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Sewing Instructions

It’s time to start sewing! In this lesson, we’re going to construct the Benning dress. You’ll learn how to sew bust darts, the faced neckline, inseam pockets, and the gathered tiered skirt.

While this pattern is beginner-friendly, we assume that you’re not an absolute beginner and you have some experience cutting out fabric, finishing seams, and using your machine and tools. If you need extra help along the way, click the “Links” tab below the video player or hop onto the Community to post a question.

Click the timestamps to skip to these sections:


  • Interface facing pieces (00:14)

  • Staystitch necklines (00:26)

  • Sew bust darts (00:52)

  • Sew shoulders (01:48)

  • Assemble and attach facing (02:02)

  • Hem sleeves (06:33)

  • Sew bodice side seams (07:13)

  • Attach pockets (08:19)

  • Assemble skirt pieces (11:16)

  • Sew bodice to skirt (15:07)


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Learn to Sew a Tiered Dress

Here’s what you’ll need for this project:


  • Benning pattern

  • light to medium weight woven fabric

  • all-purpose polyester sewing thread

  • a sewing machine needle appropriate for your fabric

  • 5/8 yards of lightweight fusible interfacing

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