Sew a Pioneer Dress
Sew an adorable pioneer dress for your Little House on the Prairie fan!
My daughter is ridiculously crazy about Little House on the Prairie. Basically, every day here at my house consists of playing Little House on the Prairie or Star Wars, or both.
We are on our second time reading through the book series. Earlier this year, our local homeschooling group had a book report, where the kids were encouraged to dress up and tell the other students about a book. Miss Magoo decided that she really must dress up as Laura. As I was in the mood for some fun sewing, I broke out my patterns and found one that would work for a pioneer dress.
This dress is made using Simplicity pattern #3725. I used the girl's size 7-14, but it's also available in size's 3-6 for your little one. The pattern is easy to follow. I don't consider myself an expert seamstress by any means, but it wasn't hard for me.
I wanted to make this pioneer dress easier for dress up, so I modified the pattern by using velcro closure on the back instead of a zipper. I also made the sleeves ¾ length to make it a little less hot, and easier to play in.
The bonnet is fairly simple and straightforward. If I made another one, I would definitely use a thicker interfacing to make it stay stiffer, as the interfacing I used allows the brim to fall down into Miss Magoo's face at times.
My poor Little Man has been forced to be Mr. Edwards, Pa, or Almanzo on a daily basis since I finished this pioneer dress. Fortunately, he's usually able to figure out how Mr. Edwards might need to go ride his bike, or why Pa might need to dig a hole, instead of having to truly play according to Miss Magoo's rules! And they've roped Baby Girl into the role of Carrie or Grace, depending on the day.
I'm so glad I took the time to make this pioneer dress, as it has offered many hours of fun for my kids as they play act Little House on the Prairie!
I took these photos of Miss Magoo in the pioneer dress shortly after taking a photography class. I was trying to remember what settings needed to go which way, so I totally messed up a lot of pictures. They're way over-exposed, but when I was looking through them, I was struck by how much they look like old pictures, so I figured I'd share one with you!
And this one the sun did some weird stuff, but the joy on her face is just so sweet! I couldn't help but smile when I looked at it!
So if you have a Little House on the Prairie fan, you should definitely take the time to make this pioneer dress! You will make your little one's day, and offer them the chance for so much fun play time!
And here are some fun Little House on the Prairie products that your family will love!
What is your child's favorite make believe game to play?
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This is so cute! My niece would look adorable in this dress!
The dress is so pretty and your daughter looks so cute in it! I wish I knew how to sew. My grandmother used to try to teach me but I'd much rather just watch her!
How cute is this. I love it. Brings back memories when id watch little house on the prairie with my grandma.
How adorable is this dress and so is your little girl! She really brings life to the dress itself. I didn't know it would be this easy to make one!
OH MY GOSH THIS IS ABSOLUTELY PRECIOUS! I also love that she is interested in Little House on the Prairie - such a great show.
that is so cute! I don't know if I am talented enough to even try to make that dress
You did a good job with the dress and bonnet! I loved watching the show Little House on the Prairie when I was a little girl and imagined how it would be to be Laura too! Your little girl sure got a wish granted. She looks so happy in that dress!
Oh my gosh this is the best! She looks totally cute in this dress. Great job on it!
Thanks!
Oh my gosh, this is so adorable! I've loved Little House since I was probably her age...what I wouldn't have given for a dress and bonnet like this.
I'm sure her Little House addiction is probably due to my enthusiasm! Such a fun series!
I instantly thought of Little House when I saw the dress. It's so cute and you've got great sewing skills.
Thanks Clara! It was fun to make!
I love this and I love that you're keeping the Little House on the Prairie alive with her! My daughter was not a fan! I soooooooo wanted her to love the books as much as I did. I still read them when I'm feeling nostalgic. I wanted to live in the Big Woods too! I did get to get a sleeping hat like they wore in the show, and I thought that was the best thing ever.
What a bummer that your daughter didn't like it. They really are such fun books to read! (A sleeping hat would be awesome-- I'll have to make one next!)
What a sweet way to play dress up. Reminds me of Little House on the Prairie. Super cute. I will have to share this idea for my niece.
My daughter has been all about Little House on the Prairie for a couple of years now!
She looks like a doll on her outfit. She's really cute and it also looks like she's enjoying this outfit.
Thanks! She's been having a blast with it, and has really made it worth the time I spent on making it.
I think your sewing skills are awesome! You did such a great job with that pioneer dress. Your daughter is adorable and I remember reading all the Little House books and wishing I lived in the "Big Woods." Such a great dress!
You're so sweet Alli! I'm actually not that great at sewing, but it's an easy pattern!
Your sweet girl looks like she just stepped out of Little House on the Prairie!! I love this dress, it is truly adorable!!
Thanks so much! She really loves it!