Winter Skirt Sewing Plans

[@knottygnome]

you could move the camden zipper to the side instead of the back. i've thought about making this one several times and that's probably what i would do.

[@GoingGreenMom]

That's what I was thinking. I love that shape for it though.

[@LostMyThread]

Love this suggestion! Definitely a top contender now.

[@brimichellemade]

I love that you're classifying pinafores underskirts - spot on! That pink cord is amazing! More choices might not be helpful, but I'd toss in the Dulcie by Jennifer Lauren Handmade and the Pianoforte from Love Notions.

[@farmwife7944]

Back in 1969-1972 aside from my bell bottom jeans I made most of my clothes which consisted of mini dresses, mini skorts and maxi skirts and dresses. My fav by far were my mini skorts which looked like skirts with panels that made them look like wrap skirts but were so comfortable and easy to wear while not worrying about modesty issues when bending or sitting in them. I have seen similar patterns recently in the big 4 pattern catalogues. I made them in light weights wools, heavier weight cottons and corduroy. I like all of your selections but also encourage you to explore the option of making mini skorts. I grew up in New England where we had cold snowy winters but I had a heavy midi wool coat that worked hard in keeping me warm while dashing around campus in my minis. Currently I am in love with my wrap skirts. I have slowly been losing weight over the past few years and was reluctant to create clothing that would not fit in a few months unless I was committed to spending time on alterations, which is not something I care to do. Enter the wrap around skirt. They are so quick and easy to make, no fitting involved, just sew panels together, add ties or buttons to each side and presto, done. Next in my queue is a long plaid wrap around so that will take a few minutes longer to cut each panel separately in order to match plaids but nothing particularly challenging. Off topic, I also have a pattern, fabric and lace for a white blouse with an oversize collar and a red linen vest, all in all will be fun and easy and will all fit no matter what my weight.

[@Queenread82]

I remember the skorts too, they were all the rage in my school. I made some for my girls in the aughts too. (they were't as popular as the patchwork pants) Your plaid wrap skirt sounds wonderful - will it coordinate with the red linen vest? Sounds like an outfit!

[@farmwife7944]

@ yes, perfectly. I bought the linen from Fabrics-Store here in the US. They have a fairly large selection of various shades of red, the one I was looking for leaned to orange, like fall leaves red, and they had it in their medium weight with super fast shipping.

[@LostMyThread]

I'm loving this skort idea. I'll have to look around and see what patterns I can find. Such a fun idea and very practical!

[@Jenns_creative_spot]

Love all of your ideas! My top favorite ideas are the True Bias Blair skirt, the Nina Lee Camden pinafore with buttons in the front, and the Itch to Stitch skirt for that gorgeous blue corduroy fabric. Happy sewing!

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you so much! I can see all of those in my mind, and they look great. I'll have to see where my instinct takes me!

[@marial2147]

Hi Theresa, I am a former Chi-town RN (still a maternal child RN, lol) . Have you thought about the Sew-different Scoop pinafore? I have made it in a micro corduroy and LOVE IT! No zipper, partially lined, and HUGE, cool pockets. There are a few helpful sew alongs and tutorials to assist with the pocket construction. Can’t wait to see what you decide to make!

[@LostMyThread]

I wasn't aware of that one! Another great option - thanks!

[@dandiolvera3215]

One of your pinafore inspiration photos looks just like the Nina Lee pinafore and it has a full front zip. You have enough sewing experience to hack the pattern to get exactly what you’re looking for. Go for it!

[@LostMyThread]

I think you're right that I could make it work. I like so many of the inspo photos that it's paralyzing!!

[@juliemulie1805]

That paisley corduroy fabric became a blouse for hunting for me. That was over 10 years ago! No, don’t still have it because I got fatter. Enjoyed your video today. Had not seen you before. Subscribed.

[@LostMyThread]

Oh wow, the same fabric? That's so fun! Glad you enjoyed the video enough to stick around!

[@annastebelskyj580]

If you want to use that pattern with the back invisible zipper, you can just change it to a railroaded or placketed side zip. I think I saw that the pocket goes into the side seam, so a placketed zipper would help control the bulk that would be added to the seam. That depends on how malleable the needle cord is, though; if it's very thin and pliable, you may be able to just do a railroaded zipper. I've got some skirts on my winter sewing docket, but they're in a more sculptural vein. I'm really loving the concept of layering short skirts over long skirts right now, so I want some additional mid-thigh to knee length options in stiff, asymmetrical designs to layer over my floofier maxi skirts.

