Sewing Inspiration from McCall's 8138 | Pattern Review (2022)

Get all the details for this cute fit and flare midi dress. Sewing inspiration can be found anywhere, including from a zipper pull ring. In this video, I have a pattern review to get you sew inspired to make this adorable fit and flare knit dress from McCall's 8138.
This is a perfect beginner pattern from the "Learn to Sew for Fun" line from McCall's. If you're new to sewing and have basic sewings skills, you can sew this beginner friendly pattern.
Today, I'm sharing all the details about the pattern to get you prepared for this beginner friendly sewing project. Make sure you watch the entire video. Don't miss the fashion show at the end when I show you several ways the dress can be styled to maximize wear.
Before you leave, tell me how you would style it for yourself. I'd love to get some ideas because I plan to get lots of wear from this dress.
Enjoy the video!
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[@AnitabyDesign]

Check out my new ONLINE SWEING COURSE for BEGINNERS 👉🏽 learntosew.anitabydesign.com/courses/learn-to-sew

[@donnacobb701]

Anita I stopped in the middle of this video and bought the pattern. You are such a “bad influence”. You have become my sewing muse my friend.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Donna!!! 🤣😂🤣 You've got me screaming!!! I LOVE it! You've got me smiling from my heart, SEW Sister! Have fun sewing your dress!

[@devoriahall6827]

Lovely Anita!! This dress looks better on you than the model on the pattern You actually "pair" this dress extremely well. I wouldn't change a thing!

[@HisStolenIdentity]

I LOVE how the necklaces and the zipper compliment each other. Zipper jewelry :). Nice versatile dress!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yeeesss! "Zipper Jewelry!" I love how the necklaces complimented the zipper too. I'm gonna get so much wear from this dress.

[@karenolvera2947]

Love what your shirts saying . So true for myself, also

[@dorothydeiratani5093]

Love the logo on the t shirt Amen!

[@melissasteiner9039]

As always you and your dress are gorgeous. Love your different ways to style the dress. God Bless.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much! God bless you too. 💕

[@dcrow2210]

I love ALL the different ways you put this dress together. You are so talented. I am just getting back into garment sewing after (life happens!) being away for 40 years! You inspire me. Thank you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Awesome! Welcome back to sewing.

[@suek7086]

I have done the same, recently.

[@janyenyo]

Love the dress, love your styling and you are a wonderful teacher!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much!

[@serenity8368]

SEE! You can still cover yourself up and still look attractive. Nice fashion show; love all the styles from one dress. God has blessed you with talent and may God continue to bless you. I'm subscribing! 😃😁🙏

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@TriBeccaDesigns]

You are so correct, sewing inspiration can be found anywhere... I once found it on the moss of a tree (seriously).😊 That dress is a timeless classic, and I love your t-shirt. I feel exactly the same way...JESUS and a sewing machine!

[@kflem7777]

So many of the women in my family are seamstress that I decided to give into my God given talent and join them! Yesterday I picked up my Singer 4452 and started watching KZbin videos. I'm SO glad I found your channel. You are THE most clear, informative and thorough instructor I've found. New subscriber here 😉. Blessings

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaayyy, Kimberly! Welcome to the sewing community! Oh my goodness! Your family must be dancing and singing about you joining them. Oooohhh, how I wish my sisters would sew. What a beautiful gift you have. I'm so glad to have you join me here. I hope you will enjoy your time on the channel. Blessings to you too, SEW Sister! 💕

[@sharoncrawford6450]

I love this dress. I’ve made it twice already. I eliminated the zipper even though the zipper makes the dress. I’ve never put in a exposed zipper before and didn’t want to mess it up. I am determined to make it with the zipper once I’ve watched more videos on how to insert the zipper. Thanks for the video! 👗🧵🪡🥰

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh yes, Sharon! You must try it with the zipper.

