I’ve had a pile of Liberty fabrics slowly building up over the past few months. And because I know I’m going to be designing and building web sites solidly for the next few weeks I thought I’d better squeeze in some fun before work hits. And of course ensure Astrid will have some clothes for Summer. (Yes Summer oh where have you gone?)

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The hooded jacket I made is an absolute labour of love and the best thing I’ve ever made. Only a few months ago I considered this pattern way too hard – but I did it. I tell you having an overlocker certainly makes an astounding difference. And it makes sewing a lot more fun! The exterior is Liberty babycord in Cynthia’s floral and the lining is Nina (small yellow roses on white) tana lawn.

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Also made is a matching top in the yellow Nina tana lawn.

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I also whipped up this wee sundress which reminds me of a kaftan that Joan Collins would wear in Dynasty, stiff drink in one hand, cigarette in the other, fluffy kitten heels on her feet. This is the third version of this dress Astrid has had. The other two are here and here. This fabric is Horrel in blue colourway.

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Of course the day after I made these I suddenly thought – blind hemming – of course! So the skirts are. And now I know for other things. Blind hem. On the jacket I hand-sewed the sleeve hems and the rest is fine, but the Joan Collins kaftan will most certainly need it.

And at the end of the day where would we be without some nice simple skirts to don atop jeans. I love these and they’re the perfect project for all the little pieces I get from my Liberty supplier. This one’s in Dante. I had to wait and wait and wait for this. I think it’s my favourite.

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I can’t remember the name of this one – but it’s an old, traditional Liberty print. Probably why I can’t remember what it’s called.

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Oh and on the garden front – my seeds have started to come up – and even better news I am sending them off to a friend’s greenhouse for a couple of weeks to get a little head start in life.

Books used:

Hooded Jacket: Girly Style Wardrobe
Beach dress: Koharu no Fuku (Autumn Clothes)
Skirts + little top: Onnanoko no Fuku (Girls’ Clothes)

I have made a little collection of Japanese craft books here – they link through to Amazon – where you can grab the ISBN and then order from YesAsia.com. Or order from Amazon if you are that way inclined. I think it works out the same cost although it may be cheaper from Amazon if you are ordering a lot in one go.