Not too long ago, I received a message through Instagram direct message from Libs Elliott. Â She introduced herself as a new designer for Andover Fabrics and asked if I’d be willing to make a Naples Dress from her True Love fabric line for Quilt Market.
Well… YEA-UH!!
From Andover’s introduction: “Libs Elliott is a textile designer who explores the intersection of technology and traditional craft by using generative design in her work. A deep appreciation for craftsmanship, design history and future-focused applications are all reflected in her work. She studied Material Art & Design at OCAD University and lives and works in Toronto, Canada.”
My understanding is that many of the designs are digital code transformed into surface or quilt designs.  No matter the origination, they are very cool and I feel a sort of 80’s punker vibe.
Libs had yardage of True Love Black sent and a request for a size 5T dress with butterfly sleeves and a gathered skirt. Â She originally wanted the wide bow ties, but for a couple of reasons we evolved to the gold tasseled version you see here, and I think it’s perfect if I do say so myself!
The gold lamé pre-made bias matched perfectly with the golden splashes on the fabric.  A little fussy to work with, but overall not too bad.  I used gold embroidery thread on the top thread to help it blend in as much as possible.
More fun with self-made tassels!  I used gold version of DMC perle cotton embroidery floss to make the tassels and the braided cord to attach them.  Oh, let me tell you – that stuff tangles like the dickens!  You can’t pull it from the skein like normal floss and I had to hand wind it twice to get it to behave reasonably.
Another hint of gold on my label, and then packed up and sent to Utah for display in the Andover booth. Â Libs asked for this as a commission for her daughter to wear after it’s done with display at Quilt Market. Â I hope she loves it as much as Arden and Hadley love wearing their Naples Dresses!
Be sure to follow along on Instagram – I’m sure Libs, Giuseppe, and Daryl from Andover will be posting all about it!
Such a great pattern, and the touches of gold – wonderful!
Love the “gold” accents in the edging on the neckline of the purple bodice as well as the tie with tassels on the ends! Adds pizzazz to the dress sewn from a black fabric with splashes of gold. Bravo to a creative Mom. Thanks for sharing.