Sam's preschool schedule has provided me with a little extra time for some sewing. I've completed several projects since I last updated, the biggest of which was this skirt, the first 'successful' garment I have made for myself. Every fall I love the look of skirts and boots, but I have never been able to justify buying the expensive leather riding-style boots that I love. The truth is, I'm not much of a skirt girl, and rubber garden boots are closer to my reality.
I drafted the pattern myself using instructions in the book Sew What! Skirts, by Francesca DenHartog. It is a simple cotton A-line skirt with a side zipper, no waistband, and bias binding trim. It's still a bit big and low-riding on me, though I took it in twice. Next time I'll know how to use my measurements better. The "sideways squares" patches idea came from a skirt pattern in Seams to Me, by Anna Maria Horner.
I'm not sure if this skirt is really working for me though...proof being that I have yet to wear it out of the house. I still call it a successful first garment, at least compared to the patternless skirts and shorts I attempted in my younger days. Luckily I had the foresight to use cheap fabric for this, so the whole thing only cost me about $8 to make.
I made another trio of baby bibs, from the same pattern as last time. These cuties will go to a new baby girl from Denis' office.
My best friend had a birthday recently so I made her some napkins from reproduction 1890's fabric. These are simple hemmed squares of fabric with mitered corners, easy and elegant.
Then I made a drawstring "travel bag" from the book Weekend Sewing, by Heather Ross, to use as a giftbag. I love the tiny toile fabric, and I love not using wrapping paper! Best of all, travelling with cloth drawstring bags is much nicer than packing shoes or laundry in a plastic bag from the grocery store. I'll be making more of these for Holiday gift-wrapping.
That's not all! I have a few more projects to share soon.
4 comments:
LOVE EVERYTHING...especially my beautiful napkins and little toile bag!!! Your skirt is amazing and LOVE, LOVE the photo! I love the skirt and boot look too but somehow never attempt it myself. It's such a great look on you - you should definitely wear your outfit out and about! Definitely!!! You are always such an inspiration xoxoxo Trina
Lovely! Everything looks beautiful!
Wow! I was feeling good about almost finishing a pair of pants for Sofia with lots of help from my Mom. I'm a long way from even thinking of being brave enough for my next project, let alone without a pattern. Nice work!
I think it's a great look! I've got the book on my wishlist as it was recommended to me by someone who does a lot of sewing. Now you've made me want it even more!
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