Not a complete loss

Some of you may remember that I was going to make this

I thought the Tessuti Pia was going to be a relatively straightforward sew. Silly me.

You see in my initial enthusiasm I somehow completely misread the sizing information. The XL has the following measurements; Bust 101 cm, Waist 89 cm, Hip 117 cm.

Ok the waist is too small but I didn't think that would be a problem due to the shape - and it wasn't. And the hip is pretty spot on. But my bust measurement is actually 116 cm. Not a great increase on the 110 cm that I read the pattern as. But a significant increase from the actual 101 cm.

So needless to say my first wearable muslin didn't quite fit - although I think it is salvageable. And I do want to salvage it as I really like the fabric. Actually I was (and am) embarrassed to discover that it is actually a cheap knockoff of this

On Walkabout by Karen Taylor

Which led me to have a closer look at some of the truly amazing Australian Aboriginal print fabric available.

I am actually not that fond of prints - largely because I usually find it so difficult to find ones that I like. I don't like florals or novelty prints. I do like strong, geometric prints. Boy do these aboriginal designs fit the bill. Check these out

So I am now going to order myself some of these fantastic fabrics. You can find them at

Fabrics Downunder

Kullillaart

Aboriginal Fabrics

And for those of us outside of Australia

Fabrics and art which by the way has flat rate international shipping of only $23.95 for up to 9 yards (and really good prices on this fabric).


So the Pia dress has been temporarily shelved while I contemplate the fitting issues. But it has opened my eyes to the wonder of Aboriginal print fabrics so it hasn't been a total loss.

Have you ever used Aboriginal print fabrics? Or are you now tempted? If you have, please leave links in the comments as I'd love to have a look.