How Many of Us Sew?

[Bernadina]

Was wondering how many of us sew. Like in repairing, altering or creating our own clothes.

http://www.qss.ca/entomology/thm_frbfly020.gif

[crispy]

I alter most things. I like to make up combinations from leotards and swimsuit skirts, to make like a skate dress, for example. Elastic thread is very forgiving!

[Ava Mouse]

I would like to learn, have access to my wife's sewing machine, but just need the time/a good project to start with. I can sew on buttons and do simple repairs, but nothing more than that.

I was thinking a nice large hair ribbon or shoulder wrap would be a good start... :)

[Amelie]

I make all my clothes, even corsets, bras, and cotton/lycra leggings.
I used to buy fem clothes, but I was making so many alterations that I found it easier to make my own. Also I could make clothes that you couldn't buy in a store. Now if I could only make shoes, then I would really be happy.
Love Amelie

[crispy]

I make all my clothes, even corsets, bras, and cotton/lycra leggings.
I used to buy fem clothes, but I was making so many alterations that I found it easier to make my own. Also I could make clothes that you couldn't buy in a store. Now if I could only make shoes, then I would really be happy.
Love Amelie
and you only ever need black thread and knicker elastic. lucky girl, keep it simple.

even though I do it myself, I find the idea of us old dames squinting through our reading glasses trying to keep the stitches neat to be highly amusing.

[Alayna]

I do make my own clothes, but funny thing is I still buy most of them. I see something in a store I like and think "I could make that" but then end up buying it because "I want it now!":rolleyes: I have trouble listening to that practical voice in my head

[jessicadiane]

Like the majority I see,I am know how to use needle and thread to sew on a button.I see so many cute fabrics out there.I would love to make my own dress,blouse,or skirt someday.

[joesephine]

Repairs, alterations, no problem.
Understand a pattern------------------LOL
I do a blackpowder reanactment (mid 1700-fur trade era)
Made some leather Native american dresses for my daughters.
They had bodys, and it hung and looked good on them. Made one for my wife at the time, she didn't have a nice body, it didn't hang right, and looked more like the dress was pointing out her body flaws. I cut it down for the girls.

Joesephine

[Marianne]

I can manage repairs, sewing buttons back on and such like.

The only outfit I've made for myself was japanese armor tho.

[Alayna]

Has anyone tried altering shoes? I just got 2 pairs of boots at Walmart today and the calves are a little wide. The materials are very soft (suede and cheap leather) so I was thinking I could take them apart and redraft the pieces to my own measurements. BTW - to you girls with big feet- check out the Walmart sales now!!! The brands they carry tend to run way big. I wear a size 12 shoe and 13 heel, but I was able to find 11's and 10.5s that fit well! I went yesterday and caught the sale by accident, so I bought a bouple sale sandals that were $3/pair and tried them on at home (size 12) - well they were WAY too big. I went back today and you know the rest.

[GraceUSA]

My grandmother was a fabric and costume designer and my mom was a wedding gown maker and doll clothes designer. I've had training as a kid on how to use a sewing machine and read patterns and I've also had a class in junior high on sewing as well. I despereterly want to get back into it and improve my skill and work up to the point were I can design my own clothes. Only got two things holding me back right now, money and a good fashion fabric shop.

Money I can't fix untill I get a job but finding a good fabric shop is something I can do now. I know there is nothing around me that has any decent fabrics. Its all either wedding satins or cheap printed cotten. How clothes feel is extremely important for me and the fabric shoppes around me just doesn't carry the nice fabrics. I should spend a couple of days and explore the fashion disterict in LA to see if I can find a fabric shop that sells ends from the local makers.

Grace

[samantha78]

I try to sew but it doesn't come out wearable. As for my alterations the stitching line is always wavy in one or two short spots! So as to my answers to any of that all I can say is I try!

