Shaker Bow Hack {Gia}
The new Gia pattern that released during the February sale has me smitten. That sweet bow front bodice and twirly tiered skirt is the perfect girly-girl dress and a must have for Valentines day sewing.
My youngest daughter is obsessed with sparkles. So, I decided to create a Gia dress full of fun, sparkly sequins for her to wear to her school party. I used tulle to create a “shaker bow” bodice. Here’s how you can recreate this look.
First, cut 2 layers of tulle for all of your bow pieces (vertical bow strips, horizontal bow strip, and bow tie pieces). I highly recommend using 2 layers of tulle in case one of the layers gets snagged, the sequins fall out. The tulle I chose was white to match the white main fabric I used. Next, you will lay your tulle on the right side of your main bow pieces. Sew the vertical bow strips to your top and bottom bodice pieces according to the pattern instructions. You can use a smaller stitch length to make sure the tulle is really secure.
For the bow tie pieces you will have 2 layers of tulle for each side of each bow tie piece if you want sequins on both sides of your finished bow. Before attaching the bow tie pieces to the bodice you will fill the space between the tulle and main fabric with your sequins. You can use a small funnel or roll up some paper to make a tube. Do not overfill the space. You want the sequins to be able to move around. Sew the bow tie pieces to the bodice according to the pattern tutorial.
Once you have your bodice main front sewn, fill the spaces of your vertical and horizontal bow strips. Baste the raw edges to keep the sequins from falling out while you attach your lining and finish sewing your bodice together.
When you are finished sewing your Gia top or dress and are ready to tie the bow, I recommend moving the sequins out of the bow knot areas to reduce bulk.
You are done and now you have a super unique and fun shaker bow Gia top or dress!
Happy sewing,
Chauncey Williams