[@LostMyThread]

Great suggestions, thanks! And layered skirts/dresses over long skirts are such a cool look. I'd love to experiment with that one day!

[@geminigem599]

I liked everything 😮but the brown long skirt with black turtleneck n scarf n black boots were awesome n would look great on u…😊

[@LostMyThread]

So good, right??? You see my vision!

[@karendiesner5008]

Thanks for another great video, Theresa! I really like the Itch to Stitch Quebrada skirt and nearly bought the pattern myself - but then I bought the Love Notions Encore skirt as it is similar but has pretty, slanted front pockets. I’m also making a pinafore in the style you’ve been looking at - it is on sale at the moment as it has just been released by Love Notions - the Pianoforte Jumper. One option has a zip down the front! I think it’s really cool, so it could be worth a look especially for you, as LN always include a full bust option too. I’m looking forward to seeing what you make xx

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you - I feel a little spoiled for choice with options. Making a decision is definitely the hardest part!!

[@seekercons4498]

You are definitely inspiring me to make a long winter skirt! I say avoid outfits you need help getting in and out of. You will reach for it less just because you know you will need to wait for help to get (un)dressed. The Elmwood in that cotton broadcloth would be amazing! But I like it in the paisley print too. Let that fabric shine and don't hide any details behind the print. And the navy corduroy will be beautiful as a Quebrada. Whatever you choose, here for the journey!!

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you! Making the decisions is the hardest part!

[@threadtherapy251]

I love the Camden skirt- never made the pinafore. I’ve got a short denim one and a short dark green needle cord one and I wear them all the time. I love a short skirt/thick tights/boot combo. Great plans 😊

[@LostMyThread]

I might end up going for a Camden skirt and pinafore!

[@CreativityFromBlueberryH-wo3gu]

Good luck with your choices! I’m terrible making decisions for myself, too. I love all your fabric choices!

[@LostMyThread]

I feel like I have too many good choices. I'm pretty sure I'll be happy with whatever I choose, though!

[@addiekl]

I've gone through phases wearing winter skirts, lately not so much, but I love the look of them. Comfort and ease is important to me too so I'd go for the hack of the Pattern Scout dress with a front zipper or buttons, lined. As for the skirts, I'm biased because I have the Blair skirt and I think all the versions are super cute (denim is my first plan but corduroy would be great too)! I like the longer Salida because I used to have a denim skirt in a similar silhouette, and was surprised at how much I wore that skirt with so many things. Thanks for sharing!

[@LostMyThread]

Some denim skirts are definitely in my future!

[@whatnow8362]

I love the idea of a mini corduroy skirt. I think the wrap skirt you showed is actually a skort which would be super cute too.

[@LostMyThread]

Oh wow, I didn't consider that. Very cute idea. Maybe for next year!

[@midniteb1ue]

I love my corduroy short Blair skit. It turned out so well. Highly recommend!

[@LostMyThread]

It looks like a great pattern. I definitely need one in my life!

[@jacquelineleibfried4691]

Really enjoy your channel and all your thoughts.

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you so much!

[@marinaurazova4031]

Love the pinafore dress with the back zipper! if the zipper is inconvenient in that place, just put it in the side seam - this alteration is very easy to do

[@LostMyThread]

Such a great tip!

[@frautamarabach]

I am wearing the Marilla Walker Evans Skirt as I am watching your video, and I am planning on making another one. it is such a great A-line maxi skirt. you also made me reopen the ivy pinafore pattern which I have been planning on making for ages. and the I got stuck on the merchant an mills page. the Whittaker and the Margo are on my wish list. a bit on the pricier side, but m&m have such good instructions. so much planning, so little sewing (sighs)

[@Ginevra345]

I vote for the Camden pinafore with bronze/gold metal snaps down the front and get rid of back zip ☺️

[@LostMyThread]

Ooh, that's a really fun idea!

[@cassafrass098]

I think the mauve corduroy would look really great as a Camden, and moving the opening to a size zip could be a potential solution. Other than that, I can't wait to see everything else you make up this winter, you've picked some great fabrics!

[@LostMyThread]

That's a great solution and making me seriously consider that pattern now!!

[@ChristineSewsALot]

Wool can be tricky. I do like the corduroy skirts. I think the shorter skirt will look great on you. I love the Camden. I like the Salida better than the Itch to Stitch because it has a waistband.

