The skirt in my mind is picture perfect in style and fit. If I could snap my fingers and make the skirt appear, I would. Instead, I find my way to a workable sewing pattern by trial and error—agonizing over every small step. The sewing part doesn’t scare me. But I’m in over my head in the garment design arena.
A not-as-simple layered tiered skirt replaces my original idea of a simple three-tiered skirt. The new design has a fitted yoke at the top of the skirt (and a zipper) instead of a super-simple elastic gathered waist. All this, so the distinctive borders of each tier will flutter freely, and not be trapped in seams. The trouble is worth it. I can see the finished skirt in my mind’s eye. It is phenomenal! The fabric is handwoven, made for a purpose. This is a skirt worth waiting for.
You were skillfully made for a purpose. Through many trials and errors, lessons in success and failure, we discover why we are here. God created you for this very time. Trust him to guide you, especially through agonizing moments. By his grace, he forms us into the phenomenal masterpiece that he has always had in mind.
May you walk with purpose.
Love,
Karen
I can’t wait to see the skirt!
Hi Beth, It shouldn’t be too long now. I’m not going to rush it, but I’m not dragging my feet, either.
Thanks,
Karen
This looks promising
Hi Elisabeth, It’s going to work! There is less than an inch of handwoven fabric to spare, so I will measure twice (or more), cut once. I am proceeding very carefully, and full of hope.
Thanks for your help and encouragement,
Karen
God is so very very good. thank you. es
Ellen, He is, indeed!
Karen
Good morning Karen. Your system is admirable. Research. Sample. Do it!!
Years ago a bride and mom came with a bridesmaid commission. Veveteen bodice. Full gathered plaid taffeta skirts for a winter wedding.
In this case the planning was already done. Not a thimblefull of fabric was left over.
God gave us the ability to use his resources. We are indeed blessed.
Nannette
Hi Nannette, Sometimes the research part takes longer than I want. It always helps to keep the end in mind.
Thanks,
Karen
Hi, Karen! I love your posts! They are so inspirational and real! I’m thrilled to know there is a design software for us non-production oriented weavers to use! I’ve struggled with making my own patterns for years! Can you tell me a little more about Garment Designer? pros/cons? Thanks again!
Hi Marilynn, I have been very happy with Garment Designer. The only downside is the learning curve, which is true for any software. Fortunately, there are instructional videos on their website, and they offer inexpensive webinars. The webinars I have taken have been very thorough and helpful. Having this software made this skirt project possible for me.
Thank you for your encouraging words!
Karen
Thank you, Karen – I’ll look into it more. I know I’ll have a learning curve, but it’s worth it considering how much time I spend trying to get a pattern to fit if I’m just using my own ingenuity!
Well said!
I have wondered where the skirt was! Look forward to seeing how you put it together.
Hi Tobie, I look forward to showing you! I’m glad you have not forgotten the skirt.
Karen
I love watching you work through a problem, Karen. Thank you for sharing your process.
Hi Gabriela, It’s nice to hear from you. We learn a lot through problems! Weaving and sewing includes much problem solving, doesn’t it?
All the best,
Karen