[Amelie]

One way I learned to sew was, I took an old skirt that fitted my body. Then I would take the skirt apart carefuly. I would then use the pieces as a pattern for other fabric that was similar in texture. Because the original skirt fit, the new skirt would be made exactly the same so it would fit as well. Skirts are the easiest fem clothes to make.
Just thought it might help.
Love Amelie

[crispy]

One way I learned to sew was, I took an old skirt that fitted my body. Then I would take the skirt apart carefuly. I would then use the pieces as a pattern for other fabric that was similar in texture. Because the original skirt fit, the new skirt would be made exactly the same so it would fit as well. Skirts are the easiest fem clothes to make.
Just thought it might help.
Love Amelie
such a practical girl, Amelie. :rolleyes: I think you would make some GG a wonderful gothic wife. :p

I have tried to copy clothes like that, but because I only wear stretch lycra fabric I find it is impossible to get it to fit together neatly. :( If there is a secret to (hand) sewing lycra I certainly don't have it. :confused:

[Amelie]

Crispy,, It is very difficult to stitch lycra fabric by hand sewing, I think impossible. For lycra fabrics a serger sewing machine is what is used most, although I do OK with a regular sewing machine. I use a lot of cotton/Lycra fabric, but I have some degree of difficulty using the Nylon/Lycra fabric. It,s really not that difficult if a machine is used, just try to make something simple first. With the cotton/lycra fabric, make a tube skirt, it can be made with just one seam to sew, fold the top of the fabric and slip in an elastic. Even if the top is not very neat, a top can come down and cover it. Fabric is so cheap you can make many mistakes without hurting your purse.

Love Amelie

[crispy]

Amelie dear,

My SO would certainly question why I would need a sewing machine, but I would still love to learn. One day I may be as free as a bird, and then I will be able to sew to my heart's content. Can we arrange to meet in mid-Atlantic, or In My Dreams, so you can demonstrate how to sew lycra fabric? I don't mind if it's black lycra, actually more than half my garments are black, so maybe I could be elected as an honorary probationary goth at the same time. Which location would you prefer? :D

Anybody else want to join the Crispy-Goth sewing circle? Please apply below. Deposit of $99.99 per head is required for ticket reservations. Exact GPS co-ordinates of the chosen location will be advised in due course. :rolleyes:

Does anyone have a magic carpet? :p

take care and thanks,

[Bernadina]

We have at least 4 sewing machines in the house, which includes an antique Singer treadle machine, an early version Singer electric, a Sears Kemore, and a Husqvarna something or other that can be computer controlled. My first wife, who past a few years back, was really into sewing. My kids also made their own SCA and fetish costumes.

The best I can do is repairs. Mainly because I don't have the time to learn to do more. And I need to take a course on how to use the new fangled techology.

http://www.qss.ca/entomology/thm_frbfly020.gif

[Ava Mouse]

About how much does it cost to have a skirt or blouse altered? I've a few things that I would like to fit better. Mostly skirts with larger waists.

Some are simple, which I'd like to try with my wife's sewing machine, others are more complicated and would like to have a professional work on.

I think around $20 would be reasonable for a multilayered skirt? Take it in a few inches? Or would it cost more?

[Lavazza]

I used to sew counterfeit jeans

[Sharon]

The most complicated thing I'm able to sew is to hem the length of skirts and slacks.

[alba68]

Nope! Can't sew.

[Melissa A.]

When my car breaks, I call the mechanic.

When clothes break, it's time for the dry cleaner , or tailor. Or goodwill.

No time, no inclination.

Hugs,

Melissa :)

[StephanieCD]

I learned it in Home Ec class in school and was pretty good. I've fancied myself a seamstress but never actually made anything noteworthy. I think about it often - how easy it'd be to make something... but for now I've got a needle and thread and do only repairs. For now.

