Earlier this year before there were any thoughts of heatwaves I bought the Sew Different Joti Duster pattern as I thought it would be a useful layer for Summer evenings alfreso.

I had visions of making it in a lawn or cambric but when I saw the olive rice dobby fabric on my April Ambassador's list it seemed a perfect option. I liked that it had a little more weight and I liked that it was made from plant waste and the factthat it is breathable and soft to wear.

When my fabric arrived I was a little surprised by the size of the print- it was bigger than I imagined and I did for a moment wonder if it would be better used in floaty culottes or a sun dress but I went with my original idea.

The fabric washed well and irons well. It wasn't too slippy when cutting out. I did feelit might stretch out so staystitched any curved edges.

Using pins wasn't very successful-the fabric seemed to easily dislodge them- so I used clips when possible. I would advise using fine pins if you have them as it is quite easy to pull a thread in the fabric if you catch the stripe.

Because this seemed quite a luxury fabric to me I used extra techniques to finish the inside of my duster- I made the yoke double and bias bound the sleeve seam and the front gatered edge and added a hanging loop.

I was so pleased to have the opportunity to use this fabric and happy now that my coat is finished that I stuck to plan on this make.

I am wearing it over a Foundation pattern dress from Thread and Sprout made in a linen viscose embroidered fabric I previously purchased from Minerva.

#minervaambassadors #shownseated #naturalfabrics #sewdifferent .