tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66018163753255248362024-02-21T06:55:57.229-08:00BrushStrokesmarythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-88255537101288502232023-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:002023-02-27T10:19:27.888-08:00Pant Pattern Adjustments (Some Notes)<p> </p><h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pant Pattern Adjustment (Some Notes)</span></h1><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6FZsC4l60XHUVLhh1KY3gaSlaGVg_ludMcTLD7eRtsj_ufbiG4JWvmnImRvt3km8i0lJL90_lqSGD1JWiHemDo-jY1ZTnxL2dNvhEvy7FCN8bplZpfBtoVgyPFnBJn_V_LYubeFydmMGE8SMz2z_La1pd_P0Wd7Z21a6zGwe2ne3eOjPAMuTUQv_tfw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="563" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6FZsC4l60XHUVLhh1KY3gaSlaGVg_ludMcTLD7eRtsj_ufbiG4JWvmnImRvt3km8i0lJL90_lqSGD1JWiHemDo-jY1ZTnxL2dNvhEvy7FCN8bplZpfBtoVgyPFnBJn_V_LYubeFydmMGE8SMz2z_La1pd_P0Wd7Z21a6zGwe2ne3eOjPAMuTUQv_tfw" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></b></span></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALrRaJiTH8U7zotc1vfn4yIqr_QSlVzEAaWlGRcwINUtDwyzRGPd5uoooOYrPSVyL8jbSsI8n2hy-Tg8j8XE2PXG-r9fl0AzNt6knYwRMJ-FqEYoogFZfqPG-Rm4mg1fGQ7-vdSjdCmgA/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="736" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALrRaJiTH8U7zotc1vfn4yIqr_QSlVzEAaWlGRcwINUtDwyzRGPd5uoooOYrPSVyL8jbSsI8n2hy-Tg8j8XE2PXG-r9fl0AzNt6knYwRMJ-FqEYoogFZfqPG-Rm4mg1fGQ7-vdSjdCmgA/w512-h640/image.png" width="512" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo attributed to <a href="http://instagram.com/p/Bn1y-znBz5z/" target="_blank">Beyond_Measure_UK</a> but I'm not totally sure it's theirs).</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></b></div></b><br /><div><b><a href="https://5outof4.com/pants-fitting-guide/" target="_blank">Pants Fitting Guide by 5 out of 4</a> </b>This post gives pretty good descriptions of how to tell why the crotch doesn't look right on an individual based primarily on the wrinkles and bulges. </div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://5outof4.com/tin-foil-crotch-curve-method-pants-fitting/" target="_blank">Tin Foil Crotch Curve by 5 out of 4</a></b> This post has a DIY way of determining your crotch curve (you can also use a flexible ruler). Their video of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JT8yKwkPA70&ab_channel=5outof4Patterns" target="_blank">Tin Foil Crotch Curve</a>.</h3><div><i><b>{I have tried this and LOVE the results. I'd post a pic here, but unfortunately, this project is a UFO. lol}</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.sewalongs.com/sorbetto/full-abdomen-adjustment/" target="_blank"><b>Full Tummy Adjustment</b></a> If your garment offers a good fit in the back, but the front feels tight in the abdomen, you need a full tummy adjustment. A fuller abdomen requires two things: additional room in the midsection as well as a little extra length. This post also tells you how and when to raise and lower darts. This adjustment is super easy and will help you achieve a better fit.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>A good video tutorial by Dorothy Daughter on adjusting patterns based on "reading the wrinkles."</div><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmZNrqe_bSw" target="_blank">Adjusting The Front of Pant Patterns</a> </div><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4u-2tFJX3g&t" target="_blank">Adjust The Back Of Pant Patterns </a> (Ex. Flat butt (13 min), Low seat (15 min). </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVCLqCAMoKSSR4csjCZTSwg6xaACam7Q6Dw0a3NWDyNPce6hJx9On9hevU4a_AnTHwoVWI3cPvEiWJjNEBJ5n90FgavIL4SEUEWSV0hA_BdQux1iUlZTOngyQfdkgnTNizQgBqDdvKVIzXC0ywyAanZDvDNcq1rNmeHLNLtt7FkG_nKh3KKDgxwAktig" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="474" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVCLqCAMoKSSR4csjCZTSwg6xaACam7Q6Dw0a3NWDyNPce6hJx9On9hevU4a_AnTHwoVWI3cPvEiWJjNEBJ5n90FgavIL4SEUEWSV0hA_BdQux1iUlZTOngyQfdkgnTNizQgBqDdvKVIzXC0ywyAanZDvDNcq1rNmeHLNLtt7FkG_nKh3KKDgxwAktig=w310-h400" width="310" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I like this tutorial on blocking/drafting a pattern based on crotch curves. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/LI-eiEzKl8k" width="480"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">https://youtu.be/LI-eiEzKl8k</span></b></div><br /></div><div><b>This post has a ton of resources for fitting and constructing pants</b> - <a href="http://curvysewingcollective.com/pantsmaking-resources-fitting-and-construction/" target="_blank">http://curvysewingcollective.com/pantsmaking-resources-fitting-and-construction/ </a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Tips For Stopping Shorts From Riding/Bunching Up</b></h3></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhblImrYEK0piZJ32Oq_0v7zbGT03EUcl_wy4ZPreUOopFq-ioYDi4q3R87lUrkMeySzH4bI4T4SQgc7d_s9EDIzpA2pAj1Zr_XAV1HHsKGISK2UbeGNu7HbA2DKDW8tsXIX0iHBWLs13AtVkIU40J726B41On4uN-6TBLt2eG6C1j8Tb_QRJ-qjONctA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhblImrYEK0piZJ32Oq_0v7zbGT03EUcl_wy4ZPreUOopFq-ioYDi4q3R87lUrkMeySzH4bI4T4SQgc7d_s9EDIzpA2pAj1Zr_XAV1HHsKGISK2UbeGNu7HbA2DKDW8tsXIX0iHBWLs13AtVkIU40J726B41On4uN-6TBLt2eG6C1j8Tb_QRJ-qjONctA" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><b>1. Wear The Right Length for your body</b>. Not only do you not want short's hems to go across the widest part of your thigh (drawing attention to that part) but if your pants are too short then that wider part of your thigh actually pushes them up into the crotch area. <div><div></div></div><blockquote><div><div>Stand in front of your mirror in just your undies.Take a look at those legs in total honesty. The length of any bottom garment should hit right where your leg gets to a thinner part, a <b>slim zone</b>. You will probably have a few of these locations on your legs.</div><div><br /></div><div>When you try on shorts, stand back and see if they land within those slim zones.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most of us girls have some sort of “swell” at our upper thigh. If you’re lucky like me, you have a super ample thigh in every direction. I want my shorts to hit where that curve is completely resolved. For me, that means about a 6”- 7” inseam. Absolutely NO shorter if you want the to hit at a more slimming length.</div><div><br /></div><div>A mid length short that has a bit of looseness is my most flattering because it doesn’t create a horizontal line across the widest part of my thigh. It’s also long enough to cover that part under my “hind cheeks” that I call “my second butt”. <a href="https://dimplesonmywhat.com/50-fat-free-to-wear-shorts/" target="_blank">50, Fat & Free to Wear Shorts</a></div></div><div></div></blockquote><div><b>2. Polyester boning</b> - Try adding flexible covered polyester boning to the inseam. (you can also order iron-in or adhesive boning designed specifically for shorts - <a href="https://noriders.com/">https://noriders.com/</a> )<div><br /></div><div><b>3. Garment Weights</b> - Add garment weights to the hem. This works best for loose, flowy skirts and shorts.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Size Up and Tailor To Fit </b>- Purchase or pattern shorts that fit your largest dimension (or even a size above that) -- for me this is the butt! and then tailor/alter to fit the rest of the body. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>5.</b> <b>Secure the Hem</b> - Wear shorts that have a rolled-up hem or are fairly snug so they cling to the leg instead of going traveling up north!