THE PLAN / McCall's M5094

I have officially started my first venture into garment sewing and it's been a little bumpy so far.  But  I wanted to present you with the plan before I got too far into this dress (I'm starting the bodice as soon as I finish this post!). 

After doing a TON of research on sewing forums, I was pointed in the direction of McCall's M5094 for a good beginner's dress in the shape I like. It's fairly basic, but does have a cute little back detail.  In order to not take on too much, I opted to work with the fabric I am most familiar with, quilting weight cotton.  I loved the idea of a paisley (an idea I have been obsessed with since the multitude of paisley dresses J. Crew did a year or so ago, like this one).  Amy Butler's Flora in Fountain (purchased on clearance here) seemed to fit the bill beautifully.  Keep in mind the scale in the above graphic is totally off.  It's a much smaller scale print.  The print is busy enough that it will help hide any minor mistakes or wonky sewing and help gives the simple dress a little more impact.

I've decided to make some alterations.  You can see those listed in the diagram above.  I sewed the skirt last night and while that beautiful midi length skirt looks gorgeous and vintage on a tall model, it makes my 5'2 frame look really stumpy.  So I'll be hacking that off.

I've already made one decently large rookie mistake.  First tip, ALWAYS READ THE DIRECTIONS THROUGH BEFORE CUTTING.  Yea, I cut a major piece incorrectly.  It's savable, but it will slightly affect the look of the end result. 

I can't wait to show you the finish product!  I'm hoping to wear it for a bridal shower I am hosting next month (finger's crossed that it's finished and looks OK).  Are you working on any new sewing projects?  Any tips for working with patterns?  Please share!