McCalls 8138 Dress - Dressed by Ava

This McCall’s 8138 red velvet dress is oh-so-special to me!

I had the great honour of being featured in issue 99 of the Love Sewing magazine, where I was the reader reviewer for this issue’s McCall’s 8138 pattern. You can read all about my pattern review and the modifications I made in the magazine, however, I do want to go in more depth about the gorgeous velvet fabric that I was gifted from Minerva.

I used the deluxe velvet stretch knit fabric in colour Bordeaux, which was the perfect shade of dark red. Bright and vivid, yet just dark enough that makes it lovely for an evening wear, which was what I intended this dress to be for.

I was looking for a classic velvet knit that had the right amount of weight for a fall-winter dress, without being too heavy. Moreover, it was important to me that the fabric had a nice drape (as the dress is flared). I could not have picked a more fabulous velvet knit. The material is so very soft and luxurious to touch. The sheen is so stunning in person, and I honestly don’t see the camera doing the iridescence look of the fabric justice. The look and feel of this fabric was 10/10 and the sewing process was just a dream. I highly recommend it if you are looking for a classic velvet fabric to go with a holiday glam look.

One thing to note though, be careful when ironing a velvet fabric (if ever needed), as high heat can stain the fabric. So use low temperature on the wrong side of the fabric or place an organza or another appropriate fabric layer in between the iron and right side of fabric to be safe.

Overall, this has been such a surreal experience for me to be published in the UK’s #1 sewing magazine. So honoured and grateful for this incredible opportunity, thanks to Bethany, the Senior Editor at the Love Sewing magazine and Minerva for gifting me this beautiful fabric.

I hope you enjoyed reading about this special dress of mine!

Blessings,
Ava