Elbe Textiles Steele Pinafore

The Steel Pinafore by our local Elbe Textiles is one of those patterns that I had to purchase on the day it’s released. It’s such a cool design and I love the fun details, especially the ties on the back and big pockets. I was pondering if I want to make it with the famous Sou Sou 10 fabric or a classic black linen. In the end, the plain black linen won!

The pattern comes in a classic A-line skirt and a gathered skirt view. I would usually automatically go for a gathered skirt but I think this style looks great without. I had enough fabric to cut the lining from the same length of linen so I didn’t use a different lining fabric. All up, I used just under 2m of this black linen from the Fabric Store.

Based on the finished measurements, I cut a straight size B with a B cup bodice and shortened the skirt by 3cm. It’s quite loose fitting as it’s designed to be worn over a shirt or a dress. Once I worked out the length of the shoulder straps, I can just slip it on without having to undo the straps or buttons.

One thing that’s worth noting is that there’s no closure/coverage on both sides between the pocket openings and the buttons. Thinking about how I would most likely wear mine, I need to add a facing underneath so that I’m flashing anyone. The instructions suggested sewing 2 additional buttons but I’m not convinced 🤣. I drafted an additional facing piece to close up the gaps.

I only realised there is a gap after I finished sewing the side seams. If I make it again, I would probably modify one of the facing pieces instead of installing an additional piece afterwards. I used the front and back skirt facing as a guide, and added 3.5cm to the top edge so that it extends up to the buttons – might as well!

Cut 4 (2 sets) and interfaced 2 of them to add structure. Stitch with a 1/4″ seam allowance all around, clip curve, then turn right side out. Tuck the top edge in and stitch across to close it up. Repeat these steps to make 2 pieces.

Decide which side you want the facing to be stitched on, then sew along the overlocked edge of the existing facing – I chose to stitch mine on the front skirt facing. Line up the facing on the other side and sew a short line of stitches from the pocket opening to about halfway through the curve at the bottom to secure it to both skirt facings. The last step is to hand stitch the top part to the bodice. Repeat on the other side.

And it’s done! Below is how it looks from the outside.

With Arrow Mountain buttons sewed on 🙂 So much better than showing off my underwear 😅.

Here I’m wearing it with the Fibre Mood Norma Blouse. I can see myself wearing it with my knitwear as well, another tran-seasonal garment! I love this pinafore so much I already planned for a gathered version – who even am I if I don’t make the gathered version, really? 😆