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Check it out: Shiny Happy World online sewing school

January 8, 2011 by Anne Weaver

Wendi Gratz from Shiny Happy World announces her new online sewing school aimed at beginning sewists of all ages.  She already has a number of tutorials and free patterns on her site, but her new publishing schedule is taking it to a whole new level.  Each week, she’ll provide a mix of video tutorials for both sewing and embroidery, as well as downloadable projects (some free, some for sale) that will help you practice those new skills.

Each day of the week brings a different type of content or project.  For example, on Mondays she’ll post a free sewing video tutorial.  On Tuesdays she’ll have a downloadable sewing project (free or for sale).  Wednesdays bring additional content (book review, a post to an inspiring project, etc.), while Thursdays bring a free embroidery video tutorial and Friday an embroidery pattern.

All sewing and embroidery patterns will only use skills that have been taught on the site, building your skill set from week to week.  The projects will start off fairly simple, and then build to more complex projects as you acquire more skills.  And because Wendi is an equal opportunity sewist, she promises to include plenty of projects that appeal to boys.

Sound exciting or what?  Head over to Shiny Happy World to check it out.

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Comments

  1. patricia spring says

    December 21, 2011 at 4:57 am

    I absolutely love your tutorials on you tube. They are so informative and you make the stitches look so easy. I can’t believe how much I have learned just watching the ones I have watched. Thank you so much.

  2. patricia spring says

    December 21, 2011 at 5:00 am

    Can you recommend a book on embroidery that makes it look at easy as you do. I would like a book that explains the stitches in laymens terms. I am interested in learning to do embroidery but don’t have anyone to show me how. Any suggestions.

    • anneweaver says

      December 22, 2011 at 7:17 am

      Patricia, I don’t know offhand the right book to recommend, but you might try contacting Wendi Gratz from Shiny Happy World and seeing if she has any suggestions. You should also check out our Needlework area of Craft Gossip. Denise, our Needlework editor, posts links to how-to’s and inspiring embroidery projects. –Anne

Have you read?

15 Drop Waist Dress Sewing Patterns You’ll Want to Try

If you’re craving a fresh silhouette to sew, something a little different from your usual fit-and-flare or shift dress—let us introduce (or reintroduce) you to the timeless drop waist dress. This unique cut drops the waistline down to the hips (or just above), creating a relaxed, easy-going shape that feels both vintage-inspired and modern at the same time.

Popularized in the 1920s and adored by fashionistas ever since, the drop waist dress is having a quiet comeback in cottagecore, minimalist, and chic summer styles. And the best part? It’s incredibly comfortable — especially for those days when you want to wear something loose yet put-together.

Wondering if a drop waist style will suit you? It tends to flatter longer torsos, straight body types, and taller frames beautifully — the lowered waistline elongates the body and gives a more casual, laid-back vibe. But that doesn’t mean others can’t pull it off! A well-placed ruffle, a tiered skirt, or a structured bodice can create a balanced look on all body types. Plus, drop waist dresses look adorable on kids and are easy to layer in cooler months.

In this roundup, you’ll find 15 stunning drop waist dress patterns and tutorials — from free PDF downloads to full video sew-alongs. There are floaty ruffle-hem sundresses, sleeveless styles perfect for summer, structured options with corset details, and even cottagecore-ready looks that feel straight out of a dreamy picnic. Whether you’re looking for casual weekend wear or a fun dressy project, there’s something here you’ll want to sew immediately.

How to Draft a Drop-Waist Dress 

Sleeveless Ruffle Summer Dress Drop Waist

Cozette Dress Sewing Pattern

DROP WAIST DRESS SEWING TUTORIAL/PATTERN 

making a drop waist corset style dress [SEWING TUTORIAL]

Julie drop waist dress – free PDF sewing pattern – Tiana’s Closet 

Free sewing pattern: Half sleeve drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet

Drop Waist Ruffle dress

A little twist to the drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet 

Free PDF sewing pattern: Sleeveless drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet

DROP-WAIST DRESS • PATTERN SCISSORS FROCK

How to Sew a Drop Waist Dress | Banksia Sewalong

Lined Drop Waist Dress Sewing Tutorial

The drop waist dress might not be your go-to silhouette (yet), but once you try sewing one, don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your handmade wardrobe. They’re fun to make, comfy to wear, and a great excuse to play with a different shape.

As someone with a pear-shaped figure, I personally love how drop waist dresses highlight my slimmer upper body and waist while skimming gently over the hips. It’s one of those rare styles that actually makes me feel both comfortable and confident — no tugging, no clinging, just effortless style that lets my “skinny bits” shine.

From ruffled hems to cottagecore charm, there’s a drop waist pattern in this list that’s bound to suit your body and your sewing vibe. So go ahead — pick your favorite, dig into that fabric stash, and start stitching your new go-to dress today!

Let me know which one you’re trying first — I love seeing your makes!

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