After the “wadder” early last week, I needed something that would give me instant gratification.  Here it is, and it has become my new favorite summer skirt.

The pattern is super easy and a beginner could sew this up quickly. From start to finish it took me about one hour to complete.  I did not follow the instructions because there are only two pattern pieces.  I simply sewed up both sides, but instead of the elasticized waistband allowed for in the pattern, I chose to use a foldover waistband.  I have a couple of RTW knit skirts with that type of waistband and I really like them.  To do this, I cut off the pattern at the waist where it allows for a self casing and treated my new fold over waistband just like stretch binding on a t-shirt.  I cut a piece of fabric 10″ wide and approximately 2″ smaller than the total top circumference of the skirt.  I sitched together the short ends of the waistband and folded the band in half lengthwise.  Then I sewed the waistand to the skirt, raw edges together and I simply fold it over when I wear it.

I’ve had this knit fabric in my stash for several months.  I think I picked it up at Joann’s for 50% off during one of their spring sales.  It is a very lightweight one-way stretch nylon/lycra knit.  I adore the deep purple color.  Since I used knit fabric, I didn’t do anything special to the seam finishes.  I simply used my serger to finish them.  If you choose to make this same version with the shaped front hemline as I did, be aware that the inside of the back will be visible.  I recommend a fabric such as this where the wrong side is not distinguishable from the right side and I recommend that you plan to finish the seams in some way so you don’t have raw edges showing.

Serged seam and rolled hem

One word of warning about this pattern – it runs very, very large.  I cut an XSM and I still had to take 4″ off the waist/hipline.  I usually cut a size medium or small.  The fabric suggestions on the pattern are for light to medium weight woven and moderate stretch knit fabrics.  I’m thinking a woven fabric would not have to be adjusted as much as a knit, but the pattern still runs large.

Have a great sewing week!

I present to you, my valued readers, my latest wadder.

Notice the big gap at the back waistband and the gaping, droopy section in the front.  I adjusted and took these in (a total of 1 1/4″) as I sewed them together, but they still need to be taken in a good 2-3 inches.  If I do that, I fear it will distort the style lines of the garment.  Therefore, they are oficially classified as a wadder.

I also think the back darts should be extended slightly.  They appear to be a bit short.  Or, maybe the length of the darts is okay if the shorts fit properly.  The pattern instructions are very clear and easy to follow and I really like the style of the shorts, so I will ponder whether or not to attempt another pair.  If I do, I will definitely cut a smaller size.

I’m moving on to another project.  I’m in the mood for a maxi skirt or dress, so that will most likely be the next garment that I sew.  The best way for me to get past a wadder is to quickly move on to the next project in queue.

Here’s hoping you rarely have wadders and you are richly rewarded with success.