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Sunday, April 8, 2012

DIY Tutorial: Maxi Skirt! Start to Finish Video

Yay! I got it done. This was the strangest day and nothing wanted to work right, LOL but alas here is the video and instructions if you want to print them out.

Maxi Skirt also doubles as a Dress!



Video Tutorial




   

xoxo
mimi g.



101 comments:

  1. So funny you posted this. I just made one of these last weekend trying to build up my transition wardrobe. What fabric is yours? The drape is nice.

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    1. It's just a cheap poly knit I had in my stash from Joann's, lol I usually use it to line knit dresses.

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    3. Mimi,
      Thank you for the tutorial. I absolutely love maxi skirts and dresses. YOu look great btw.
      Question: the 19.5 measurement...is that 19.5 inches of fabric I'll need to make the maxi skirt??

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  2. There's no link to the video! Or was it just me?? #desperate

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    1. Chandra Thanks darling, it looks like the link was broken, it is now fixed!

      xoxo

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    2. Okay. You've inspired me. I'm ready to start sewing! I'm going to be hunting down a sewing machine this week!

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  3. This was a wonderful tutorial!

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  4. I will be trying this out on my mothers sewing machine!

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  5. Thank you so much Mimi. Thanks for taking your time and expertise to demonstrate this, it is much appreciated! I've made two skirts so far by just measuring and sewing. Now after watching this video I now know some of the things I've been doing wrong that caused me to re-sew a few times. I'm on the right track now and ready to knock out 3 more skirts!!! :-)

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  6. definitly going to try this. thanks so much!

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  7. Great tutorial for a beginner or an advanced sewist. Thanks for poosting.

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  8. I am relatively new to your blog and don't ordinarily post comments on them, but I just have to tell you how much I love your blog! I was turned on to it by a friend who told me "there's this girl named mimi g who has a blog and her style reminds me so much of yours". Initially, I was like "whatever" but after she mentioned it a couple of times I said "let me check this girl out". And after looking at a few of your post I could see what she was talking about! Lol! I've gone back to look at many of your past blogs and have gotten so many ideas from you on how to put things together. Thanks! :-) I thought your "I'm not Halle Berry" post was pretty funny, too. I also have a short pixie cut and have been told that I look like Halle (or Nicole Ari Parker). I find it very complimentary, HOWEVER, I find myself thinking the same thing "uh, no I'm not Halle", Lol! But, like you said, I could be compared to worse, so I'm not complaining. And for you to have given birth to four children looking like you do, OMG!!! Also, I can only imagine how time consuming responding to so many post can be, so please don't feel bad if you can't thank everyone. I think one big thank you and maybe acknowledging a few people here and there will be just fine. I made a comment last week when you asked about paying more for something that was custom made and mentioned that my mother sews. She has been trying to get me to sew since I was little and I JUST DON'T HAVE THE PATIENCE FOR IT! But, you make me wish I had learned!! So anyway, again, thank you so much for the inspiration and creative ideas. I look forward to seeing your future work and your occasional vlogs. Take care of yourself and that beautiful family of yours!:-)

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    1. You are funny! Thank you so much for commenting, I feel special ^_^ hope you visit again soon "twin" lol

      xoxo

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    2. Aww aren't you both cute lil midgets!!! Lol!! From the six foot friend who told her to check your blog out!!!

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  9. Love this! What type of fabric did you use?

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    1. Hey Monique! This is just some cheap poly knit I got a Joann's I was going to use it for a lining but I decided to use it for the maxi tut instead :-)

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  10. Pretty skirt, great video you make it all look so easy!! I am going to get fabric this weekend so I can start sewing some things!! So excited!!

    Thanks for sharing!!


    Carsedra of:

    http://www.embracingtherealme.com/

    http://sweets4yourtooth.blogspot.com/

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  11. Love this video! I tried making a maxi a couple weeks ago but didn't have a clear way to do the measurements and it came out all wonky lol Gonna try your way and see how it works! Thanks Mimi!

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  12. I've been waiting on this tutorial! Thanks so much for taking the time to do this video!

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  13. Your creativity is inspirational, I love the versatility of the skirt!

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  14. Hey Mimi, can you tell me what sewing machine you are using?

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    1. Hey Lashell

      I'm using my Janome Sew Precise machine.

