The Girl has new clothes

Last week I sewed some new clothes for myself. While I don't think it's the most cost or time efficient path to a new wardrobe, I enjoyed it more than I thought and am pleased with the results.

A-line skirt and apron
Pattern: Amy Butler's Barcelona Skirts
Materials: A.B.'s Midwest Modern in lime and Joel Dewberry Manzanita blue damask, white cotton muslin lining



First, I love how the A-line skirt turned out! Working carefully, the skirt and apron took me two days to complete. The pattern is well-written and includes simple-to-follow diagrams. I made a size 6-8 small, but the fit was a bit tight and I adjusted 1/4 inch on each seam allowance. With a mirrored verticle design like this fabric, I only needed 1.5 yds for the small size. The directions for the invisible zipper made sewing my first zipper a success. The length was mid-calf before hem, and after help from my husband-turned-sous-tailor, I hemmed the skirt to an even 14 inches from the floor.

I sewed this beautiful velveteen rick-rack (found at MJ Trimming) directly on the hem line before turning to hem. This way, when the hem is turned under, only half of the rick-rack shows and the stiching line is not visible. I also wanted a blind hem instead of a top stitch as suggested in the pattern. After unsuccessfully attempting the blind hem stitch on my sewing machine, I tacked the hem by hand. I really like the polished looked.

The reversable apron was easy and I kept it's length the same. I had been most excited about making the apron, and I do like it, but it's honestly not going to be used as much as the skirt. It will be a nice addition in cool spring months and fun to wear around the house and with jeans.




Anna Tunic
Pattern: Amy Butler's Anna Tunic, tunic length
Material: Amy Butler Midwest Modern in lime, white cotton muslin lining



I am less pleased with the results of this pattern. A fabric other than 100% cotton would lend a better look, and I don't think the lime color looks great on me. I chose a size medium based on an in-between bust size, but the gathered nature of design meant the medium looked HUGE on me. I adjusted the sides several times until I got a more hourglass shape that I liked. Next time I will make the small size and adjust from there. The buttons are extras from my stash - 3 matching pearlized and one top turquoise button.

To my surprise, I liked the tunic better without the belt. It is a comfortable shirt and I will wear it around the house or running errands. For the Fall, I may make the mini-dress or dress length to be worn with a long sleve shirt and tights in the cooler weather.



Overall, not too shabby for the first clothes I've made since high school.