Lace.

I just bought this fabric on eBay. Correction: I just bought SEVEN yards of this fabric on eBay. It's 60" wide! Including shipping from the UK, it was less than $30. Supposedly it is not as white-white as the picture, but is instead a deep cream color.

Now, there's every chance that whatever I make will make me look like Attack of the Tablecloth Bride, but in my head right now this looks cool and summery, not as obvious (and more flattering on me) than bright white. I'm seeing something like the sweet and simple bodice from the other day, with a 3/4 circle skirt. Not quite sure how I'll line it, or with what (probably batiste or thin habotai silk, I would think) but that will all get worked out eventually.

I think this kind of crochet-y lace is less formal and easier to wear than what we usually think of as Lace with a capital L -- and much less scratchy!

We'll see what it looks like when it arrives. Seven yards!

Speaking of tablecloths, I think I'm going to try to do a photo tutorial on making a skirt from a round tablecloth. Since there's more natural light (and more elbow room) in most coal mines than there is in my sewing room, this will take a bit of planning.

One last reminder ... if you're going to send me a book cover for the book cover contest, tomorrow's the last day to do it!