In February 2020, I took the first part of the pattern-drafting course by IAM Patterns. I really loved learning to draft skirt patterns, and I cannot wait for the second part: drafting the basic bodice block.
Then I will be able to make dresses, coats and more... only about 90 more sleeps ;-)
I have already made three different skirt designs, and I wanted to put this training to good use by drafting my own simple little skirt for the Doudou.
For those who are unfamiliar with it, the Ducasse de Mons (my home town) is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The highlight is the combat known as the Lumeçon, in which Saint Georges slays the dragon, keeping our much-loved town safe for another year.
But I am getting sidetracked, because this year... there is no Ducasse... because of the Covid-19 crisis.
So, to celebrate my birthplace in my own way, I made my little skirt in this lovely dragon-print cotton created by Belgian artist kanojo design. She offers fabrics in the colours of Belgian folklore.
I had bought a remnant before the crisis and was waiting for the right moment and the right project to cut into it. Now it is done!
What do you think of my dragons? Aren't they cute with their little spears?
Back to my skirt: I chose to draft a half-circle skirt. I had made a toile for a full-circle skirt, but I felt that the fabric's texture meant it did not drape harmoniously. Never mind: that is what toiles are for, to adapt, adjust and correct...
So I started drafting again, this time making a half-circle skirt, and I was quite pleased with the toile. It was time to make it in the "good fabric".
I also chose to draft a straight waistband and make it in a different colour to give the skirt a little extra life. I stayed with green tones after considering yellow and red, which are also prominent in the main print.
I chose a back closure, and to finish the skirt's edge, I made a small rolled hem on the overlocker in green to match the waistband.
I had great fun sewing this project and taking the photos with my husband. Ah, the Belgian weather... Poupoupidou! Or Poupoudoudou!
