Tuesday's Tute: Knit Dress Upcycle for Me

        The first photo is the full-length hooded dress I started with.  The second photo is my new dress.                               

A couple of weeks ago I was in the thrift store browsing for fun knit dresses to rework.  I really wanted a dress or two for vacation.  I found this gem for $2.  It was full length with a hood.  I'm not a hoodie fan.  I asked my husband if the color was good prior to cutting it.  He like the color but thought it odd that I'd buy a hooded nightgown and wasn't at all thrilled with the thing.  I reassured him that it would be a much different looking dress in a few minutes.  Yes, it took me less than 30 minutes to change this one.  Knit is so much fun.

Materials:
Knit Dress with extra length
Ball Point Needle (for sewing w/knits)

Directions:
1. Cut the hood off so that it left no trace. 
2. Cut the length to the knee. (or where ever you want it to be)  I didn't hem it as it cut off nice and straight. 
3. Cut several 1" strips from the left over length for the ruffles.
4. Gather the ruffles down the middle. Follow the "Gather" link to our amazing gathering short cut.

5. Beginning at one shoulder seam, using a 2x2 zigzag stitch, stitch ruffles along the neckline. Turn the corner at the other shoulder and continue stitching down the ruffles.  Turn again just above the bust line and finish in a similar spot on the other side.  The ruffle detail can really be placed any way you'd like.  (Remember: knit needs to edge finish, so these ruffles are quite easy to do.)
I'd love to see what you do with knits for your family.  Send me pictures.
Happy Sewing!
Debbie