Wednesday, January 05, 2011

Getting better at pattern matching with Simplicity 4047

One of the techniques I'd like to be better at is plaid/pattern matching, so when I saw the Sewing Guild's focus on new techniques for a SWAP, I was intrigued.

I might participate - I'm still pondering.

But this skirt did give me an opportunity to practice the pattern matching.

I used the skirt pattern in Simplicity 4047, which I used to make my Mondo-inspired giant houndstooth skirt (which I did finish, an updated picture is required.) It's a pretty basic skirt pattern, but gave me the opportunity to practice pattern-matching in the back and the sides.

I carefully cut in a single layer, and also pinned very carefully as I was sewing on each of the lines in the plaid to ensure that I'd get as much alignment as possible. I did ok, not great, but not bad at all.

Here's the results - Front:


First side seam:


The other side seam:


And the back (the worst of it - the pattern doesn't match up well around the zipper area, even though I did interface the wool for stability before installing the zipper):


Finally, pretty lace at the hem, I love this little inner detail:


(Though there are no pictures of it, the skirt is lined, the wool is too scratchy to wear without lining. )

7 comments:

Summerset said...

The matching looks really good! It does take patience and practice, but the result is worth it. Don't worry about the zipper area - most people won't see it as it usually covered up.

anuradha said...

Yoy've come a long way!Congratulations!The matching is very GOOD,keep it up,for a self taught person,you rock!

Rachel said...

I think you did a fabulous job. I find matching plaid to be challenging. It is a skill I want to improve.

Mariela Alethia said...

You did a great job with the skirt.

Anonymous said...

Great job at matching that plaid! And I really like the little lacey touch. Lovely skirt!

SEWN said...

Love the skirt. Great colors on you!

KID, MD said...

It looks great! From the pictures, the plaid looks perfect, and that is an awesome fabric.