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Back to school with Amelia

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Time for another guest blog with another amazing guest blogger! Meet Dora Serrano and see what she has up her sleeve for this back to school sew! *Spoiler alert~ it’s Amelia!*

Rise and shine, Sunshines! We’re Back to School! I’m Dora, mother of three, sewist, tester, blogger and teacher. So… since we’re all getting back to lessons and books around here, for this series, I’m sharing with you one of my favorite Back to School dresses: Amelia

Back to school with Amelia

“S”… is for School, September, Start…

At my home, September is always the month for fresh new starts. This year we have even more of these… my older girl is starting high school, my younger girl has a new teacher, I’ll have new classes to teach… it’s so much to get excited about! My little girl usually wears a new dress on the first day and this year I’ll be joining her with my own Amelia dress.

Blue and Pink

For this dress, I decided to play with pink and blue. I love blue and my girly girl loves pink, so… why not? I went for different shades of pink and burgundy for my dress. And I used blue french terry with pink bunnies for hers. I could have played a bit more with the pattern: mixing fabrics and colors ( the bodice could have been different from the skirt/bottom of the top)… but the fabrics were so beautiful as they were…

  

The pattern requires a 4-way stretch knit fabric with at least a 50% stretch and similar or lighter weight fabric for the lining. The skirt can be in either knit or woven. I used a knit with a nice recovery for my bodice and woven with a small percentage of stretch for my skirt. For my girl’s Amelia top, I used soft french terry.

Sewing Amelia

After measuring me and my girl, I checked the sizes and ended up selecting size 12 for me and a 4 for my daughter.
Although I’m between sizes (12 for bodice and 14 for the skirt), this is a gathered skirt, so it’s pretty forgiving.

And if you think blending sizes is difficult, think again! This pattern (and all of them in Bella Sunshine Designs) includes straight forward instructions to guide you through blending sizes. Nothing to fear!

What did I struggle with???

Well… It wasn’t really a struggle, but I always twist my arm when it comes to lining a pattern. However, it does give your piece a better finish and with this pattern, you really benefit from the lined bodice.

I only added one thing after lining: a small pink binding for contrast at the neckline and at the armscye. I think it really made the fabric pop.

All in all, I really enjoyed sewing this dress. It has been on my to-do list for quite some time. Since my girl usually wears either leggings or shorts, I ended up sewing the top length version for her and the knee length dress for myself.

 

 

 

Still having some doubts? Well, we’ve got you covered!

• Amelia sew-along album

• Need help? Shout out in the Bella Sunshine Designs Facebook group. The BSD community is pretty helpful and will be there for you.

Go on… Take advantage of this Back to School sale and grab these awesome patterns that are featured this week:
Amelia (top, dress, and maxi) and Apple cardigan. Two great patterns at a great price!

*I used affiliate links in this post. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase,
I will receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.*

Meet Hazel! The Newest Must-Have Wardrobe Staple!

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Hazel is going to be the newest BSD craze! It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s beyond adorable! Wanna know more? Let’s go break it down and give you a proper introduction!

Meet Hazel! The Newest Must-Have Wardrobe Staple!

First, let’s talk about ease. Being a dolman style pattern, it’s not just easy to sew, but it is SO easy to wear! Hazel is extremely flattering on ALL body types! With 2 size ranges; kids sizes 6 months to 12 years and women’s sizes 0-30 (or get the bundle with the FULL range of sizes!); ANYONE can look and feel great in this! But don’t take my word for it, look at these tester pictures!

Next, I’ll point out one of Hazel’s more unique features, the drawstring sleeves. You can leave them loose or cinch them up for a cute ruched look! I especially love this look in the sleeveless version, but it also looks great with the short and 3/4 sleeve options. Look at these amazing sleeves!

Also, Hazel comes in 3 different lengths. Make it a top to go with your cute shorts or jeans. The tunic length is perfect for leggings or other pants/skirts. And the dress length will be a great option with a great pair of boots for fall, which is right around the corner! Really, just picture it in a great pumpkin or mustard color in the 3/4 sleeves. Fall perfection! Let’s see how some of these different lengths look, shall we?

 

As a final little surprise, the women’s version does come with one last little option that I know I love! 2 different necklines! You can have a higher or lower cut front neckline, which I know a lot of people appreciate! It’s always great to have options, right?

All in all, we’re really in love with Hazel and can’t WAIT to see all of the ones that get made! It’s on sale right now in our shop for just $5.50 in children’s sizes and $6.50 for adult sizes or get it ALL with the bundle for only $11.50! These prices are good through August 10th! And when you have one made, swing by our Facebook group to share your creation! We LOVE seeing them and you never know… you might just inspire someone else!

Introducing The Daisy Tie Back Dress!

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There’s a new summer dress in town and it’s super sweet and loaded with options! Are you ready for ALL the juicy details about Daisy? Then let’s go!

Introducing The Daisy Tie Back Dress!

Daisy is the newest dress in the Bella Sunshine lineup and we’re SO excited to introduce her to you! She’s the perfect little summer dress that comes in kid’s sizing from 6 months to 12 years. Like all of our patterns, it went through extensive testing across the full size range to ensure a great fit!

