craftgrrl | Lions and Tigers and Bears

My mother-in-law recently bought me my first sewing machine for my birthday. I've sewn a few things by hand before, with no training or instruction, but never with a machine. I was given a pattern and fabric by my mother years and years ago. I read my instruction manual and gave it a shot...

I cut out the pattern pieces and began sewing them together. I've seen people talking here before about things being "lined"...? So I tore up an old bed sheet, doubled the pattern and sewed it on the inside. I guess that's a lining. I mean... I'd assume.

This is the front of the top of the dress.

This is the back of the top of the dress.

When making my first button hole, I got nervous and terminated too soon.
BUT IT STILL WORKS! And that's what is important, I think.

I did not line the skirt. I made it for a 2 year old. But I decided to "pleat" it?
I think that's what it's called when you sew those folds into it.

But I did put two little lined pockets on it. She *LOVES* them!!!

This is my niece, Lucy. The dress is a little big on her, but I did that so it would fit perfectly come spring.

She loved it so much that she cried when she had to take it off!!! Aww!
So - this was my first ever sewing project. I made it in about 4 hours, spread out over 2 days - so things got a little sloppy. Anyways - now I'm rambling. Ta!