Please note: This PDF sewing pattern uses zero waste pattern cutting and comprises of instructions to draw shapes directly onto your fabric. With the exception of some small printable templates, there are no large pattern pieces to print out and tape together. The cutting plan/templates document for the ZW Gather Dress requires printing of 5-6 pages in A4/US Letter Paper. 

*This pattern is for personal and non-profit use only and should not be used for commercial purposes in any way.

The Method

Zero waste pattern cutting is a bit like a puzzle. It is a method of pattern drafting where you utilise a length of fabric end to end by strategically planning your pattern pieces so that everything is used. This pattern does not require printing of large pattern pieces, instead you draw your pattern pieces directly onto your fabric with the aid of a cutting plan and templates. We love working with this method for 3 reasons:

1. More flexibility: This method allows for easy changes such as using different fabric widths and making simple fit and design changes yourself. Using patterns that fit into a zero waste square or rectangular block is a very efficient way to work. It means that it is easier to patchwork together remnants or use left over fabrics you already have lying around.

2. An easy way to learn to self draft your own patterns : Working this way will help you to start building a toolbox of skills, and you will learn an alternative method of self drafting your own sewing patterns, which are super easy for beginners to understand.

3. Less fabric and paper waste: Without having to print full scale paper patterns for all pieces you save on a lot of paper, and you will have little to no fabric waste during the cutting and sewing process!

Description

Sewing Level: Advanced Beginner

This is an oversized dress with a dropped shoulder, gathered skirt, side pockets and full length button placket with buttons and button holes. Can be worn as a dress or an open jacket. The skirt seam is designed to sit over the bust. Lengths of bodice and skirt are easily adjustable to your preference. The width of the garment is variable depending on the fabric width you use. Comes with 2 simple hack options, one of which does not require buttons or button holes.

Recommended Tools

Sewing machine, iron, chalk or dissolvable pen, scissors, large right angle ruler and/or long straight ruler.

Techniques used

Button holes, gathers and in-seam pockets.

PDF Pattern/Instruction Booklet: Includes measurements in both metric (centimetres) and US imperial (inches). Booklet/Templates are printable on both A4 or US Letter Paper size. 

Size Chart

Suitable for a bust measurement of up to 156cm / 61".

This is an oversized ONE SIZE style that comes with 2 size options, a size ONE and a size TWO. Choose which layout to use based on your size and fabric width. 

Fabric + Notions

Fabric Type

Ideal in a woven linen or cotton with a weight of approx 150-200gsm. Choose something with a bit of drape and something that is not too thick as the gathers can add a lot of fullness.

Size One

Recommended Widths: 125cm - 155cm / 49 - 61 inches

Yardage required: 260cm / 102 1/4 inches ( approx 2.85 yards)

Notions: Requires 9 buttons (depending on your chosen garment size) approx 12mm  /  1/2 inch in size. It is also optional to use a lightweight fusing for the neck band, this is only recommended for very fine fabrics.

Size Two

Recommended Widths: 110cm - 145cm / 43 – 57 inches

Yardage required: 394.5cm / 155 1/2 inches 

Notions: Requires 9 buttons (depending on your chosen garment size) approx 12mm  /  1/2 inch in size. It is also optional to use a lightweight fusing for the neck band, this is only recommended for very fine fabrics.

Helpful Links + Tutorials

Explore other makes on insta #zwgatherdress

How to sew inseam pockets in the ZW Gather Dress - Updated Tutorial

SLEEVELESS HACK

FINISHING THE UNDER-ARM NEATLY

FINISHING SEAMS NEATLY

(VERY) GATHERED SLEEVE HACK FOR ZW CROPPED SHIRT OR ZW GATHER DRESS

HOW TO SEW FACINGS INTO THE ZW CROPPED SHIRT AND ZW GATHER DRESS

HOW TO SEW THE NECK BAND ONTO THE ZW GATHER DRESS AND ZW CROPPED SHIRT