From Blue Fingers to a Beautiful Skirt: My Simplicity 9894 Denim Sewing Story

The Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern is a winner for sewing enthusiasts looking for a versatile and stylish pattern. This pattern design boasts two skirt lengths, making it adaptable to your personal style. I recently sewed up the companion top found here in another post but thought that two pieces looked better with other items.  

I made up this skirt using a medium-weight denim from Fine Fabrics in Atlanta, and the results were nothing short of fantastic. The Simplicity 9894 skirt truly impressed me.

Simplicity 9894 Skirt: Pattern Highlights

• Skill Level: This pattern is not just beginner-friendly, it’s a confidence booster. If you can install a zipper and work with waistbands, you’re all set to create a masterpiece. Sizes Available: The pattern generously offers a range of sizes from 6 to 24, ensuring that all shapes and sizes of sewists are included and catered to, especially with the Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern.
• Customization Options:
  • Choose from two lengths: knee-length or maxi, which is one of the key features of the Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern.
  • There are no pockets (bummer).
• Recommended Fabrics: Denim, twill, corduroy, and linen are all excellent choices for this pattern. Choose a medium-weight fabric, as suggested by the Simplicity 9894 skirt instructions.

Tackling Denim: Sewing Tips

While denim can be a pleasure to sew, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Needle Selection: Opt for a denim or jeans needle specifically designed to penetrate thicker fabrics. A size 90/14 or 100/16 should work well for medium-weight denim, which is ideal for the Simplicity 9894 skirt project.
• Thread Choice: Use a strong, all-purpose thread like polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester, which is recommended for stitching the skirt.
• Stitch Length: Denim often looks best with a slightly longer stitch length (2.5-3mm).
• Pre-Washing: Always pre-wash your denim fabric to prevent shrinkage after completing your skirt.
• Topstitching: Consider topstitching to add a professional finish. Use a contrasting thread for a bold look, or match the thread for a subtle effect.
• Pressing: Press seams open or flat using a tailor’s ham or seam roll to manage bulk.

My Sewing Adventure with the Simplicity 9894 Skirt

The Simplicity 9894 skirt was a joy to sew. The instructions were crystal clear, and the pattern pieces aligned seamlessly. I opted for the knee-length version with patch pockets and used a gorgeous medium-weight denim in a classic indigo wash from Fine Fabrics.

The denim itself was a delight to work with. It offered the ideal balance of structure and drape and pressed beautifully. I used a denim needle and contrasting topstitching thread to accentuate the skirt’s features, all thanks to the Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern.

Final Sewing Thoughts

The finished skirt is both chic and comfortable. It effortlessly transitions from casual to dressy occasions and pairs well with everything from a simple t-shirt to an elegant blouse. I paired the skirt with an Old Navy top, a custom Stan Smith Adidas, and a Louis Vuitton Neverfull. The denim itself was a dream to work with, offering both structure and drape. However, my excitement overshadowed the crucial pre-washing step. As a result, I ended up with Smurf-blue fingers for several days! Lesson learned – always pre-wash denim!

I highly recommend this pattern to sewists of all skill levels. It’s an easy-to-sew pattern that yields a fantastic staple piece.Just remember to pre-wash your denim! 😉

I recommend the Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern to all sewing enthusiasts, regardless of experience level. Its versatility and straightforward construction make it a fantastic addition to any wardrobe.

Bonus Tips:

• Enhance your skirt’s look by incorporating belt loops, especially when working with the Simplicity 9894 skirt pattern.
• If you’re new to sewing with denim, practice on scrap fabric to get comfortable with the material and machine settings.
• Don’t hesitate to experiment with various denim washes and weights to create a unique piece.

Happy Sewing!