Making Life more Beautiful
In order to improve my sewing techniques I decided to make a silk chiffon blouse with lace inserts, using a 1959 Vogue blouse pattern. Before I started I researched the theory. Finally I have finished, and worn, the blouse. In case … Continued
This was my first and only Online Craftsy class. Previously I had tried on on-line training class and been very disappointed. This time, thankfully, I was very pleased. The instructor is Alison Smith who has just been interviewed by Rachel … Continued
In order to prepare myself for designing and using sheer fabrics I bought a piece of silk chiffon and a blouse pattern (ostensibly) designed for sheers. Here is how I got on. Design The pattern is my size (b34) and … Continued
My first lace skirt came to a very sorry end. I caught the skirt on a drawer handle. The Dinosaurs are extinct. However I got the lace bug and decided to have another go. Pattern The previous copy of a RTW … Continued
Lace is a particular type of fabric, composed of holes. Traditionally making it was an exceptionally time-consuming task, when all fabric construction was time-consuming, (compared to weaving cloth or knitting socks, for example). So it was always a luxury item, … Continued
Well that was a bit of a challenge! I can’t say I have ever made a lace skirt before, but (now I know what I know) I will definitely try again. This one is not very well made. It is … Continued
Before I embark on my sheer chiffon blouse with cuffed, puffed sleeves, I have had a lot of very helpful advice from the amazing sewing community, I have consulted my own sewing library and I have made a few samples. … Continued
Most lace is either white or ivory, due to its starring role at weddings. Of course black lace can be nice too – especially for evening wear or underwear. I really like this vintage dress where the black lace is … Continued
I have started trying to work with more difficult fabrics, in the hope that this will force me to improve my sewing techniques. I am a good enough constructor, but my stitching is rather basic compared to some of the … Continued
I like lace, but I don’t have much experience with it. The only lace item I have ever made was in about 1984 when i attended a dressmaking class in Moss Side Manchester. I think I used a Vogue pattern … Continued