Pants For Grandma And A Skirt For Me

This pattern of Grandma’s is from the early 1980’s. I can tell by the pieces that were used that she made the pants. Which makes sense because they look like something I can picture her in. I could tell by how the pants pattern was folded that she made adjustments on the length. Grandma was very short, and seeing her length adjustments made me smile. Now why did she write her name on the top of this pattern? I have no idea. Maybe she let someone borrow the pattern, that’s the only thing I can think of.

I decided to make myself the shorter skirt on the bottom left.

Let’s get sewing!

Another sewing mystery. Someone was doing some serious math on the inside of the pattern envelope flap. Seems like a lot of figuring for a simple pattern, but again, it’s a mystery. Maybe the pattern envelope was used as scrap paper. Either way, someone was doing some serious math!

I didn’t need much fabric for this skirt, so I chose this red fabric that I had. I had bought this particular piece of fabric at a second hand store. Someone had cut it into a square, and hemmed the edges. I think they were using it as a small table cloth. I paid the low and random price of $0.30 for it! Yes, 30 cents! If you want to learn to sew, or if you are already making things, I would suggest that you check out second hand stores. Look at linens, drapes, and tablecloths. Check out the dress section for long dresses with fun prints that you can upcycle. Look at old sheets too, make sure they’re not too worn. A lot of the time you can find actual yardage of unused fabric. It saves money, and is environmentally friendly. Plus you can have something truly one of a kind.

Although this pattern was from the early 80’s, I was hoping that my fabric choice would make it look less 80’s. Sometimes it’s fun to make something and be true to the era of the pattern, and sometimes it needs something different.

The skirt had pockets which is always a plus!

Sewing up the long and tedious drawstring!

As I’ve been going along through these sews I’ve caught on to little tricks of the trade that make things easier. For example I figured out that when I was cutting out the pattern pieces I needed, it was best to just go ahead and cut them all out. They’re easier to put back into the envelopes if you do. Also, if I cut a pattern instead of marking it, I always keep the cut off part in case I need another size in the future. I thought I was pretty clever to figure that out, and then I saw with this pattern, that it’s exactly what Grandma was doing! Great minds think alike I guess!

I looked really hard for a picture of Grandma in these pants. I knew she made them, I knew she made them for herself because of the shortened pattern. And I believe that I found it! The pants she’s wearing in the picture look like they are constructed the same as this pattern, complete with the drawstring waist. Now can I be 100% sure, no, BUT looks like them to me! Also pictured is my Uncle Jimmy, and my Aunt Joylana. I must say, everyone is the height of early 80’s fashion! I love it!

My skirt was finished and off I went to Sacramento State University to visit David. We walked around the campus after a nice lunch. I had David snap a few pictures of my skirt out and about. Here skirt and I are in the campus’ arboretum. It was hot and I’m a little disheveled, but such is life!

We explored the library on campus, and I loved this quote that was in the stairwell.

But a few days later a few more pictures were needed so Michelle’s backyard did the job!

Gotta love a skirt with pockets!

This skirt was quick and fun to make. I’ll be wearing it all summer long! I was able to take an 80’s look and change it to suit my personal style. And of course, getting a new skirt for 30 cents is always great!

As for me, onto the next!