[Vickie-CD]

Years ago my grandmother was a seamstress at a clothing store. Back then if you bought a dress or outfit and it did not fit properly, the seamstress would pin and mark what alterations needed to be made. Usually the garment could be picked up the following day and you had a custom fit. Things have changed dramaticly for the worse over the years. But anyway, she taught me how to sew and I have a Singer sewing machine. This is something I enjoy very much.
Love,
Vickie

[Jadeanne]

My wife has a Bernina machine and an embroidery module with a computer interface, plus the software. I helped her pick it out.

She has made clothing on a previous sewing machine, including (male) robes and shirts for me.

She started teaching me fabric selection and sewing, but things came up and I have a partially finished caftan, will probably return to it in another year or so, after I retire. Besides making some of my own maid outfits, etc. I'd like to master the embroidery so I could design and then embroider monograms, logos, appliques, etc. well enough for wife and self and maybe eventually well enough for gifts and an occasional paying customer.

Jadeanne

[Vickie-CD]

About how much does it cost to have a skirt or blouse altered? I've a few things that I would like to fit better. Mostly skirts with larger waists.

Some are simple, which I'd like to try with my wife's sewing machine, others are more complicated and would like to have a professional work on.

I think around $20 would be reasonable for a multilayered skirt? Take it in a few inches? Or would it cost more?
Ava, alterations are usually very reasonable(cheap), look in your newspaper classifieds and there is probably someone working out of there home that does alterations. A difficult alteration for me or you to do is a piece of cake to an old time seamtress. I hope this helps.
Best Wishes,
Vickie

[Tristen Cox]

Hmm I thought I answered this one with a post. I do my own repairs and some altering work but nothing fancy yet. Would love to make my own things, if only I had the patience and the practice. Someday... I hope :)


Love
Tristen

[Natasha Anne]

I made most of a slip dress once, but then the instructions told me to make a spaghetti strap, sew it inside out and pull it through with a crochet hook. I couldn't get the hang of that, but the rest of the dress was wonderful.

I simply must try again but I'm traumatised.

Anyone know any good places on the web to learn sewing and tips and tricks?

[rachel_jean]

I made a robe in Home-Ec 25+ years ago.

Since them, I've reattached a couple buttons to some of my work shirts.

Does that count?

Rachel Jean

[DonnaT]

I bought my wife a Bernina 200 and she was so grateful she made me a maids uniform

I had to alter the pattern to fit my big frame, but it worked.

She has another Bernina, 185 I think, and a Singer that hasn't been used in a while.

I used to use the Singer for making repairs and other things. Sewings not that hard really.

I don't use the Bernina's however. She'd kill me after beating me to death if I messed them up. She's into quilting and embroidery.

[Ava Mouse]

Well, I finally tried the sewing machine!

My wife helped me set it up, I tried some basics, then cut up an old dress to make a skirt. It's hardly perfect, but I consider it a success and look forward to learning more and evenually designing my own dresses...

[Jenny Beth]

I am so ashamed! My wife has a 500sq.ft shop above the garage, she sews for a living.....it's wall to wall industrial machines. She also does alterations for an up scale womens' clothing shop and for half the women in our area. When she's not making money sewing she works on her hobby......quilting. She has made me a few outfits and once helped me make a skirt. But I wasn't very good at it and she prefered I leave her machines alone in case I wrecked one. So sadly I don't sew, I bow my head in shame!

[DragonLotus]

Sewing isn't that hard, it's just intimidating at first b/c you're seeing finished products and thinking, "le sigh".

I, too, started with tube skirts and taking apart existing items (I'm beginning to think Amelie and I might have been separated at birth lol). The careful deconstruction of simple clothing really helps you see how it was put together. Plus, the major American pattern companies (McCall's, Butterick, New Look, and Simplicity to name a few) typically have very good instructions on how to assemble things--provided you're an instructions type of person. The little tricks of the trade come after you've tried a few items and found what you think are undiscovered shortcuts! hehehe

I have made lots of costumes (even full Star Trek uniforms for both men and women), and have been much more able to express my personal style when I'm not too lazy to get the machine out. If you're new to sewing and don't want to spend a ton of money, try one of the Sears Kenmore basic machines. Just make sure it has a stretch stitch!!!!

