Sometimes we make plans.  We prep and follow through.  Everything goes smoothly.

And sometimes we get caught off guard.  We get knocked off of our feet.  We can only hope that there will be people ready and willing to help lift us back up.

Team Mermaid has been hard at work behind the scenes to prepare for the release of the Mama Cora and Cora Culottes.  These two patterns were meant to be a part of the M4M 35,000 member celebration in the Made for Mermaids Pattern Group on facebook, but then Harvey devastated the Houston area.

I was amazed by the number of pattern and fabric companies that responded quickly to this disaster.  Companies offered up flash sales where the proceeds were donated to various organizations to help out the people of Houston.  The online sewing world stepped up to the occasion and, thousands of dollars were raised. Megan at M4M created several Texas themed cut files that the sales will be donated to local Texas charities.  But Made for Mermaids has taken it one step further.

The Mama Cora and Cora Culottes will be free as originally planned but not until October.  Through September 30th, the patterns will be $3.00 each with ALL the proceeds going to local charities selected by M4M owner, Megan. 

Here’s to stepping up and helping out.  Check my version below and then grab your copies for a cause. (***the pattern will be free starting October 1st with a code in the Made for Mermaids Pattern Group on Facebook if you choose to wait***)

The Mama Cora Culottes are knit shorts that have the body of a half circle skirt.  Offered in several different lengths including 4″, 8″, 12″ and 17″, this pattern is a great starter pattern or a quick and easy wardrobe addition for the seasoned sewist.

I made the 17″ length which is designed to hit below the knee.  This version is sweater knit, making it appropriate for this upcoming season.  These shorts were easily styled two separate ways for fall—-  One with an off the shoulder sweater (this is from Kohl’s but can easily be hacked from Mama Cassie) and high heels.  The other with a floral Pumpkin Spice Dolman from Patterns for Pirates and knee high boots.

You cannot tell from the side profile that these are shorts. Mom approved for sure!

The waistband is a comfortable and simple knit band that could easily be hacked into a fold over waistband. 

I love the drape and fullness that is created using the 17″ length. 

I think I used a little more than two yards to create this size (yellow hips), but the shorter lengths can definitely be made out of a 2 yard cut or less. 

I will definitely be making shorter versions of the Mama Cora for lounging around the house, but for now, I am awaiting cooler weather to wear these out and about. 

This is a great pattern to start out with if you are new to sewing. So if you have been thinking about learning to sew, grab a copy to support Texas and get sewing!

Until next time….sewing and sipping,

Stacey