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  15. Mimi your tutorial is excellent especially for someone like me who has no sewing experience. You make me want to run out and get a sewing machine as I too am a clothes horse and would love to make some of the stuff I want but can't always find in stores or online. You're an inspiration keep up the great work diva!

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  16. Loveeeeeee that skirt! Your work is AMAZING!!

    XOXO,
    Ashley
    ASassyWoman.Com

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  17. Thanks Mimi, can't wait to sew up a bunch of these.

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  18. I can't wait til I get back from vacation so I can get my sewing machine. This is amust have for me. Thank you for taking the time out of your life and schedule to make the video. You are just amazing!!

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  19. Thanks so much for doing this . The skirt is gorgeous.

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  20. THANK YOU! Will Make it this week

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  21. Thank you for taking time out to share and motivate, So we can all jump on the fabulous bandwagon!

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  22. This is a great tutorial! I need this skirt in my life, in all kinds of colors! Now if only i had a sewing machine, it would be on.

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  23. YAAAY!! Can't wait to try it!!!

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  24. I just discovered your blog through Pinterest, and you have inspired me to learn how to sew. I'm budgeting for a sewing machine and I just can't wait to make this maxi-skirt (or at least attempt to) This came just in time! Wish me luck and Thank you!

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  25. Love this skirt! Thanks for putting up the video so quickly!

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  26. I love your tutorials! You make sewing basic, easy and most importantly fun and functional. Keep up the good work, because honestly...YOU just Rock!!! (I know that statement just aged me.) Anyway, I look forward to more of your awesome work.
    By the way....the guide you use to mark your hem is brilliant.

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  27. I've been obsessed with maxis lately. So, I can't wait to get started on this. Thanks for sharing.

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  28. You're so clever. Thanks for the tute :)

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  29. Love the skirt. And the belt! Where did you get it? It's perfect.

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    1. The belt is a few years old but I got it at F21 :-)

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  30. Love the skirt. And the belt! Where did it come from, it looks perfect.

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  31. Great tut! Your directions are easy to understand.

    I am going to make this over the weekend.


    Thanks!

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  32. Thank you so much Mimi

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  33. Thanks Mimi for this wonderful video. I will be sharing this with my bff who is learning to sew. She doesn't listen to me, LOL :)

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  34. Great Tut babaaa!! I'm on it!!

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  35. This is going to be my first project!!! Any fabric suggestions? I like the one you used.

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  36. Thank you for doing the video tutorial. Looks so easy! I can add it to my collection of skirts to wear while in Africa. Good work!

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  37. I think your tutorials are absolutely amazing! The reason being that you explain the details about simple things to an experienced sewer but to someone who is starting out it is a godsend. I have been sewing for many years but still I love that you explain play by play. You are truly gifted in teaching. You make it "seem" elementary and easy when it isn't. Thank you, for sharing with us. Truly appreciated.

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  38. great tutorial thanks for the information

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  39. Mrs. Goodwin you mentioned in another post you would consider doing a seminar at some point, and I sincerely hope you do. I live too far away to take it, but I know so many young people (and people of all ages really) that want to learn to sew, and would be more than willing to purchase a great class but are discouraged by what they see (there's a lot of people out there with technical ability, but not much style or a distinctly vintage style that is very popular right now, but not everyone is in love with). You are one of the few that has both technical ability, contemporary style, AND you seem like a very high quality teacher. I do wish you well in your future and hope you will continue to pass on your gifts. If you ever decide to do any online classes via something like Craftsy I think you'd have great success also.

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  40. Did you sew the tank as well? If so what pattern or was it self drafted. It is a great fit!

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  41. Hi Mimi. You have re-inspired me...i'm a little obsessed now :) I have a sewing machine and taught myself on my grandmother's machine when I was younger. I let everything else get in the way but know i'm going to get back to it. I'm going to designate a space in my home to sew. Thanks! Kerry D

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  42. mimi,that is so beautiful and so quick to make. thank you for sharing.

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  43. Thanks! I appreciate your tuts (lol). I am going to to try the maxi and the pencil skirt this weekend and will post pics. I'm 6'3" and although I do very well finding clothes for my height, I always wanted to learn how to sew. I am a novice but catch on quick. These should be easy since they don't have zippers!! Thanks for the inspiration, you and Erica B. def motivate me. Found both of you guys on PR. I can say sewing is fun and relaxes me. Once you figure out your fit it is smooth sailing. You don't want the "grandma" fits. I am not down with that! Stay Fly!! Jabs...Here's to 35 & Fab

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  44. What type of iron ate you using? Also did you line V1250 (green dress), The V8146 (pink MK knockoff), and the B5672 (cream/off white dress? If so what did you use?

