How to Sew Maternity Clothes
The joys of pregnancy are enhanced with comfortable and classy clothing that shows off Mom-to-Be's budding baby bump in style. Maternity-specific fashions are usually necessary from the middle of the second trimester on through delivery. Because maternity clothes get limited wear in most women's wardrobe, sewing your own can save you money and offer a custom style that lets everyone know about your growing expectations in a chic way.
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Things You'll Need
- Patterns
- Fabric
- Thread
- Decorative notions, such as lace, ribbon, rhinestones
- Measuring tape
- Sewing kit
- Sewing machine
Instructions
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Choose a pattern for the item you are making. Drawstring-waist slacks and skirts, baby-doll or princess-style shirts and flowing dresses allow freedom of movement and a lovely drape. Tunics are also comfortable and stylish. Find patterns online or at your local craft and hobby retailer. Select designs you can tailor and wear again after your pregnancy.
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Select stretchy and colorful fabrics. That expectant glow is also enhanced by slinky fabrics like silk, rayon or polyester blends. Cotton-Lycra blends help keep you comfortable during occasional hormonal hot flashes. The Lycra also adds a bit of support to your baby bump.
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Cut your fabric according to the pattern into the strips and sections that you will sew together. Allow more than 40 inches or more in the waist for your belly to grow into, depending on your patttern or your own expectations for multiple births. Cut slimmer silhouettes if you're making an item of clothing you plan to wear only during the earlier months of your pregnancy.
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Sew together your masterpiece using a running stitch or satin stitch. Make sure that the thread you use complements or blends in with your fabric. Check your work as you go to make sure you are sticking to the pattern you chose, and to ensure that your seams are straight and symmetrical.
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Atttach decorative details like rick-rack, scarf belts or ties, rhinestones and lace to customize your new creation. Enjoy showing off your growing belly in style!
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Tips & Warnings
Choose fabrics and patterns that fit in with your current wardrobe, especially if you plan to modify them after your pregnancy for regular wear.
Don't place buttons or zippers on your pants and skirts, as these can get uncomfortable as the belly grows and the baby begins to kick and move around.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit pregnant woman image by TEA from Fotolia.com
