Pattern
The Pepper Dress by Violette Field Threads was modified to fit the rectangular "Little Miss Preschool Cutie" panel. I wanted the preschool panel to be as wide as the neckline and almost as high as the finished bodice. I used these calculations to modify the neckline to be squared off instead of rounded.
Not seen in the photo is the reversible nature of the preschool panel. One side said "Little Miss Preschool Cutie", while the other featured the little one's monogram in an apple frame :)
In order to make the preschool panel, I determined the desired size of my finished panel. I then used my embroidery machine to embroider the panel. After embroidery, I cut the fabric down to the desired size PLUS 1" in width and length. Doing this gave me a 0.5" seam allowance to work with.
I think embroidery the monogram apple panel, and cut the panel to the same size. With right side together, I sewed the two panels together leaving a small gap for turning. After turning right side out, I ironed it flat, added trim around the edges, and button holes making the panel reversible!
A double layer skirt was created by cutting the top skirt at top length according to pattern directions, and the under skirt at dress length.
Fabric
Riley Blake produces the most fun and whimsical collections with a complete set of coordinates! I love how having a large selection of coordinates makes fabric matching so easy! For this dress, I chose to feature the nursery rhyme main fabric and accented it with the books. A cute and colorful crayon seasonal ribbon from Hobby Lobby provided the perfect finishing touch :)