Author Topic: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies  (Read 89344 times)

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #100 on: September 16, 2015, 11:37:52 AM »
So my show is hung as of yesterday & so glad it's done! Alot of work . anyway, accepted fabrics ( clothing . I upcycle only ) from a few different ppl ( since I finished up my other stock - hurray! ). So now I figure I'll keep accepting offerings for a bit, then stop at a reasonable amt & used it all up again. Excited to sort thru my new fabrics :)

geekette

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #101 on: September 19, 2015, 06:13:40 PM »
How do you sew a neckline in jersey without stretching it out? I basted, but that didn't help. Stay tape? Fusible stuff?  I'm sewing this pattern, which is pretty simple, but still not easy to me!  It has you sew a fabric strip to the neck, which is then folded to the inside and sewn down.  But the neckline flops out.  I'm using some lightweight t-shirt material from Joanns, nothing special.

Thankfully, I'm just practicing on scraps so far.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #102 on: September 20, 2015, 07:06:53 AM »
I sew jersey by folding it over and using a zigzag stitch.  Straight stitches, in my experience, often result in stretched out fabric, the zigzag allows the fabric to resume it's original shape.

Another option is the straight stitch "stretch stitch" on your machine.  That would be good for attaching 2 pieces of jersey together in a straight line.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #103 on: September 20, 2015, 12:59:47 PM »
Kerowyn, i think finishing wips counts as using up yarn for sure. I am doing the same as you, with a similar number of wips. PLEASE don't ask how long the parasol has been a wip. Pattern: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-ladys-bumbershoot (Ravelry requires free registration).

Moonwaves, what a good idea to make a project, but wait for the right giving opportunity. I'll have to keep that strategy in mind for my orphan skeins.

RunHappy, keep on chugging through that stash! For me the goal is not to use up all yarn,, but to force myself to follow up on the good intentions behind prior purchases before making any more. BTW, what charity do you send your knitted things to?

geekette, that is why I joined this challenge, too. Learning, finishing, and loving the results. Way to go, I admire your persistence!

katesilvergirl, how is your sweater shaping up?

riveroffashion, kudos!

To all the sewers, I'm a little jealous. You can whip out a garment or home accessory in a weekend. Knitting is a much slower process, especially the way I do it. For example, I am working on my first adult-size sweater, having made many 6 month size ones in the past. Decided to make the armhole opening deeper. This means it will be a different size at the shoulder than the pattern, but I still want it to be the original size at the wrist. And I am customizing the length. First shot at the calculations (and some denial in the form of not measuring against my body while still in the middle) and the sleeve will be TOO long. So, a week of misguided knitting, a week of procrastination about facing the truth, you can see how this one garment will take MONTHS! But I love it ☺

On, and I have to take back my "used up another ball of yarn" from Aug 17.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #104 on: September 21, 2015, 05:04:08 AM »
How do you sew a neckline in jersey without stretching it out? I basted, but that didn't help. Stay tape? Fusible stuff?  I'm sewing this pattern, which is pretty simple, but still not easy to me!  It has you sew a fabric strip to the neck, which is then folded to the inside and sewn down.  But the neckline flops out.  I'm using some lightweight t-shirt material from Joanns, nothing special.

Thankfully, I'm just practicing on scraps so far.

It sounds like you're sewing on a neck band (the folded strip). This strip needs to be a bit shorter (usually about 80% but it depends how stretchy your jersey is) than the neck opening. Sew it into a circle, then pin it at the shoulders and front centre. You will then stretch it to fit the neckline as you sew. This pulls everything in and stops it flopping out.

Here's a tutorial I found which looks about right to me: https://indiesew.com/blog/how-to-bind-a-knit-neckline

If it's not a neckband but instead the whole strip is turned to the inside, I'd still try using a strip that is shorter than the opening. This will use the stretch in the fabric to pull things in and make it sit flat.

Kerowyn

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #105 on: September 21, 2015, 08:02:45 AM »
Kerowyn, i think finishing wips counts as using up yarn for sure. I am doing the same as you, with a similar number of wips. PLEASE don't ask how long the parasol has been a wip. Pattern: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-ladys-bumbershoot (Ravelry requires free registration).

...

