Making Simple Stretch Pencil Skirts

[@susanperna4722]

Thank you, my excellent teacher, for NEVER assaulting us with commercials. You're one of kind in this regard, and I, for one, appreciate this immensely.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Susan! Patreons help me keep the ads at minimum, and their support means I don't have to cut to me talking about mobile games I'd never play too, which I just caaaant do lol 😅❤️

[@natrajkumari]

When you mentioned the whole "sewing waistbands into mermaid tails" I felt that. I avoid synthetic sparklies so much for so many clothes I make myself because they throw me back to Irish dance dresses. Glitter dot fabric is enough to make me slowly back away from things and hide 😅 Even for the occasional cosplays I try to avoid cosplaying anything that is going to use things too similar because I just *cannot* bring myself to deal with them for that long. 😂 😂 😂

[@QueAwkwardNoises]

I’d have to say that confetti dot fabric is the worst fabric I have seen in my entire life!! I’d rather wear garbage than work with that 😂😂

[@caraid9263]

Omg fellow former Irish dancer! I had a brief phase of thinking hey now that I know how to sew, maybe I can learn to sew those dresses from my youth and tap into that market! Then I remembered how absurd those dresses are and was like nope never mind! (Plus they look incredibly hard and complicated to make!)

[@apalehorsenamed_death2849]

I love all of them the red one is fun cause you can make a very villainous jacket to match and behold a simple devil outfit for Halloween with the right accessories. Lol yes Halloween is always on my mind.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I do have some red sateen set aside with the red left overs to make a jacket ✨

[@becauseimafan]

@@TheClosetHistorian Ooh so lovely!! 🤩

[@gowriwarrier2370]

This was much easier than I thought it would be; thank you for always making the complicated simple! All of the skirts were stunning, but I must say that my favorite item I saw was that minty wrap back top that you wore with the black oil slick skirt. Could you please make a video about how you made that?

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I've had so much unexpected love for that top 😅 I'll make another soon in silver ✨

[@Janette-tx2bv]

Omg you looked fantastic! Its like old Hollywood meets the future and it looks amazing! The red was truly a great color for you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Janette!

[@Mysmichelle69]

I love how you're taking this unconventional Fabric and doing things with its at I think are very conventional👀 your eye for style is sooooooo good imho

[@FunLovingDiva]

Would you be making matching blazers for the skirts? I think a matching red blazer with that red skirt would be so killer! 😀

[@TheClosetHistorian]

There is indeed more fabric set aside for a red jacket ✨

[@amandaworden2]

Wow you gave me the confidence to think about latex, I had always dismissed it as too difficult

[@reginafetty6374]

I love the green top you are wearing with the black skirt. That outfit is stunning. I also love the top you are wearing. I could never wear skirts like that. They show too many lumps and bumps for me. You look great in them.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Regina!

[@cypriennezed5640]

Love all of these, but especially the mint/ black combo!

[@gowriwarrier2370]

Yeah, I really hope she does a tutorial for the mint top!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@jirup]

My brother compal ace ((one of their first computerised machines from the late 80s/early 90s) had several overlock stitches plus a side cutter that trimmed the fabric edge. Overlockers for home use were very expensive, so getting these features in a sewing machine really broadened my sewing horizons. Especially as I had been using an early Singer 99K (complete with knee lever) for all my sewing. If your Bernette will take a twin needle, you can get a nice stretchy mock cover stitch for knit hems.

[@kaytiej8311]

The runway music says it all - 80s and what we used to call foxy. Great tutorial. As usual youve made the instructions simple and logical.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kaytie!

[@mickmousebuildahouse]

The fabric choice was 10/10

[@sherrysenf-mcginn7693]

These are so flattering. You look amazing in them. I have to say my favorite it is Patel hologram one. The color play of it on your curves. Mesmerizing. I need to make a a dress and skirt out of something like it. What a fun and helpful video. Have a great day!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sherry!

[@teressebirkett3387]

My mum went on holidays a fortnight ago and brought me back some absolutely wonderful cotton material. I'd love to make myself something to wear with it and I figure if I watch enough of your and Rachel Macsky KZbin I'll get brave enough to have a go.

