Available exclusively to our on-line readers, this exquisitely smocked and embroidered bishop dress can be completed from our instructions. We give you fabric requirements, size dimensions and armhole curve template for sizes 1, 2, 3 & 4, and 5 & 6, downloadable embroidery designs, smocking graph and pleating instructions, as well as construction information.



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Brittany's Bishop Dress
By Janice Ferguson
This project is recommended for intermediate skill levels and those who have constructed at least one bishop dress.

Brittany's Bishop Dress in cotton batiste features a Madeira appliqué hem and machine embroidered embellishments. With the exception of the hand-stitched English smocking, this garment was constructed, embroidered and embellished on the Brother Pacesetter 8500. Instructions for cutting and constructing the dress, as well as the smocking design and armhole template, are included. Three hoop embroidery design files may be downloaded. The files are Sleeve.pes Skirt.pes and Anglwing.pes.

The smocked bishop dress is a classic garment, with patterns dating back to the late 1800s. Its longevity and popularity are due to the comfortable fit, the long period of time one size will fit a child, the simple construction and the ease and unlimited possibilities for variation.

Brittany's Bishop Dress includes many variations on the basic pattern. The angel wing ruffle over the sleeve and Madeira appliqué hem add other interesting components to the overall design. The adjusted machine feather stitch and pinstitch embellishments contribute to the heirloom look of the garment.

But the feature which gives this dress its greatest merit is the hand-stitched look of the hoop embroidered flowerettes. Designed by Suzanne Sawko, these tiny flowerettes would be a lovely addition to any garment.

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