When browsing the internet I have often purchased fabrics from an eBay seller, J J Textiles based in Manchester. Recently I ordered a pretty Blue background floral printed Viscose but when it arrived, unfortunately it was the wrong print.
Carmen Teal Blue floral print viscose
I contacted the seller and they immediately sent the correct print free of charge. So now I had 8 metres of Teal Blue background floral printed viscose to ‘play’ with. I used some of the above to line the bodice of my ‘Jane’ pinafore dress I also bound all the seam edges with this print. There was still over 3 metres of this design left and I was delighted to be able to get a long sleeved blouse and a Jenna skirt cut from the fabric. Now there is absolutely nothing left!
Jenna front view
Jenna back view
According to Seamwork magazine separates can add great variety to any wardrobe, and a simple gathered skirt like Jenna effortlessly marries cute style and comfortable fit. Jenna’s elastic-back waistband and in-seam pockets make this skirt as practical as it is stylish.
The ‘Jenna’ skirt is fast becoming my TNT skirt pattern. Another time when I use it with a heavier weight fabric I plan to hack it with buttons down the front but for this lovely drape viscose I have stuck to the standard configuration.
I cut a size 22 for the main skirt panels but a 20 for the waistbands and elastic. The front waistband has 2 sets of fusible interfacing but as the rear waistband has to be gathered with the elastic insertion, this is simply the 2 layers of viscose.
All seams were finished with French seams, including the in-seam pockets. As I was so short of fabric, the pocket bags are made from a patchwork of plain cotton with a band of the viscose on the rear pocket bag just in case it shows when I put my hands in my pockets!
The elastic insertion was still fiddly but it does give a comfortable and stylish finish to the skirt. Next time I will have a think and see if there is an easier way to complete this part of the construction.
The hem was finished with a narrow double turn top-stitched in place.
Jenna skirt and coordinating long sleeved blouse
The skirt will be a great addition to my wardrobe for every Season. It can be worn with the coordinating blouse, a plain tee shirt or plain blouse (when made!) or sweater.
For cold weather – Skirt plus plain polo neck top
For warmer weather – Skirt plus plain short sleeved tee
#02 2021 completed 10th January 2021