I love giving handmade gifts at any time of year, but somehow the ones I give at Christmas always seem extra special. With a new bub to look after, I decided to keep the list of handmade items rather short this year.

While wandering around my local Spotlight, my husband spotted a brightly coloured, mexican inspired fabric, and suggested I make a skirt for his sister. I knew I didn’t have a pattern at home that I could use, so I also bought New Look 6496. The pattern includes a Channel inspired jacket, a mini skirt, and two styles of shorts.

GARMENT DETAILS

• Pattern brand/name/number: New Look 6496, purchased from Spotlight
• Style, size: View “B”, size 14
• Fabric: “Mexican Poncho” (cotton/acrylic/polyester), purchased at Spotlight, white polyester lining from my stash
• Notions: 7 inch jean zipper, thread
• Modifications/alterations:
  • Moved the zipper from the side seam to the centre back seam
  • Used an exposed jean zipper instead of an invisible zipper
  • Added iron-on fusing to the facing
  • Drafted a lining pattern to attach to the facing

My final thoughts… Even though I had to draft my own lining, I feel that this is a good pattern to have in your library. I would suggest that you cut one size smaller than your measurements, as there is a total ease of 14cm worked into the pattern. Also, I’m really not sure what kind of block New Look are working off, as my sister-in-law certainly isn’t a size 16, which is the size the pattern suggested I use based on her measurements. If you’re unsure what size to make, I’d suggest sewing up a toile first to avoid any disappointment.

I think the skirt turned out really well, even though the style is simple, it’s the fabric that makes the statement. It’s the perfect skirt for a hot summer day!

Mitty xox