[@LostMyThread]

Problem is that I want it all!! Deciding is the hardest part.

[@vanessajackson5595]

Thank you for another great video. I’ve just finished Mcallls M7475 (view B) in Khaki babycord which I cut out over a year ago but then lost interest. I’ve never really been a skirt person and it surprises me how much I’m loving this make.

[@LostMyThread]

They're not quite a dress, not quite a skirt. Really fun to wear!

[@LotusDecal]

Oh you diamond, I've spent hours today looking for a skirt exactly like this on all the independent sites and you found it :D

[@amandarichardson1169]

Love your plans. Have you seen the Love Notions Pianoforte Jumper (a pinafore dress) pattern that’s just out. I really like that style and wonder if it would suit you. Full bust option too 😀

[@LostMyThread]

I have - just after I made this video. More to consider!

[@carolynward5567]

I think the paisley would work with a plainer skirt. One of the reasons you like the one with the pockets is all the details,which as you said, would get lost in the paisley. The dress with the back zip wouldn't be that hard to change to a front zip if you really like the style. The Hana dress wouldn't be that hard to change into a jumper style as that other person did if you wanted. I love the material for the longer skirt. I like both of the patterns, so I'm not much help there.

[@LostMyThread]

It's true - maybe I need two of the shorter skirt with pockets. A plainer as well as the paisley. Decisions, decisions!

[@carolynward5567]

@@LostMyThread Or use a plainer pattern for the paisley so the paisley can be the star.

[@mjdevorick8404]

Salina in navy!!

[@debranorton6434]

Very cute ideas! I'm wondering about the Camden pinafore, what if you put the invisible zipper on the side? It would be easier to get in and out of it.

[@Smidjin]

I agree, moving an invisible zip to a different seam is a simple adjustment and I think it would be super cute in that corduroy.

[@LostMyThread]

That's a great suggestion and is bumping that one up on my list now!

[@ExpressionistMakes]

Very inspirational, Theresa! I think you should make a short Blair and a long Salida because you seem to like those silhouettes and would probably enjoy trying 2 different patterns.

[@LostMyThread]

I think you're right. I expect that's what I'll do. I'm just so drawn to both!

[@lynngates1662]

Hi Lisa, some of those skirts looked reeeally familiar haha. A couple of the shorter skirts looked exactly like the Seamwork Leonora skirt - of which I've made 2, one in denim and one in corduroy. I got the True Bias Blair skirt (I love the longer A-line, too!) printed up last winter, and I've got some corduroy set aside for the longer version 😍. The Closet Core Crew Slate skirt has the same shape with different style lines. It will be fun seeing all your new skirts! I think I've got that same barkcloth!! I got it from Hart's fabrics in 2017, it's a Cloud 9 Organic barkcloth - or else it's the same print on a different fabric. How funny!

[@LostMyThread]

It's definitely the Cloud 9 barkcloth, though I got it from a fabric swap. I recognized it, so it felt like a great find! I haven't seen the Seamwork one. I'll check it out!

[@Almagemini]

If you didn't want to hack the pinafore you could with the Peppermint Magazine Button up dress. With the princess seams for shaping lined and in a warmer fabric I think if would be really cute as the pinafore option.

[@LostMyThread]

That's a really cute idea. I hadn't even considered that pattern!

[@debsmadethis]

ooo I was going to say this one. I made it in Ramie and it came up a little big but that may have been the fabric !

[@barbarawarner4645]

You can’t beat a lined wool skirt in the winter and if you get a blend you can often wash it. Corduroy skirts are next especially if you line them. With tights, you’re set. Velvet is lovely but is more difficult to sew. Looking foreword to your choices.

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you! I know whatever I make will get a ton of wear. It's such a big gap in my wardrobe!

[@Queenread82]

I've been eyeing some paisley needlecord - there is some on the Minerva site as well as etsy. I love love love paisley corduroy. It is such a 70s vibe

[@LostMyThread]

It's so fun!

[@GoingGreenMom]

The one you put in short and long skirt but really love the short version is super 70s vibes. It looks very you in the short one.

[@LostMyThread]

Totally agree!! I'm so excited to make that one.

[@buzzi2k]

If I get time, I would really like to make the two skirts from Sewing Therapy in a wool blend - the Hanbok wrap skirt looks like it would be particularly warm, but it would be to be a fabric that would take all those pleats

[@LostMyThread]

Ooh yes, that would be so nice!!

