Friday, September 4, 2009

Labor Day Weekend crafting

Since Chris and I aren't heading to West Virginia for some camping, rafting and visiting a friend this weekend, I'm going to take the opportunity to finish up my last summer project -- a skirt.

My grandma gave me a bunch of fabric from her stash lately, and besides the shorts I completed earlier this summer, I had plans to make a skirt.

I'm also in the process of teaching myself how to draft patterns. I'm excited to embark on this adventure and can't wait to see how the ideas in my head translate onto paper.

I'm using Rene Bergh's "How to make your own patterns: An easy step-by-step guide to making over 60 patterns." You can buy a copy here, although I have a different edition.

I haven't picked up a pencil and paper yet, but reading through the instructions gives me hope. I didn't realize how easy patterns can be made, just using various measurements of your body. I figured it would be much more complicated.

Besides basic skirt, shirt and trouser patterns, the book also gives you instructions on how to make different bodice details, such as tucking, darts, gathers and cowl, boat and v-necks.

I'll let you know how my new adventure goes into creating my own creations. The theme for my first designs is wild columbine . . . a beautiful wildflower you can find growing in rocks and crevices here in the mountains and elsewhere.

My favorite is the red columbine with a yellow center. Here's a good photo that shows you the color. It's so striking! I'm surprised such a color combination exists in real life.