Learn how to sew a Peasant Dress with this free girl’s peasant dress pattern!
I love Peasant Dresses- they truly are one of the simplest dresses to make. I’m so happy to share this free peasant dress pattern and tutorial with you today. The free peasant dress pattern comes in size 12 months to a girls size 14 with both long and short sleeve options.
Want more free patterns? See my free patterns and tutorials page for girls ==>> here.
Why Sew a Peasant Dress?
One of the reasons a basic peasant dress pattern is so great, (other than the fact it is so easy to make) is there are just SO MANY different ways to change up the look of a simple peasant dress. From various lengths – this dress looks great above the knee, below the knee, tunic length or as a top. To all the different fabric choices you can make, different sleeve options (long, short, 3/4 flutter, flounce) and of course hem choices (ruffles, tiers, contrasting fabric bands or scallops.) And don’t even get me started on all the ways you can embellish this dress for a little extra pizzazz, lol!
I do like like to keep our dresses fairly simple. I’ve learned, (the hard way) that after about the age of 5, too many frills, ruffles or too much pink is not the way to go, lol. I do have at least 20 variations of this peasant dress pattern (different sleeve options, hems, lengths, etc…) that I have sewn over the years. See them here for a few ideas.

Why a peasant dress is so perfect for beginners:
Whether you are picking up sewing again after a several year hiatus (like I did – nothing more motivating to get you back to sewing than a sweet little daughter or granddaughter to sew for!) or are just starting out (welcome to the club!) A peasant dress is a super simple pattern that will help you master a few basic sewing skills. The most difficult part of this pattern (other than cutting it out and taping it together) is trying not to sew the sleeve on backward or maybe sewing the casing for the elastic band in the sleeve (and that is only because it’s small.) This style of a dress is very forgiving, if you make a mistake, just remove the stitches and re-sew it.
A peasant dress will grow with her:
A peasant dress is fairly boxy in shape. The elasticized neckline and sleeves bring the dress in and give it shape. Because a peasant dress is loose, it will start as a dress but as your daughter grows, she will most likely continue to wear it as a tunic or top. (My missy had a nightgown she wore constantly for 3 years. I replaced the elastic just last year, to make the neckline bigger and she still wears it!)
This printable Peasant Dress Pattern is free for you to download. The file is a pdf pattern and includes the full dress and 2 sleeve shapes (short and long.) I have updated it over the years and it is currently available in 7 different sizes: 12 to 18 months, 2t/3t, 4/6, 7/8, 9/10, 12 and 14.
(Note: On the last pattern update (May ’18) I updated the pattern to include the full dress instead of just the bodice. Personally, I preferred the original bodice only version because it used half the amount of paper. If you prefer that version too, I kept a copy of the original pattern and password protected it to avoid confusion with the new version. You’ll find the link to that version at the bottom of the page.)
For the peasant dress version I am showcasing today, I decided to keep the dress simple and let the two fabrics make the statement for our fall pumpkin photos. I planned on making a pair of brown knit ruffle leggings to go with this dress, so I made the length a bit shorter (really more of a tunic top) to complement the leggings.
I find the tunic length is perfect for school as it allows my missy wear leggings to school and still adheres to the dress code.
Are you ready to learn how to sew a Peasant Dress?
Head over to page 2 for the Pattern Download or skip to page 3 for the sewing instructions.
How to navigate this post (and find the pattern):
Pattern styling/Photos: page 1. (this page)
Pattern download: page 2.
Sewing instructions: page 3.
Update log:
- *update 11/2013: this pattern now has a long sleeve option! See the long sleeve dress I made here.
- *update 5/14: pattern now includes size 8.
- *update 4/16: pattern now goes up to size 10.
- *update 5/16: There is now a flutter sleeve option/add-on piece! Instructions and flutter sleeve pattern found here and you can see an adorable patriotic version here.)
- *update 5/18 Pattern now goes up to size 14. Finished dress length hits at the top of the knee. Original bodice only/paper saving peasant can be found on my Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom Pattern page in the files section. If you want this original version, you will have to request for access in the group. Too many people keep downloading it by mistake and then email me because the full pattern is not there!!!
adriana says
Wow!!!… Thank you!!!… Early in the morning I was looking for some tutorial for the peasant dress with sleeve… Thank you so much for make this tutorial!!!… I've used one of your tutos and you explains so great!!!… I will do this too!!!… I'll be posting some photos!!!… Please forgive my english…
grandma j says
Did you add more to the side angles when using the Peasant for a roomy nitegown?
Could you draw up a regular yoke multi-size pattern, then just give gathered skirt measurements for it? Need some long-sleeved for Christmas flannels. Thanks!
Belinda Fountain says
Love the pattern. One question about cutting out the dress do you the front and back on the dotted neckline or just the back? Thanks, Belinda
Jamie says
one neckline is the front and one is the back. If you forget, you can refer to the legend on page one. (dashed line is back)
Bonny Yokeley says
Thanks for your tutorial. I can't wait to try out this pattern. I absolutely adore the fall fabric use used for your daughter's tunic. I tried finding some, but all the fall fabric I found was so grown-up looking, more like something you'd sew place mats with, not cute girl dresses; however, I have some fabric I bought for Go Texan Day in February that will be perfect for this dress.