[@marygreen7225]

Very interesting video Theresa, thank you. I think the Itch to Stitch skirt would be lovely in the navy cord.

[@LostMyThread]

I completely agree. It would accentuate the lines, too. Such a tough decision!

[@glorywipfli247]

True Bias and Itch to Stitch long skirt patterns are both lovely Yes to the first question that disappeared from my response. Not the Pipi Pinafore.

[@LostMyThread]

Thank you so much!

[@ZeldaSews]

I love all the skirts Theresa ❤️

[@LostMyThread]

Me too, that's the problem! 😂

[@nancyhilborn885]

Great choices you are contemplating. You are spot on with the pencil skirt and broadcloth fabric pairing. My thoughts on the other options are a bit different. I think you should make the Nina Lee pinafore in the paisley needlecord if you have enough fabric. I would alter it to an exposed front zip. It will be easy to get on and off and will compliment the vertical lines of the princess seams and extended pockets. The navy blue cord with a bit of stretch would be perfect for the Blair short skirt with the pocket detail. The stretch will make it more comfortable to sit in and the solid colour will let the details shine. The blush pink soft cord would be beautiful as a True Bias Salida. It will have a bit more drape and look soft and feminine in the longer length. I look forward to seeing what your final decisions are. I love all these pieces as winter wardrobe staples.

[@LostMyThread]

I wish I had enough Paisley needlecord for a pinafore. That would be incredible. Sadly, I have just under 2 meters. Not enough. And I actually have quite a bit of the navy cord. Maybe a short and a long skirt? 🤔 You are not helping my indecision, but I really appreciate your suggestions!

[@nancyhilborn885]

@LostMyThread adding to your dilemma was not my intent 🙃

[@LostMyThread]

@nancyhilborn885 haha, it's all a mess of plans, so don't worry

[@what_valerie_makes]

I have the Blair skirt next on my list to sew up in this amazing burgundy corduroy! Just deciding if I want to do the mini or the midi…

[@LostMyThread]

It looks so stinking cute. I might end up making two. 😬

[@elizabethmoore6918]

Have you seen the Love Notions Encore Skirt? The A-line midi version is lovely. They all have wonderful pockets that are built into the front side panels.

[@LostMyThread]

I need to check that one out. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@danicourtnay]

I had a faux wrap skirt like that mini skirt you showed. The underlayer was fully attached at both side seams. I actually found that the faux wrap part was a bit warmer due to the double layer of fabric.

[@LostMyThread]

I absolutely love that idea! Maybe for next year.

[@chlomo2618]

For dresses with CB zippers, have you ever tried threading a long narrow ribbon through the ring connecting the zipper pull to the zipper, tying it, and then using the ribbon to pull the zip up and down? If you choose a pretty matching ribbon, it can be a nice feature. I tend to do it when I'm making bodice toiles and have to don and doff the toile a lot when trying to get the fit right. It makes it so much easier to pull the zip up and down.

[@LostMyThread]

I would want to try that with a muslin first because I have struggled to get the zipper to move easily with the ribbon on more fitted silhouettes. Fabrics twist and bunch up as I'm trying to pull it, and the zipper goes nowhere. Totally sound concept, but it's a bit hit and miss for me. 😕

[@Queenread82]

I think you should do a Hana hack for your pinafore. Definitely not the back zip one. I like the Itch to Stitch long skirt or the Cashmerette - I like an A line or slight flare for corduroy though - either that or a short skirt/skort. If you like a pencil skirt though, you should make what you think you are more likely to wear.

[@LostMyThread]

I'm honestly so indecisive because I like the sound of them all!

[@Queenread82]

@ 😂

[@silk_n_vintage_etc2643]

Put an exposed zip up the front of the Camden, it will look cool and you can do it up easily.

[@LostMyThread]

It would look super cool, wouldn't it?

[@dianemontavon5670]

Have you seen the new pattern from Love Notions it's called Pianoforte Pinafore. You can put a zipper down the front or no zipper at all. It's really cute and on sale right now.

[@soufpawed]

I was just about to comnent on the pianoforte! A corduroy pinafore was no something on my radar but now i feel like my winter wardrobe needs that immediately. And the pockets intrigue me. The comparison of gloves/mittens to trousers/skirt is brilliant.

