This is the Grainline Moss Mini Skirt and I can't recall how long I've had this pattern but it has finally come to fruition! The whole time I was making it all I could think of was my Dad's admonitions to my sisters and I that he "hoped we got a discount" on our mini's because "you're missing half your skirt." Silly Dads.
I'm not sure what to say about the pattern because all of the online research I did comparing people's experiences and reviews led me to think that this skirt would practically make itself. Maybe I just wasn't in a good zen sewing place but I think I had to redo almost every step of this skirt at least twice. Granted I've never inserted a zip fly and at least a couple of times it was completely my lack of paying attention but at different points I just had the hardest time deciphering the diagrams and instructions. Did anyone else have that experience? I'd be curious to know.
So here's a rough review:
Fabric: This is a bottom weight denim-ish fabric from Hancocks. It has some stretch to it and a bit of a sheen. It was great for this pattern except my waistband ended up a couple inches too short for the skirt waist, I suspect in part because of the stretch of this fabric. So I had to recut that piece again to fit the skirt. I can't wait to make this in a crazy pink floral fabric I have in my stash. It doesn't have any stretch so maybe I won't have the same waistband issue.
Pattern: As I stated above I had some problems (some my own fault) discerning the instructions and diagrams. I had some gaping at the back waistband but as already stated I think this was due to the stretch of the fabric and not the pattern. This was my first time to insert a fly zipper and I'd say that I think these instructions are probably the least painful way to do it. The end result is good though and I think I may have to make a couple more of these just because they're great with leggings.
Alterations: I let the back seam out 1/4" because I was worried it might be too snug. My hips measure a 39 and the size 8 (which is a 39) was just right- not really sure I needed that extra 1/4". One more note about size, this skirt is made to sit low on your hips, so I think that the hip measurement is probably the most important one to take. I did not fold the hem up 3/8" two times and stitch, instead I used bias tape to finish the bottom. I just needed that extra 1/2" length.
These little owls are the lining of the pockets. I love that my girls aren't the only ones who get the adorable prints on their clothes. Well I think that sums it up! Make sure you have your thinking cap on when making this and you should be just fine. And, to my Dad- no, I did not get a discount but I think we should all show the zip fly I completed some major respect!
Such a cute skirt. It turned out great. I know what you mean about certain patterns. So are just do-overs. You do them over and over until you get it right. Remember dad use to say that same thing about our bathing suits :) Love the owls what a fun surprise. And I spy little baby g. I love the second picture of her. Adorable. Happy sewing, love, Holly
ReplyDeleteI forgot he used to say that about swimsuits too, not surprising though! I love those owls too! Yes, baby G loves to sneak in the pix when she can!
DeleteI like your fabric choice. I had a too short waistband too and I wouldn't describe my fabric as stretchy, but I havent heard anyone else say that. I thought maybe my seam allowances were out as it came out too big, but then again maybe I'm trying to wear it sitting higher than it's designed for. Hmm..
ReplyDeleteThanks! I would love to know what I might be doing wrong with the waistband too but still haven't solved that riddle! I know that it is meant to sit very low on your hips, which I like! Good luck to you in your skirt!
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