To all the sewers, I'm a little jealous. You can whip out a garment or home accessory in a weekend. Knitting is a much slower process, especially the way I do it. For example, I am working on my first adult-size sweater, having made many 6 month size ones in the past. Decided to make the armhole opening deeper. This means it will be a different size at the shoulder than the pattern, but I still want it to be the original size at the wrist. And I am customizing the length. First shot at the calculations (and some denial in the form of not measuring against my body while still in the middle) and the sleeve will be TOO long. So, a week of misguided knitting, a week of procrastination about facing the truth, you can see how this one garment will take MONTHS! But I love it ☺

Ooh, I think I have that parasol in my queue. I do have a worn-out umbrella that I'm saving so I can use the metal frame for a knitted parasol!

I am actually about to start a new project, though I know I shouldn't... But I didn't buy yarn, and it will be very quick, and really, how could I resist making a hat for my cousin's baby? I've planned ahead well enough that I may even be able to have it ready in time for the baby shower in 3 weeks.

Good luck with your sweater! That sounds like a really difficult modification.

geekette

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #106 on: September 21, 2015, 11:54:22 AM »
How do you sew a neckline in jersey without stretching it out? I basted, but that didn't help. Stay tape? Fusible stuff?  I'm sewing this pattern, which is pretty simple, but still not easy to me!  It has you sew a fabric strip to the neck, which is then folded to the inside and sewn down.  But the neckline flops out.  I'm using some lightweight t-shirt material from Joanns, nothing special.

Thankfully, I'm just practicing on scraps so far.

It sounds like you're sewing on a neck band (the folded strip). This strip needs to be a bit shorter (usually about 80% but it depends how stretchy your jersey is) than the neck opening. Sew it into a circle, then pin it at the shoulders and front centre. You will then stretch it to fit the neckline as you sew. This pulls everything in and stops it flopping out.

Here's a tutorial I found which looks about right to me: https://indiesew.com/blog/how-to-bind-a-knit-neckline

If it's not a neckband but instead the whole strip is turned to the inside, I'd still try using a strip that is shorter than the opening. This will use the stretch in the fabric to pull things in and make it sit flat.
Oh my goodness, that makes so much sense!  I will try that today.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #107 on: September 22, 2015, 12:21:00 PM »
To all the sewers, I'm a little jealous. You can whip out a garment or home accessory in a weekend. Knitting is a much slower process, especially the way I do it. For example, I am working on my first adult-size sweater, having made many 6 month size ones in the past. Decided to make the armhole opening deeper. This means it will be a different size at the shoulder than the pattern, but I still want it to be the original size at the wrist. And I am customizing the length. First shot at the calculations (and some denial in the form of not measuring against my body while still in the middle) and the sleeve will be TOO long. So, a week of misguided knitting, a week of procrastination about facing the truth, you can see how this one garment will take MONTHS! But I love it ☺

I completely understand. I needlepoint - similar to cross stitch, but you do the whole canvas and the stitch looks like this:  /

I had one project going for 6 years. Massive, massive project. And I have canvas and most of the yarn for a rug. Yes, rug. I think it'll be 3x5 feet when finished. That will be a multi-year project. Currently, I'm doing several very small projects (2x4 inches) because I have all the materials for them.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #108 on: September 30, 2015, 08:10:42 AM »
My problem is always that to finish a project and use up a fabric, I always seem to need to buy something. For example I just made a dress, but I needed specialist knit interfacing to support the neckline facing. So I had to buy a meter of that, to use a tiny amount, and now that's in my stash, even though the main dress fabric got used up.
The store wouldn't sell you a half or quarter meter?

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #109 on: September 30, 2015, 11:46:07 AM »
Wow, you all are inspiring!  I've been working on my sewing recently, some quilting (piecework for now, not actually quilting yet) and garment construction. I'd do more garment construction, but it just seems to take so long!  I recently made myself some button down dress shirts that I love since they fit. (Added 2 inches on the sleeves!). Those are great, but it took me two weeks of nights and weekends.

Any tips and tricks for those of us who are a little slow?  I'm assuming practice will help.

