Long Knit Skirt With Center Front Gather Details
I love a good knit skirt, and Simplicity Patterns 9788 has some nice details. It will make a nice addition to my summer and cruisewear wardrobe.
Techniques covered in this video:
- Stitching channels for gathering
- Make and turn cording
- Understitching waistband facings
- Improving pattern construction methods
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The Sewing Pattern
Simplicity 9788 is a long knit skirt. It has a side zipper (not really sure why), a side slit, and center front detail. It is designed to sit just below the waist. The cut is nice, but I have a few issues with some of the construction methods — these can be fixed for a better fit and easier construction — see below.
It comes in sizes 10-12-14-16-18-20-22 in one envelope. It offers two lengths and two gathering versions in the front (one with a peek-a-boo oval).
This is shown as an easy-to-sew pattern. Who are they kidding. If a beginner took on this pattern project, they may never sew again. The construction is not presented in a manner that would be easy to understand for a beginner sewists.
The Fabric
I used Joann Apple Green knit. I love the fabric, it has a soft hand and a beautiful drape.
Apple Green Fabric
It stitched together nicely using a jersey needle and my knit stitch. The fabric is light and does roll at the edges – but that is to be expected with a budget friendly knit.
Alternative Fabrics
I like this John Louden Premium Cotton Jersey in Chartreuse. It would be a fun skirt to wear.
Interfacing
Stretch interfacing is available at:
Minerva — Stretch Interfacing
Sewing With Sandi Etsy Shop — Stretch Interfacing
Simplicity Sewing Patterns Issues – 9788
I had a few issues with this pattern. Nothing we can’t improve upon. I plan to create another version of this skirt with my pattern hacks — I’ll keep you posted. As a seasoned sewist, I found myself with my seam ripper in hand ready to un pick several seams.
Why is there a zip in a knit skirt? The zipper tape is too heavy and the teeth too ridged, they interfere with the nice drape of the fabric. The entire point of sewing with knits is to enjoy the soft style.
How To Sew An Invisible Zipper
I have the same issue with using bias tape for the gathering channels. You have plenty of fashion fabric lying around, why do home sewing patterns always recommend purchased bias tape. The fabric is already a knit — who needs stiff manufactured bias tape — NOT ME!
Home seamstresses want and deserve to create fashionable clothing that looks like it came from a couture sew house.
Let’s talk about the facings. The front panel has a fold down facing and the back panel has a sewed on facing. I’m okay with that process if you are adding elastic to the back. However, here they have you sew the zipper before you sew the back facing. You are left with a zipper that has one facing and not the other — too confusing.
The Sew Along
Sew Along videos are a wonderful way to get a true visual on how to construct a particular pattern. It helps to see step by step instructions when learning a new sewing project.
Do You Love Skirts?
Simplicity Patterns 9788 is a fun, stylish skirt. I love to create fashionable clothing so I will make a few edits on my next version. The look and easy wear of knit skirts with fun details are perfect to update your wardrobe collection. Up next — Simplicity Patterns 9789, a rouched top in the same apple green knit.
If you love skirts, you will love my round up of 12 different skirts styles you should sew.
Happy Sewing,
Sandi
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Here is what I know about fashion. Everyone’s taste is different. The opinions expressed here are mine alone. I’m just a girl who loves to sew. Here is a list of some of my favorite tools, techniques, and sources.
21 Tips To Take Your DIY Garment From Homemade To High End
Barrett’s Custom Design YouTube Sew Alongs, tips, tricks, and a few laughs
Sewing With Sandi Etsy Shop filled with patterns and other sewing items
Bernette 38 Sewing MachineRowenta Steam Iron for the best finishes
Simplicity Patterns 9788 Review
