Taroko Skirt Part 1

I purchased the Taroko skirt by Itch to Stitch patterns when it was released last month. It is a bottom weight woven A-line skirt with 4 pockets. This will be perfect for wearing to work or on the weekend.

At Hobby Lobby I found some nice bottom weight cotton - almost denim. The other notions, matching thread and zipper I picked up at JoAnns. The thread and zipper matched perfectly and seemed made for the fabric I had selected.

I noticed when I washed and cut the fabric that it seemed to want to fray if left to its own devices. I find this common with denim like material. After I cut out all the pieces I ran them all through my serger to "seal" the edges.

I also interfaced any pieces that needed some extra body. The waistband lining, the tops of each pockets, and the fly zipper area.

I have never inserted a lapped zipper fly before so I watched Katrina from Lifting Pins and Needles youtube videos on how to insert this kind of zipper.

She does quite a bit of hand basting on her projects. This helps the bits that want to shift when you sew to remain where they are supposed to be. I hand basted in the first side of the zipper and made sure it lined up with the seam.

Here I have inserted the complete zipper and topstiched the zipper into place.

She also shows you how to construct a zipper guard. This was sewn over the other side of the zipper. This means the zipper never actually touches the wearers skin. This was probably the most nerve wracking portion of the project. It was not perfect, but I am sure with practice it will get better.

Next week I will continue with the pockets and show off the final piece.