"Sew Me" Project was a success in 2013. So let's do it again!

I did it!

I told you I was going to sew all my clothes in 2013, and not buy anything new.

I did it!

I made two pairs of pants, two skirts, 10 knit tops and eight dresses. I'm sure I saved a lot of money, but I really don't know how much. I used a lot of fabric that I had stashed away.

Let me just say my husband is very happy with me. Full disclosure, he did buy me a purple dress for a conference. He had to take it back because he got me the wrong size. Once he got me the right size I had to bring down the hem. I little too short for my taste.

I did buy under clothing. No way would I attempt attempt to make a bra.  I visited department stores to see the trends and get ideas.  But I stuck to my promise and feel good about what I accomplished.

And it did feel good to tell people "I made this" when they paid me a compliment on my dress or top.

So I have decided that I will continue sewing my own clothes for 2014. This also includes me re- purposing clothes.  I will visit thrift stores and make something out of an outfit getting a second life.

Try it! It's fun and it really pushes you to become creative. I finally had dresses that were  the perfect fit for my body. I'm one size on top and another on the bottom.

I'll  keep you posted.

Join us on our Facebook page: The Best Crafters

Happy Crafting!


Rebecca

Learn How to Sew with a Pattern, It's Easy

When I let the world know that I was going to sew all my new clothes in 2013, I didn't expect such a great response.  I think I motivated many people to do the same or at least take on sewing.

Many of you told me that you don't know how to sew and didn't even have sewing classes offered in high school.  I learned how to sew from my mother, but I also learned a lot from my Home Economics teacher in high school.  Today it's called "Home Living" in most schools.

I've been busy sewing a cape, blouse and pants in the past few weeks. I'll be showing them off in the coming days.  I use patterns to make most of my clothes.  I  know the fewer pattern pieces, the easier it is to sew the project.

Do you want to learn how to use patterns?  Here's one of the best tutorials that I found on YouTube. It was produced by Threads Magazine.

Buy a pattern of your choice and follow what this instructor has to say.





BUYING A PATTERN

Patterns can be expensive.  Some can cost up to 30 dollars.  I always buy them on sale, and I will wait for a good sale before I purchase one.  Jo-Ann Fabrics and Hancock Fabrics always have sales going on.  You can also buy some cheap ones on EBay.  You'll find plenty of patterns at thrift
stores too.

If you're afraid to tear up a good pattern, feel free to copy it on wax paper, and experiment.  But remember, patterns are made to be used over and over again. Take the plunge and start sewing.
Now let's go shopping for a pattern.