A new skirt! I have lots of Indonesian batik fabric lying around, including this cotton batik from my sister-in-law. Probably not the best choice for winter, but I can always wear it with tights like I do here.

The pattern is from the new book ‘Boundless Style – A Mix-and-Match Sewing Pattern Workbook’ by Kristiann Boos of Victory Patterns. This is no ordinary sewing pattern book. Instead of several separate patterns in one book, you get five bodices, five sleeves, and five skirts that can be mixed and matched to create a whole wardrobe – boundless style. I think it is such a great concept because sometimes I do that too, making a custom frankenpattern of several different pattern. But with this book, I can always be sure that my seam matches.

Each pattern comes with variations. Bodices have different details, sleeves and skirts in different lengths. Separate patterns for skirt lining and waistband are also provided. The patterns come in sizes 2-16 in a CD that you have to print and tape. If you have purchased the book from another source and would like access to the digital link, Kristin has said in this post to contact her.

All patterns have step-by-step instructions with clear photos and diagrams. In additions to that, the book also has several chapters on essential sewing skills, like installing different types of zippers, stitch in the ditch, attaching a waistband and much more.

The geek in me is very happy to know that this book has its own lookbook app! Check out this Boundless Style app where you can mix and match the patterns to create your own outfit. It is so fun, a bit like playing with paper doll.

I’ve been playing with the app for sometime, planning a new dress for me. Unfortunately the smallest bodice size is still too big for me, so I decided to make a skirt instead.

The Lydia skirt is a full, multipaneled skirt with two overlapping pleats at the front and back. I made the cocktail length skirt in size 2. Instead of using the waistband pattern, I decided to finish the waist using black twill tape. The skirt has A-shape skirt pattern for the lining. I like that the skirt and lining pattern is different, as it really reduces bulk and makes the skirt hang better.

For some reason, I wasn’t really sure if I liked the skirt when it was just finished. Then I wore it today to do some errands, and I think I love it! Also, check out my pattern matching!

I really like this book and its concept! Next time I should try printing the patterns several percentage smaller so I can also use the bodice….

Pattern is Lydia skirt – Boundless Style by Kristiann Boos of Victory Patterns, size 2.

Disclosure: this book was sent for free to review. However, the views and opinions expressed are purely my own.