Fancy a closer look at the patterns in my new book Stretch?
As well as showing you how to sew with knit fabrics, the book takes you step-by-step through making six patterns (included in the back), as well as multiple variations so you can make them in lots of different styles. I know how much you love sewing patterns, so over the next couple of weeks I'm going to share more about each one, starting with the Bibi skirt today!
For the first project in the book, I wanted to design something that was quick and easy to make for readers who are new to knits, and which works well in simple-to-sew low stretch fabrics. The Bibi pencil skirt is a great confidence-building project for newbies, and a satisfyingly speedy make for more experienced stitchers. This is one of those projects that you can whip up in a morning and wear out that afternoon - yasss!
The skirt has a sleek ‘n’ sexy, curve-hugging shape that’s great for dressing up or down, while the knit fabric makes it feel super comfortable to wear (secret pyjamas, guys!). Wear it with the Freya sweater and heels for bossing it at the office, or throw on a T-shirt and trainers for a Saturday brunch date.
It works well in knit fabric that is medium-weight and relatively stable, such as ponte di roma, double knit or rib knit with at least 10% crosswise stretch (the book shows you how to measure this). This kind of fabric will skim over your curves rather than showing up every lady lump and booty bump ;)
Make it in one fabric for a wardrobe staple that goes with lots of different tops, or mix and match colours and prints on the four panels and waistband.
But Bibi isn't just a skirt! We've also included a bib pattern piece to turn it into a slim fitting pinafore. I love love love this one!
It has cute crossover straps at the back, and you can add buttons for a pop of colour (no buttonholes needed, they're just for show). You'll need 1.7m (2 yards) of fabric to make the pinafore version.
The book also shows you how to customise your Bibi skirt by adding button tabs at the waist, and sewing a saucy split at the knee. You could totally add the tabs to other skirt, dress or trouser patterns too, including those made in woven fabrics. The split is sewn with mitred corners to create a lovely tidy finish.
The patterns are included in the book printed on full scale sheets - no need to download them. The sheets are double sided, and some of the pieces are overlapping so you'll need to trace your size onto paper, or you could trace them directly onto your fabric with dressmaker's carbon and a tracing wheel.
There are eight sizes included, from UK 6 to 20 / US 2 - 16 / EUR 34 - 48 - you can see the measurements on the sizing chart.
The mock neck sweater, stripey top and roll neck sweater shown in these pics are the Freya pattern, also included in the book - I'll tell you more about that soon!
I'd love to see what you make with the book! Share your Bibi skirts and pinafores with us on Instagram @TillyButtons with the hashtags #StretchSewingBook and #SewingBibi so we can see. Can't wait :)
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Stretch! is published by Quadrille (Hardie Grant)
Photography: Ellie Smith
Model: Emily Tan / Zeena Shah / Alexandra Bruce
Hair and make up: Danni Hooker
Styling: Andie Redman + Tilly Walnes