[@nonabatiste219]

Loved this pattern. I’m going to make three; one for me, my daughter and my granddaughter. It would look great with a crop or long sleeveless vest. I’ve been sewing since I was a young teenager and now I’m an old lady and my love of sewing has never wavered even when it’s popularity changed. I’ve sewn for my children, grandchildren and strangers. Your videos help to bring back a skill that I thought was going to fall by the wayside for young ladies, who never even learned to sew on a button. Thanks

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh Nona, you just made my heart smile. Wow! You've done a lot of sewing. After I came back from a long break from sewing to raise my family, I was shocked to see so many people sewing through online communities. I'm thrilled that the internet provides opportunity for people to learn sewing from anywhere. Thank you so much for being here and leaving a comment.

[@donnascott5414]

Beautiful dress, so versatile. You look wonderful in it. One lady said your videos are such a bad influence, she goes and buys the pattern mid way through to make what you are showing. I’m afraid I will be doing the same thing! Thank you for your videos and your time!!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are very welcome. Have fun making your dress.

[@suzismith9681]

Its so nice to see someone with dress sense and a love of Jesus. You can't fail! My mom used to say don't put it all on show , keep em guessing. Otherwise there's nothing to discover......

[@deeaskegard268]

You are soooo inspiring. Thank you for what you are doing for those of us who are a bit intimidated by sewing.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome, and it is my pleasure. I really enjoy sharing.

[@yolereed1]

Love, love all the styles! You are an inspiration and I review your older KZbin lessons ALL the time❣️

[@AnitabyDesign]

Awesome! Thank you so much. I really appreciate your support. 💕

[@csparks9602]

Love this! I recently found your channel. I used to sew dresses for my daughter when she was young. I stopped when she got older. I never sewed for myself. The thought of all the adjustments seemed too daunting. About 2 years ago I pulled out the machine and started making quilts inspired by my Aunt and dresses for my granddaughters. I'm just now reconsidering making clothes for myself now that the rust is off (lol, it's been 10+ yrs). I've got one of your sew-alongs on my list for 2022. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaayyy! I'm so happy to hear you're planning to sew something for yourself. Have fun and please come back and tell me how it went.

[@minervamayberry3758]

This is beautiful. Thank you for your instructions.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@holysmokes63]

Love your tee shirt! God bless you, Ms Anita! Thank you for sharing your talent and knowledge with us. You’re a wonderful influence!!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome

[@serenity8368]

Oh wow, I purchased this pattern a year ago and haven't sewn it yet! Thank you for this video. I'm going to make it this week. Love your tee shirt!🤗🙂🙏

[@1tlb0k]

oh mercy, you rock that dress. This could be the one dress wonder!

[@AnitabyDesign]

"The one dress wonder!" 😂 YES! I love it! 💕

[@BritInvLvr]

Oh my. This dress looks great on you. It reminds me of my favorite top I had in junior high. 😍

[@marymac4729]

Anita, you just make me smile! I’m so glad you took on this pattern! I put mine away after I installed the too short recommended zipper and then ripped it back out! It is still in the bottom of my sewing bag! I temporarily gave up on it, and probably never would have finished it, but ran into your review and tutorial today! You have given me the sewjo to return to it! Of course it looks fabulous on you, as even a paper sack would! I love your patience and style of teaching. When your hands are shown in the videos, I find myself thinking God Bless those hands! Your book is great, and I have it in my sewing room for inspiration!❤️

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh my goodness! Thank you so much for your kind remarks. Have fun getting back into your sewing.

[@blanchedixon4252]

You are one lovely, sassy, classy chic (Sew Sister)! I liked ALL the looks! Be blessed.😃👍🏽👌🏽👏🏽

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much! You be blessed too.

[@carolsteadman4206]

Dear Anita, you have done it again perfect shoes and boots for this sofisticated dress, no tips needed. I think it would also adapt to a pencil skirt.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Ooooohhhh, YES! I would love this as a pencil skirt. Great idea!

[@suek7086]

I love all your stylings.

[@veronicacarson2776]

This is the absolute best concise, detailed sewing guidance I’ve ever seen.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yay, thank you!

[@sewndebisdream6953]

Love how you make great things and present them. Thanks so much. You gave me some wonderful ideas!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@daraharper2003]

VERY PRETTY, Anita! Thank You!😀

[@marianita420]

Go on and take the runway! That is so pretty and you are right you can do so much with that dress.