Sarah says
Thank you for sharing! What a cute dress. 🙂
Donna Wucherer says
Love peasant dresses. They are so versatile. Thanks for sharing.
Donna @onceuponasewingmachine.com
RaeAnna says
I love the shirred sleeves!
Margie says
love this. Going to pin it so I don't forget to try for my little one 🙂
-Margie @Therereproject.blogspot.com
Kathy Penney says
Adorable! Looks like it came out of a catalog. And the photos are great too!
Kathryn Ferguson Griffin says
That is so pretty! I love the fabric and she looks so precious in it. Thank you for sharing. Would love it if you would share this at my Make it Pretty Monday party at The Dedicated House which goes live at 8am CST on Monday.
Lisa Eagle says
I wish I had girls so I could make this – maybe my little 2 year old friend will get one made for her instead
Samantha says
I cannot wait to make this for my daughter and my two nieces. They will love it.
Mandy @ Sugar Bee Crafts says
Thanks for linking to Take-A-Look Tuesday over at Sugar Bee Crafts – you were featured today!!
–Mandy,
Carrie says
So cute!! Thank you so much for sharing at Sharing Saturday!!
Trayne1837 says
Thanks for sharing…. I love the peasant dresses…. and I was sitting here looking at the pattern and tutorial… and it struck me that this would be so cute in red flannel and add length to the sleeves… for a cute nightgown…. Thanks for the inspirtaton
noale says
Such an adorable dress! I'd love to make it but the link seems to be broken and I cannot download the pattern… Is it available for download anywhere else? I cannot wait to try it out.
Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom says
The links seem to be working. It is possible your browser is not compatible with the program.
Krystal says
Thanks for the great pattern and tutorial. I posted a photo of my finished dress and link to your tutorial on my blog.
Eva {Tales of the Scotts} says
Found you through Ginger Snap Crafts. I've been looking for a free peasant dress tutorial. So thank you for providing this. I have some cute Spring fabric to you!
Andrea says
Thans for sharing this pattern.Could you help me, if it's with seam allowance or without…? Thanks!
Lydia says
I have been on the lookout for a nice and simple peasant dress pattern. Thank you so much for sharing! Pinning!
Marshall and Emily says
Thanks so much for the tutorial! I used your pattern as a base for making a whole collection of Disney princess dresses. I'll be linking back to your site on my post this evening!
Laura says
Thank you for this. I am a novice but this seems like something I can do.
Becky Little says
Thank-you for this lovely tutorial. I have been put off sewing dresses/clothes recently as they are always too small for my kids! But this tutorial is so clear, I have run up 2 tops (one for each of the girls)in a morning. I will definitely be using it again – let's hope that we have a Summer in the Uk this year…my girls can wear many different combinations of these!
JAN CRAWFORD says
I made one of these for my 3 year old granddaughter, it turned out so cute!!! Thanks for the pattern. She likes to have sleeves in all her clothes so this was perfect.
Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom says
I'm so glad you liked the pattern!
~Jamie
Glinda says
Thank you. I just made the 2t/3t for my 18 month old, as she is very tall (33 3/4 inches) and I prefer her dresses longer than shorter. I'm loving it! The elastic measurements were very helpful too and correct for my little girl (went with a 18 inch neck, her arms are 7 inches, and a 15 3/4 inch skirt length from the armpit). She's tall and thin (24.5 lbs). Thanks for the easy to follow directions and great pattern. I'm set to do some more with different styles based off your pattern with layered ruffles. You saved me a trip to the store and some money. And she's loving it too. She hardly let me have it back to finish it all off. Great job you Crafty Mom!
Rhonda Sue says
thank you for this great pattern and tutuorial.
I just used it to make a terry cloth swim cover up, inspired by a Disney Princess, for my grand daughter. It turned out really cute.
Your pattern worked perfectly and saved my a trip to the store.
http://makedoandmend-stuff.blogspot.com/2013/06/princess-swim-cover-up.html
Kristin Giganti says
Just finished making this for my 3-year-old daughter. It turned out very cute. My finished length, from armpit to bottom hem, was about 17 inches. I used the 2t/3t size pattern, and I would consider my finished size to be a roomy 3T. My daughter is tall (can often wear 4t dresses) and thin, so it is sometimes hard for me to judge size.
One question: what size elastic did you use? I searched high and low on the tutorial directions, but could not find if you mentioned that. I had to make my elastic casing on the neckline a bit bigger than you suggested, probably because I used a tad bigger elastic. But it turned out fine.
Thanks for the great pattern and tutorial!
Anceline Jacob says
thank you for such a beatiful tutorial .. i just finished a top for my 18 month old.. it looks so cute.. even my MIL loves it..she says its the best thing i've sewn..thank you
Joanna Kiesel says
Great tutorial! I've printed the pattern, purchased materials and will get to work on two of these for my twins. Thanks!
Joanna Kiesel says
I did it! One super cute peasant dress with shirred sleeves. My girls are tall and skinny, so I adjusted the pattern a bit. I made the dress 16 1/2 inches, based on another dress the girls had worn. Is there somewhere I can send a picture?
Also, on the subject of shirring: What stitch length do you use? I used a 5mm and it didn't shrink up as much as I'd like. Does that mean I need to shorten the stitch length?
Jamie says
The shirring seems to work best for me on the default stitch length (2.5 on my machine.)
