Devastated would be the proper word to describe my feelings. I had been eyeing this beautiful fabric for weeks. I’d longingly walk past it in the aisle of the fabric store but couldn’t make myself put it in my cart. (I’m not accustomed to paying $16.99 per yard for fabric.)

Then one day I decided to purchase it. I knew I could make something beautiful. Once I got it home I decided to try my hand at a pencil skirt. It would be my first time making one, but I’ve grown comfortable with my sewing skills. So, I knew I could pull it off.

I cut the pattern using a pencil skirt that is in my closet. This particular skirt is incredibly flattering on me and I wanted to replicate the look.

After cutting, pinning, and sewing the skirt I looked at it with pride. I couldn’t wait to wear the skirt the very next day. But first, I needed to try it on to insure a proper fit. Much to my chagrin, the skirt couldn’t get past my knees.

I tried everything. I sucked, tucked, and contorted my body in all directions. But the skirt didn’t budge. I was devastated, really. After much debate I figured my daughter could wear it. She tried it on and like me, couldn’t pull it up past her legs. She even tried to make it a shirt, but it got stuck on her head.

The idea then came to me to simply display it on Miss Gigi Dressform for future inspiration. But guess what….. It was too small to fit on the mannequin! This is a tragedy. I can’t believe this fabric has gone to waste. I need a hug.

*Even though this garment didn’t work out as I had planned, I did learn a very important lesson: In order to make a pencil skirt I must use a fabric with more stretch in it. This fabric would have been perfect for a circle skirt.