[@indiajohnsey2729]

I saw ur shirt and knew I wanted to see your site, WOW I was very impressed 👍,

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh, thank you so much. I'm so glad you stopped by to visit with me. Please come back again. 💕

[@satarabrown-glascomba9369]

In love with this pattern! But girl you rocked the fashion show!!! Love it! Go Jesus!!!!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much 😂

[@Torontogal777]

Your review and instructions are so articulate and clear! Thank you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@chefcarolnyc5325]

I just purchased the pattern yesterday. I love the leopard scarf vest combination. I’ve been neglecting my page because I got so involved with yours. ☺️ Thanks for being awesome.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaayyy! I'm so glad you purchased the pattern. OMGoodness, I thought the scarf vest was cute too. Okay, you just made me laugh so hard about neglecting your page 🤣😂🤣 Well, I'm taking that as a compliment. Thank you, my sister! 💕

[@HomeCentsWithNell]

That dress looks so..... sharp. Thank you, thank you for demonstrating how you can orient a favorite fabric to determine if there's enough stretch for the pattern. Loved the fashion show!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@maryp7175]

You have a fantastic sense of style!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much 💕

[@amyelliott6565]

That was fun! Your pageant days are still paying off 😁 This makes me want to sew knits

[@AnitabyDesign]

Amy!!!!! Thank you so much. OMGosh! You remember that I did pageants??? That's just awesome! Thank you so much for being here, my SEW Sister! You just made my whole heart smile. 💕💕💕

[@kristenlumpuy4955]

What a gracious woman you are. God has blessed you. Thank you.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much, Kristen! Yes, He really has. I am grateful and humbled.

[@sherryssweetsensationz2623]

Good Morning beautiful!!! This dress is amazing and you are wearing it my sister. I have NEVER sewn ANYTHING. I just got your book and I have so enjoyed the reading. So very sorry for your loss. So Thankful you’re doing well. I love your website and I think I’m taking your sewing class. I lost 40 pounds and have packed so many clothes that I need to get on my sewing machine I purchased 15 years ago and made NOTHING. Thank you for your channel. I’ll look into your class. God Bless you and your family ❤️

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much. Yes, please pull that machine out and let's have some fun. I'm so glad that you enjoyed the book. And I'm also glad you like the channel. God bless you and you family too.

[@julielangridge7900]

Great tutorial had this pattern a while not fitted a zip in stretch. You’ve given me the confidence to do so. You look amazing the dress a proper model….and those shoes🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩

[@sunflowersammee1994]

You look lovely in your dress Nice make!

[@sewnewtothis70]

I so love that you show how to style a finished garment.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Awesome! I'm so glad you like that because I enjoy sharing it. 🤗

[@carlaleilani2929]

Absolutely gorgeous dress. Love all the styling options, however I am a lover of animal prints, so yes that leopard print is may absolute favorite. Thank you for your inspiration, Anita.

[@brendafuller1806]

Beautiful pattern

[@Besorah1729]

Amen 🙏 love that dress and your tshirt! 🥰

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you! 🤗

[@lindalee9177]

Looks so comfortable and stylish.....inspiring!

[@jpsview3155]

This is exactly the type of dress I’ve been searching for! Classic, modest, perfect length and an all-round feminine dress! Thank you for featuring it and for the fun ideas to give it a little pizzazz!! Well done Anita! 👏

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome! I agree. This is a classic style.

[@keziaalbertoni]

The sentence on your t-shirt... I just love it ❤

[@rosariacarlostella9105]

Gosh what a good video. You are an incredible stylist already.

[@shellystafford4654]

I didn’t think I’d sew a dress with a zipper in the front like this, but after seeing this video (and all the styling options) I’ve added this pattern to my sew list!!! 😀

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yeeesss! Let's Gooo, Shelly! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@lisaboard5018]

Girl!!! You are working that dress!!!! Ya Look Good. This will be my go fly dress. When I fly I try to wear something easy and comfortable. Thanks!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh my gosh, YES! This would be a great dress to fly in because it is super comfortable.💕

[@LavalBennett]

Praise God. I love your tshirt ✝️☺️

[@lynnleipold2617]

Love this but would have to wear some serious shapewear. I’m 76 and have quite a big tummy

[@marie-pierrechampault4721]

Absolutly elegant and chic 👏👏👏

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you! 😊

[@jeanniehorn1500]

Oh my...those heels :)

[@shawnagunn9054]

Oh wow.....that is a hot dress!

