Hi Everyone!  As some of you regular readers know, I’m working my way through my specialty sewing machine feet this year as a way of continuing to learn different techniques in sewing.  I’ve been sharing my “Foot Reviews” for a while.  If you’ve missed them you can check them out here.  I truly believe that it’s important to continue to grow your creativity and skills!! 
Even though I’m an experienced sewist and a professional pattern maker, with many years of experience, I tried something NEW!  In this day and age of everything computerized and digital, I tried a pattern that I downloaded and printed myself!!  I’ve read how some sewists don’t like to use these patterns for a variety of reasons, however with this pattern I didn’t have a negative experience at all.  I can understand why some people don’t like them, especially if there are so many pieces to print and then assemble later.  I wouldn’t want to do anything too complicated either by this method, but this pattern was simple and perfect.

This was not only my first attempt at sewing from a downloaded pdf pattern but also my first time volunteering to be a “pattern tester” of this pattern for my favorite sewing forum.  Sorry I can’t let the cat out of the bag other than to say, “you’re going to love this one”!!

I’ve worked with quite a few “sample makers” over the years professionally, but never made someone’s  pattern as a “tester” before.  I didn’t realize when I made the commitment that I would have to print my own pattern.  I was hesitant, however the pattern printed out quickly, didn’t seem to use all my printer ink and was super simple to assemble.  The pattern printed on 12 individual pieces of 8 1/2″ x 11″ paper.  This is a simple 1 piece front and 2 piece back A-line skirt pattern, so I was good to go!!

 

I taped the pattern together following the provided markings.  My alterations were to shorten the skirt to above my knee.  This is a more flattering length for me personally.  I also find skirts are more comfortable just below my waistline, so I made this a little lower.  Not crazy low, just about 1″ down.  Those were the only 2 alterations I made.  I choose a piece of fabric from my stash I had for a while.  It’s a 100% cotton, very soft Alexander Henry bamboo print in red and white.

This skirt went together quickly.  Just darts, center back zipper, and side seams to stitch.  This pattern called for “Petersham” to finish the waistline.

UPDATE:  7/10/2013  Here’s a “How to” link from BurdaStyle for creating a Petersham Ribbon Waistband.  The link was provided by one of my FB Fans:  How to:  Petersham Ribbon Waistband.

I’m not familiar with that method so I put in a lining instead and finished the waistline with self bias.  If you’d like to make your own bias but don’t know how, check out my Picture Tutorial:  Making Continuous Bias.  Simple, easy Summer Skirt for the hot weather here in South Florida and a perfect outfit to celebrate July 4th.  I think I will be making a few more of these out of my stash.  It only took about a yard of fabric and I can see this as the perfect canvas to embellish and give my own flair!!  Here’s the finished skirt.  Super comfy and stylish!!

Thanks for stopping by and checking out my latest Skirt Review!  I appreciate all the support and kind messages regarding my free pattern fitting series.  Only 2 weeks left in my 8 week series.  If you’re just finding my blog and would like to catch up on my series, “My Approach to Successful Pattern Fitting” you can read Part 1:  Measuring Properly.  Don’t forget I will be concluding the series with a Give Away!  All you need to do is become a registered member of my blog and “like” my Facebook Page.  Good luck!!