[@jayneterry8701]

That's normal for quilting, loading 10 bobbins at a time . 🙂 Love swim wear . Ballpoint needles .And instead of pins we use clips .Can't wait for the reveal 😀

[@the_absurd_hero]

Nice work! I’m definitely feeling inspired to sew! (I’ve mostly outlawed knits from my wardrobe, but if the projects are this easy.. I’m tempted to try making a few pencil skirts!) The latex-like knit is gorgeous! But I totally share your hesitation in wearing something like that outside. I live in LA, and I don’t like the kind of attention I get when I wear form-fitting garments. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate compliments on my outfits (because I put a lot of time and thought into my personal styling); I just don’t consider cat-calling to be a compliment. Maybe when I leave Cali I can wear more daring outfits.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Yeah as soon as I get closer to downtown here I get yelled at for walking from my car to a restaurant and remember "oh yeah...I hate it" The fun fabrics you could source in LA's fabric district though!! Go grab some since I cant 😅

[@Mvnst3r]

Oh my goddesses, the red skirt with the black blazer is a must 😱😍

[@Asumae]

I love the sewing tips! just yesterday I bought 2.5 yards of slinky metallic sliver knit fabric and I'm still not sure what to do with it! maybe a cape or bolero? You make anything look amazing!! Love the pencil skirts!

[@waterbitten]

A metallic silver bolero sounds amazing! Are you planning on flat lining it? To give more structure and weight?

[@Asumae]

@@waterbitten I actually slept on it and was inspired by theclosethistorian and am making a vintage blouse with crazy metallic fabric. it just needs the sleeves now! lol

[@chastitysenek7499]

This makes me a little less intimidated by knits. Thank you!

[@metteriggs2151]

Loved all the outfits! Try the small red (or multicolor) quilting clips for the materials that will show pin holes. Assorted sizes are available on Amazon, not very expensive. Also, what is that incredible fabric you used for your blouse that was paired with the black oil slick skirt?

[@gowriwarrier2370]

It’s number 24 on her “Everything I Made in 2020” video. I loved that too; could you please make a tutorial on how to make it, Bianca?

[@metteriggs2151]

@@gowriwarrier2370 Thank you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

It's a lame' from mood: www.moodfabrics.com/metallic-green-polyester-lame-122827 and I ordered the silver holographic last week to make another one since I've had many requests 😂✨

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Also, thank you 🤣❤️

[@caoimhenimhuireadhaigh1303]

There's something so satisfying about a well fitting leather/ latex pencil skirt, it just feels right

[@thissettlefashion]

These came together amazingly! I love the pastel skirt with the slight kick out bottom, that isn’t a silhouette I would normally go for but it looks so cool the way you styled them. I see these fabrics at Joannas so often and of course am intrigued but nothing seems wearable enough (especially the vinyls), however seeing your take on them and how you pair things is so refreshing! Now when I see these fabrics I’m going to be envisioning femme fatale looks.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Susan!

[@greyjustice915]

This will actually be super helpful for my upcoming cosplay as a McDonald's girl from Fifth Element! This whole series has been very entertaining and helpful since I don't use stretch or vinyl much.

[@mimiandthemuse]

Amazing. You just can't stop making them now can you? Lol. I Love that skirt in the purple blue fabric. Wow. That needs a jacket to match. Maybe a goth jacket?

[@lwoods507]

Fantastic skirts, though I don't know how you managed so sew on that lighter holographic fabric without getting a migraine, my eyes were going funny looking at it on the screen! I adored the blue/purple one you showed as an extra at the end: that was lovely on you!

[@aliceadler4569]

Love the fur stole!!! These skirts look fabulous on you!!! I hope you get to wear them out & about!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alice!

[@hill77276]

1st time seeing your video. Well done! At 67yo & being an Owner-Operator long haul team trucker for 10 years (1996 - 2006) I no longer fit into 10 Miss pencil skirts. Going for a blue/sea green tie dyed stretch knit long skirt. This was a great review on elastic / fold over waist band

[@mrsjustreagan]

Loved seeing how you do the stretch skirts! You’ve inspired me to make one in a fun fabric. Also that minty hologram wrap back top with the asymmetrical front 😍😍😍 I am just in love with all these fabric and style line choices for this Look Book.

[@lisaheijden9943]

Yess love that top!

