If I could say one thing about the new Tie Dye Diva Mermaid Maxi pattern it is FIT TO FLATTER!
Jen from Tie Dye Diva has been making patterns for 10 years for children, but this is the first one that is specifially for women. I’d say she’s off to a great start! The Mermaid Maxi has two views – straight (with optional slits) and mermaid. Sizes include 0-24 fitting hips from 34″- 55″. Both views have the option of flat or gathered pockets (who doesn’t love pockets!).
Being on the larger side, specifically my thighs, I was skeptical that the mermaid view would look good on me so when I applied, I was going to make the straight skirt. At the last minute I decided to see how it goes with the mermaid skirt. Well, I.LOVE.IT!!!
The pattern has six panels for both views. The shaping is the key difference. That means six seams and done. Because you are using knit fabric, you don’t even have to hem the skirt.
Of course, I decided to make it difficult for myself and chose a stripey fabric that I had gotten from Fabric Mart. I can’t seem to find it in stock right now but it is an ITY knit with lycra. I held it up to my waist to see which stripe I wanted to have hit my largest section, and went from there. It just so happened, that the thinnest section (my knees) has a black stripe, making it look even thinner.
Confession time – This was only the second time I worked with stripes, and first time where it was an adult pattern. I. was. worried. I hand basted all six panels before serging them together, just to make sure the slippery fabric didn’t shift. I had some mess up but its on a curve so … eh. I’ll live 🙂
Initially I was going to do the gathered pockets but realized it wasn’t going to work with the stripes, so I made the flat pockets. Again, making sure to match the stripes as much as possible.
Conclusion – If you haven’t already figured it out, I’m in love with the swishyness (probably not a word) of the skirt and it still be flattering. I see many more in my future.
Pattern Info:
Pattern Name: Tie Dye Diva Mermaid Maxi
Size: 14
Modifications: For once, none!
Would I recommend it? YES YES YES! Such as a quick and flattering pattern is a must make!
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