Turn and press a 1/4-inch hem at each cuff, and along the neckline. Stitch these hems in place.
Divide the dress top pieces into two pairs. With right sides together, stitch the chest seam; connecting each pair to create one front piece and one back piece. Backstitch at each end. Press the seam to one side. Set aside.
DRESS SKIRT
Pin and stitch a 1/4-inch hem along one edge of the skirt pieces. If you are using fabric with a definite direction to the print, be sure to stitch the hem along the bottom edge of both skirt pieces so that they match.
Pick up one of your dress skirt pieces. With the wrong side facing up, mark the following measurements along the top edge (the edge opposite the hem): 2.25", 2.75", 3.25", 3.75", 4.25".
Create the skirt pleat by folding the outside marks (2.25" and 4.25") towards the center. Pin in place. Repeat for second skirt piece.
Sew a 1/4-inch seam along the top of the skirt pieces to capture the pleat, then lightly press the folds.
ASSEMBLE TOP AND SKIRT PIECES
Pin together one dress top pair with one skirt piece, as shown above. Stitch a 1/4-inch seam across the waist, the press the seam toward the skirt. Repeat with the second skirt piece and dress top pair.
Now pin the front and back dress pieces right sides together, from the shoulder to the cuff. Sew a 1/4-inch seam along the shoulder and arm, backstitching at each end.
Next, pin the right and left side seams. Stitch along the side seam, turning at the top of the skirt and stitching the underside of the sleeve. Remember to backstitch at both ends. Repeat for the other side. Snip a V at each armpit to ease the fabric. Don't snip the stitches, just the fabric!
Turn the dress right side out and press it to smooth. Try it on your Purl Rabbit Doll and have fun!
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