I frequently get questions from our many readers about patterns that call for both an underlining/interlining fabric as well as a full lining fabric for a bodice and even skirts. They range from “So that makes three layers, right?” to “How in the world do I add all those layers of fabric?” and “Won’t all Read More...
More Dirndl Goodness
So many of you have followed me throughout the years – thank you! – and noticed when I started talking about Bavarian (Germany) and Austrian dirndls. It was just over two years ago. You can watch a Facebook Live I did in February 2018 when my excitement blossomed. It’s so thrilling to have discovered in Read More...
Bustle Era Changes – The Highs & Lows in the 1870s & 1880s
Ahh.. the Victorian Bustle Era. It’s so pretty! And aside from the huge poufy sleeves of the 1890s, it’s what most people think of when they hear “Victorian.” It’s the trimming. The opulence. The expensive laces. The multitude of fabrics – all on the same gown. But did you know there are three distinct varieties Read More...
Spoonflower Fabrics: My First Experiences
In a world with thousands of fabrics in various prints and designs and colors, sometimes you just don’t find what you’re looking for. Enter Spoonflower (in 2008) to allow us to order fabric in custom prints. Whoot! The concept is fabulous! However, as the company was starting to grow many of us sew-ers were curious Read More...
Costume College 2019
Another great weekend event! So fun to spend time with old friends, and meet SO many new people – even if you’ve been following me for years – yay! After all the online drama that occurred this past year regarding Costume College (specifically at the beginning of the calendar year) I was doubting my attendance. Read More...
Inventing the Wheel, or Clues to How to Start a Design
Think back to when you were new to sewing. Perhaps it was last week. Or maybe 40 years ago. Remember how intimidating a new design was? You thought, “I want to make THAT.” You bought a gorgeous blue fabric only to find yourself staring at the picture wondering how to even begin such a thing. Read More...
How to Grade Seam Allowances
Do you make the grade? It’s super important to get into the habit of grading your seams, and I highly recommend it! The process of grading your seam allowances (aka trimming to various widths) is fairly easy to understand. However, this sewing technique can be time consuming. But don’t let that stop you! Making the Read More...
Packing for a Weekend Event (like Costume College)
Are you one that scrambles as you pack for a costume event? Stress levels go up. And that gnawing feeling that you’ll forget something important. Many years ago I discovered a handy way to keep track of all my costume ensembles for Costume College in both the prep and packing, as well as the wearing Read More...