So last night I began a dress making course. Although when I say began, really was gatecrashing a three term course with only 9 weeks remaining! Everyone else had been attending from the start, so had been given tutorials in how to do button holes, collars, cuffs, zips etc etc. Me, I was going in pretty much blind. Sure, I have given these things ago, but I lack serious confidence in these areas.
I must say first and foremost, that Janet, the tutor, and all of the other 'students' were so friendly and helpful. I was even brought a cup of tea and a biscuit!
I was rather optimistic about what I could achieve in my two hour session, which is nothing unusual (hence why I pack away unfinished projects to 'complete later' when I get bored or frustrated with them, and they never see the light of day again). I took along a skirt pattern from Sew Hip magazine; buttons, bow, enough detail for a challenge, but not too much that I end up throwing the sewing machine out of the window. I cut out all of my pattern pieces, although I need to do the waist band piece again as I clearly can't measure properly! At the weekend, I aim to buy some more fabric and get my pieces cut out ready for the second lesson, so I can spend the time getting my skirt constructed and then start another garment. Ambitious much?!
As I will be going to these classes for the next nine weeks (with a one week gap for half term), I thought I would make this into a little feature on What Katie Found, so pop back every Thursday for my sewing updates!
So here's a summary of week one...
Knowledge
- 'Pull' the edges of woven fabrics to create a straight edge.
- Apparently Fenwicks sells the best interfacing you can get your hands on.
- Cut out your fabric with the scissors flat against the table.
Mistakes
- Dropping the tutors tailors chalk on the floor, and breaking it. Cringe.
- Buying a fabric that will not only shrink if put in the washing machine, but will also fade.
- Cutting the wrong size for my waistband.
- Having some serious issues with accurate measuring.
Today, I woke up just aching to make something. Unfortunatley, I had to go to work first, but on my return home I began to cut out another skirt pattern (again from Sew Hip magazine). This one had no buttons or zippers, just a simple elasticated waistband. Overall, I am pretty pleased with myself :) I love the yellow polka dot fabric, but it's polyester (just like all those beautiful vintage 1980s dresses I always see, but can't stand to wear), and I'd much prefer it in cotton. I will definitely be buying some more fabric to attempt this pattern again. I need to chop off some of the elastic around the waistband too, as it's a bit too loose.
So here are a few photographs, please excuse my grumpy looking face, that's just how I look after intense concentration whilst sewing!
I LOVE the big bow (but I want to make it BIGGER).
So what do you think? I'm still not feeling that confident about my sewing abilities, but it's certainly a step in the right direction :)
Go you! That skirt is amazing! It combines two of my favourite things... polka dots and bows! xx
ReplyDeletei think the skirt looks great! it's so perfect for summertime x
ReplyDeleteWow, I love that skirt! I think I have a similar habit of starting projects then putting them away and not finishing them :/ Dress making classes may be the way forward
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Katie, your skirt is amazing...I LOVE it!!! What course to you go to? I've tried a couple in Leicester, but haven't found a great one yet...
ReplyDeleteWell done! You've done a fantastic job, especially loving the bow.
ReplyDeleteThis is brilliant! I love the bow, it's so cute! xx
ReplyDeleteThat skirt is so cute! I need to check out Sew Hip magazine more often!
ReplyDeleteP.S is that a hula hoop in the background? I only ask as I'm a hooper and love it :o)
the skirt looks amazing.
ReplyDeletehope to hear from you soon,
abigail
I think it looks great, that skirt is totally cute!
ReplyDeleteThis skirt is adorable, well done! I really wish I was good with a sewing machine! xxx
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