[@gowriwarrier2370]

I loved that top as well!! I think she made it for her Blade Runner look book video? Anyway, please please please do a tutorial on that one!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! The wrap back top is my usual one just with a peplum, but it sounds like I need to make another one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/nIDZomhrp9p1mNk

[@TheClosetHistorian]

@@susanstewart1402 Alas it is not a pleat! The peplum is simply layered there ✨ I will make another in silver as soon as the fabric arrives!

[@michellecornum5856]

Wow! Talk about femme fatale. THESE ARE AMAZING!! FABULOUS!! WOW WOW WOW!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Michelle!

[@LadyInWaking]

Perfect for watching or listening to The Cramps❤

[@KatherineYoung]

I adore how nice a classic pencil skirt looks! This one is so fun!

[@FridayFrida]

Wow, you look fantastic in those skirts! Especially the red one, and then the green blouse and matching shoes with the black one, fantastic. Thanks for a good tutorial.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@ailsadixon408]

Oooft these are epic! I love all of the fabrics, the first is so like beetles wings! And the space-Monet spectrum? Dies! Love love love 🖤💚🖤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ailsa! 🪲💚

[@aleswitch]

I love these!! And so easy to make! I love the whole 'early 80's sci-fi futuristic' aesthetic and you wear it so beautifully! Thankyou for being an inspiration!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@fawntheresa5338]

Your makeup looks beautiful! I hope it is as kind to your eyes as it is to mine. These skirts are made of pure futuristic magic! you are so fierce!!!

[@kfries1282]

It took me a while to get used to an industrial serger back when I volunteered in a costume shop, but I miss them now

[@J.gwenhwyfar]

These are great and you look fabulous! Love them all. Xx

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@susansmith8602]

These are all fabulous and oh so flattering to your hourglass shape, Bianca. The red is super sharp!

[@peachpower86]

I love your videos and how you break everything down I learn more from you than I do from books thank you

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Olga!

[@elizabethwilson5349]

Loved these! I never realized how easy they are to make. I also have to say that there are a lot of young, inexperienced girls out there that should hear what you said about where and when to wear a skirt like this. We all want to look good, and there are times and places for this skirt. But care should be taken as to the message you may be sending as well. You styled these brilliantly and tastefully, as always. Thanks for another great video!

[@fmarginalia]

Love the outfit with the green peplum!

[@DeniseMJoerg]

Love the top you're wearing. Green is my favorite! I'm too heavy for a pencil skirt but love watching you make it.

[@catzkeet4860]

Ummm….. nope. No one is “too heavy” for any item of clothing……your clothes don’t have weight limits. You may not, aesthetically speaking, like the look of certain styles on you, but that has nothing to do with weight, more to do with body shape, and even more, in fact MOSTLY to do with personal preference. Yeah there will be those who, when you wear something they feel is “not for you” feel the need to comment. Who cares? They’re idiots and can safely be ignored cos it’s none of their goddamn business “get thee behind me, Karen!!”

[@DeniseMJoerg]

@@catzkeet4860 you're sweet to say that. Maybe I will try.

[@shania1908]

I love them. That rainbow metallic watercolour pastel skirt made me so smile when you wore it. Just from looking at it. So cool!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It is a fun one for sure 🦄

[@vysharra]

The cherry red skirt is *killer* on you. Especially with your understated stockings. But I can definitely see how the oil slick dot would be 100x more comfortable to wear. Thank you for demonstrating the difference just a few centimeters can make. I’m excited to try this myself when I have the opportunity. My machine struggles with sticking/slipping, sadly. But it taught me tricks and I very much felt like tissue paper and binder clips might be useful for anyone less experienced dealing with the sticking/pinholes. My version of vintage is much more recent than most, my “old” Bernina has auto tension, but it also means I have notes from the original owner in the manual about both (she was an insurance actuary, a living computer, so her insights are detailed and surprisingly technical… and also often based upon office supplies lol).

[@baharpiena9246]

I love elastics. So easy to use. Can you make more projects with elastics? Would be lovely.😃😊

[@rainicascadia5514]

Thank you Bianca! I love this channel of yours! 💗🌹

[@tiamatmichellehart6821]

Stretch has the advantage of conforming to one's curves without any need of adjustment, but I'm not sure that I like the feel of my stride being yieldingly resisted as opposed to simply checked at a ladylike length as one gets with non-stretch pencil skirts. The latter just feels more classy, somehow; perhaps it harkens back to the days of the 1910s hobble skirt or even the "Tied-Back Time" of the Turn of the 1880s!