~Jamie
Adelina says
Thanks for your pattern…love your blog.
Anonymous says
For some reason I can't seem to print the pattern to scale. What am I doing wrong? The inch line is only 3/4 inch.
DonandStaci says
Thanks so much for an awesome tutorial! I have been wanting to make one, but never found a pattern I felt explained it well enough for my beginner self to try. I finished my first peasant dress today for my 3 year old and I am in love! As is she…she refuses to take it off! Thanks again for a great tutorial!
erika says
Hi! Thank you for the great tutorial. I was wondering if you had any information on how to add a lining to the peasant dress tutorial? Thank you!
Brianna Lebrecht says
I'm pretty late to finding this, but this is great! I made a dress for my daughter last night and it's so adorable on her! It was my first one! Now I'm thinking I'll make matching dresses for my nieces for Christmas 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing this great tutorial!
Megsukut says
Can you give a tutorial on how to add ruffles to leggings to go with this dress??? Pretty please!
Experiential Mom says
I'm not sure if you still need this, but if you look through her free tutorials, there is already a pattern for leggings with "flounce." I used this idea to add flounce onto the arms of a shirt (with longer sleeves), and it turned out great! Hope that helps. 🙂
Jill Armentrout says
Thank you sooo much for sharing this! I made one and it was so easy I ended up making 4 more!! My daughter LOVES them!!
Cookiern says
I am so totally in love with this tutorial. I don't even have a daughter or granddaughter so I am going to make this for my housekeeper's daughter! What I love best is you showing three different sleeve options! Brilliant! (And I pinned it!) Thank you 🙂
Baby Abshire says
this may sound like a silly question but for long sleves can i just use thaat same paturn and make them longer or would it be different?
Experiential Mom says
I added 2.5-3'' length plus about 3'' of "flounce" (a ruffly pattern that you can find in her free tutorials for leggings) to the arms, and it turned out great. That was for a size "7."
Liz Merkel says
Thanks for the great tutorial! I'm not a seasoned sewer, but i could not get the shirring to work at all. Your tutorial link says to turn the fabric around, but i assume that is because it is on one side of fabric. For the sleeves, do we jsut go all the way around once for each row? Thanks!
Annu says
Hello Jamie, I dont think you know me, but I have been teaching myself to sew by stalking you and 2 other blogs! 🙂
I love this tut and I made these for my 2 year old twins, so thank you for helping me in sewing.
I have blogged about it and linked this tut, hope that ok, here is the link if you wanna have a look at it
annusplace.blogspot.com
Experiential Mom says
I'm not sure if you're still answering posts, but I was wondering whether you tried adding the same dimensions to the size 4/7 pattern as you did from the 2/3T in order to make a size 8/10. I want to try it out; I'm hoping it works 🙂
Jamie says
I suggest adding about 1.5 inches to the top of the sleeve and bodice pattern (like I did in the modern peasant dress tutorial) This will help make the dress less tight under the arms.
Thời trang Myone says
oh, it so cute, you are so manual dexterity
Danitajc says
Just finished downloading pattern … still new to all that stuff, but it was successful! I love to sew for my granddaughters and send them outfits that I know will fit for a while. This is a gem. Thanks again for sharing. I have pinned you and I hope others get to enjoy your hard work too!
Jenny says
I so want to try this. My daughter needs a size 12, so I'll have to figure out how to modify it. Hmm…
SweetAbbs says
What seam allowance do you use when sewing the sleeves on? I didn't see that. Thx!
Jamie says
Hi, use 1/4 inch.
Good luck!
~Jamie
Majstess says
When cutting the pieces should i ad that extra 1/4 inch to the pattern?
Majstess says
When cutting the pieces, should I ad that extra 1/4 inch? Thank you for the pattern!
Jamie says
No, the seam allowances are included in the pattern.
Majstess says
Thank you for answering! tonight I will do my first try!
Marie DANNEELS says
Many thanks for the pattern and the tutorial.
Greets from Belgium
Tini Collins says
I used this pattern with short and long sleeve Arms and both times it turned out to CUTE 🙂
check this link for a Picture for the Long Sleeve version
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=638895366149411&set=pb.198194713552814.-2207520000.1387231480.&type=3&theater
Thank you for the great and easy Pattern 🙂
Stephanie says
I have been looking for a peasant dress pattern sporadically for a while and I'm so happy I found this one! Thanks for sharing the pattern and for your excellent tutorial!
Mama G @ bigcraftyblog.blogspot.com says
Thanks so much for making a pattern that goes all the way up to a 7! I have had the hardest time finding anything past size 2. I just got some fabric I really want to use with this pattern so hopefully I will get a chance soon. If I blog about it I will let you know!
Leslie @ Mama G's
April R says
I am going to make this in a size 7 with stretchy material for the arms and adding a large ruffle at the bottom for length. My daughter is a size 8-10 so the size 7 would be more like a shirt than a dress! Any suggestions on any measurement adjustments I need to make to make sure the neck and arm holes are wide enough? Thanks!
Jamie says
Hi April, I have not made a size 8/10, but this pattern is very adjustable. I think you would be ok if you added 2 inches to the top of the bodice and sleeve. I also think it would be a good idea to move the pattern over 1/2 inch from the fold. This will give you an extra 2 inches of width.
