I finished my second skirt. This one is also an embroidered linen blend (I'm sensing a theme here). I made this using the same basic pattern as my first skirt, only using Frances instead of my mom's sewing machine. I am happy to report that Frances works like a dream.
I did learn something new about her, though. She doesn't have a zipper foot. It's not missing; it was never there to begin with. As a brand new sewer, I thought you could only sew in a zipper using a zipper foot. This is not strictly true. It is possible to sew in a zipper with a regular presser foot--at least it is if you're an experienced sewer. For me...well, it didn't go so smoothly. I had to rip out the zipper at least four times. I tried to use the advice some of you gave me about basting the seam together and then sewing in the zipper instead of making a lapped zipper, but the presser foot kept pushing the zipper to the side so the fabric wouldn't cover it. Finally I just gave up. 
So this zipper is wonky, too, but in an entirely different way than the first one. Fortunately, I'm not all that picky about my attire; I figure no one will notice it anyway. (If I'm wrong, I don't want to know.)
If you look closely, you can see that I added a black bias binding to the hem. It adds a little weight and makes for a nice swinginess. It wasn't hard to do, but I mistakenly bought very narrow bias binding, which made it a little tricky to sew on. Next time I'll pick something wider. Live and learn, eh?P.S. I'm still desperately seeking bobbins for Frances. Again, if anyone knows of a source for obscure bobbins, please let me know!