[@deborahf3738]

Ok, I've seen this fabric at Joann but didn't have a project in mind. You've convinced me. I'm gettin some. Thanks for the pencil tutorial. :))

[@Flamenco7w8]

Beautiful

[@MysteryMommy1]

The pastel one is my favorite!!!

[@mountainsno]

I love the red. And then the blue really popped for me. I think you did a great job with the hologram fabric... adding a bit around the hem like that works really well so it can be seen. Where as the solid colours I like the straight clean cut skirts. Thank you. Always enjoy your work.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Maretta!

[@billyloveswaffles]

Love this!! Would love to see you do a stretch top as well! You're one of the best when talking about patterns so your take on tailored to stretch would be v insightful

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Billy!

[@dawnvickerstaff9148]

These look fantastic! I especially love the green outfit. So chic!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dawn!

[@amcluckie9837]

Oooo. Loved this. Especially love the one you quickly added the kick flare on to. So simple but completely different look. I made some maxi skirts out of stretch fabric and fumbled with the waist band- so found this really helpful and will go and fix them now! Thanks 🙏

[@DeniseMJoerg]

Only you can pull this off so eloquently!

[@believeinfaeries8713]

Great video! I love how you tackle these daunting fabrics. I usually avoid these types of fabrics because they seem so difficult to work with. Also, I have a hard time justifying tighter skirts when it’s over 80F for most of the year.😂

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Oof that's too hot for me 😅 Thank you Flynn!

[@AndreaWilsonDollsAhoy]

I know you don't have any reason to trust me, but all you need to do to convince a sewing machine to play nice with coated fabrics like pleather and vinyl is swap the regular or ballpoint sewing machine needle with a leather needle. I've been using leather needles with no problem on pleathers and vinyls for decades and have never needed to do any of the other suggestions like paper or tape or walking feet or the like. Yeah, there'll still be issues with the overall thickness being more than the dinky home sewing machine motor can handle, but that's not the vinyl's fault. Your overall approach to sewing is so much like mine, I always like seeing your processes. This collection of metallic on metallic is so over the top and fantastic--thank you for sharing your vision ✨

[@christinebarker9251]

You look amazing in all of them. My favourite red with the jacket.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Christine!

[@annarundquist9439]

This was an absolutely fabulous tutorial on pencil skirts! I used to make my own belly dance costumes and working with shiny, sticky, stretchy fabrics was a bain to me for a while but now I am more open to channeling my creative side to more practical use. I love the peplum jacket as well as the minty wrap top. I am also here in Aurora and will definitely be following you and watching more of your tutorials! Keep up the Awesome work!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Anna!

[@amandasackman7723]

You've done something I never thought possible, I actually want to try working with stretch fabric... weird.

[@reeseoroni]

WOW! so informative and I love your skirts you made. I quickly made a stretch knit skirt after watching this. Turned out perfect. Thank you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Reese!

[@hanananah]

Ah I love all of them! I just finished my first successful project with stretch fabric the other day and I'm feeling very inspired.

[@stevezytveld6585]

Love the fabrics. Beautiful skirts. Well done. Keep an eye out for a Singer Automatic Zigzagger. It was developed in the 50's in response to consumer demand (yay Grannies) because they suddenly had competition from the Japanese manufactures (who had zigzag built in). Takes some futzing, but it gets the job done. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

[@ShannonLambert]

These look fantastic!

[@carolbarbee5653]

Those are some amazing skirts😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Carol!

[@myriamd3152]

Ooo! we're machine sisters! Nothing to be proud of, really, it is not a great machine but all I could afford

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I still think it's quite a pricey one!! I don't think the bells and whistles 1K machines are necessary though, and after my $75 craigslist Singer 99k score I'm never buying new again 😂

[@myriamd3152]

@@TheClosetHistorian We can indeed see in all your videos which one has your preference! I also have a '20ish and a '60ish machine, but neither has been serviced yet. Once it's done though, I'm sure I will love them!

[@raquelseydewitz491]

These are great! I especially like how you made the flared hem to the skirt.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Raquel!

[@bethknapp4935]

These are gorgeous and you totally rock them!! 💖

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Beth!