~Jamie
RenitaH says
thank you! I can't wait to give it a try!
Heather H. Karr says
Thanks for this great tutorial. I think I'm going to adjust this for two costumes I have to make for my daughter's school play. They're a bit bigger (12/14), but I think I can make those adjustments using your pattern and t-shirts that fit her as a guide.
Brooke Ham says
Can you email me the pattern? Google won't let me switch accounts and so I can't download any of it and I really wanted to start making them today!! Thanks so much! My email is hammybe_008@yahoo.com
ginnybelle100 says
Hi Jamie – Thank you so much for your free pattern. Your finished dress looks lovely on your daughter. I'm making dresses for charity known as Dress A Girl Around the World and dresses for some of the countries are required to have sleeves. I don't have a little one to measure so your elastic measurements are so helpful. This is a great pattern and your tutorial is very easy to follow. Thank you again, best wishes, Virginia in Australia
Emily Thompson says
so cute, thanks for sharing all the sizes!! I just want wanted to let you know that I've put together a post called 20+ free sewing patterns for kids and this is part of it!! I've spread the word all around and I hope you will see some extra visits ;o)
Jeff and Valerie says
I tried this pattern out this week and it turned out great. I put a fabric border along the bottom that matched the sleeve fabric. So cute!
Mayve says
I used this pattern as a base for my daughter's Easter dress, and it turned out great! I bound the top and the bottoms of the sleeves with bias-cut fabric, added two flounces at the bottom and used a piece of ribbon as a sash, since I ran out of time to make her a fabric sash. I did have to make it a little larger, since my little girl wears a size 10, but it wasn't difficult. This is a very well-written tutorial, thank you! 🙂
twill1219 says
I have used your pattern to make my daughter a peasant top with short sleeves, a tunic with 3/4 sleeve, and a dress. Thank you for a well written tutorial. I am a novice sewer and was so pleased with the results. Thanks again!
Janet says
I just made two nightgowns with this pattern, thank you so much! You're awesome!! 🙂
Jamie says
So glad you liked it!
~Jamie
fishdogfarm says
Well.. I did it! I don't really sew and have never followed a pattern before but I did it! I made 2 dresses for my girls. I have a very tall 3 year old and a one year old. The 3yr old I did the 4/5 size for with a longer length of 22" and the 1yr old I did the 2/3 size with 18" length. Both are adorAble and come between knee and ankle in length. The addition I made to the smaller dress was to add a ribbon to the back for a tie just below her armpits by a couple inches. Super easy and did it in a contrasting color. It's helpful since she's a toddler and tipsy as it is. Thank you for a wonderful and easy pattern even *I* could follow. My older daughter now wants to sell all her pants to buy dresses. Ha! Looks like I've got a few more dresses to make. 🙂
Jamie says
You are welcome, I'm so glad the pattern worked for you!
~Jamie
Jonathan says
I just wanted to stop by and thank you for your wonderful pattern. My daughter and I both love it!
Jamie says
Adorable! Thanks for sharing the link!
~Jamie
Travis & Ashley says
Thanks for sharing this pattern! Do you ever line these dresses or do you find that it's not necessary, or might compromise the way the dress hangs?
Jamie says
I've not lined any of these dresses. My fabric choices have been fairly non-sheer. I did line the skirt part of our angel costume, that was pretty easy though, I just sewed in a little skirt/slip. (https://www.scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com/2013/10/diy-angel-costume-plus-tutorial-and.html) For the peasant style, I think a slip dress in a slippery fabric would not affect the hang.
~Jamie
~Janet says
Hello! I've had great luck making size 3 dresses with your pattern, but was curious about bigger sizes. For the size 4/6, is the only difference in fit the length? Are these bodices like pillowcase dresses where they fit over several sizes? I apologize if this seems like a silly question, but it only have boys and make dresses for friend's little girls, haha.
Jamie says
Yes, the size 4/ 6 is designed to fit a child between a 4 and 6. The main difference will be in length and how tight you draw up the elastic in the neckline.
Good luck,
Jamie
holly mattson says
How many yards of fabric do u need to make a size 7 dress?
Jamie says
I recommend 1 and 7/8 yards. Good luck!
Bettsi McComb says
Hi Jamie, I was looking for a simple peasant style pattern to sew a little dress for my granddaughter who just happens to be named….wait for it…Jamie! I picked up the most beautiful, vintage scrap of floral voile. It's turning out to be gorgeous! Thank you so much for sharing this for no charge! I may comment again with a link if it turns out well!
Rhonda says
Thank you so much for this! I have just started sewing again after many, many years, and this was so easy and non- threatening. I'm sure my 5 year old granddaughter will love it. I am so grateful.
Nancy in IN says
Just wanted to let you know that I finally was able to download the pattern.
Thanks.
paperwoman09 says
Really cute little dress,thought i would try to make this for my great niece. I thought i would try to make this for my great niece, it's been a long time since i for sewn anything . But i was wondering how much of a seam allowance did you leave? Thanks for sharing this pattern!!
