That looks like a good start - I like black and DPM too, though I have not combined them yet, but I think that you are not allowing enough ease - that is the inch or so added to allow the garment to lie over the body easily rather than being skin tight or even acting as a corset.

I use spray starch on my cotton kilts - spray and iron on the inside first, then pin or baste the pleats and press - it is a lot easier if the smoothing of the fabric and the pressing of the pleats are done separately.

Further photos are awaited with interest.

Anne the Pleater. :ootd: