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You know how it's always said that once you've learned to ride a bicycle no matter how long it's been it will all come back to you once you remount a bicycle.  Well evidently sewing a child's dress doesn't work that way.

My granddaughter's latest love is Minnie Mouse.  After looking at some dresses online I decided that I could make her one that looked just as good and it would cost me way less than the $50.00 and up price that was being asked.  Then I got the bright idea that I'd make a matching doll dress.

After purchasing all the supplies that I thought I'd need, I started by cutting the dress out.  With the instructions spread out in front of me and carefully reading the first step, I begin basting and sewing.  Now mind you, I'm not a rookie at making children clothes.  Oh so many years ago I sewed most all of my daughters clothes up until she didn't want to wear home made clothes to school.  I don't know who writes these instructions but if I hadn't had years of experience I wouldn't have known heads or tails about what I was expected to do.

It took me 3 tries before I got the top of the dress and collar to suit me.   That didn't mean I was just taking stitches out and making adjustments.  No, I was completely starting from scratch.  After that section though the sleeves and skirt seemed easy except when I got to putting in the placket on the skirt.  How could one little curve be so difficult.  Thankfully I didn't mess it up to the extent that I had to start at the beginning and cut out the skirt all over again.

After many days and several trips to purchase supplies, the dress was completed except for the button holes.  I was so afraid that I would mess the whole dress up when I attempted the buttonholes.  I practiced, practiced and practiced.  Feeling half way confident that I could pull the botton hole making off, I fearfully begin.  Three went fairly well but the fourth was hard fought.  At least they serve the purpose.  I just hope they aren't inspected to closely.

After that struggle, the doll's dress went quickly (Hey, maybe those skills can resurface).  The little quilted tote bag was a breeze because I've been making several of these over the past few years.  So after I don't know how many hours this little project is complete and I can stand back and admire my handy work!  Which brings to mind the Churchhill quote "Never give up, never give up, never give up"!