OMGoodness...I'm going "Advanced Post" to see all I type to this thread!

Look out hun...Help is on the way!

I'm looking at your original choice and your McCall's pattern choice and believe it or not there is not that much difference between "THEE" and the McCall's pattern. Matter of fact, it wouldn't surprise me if the McCall's pattern didn't include different options of the same style dress (though I didn't search the entire site).

*BEEP BEEP...backing the truck up here*

Liz...I used to work for a costume shop where I made numerous Renaissance dresses in my day. Combining satin brocade and velveteen (or mohair...longer nap) textiles takes patience and, if you are using a home machine, lots of pins! Just BE SURE to pin where the pin holes can't be seen (inside the seam allowance)...to sew as if you'll HAVE to take the stitches out so that it can be taken in over previous sew lines...and if at all possible, try it on "pinned" before you sew! That means the bodice separate from the skirt!

Inserting a zipper (easier access than the truely oldtime ways) will be one of the most difficult parts to this dress. You'll want an invisible zipper...one sewn in so that it can't be detected when the dress is on. And...you'll want it long enough to go past the waist. If your pattern doesn't include a zipper insertion...PLEASE talk to me and others that you know who have altered a pattern before trying this.

I don't even know your sewing experience! Tell me a bit about it...ok? You can PM me ANYTIME...and I'll get back to you ASAP! Post anything here too...cause I am glued to this thread till fruition!

P.S. Reconsider taking on this task if you can. You have so much to think about at this time and handling a project of this size might send you screaming! Pardon my frankness...I don't know your wedding date and you may have the time to handle this...but I am just trying to help in ANY WAY I CAN!!!!

Any question you have...I'll try to answer or I'll get the answer for you!

P.P.S. I now work in the upholstery business and see gorgeous brocade all the time. The costume shop I used to work for would get end bolts of mohair, brocade, satin and such from upholstery shops, for their gowns. Just a thought!

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