Jamie says
The pattern includes one-fourth inch seam allowance.
good luck,
Jamie
Sarah Seifert says
Hmmm…sorry if this shows up twice. I'm apparently having technical difficulties today. Anyway, I absolutely love this pattern and would like to make a couple Halloween-themed dresses for my girls, ages 5 & 3. However, when I try to download the pattern from Google Docs, I get the following error message:
"Sorry, you can't view or download this file at this time. Too many users have viewed or downloaded this file recently. Please try accessing the file again later. If the file you are trying to access is particularly large or is shared with many people, it may take up to 24 hours to be able to view or download the file. If you still can't access a file after 24 hours, contact your domain administrator."
Do you have any ideas on a workaround for obtaining this pattern? I would really love to give this a whirl. Thanks so much for making this a free pattern. My girls and I truly appreciate it. 🙂
Jamie says
hi Sarah, I have not seen this happen before. I will check it out when I get home. Are you logged into Google? we might be able to use Dropbox if there are still problems later.
Jamie
Sarah Seifert says
I found a weird workaround. At first I was just trying to download the pattern to my desktop, which is what gave me the error. Then I hit print, which opened up an Adobe Reader dialogue box. Then I hit cancel print, which left the PDF open in Reader. From there I was able to save it to my desktop from this weird shadow menu that appeared at the bottom of the document if I sort of hovered my mouse over it. Bizarre, but I made it work. Thanks! I can't wait to get started.
Jamie says
I just tested it and didn't have any issues on my end, but I re-uploaded it to change the link, just in case. (Plus I saw someone shared the pattern link instead of the post link on facebook- which violates my terms of use- and is just not nice…)
When printing, make sure to open the pattern in the real adobe reader and print from there. I've notice if you try to print from the reader app associated with google drive/docs, patterns don't always print to scale.
Good luck and let me know if you have any other issues.
~Jamie
Jackie Mitchell says
I love your peasant dress design and cannot wait to try it. I am having difficulties downloading the pattern. Will you please email it to me at jamitchell61@aol.com. Thank you so much!
Jackie Mitchell says
Thank you for creating the pattern. Cannot wait to get started. Having difficulties downloading. Will you please email it to jamitchell61@aol.com Thank you so much!
Jamie says
I'm sorry Jackie, the file is too large to email. Hopefully you can get someone to help you figure out how to print the pattern.
~Jamie
Linda Watson says
how much would I have to add for a size 10/12 ? Thank you
Jamie says
I'm sorry, Linda. I don't have those measurements worked out yet. I'll update the post when I do!
~Jamie
Lisa Seatrota says
♡♡♡
1savedbytheblood says
I followed your directions, but I cannot get the pattern to print the appropriate size. It's about 1/4" off no matter what I do. Please help!!
Jamie says
Without being there, I can't diagnose the problem, I'm sorry.
Jamie
Allicia Greene says
I am hoping to try this pattern. I've never made a dress before but I think this will be super cute for my 9 month ild
Cynthia Wingood says
Do you have sizing up directions/suggestions? I love this pattern and use it often for my own daughters. But my daughter wants to make one for a friends who is a size 10
Sandy Lines says
I made the long sleeve version of this for my Daughter for her 3rd grade wax museum. It was perfect & very simple!
badgersue says
Do we print the pattern pieces for the peasant dress in Landscape?
Jamie says
Yes, save the pattern to your computer. Open the file, remove all printer formatting and choose Landscape for printing. Good Luck!
~jamie
Roxanne says
I love your peasant dress pattern. Thank you for sharing! I am new to sewing and already made a long sleeve version. I am now working on a short sleeve peasant dress and would like to shirr the sleeves. I followed your link and found many helpful tips but am still a little confused. Your tutorial for the shirred dress has you shirring the front and back before sewing them together. How do I do this with my short sleeves that are already stitched together? Do I back stitch at the beginning and end of each row? Would it be easier in the future to shirr the sleeves before sewing the sleeves and body together? Thank you :)Roxanne
Jamie says
oops, sorry I missed this comment until just now. For the peasant dress sleeve, I shirred "in the round." Meaning, after the sleeve was attached to the dress, I stared at the bottom edge of the sleeve and kept going in circles without stopping until I got 3 rows. Hope that helps!
~Jamie
Tena says
Thank you so much for the pattern and the tutorial. Made the dress tonight for my little baby granddaughter. I did a Minnie Mouse dress for our trip to Disney world. Wish I knew how to post a pic so you could see it.
Umm 'Ali Zahari says
Hi Jamie,
I had just sewn a top for my 2+ year old daughter and it turned out lovely.
Was wondering what the front and back necklines measurements would be for an adult woman (size 10/12 UK) and how much elastic would be needed, please?
Thanks.
Jamie says
Hi, I don't have those measurements yet, but it is definitely on my to do list!
Christine Bewley says
I just wanted to thank you for this awesome pattern! Your instructions and photos are so easy to follow. I was able to bust out three dresses last week with varying accents for my daughter! Will definitely be making more.
Amruta Tengase says
Hi, have tried this dress and turned out great. My daughter is happy with this dress and also have sewn her tank top. All of your patterns are easy to follow with detailed instructions, photos and suggested variations. Wow, you are great. Will like to thank you for such great free and easy to follow patterns. Will you mind if I share link for this pattern on other blogs or site? Thank you very much!
Jamie says
Hi Amruta, I'm happy to have you share the link to the tutorial posts! I made a choice to not to sell my patterns, but to share them for free and just make what I can from the advertisements on my blog. So the more people who visit, the better! (Keeps me in craft supplies and fabric, lol!)
