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Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Free-Style Handmade Skirt

     I picked up this great book from Barnes and Noble this past summer entitled Free-Style Handmade Bags and Skirts.  I was trying to find simple patterns that I could use repeatedly and that didn't cost me $6 a piece.  I also wanted to have the ability to play around with the patterns a bit and "do my own thing".  When I found this book, I saw that it contained dozens of simple but adorable skirt patterns as well as patterns for purses and bags.  They were easy to follow and basic enough that I could make multiple skirts from each pattern without it looking like I had gone out and bought one skirt in every color the store supplied (I hate that).   The skirts are not so simple that they are boring, however.  There are so many different styles. Some more complex than others, but all are very doable if you are familiar with sewing basics.
     For my first try, I started with the A-line with pleats. So, so, SOOOOO simple! It called for an invisible zipper, which I love, and it could be altered to my hearts content.  I added a lining because the material was rather thin. I'm not exactly sure why I did this, but I also only put pleats in the front instead of in the front and back. 
    I love the final result and can't wait for my next skirt.  (I already have the fabric!) This was definitely money well spent.  I am constatly trying to find cute skirts that are simple, and now I can just make them. 

30 comments :

  1. That skirt is adorable! Sounds like a fabulous book if you can sew. :)

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  2. I love the fabric you chose! It's lovely. And the skirt looks fabulous on you! I'm going to have to check out that book, it sounds great!
    xoxo,
    Amy

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  3. LOVE the skirt. I am going to buy that book right now! I am working on an Amy Butler barcelona skirt right now....it's a slow process, lol! Her stuff is SO cute but has very difficult directions. :(
    I am very excited to check out this book, your skirt is so cute!!

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  4. I love your skirt. It's really cute. You're a good seamstress. I guess I'm gonna go get that book now. :)

    Miranda
    www.justdrinkacoke.blogspot.com

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  5. I have that fabric and I think it's so pretty! Your skirt looks fantastic--great work! Now I want to use my fabric on a matching one :-)

    Rachel @ Maybe Matilda

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  6. I love the retro fabric. I recently sewed a skirt from a paisley tablecloth. It's close cousin to your A line skirt.

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  7. Very cute. I love the fabric! www.mylifeunzipped.blogspot.com

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  8. Awesome job!! I'd love for you to link up your awesome project to Wow Me Wednesday!

    http://polkadotsonparade.blogspot.com/2011/03/wow-me-wednesday-3.html

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  9. love the print. I'm not a big skier wearer but I'm sure if I made my own it'd work better.

    Feel free to stop by and link up to my Make & Share 1st edition Fridays if you like.

    ~ Christy

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  10. yOU are some talented lady ! Makes me want to buy the book ! I love this skirt sooo much ! It is very hard to find them and then they are like $40 minimum !!
    Come follow me back please!
    XO
    Frenchy
    http://lechateaudesfleurs.blogspot.com/

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  11. It says that the patterns are a regular size 4. Did you alter the pattern ? Did the size 4 work for you ?
    XO

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  12. What a beautiful skirt! I love the fabric you chose too!

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  13. @Frenchy
    I think you're right about the size 4. That's my skirt size and the pattern did fit me. I had to take it in a little around the waist but only b/c I think I added a little bit to much fabric (oops!) : )

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  14. Ummm do you sell these? I would LOVE to buy like 10 from you for this coming summer!!! :)

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  15. @CraftySix
    Well, I haven't thought of selling them, but maybe we could work something out : )

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  16. Yes I would love to work something out with you... although I'll need a bit more fabric than a size 4 skirt calls for! HA! :) This momma of 3 USED to be a size 4... way back when... :)

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  17. Love the skirt and love the fabric you chose. Thanks for the review of the book. Sometimes the pictures look great but the patterns are poorly drafted. Good to know this one is a winner.

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  18. I just might have to pick up a copy of that book! Great skirt!

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  19. Great idea! I'm featuring you as a Friday Fav at naptimecrafters.blogspot.com

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  20. Saw you at Tip Junkie's linky party. Your skirt looks great! I've been getting back into sewing but haven't braved clothing yet! :)

    Hope you can come say hi at my little blog sometime. :)

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  21. That turned out great. Love the fabric. Maybe I need that book!

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  22. This is super flattering! I think I may go pick up this book - I like to have several go-to books of basic patterns like this. Love your fabric choice, too!

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  23. I LOVE this skirt!! What a great job. I am learning to sew and have starting making skirts myself. I'm going to have to get this book!! I'm also a new follower of your blog. ~Lori

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  24. Love this skirt! And the fabric you chose is gorgeous.

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  25. very beautiful, thanks for linking up.
    Crystal

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  26. so cute and I love your fabric choice!

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