This versatile pattern by Amanda Walker is a wardrobe must-have this season, with its midi length and striking print. It’s simple to sew, with just three pattern pieces, and features a subtle slit at the centre front and a concealed zip side closure. Make in a statement cotton and team with a cami for an evening out, or choose a plain crepe or lightweight wool to match with a sweater for boardroom chic.
ESSENTIALS
Fabric, 1m (150cm) Fusible interfacing Concealed zip, 22cm Hook and bar
SUGGESTED FABRICS
Lightweight wovens with up to 10% stretch, such as stretch cotton
SIZES
Finished measurements
Small Medium Large Waist 68cm 72cm 87cm Hip
CUTTING GUIDE
Front: cut two
Back: cut one on the fold
Waistband: cut one in main fabric, and one in interfacing
Use a 1.5cm seam allowance, except for the centre-front seam which is 2cm.
1 Download the pattern at sewmag.co.uk, then print out and follow the cutting guide. Cut out the pieces from fabric and neaten the side and centre front seam edges by overlocking or zig zag stitching. Sew the darts at the top of the front skirt pieces and press them towards the centre front. Repeat on the back skirt and press the darts towards the centre back.
2 Stitch the centre-front seams right sides together from the waist edge, as far as the notch for the split. Back tack to reinforce. Sew the front and back skirts right sides together at the side seams. On the left side seam, stitch as far as the notch, leaving a gap at the top for the zip. Press all the seams open.
3 To insert a concealed zip, fold and press the seam allowance along the side opening. Open out the seam allowance and with the right side of the fabric facing up, place the opened zip face down matching the teeth to the crease line in the seam allowance. Pin in place.
4 If you are using a concealed zipper foot, place the teeth of the zip into the groove and as you stitch, the foot will uncurl the teeth and the stitching will appear alongside. If you are using a normal zipper foot, you will need to uncurl the teeth with your fingertips. Stitch to the top of the side seam. Back s