Thanks for asking!
~Jamie
Ambrosia Hair Beauty Products says
This was very helpful (I never made a peasant dress before). I just finished my daughters dress and I will be linking your tutorial to my blog. Thanks again!
Jonathan says
Hello! I commented on July 2, 2014, and I am back for more. I used your idea to make dresses out of my late father's shirts, and I love how they turned out. I am giving you credit and linking to your blog on my post. Thank you so much! http://scrapbookofsorts.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-dresses-i-made-from-dads-shirts.html
Jamie says
I just saw this, Adorable!
lovelife says
Thank you, Jamie for the great pattern, I´ve linked your tutorial on my blog – spread the word in the german speaking countrys 😉
Catrin
Jamie says
Thank you!
teachinyours says
Would love to try this but the link isn't cooperating…could you email? teachinyours@yahoo.com
thanks
Jamie says
The link is working, I'm unable to email it. Maybe you can get someone to help you figure it out.
Good luck!
Mary Ehrhardt says
Been looking for a dress like this – thanks so much! However, I downloaded it, and put my printing to "no scale". Doing this, the 1" box measures out perfect, but the gray boxes have no gray top to them at the top of each page, and just show a tiny bit of the oval with the letter. Should I just line up where the oval with the letter is or am I missing a printer setting? I'm printing in landscape, but don't see any other print settings to use. Thanks
Jamie says
Hi Mary, you can check the box for actual size and auto portrait/landscape. That should center the pattern and still print it at the correct size.
Good luck,
Jamie
audy says
How do i get to the tutorial. Your page is so heavy with adds It took forever and still did not completely load. I understand its for money. I get that, but wow. I got the pattern but see no way of sewing instructions..
Jamie says
I’m so glad you found the pattern! I have put countless hours and money into the upkeep of this website and the creation of over 120 patterns and tutorials that I make available at no cost to you. I hope you enjoy this pattern and are able to sew something pretty for a loved one or someone in need.
The ads load after the content has loaded and does not slow the page down. The reason it is slow is that is that there are many photos in this post and that does take time to load.
You will find the pattern download link on page 2 and the sewing instructions on page 3.
https://www.scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com/2012/11/howtomakeapeasantdress.html/2
https://www.scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com/2012/11/howtomakeapeasantdress.html/3
If the ads or load time bother you, I suggest you purchase a pattern on etsy. That way your purchase price gets you an ad-free pattern! Here is one that only costs only $6.95: http://tidd.ly/ead68369
Good luck, Jamie
Meg says
I’m just learning to sew and have made my daughter two nightgowns and two dresses using this pattern. Love it! Any chance you have a version for 18-inch dolls?
Jamie says
I don’t, I’m sorry!
Lu Emerson says
Thanks for sharing! I’m halfway through- my machine is having some tension trouble so I’m at an impasse until I deal with that. I will post a picture when it is done;)
Jessie Cunliffe says
Just what I needed. Thank you!
Janie says
Pefect pattern for my daughter’s Princess Leia costume
Jan Michetti says
I am not able to get the link to email to me for the peasant dress pattern. Is this free pattern still available? If so, is there a way to get it emailed to me?
Thank you!
Jamie says
The link to the pattern has been sent several times by the system, it must be getting caught up in your spam box. I will forward the last email to you from my email address.
After you click the encrypted pattern link, give your computer a few moments for the pattern download to start and you should be prompted to save it to your computer.
Once you have saved it, you can open it and print it.
For security reasons, the download link is only good for 5 download attempts or 120 hours. If the link is no longer valid, you are welcome to return to the page and send yourself a fresh link.
Thanks and good luck,
Jamie
Sue says
Fed up with all these PDF patterns on the net. Wish they would sell the paper patterns. I do not think it is the same.
Jamie says
I agree that pdf patterns are a pain to put together, but that’s just the way things are now. I am sure you can find a peasant dress tissue/paper pattern to purchase at you local sewing store. But keep in mind this one is free and has been downloaded over 55,000 times. (just imagine if I had a dollar for every time this pattern had been downloaded. I’d have a fully funded college savings account for both kids.)
Kayla Bradford says
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I’m a begginer, and this was wonderful!!! I may have spent all day on it lol, but I’m very happy with my first peasant dress!
Phyllis says
Thanks so much for the tutorial and pattern – looking forward to making some of these for my granddaughter this summer!
Barbara Davis says
I have used this pattern in the past for a charity in Haiti. But I have misplaced it. Getting ready to start up my spring sewing.
This is a very easy pattern to use and the dresses are so cute!
Heidi says
Thank you so much for your free pattern, it is perfect for the dresses for Africa project. I have made 6 dresses so far. Your pattern was easy to understand and sew. I plan on making many more, your dresses are blessing others across the globe.
Kellie says
This looks great, ca’t wait to sew!
Nicky says
Thank you so much for this pattern. I can’t wait to use it to make a nightdress for my daughter!
Lisa says
Thank you so much for this tutorial! It was so easy to follow your instructions. I used it to make a costume for my daughter’s 2nd grade project. So helpful!
Ayano says
I am not able to get the link to email to me for the peasant dress pattern. Is this free pattern still available? If so, is there a way to get it emailed to me?
Thank you!
Jamie says
If you have not received the email with the pattern download link, your email server must be blocking the email for some reason. You might try using a friends email and see if that makes a difference.
