How to Sew a Velvet Kimono!

This is Simplicity 1108. Even though we're in the midst of fall here in the South, it's still pretty mild. I love the idea of dressing for fall, but I have to be realistic. So I knew that something like this long kimono (or duster) would be the perfect topper for cooler evenings.

I made another view of this for Mikaela last year, and it's been in constant rotation in her wardrobe. Hers turned out so well, I'd been saying I wanted to make myself one. I decided to use view C, the long version. I knew in the right fabric, it would gorgeous and dramatic.  

This pattern only has 3 pattern pieces... talk about a quick sew. And it's the perfect pattern to allow the fabric to be the star. While shopping at Joann Fabrics, I found this amazing Boho Style Burnout Velvet Fabric. My store had 2 bolts, one with this black background and another with a cream background. I love the idea of florals on a dark background for the cooler months and this is just perfect.

Velvet can be a very tricky, sometimes difficult fabric to work with. I've made a few successful velvet projects, so I decided to share some tips that I use that makes sewing velvet an enjoyable sewing experience. Here's my latest Youtube tutorial: