Skirt Alert!

A little while ago I mentioned I was keen to get a but more curviness going on in my sewing to match my hour glass figure. Quite a few people commented that they too are of the classic hour glass persuasion, so I know that you all understand the challenges of sewing clothes that are fitted. I do so love the smock, I cannot deny. I love the way it conceals my squishy tummy, but I must confess I look a little on the with-child side when I wear one.

(PS I am really bad at having my picture taken- you can almost read the thought bubble, "what shall I do with my hands??")

This skirt is from Sew U by Wendy Mullin. It is the largest size that you can make which surprised me. I wear an aussie size 12 to give you an idea of how big the pattern goes. The skirt is a little roomy, but is very comfortable. It was my first attempt at sewing in a zipper, and with the help of the book, you know what? Not so hard. (At least not so hard if you aren't demanding absolute perfection.) I also learned about using weights to help cut out pattern pieces rather than pinning all the pattern pieces to the fabric. So much easier. I learned a few interesting things actually, Wendy is like the textiles teacher I never had.

The instructions for this pattern are pretty clear, but probably better if you read through the whole book first before you attempt to make something if you are a bit of a beginner like me. 

Another thing I like about the book is she gives some information and ideas about design features to customise your garment. I stuck to the basics for this as I haven't made a lot of adult clothing. The belt loop instructions for the skirt were a little lacking for my liking, but I just made something up which was quick and seems so far to have worked out OK. I used a satin ribbon as a belt here, but I think I will make a sash out of the same fabric too. I sewed some beautiful mother of pearl vintage buttons that are the shape of a flower to the front belt loops too. I think I will do one like this from Angry Chicken too. Lord knows I have enough buttons around this place.

There are 2 other patterns in the book: a button up shirt and a pair of pants. I don't tend to wear button up shirts, and I don't find pants all that comfortable, so I don't know if I am as keen to make these. But there are certainly more skirts in my future. For. sure.