Things you can do with a Scarf

I rarely find rayon at JoAnn Fabrics.  When I do, they are generally prints that do not interest me.

But I did happen upon this floral rayon twill as I was feeling my way down the fabric aisles a couple of years ago - and it is always exciting to feel something other than polyester.  The large abstract floral was just my style!  Unfortunately, the fabric was bordered by a brown design and stopped after approximately 40" with a bunch of white and a dotted line.  What the heck!?

Turns out, the yardage was printed as a scarf design.  The dotted lines and white portions of the fabric, I suppose, would be hemmed out of sight.

Not to be deterred, I bought three sections of “scarf” and hoped I could find a suitable pattern.

The 1940s seemed like a great place to start, given the fabric rationing that dress designers were working with.

Although I was unable to cut completely around the brown and tan border, I incorporated it all on one side of the dress so it would look like part of the design.

This is, without a doubt, the most worn self-made garment I have in my closet.  It has been in rotation quite a while now, and is beginning to show signs of wear (there is a small pull in the skirt) but I am not going to give it up just yet.

I wish I could find another rayon, silk, or wool with a similar print (without the border)!  Because, to be honest, that is my favorite thing about the frock!

Dress:  Made by me, Butterick 5281

Shoes:  Banana Republic