I made one over 20 yrs ago for my best friends son. It too, was cotton batise, & took yards of fabric. It had tons of tiny pin tucks. I was never so glad to be done with that gown. It turned out beautiful, but I said never again.
The next one I did I crocheted out of a pearl cotton thread (not yarn). It had matching booties & bonnet.
I enjoyed making that one, but did not want to do anyone like it either. They were a both labor of love.
Good luck if you take on the challenge & try to enjoy the process.