Good luck future seamstresses. ;)

[Krystal Lee]

Have a sewing machine that the wife bought years ago. From the get go I was the one that used it most. She has passed on now and I use it most to modify things. Can't seem to find the lacy panties and slips and camis I want so ad my own. Have quite a stock of lace as I stock up when I find a good deal. The Wal-Marts in a 150 mile radious see me as a regular in the fabric departments. Have had only one gal ask why I buy so much lace. Told her the truth that I ad it to lingerie. That was the end of the conversation, I thing she figured it was for me and became nervious. Hugs Krystal.

[jo_ann]

I curse myself for not taking home economics in high school.. was too busy taking computer drafting and metals/woods/auto mechanic (dam male brain of mine). I can repair pants with rips and re-sew buttons.. I tried a couple times to sew on my wife's machine but I always end up jamming it real good and she gets all pissed off at me. Whenever she brings up sewing, it's not usually something fun (like clothes) it's usually making drapes, or something for the dogs.. I think I just need to buy myself my own machine (used?) and practice so I don't eff her's up. One thing I hate about most machines is the bobbins you have to create (that jam up). I'd much prefer one of those machines that take in thread directly from the spool on both ends.

[kysmet]

I was the only guy in a class of 27 girls for home ec in one school. Went to three schools and at all three learned to sew. Nowadays I repair my own clothes and design some things for the medieval reenactment group I'm with. I've come up with some basic asian stuff in the past but never anything worth bragging about. I did make my sisters ren fest dress last year. She took pics of me at the sewing machine. And when I was in junior high my grandmother taught me how to do needlepoint, again my sister had a camera nearby. :D

I want to learn to do more. I can read patterns but cannot make my own. I have a couple of female friends that help me with the more difficult stuff. And I wish I had more time and money to do it as well. Cloth can be so expensive sometimes. I want to lose some weight and make myself a cheong sam someday. That's a vietnamese dress for those that don't know. But I do love doing it, it is so zen for me when I am at the sewing machine working. I lose time when I sew and it feels very nice knowing that the stress is gone when I'm done.

[Billi49504]

Hi girls, I have 4 sewing machines. One is a cheapy, straight stitch and zig zag. Another is a Tipman Stitcher, a hand operated machine for leather.I use that one to make holsters and other cowboy stuff. The next 2 are Janome machines. One is a embroirdery only machine, with the digitizer software. The other is a quilting machine. That thing has a bazillion stitches and about 15 different feet. I'm just starting to learn to quilt, and about 1/2 way thru the cover of my first quilt. Then I want to try making a skirt. Maybe a poodle skirt. I haven't learned to make clothes yet, but I sure want too...Billi

[KrazyKat]

When Karen came out, I told her I'd teach her to sew if she taught me to the power tools, always liked woodworking as well. They're both about patterns and directions.
i learned to sew at 10 so I could have clothes. Also like having original materials.
Start with the simple patterns and use good material, it lays better and less problems. Pick up a how-to sewing book, like Mccalls or Simplicity, It shows little tricks in better details. Also, for fitting, use a bodyform that adjusts to your measurements, you can even lay the pattern around it to see if you need to add to any seams. The new patterns come in multi-sizes, so if you're larger on top or bottom, you can adjust.
For straight stiching, you can add seam guides to your machine, or I use black electrical tape. This gives you a straight line for edge of fabric your're feeding into machine and keeps your stich line straighter.
Wow, can't believe the girls making their own undies and such, wow, keep it up! :D I hate to do the time consuming intricates,now that I'm older and the magnifying glasses keep sliding off my nose. Did make Karen an ensemble in dark raspberry light knit, but had to shorten the skirt, image! Turned out well. Hope this helps. It takes practice, like anything else, I guess.
Kat

[Khriss]

sure I've, sewn My fingers together -ouch,, though I have made some hem adjustments and "expansions"-that worked- I'm sure it's -practice- I need Most! , though I'd love an industrial-4 leather machine- or serger,, the ol'e Viking machine- is nice though-,, "K" oh,I used to watch Sewing with Nancy on PBS?- She amazed Me!!