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #110 on: September 30, 2015, 11:52:36 AM »
Hav sewn by hand another full-length gown - all because a former teacher requested I bring to show her students on Friday  (class is "fiber sculpture" & I do upcycled "crazy-quilt" style by hand only.) Request was on Friday & all my dresses are currently in a show! So I created a new one, because I'm very quick ha-ha:)

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #111 on: September 30, 2015, 12:23:37 PM »
Hav sewn by hand another full-length gown - all because a former teacher requested I bring to show her students on Friday  (class is "fiber sculpture" & I do upcycled "crazy-quilt" style by hand only.) Request was on Friday & all my dresses are currently in a show! So I created a new one, because I'm very quick ha-ha:)

Also made a necklace for my Godmother using only what I already have.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #112 on: September 30, 2015, 12:36:07 PM »
Wow, you all are inspiring!  I've been working on my sewing recently, some quilting (piecework for now, not actually quilting yet) and garment construction. I'd do more garment construction, but it just seems to take so long!  I recently made myself some button down dress shirts that I love since they fit. (Added 2 inches on the sleeves!). Those are great, but it took me two weeks of nights and weekends.

Any tips and tricks for those of us who are a little slow?  I'm assuming practice will help.

On a sewing machine, I figure a dress should take a full Saturday or so. By hand, I tend to allocate a month to each garment. that's not counting sewing buttonholes, eyelets, etc., just cutting out fabric and assembly.

I'm not sure what's the slow part for you. Laying out the pattern and cutting it out? Tracking which piece goes where? Pinning?

I haven't done a dress shirt, but I can imagine that taking longer than a dress, what with collar, cuffs, maybe some darts / princess seams, a separate piece along the back of the shoulder, interfacing the band where the buttons/buttonholes go...

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #113 on: September 30, 2015, 01:12:18 PM »
Wow, you all are inspiring!  I've been working on my sewing recently, some quilting (piecework for now, not actually quilting yet) and garment construction. I'd do more garment construction, but it just seems to take so long!  I recently made myself some button down dress shirts that I love since they fit. (Added 2 inches on the sleeves!). Those are great, but it took me two weeks of nights and weekends.

Any tips and tricks for those of us who are a little slow?  I'm assuming practice will help.

On a sewing machine, I figure a dress should take a full Saturday or so. By hand, I tend to allocate a month to each garment. that's not counting sewing buttonholes, eyelets, etc., just cutting out fabric and assembly.

I'm not sure what's the slow part for you. Laying out the pattern and cutting it out? Tracking which piece goes where? Pinning?

I haven't done a dress shirt, but I can imagine that taking longer than a dress, what with collar, cuffs, maybe some darts / princess seams, a separate piece along the back of the shoulder, interfacing the band where the buttons/buttonholes go...


My take is practice: the more you sew , the faster you'll get and discover possibly some efficient tricks. Also, I think even though it is taking several nights and weekends its worth it because you're getting fabulous results and using up supplies. :)

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #114 on: September 30, 2015, 03:04:44 PM »
I'm trying to set up a "hobby swap" with friends to pass on my many, many supplies and tools for many, many hobbies to people who could benefit from them. I'm starting to think it will take a few separate swaps - had people do a survey of what they are interested in and what they could give (especially if we invite children or new crafters) and there is a really wide variance. The project is starting to take shape, and I'm already looking at what items I would be happy to pass on, and what I need to make myself.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #115 on: October 12, 2015, 05:36:37 PM »
Sewed two pillowcases on the weekend, which got the inners out of my craft room as well! Next up is working out something for some plaid fabric - and DH and I were talking about needing a picnic rug+bag on the weekend, with the spring weather so lovely!

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #116 on: October 12, 2015, 06:29:15 PM »
Sewed two pillowcases on the weekend, which got the inners out of my craft room as well! Next up is working out something for some plaid fabric - and DH and I were talking about needing a picnic rug+bag on the weekend, with the spring weather so lovely!

Ah how nice:). Picnic gear is a great project idea.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #117 on: October 14, 2015, 01:39:13 PM »
Well, I did the opposite. I was at my parent's house last weekend, and "borrowed" a bunch of sewing things that my mom isn't going to use anymore. Got pinking shears, an antique device to help pin even hems, and some random supplies (zippers anyone?).

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #118 on: October 14, 2015, 06:34:54 PM »
Hi Sibley, I am about to accumulate more yarn stash briefly.  I am knitting a sweater and am about to run out of yarn...will have to buy more or have a mostly-undone sweater around the house forever (or throw it away, perish the thought!).  Not looking forward to spending the cash, but even less do I want a sweater with 1.5 sleeves.

