The red gingham bias binding for the armholes adds a perfect contrasting balance to the top of the dress.
Ever since learning about the Little Dresses for Africa, I’ve been intrigued by the pillowcase dresses. A ” blank canvas” sort of pattern has always appealed to me, but very few styles offer as many opportunities for creativity as does the simple pillowcase dress. The pattern is a free download.
Made by my Puerto Rican friend and former student Haydee, this sweet little ladybug delight is probably destined for a granddaughter rather than for Africa. But it certainly shows the pattern’s potential, as well as just how much punch my Puerto Rican friend Haydee can add. She is especially gifted when combining fabric and color, particularly in applique’.
She always adds one or more Haydee touches to her creations. I absolutely love the way she coordinated the ladybug’s bow with the yellow shoulder ties, and the little girl’s red and black polka dotted hair bow with the hem and ladybug fabric. Then when I saw those baby ladybugs creeping along the rick rack, I heard almost out loud, the sing song nursery rhyme…
Ladybug! Ladybug!
Fly away home.
Your house is on fire.
And your children all gone.
All except one,
And that’s little Ann,
For she crept under
The frying pan.
Every little girl should have some fantasy in their lives. All the dresses I have seen for the African project go way beyond the basic pillowcase. Those of us who sew simply cannot restrain the urge to stitch something needful into something wonderful.
Haydee’s dress has given me even more inspiration and enthusiasm for this worthy project. I can’t wait to make my next one! Thanks for sharing, Haydee.
