Cranberry Christmas dress

I finally got some pictures of a dress I made last month for Christmas (taken in our bleak and uninspiring backyard, but we're low on breathtaking backdrops right now). ;-) I used the Sense & Sensibility Swing Dress E-Pattern, making it up with a cranberry wool crepe that was in my stash. My first experience with an E-pattern was pleasant -- instant gratification! Cheaper price! Unfortunately the pattern gave me some trouble because of the intense frustration I experienced with the neckline facing (a common problem with the pattern, based on other comments on the S&S message board). I simply could not get it to work, and ended up cutting off part of the bodice so that the gathers extend all the way to the neckline (which my hair conveniently covers in the photo, anyway). So beginning sewers, be warned!

This month I will be quite busy with sewing -- I am making several costumes for a production of The Marriage of Figaro at the small private college where my husband works part-time. Should be fun!