[sarah]

My wife taught me to sew and i have made a dress from a patern start to finish ..i also like to add lace to bought clothes and am currently trying to find a course in stretch sewing so i can make lingerie ...I find it relaxing and as i am not artistic it gives me a sense of pride being able to create something beautifull :Power:

[melissacd]

For what it is worth, I have always had a fascination with sewing although I have yet to try. I think it is because I feel a) that I could create more interesting things than are available to buy b) I have an interest in early period clothing such as 17-18 hundreds and fifties clothing that would be hard to get now c) I think that it would enhance the femme feeling d) it would be a good skill to have if ever women's style goes completely away from skirts and dresses.

Anyway, I found this great book in a used book store that I am sure there must be an up to date copy around somewhere. It is called How To Design Your Own Clothes and Make Your Own Patterns" by Claudia Ein and it breaks the whole design and sewing process down into a very simple and easy to understand process. Good read and interesting subject.

Hugs
Melissa

[JenniRose]

I sew some of my own clothes. I have two sewing machines and one that is dedicated strictly to embroidery.

I have a number of embroidery patterns I have created that are good for use where they are not seen. Most of them are "girlie." :p

I also have software to let me adapt patterns to a persons actual sizes (Very important for us that do not have a perfect hourglass figure!)

Most of my panties are embroidered, as are my slips and half slips.

I find the extra details of the embroidery makes most articles more femme.

JenniRose

[Natalie x]

I own a needle and thread

I have been known to sew on a button

That's it!

:p

[Ava Mouse]

This sewing THREAD has me in STICHES!!!

Bwah ha ha ha ha !! :lol:

Ahem...

Sorry...

[Dragster]

Been sewing since I told my wife it was easy for her tomake curtains for our new house. "If you think it's so easy, make them yourself" she said, so honour was at stake, and I did. That was 30 years ago, and I've since made a small number of clothes for her, my son and daughter, even trousers! Recently, I've converted old trousers into tight skirts for me to wear in my closet, but nobody knows! I'm an engineer, and it weems like engineering with cloth.

Tony

[DragonLotus]

Dragster, that's why I think a lot more males would be excellent at it than they realize. It really is just like building something, except with fabric. Sewing has made me get into a lot more things using my hands. I am actually buying my own tools now! heehee

And JenniRose, is that software worth a darn? I was considering it a couple of years ago and wasn't fully convinced it would be worth the cost. I am very curvy, so something like that might have the potential to give me that properly-fitted, sleek tailored look I seek so much.

Product review, perhaps? :thumbsup:

[Tristen Cox]

What the hay, I have recently sown the straps of my nighty because one had to go and break thanks to a plastic clip. Why they use plastic for everything I don't know. Anyhow while I was at it I sewed on a nice little pair of red lips over one of the breasts. :D I've done a purse strap made out of leather and even that worked ok, although very hard to get a needle through that thing. Zippers are fun to do I think. I'm always customizing/altering something. :)

[ronni]

Yes, I have a thimble and spools of thread. I don't know any proper techniques but I can stitch a line and make it hold.
Now making your own clothes, that would be a fantastic talent!

[jo_ann]

ooh.. i have a sewing story. when I wasl like.. 14? I took two old pairs of jeans, cut them apart, sewed them back up, then cut them into a dress shape, and sewed denim up both sides (used an old white sweatshirt on the sides as sort of an elastic since jean material doesn't really stretch), took me weeks and many bloody fingers, but I actually made my own denim dress by hand.. guess if you want a dress badly enough..

[Genifer Teal]

Bernadina - I often do all of the above. At my height sewing and alterations are almost a necessity to have clothes that fit.

Genifer