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  45. Thanks for posting this video you did an excellent job of explaining the procedures!!!!!

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  46. Made my skirt this past weekend and wore it to church on Sunday (post here: http://www.tiashauntee.com/2012/04/sunday-style.html). It got a ton of compliments. Thanks for the great tutorial!

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  47. I think you're wonderful.xoxo

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  48. This is a clearly explained tutorial. I'm sure you will inspire many new sewers and you are reminding experienced ones that sometimes the simplest way is the best!

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  49. I can not wait to make this once I get my own sewing machine. I think I am going to try to start it on the sewing machine I use in my sewing class. :)

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  50. I love this tutorial ur making sewing so easy for us all x

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  51. How did I just find this blog? I will not be sleeping tonight and catching up on your blog instead. I am wondering if there would be a way to modify the waist measurement for a plus size skirt? The waist would be 40 inches and I am thinking it might just be too much fabric...kind of bulky? But maybe not!

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  52. your tutorial is so great.......you do such a good job telling people little things that i would assume everyone would know......but to the point, not overwhelming info...
    thanks so much for sharing...

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  53. I made this skirt and it turned out great. I did not even know I wanted to learn how to sew. You have inspired me to do more with sewing. My daughters now what me to make them one.

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  54. You are a fabulous teacher. Some people may know their craft but don't always know how to convey it. You are superb!!!

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  55. sooo cute!!! I'm trying this this weekend! you make it look sooo simple!!!

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  56. amazing..it looks so easy... maybe even i can make it..

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  57. Mimi, I love this skirt and plan on making it next week. What should I do if I want to make it knee length instead of floor length?

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  58. such a cracking idea! I will be making this, and the other maxi's you've kindly posted for us. For a few good reasons... 4 children = thread veins and a few varicose one added in, and the last baby of the bunch is still feeding, so easy to just drop one side and whap out the milky bar!
    Thanks again, I'll put a link to you on my blog, rest assured!... If you could also give me some advice regarding putting a tutorial onto a blog I'd really appreciate it too, Just can not do it!
    ;-)
    seweasytodo@blogspot.co.uk x

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  59. I just got finished with making mine! Thanks so much for the video! I agree with Mother of four, I'm still feeding my youngest from the tap and this is going to make feeding him so much easier!

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  60. I might have missed this, but what width is the elastic for the waist? Thanks so much for this, and I can't wait to try and make one for myself!

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  62. This is amazing... I want to try this.. going to get some cheap fabric to start.. very great tutorial. You have a new fan/stalker! lol

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  63. I have searched LONG AND HARD for sewing tutorials that made sense. And you totally did that! I usually don't comment on blogs, but I just had to thank you! You are amazing. :)

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  65. Hiya, OMG... Love your blog.
    Can't wait to have a go at making this maxi skirt. Just wanted to check what fabric you were using and also, what fabrics would you recommend to make this type of skirt. I'm after something that won't be too clingy but has a nice drop and flow to it. Great tutorial can't wait to watch more x

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  66. Hi, I just found your blog.. I've just screening the pictures, they are amazing..
    I really want to try making one.. unfortunately I don't have a sewing machine..

    Anyway, I just wrote a post about pairing a maxi skirt in my blog. Just in case anyone needs an idea what to wear with their DIY skirts, please feel free to visit my page.. :)

    http://whattowearwith.weebly.com/maxi-skirt.html#.UPz2YCdkzLN

    or simply

    http://whattowearwith.weebly.com

    luv,

    Hueyna



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  67. Can i use any fabric?

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  68. Mimi, where have you been all my life? Thanks to this careful and thorough tutorial I finally grew a pair and made a gorgeous maxi skirt out of a yukata (like a less formal kimono) I bought in Japan 10 years ago (and surprise surprise, I never wore). Now my memories from my amazing trip to Japan can be relived over and over again every time I wear this skirt, which will be a lot! I've also taken a stroll through your blog and can safely say you've got great style and except for your height, a similar shape to mine, so I look forward to trying out some of your other tutorials. Keep up the good work!