Ayano says
I’m so glad you liked the pattern!
I am not able to get the link to email to me for the peasant dress pattern. Is this free pattern still available? If so, is there a way to get it emailed to me?
Thank you!
Jamie says
If you have not received the email with the pattern download link, your email server must be blocking the email for some reason. You might try using a friends email and see if that makes a difference.
Jodi says
I see you have provided lengths for making the dress version but Do you have any measurements for making the dress into a top/tunic? I don’t have a child to measure .
Thank you
Jamie says
Not at the moment, I’ll work on that.
Carol Brunet Mongeau says
Hello Jamie,
Would like to receive this pattern the pleasant dress for a nightgown by email? Hope to hear from you very soon! Many thanks!
Carol Brunet Mongeau
carolelbrunet@yahoo.com
Jamie says
You’ll need to fill out the download form on page 2 and the pattern is automatically sent out to the email address you enter
Kersty says
Wow what a great pattern! Thank you so much! I used it with the new “in” fabric musselin and I really like one fpr myself now 🙂 Will definitely make some more peasant dresses!
Tammy says
looking for dresses and skirts and tops with 3/4 sleeves for my granddaughter size 9
Angela says
Know those recipes where people say “I changed everything about it, but it’s a great recipe!” That was me making this nightgown. I didn’t know how I was going to make it, so I bought material weeks ago. I didn’t have enough for sleeves. I did have enough for some thin straps, so I did that. And since I didn’t sew sleeves to it, I did a rolled hem on the bottom of the straps & the arm hole (because I didn’t have enough for facing either). I anticipate quite a few summer dresses for the granddaughter, & yearly jammies now that I’ve found this pattern, so I’ll have opportunity to get it right.
Thanks, it’s exactly what I was looking for (& I want a grown-up size because it’s adorable)!
Jamie says
Ha ha, Angela, I know exactly what you mean! One of the reasons I love this pattern so much is you can change it up and do so much with it. I’m going to be adding a couple of larger sizes to the pattern this spring and I am also hoping to get to an adult version too. Stay tuned and thanks for stopping by with a comment!
~Jamie
Jenna says
Got it! thanks so much you saved Christmas!
amy says
Hi thanks so much love the tutorial and pattern. I’m making one up for my daughter who is 7mths old – using the 12mth old pattern. Was wondering if I can adjust it to make a size to fit her now? perhaps take it in?
Jamie says
You could try sliding the bodice and sleeve pieces over about an inch past the fold (so the pieces will be narrower) I also think since she is crawling, you will want the dress/to be a wider fit on the bottom. So measure over 2.5 inches from the armscye to get the bottom skirt width.
Good luck!
Debbie H. says
I’m so grateful for the work and time you give. Just wanted to share how much your pattern meant to a little girl, and me. Over a year ago I made a dress and pjs for my granddaughter. I just received a text with a photo of a pleading face asking for a larger pj. Right now it is very cold and I made the peasant dress out of flannel with a ruffle on the bottom to extend the use. Poor child can barely fit into it as a shirt! She doesn’t want to give it up! Bless you for having the pattern ready in a larger size! I will be sewing away promptly with a joyful heart!
Jamie says
Thank you! My daughter is going through the exact same thing right now. She has completely outgrown all her nightgowns I’ve made with this pattern. I’ve even replaced the elastic to make them last longer. At Christmas time, I tried to find some larger sized nightgowns I could just purchase so she could have something to wear that fit properly, but they were all sold out everywhere! She needs a size 12 now (or 14 since I like to size up.) I am in the process of adding a few more larger sizes very soon and making my poor lil missy some new nightgowns!
Shirley says
You are a life saver with this free peasant dress pattern! Thank you so much, it turned out perfectly!
Shannan says
I’ve made this dress several times. It’s so quick and simple. It’s easy to read and was perfect for when I was a beginner sewer, and is still great now. I’ve used it to make Halloween costumes that later turned into dress up clothes, I’ve used it to make a simple shift dress for the Renaissance Festival, and to make a simple top for my girls.
Thanks.
Jamie says
So glad you liked it!
Amy says
Just wanted to let you know that one of your links is wrong. The “page 3” link in bold at the bottom of the article goes to a tutorial for a vest. That looks cute, but wasn’t what I expected! Thanks for so many sewing tutorials.
Jamie says
thank you, Not sure how that happened, but am fixing it now!
judith says
Where can I find the link to the pattern download?
This: “…Save the pattern by pinning here ==>> 56K+Save….” does not work!!!
Jamie says
that is the pin it button. At the bottom of the post, it says ” Head over to page 2 for the Pattern Download or skip to page 3 for the sewing instructions.” So go to page 2 add the pattern to your cart and check out. Once you have checked out, you will see a purple button to click, click that and the pattern is automatically downloaded to where ever your computer downloads things. Good luck
Isabel says
I am having a difficult time printing this pattern 🙁
I did as instructed, saved to my computer, opened in adobe reader. Printed at 100%.
Is that correct? I am anxious to sew this dress. I have printed online patterns before. I can’t figure out what I am doing wrong.
The 1″box on the pattern measures out 1″, however the rest of the pattern is not printing onto the paper.
