Pattern Review: "Ava" Maternity Skirt

    

      The colder weather is on it's way, and now is the time for finding or sewing some maternity skirts for the occasion. I searched stores and online for options, but discovered that they're either not available or only available in a knit material. Knits may be nice, but they'll absolutely not hold up for a winter in the northeast. The search for longer lengths, heavier materials, or affordable price was challenging to say the least. Then, I stumbled upon the Etsy shop, Lou Lou James Creative Studio. It is the only one I've found like it, and it is fabulous!

       

     The shop owner was so kind and helpful in answering my questions about using heavier materials and lengthening the patterns. She also worked with me in creating a deal for purchasing three patterns at once. (I purchased the "Emily," "Meg," and "Ava" skirt patterns). I love working with small businesses like those on Etsy!

       The "Ava" skirt is described as a "comfy, swingy pull-on skirt." and is comprised of four simple pieces. The sizing ranges from a 28-38 inch (pre-pregnancy) waist. The recommended material is knit. The steps to assemble the skirt are very simple and easy to follow. The pattern took me a little over an hour, but I suspect future skirts with this pattern will go even faster. 

    

Material purchased from Hobby Lobby
using the weekly sale and online coupon.
This skirt cost about $11.00 to make.
Not to bad considering availability
or prices of most stores! :)

     I did make a few alterations to the pattern. For instance, I chose a cotton material instead of a knit. I also lengthened the skirt by about 4.5 inches so that it would fall at my knees. The pattern includes a marking for shortening or lengthening the piece, which was so helpful. This will make creating a full length skirt for winter months much easier. The waistband is knit, and can be folded over or pulled up as desired. The patterns are designed to last throughout pregnancy, and so the waistband is a little big now but I'm sure it will be filled out in no time. 

     The "Ava" skirt is very comfortable and easy to make. I particularly enjoy the flowy style of this particular skirt (it's my favorite!). I can foresee many more skirts to come from this pattern! The next one may be a full length version. I can't wait to also begin sewing the other two patterns I purchased! I'm so glad I found the Lou Lou James Creative Studio Etsy shop! I rather like my new little skirt! :)

Excuse the awkward pose and blank stare. A model I am not. haha. ;)

*Note: Reviving Homemaking is not an affiliate of Lou Lou James Creative Studio. As such, Reviving Homemaking does not receive any compensation in any form for the inclusion of the shop or products in this post. The opinions shared are entirely my own and have not been influenced or solicited in any particular direction in any manner. (I just really like the shop & products, and wanted to share them with you!)  
Linked up at: Christian Mommy Blogger, Blissful and Domestic

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-

Join Reviving Homemaking on Facebook!

Visit the Reviving Homemaking Etsy Shop!

Follow Reviving Homemaking on Pinterest!

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-

Blog Hops!

Visit the two blog hops currently going on :)

Homemaking Blog Hop

Small Business Link-Up

(ebook, Etsy, consultant and other small business endeavors)

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-Question for YOU!-*-*-*-*-

What is something you wish you had learned to do before getting married or having children? Why?

(Your name (first name + last initial) and comment may be used in the upcoming Reviving Homemaking ebook. If you wish for your name to not be included, then please simply use "anonymous" or "guest." Thank you for your input!)