When I first started making pleated ruffles for my historical ensembles I used straight pins and a ruler. I didn’t know any different. You’ll find a variety of ways to make pleats, but this one worked well for me. And I’ll still use it when it’s the look I’m going for. So when you don’t Read More...
Tag: Pressing
6 Traits of Accomplished Historical Costumers
We all have those few REALLY good costumers who we look up to and admire. Your list of names may be similar to mine but both contain brilliant, creative people who astound and inspire us. We want to be them when we grow up! No matter the simplicity or detail produced by your sewing heroes, Read More...
8 Historical Sewing Mistakes You Don’t Know You’re Making
As we worry about how that seam or hem will come out, we also fret over whether we’re doing it right or not. I say, don’t worry about “doing it right.” Sew your project how you see fit. Use a new technique you’ve read up on. Practice – again- that same step you’re always trying Read More...
Ironing Paper Patterns
Yes, it may sound kinda strange to be ironing patterns… but you really can do it! Although, I only do this on tissue patterns – not the heavy bond paper patterns that are so common amongst independent pattern publishers. But for the Big 4 companies (Simplicity, Butterick, McCall’s and Vogue) and others who publish tissue-printed Read More...
Top 10 Sewing Tips
Top 10 sewing tips – Ha! We’ve all heard that one before. As if there could only be 10. As if only 10 mattered. As if your 10 would be the same as mine. You may be an experienced dressmaker and have your own Top 10 best tips. That’s awesome! They may be the same Read More...
Flatlining in the 1860s
No, I’m not actually talking about dying or death (although so much of it happened in the early years of this decade because of the American Civil War). I’m also not discussing how a costume project nearly “kills you” in its journey to completion. (ha!) Flatlining in the dressmaking or costuming sense is the technique Read More...
Getting Fabric to Play Nice in the Washing Machine
Whenever I make something with cotton I always run it through my washing machine to pre-treat. I do this even if I plan to rarely clean the costume or take it to the dry cleaners. And most of the time I will throw the newly purchased fabric into the washer as soon as I get Read More...
Conquering Velvet: 24 Tips to Ease Your Fears of Working With This Majestic Textile
Oh the beauty of luxurious, silky smooth velvet! Oh the headache of trying to make something with it! Most costumers I’ve run into have fallen in love with at least one garment made from velvet. It’s so beautiful. One of my favorites is the burgundy cut velvet one from the Kyoto Costume Institute. Read More...