Perfecting the Pencil

 I've made a few pencil skirts. It's due to that ongoing thought process that won't let you stop until you get it just right. Please tell me that I'm not the only seamstress that does this. Is it a bit compulsive? I'm sure. But I can finally say, I'm happy, I'm moving on, I'm over it...

 The final pencil skirt is my favorite. I found the lining fabric at the thrift-store. It's silk and it is amazing.

The belt is a re-cycled neck tie.

sweater, jcrew, thrifted

tee, screen print, my friend

skirt, self-made, vintage wool

belt, up-cycled, vintage

McCall 6256

 McCall 6256

 I made this 1940 pattern using 1950 vintage fabric.  I found the fabric at a thrift store.  It was a small piece but by careful layout during cutting, I managed to barely squeeze it out of the the 35" width.

 The top has self-covered buttons down the back.

I love the fabric, and while it is a little more pastel than color that I am generally drawn to, I think it will be fun for Spring.

E-Z Self-Fabric Buttons

 In progress: McCall 6256

The kit for the self-fabric buttons is so cute. On the front it makes the claim - make them round or flat. When you turn the card over to get the instructions the flat version is made by smashing them flat. copyright 1957 by E-Z Buckle, Inc. 

Finished: Covered lampshade with granny chic crochet edging.

the instructions for crochet edgings can be found here

the covered lampshade tutorial I used  

Tulip pocket wrap-dress

 Working out the construction bugs. Another Swirl knock-off.

 Little different pocket detail.

In action. Modeled by my sister-in-law Jenny. 

I've already started another. :)

vintage sheet apron

 vintage sheet + embroidered tablecloth + section of crochet trim from a curtain + stripey blue bias tape

and...three vintage mismatched buttons

pattern: self-drafted