[@quicksilvertears921]

Dang! Those all look fantastic. 😍 I love your style.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@utefeather9356]

Pretty colors and you wear it well! Great ideas!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@sarahlongshore2605]

WOW!! THESE ARE AMAZING!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sarah!

[@doloresgreen1563]

Love, love, love these pencil spandex skirts!!! Especially the one with the flared hemline. Breath Taking !!! 💖💖💖

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dolores!

[@SewTexas]

All look nice and you paired with nice tops.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Renee!

[@caraid9263]

Yay great tutorial! I definitely want to try this! It’s weird, I wear tight non stretch pants all the time yet a non stretch fitted skirt makes me feel really restricted for some reason so a stretch version sounds perfect!

[@leslikuyweski4576]

I love the simplicity of these skirts. They look great on you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Leslie!

[@geministargazer9830]

These are outside my style but you're making me want them lol. I might have to give in and make something shiny

[@marieeaton-smith5168]

Gorgeous.

[@bast713]

Such cool skirts! It's fun to step a little outside our comfort zone with our sewing sometimes - they all turned out really awesome.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amy!

[@feliciamartinez2782]

Amazing!!! You look great in them!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Felicia!

[@bnhietala]

These are so fun! I absolutely LOVE that holographic fabric. So groovy.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@MichelleSMV]

Man I wish I saw this before having to sew in a stretchy waistband! I only botched half of it in the end 😅. You look awesome in these skirts and I love the shiny! So much shiny ✨

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Michelle! Stretchy is a whole different ball game 😂

[@MichelleSMV]

They are an entirely different baby (as my art teacher would say). I’ll definitely be re watching this video for the next time though!

[@giftodigie3854]

Very helpful!!! I loved ♥ it.

[@Shannonishere]

Great video! Love the tips for sewing stretch and the skirts are amazing!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shannon!

[@MeadowoodRanch]

Shiny! Fun projects.

[@marcco44]

these liquid, metallic fabrics look sensational on you......you must be something to see in real life, i bet there's a lot of head turning and double takes around you!! also good to see the back up sewing machine in action, tho i do love the singer, my mom had one!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Marcco! Poor little back up machine never gets to play so it had a good month 😂

[@marcco44]

@@TheClosetHistorian yes you can call it 'the stretchy dress machine'!!

[@alaineblaylock557]

Love your hair and makeup 💄 😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@sewcute_sewvintage]

thank you for always having entertaining videos

[@dianaswett6397]

These look awesome ❤😊

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@doblemaltita]

SO SHINY WOOOOO

[@sinndymorr6358]

The fabric choices are amazing! So flattering on you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sinndy!

[@marypower7295]

I love your pattern tips planning to make a bodice block soon . I personally wear more trousers than skirts I'm wondering if a trouser block is possible . I realise its probably not your thing just wanting to know could it be done and or would it be useful in the same way the bodice block appears to be?

[@bethliebman8169]

You lost me at Spanx. I'm too old to wear stuff that requires Spanx. I sew on my mom's 1950's Singer which does not do zig-zag stitch. It was good to know that attachments might be available for my old Singer. Once again, a thoroughly entertaining video! Like the look and fit of these.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Beth! Honesty hour: I don't /have/ to wear spanx with these, I just like having some sort of shorts/hosiery on so my thighs don't rub...😅

[@vintagelife5195]

One of them skirts made my eyes glitch out with that holographic effect.

[@alina1216]

These are so amazing!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@coreygilles847]

The skirts are just lovely! I especially love the flared one

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Corey!

[@elmmusicful]

holy tolido!!!!! All of those are super flattering!! and you made using knits less intimidating:) may I ask what kind of foundation garments are used to help keep everything smooth for the styles you wear? I heard you talk about a longline bra, but I dont remember if you mentioned where you purchase or how to make any of the foundation garments. or am I forgetting a video?

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I do have a video about my preferred under things here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3amZKienatsZrM but in this video I'm just wearing control top tights is all 😅

[@1900serpente]

Me encanta!! Me gustaría tener una de tus prendas

[@jenniferakin7203]

excellent!!!!!!!! i love watching your videos. now i want to make some skirts for my daughter.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jennifer!

[@samh.3421]

You've always had such an incredible sense of style! Great job on these, always love to watch your videos.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sam!