[@dianemontavon5670]

@@soufpawed I don't wear dresses and I ordered this pattern because I think I would wear it with some tights. I'd make it knee length for me....I'm 70 years old but just love this pattern.

[@LostMyThread]

This pattern came out at just the right moment. I was clearly a week early when I filmed this! 😆

[@india1422]

I am making a cord Ava skirt( SOI) and lining it with Viscose. I'm going to make a cord Salida skirt. I have some flannel which I bought to make a winter underskirt. I will be layering it with a bamboo/viscose slip. Both to stop the flannel sticking to my tights but also because layered underskirts add to winter warmth. I am also planning a pinafore. I can't remember the pattern name -it is a JLH pattern but it's the one with the zip down the front. I love centre back zips to the side, invisible ones included. I stitch a couple of inches down from the armhole, I don't like an opening under my armhole. I find this works really well.

[@LostMyThread]

Your skirt ideas sound great. And luxurious! I am definitely considering moving the zipper on the Camden Pinafore. Such a great idea!

[@barbarawarner4645]

When a pattern has a zip in the back, you can usually move it to the front and even make the zipper a fashion statement.

[@LostMyThread]

I am seriously considering this!

[@ireneparker8253]

Love Notions just came out with a pinafore pattern. It is full coverage with a front zipper option. I like the idea of corduroy or denim. I am struggling with the idea of wool also. So many choices. I just can't justify the whole dry cleaning thing.

[@LostMyThread]

Oof, I know. Dry cleaning... Will I ever go to the trouble? I need to find a washable blend!

[@Queenread82]

Just a note about skirts - I know you wear a lot of dresses so this won't be new information but I when my shoulders were injured (still not great) getting up and down was difficult and getting up and down with a long skirt was worse, especially in boots. Boots are great but knee boots can be a bit awkward (my fave, of course 😂). So if you choose to make a long cord skirt think about a style that is easy to do the things you need to do.

[@LostMyThread]

That's a really good consideration. Thanks!

[@peggyeagan9108]

Love Notions patterns has a new pinafore dress pattern that you would look wonderful in. It's also on sale at the moment

[@LostMyThread]

I've just seen it. Definitely another one to consider!

[@MsChaosbutterfly]

I love the broadcloth with the pink tulips. I'd be curious what it would look like made up as something that flares out and has some interesting yoke shaping, like the Salida skirt. That particular pattern would break up the print, but then you could do some interesting print placement. IDK just a thought.

[@LostMyThread]

Unfortunately, I don't have enough fabric for that. I think the print would be a bit loud for me in a longer skirt, too. Sometimes these things work out how they were meant to!

[@Queenread82]

That short wrap skirt looked like a skort to me. Basically shorts with a panel in front. When we were kids the skorts had both a front and back panel. They are basically a faux wrap skirt.

[@LostMyThread]

I absolutely love that idea!

[@sabinerosais1231]

❤❤❤❤

[@LostMyThread]

💞💞

[@failuretosew]

Have you tried adding a ribbon to the zipper to give you a bit more manoeuvrability? I had this on a wetsuit and it really helped me - might be worth a go? I also tried the hana hack and made a corduroy pinafore! Stupidly I didn't do a muslin and decided not to lower the neckline - it fits fine but it looks super frumpy on me. The fabric seller also sent me the wrong colour and I don't realise for ages so its a really unflattering colour too, and I've had to chalk that one up to experience (mine is mustard but needed to be chartreuse). If you get the fit right though I do think it's a more wintery design than the NL one, a lot more room to wear things underneath.

[@LostMyThread]

The ribbon on a zipper hasn't always worked for me - especially with more fitted things that might pull or bunch up as I'm zipping. For the right project, it's perfect. So glad to hear that you tried the Hana hack and still recommend it! Of course, it sucks to hear that yours didn't work out. Buying fabric online is so convenient but a bit of a gamble. I hope you try it again!

[@lisa101lisa4]

Have you seen the new pinafore pattern from love notions ? It comes with an optional centre front zipper

[@LostMyThread]

I have, yes. Came out just after I made this video. I didn't need more options! 😂

[@pamelaliebelt9967]

Have you seen the Love Notions Encore skirt pattern? It has several different lengths and styles.

[@LostMyThread]

I need to give that another look!

[@Southlagal26]

Do something different for the pinafore!

[@LostMyThread]

There are so many options around!!