Sounds like you are doing OK. Those items are tools, not use-up-able items that I think this thread addresses.  Except the zippers. 

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #119 on: October 14, 2015, 08:07:41 PM »
I figure that it makes sense to accumulate a certain amount of stuff - tools, basics that will be used, etc. In the meantime, it all fits in a tub I got from my parent's basement (free!). I'm being careful not to buy stuff that doesn't have a purpose, and I don't have a problem storing the tub. Since I'm just starting to learn to sew, I'll be in overall acquisition mode for a while. I have a track record of not buying unnecessary items, so hopefully that'll keep me out of trouble.

Of course, that could be famous last words. My goal (at this stage) is to make a historically accurate, Elizabethan era court gown. It's a lot of pieces, and I am no where near good enough yet to attempt this. I have 2 pairs of pj pants to make first, then we'll see where I go from there.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #120 on: October 15, 2015, 01:19:31 PM »
Seems like a good plan. I found with knitting that certain tools I just had to use before I could decide they were not for me. If you can find a way to do that without buying, more power to you.

Good luck with your historical costume. Don't let it daunt you ;hopefully it serves as inspiration instead.

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #121 on: October 15, 2015, 03:09:58 PM »
I figure that it makes sense to accumulate a certain amount of stuff - tools, basics that will be used, etc. In the meantime, it all fits in a tub I got from my parent's basement (free!). I'm being careful not to buy stuff that doesn't have a purpose, and I don't have a problem storing the tub. Since I'm just starting to learn to sew, I'll be in overall acquisition mode for a while. I have a track record of not buying unnecessary items, so hopefully that'll keep me out of trouble.

Of course, that could be famous last words. My goal (at this stage) is to make a historically accurate, Elizabethan era court gown. It's a lot of pieces, and I am no where near good enough yet to attempt this. I have 2 pairs of pj pants to make first, then we'll see where I go from there.

Wow, your goal to make court gown is very ambitious! Glad you are making the PJ pants first - practice is really helpful.
Might be helpful to try a few more simpler projects beforehand as well, the dress sounds complicated. But what do I know about an Elizabethan dress? Nothing. I'll hav to look it up.
Good luck :)

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #122 on: October 15, 2015, 07:06:08 PM »
I figure that it makes sense to accumulate a certain amount of stuff - tools, basics that will be used, etc. In the meantime, it all fits in a tub I got from my parent's basement (free!). I'm being careful not to buy stuff that doesn't have a purpose, and I don't have a problem storing the tub. Since I'm just starting to learn to sew, I'll be in overall acquisition mode for a while. I have a track record of not buying unnecessary items, so hopefully that'll keep me out of trouble.

Of course, that could be famous last words. My goal (at this stage) is to make a historically accurate, Elizabethan era court gown. It's a lot of pieces, and I am no where near good enough yet to attempt this. I have 2 pairs of pj pants to make first, then we'll see where I go from there.
Oh, after I finish a suit of late 15th century Spanish for my husband, I've got at 1555 Florentine on the list.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #123 on: October 16, 2015, 10:27:53 AM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #124 on: October 16, 2015, 12:27:29 PM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html
Are you in the Elizabethan Costume group on Facebook? Because SO. MUCH. KNOWLEDGE. (And Drea is in there too)

Oh, but note that page looks a little outdated, unless you're aiming 1590s. There isn't any record for boned corsets before at absolute earliest the 1580s, and the earliest surviving one is 1599, if i'm remembering right.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #125 on: October 16, 2015, 05:27:08 PM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html
Are you in the Elizabethan Costume group on Facebook? Because SO. MUCH. KNOWLEDGE. (And Drea is in there too)

Oh, but note that page looks a little outdated, unless you're aiming 1590s. There isn't any record for boned corsets before at absolute earliest the 1580s, and the earliest surviving one is 1599, if i'm remembering right.