</div></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-27408424559116430422022-01-04T22:24:00.003-08:002022-01-26T12:56:19.319-08:00Customized Wedding Gown<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl0nHGYshfNb1uCKjyaPOCKQy_AGkM8ILTFYA3FBToEpfkDwsj5s_yYvZ9hMPXO1wQr9t1Sd5HUZjDJFdqqZQAt3EebhIQrC6CjDs1V76pFXSUlgnv0p3_svYJmkCRAPAANlRKL1WC8gzxybQZq15YTyVXcH-uYaMOs9giF7tWdT_aPQgqmOLANIvytA=s2993" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2993" data-original-width="2353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl0nHGYshfNb1uCKjyaPOCKQy_AGkM8ILTFYA3FBToEpfkDwsj5s_yYvZ9hMPXO1wQr9t1Sd5HUZjDJFdqqZQAt3EebhIQrC6CjDs1V76pFXSUlgnv0p3_svYJmkCRAPAANlRKL1WC8gzxybQZq15YTyVXcH-uYaMOs9giF7tWdT_aPQgqmOLANIvytA=s320" width="252" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This bride wanted to change her wedding dress to add a blue ombre effect to the skirt and add a few inches to the bodice width. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><h1 style="text-align: left;"><b>Designing the Ombre Look</b></h1><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Finding Fabric</b></h2><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First, we need to start by finding the fabric needed. We measured the full circumference of the dress hem. (~278"). Then the length of the train from the waist to the end of the train (~63"). It took quite a while but we finally found a fabric that had the right texture, sheer but not so sheer that you couldn't see it, the right colors, the ombre going in the right direction on the fabric, and most importantly there was enough available to make the whole skirt! We looked at fabric stores, curtains, sheets... and finally made an amazing find on amazon. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7SkNbRcrBulHOvhI6hFXgRXb7qksAgF98bUJWd531VNVQIBwlh2XccNLUIDkyQ6k7-9fm6lAsS-CA6D-rnXsA_CUmymsB9BISrHihObgiUpCvIesxWSEHWLEW2vgFIk0Qxrddoz7LFqP0__Q4k_17ZAZm1jVBVBYWiOZJhyrKsARtpOaqKpJbaUHQZQ=s497" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="497" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7SkNbRcrBulHOvhI6hFXgRXb7qksAgF98bUJWd531VNVQIBwlh2XccNLUIDkyQ6k7-9fm6lAsS-CA6D-rnXsA_CUmymsB9BISrHihObgiUpCvIesxWSEHWLEW2vgFIk0Qxrddoz7LFqP0__Q4k_17ZAZm1jVBVBYWiOZJhyrKsARtpOaqKpJbaUHQZQ=w200-h191" width="200" /></a></div>NICETOWN Navy Blue Ombre Sheer Panels for Indoor Outdoor Wedding Ceremony/Party/Pergola Canopy, 2 Panels, W60 x L216</div></div></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFSR5WQ8YA78-J-XbvlGgoeH9PSdGb4KK-b-eR1WMKQs8vyiX-OEAfIfqrOvs7ge1GN49iSIIY-v5z9fmWxxnYXnptio0l68ptTtE5OvZVCgmMubdG0QVsDIoLiHwVENWKvbKSFcdt05t6tXrnnSfvJeoJZYqDXFoDUvUSGIJr5r9z5wXOwUd6akuuZg=s2048" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFSR5WQ8YA78-J-XbvlGgoeH9PSdGb4KK-b-eR1WMKQs8vyiX-OEAfIfqrOvs7ge1GN49iSIIY-v5z9fmWxxnYXnptio0l68ptTtE5OvZVCgmMubdG0QVsDIoLiHwVENWKvbKSFcdt05t6tXrnnSfvJeoJZYqDXFoDUvUSGIJr5r9z5wXOwUd6akuuZg=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></p> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08P4KQLPS">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08P4KQLPS</a></div></div></blockquote><p> </p><h1 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h1><p>The bride wanted the darkest part of the ombre at the end of the train so the lightest part of the sheer would be at the waist. This meant the front of the skirt wouldn't be as dark at the hem as the back of the skirt (the train). </p><p>The skirt as a whole was a tube but the front was hemmed to floor length so the bride could walk; therefore, the hem on the front of the dress was a much lighter blue than the hem of the train.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiTZ14rcShrk2CdhRPHO2uEoRbmidf2mqfeg7jVlIXfqdG_8kwUZFxxV8dw-HmJ_Mw24feUOCKBvORGEu-mPhPL6BJnq55xjg0gIl81cVvshDPv6oCik2dG8Pmb-GFizZE7Zzk5lHaBQ3RDqqrmUTe3m13_yVtrDmGBQPkWMRj-BUAjfGkg_X4lKkE6Q=s2710" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2710" data-original-width="2700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiTZ14rcShrk2CdhRPHO2uEoRbmidf2mqfeg7jVlIXfqdG_8kwUZFxxV8dw-HmJ_Mw24feUOCKBvORGEu-mPhPL6BJnq55xjg0gIl81cVvshDPv6oCik2dG8Pmb-GFizZE7Zzk5lHaBQ3RDqqrmUTe3m13_yVtrDmGBQPkWMRj-BUAjfGkg_X4lKkE6Q=s320" width="319" /></a></p><p><b></b></p><blockquote><br /><br /></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Making A Tube Into A Skirt!