Oliver + S Puppet Show Dress
August 24, 2008

by April Henry

Have any of you heard of a "Deltor" before? Well, back in 1920 it was the name for the first pattern instruction sheet for 'home-sewists' (versus the tailors and professional sewists) which was included in the mass-marketed dress patterns. It was revolutionary to the pattern industry and all the other major pattern companies found ways to follow suit.

Anyway, my point is this: I think the Oliver + S patterns are the 'Deltor' of today. They are clear and concise, the presentation and marketing are brilliant, not to mention flawlessly beautiful - is it any wonder a unique and special boutique children's garment is the finished result? I think not. Even the designer's instructions have twists and turns at constructing the garment that allow for perfect seaming and 'pretty' sewing.

This is the Puppet Show Dress ~ made in a size 3-4 for width and size 5 for length (yes, my little one is tall and thin). It's still quite hot here and remains nicely warm through September and beginning of October (it was 100 degrees today). A short-sleeved school dress will get lots of wear. The fabric I chose lends itself to late summer/early fall with the color scheme . . . from American Jane Wee Play by Moda.