I think I found it. The perfect style of skirt for that wonderful swing. The kind of drape that makes it look like the skirt is moving, even when it is not. See what I mean, in the picture above?
Another swing test, on a swing. Passed.
The pattern is “circular skirt”, sewn in four bias-cut pieces + the waistband, from this new Japanese sewing book, Clothes to Wear Every day for Girls (まいにち着る女の子の服) by Yuki Katagai, a very talented and prolific designer, patternmaker and owner of Pattern Label.
I have to say that I do not buy very many sewing and craft books these days. Here is another secret: not all Japanese sewing books are that great. But often the styling and details on the clothing are enough to make me want to buy the book, even if only for a few patterns that I think I might make. See, for about $14, there are thirty patterns, the clothing ones come in four sizes, and because the patterns are traced, they can be used over and over again, as your child grows. Love that. The Japanese books present such a great value for the quality and quantity of patterns for the price.
In this full-color photographed book there are patterns for: many one piece dresses (pintuck, frill, square neck, etc.), two bags, several hair accessories, tunics, smocks, leggings, culottes, button-down blouses, a cap, pants, shorts, camisole tops, regular and pleated skirts, a hooded jacket, and a t-shirt. Also, three mini essays with hints and tips, a two-page spread on coordinating different looks, a step-by-step lesson with thirty-three photos on how to make the “frill one piece”, and another lesson on sewing with knit fabrics. See what I mean about value?
A friend gave me an extra hand-me-down hat and backpack for my younger daughter. Though she does not go to school yet, everyone we see on the street thinks she does! With the matching hats and backpacks, the earth rotates on its axis properly for her once more. Whew.
6 responses so far ↓
FBeenz // April 16, 2009 at 1:23 pm |
Beautiful skirt. I am soon going to make one for my daughter.
rosieroyalty // April 16, 2009 at 2:51 pm |
awesome job on the skirt. circle skirts are so fun :)
Pauline // April 16, 2009 at 3:33 pm |
They just look too cute :-)
K // April 17, 2009 at 10:13 am |
The girls are too cute!
I agree the pattern books are so beautifully put together, I adore my little collection. We really have nothing like them here. I’ve had such fun sewing from them- thanks for showing me a new one! :)
Holly Matsuo // April 17, 2009 at 11:40 pm |
Another good girls’ pattern book recommendation-thanks!
It’s always interesting to hear about your life in Japan. So different (school preparations) from here in northern California but some things (younger sisters!) are the same.
If you are so inclined, I’d love to hear more about your favorite pattern books for girls. Thanks!
Aida // April 18, 2009 at 4:32 am |
came here from true up. your work is beautiful!