like your ancestors. I wore a black Old Mennonite dress and black bonnet, and I cut down an old suit jacket for my husband to make a jacket with no collar. I had several men come up and tell me how sophisticated I looked and how they wished all the women would dress like that! Sophisticated! Not something a Mennonite woman hears every day!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks for the smile! I'm sure taht was an interesting dinner!

[@vsgmom]

Aww, his haircut is so cute 😍 Also, my favorite breed of dogs, such adorable pictures 🐾🐾

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you! yes, I love corgis!

[@spazzmomma]

I have to be in the mood to sew. I did learn a few things from you. You sew faster than I do. I am a turtle when it comes to sewing cause I hate to rip seams.Everyone hates to rip seams I think. I love your sense of humor.You gave me reason to smile cause now I know I am not alone in my own sewing escapades. Thanks for the video.

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm glad you enjoyed! (: yes, I probably should slow down. (: good luck with your next creation!

[@ginjabea49]

Great video. A great inspiration! I like the cape for added modesty. Thanks for making/posting this, and for sharing the pics of Xander. BEAUTIFUL 👶 BOY!

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you and thanks for watching! We do love him! (:

[@ginjabea49]

@@theMennoniteMom How can I get the pattern for dress/cape? Tks

[@littlean24]

You are so fortunate to have such a big spacious house. Our house is sooooo tiny, I don’t even have room to sew anymore. It’s a beautiful 100+ year old house in the city but there is just no space between myself, husband, toddler and baby for sewing.

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm sorry! town houses usually are smaller. I am very blessed!

[@amystiles1642]

So I started sewing a couple years ago, with my mom’s help. I have been working my way towards completing a dress. I appreciate how you keep it real in your videos. Just wondering though, how many yards of fabric does it generally take to make this style of dress? Also, I think it turned out great! (We are always our worst critics.) Thank you for sharing this experience. God bless 💕

[@theMennoniteMom]

Good for you! I get around 3 yards at 60 inches wide. then I usually have some left over, depending how I cut... Good luck with your sewing!

[@amystiles3284]

@@theMennoniteMom I also bought a serger a year ago,and it promptly became a large paper weight! LOL Now because of your video I am going to dust it off and give it a try. :-)

[@theMennoniteMom]

@@amystiles3284 lol, way to go!

[@judithcoe7551]

Your little boy is so sweet and cute with his animals. I love the new fresh summery print. Thanks for the demo! It looks beautiful!

[@cherylturner5868]

I laughed so hard when you said you have hips in 2 different zip codes. I learned to see in 7th and 8th grade home ec class. I use to sew alot, especially when my kids were little. Oh but I hated knit fabrics. We didn't have those fancy machines years ago. Love Zanders haircut so handsome!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

very interesting! I bet those classes helped a good bit! Yes, he is all grown up! (:

[@mujermadura5982]

You are a virtuous woman, I really enjoy your content. You have a beautiful family....your skills as a seamsstress they are better than mine...receive a hug from those Christian foto Puerto Rico.....Blessings

[@theMennoniteMom]

hello to Puerto Rico! Thanks for being here! we are honored!

[@pollyshirley4517]

When I saw you had knives on the material I couldn't help but laugh I sew like you do. I do use pins to line up my seams I have sewed things in wrong so many times I got tired of taking out stitches. If it gets done and looks good that's all that matters.Love the show can't wait for hubby to see the house I do the same thing for my husband.

[@frugalmrsolson1]

You are adorable.

[@944gemma]

Just found this video and I know I’m going to love it.

[@DelilaFarrell]

I am so excited you made this video! Great job! Love from my channel❤️

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks!

[@emily-sharingChrist]

Me too!! Love from a new channel! 💞

[@mercurymom]

Thank you! I have been sewing for 40 years...self taught...you have a great set up!! and do an amazing job.

[@theMennoniteMom]

Thank you!

[@rebekkawisniewski9791]

Your delightful and a wonderful seamstress..repeat slowly three times

[@theMennoniteMom]

😂😂 thanks for the laugh. You are sounding like my husband. He would say something like that "repeat after me!" lol

[@sofiesofie8116]

Oh my god I can't even get my little one to sit more then two whole minutes at the table god bless him thank you so much for posting this video I can't do this omg your amazing...

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks, but yes, he is pretty laid back and he LOVES food... LOL. so he sits at the table ha ha.

[@whitneymichelle8300]

But, in all seriousness seem ripping is devestatinh. 😂

[@theMennoniteMom]

it sure is!!!! hate it!

[@mydailyreward2090]

Ahhhhhhhh that little gift from God of yours is ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!! His smile melts my heart!!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

yes, he truly is a gift from God! we love him so much!

[@lindanave6390]

Just proves you’re human lol! You were getting so frustrated there for a minute and I was afraid you might let a naughty word slip out lol! I was cracking up! You’re so delightful!! Thanks for posting!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

ha ha! funny one! yes, sometimes those bad words can slip out and I have to smack myself. I am human.

[@littlean24]

No excuse for your messy house needed! It’s one of the things I love about your channel. You are just a regular mom! A very conservative modest one lol but still just a regular joe! Lol

[@theMennoniteMom]

You're the best! LOL

[@janetsways4176]

Hahaha, this is one reason I don’t sew often!!! But when I do and it turns out well... I’m very pleased. You did a wonderful job.