</b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is an A-line skirt, not a full skirt so the tube needs to be taken in at the waist with darts and seams instead of gathering. The skirt has a circumference of about 280" and the dress waist of about 48". That's a lot of fabric to trim out! The good news is that this ombre layer doesn't have to be perfect because it is going under the top layer of the dress (the top layer is sheer with all of the lace attached to it)! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The bodice has princess seams, darts, side seams, and a back seam. These are where I made darts in the ombre layer to remove excess fabric. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;"><i>All of these numbers are approximate and aren't taking into account seam allowances and ease. This is why I pin/baste everything before cutting!</i></span></b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The Numbers</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>The front panel of the skirt. </u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Front hem circumference ~110". Waist ~25"... amount of fabric needing to be removed ~85". </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Center Front between the princess seams is 8.5". On either side of the princess seams is a pair of darts 3.5" from the princess seam. The side seams are 4.5" out from these darts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That means there are 6 places at the waistline to line up seams/darts in the skirt and take out the excess fabric. 4 darts and both side seams. I view side seams as 1/2 of a dart - the other half comes out of the back of the skirt). So I divided the amount I needed to remove (85") by 5 darts (4 actual darts and the side seam half darts combine to be one). I needed to remove about 17" per dart (only 8.5" on the side seams). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Clear as mud, right?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXCpSF1sF-CbsOY-9KVxfJrXrJVY6I_wfH8GuZj5_f7pgvS-vNBlsgEqOeJZ-4MNMGX5OUqG08J0KqjcPp95oqnhDvOB5tFWmK4vzv1j2r6MRrLKQxNtQae1iLvMDFUFcq4D40AT7Jqi4UVMtaDN772LYUmgHbSOg85QTRDM8p-VpAnrisR8G2TwqOsg=s6000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="6000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXCpSF1sF-CbsOY-9KVxfJrXrJVY6I_wfH8GuZj5_f7pgvS-vNBlsgEqOeJZ-4MNMGX5OUqG08J0KqjcPp95oqnhDvOB5tFWmK4vzv1j2r6MRrLKQxNtQae1iLvMDFUFcq4D40AT7Jqi4UVMtaDN772LYUmgHbSOg85QTRDM8p-VpAnrisR8G2TwqOsg=s320" width="320" /></a></div>The reality is that no one is really looking at this layer. Feel free to play with and tweak it. Spread out the top layer of the skirt, drape your new fabric over it and pin random darts into it if you want to. I wouldn't do too few darts or make them too short or your silhouette won't look very smooth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The fuller you want the skirt to be at the waist, the more you can use gathers or pleats instead of deep darts. Feel free to mix and match darts, gathers, pleats... On this dress, I did some pleats at the back waist instead of darts to leave a little extra fullness in the back. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Before cutting, I pinned and/or basted the darts and seams. I wanted to make sure everything lay smoothly when removing so much fabric.