Starting Some Alabama Style
I've had Natalie Chanin's inspiring books on my shelf for a couple of years now, and I've been sitting on her ideas until at last they've hatched in my hands.
I love her aesthetic, and the way she uses everyday materials to make gorgeous clothes. Everything is created out of cotton jersey and buttonhole thread, with maybe a little elastic at a skirt waist. But the ingredients are used with such ingenuity and elaboration that the end results *so* transcend their humble beginnings. She makes me think of artisan bakers who do everything with just flour, yeast, and salt. 
I cut out my first cotton jersey project--a gored skirt in red. Seams sewn together (I did mine on the machine), then time to start embellishing the seam allowances by hand. I chose a straightforward whipstitch to hold the seam allowances down (they're on the right side of the garment). Already I can tell that I'm affecting the drape of the skirt. Fascinating!
And I love that the wrong side is even more beautiful than the right! Next time I'll use this graceful stitch in a place that shows. I'm following the instructions for this skirt:
although I won't do the eyelet embroidery at the hem. Something simpler, and then on to a full-size dress. This skirt is a great warm-up and a great way to learn how to handle the materials.
12 comments:
Oh, good luck with it, Anna! I've seen one of her books - a beautiful dress with cut-outs - and a beautiful tote, also with the cut-outs, which I have a link to on my blog, and am getting up the nerve to try and copy it.
I look forward to seeing your result.
haven't heard of the book - I'll check at my library. I'm definitely fascinated by the whipstitched seams on the outside. In theory, I think it would be too shabby chic for me, but when I see your skirt in progress, it looks like a play on topstitching (which I love and use everywhere). How fun would it be to have a slightly different shade of thread. . . oh yes. You've definitely given me some a new idea to play with.
I never thought I would see seems on the outside, but it looks beautiful. I will definitely check this book out!
It's beautiful - I keep finding examples of Alabama Chanin's work on the internet and I love it. Good luck with your project!
I have her book sitting on my shelf as well, waiting for me to pick up some jersey.
Thank you for sharing - I've never heard of her and I'm definitely missing out. A new book for my wishlist and a new website for inspiration. How I'd love to be half as creative as she is.
beautiful! can't wait to see the finished product.
Please show when you're done.
I went to the same design school as she did, but I studied architecture. . . she makes me wish I'd given textile design a try!
Ohh, I wish I could sit at her feet and learn. Please post a picture of the skirt when you have finished so we can ohhhh and awwww. <3
Maria Ricci
Please share with us where you are finding quality cotton jersey knit yard goods! I don't have a source for anything that is worth the time of day - I miss the softness and drape of good thick cotton jersey. I bought a Lauren full length black shift when thrifting recently just to repurpose the heavy cotton jersey, but I long for colorful yards!
My jersey came from Vogue Fabrics in Chicago. I think you would do well ordering from an online source--such as Vogue!
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