Sew a Stunning Black and White Color Block Caftan
Caftans are a classic garment that fits like a maxi dress but also features large comfortable sleeves that make it perfectly flattering for any size figure.
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Color Block Caftan
When I worked in the lingerie industry, the caftan was a standard garment. Each collection we created had at least one or two of them included. They were big sellers, often in splashy prints and tropical colors. As much as I love tropical prints, I prefer the basic tones of black and white that still make up most of my wardrobe. Some things never change! This particular style was once worn by Grace Kelly which was my inspiration for this design.
Clean lines create this easy to sew caftan. It also has no closures other than a button at the base of the back neck, which makes it a good garment for beginner sewers. There are no fit issues to deal with either because of the loose-fitting design. The easy fit makes this garment ideal for anyone! It is also easy to either lengthen or shorten to knee length as you need to without much trouble. What could be better?!
I was able to meet up with my photographer friend for this photoshoot in a field of sunflowers near my home. It was such a beautiful day and the flowers were simply stunning!
Because I love this color block caftan so much, I have decided to make it again in a print version. This will provide you with two choices included in one pdf pattern. My patterns are in the process of being graded. I will let you know the moment they become available to purchase! Be sure to sign up for my email notifications to be first on the list!
In the meantime, here are the supplies you will need for this simple project.
Supplies Needed:
- Grace Color Blocked Caftan PDF Pattern
- 4 yards black Ponte de Roma knit
- 2 yards ivory Ponte de Roma knit
- one 5/8″ button
- homemade bias binding from black fabric (You could also use double-fold bias tape quilt binding, 1/2″ wide.)
- coordinating thread, scissors, and sewing machine
Sewing Directions:
1. Stay stitch front and back neck edges with 2.0 stitching using 3/8″ seam allowance.
2. Stitch side front panel to the front of caftan with right sides facing each other using 5/8″ seam allowance.
3. Stitch center back seam together with right sides matching.
4. Sew side back panel to the back of caftan.
5. Sew front to back at shoulders, matching seams.
6. Finish back keyhole opening at neckline with bias binding. Straight stitch with the right sides together, then press. Trim ends of binding even with the neck.
7. Finish the front and back neck with additional binding leaving a 2 1/2″ tail on the left-back neckline piece to create a loop for the button closure. Tack the binding in place for loop with single needle stitches.
8. Sew button in place while checking to be sure the loop is secure around the button.
9. Finish armholes with 1/4″ rolled hem, stopping at the notch.
10. With right sides together, sew side seam. Finish raw edges with a serger if desired.
11. Turn up 1 1/4″ hem. Press in place.
12. Sew hem in place either using a blind hem foot or by hand using a catch stitch. Press.
That’s it! Nothing complicated about this colorblock caftan, I can’t wait to make another one using a patterned piece of fabric!
More Inspiration
Finished with your DIY color block caftan & looking for more sewing inspiration? Here are some other projects you will also love:
Embroidered Tulle Capelet and Dress
5 Reasons Why You Need a Coral Ruffle Neck Dress
Make Your Own Terry Cloth Caftan Dress!
Eyelet Tunic Dress with Ruffle Statement Sleeves
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