How to turn a sewing project into a designer outfit

Turning an ordinary sewing pattern into a unique outfit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sewing pattern of your choice
• Material of your choice.
• Various sewing notions.
• Imagination.

1. Visualization and idea formation. If this is your first time trying this, look at several style magazines or browse high-end stores.

2. Choosing the right pattern and correct size. If you are new to sewing, sizing will shock you. It is not the same as store-bought clothing manufactures use. Even their sizing is inconsistent. You will probably wear a larger size in a pattern than you do in a store-bought outfit.

3. Add different elements than what the pattern calls for. For example, I took a simple shift-style dress and added gores of solid red fabric. The print was a patriotic flag print. The gores at the bottom gave it flare and made it something entirely unique.

4. Try mixing fabric textures. You may not need to stick to all cotton or all polyester. Read the washing instructions on the bolts of fabric you have chosen. Don't choose one that will bleed and another that is color-fast. Better to choose all color-fast fabric.

5. Wash your fabric before cutting it out. I cannot emphasize enough how important this is. Many cottons will shrink some upon the first washing. Some fabrics will bleed on the first washing.

6. If you don't have a dress form, consider having a friend or your spouse help you make one. There are instructions available on the internet. It is the one sure way to get an exact fit.

7. If you do not have a dress form, be sure to cut the pattern a little larger if you are not sure you have purchased the exact size for your measurements. Don't just guess at your measurements. Take an honest look at what you measure chest, waist, and hips. Many of us tend to spread out as we age. I hate my measurements, but they are what they are. If you have body perfect, then bravo for you!

8. Lay out your pattern and whatever changes you want to make to it. You may need to alter the pattern itself or perhaps you want to add, for example, beading or embroidery elements to the finished item.

9. Have fun with it. I tend to view sewing as assembling a jigsaw puzzle. If you get frustrated with any step, then get away from it for a while. Remember, this is supposed to be fun.

10. When the project is finished, wait for the rave reviews! They surely will come. Everyone loves the 2 patriotic outfits I have made, and for each one I altered the pattern I was using, even though I was using fabric purchased from Walmart. Everyone asks where I purchased the dresses! Same goes for my brocade Christmas outfit!

11. If you have never sewn before, you may want to take beginning classes offered at your local fabric store. Just don't be intimidated. It is not difficult. Choose simple patterns at first. Don't jump into the Vogue patterns, as they are usually very difficult.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful with the pins. My hubby complains that after I finish a sewing project he is finding pins all over the house. I have a magnet I use to run over the floor, tables, etc., in search of errant pins.

[writetruth]

on 10/25/2008 I love your suggestions! 5 Stars ~!~