Daisy’s most notable feature is the adorable tie back. How can you NOT love this gorgeous detail?

Next, we’ll talk bodice. You have your choice between a straight neckline, a scooped neckline, or a sweetheart neckline. Something for every dress wearer to love!

And then we move onto the skirt. Here’s where the options really take off! For lengths, you have top, dress, or maxi length skirts. You can make any of these options with or without a ruffle. AND… my favorite option… is a hi-low skirt on any of these lengths! Also with or without ruffles.

With all of these options, you can make a whole wardrobe of dresses and never make the same dress twice! A hi-low top with ruffles and a straight neckline. A straight hemmed maxi with a sweetheart neckline. A hi-low dress with a scoop neck and no ruffles… Just imagine all of the possibilities!

You can get your copy of this amazing Daisy Tie Back Dress here right now for only $5.50 through Friday, July 12th! Great deal on a great summer dress pattern! I know I can’t wait to sew a few for my own daughter!

We’d LOVE to see your Daisy dresses! Just join our facebook group and post away! Or scroll the page for some awe-inspiring inspiration from some of our other fans! We can’t wait to see you there!

New Releases! Primrose and Coraline Are Here!

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We all love a new pattern release, right? These 2 patterns have been a long time in the making, but they are finally making their debut! Let’s get to know Primrose and Coraline!

New Releases! Primrose and Coraline Are Here!

Something brand new to Bella Sunshine is finally here and we’re SO excited! The Primrose Panties, and Coraline Camisole in women’s, kids, and doll sizes!

Primrose

 

First, let’s take a look at Primrose. She’s super simple and classic. The pattern comes complete with high and low rise waistlines in both brief and hipster styles. You can sew her up with knit fabric bands or bind your edges in foe (fold over elastic). So you can customize your perfect pair of underwear! How great is that?

The pattern will come in Ladies sizes 0-30,

Girls size 6 months to 12 years,

AND in 14.5″ and 18″ doll sizing! (Think Americal Girl dolls) 

These patterns will be a perfect go-to for your wardrobe needs, providing comfort and ease in your life. They’ll be on sale until Friday, Feb 15! Get the ladies for $6.50 (reg $9), girls for $5.50 (reg $8) and dolls for $3.50 (reg $5). Or, for an even better value, get the bundle! Doll+girl for $8.50 (reg $11), Ladies+girl for $11.50 (reg $15) or all three for just $14.50 (reg $19.50)!

Coraline

Coraline is another simple and classic style with spaghetti straps and three length options; sports bra/bralette, top, and dress. Use it as an undershirt, a shirt, a slip, or a nightgown.

Ladies sizing (0-30) includes a full bust adjustment like all of our other ladies sizing.

Our kid models from the tests LOVED the comfort.

And again, we’ve also drafted this one in 14.5″ and 18″ doll sizes!

Another pattern full of comfort and style with a great fit… and better yet? It’s not only good as an undergarment but will also make a super cute summer top! They’re all on sale now through the 15th of Feb, so grab them while the prices are low! Get the ladies for $6.50 (reg $9), girls for $5.50 (reg $8) and dolls for $3.50 (reg $5). Or, for an even better value, get the bundle! Doll+girl for $8.50 (reg $11), Ladies+girl for $11.50 (reg $15) or all three for $14.50 (reg $19.50)!

Now, after hearing all about them, I bet you want to see them, right? Let’s move on to the super amazing tester pics we have of Primrose and Coraline to share with you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aren’t they amazing?! We really do have the BEST testers and very much appreciate everything they do for us!

We love putting out new designs, so if you have any ideas for new patterns we could create, please comment with those suggestions below! And join our Facebook Community for help, sharing, and fun! We look forward to seeing you there!

New Release: The Sophia Tank, Tunic, and Dress!

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Did you hear about our newest release? Sophia is ALL the rage right now and PERFECT for warmer weather sewing! Would you like to meet her? Let’s go!

New Release: The Sophia Tank, Tunic, and Dress

Sophia is the newest addition to Bella Sunshine Designs and she is SO amazing! Sophia is a racerback tank style which features 3 different lengths and a gorgeous waterfall hem that flatters all body types. What makes it even better is that it comes in both adult AND children’s sizing, so mommy and me sets can be made and enjoyed!

As always, our testers really nailed this one! And they’re results are stunning! Let’s start by peeking at some of the girl sized creations… They will blow you away!

Girls Sophia

We got SO many great pictures from our testers… as usual. Let’s start by looking at a couple of these amazing backs!

 

Although, the fronts are completely adorable too! Especially when a girl loves to strike a pose!

Ladies Sophia

The women’s version is just as gorgeous (if not more so)! And we are so blessed to have testers of all different body types to ensure the fit and proportions are perfect! Just look at the backs of these Sophias and how completely flattering they all are!

How can you not love this one? Oh, and she definitely doesn’t disappoint from the front, either!

 

Oh… did we mention that this pattern is maternity friendly???

And of course, new sews are always better when you share with friends!

And in looking at these, you also can’t forget the ever-popular mommy and me possibilities!

So what do you think? Are you ready to add Sophia to your closet? You can buy the ladies version here,  and the girls here. Or if you want to go for the mommy and me option, you can get the bundle here!

Please come join our Facebook group and share your gorgeous Sophia sews with us! We would LOVE to see them!

An Emmaline Sew Along is Coming!

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At Bella Sunshine, we like to hold regular sew alongs to foster a sense of community, to create together, and to give those who might need an extra little push that needed motivation. So, when one of our favorite new patterns released, we thought the timing was perfect! So… let’s get ready for an Emmaline sew along!

An Emmaline Sew Along is Coming!

How excited am I? SO VERY! I’ve been waiting for the Emmaline for a very long time. I absolutely adore the chevron color blocking. It’s effortless to wear, and easy to sew. The sew along will begin on Monday April 23rd and run for 8 days. Here’s the schedule:
We WILL be allowing hacks during the sew along also! So feel free to grab your Sahara or Amelia pieces to mash with the Emmaline! Be creative! We LOVE seeing all of the thought and work that goes into creating the PERFECT garment. So start thinking about fabric choices and get ready… because it’s going to be fun! You are welcome to do the ladies or child version. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, grab the bundle and make it a set!

Be sure to join our main facebook group as well as our sew along group to participate in the fun! We look forward to seeing you there!

New Release ~ Emmaline

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We’re always so excited for a new design. And this one is no exception. The style and ease of this newest release, Emmaline, will have everyone taking notice! Are you ready to meet her?

New Release ~ Emmaline

Emmaline is perfect for spring and comes with so many options! Let’s work from the top down, shall we? First of all, there are multiple sleeve lengths. You can choose long sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, short sleeves, or no sleeves. The skirt comes in 3 lengths, top, dress, or maxi. The skirt in dress and maxi lengths also have the option of being a simple skirt, or a color blocked chevron skirt! Cool, right?

One of the BEST things, though, is that it’s compatible with the Clementine, which means you can swap out the sleeves or skirts to make a whole new dress! How exciting is that?!

Tester Photos

As always, we have some super talented testers who killed in this test! Look at some of their absolutely stunning creations below!

We’ll start with the girls. They’re so adorable and the Emmaline is so versatile! Perfect for any child who loves a good twirl!

Even the older girls love Emmaline! And with the right fabrics it can be absolutely stunning as a more formal dress!

And last (but definitely not least!) Let’s talk the ladies version! Oh so pretty! And with all the options you can make so many completely different dresses with the same perfect fit every time!

And we can’t forget one of the best possibilities… Mommy and me sets! I mean, really, how can you not LOVE these?!

Basically, what I’m trying to say is that you don’t want to NOT own this pattern! And you can get it on sale for a limited time! Sale is good until Friday, April 13th at midnight EST. Get the child’s version here for only $6, ladies here for $7, or buy the bundle and save more for those mommy and me creations for only $12!

Also, be sure to join our Facebook community to share your gorgeous creations, get help, and see all of the other amazing BSD sews by talented seamstresses!

New Release: Sahara Top & Dress

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The Sahara: This sophisticated and elegant dress is a must have in your child’s wardrobe. The design features a low scoop front and back; sleeveless, short sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, long sleeves and fully lined bodice. The dress has a full circle skirt that your child will love to twirl in.  The design comes with two lengths; top length (hits at the hips) and dress length (hits just above the knees). It is a perfect dress, for every day and all year round!

You will love it!! The bodice is meant to be quite fitted so it can hold the full circle skirt very well.

New Release: The Sahara Top & Dress

 

Our testers as always did an amazing job! They all worked so hard to make sure the fit was perfect. Check out some of the great Sahara tester photos below:

Sleeveless

The sleeveless Sahara is perfect for warm climates and those with hot summers. Plus, it’s super fashionable!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

Short sleeves

Short sleeves are a year round staple for your child’s wardrobe. Modest and still cool, but easily layered with a cardigan or jacket, it’s perfect for any time.

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

 

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

3/4 sleeves

Like the short sleeves, 3/4 sleeves can work in all kinds of weather. Very nice for early spring and fall weather especially.

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

Long sleeves

Cold weather, here we come! The fully lined bodice and long sleeves will help with warmth in the cooler fall and winter months. Plus, it’s so beautiful.

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

Top Length

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

Dress Length

This length is so perfect for all the girls who love to twirl. And some of our testers got some exceptional action shots! Just look below and be amazed at the twirl and movement these dresses can achieve.

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

Amazing, right? The top can be paired with our Rose bubble shorts, Bow-tie leggings and Sansa Flare pants. Take a look:

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

OMG I love the elegant look of this dress from Bella Sunshine Designs! Perfect for my little ballerina! Must buy this pdf pattern!

 

The Sahara Top & Dress will be on its introductory sale of only $5.50 through Wednesday 15th March at midnight EST, so be sure and pick up your copy if you haven’t already.

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