African outfit

Top: Simplicity 7159 Peplum Top

Fabric: Cotton & Washable satin

Adjustments were made to remove the gathers from the sleeve cap. Black 1/2 inch piping and black buttons were added to embellish the top.

 

 

The skirt is Butterick 4997 which has a back zipper, hook & eye, and back pleat. Adjustments were made by shortening the skirt 9 inches, increase the waist and hips to her measurements and because I didn't have enough fabric, I cut the skirt to her hem length of 22 inches and added a 2 inch band as a facing.

It was a wonderful feeling to hear her say, "It is a perfect fit." I had completed the garments when she arrived and was praying that no adjustments were needed.

PeplumTop/Skirt

Pattern Description: Simplicity 1699 peplum shirt with cap sleeves and collar.

Butterick 4997 slim skirt with front and back darts and back kick pleat.  Fabric- crepe back satin  Used size 20 waist and 22 hip and shortened the skirt two inches at the lengthening and shortening line.

 

Pattern Sizing: 8-24

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Like everything about the top.

Fabric Used: royal blue cotton poplin that has a feeling on nylon

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added one inch to the back to waist length. That being said, looking at the back, maybe I shouldn't have added that additional inch, but the front needed it.

Would you sew it again? Yes

Would you recommend it to others? Yes

Conclusion: This really is a beautiful pattern and I can't wait to make all of the items.

*Note: I don't know if it was an error on my part, but I had to recut the facings because they were too short. I added about two inches to the back and trimmed where necessary.

Crepe Skirt

Pattern Description: Butterick 4997 is an out of print pattern with long jacket with princess seams and collar. The skirt is a straight skirt with darts in the front and back and a kick pleat.

Pattern Sizing: 6-22

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like that it's a very quick and easy pattern that stands the test of time (it never goes out of style).

Fabric Used: Polyester Crepe

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I cut a size 20 at the waist and graded to a size 22. I removed seven inches from the skirt pattern length before cutting it.

Would you sew it again? Yes Would you recommend it to others? Yes

Conclusion: I'll need to add an additional inch for the hem next time. It was at the hemline before hemming.