Alabama Chanin – Stash Couture Style Skirt

Handstitching, stenciling, reverse applique – all fun embellishment techniques currently being showcased on organic cotton knits by Alabama Chanin.

Had to try it!

With some Stash Couture modifications, of course!

The Stash contained a short piece of stretch linen in a summer green and several small pieces of blue/green/purple hand-marbled cotton.

Not exactly (or even close to) the dark knits of Alabama Chanin – But perfect for the heat of Arizona!

Simplicity 7229

Skirt Front Reverse Applique

The Pattern Stash included Simplicity 7229 (unfortunately discontinued.)  This is the most comfortable skirt pattern!  The only modification made was to change the drawstring to an elastic back waist.

The methods for true Alabama Chanin garments are detailed in her books. One of the Alabama Chanin stencils was modified slightly for use on this skirt.

After being drawn onto paper-backed fusible web and fused to the linen, the leave shapes were cut out.  The linen was then fused to the marbled fabric.

Stitching Detail

In keeping with the Alabama Chanin methods, embroidery floss was used to hand sew short running stitches to reinforce the raw edges of the reverse applique.

Narrow vertical pleats were added to the other side of the skirt front.

The beautiful colors of the hand marbled fabric are visible through the cut-away leaves.

Alabama Chanin Inspired Stash Couture Skirt

The skirt is very comfortable (did I mention it is S-T-R-E-T-C-H linen?).  It will get plenty of use when the temperatures soar.

Total Cost = $0.

I may attempt another Alabama Chanin inspired project –  possibly even a knit!

I wonder what knits might be hiding in The Stash!