If you sew dresses for children (your own, or others), then these are two patterns for girls that you need to have in your life. Honestly, I reach for these two sewing patterns for my girls all the time and they are just worth their weight in gold. So if you’re like me- carefully balancing wanting to be ‘that’ Mum who makes their kids’ dresses, with never being prepared enough to do things without a last minute panic sew, then you’re going to love these sewing patterns for girls.
Just a heads-up: some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click and buy, I might earn a little commission– but don’t worry, it doesn’t cost you anything extra. And as always, I only share my genuine opinion.
Sewing My Girls’ Dresses- A Little Tradition I’m Trying to Keep
So, my youngest daughter’s first birthday is coming up and as a little tradition, I always try to sew my girls a dress for their first birthdays. I say ‘always’ but I’ve only ever done it once before for my eldest. Even though life is a lot more hectic now, I already feel guilty if I don’t try to do the same for my youngest. It only feels fair to try to keep the tradition going!
I think part of the reason I’m always last minute with these projects is because sewing for kids is so forgiving. The pieces are small, the cuts are quick, and things come together super fast. But what makes it even easier, is having go-to sewing patterns for girls that you don’t have to fuss over/spend ages searching for. And I’ve got two sewing patterns for girls to share with you today: The Geranium Dress by Made by Rae and the Building Block Dress by Liesl + Co.
1. The Geranium Dress Pattern by Made by Rae
Let me introduce you to one of the most popular girls’ sewing patterns: the Geranium Dress by Made by Rae. If you’ve ever searched “sewing pattern for girls” on Instagram or Pinterest, I guarantee you’ve seen this dress floating around. And trust me, it’s everywhere for a reason.
Difficulty: Beginner/Confident beginner
Sizes: 0-5 years or 6-12 years (sold as separate patterns)
Type: PDF
It’s a classic dress with a slightly empire waistline. Super sweet and quick to sew up with fastenings at the back. The basic pattern will get you a dress (or top) with flutter or faux cap sleeves, with a gathered or pleated skirt. There are two necklines- one plain and one with a cute notch detail.
The original pattern is fab on its own, but the extension pack (from $10 for each group size or buy as a full bundle including the main pattern for $30) is really worth the upgrade. Sleeves, collars, different bodices- it’s all in there. You can make a bunch of dresses from this one pattern, and they all come out looking totally different depending on what tweaks or fabrics you use.
I’ve made so many of these, I’ve lost count. And I keep my printed sizes on hand so I can just grab and go. Perfect for those “oops-I-forgot-about-the-party-this-weekend” moments (which, let’s be honest- happens far too much in this house!)
2. The Building Block Dress Book by Liesl + Co.
Now, let’s talk about the Building Block Dress Book. I love a good book because they’re often filled with extra info and tips, and sometimes you just want a physical book, right? Plus this one comes with the pattern printed so you just need to trace it out (no print and stick in sight. Phew! Time saver!)
Difficulty: Beginner/ Confident beginner
Sizes: 6 months – 12 years
This book is great. It starts with a basic A-line dress pattern and walks you through all the different ways to tweak it. Fancy a gathered skirt? Shift dress? Peter Pan collar? Pockets, plackets, sleeves, linings- it’s all in there with lovely, clear diagrams and instructions. I made this lined shift dress using fabric from Bangladesh for my eldest when she was little.
It covers sizes from 6 months up to 12 years, so again, it grows with your child. The best part? It’s not just great for kids, you can actually transfer over a lot of the pattern hacking/drafting to adult garments too. 2 in 1, what’s not to love?
Why I Recommend These
Like most of us, I’m rushed off my feet- sewing time is precious and rare. I definitely don’t have the patience to start from scratch every time I want to make a little dress. That’s why I always reach for these two resources. Having a trusty sewing pattern for girls that you know will fit well and come together quickly? Priceless.
Plus, every time you sew one, thanks to the fabric, the details, and the little tweaks you make along the way- it turns out different. You’ll never get bored.
So, if you’re sewing for the little ones in your life (or thinking about it), just do yourself a favour and get at least one of these two patterns:
They’ve saved me time, stress, and last-minute meltdowns more times than I can count. And they’ve helped me keep a really special tradition alive for my girls.
Have you tried either of these? Let me know! And if you’ve got a favorite sewing pattern for girls, I’m always looking for recommendations!
love,
Think we all need to take a minute for your daughter’s epic footwear! Dresses are adorable too. Will take a look at the geranium as I’ve got some special liberty fabric that I want to make a dress from.
Ahh I loved those shoes on her! The Geranium dress and Liberty fabric are a match made in heaven!