[@tamarakarlin2758]

Beautiful dress Anita! You make everything so classy! I love it every way you styled it.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much! I'm gonna get a lot of wear from this dress.

[@Venus-bb7cd]

You have great fashion sense.🙂

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you, Venus!

[@tamanikas.7221]

✨✨✨AWESOME✨✨✨review Ms. Anita❣️Your spirit of excellence shines through in everything you do.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Wow, thank you

[@barbvest1834]

You did such a great job, it fits you so nice... I liked the look with the neck scarf.. it looked classy and didn't compete with the zipper.. keep up the great work... your an inspiration to us all.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much!

[@e.p.1477]

Wow, you look wonderful. You are such a inspiration for me, I thank you a lot! Love and kisses from Berlin/ Germany👍💖

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much!

[@trishp.8903]

Thank you Anita for sharing. I purchased the pattern today (01/15/22) and it was only $3.99, what a deal!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaay, Trish! I'm so glad you were able to purchase the pattern on sale. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@stephanieomelia8437]

Love the dress Anita. I have a lacy blouse that I think would work good with that dress. I 'm planning on getting the pattern to make for myself. I'll let you know how it works. I love your site. You are a good teacher. I have been sewing since I was 13, but I haven't sown in about ten years. I am retired and I recently lost my husband. You have inspired me to start sewing again since I now have alot of time on my hand. Thank you.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh Stephanie, I'm so very sorry to hear about your husband. I'm sending you so much love, my sister because I'm familiar with that loss. Sewing has been very therapeutic for me and I'm glad to hear that you're getting back into it. Congratulations on your retirement. Welcome back to sewing, my sister.

[@sharonrimsza7960]

So lovely. Love simple classic bling. So very nice. I have ordered this pattern and looking into the rib knit. Thank you! I need a love button for your channel.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome! Oh my goodness! You're making my heart smile.

[@bbrosser694]

Anita, I would copy your actions from A to Z if I was making this versatile and beautiful design from McCall's. Thank you for sharing your styling ideas.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Awesome! You're very welcome.

[@conniesteele7213]

Very good looking dress. I am impressed that the skirt hem is so even from the floor. I liked all your accessorizing with the basic dress.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@Johnsoncrna]

It looks stunning on you! Thanks for the walk through on the pattern, especially the part about the zipper length. Love your channel!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome, Andrea! I'm glad you found this to be helpful.

[@luannculhane8878]

Love, love, love!!! I'm an animal print girl, so I would love to see it with a leopard belt or shoes. Thanks for sharing!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oooohhh, YES! The leopard belt and shoes would look fierce!

[@jeanjones7913]

I'm new to your channel and love every minute of being here. I love the dress I would wear it with a blue belt my favorite color with a silver buckle to match the zipper pull.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Jean! Thank you for being here. The blue belt would look fabulous!

[@dollylewis9467]

lm so glad you made this dress. I purchased this pattern last summer and had not made it, but this looks great on you. I'l hoping for the same results. Now I can't wait to pick out my fabric. Thank you Anita.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome! It's a great pattern. Have fun sewing your dress.

[@gailking6071]

Anita thanks for your tutorial on this pattern dress, I have a hard time finding the right type of knit fabric to buy, you hit on point. I love that hat!! Thanks for sharing.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@margaretnewton5985]

Loved all the information and especially your runway looks.

[@mariagraham8752]

Anita you are wearing that hat Luv it great video thank you for sharing. The dress is amazing.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thanks so much

[@cherylkindle4497]

Go girl! I like all the ways you styled it! I liked the belt. It added that cinch to the waist. I would keep to silver jewelry because of the silver zipper. Those black zipper shoes are sooo perfect! Gotta love it!😁💖

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much, Cheryl! Yes, the shoes just set if off!!!

