Hello Sewists! I am delighted to announce that I have been asked to be part of the Minerva Makes Team! How excited to be able to showcase my makes on their wonderful new website. For my first project on Minerva, I decided to pick the medium weight Textured Woven Jaquard Fabric in Mint colour! I immediately fell in love with the astonishing tropical pattern with green palm leaves. The fabric was a bit heavier than I imagined, but actually perfect as a Spring—Autumn dress for the mid seasons.

The sewing pattern I selected is called Heidi by Sew Over It. It comes with the Lisa Comfort magazine (issue 4) where Lisa explains how to make this beautiful wrap dress step by step. Everything from the front bodice, to the attaching yoke and how to create ties and the waistband is covered. The pattern comes in three styles. I decided to make the maxi version by adding extra length with a simple frill at the bottom. It is easy to follow Lisa’s instructions as the article comes with great photos. It is a perfect project for beginner/intermediate that will still stretch and challenge you.

My original plan after creating the dress, was to take photos wearing it at Kew Gardens in the Palm House to compliment the tropical patterns. But due to the second lockdown in England, we had to opt for an outside space. My husband had the fantastic idea to go to the Bamboo Garden at Kew where we took the shots that you see here. We were also blessed with the weather as it was sunny autumn day.

So, what do you think?

Doesn’t it look like I am the Queen of this Japanese farmhouse? (Minka House) The dress feels so comfy and doesn’t look that heavy either. The maxi style that I went for was the perfect choice for this fabric. I can’t wait to go back to Kew Gardens and take some new photos when the glasshouses reopen!

To compliment the tropical theme, my talented friend, Chloe made Jesmonite earrings inspired by the pattern of the fabric. You can check out her products at Fleck.