A Stitching Odyssey: Nina Lee Kew Skirt

I was recently sent some stunning wax print cottons from House of Yeshua Fabrics to review, so I decided to make haste and join in with Ankara Appreciation Week. Hosted by Lena King and Juliet Uzor on Instagram from 12 to 18 July, the week is an inclusive celebration of the distinctive fabric. Lena shared this introductory post if you want to know more, support Black-owned businesses and find out how you can take part.

Of the prints Patience sent me, this one is the most striking and unusual, so I was itching to sew it up. I didn't have much to play with and a simple skirt was my best chance to make the most of the print and cool gradient. 

I opted for the Nina Lee Kew Skirt variation in a size 10, with an added ruffle for a little extra something. I took 20cm off the length and evened out the hem to eliminate the pattern's high-low detail. For the ruffle piece, I doubled the width of the hem with a 12cm depth. Once I attached the ruffle to the skirt, I measured the length and amended the facing pattern piece to fit before cutting it out.

It's a bit sad I didn't have enough fabric to pattern match, but I think the end result is still pretty cute. I'm particularly fond of my alternating pink and yellow buttons, both perfect and from my stash.

The skirt pattern came together really easily and the fabric was a delight to work with. This is my first time sewing with wax print cotton, so I don't have anything to compare the quality to, but I'm really happy with what House of Yeshua Fabrics sent me. The designs and colours are stunning and the fabric softened beautifully after a wash, maintaining all of its vibrancy.

There's something undeniably joyful about wearing this skirt, which I've got to put down to the fabric. Happy Ankara Appreciation Week everyone - hope this week is inspiring for one and all!