[@patriciabrown1507]

Anita, you are super cute!!! I love ❤ your dress and the different ways that you've styled it. What a great idea to wear an animal print shawl with a belt. I thought it was a vest at first!! Clever!!! You are a fashionista!!! The dress would look great with a short faux leather jacket too...Happy sewing!! I love your shirt...I ordered the mug!!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Patricia! Yes, I thought the scarf vest was a cute idea. And I love the idea of wearing it with a short leather jacket. I have one and I plan to wear it with the dress one day. Thanks for purchasing the mug. I appreciate your support.💕

[@TheZenmiss]

Fabulousity...I went looking for this pattern yesterday and they were all gone! I am determined to find it!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh no, Karen! Well, if you don't find it at the local stores, it's available on their website.

[@arlenemurphy804]

Beautiful and classy lady. You did a fabulous job. Love all your accessories… you look wonderful

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much!

[@nancybenson1951]

As always this is great instruction. 💕

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thanks so much 😊

[@mattiewinton8523]

I love the pattern and the beautiful fabric choice nailed!!..each of your styling was just perfect can’t wait to sew this pattern,Thank you.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome. Have fun sewing your dress.

[@l.a.w.79]

Love love love!!! Try a blazer with it. Try boots either black or red (if you have). But the hats you had were 🔥🔥🔥

[@rmurray9065]

Lovely dress you inspired me to do more sewing. Wow! You matched it up to the tee. Those hats are amazing. Keep up the awesome work my sister. 🙏

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much! I will keep sewing and styling. 💕

[@serendipatty]

Thanks Anita! Can't wait for the sew-along!💞

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome!

[@bonniekazmar5524]

I just love you and I love your shirt! You explain things so wonderfully and model them so well!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Bonnie!!! Oh, thank you so much. I'm very happy to hear that you are enjoying the videos.

[@deep.2082]

I loved this video! The dress is perfect and I would style it with boots and maybe a cute colorful scarf.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, I have a lot of scarves and I look forward to wearing them with the dress.

[@shelondafurlow1400]

Ms Anita. I am going to get this pattern.. You go girl..

[@shirleyontiveros612]

I made this with a camo jersey and love it! Very flattering dress!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Ooooohhhhh!!!!! Shirley, that sounds amazing!!! I just purchase a tan rib knit to make another one. It's a great dress.

[@pmbcmodesto8751]

I love it I’m going to buy this pattern today. Thanks for sharing the look… LT

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@charissecolbert7204]

Lovely, classy and fabulous!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much, Charisse! 💕

[@etaburken2209]

love your tshirt😀

[@teresawilbur8035]

Girl, you look amazing! I sapphire blue moto jacket that would look great with that dress! Heading to Joann’s tomorrow.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Ooohhh, Yeeesss! That sapphire jacket sounds sassy! Oh YES!!!

[@marcelamartinez8409]

Great videos, please keep teaching us!!!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, I sure will. I enjoy teaching. 💕

[@stephanielee3734]

It so cute!!

[@gooodbrid010]

Simply beautiful. I will make this dress

[@julieukengland8315]

Great description of this gorgeous dress.. thank you for sharing xxx

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome💕

[@upperroomeeo9928]

I live in FL so short sleeves are a must for me and cotton blends work best here. Love your sew alongs… on my way to Joann’s now to pick up material 😊❤

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaayyy!!! So glad you will be joining the Sew Along! 🤗 Have fun sewing your dress.

[@mcw92569]

Love it! 😃 You wear it well! 😊💕

[@urabrown9671]

You always look fly. I love the dress and the different ways you can style it.❤️

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much!!

[@joycefiller7744]

@@AnitabyDesign Oh Anita this dress is amazing, I ordered it from Something Delightful its on sale as of Jan 17th 2022. Your videos are truly an inspiration and I have sewn for years. That one video where you were in GA I think, in that fabric store with your friends, oh my gosh I laughed and laughed it did me good! Please keep up the great work! Love your tips and tricks lol. I could go on and on. Joyce

[@joycefiller7744]

I had to look up that new expression, "She looks fly" oh I totally agree love those belts, hats, scarf etc. Joyce

[@tuhdda6672]

Lovin' it!! Goin to Joann's NOW!!! Thanks,Anita Ur SO Kind!🙏🏽💖

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaayyy!!! You're very welcome. I'm too glad you will be sewing the dress.