I didn't know about it! Thanks, I just looked it up. I haven't started planning yet, I'm still working on learning to sew :)  Once I get a little better, I'll figure out more exactly what I want to make, time period wise. There was a huge range of styles during Elizabeth's reign, so I've got options. I will do much more research when I get closer to making it a reality.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #126 on: October 16, 2015, 05:42:45 PM »
Sounds fun Sibley!  I've make a considerable amount of medieval garb, though nothing so ornate as Elizabethan court clothes.  You might want to start (after your pajamas of course) with a smaller item like a shift or perhaps peasant clothing.  I worked my way up to the corset, that was quite the undertaking, though I was extremely pleased with the results once I figured out the pattern and best fit for me.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #127 on: October 16, 2015, 08:36:01 PM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html

Sibley, once you master that, you will be able to do ANYTHING! :)  I attend Renaissance Faires every year & dress as below merchant class but above peasant.  It's probably not authentic, but I'm just there to have fun.  Anyway, I see costumes like those in your link...I had no idea how many layers went into it, although they do look heavy.  I have a newfound respect for those who dress this way, especially the women!  Thanks for sharing.

Maco and Zaga, would love to see pics of something you made!  I promise to gush over them :)

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #128 on: October 16, 2015, 08:54:30 PM »
Sounds like a very exciting project. I checked out your link & Google image glance as well. Wow! It could be tricky and time consuming especially being you're learning, but will be so worth it! Love to see your progression.
Also, so cool so many if you are also into these projects as well.

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #129 on: October 16, 2015, 09:58:03 PM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html

Sibley, once you master that, you will be able to do ANYTHING! :)  I attend Renaissance Faires every year & dress as below merchant class but above peasant.  It's probably not authentic, but I'm just there to have fun.  Anyway, I see costumes like those in your link...I had no idea how many layers went into it, although they do look heavy.  I have a newfound respect for those who dress this way, especially the women!  Thanks for sharing.

Maco and Zaga, would love to see pics of something you made!  I promise to gush over them :)

So are others of you in the SCA?

Here is an album with my "good" garb (my St Clare dresses aren't on there)

oneday

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #130 on: October 17, 2015, 12:34:31 AM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html

Sibley, once you master that, you will be able to do ANYTHING! :)  I attend Renaissance Faires every year & dress as below merchant class but above peasant.  It's probably not authentic, but I'm just there to have fun.  Anyway, I see costumes like those in your link...I had no idea how many layers went into it, although they do look heavy.  I have a newfound respect for those who dress this way, especially the women!  Thanks for sharing.

Maco and Zaga, would love to see pics of something you made!  I promise to gush over them :)

So are others of you in the SCA?

Here is an album with my "good" garb (my St Clare dresses aren't on there)

maco, to be clear, I am not SCA or affiliated with any kind of official group.  I just go with friends every year & dress up...we like to dress up :)

Wow, you made those?  I mean, not that I doubt you, just, it's hard to grasp sometimes when one's own self doesn't have the skills.  They are all amazing...the pink one you did all by hand?!?!  That is real dedication, and it looks out of this world.  And the eyelets on the Florentine dress...you do awesome work!

Lizzy B.

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #131 on: October 17, 2015, 07:46:12 AM »
Glad I'm not the only one! Luckily, I have several friends who do cosplay so I can get help from them if I need. But I'm stubborn, so I don't want to :)

I got several patterns from Joann's when they had a sale, $2 each. PJ pants are first. Am considering making PJs for my parents for Christmas. Also have a dress pattern, I liked the picture on the front.

If you're curious, here's one of the sources I'm using for the court gown.
http://www.elizabethancostume.net/overview.html

Sibley, once you master that, you will be able to do ANYTHING! :)  I attend Renaissance Faires every year & dress as below merchant class but above peasant.  It's probably not authentic, but I'm just there to have fun.  Anyway, I see costumes like those in your link...I had no idea how many layers went into it, although they do look heavy.  I have a newfound respect for those who dress this way, especially the women!  Thanks for sharing.

Maco and Zaga, would love to see pics of something you made!  I promise to gush over them :)

So are others of you in the SCA?

Here is an album with my "good" garb (my St Clare dresses aren't on there)
Oh my goodness those are LOVELY!  In high school I made a corset dress from a simplicity pattern. Since I don't do SCA or anything, I only get to wear it at Halloween. I have mad respect for people who do this without a pattern as you appear to. I have much to learn!

