spring skirt

I was given just under 2 metres of this fabric over a year ago and have been wondering what to do with it ever since. Oh dear, I'm such a hoarder and find it extremely hard to cut into a lovely big piece because I can never quite decide on what to make. And just as I think I've made up my mind, I go and see something else that would be good too. But this one's a medium weight linen/cotton mix and just right for an early Spring skirt that should take me through to October, spanning three seasons - if I'm lucky.

The pattern came from this book, yet another from my too vast to mention collection of Japanese sewing books that I spend far more time poring over than actually doing anything from. You see, I'm still too nervous to tackle a zipper or buttons and I've always thought elasticated waistbands are a bit on the, hmm, dodgy side unless on a child. However, finally I found a style that looked like it may just tick the boxes. Yes, it is elasticated but not too full around the top and therefore won't add too much bulk (with luck).

So, out came the greaseproof paper and using the measurements given in the book, I drafted my pattern in a matter of minutes.

Now the trouble with these Japanese patterns is that they don't include seam allowances and despite the fact I know this very well, I cut into the fabric and was just finishing the final snip when I realised the error of my ways. At this stage it was a toss up as to whether I should soldier on or scrap the idea and make a skirt for my little friend instead. But no, I have to say I am a great one for winging it under such circumstances, so I just made the seams a tad narrower, crossed my fingers and ploughed on merrily.

It was a fun pattern to do, very straightforward really, and even adding the ruffle at the bottom didn't get me unduly stressed. Then I got a length of lovely cream Victorian crocheted lace (again hoarded for far too long) and added it to the hem for a bit of vintage je ne sais quoi !!

So, what do you think? I plan to bring on the Spring by wearing it with thick tights and mid calf boots, then change to bare (very white) legs and sandals at the earliest opportunity, so working it till the mere hint of a chill should return. Perish the thought!

And the back of the skirt? How about this view from my very sweet husband, who thinks he is oh, so funny!!

Have a lovely weekend x