DIY: sewing your own fashion

Vogue pattern 8806, Sewing Patterns

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Sewing can be one of the most exasperating endeavors I've encountered--can't tell you how many times I've had to re-do what I just did because I did it backward. That said, in today's retail clothing market, sometimes sewing a garment yourself is about the only way you can find/afford something unique.

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Burda pattern 8108, Sewing Patterns

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Probably the single most common error I make when putting together a sewing project is selecting an inappropriate fabric or print to go with the pattern.  It's best to look at the garment illustration on the pattern envelope carefully and heed the fabric suggestions on the back, unless you have a very clear idea of the look you want to create. Sewing Patterns has a good selection of patterns.

If you're new to sewing, there's a lot to learn. Getting to the stage where you can put together a Vogue Couture pattern may take years. There is a Very Easy Vogue collection that has many desirable designs and suits beginners' skills, such as the one below. While it's always best to buy the size that fits your measurements, in my experience Simplicity and McCalls patterns feel small for the measurements given.

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Very Easy Vogue pattern 9115, Sewing Patterns

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A good guide is essential; one that I've used so much it's falling apart is Simplicity Sewing Book (This links to a revised version at Amazon).

For me, one of the most pleasurable aspects of sewing is shopping for and handling fabrics. There are excellent deals and large selections online (Online Fabric Store slider), but you really should go to a local fabric store to get a sense of how light or heavy, firm or not firm, stiff or pliable--called the hand--a fabric is.

If you really don't want to open this can of worms, fulfilling as it can be, and would rather let someone else do the handiwork, take a look at sites like Etsy Clothing, ArtFire, and Rebels Market. There's a list of Etsy alternatives at Business News Daily.

-- Marge