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #132 on: October 17, 2015, 07:56:13 AM »
Wow, you made those?  I mean, not that I doubt you, just, it's hard to grasp sometimes when one's own self doesn't have the skills.  They are all amazing...the pink one you did all by hand?!?!  That is real dedication, and it looks out of this world.  And the eyelets on the Florentine dress...you do awesome work!
The grey/black dress is the only machine-sewn one on the page

I have mad respect for people who do this without a pattern as you appear to. I have much to learn!
The pink dress, I made my own sloper. The grey and burgundy dresses, I did from a scale bodice pattern someone posted online. The skirts are just rectangles with lots of pleats. The black sleeves are modified from a scale pattern posted online.  The Viking outfit... the under dress I drafted based on archaeological drawings, while the over dress is based on this theory.

I just got a copy of the Costume Technician's Handbook (yay for credit card reward points!) and was excitedly pawing through it yesterday. My goal is to recreate clothing as the tailors of the time would, but having all that information about fit and drafting....squee!

And thank you both for the compliments. This is the 1555 outfit I want to do. Somewhere in there I'll also make some 14th century happen. I got some lovely purple wool at JoAnns (actual wool, yeah, and more'n half off!) a while back that I intend to turn into a gothic fitted dress.
« Last Edit: October 17, 2015, 08:00:21 AM by maco »

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #133 on: October 17, 2015, 10:30:55 AM »
I went thru my fabric again and am donating half. Keeping in mind I already used all my previous stock when preparing for the art show. So I'm up for a few more donations ( I upcycle only ) , then will cap, and use up the new stock.

Zaga

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #134 on: October 17, 2015, 05:26:30 PM »
Yes, I'm in the SCA.  Met my husband at Pennsic (we live 20 minutes from there) and we had a medieval wedding, I think our wedding clothes are 14th century Norman.  Of course I still use them for fancy garb occasions.

Here's a few pics.  A corset I custom made for my friend.  Wedding pics, DH made those clothes.  Me and DH, the clothes I'm wearing I made including my corset.  Which sadly doesn't fit any longer, so I sold it on Etsy.

Anatidae V

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #135 on: October 17, 2015, 06:16:36 PM »
Wow, ask the period costumes are amazing! I made bags from t shirts this weekend, which are not even as impressive as pajama pants.

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #136 on: October 17, 2015, 08:40:25 PM »
Zaga: are you in Barony Marche? I grew up there but didn't start playing until I moved to Atlantia.

choppingwood

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #137 on: October 17, 2015, 09:43:12 PM »
Reminder: the thread is about using up fabrics, sewing, and crafting supplies.

Not about sharing ideas and successes of past and future proposed projects, unless they do what the thread is about.

Though your enthusiasm is great....

Zaga

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #138 on: October 18, 2015, 08:25:39 AM »
Zaga: are you in Barony Marche? I grew up there but didn't start playing until I moved to Atlantia.
I'm further north than that, on the southern end of Hunters Home.

Sorry choppingwood, you're right about being off topic.

I have plans to use up smaller pieces of several fabrics by making doll clothes.  My friend has patterns because I've never made doll clothes before and I'm not sure where to start.  I have 3 dolls right now that need clothed.

oneday

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #139 on: October 19, 2015, 01:40:49 PM »
Sorry,  hoppingwood, I think I was the one who derailed the thread.

Zaga, yourpieces are also beautiful!

RetiredAt63

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #140 on: October 20, 2015, 08:21:33 AM »
Basic question - I want to make some heat bags, the ones that are fabric stuffed with a grain that heat up in the microwave.  I have an old 100% cotton sweatshirt I am willing to sacrifice for the fabric - it is thick and tight so I think it should work.  Question - what grain?  Wheat? Rice? Oats? Something else?  Has anyone tried various ones?  I don't want the house to smell like cooking when I heat them up!  And it is so nice to tuck a bunch of them in bed a few minutes ahead of bedtime, so the bed is cosy when I get in.

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #141 on: October 20, 2015, 09:54:28 AM »
Basic question - I want to make some heat bags, the ones that are fabric stuffed with a grain that heat up in the microwave.  I have an old 100% cotton sweatshirt I am willing to sacrifice for the fabric - it is thick and tight so I think it should work.  Question - what grain?  Wheat? Rice? Oats? Something else?  Has anyone tried various ones?  I don't want the house to smell like cooking when I heat them up!  And it is so nice to tuck a bunch of them in bed a few minutes ahead of bedtime, so the bed is cosy when I get in.
Barley and white rice (don't go with brown, the oils in it can go rancid) are common ones, often with a bit of lavender mixed in.

