Simplicity 2451 Skirts

Simplicity 2451 has been a very popular pattern on PatternReview.com and with good reason. It is a lovely skirt to make - well drafted, better than usual instructions (as it is 'easy-to-sew') and a good variety in the one pattern envelope.

I have made two skirts which have taken me more time than usual, while trying to cope with the renovation as well.

The first is View C and is made in a french crepe (polyester) bought from Gardams. I bought this fabric specifically to make this skirt. As it is black it is of course, difficult to photograph but very useful in the wardrobe.




The second version I made was in a stretch woven like a RPL (also bought from Gardams but has been in the stash a while). The stretch in the fabric makes it very comfortable. It is an unusual blue colour which reminds me of a uniform a bit but it has worked out fine and I am hoping it will work well with my work shirt (light blue chambray with navy/black logo). This one was version B. I added the stitching detail to the yoke but not the tabs.


Close-up of the stitching detail on the yoke and pocket edges. (Colour not true in this photo - it is not this bright).


To do the stitching and keep the stitches even and straight I used some tape gifted to me in my quilting days. It is about 1/4" wide and has markings to follow to make your stitches even. I put the tape on the edges I wanted to stitch against. You only need one piece that you move on as you stitch. I chose to stitch it in the same colour thread as the fabric, as opposed to making it contrast as I had seen this on RTW clothing.

The only changes to the pattern was to edge the inside facing with rayon tape (instead of turning it up) and this makes it more like RTW plus means less bulk in this seam. I also added my usual tab at the top of the zip (invisible zip as usual) on the inside with a snap. It looks bulky here but doesn't sit bulky when worn the right way.


I am now onto swimwear sewing. I have bought three Kwik-sew patterns, swimwear fabric and notions. Hopefully something to post soon!

The reno is moving along. The extension is at lock-up so the nasty temporary tin wall is gone and new and old are open to each other. This is great for many reasons - we know have a back door, windows, etc, but the dust from the building work is getting overwhelming and I am now at the stage that I am getting used to chatting to builders as they work while I am still in my jammies preparing breakfast!