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  69. Mimi, I want to start by saying your tutorials are fabulous and I'm thankful that you share your knowledge. I'm very new to sewing so I have watched other tutorials and read several write up and I found that some of them say you should laundry you fabric before sewing with it to allow for shrinkage. While watching you I haven't heard you say anything as such, do you laundry any of your fabric first? I'm so excited about getting started I'm sure this will be my first project. My mother loves the maxi skirts but they all fall just above her ankles, now I can make these for her the length that she wants. Again thank you and keep up the fabulous work.

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  70. Thank you, Mimi, for your tutorial. I found you through Pinterest. I just sewed up the maxi skirt to take on my vacation in 6 days (but who's counting?!) I can't wait to wear it! You have posted some fabulous things. Thank you so much for sharing.

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  71. wow!!! soo easy n simply thank you Mimi G

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  72. Hi Mimi!
    I stumbled upon your site and I LOVE IT! My mother sews, but has no patience to teach her grown daughter, lol!! I would love to make clothes that would actually fit me. Now a days, clothes are not cut for every woman's curves. You have inspired me to take a chance. I hope I can do it. Wish me luck!

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  73. Ok...now I got it...I was wondering why the panels were so big...it is to make the skirt flow...thanks Mimi for the great tutorial

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  74. I have already made three of these and love them, but I was wondering about doing a short one in black material with lace over lay being long? Do you think it will work?

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  75. waist measurement: at "natural waist" or at belly button (where I usually wear my clothes)? for me, there is a difference of about 5". 36"/43".

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  76. THANK YOU! I need to rebuild my wardrobe with Islam-friendly clothing. This is perfect!!!! xox

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  77. Thank you so much. You make sewing look so much more easy and I love it. I can't wait to start....:)

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  78. This looks awesome! Quick question, you cut four panels, but did you use them all? That's the part I didn't catch.

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  79. Great tutorial! I am confused by the amount of yardage I need. I used your measurements and came up with 2.5 yards of fabric which seems like a lot. Instead of taking the length measurement x 2 divided by 36, shouldn't you use your waist measurement x 2 divided by 36 so the yardage is more like 1.5? I'm new to sewing so please let me know if I'm thinking about this the wrong way :)

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    1. Just follow what I said in the video. I know how to calculate for fabric doll.

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  81. I just found your blog and let me tell you I was up until 2am this morning. Your style is so bomb and I love that you are from Chi City. I am from Maywood!! I now live in San Antonio. I need to lose some weight so that I can make this skirt/dress. I have found my new inspiration. I learned to sew last year about August and I have been so nervous about making clothes. You make it look SEW easy (pun intended). I am married to a Puerto Rican man and I am so happy to find a Latina blogger who is doing her thing that I can show to my girls as a positive role model. Keep doing your thing!!!

    Besos!!!

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  82. Made this skirt and get plenty of compliments when I wear it. Even made a shorter version for my daughter. Love it. Thanks so much for the tutorials.

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  83. Hi Mimi. I subbed to your channel on youtube and actually made a skirt following this tutorial with an oversize mumu I found at goodwill for $5. The only problem I 'm having with it is the elastic and the elastic casing. I can't get the casing around the elastic to stop shifting. I used a knit elastic although I had a no-roll elastic, I thought it felt more comfortable around my waist. Should I sew the elastic to the casing to get to stop shifting? How can I avoid this in the future. Thanks.

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  84. You are SO awesome. I have been looking at maxi skirt video after maxi skirt video and this one is so clear. From your explanation of the measurements to your great tip about the one-inch guide, this video has it all. Thank you SO much!

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  85. Okay, wait. Did you end up with two 20-inch panels or two 40-inch panels? You uploaded this so long ago that I'm afraid you won't read this and answer!

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  86. I was looking for a maxi skirt to buy, now I'm going to try to make one instead. Thanks for the video. Your great!!!!

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  87. Thank you for this tutorial! My sister has been following for a while now and I always love to see what you have come up with....SO i just started following you as well... I'm an aspiring fashion designer and I'm so thankful for all of your posts! I'm going to try your Regal Maxi Dress for Easter Sunday in two days! Keep it up. Be blessed! Thanks for being so encouraging!

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  88. OH IT'S ON NOW!!! I'm on my way to get a sewing machine and fabric this weekend!! Thanks to my girlfriend in my head..LOL!!!

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  89. hi...great tutorial.....what other fabric can I use to make this skirt....because I don't have poly knit or knit lol

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Thank you for taking time to comment ;-)

xoxo
mimi g.