megan nielsen design diary

For those of you making a pleated Wattle skirt – this post is all for you! And it’s going to be a fun one, because there are actually many different pleat patterns you can choose from. And I’m going to show you five of them today!

It’s important to note that you may find it easier to wait to attach your pockets until after you’ve completed your pleats. But you can also do pockets first, if you’d like. You’ll notice in the different samples before that some have pockets already, and some don’t.

Ok, let’s see what these pleat patterns are and you can decide which you like best! Or maybe you want to play around and create your own pleat pattern. The sky is the limit with this one…

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Who is excited to get started on the construction of their Wattle skirts? First things first – we’re going to attach those pockets! The crossover pocket opening is seriously probably the coolest feature of the Wattle skirt (and Flint pants!), and it is what allows you to step into your skirt through an opening, and skip any tricky zipper or placket closure.

These pocket steps apply to all versions, but I’ll be demonstrating here on view A (bias cut). Because of this, my front is in two pieces. But if your are making views B (pleats) or C (gathers), your front piece will be all one piece. No matter – construction is exactly the same!

Also, one side note – If you are making a pleated version, you may find it easier to wait to add the pockets until after you’ve done your pleats. Or you can still do them first, if you prefer!

Ok, let’s jump right in and get started…

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The Wattle skirt is one of those patterns you’ll find yourself making over and over again in different lengths, new fabrics, changing up the closure or the waist band! There are really an endless stream of options available whether you prefer more or less volume with pleats or perhaps a bow at the side; a sleek bias cut midi in a floral pattern or a maxi for a special occasion; or even a play on the perfect summer basic, the denim skirt. You’ll be spoilt for choice!

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• Find a striped fabric and test out your pattern matching skills or completely go against the grain and place your stripes in opposite directions!
• The perfect girly skirt to contrast with a comfy denim shirt or t-shirt is ANYTHING with polka dots. Small dots, large dots, colourful dots, textured dots…they’ll add the perfect amount of fun and femininity to your look.
• Use a heavy weight fabric with embroidered stripes or dots to give structure and volume to your skirt.

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• Florals on a skirt are about as groundbreaking as florals in spring…however they certainly never go astray. Add a striped top and you’re immediately in Spring/Summer, feminine/chic territory.
• Extend your skirt length for a beautiful elegant silouette, add heels and you’re ready for a night out.

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• Extending the Wattle skirt to the floor is a version we’re desperate to try! The sleek lines of bias cut View A and D are the perfect base to add length and keep a smooth line over your waist and hips.
• Use a heavy weight denim for a modest longer skirt perfect for day time.

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• Create a structured bias cut skirt in thick denim for a vintage look.
• A lighter weight denim would be darling in any of the versions but especially the pleated and gathered view B and C. Incredibly comfortable you could pair it with almost any top and shoe…the perfect basic.

// LOOKING FOR MORE WATTLE POSTS? //

Here’s the full list of the upcoming Wattle posts and tutorials:

• Pattern Tester Round-up
• Inspiration + Ideas (this post!)
• Pockets (all views)
• Bias Cut seams (views A & D) and Tips for Pattern Matching
• Pleats (view B) and Alternate Pleat Patterns
• Gathers (view C)
• Button Waistband
• Tie Waistband
• Hem

Don’t have the Wattle sewing pattern yet?! Order Wattle today! We absolutely love seeing what you make, so don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNwattle and @megannielsenpatterns when sharing on social media, and check out what everyone else is up to!