Alder Shirtdress

—by Heather

Home sewists far and wide had reason to celebrate this summer when Jen Beeman of Grainline Studio announced the release of her first paper pattern, the Alder Shirtdress. (Previous patterns have been available as PDF downloads). Using the most excellent sew-along Jen provided on the Grainline blog, I made this sample for the store in a sweet plum-colored dotty chambray.

I cannot say enough good things about this pattern and Jen’s detailed and clear sew-along instructions. I thoroughly enjoyed the process of creating this garment and am thrilled with the result. Although our sunny days are numbered in this region, I expect this dress will be tremendously versatile through the seasons. Imagine how stylish it would look layered over a turtle-neck and worn with boots. Or use one of the lovely new silks to make the gathered version for dressing up with a cardigan and heels through fall and winter.

In addition to the original Alder, Jen has provided tutorials online for variations on the collar and neckline and also a longsleeved version—a hybrid of the Alder Shirtdress and the Archer Button-Up (soon to be offered as a paper pattern). Also keep and eye out a paper version of the Scout Tee.

Three cheers for Grainline Studio!

Update: Paper versions of both the Archer Button-Up and the Scout Tee are in the store now!