Emerald is here!
Please welcome my newest pattern, Emerald! This simple yet elegant design was originally released as a dress in Making Magazine in 2019 (read more here), and we’ve worked hard to update it and add it as a standalone pattern to my collection! Now it’s here in an expanded size range that includes eleven sizes, with options to sew a cropped top or a dress length.
About Emerald
Emerald is a simple shift dress or top designed to offer comfort in the summer heat. I envision it with sandals and a hat on hot days, or layered under a warm sweater or cowl as the seasons change and the days turn cool.
The garment is composed of four main panels and is finished with facings, which highlight the elegant V-shaped neckline and curved hem. Pockets or a sash can be added to the dress version (optional).
For maximum comfort and wearability, choose lightweight fabrics with drape to allow the bias-cut design to conform to your body. The center seam allows for some fun pattern play if you use striped or patterned fabric, or becomes a beautiful design feature on a simple solid fabric.
Size Range
Emerald is our available in eleven sizes, xxs-xl & plus sizes 1-5. We recommend selecting your size using your upper bust measurement. Size charts can be found in the shop, or on the Emerald Page.
PATTERN FEATURES
Two length options
Emerald can be made as a mid-calf shift dress or as a cropped top. The pattern was drafted for a height of 5’6,” and I've also included clear instructions on how to adjust the length of the pattern, because every body is different!
Facings & cap sleeve
This pattern incorporates wide facings at the neckline, armholes, and hem, which are held in place with visible top stitching that lends itself to the unique design of this garment. The sleeve facing shapes the shoulder and gives Emerald its signature cap sleeve without an additional sleeve piece.
Bias Cut Design
The four main panels (front and back) of Emerald are bias cut, which means that the pattern pieces are laid out out diagonally relative to the grain line of the fabric before cutting. This allows the diagonal stretch of the fabric to create shaping and ease, as well as a fun visual effect along the center seam if you’re using a striped or patterned fabric.
Pockets & sash
The dress length features side-seam pockets and an optional sash (photos of the sash to come).
Skill level: Intermediate
Cutting/sewing on the bias and working with facings can be somewhat tricky, so I’ve decided to designate Emerald as an intermediate skill level pattern rather than a beginner pattern.
It is definitely possible to cut the pattern out on the grain, and I’ve included some notes about this in the introductory section of the pattern to help you decide when this might be a good option for you. (Hint: some great fabrics for on-grain can include double gauze, fabrics with drape like tencel and rayon, and fabrics that have a bit of stretch).
Print-at-home and copyshop files (layers included)
Emerald is currently available as a digital sewing pattern. Your download link will include instructions, print-at-home pattern pieces, and copy shop files (in both A0 and US formats), just like the rest of my digital patterns for adults.
With this pattern, we’ve also included layers for all sizes in all of the pattern piece formats. You can access those layers through the layers menu using Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Yardage and Materials
I’ve put together an Emerald Page where you can find all of the blog posts and resources related to this pattern, plus all the charts for sizes, finished measurements, yardage, and recommended fabrics.
Metric measurements are included in all charts, and throughout the pattern pattern.
For Making customers
If you previously purchased Making Magazine’s Desert issue and the pattern does not include your size, please reach out through my contact form. We ask you that you provide a photo of your magazine to verify your purchase (note: you can’t upload photos through the contact form, but just send us a quick note anyway; we’ll reply back, and then you can send us a pic!)
Share your photos!
I’d love to see your Emerald tops and dresses!! Remember to tag me (@madebyrae) so I can see what you've made with this pattern, and use these hashtags so we can find your pics:
#mbremerald | #madebyrae | #raemademedoit
We also have a Made by Rae group on Facebook, so if you’d like to be a part of the sewing community and discussions there, please request to join!