[@theMennoniteMom]

lol, yes, it's not fun when it acts like this! LOL.

[@jeannablassingame4335]

You are fearless! Never would I sew in Front of anyone! I laughed with you -you are so funny!! Smart and funny.God bless , you did great!

[@theMennoniteMom]

LOL, I don't view myself that way, I actually kind of enjoy making fun of myself, so yeah, sewing is a great opportunity for that!

[@vintagehomemaker9338]

So pretty. I love the sleeve length! Old age and weight loss have really made my upper arms very "jiggly"! Such a modest,lovely dress. Thanks for sharing this skill.

[@theMennoniteMom]

you're welcome, glad you enjoyed!

[@julievargas9936]

Oh my gosh! I’m so glad to watch this one. Laughing so hard I have tears. You are a trooper.

[@gloriamatherly4874]

I loved this! It brings back memories of the " good ol' days" when I used to sew most of the clothes for my children and myself. I disliked ripping out stitches and setting in sleeves as well! I don't really sew much anymore now that I am older {69}. I enjoyed the interruption clips and your sense of humor!!

[@theMennoniteMom]

glad you enjoyed and you could relive some memories!

[@dawn7612]

I am 73 and decided my nightgowns were all too short. I am tall. I am more modest as I age.. so during quarantine I added 4" or 5" length to all my nities with any fabrics I had that looked good with the nities. It was fun and now I feel better that my ugly knees are hidden just in case we visit family or I need to be in nurse care someday!

[@shirleybewley6646]

The gathering stitch on the sleeve head is for easing. AND any seamstress vwho does aLot of sewing uses as few pins as possible. Your doing great!

[@janellrismiller4522]

I love your sense of humor. I will never sew a dress and I still watched your whole video with a smile on my face.

[@theMennoniteMom]

lol, well thanks a lot! I count that an honor!

[@shirleydrake1602]

Well, I am watching this for the second time. It has been at least nine months since my last comment. I’m going to make a suggestion for your zipper insertion. Before sewing up your back, lay the zipper along the back seem and mark where the zipper ends. Start from the top of your back seem, at the neck, sew a basting (long stitches, like for gathering) down to where you have made your mark for the end of your zipper. When you reach your zipper end mark, switch to a regular seem . Finish sewing up your back, using the regular length stitch. Go to the ironing board and press the seem open, this step is crucial, so don’t skip it . Make sure the seem in the back is ironed laying flat. Now, with your zipper closed, start at one side of your zipper, at the top of the dress and sew your zipper to to that side of the dress. When you get to the end of your zipper, sew across the bottom, trying to keep your seem straight. Now, leaving your needle down, turn your dress around, now sew the zipper to the other side of your dress, going bottom to top. Now use your seem ripper to rip open the basted stitch in the back of your bodice. You will have a perfectly matched waist band and neckline every time.

[@codyleeser392]

I pushed subscribe when I saw the corgis. I fell in love with your humor. I felt your frustration with the dress.

[@theMennoniteMom]

yay! so honored to have you here! Welcome! Yes, we have two corgis. such cuties!

[@belieftransformation]

I love your sense of humour & reality! I was fortunate that I was taught to sew by my mother but also loose patience with myself. I found that sewing a large stitch down the back & then laying the closed zipper on it to sew to the material works for me. Then you have to tear out the loose seam. Maybe that won’t work for everyone, though.

[@nicolepries4332]

You are my kind of seamstress! lol. I once made a skirt from some beautiful knit fabric, and forgot to take into account the stretchiness of the fabric at the waist, and it was hopelessly too big. Instead of taking it out and trying again, I safety pinned a nice wide braided elastic around the waist, folded the top over, and went on my way. Two years later and I still haven't sewn that elastic in or fixed the skirt itself, but I do wear it all the time, safety pins and all lol

[@theMennoniteMom]

Oh my! thanks for the laugh! Exactly what I would do! LOL

[@dawn7612]

😱 oh no!!!

[@MissLoveLife]

Janine, I enjoyed every single moment of this vlog. Love the dress and the beautiful colors. But Xander, my god I love him and his happy face so much. 😍❤

[@theMennoniteMom]

thanks so much! glad you enjoyed! and Xander... (: he is a little goof. thanks for watching!

[@tngal483]

I can tell you would be such a fun person to have as a friend, and I love your dresses. So pretty.

[@theMennoniteMom]

thank you so much!

[@maryqueenofScots2023]

You're awesome thanks for a lot of smiles this morning. Imagine being raised 'English' then fostering in an Old Order Amish home and having to learn to sew on an old treadle machine (this was a 'few' years ago ;-)) it was good though I"m a better person for the experience and the love I had there! '2000 years later' THAT was epic my dear and your dress looks great! I love the plain sleeves!

[@theMennoniteMom]

I'm super intrigued! How old were you when you went there and how long did you stay! I'm sorry you had to be in the foster system... I'm sure that's tough. Thanks for the laugh! Old Treadle Machine (:

[@hazelcoate9203]

yes clip the curves and corners ,lovely tutorial, thank you

[@jwpoole1408]

Going back to old school Portlandia 7/25/20..I know how to sew. My mom taught me. So interesting.So sew!

[@theMennoniteMom]

good for you!