RetiredAt63

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #142 on: October 20, 2015, 02:25:50 PM »
Thanks, I'll try one of each and see which I like better.
The "More processed the better" makes sense, I am not going for nutritional value here.

Basic question - I want to make some heat bags, the ones that are fabric stuffed with a grain that heat up in the microwave.  I have an old 100% cotton sweatshirt I am willing to sacrifice for the fabric - it is thick and tight so I think it should work.  Question - what grain?  Wheat? Rice? Oats? Something else?  Has anyone tried various ones?  I don't want the house to smell like cooking when I heat them up!  And it is so nice to tuck a bunch of them in bed a few minutes ahead of bedtime, so the bed is cosy when I get in.
Barley and white rice (don't go with brown, the oils in it can go rancid) are common ones, often with a bit of lavender mixed in.

theadvicist

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #143 on: October 23, 2015, 02:46:12 AM »
My problem is always that to finish a project and use up a fabric, I always seem to need to buy something. For example I just made a dress, but I needed specialist knit interfacing to support the neckline facing. So I had to buy a meter of that, to use a tiny amount, and now that's in my stash, even though the main dress fabric got used up.
The store wouldn't sell you a half or quarter meter?

Unfortunately not, I can't get it locally and the online shop only sells in full 1m lengths. I know I will use it eventually... it just feels like it's adding to the stash, not reducing it.

I have so many plans for things to make with my lovely fabrics, but just not enough time / energy to sew at the moment, sob.

Maya

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #144 on: October 25, 2015, 07:47:12 PM »
Failed for Halloween. Bought new fabric to make the kids costumes. So need to use up the fleece I have on hand but didn't have the right colours.

Sibley

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #145 on: October 26, 2015, 08:11:06 AM »
Good use for fleece if you have pets - put it on beds, furniture, whatever where the pet sleeps/sits a lot. Animals tend to love it, it's washable, cheep, doesn't need to be edged at all, etc. Also, you can happily donate it to animal shelters, etc.

Great for times like 5am this morning when the cat woke me up throwing up. On the bed. Luckily, on the fleece, that is there specifically to protect the bedspread for incidents like this. Bundled it up and threw it in the corner, I'll just run it through the washer later with whatever other cat blankets I grab.

RetiredAt63

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #146 on: November 07, 2015, 08:49:03 AM »
Re heat bag, Bulk Barn had oats, so they will be the grain. Now to find 100% cotton thread, I worry about polyester thread in the microwave.  If I can`t find it at a regular fabric store, there are some quilting supply stores near me that are likely to have it.

On a "knit the stash" note, someone at Guild showed me Continental Combination knitting.  I have been practising using YouTube videos, and wow.  Even as awkward as a new technique is at first, I am almost as fast as I was with my old English style.  Just have to get my tension consistent, and get used to new ways to decrease.  Except for one skein for a Christmas present, I have been "cold sheeping" for warn and fiber.  I might actually get a lot of the stash knit in time for next August (Twist).

riverffashion

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #147 on: November 07, 2015, 10:30:58 AM »
Almost done with a dress & a handbag- Using up scraps of black and red tones. Im thinking my Spring pieces will feature bright color, so am still accepting castoffs, which believe me are really easy to come by. I'm now very discerning about what I bring into my home. I know just what feel, weight, colors I like. I will certainly use everything in this one compact basket. 

maco

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #148 on: November 09, 2015, 08:06:29 AM »
Re heat bag, Bulk Barn had oats, so they will be the grain. Now to find 100% cotton thread, I worry about polyester thread in the microwave.  If I can`t find it at a regular fabric store, there are some quilting supply stores near me that are likely to have it.
Gutermann makes 100% cotton

onehair

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Re: Using up fabrics , sewing, and crafting supplies
« Reply #149 on: November 09, 2015, 08:39:15 AM »
I am going to use up my dried rose petals for rose petal sugar scrubs with a mix of rose and vanilla oils for christmas gifts.  I have had those petals for way too long.....