Thanks 🙂 🙂
Jamie says
Hello I’m not sure if you have made it over to the directions page, but currently, this pattern is only the bodice and sleeve (both long and short) and you draw in the skirt based on your measurements (or the measurements provided.) So it is 7 pages. When printing, you should choose actual size and auto landscape/portrait. (It prints in landscape.)
That being said though, I am in the process of remaking this pattern to include the skirt – should be ready by the end of the week.
sugarant1000 says
Thank you for the quick reply! I tried to read the printing directions, but may have missed the detail of “auto landscape/portrait”. And well, it worked!
I am trying to sew amid a 4 year old with a broken thumb, and 2 with the stomach bug. It’s not a pleasant picture, but I have a deadline lol.
I can’t wait for the updated pattern. I am always skeptical to my sewing skills.
Jamie says
This is a great starter pattern, I’m sure yours will turn out just fine!
total5j6 says
thanks so much
Marisa says
I have used your original pattern with great results. I was excited to see the larger sizes! However, the bigger sizes seem a little short. So, I was wondering… where are these dresses supposed to fall, above the knee maybe? Can I just add a few inches to the bottom without a problem? New to sewing…
Jamie says
Hello, this is the link to the measurement chart I have based all of my more recent patterns on: http://www.basteandgather.com/blog/standard-body-measurements-create-size-chart (including this pattern update.) The finished length of the peasant dress is designed to hit just above the knee. (which is different from the suggested measurements of the old bodice pattern which hit mid to lower knee.) The size 12 is 26.75 inches from armscye to bottom hem. The 14 is 28.5 from armscye to bottom hem. (Seam and hem allowances have been subtracted from those two numbers.) On an average size girl (numbers from that chart) this length will hit right at the top of the knee. (which is slightly shorter than the test version I featured in the flounce sleeve tutorial the other day – my daughter and I both disliked how dowdy the longer length was on her.) I don’t believe I reflected this change in the instructions when I updated it but will do so now. Sometime in the future, I plan to add a tunic length cut line and probably a chart for finished pattern measurements.
Marisa says
Thank you so much! I really appreciate the clarification. I am making these dresses for Dress A Girl. I think I will go ahead and leave them a little long, in hopes that leaving room to grow will help them last a little longer.
Colleen says
Thanks for this pattern! I just made my two great nieces and granddaughter one. Very easy instructions to follow. I just hope they fit. They live on opposite sides of the country!
Jamie says
me too!
Pura says
Muchísimas gracias por su tutorial y por haberme resuelto los problemas que tenía para obtener el patrón de 14 años. Es un vestido monísimo, cómodo y del que uno no se cansa. He hecho varios para mis nietas, a medida que han ido cumpliendo años, y siempre han quedado encantadas. Escribo en español, desde España, porque me gusta mucho poder establecer contacto a miles de kilómetros: ¡ahora sí que el mundo es un pañuelo gracias a internet!
Jamie says
De nada, ¡gracias por visitarnos con un comentario!
dolly baird says
Call me lame. But I only found a pattern for the bodice and both long and short sleeves. Where is the rest of the dress?
Jamie says
That is the old version. Can you screenshot where you found that link? I thought I had it hidden to avoid confusion.
Ivy says
Your first pattern was super easy to follow, the new version took a lot of time and was frustrating to put together because I can only print in black. I think my page 6 is off or something because half the lines don’t match up. Is anyone else having an issue? I made several dresses from your first pattern and was hoping to reprint the exact one for the next few sizes.
Jamie says
I actually do not care for the full patter either, lol. I do not enjoy putting huge patterns together. But I took several polls over the last couple of years and the only people who spoke up were those that wanted a full pattern. The original is still available. Go to page one where I talk about the pattern and look under the change log to find the link to that version.
Nichola says
Oh hurrah! I love the small pattern. I came back for the measurements and was worried it was gone…
Thanks for a great blog 🙂
Ann says
I am having trouble putting the pattern pieces together after I printed them. Any suggestions that might help me. We are hoping to use this pattern to make a bulk of dresses to send to missions.
Jamie says
What kind of trouble are you having?
Julie says
LOVE this dress. I’ve made two for a friend’s granddaughter, and making a third one now for another friend’s granddaughter. I was inspired by your fall fabric version. Forgot to take photos of the other two, but will get a photo of the next one I make. THANK YOU! You’ve made this beginner sewer happy and made some little girls VERY happy!
Jamie says
Yay! I’m so glad you liked it!
nerys says
Hi there,
Thank you for providing these patterns. I made an ankle length version of this for a baker’s daughter costume for my daughter’s school play. It was very easy. The only problem I encountered was that arm hole was a bit tight – a bit looser would have been good. Had I had more material, I would also have added in some gores to the skirt part of the dress to make it a bit more full and roomy but perfectly fine for what we needed!
Linda Cottrell says
I love the peasant dress pattern. I have used it to make dresses for girls in Central America. I have lost count of the number that I have made. It is such an easy dress to make.
Jamie says
thank you, I’m so glad to hear!
Jenya says
Hi Jamie
Thanks for sharing the pattern. I just was wondering, if it’s possible to make a dress A-line, so it’s not that wide in the chest area?
Jamie says
yes, you can give it a try. When I make this pattern I will sometimes move the pattern back off the fold about 3/4 inch and redraw the skirt line.
Jenya says
Thanks Jamie