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b></b></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Seam Finishing Tip:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>This ombre synthetic fabric frayed easily. Rather than doing narrow hems or serging yards and yards of raw edges, I burned them! I practiced using scraps a LOT because it was terrifying but once I felt confident, it went quickly! </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>make sure to remove any little strings/threads hanging from the edge (they act as wicks and cause bigger burns)</b></li><li><b>use a candle rather than a lighter - you don't have to struggle to hold the lighter and keep it lit.</b></li><li><b>have a system to move the fabric past the candle quickly and steadily. I attached each end of my fabric to a hangar suspended like a hammock and ran the candle along the fabric edge instead of the fabric edge along the candle.</b></li></ul></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b></b></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLVLKrTCYpXkGaS-lOVbW75WjPTUgUueTuPB75Z3f8nHB8kCwXiLuFkOH1wxXoXCRP8FAjuuC8O4WU-R1oHdXNLMHonu_lveiLkBiunMy47eHoM0MNlURqOmXi2VFM08QQ5lp_Tdgenx3/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="250" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLVLKrTCYpXkGaS-lOVbW75WjPTUgUueTuPB75Z3f8nHB8kCwXiLuFkOH1wxXoXCRP8FAjuuC8O4WU-R1oHdXNLMHonu_lveiLkBiunMy47eHoM0MNlURqOmXi2VFM08QQ5lp_Tdgenx3/" width="273" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h2 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLs0SwmEXFYkoxb7neIR5H6xjkS8mkozCjDk3shpcluvuxW4HMqHWhXZgcaWQPFlDhoWpWsuSvZD-rpvpWcnzWXGLek4WNFyteTzxAuMO04P6TUoDwS4uE_pbQmDOAyTqe5x8B1IquMaZx/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="560" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLs0SwmEXFYkoxb7neIR5H6xjkS8mkozCjDk3shpcluvuxW4HMqHWhXZgcaWQPFlDhoWpWsuSvZD-rpvpWcnzWXGLek4WNFyteTzxAuMO04P6TUoDwS4uE_pbQmDOAyTqe5x8B1IquMaZx/w200-h124/image.png" width="200" /></a></div><b>Adding Inches</b></h2></div>This bride needed a few inches added to the width of the bodice. I let all of the seams out as much as possible but still needed a few more inches across the back. Many brides switch to a corset-style back but this bride wanted to keep the sheer and the button detail.<div><br /></div><div>I cut away the original tulle along the lace edges and replaced it with new (using the original as a template). I extended the bottom edge of the tulle to V downward to fill in the lower back area where the zipper wouldn't zip any higher. (I had the bride switch to a bra with a lower cut back). I then stitched the lace and button tape onto the new back.<br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijgT7a4SVURRfjr9rRLPvdJVgF3bWqpnaxg_5ByZ-GIcAIQG8nNMCpu1oGkhxfTf8ZRU9pHrlEKX2rQDwIII30NDb8F4A-S5JApIDNaoOy5wN_9Rk8294dbPxnDqXHPor-xG9ESo3JvZOQ/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijgT7a4SVURRfjr9rRLPvdJVgF3bWqpnaxg_5ByZ-GIcAIQG8nNMCpu1oGkhxfTf8ZRU9pHrlEKX2rQDwIII30NDb8F4A-S5JApIDNaoOy5wN_9Rk8294dbPxnDqXHPor-xG9ESo3JvZOQ/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuBzsbuzQF1HnkuHtN5hOR4dkaZAtzz9INAyQGV0e6wewYzx_WP65hjTnCumEoFHmkY-ZMmVehqHdfz1RQ2wfajcerWgUDQ7L-uimA0A5nnpgL7qmM7zQgl8glmzAq-BN3soAu85Kk8XpD/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="368" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuBzsbuzQF1HnkuHtN5hOR4dkaZAtzz9INAyQGV0e6wewYzx_WP65hjTnCumEoFHmkY-ZMmVehqHdfz1RQ2wfajcerWgUDQ7L-uimA0A5nnpgL7qmM7zQgl8glmzAq-BN3soAu85Kk8XpD/" width="271" /></a></div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB1qUpzq2I4qFITLgvRqdmws5dv4Oa0VT3zToIoXws5bZ4zpZFxOmUJwop4FNrpO0opHfRjM6lVJTBVyAOhY3MsQ0KuuwF1L-iGYtwLaG2piwAp0eX96eXuLXKsK3Xdl_cqEt0Ge6f1uz-mAxk-WjR3V8bCyKlA46R_yCGG0zgtsxocDpkWrXvhkNdhA=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB1qUpzq2I4qFITLgvRqdmws5dv4Oa0VT3zToIoXws5bZ4zpZFxOmUJwop4FNrpO0opHfRjM6lVJTBVyAOhY3MsQ0KuuwF1L-iGYtwLaG2piwAp0eX96eXuLXKsK3Xdl_cqEt0Ge6f1uz-mAxk-WjR3V8bCyKlA46R_yCGG0zgtsxocDpkWrXvhkNdhA=s320" width="240" /></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhf9e_oomtrj63lkUsqqRwAKM3CJmwN0xr156KH8eCn4KKxzX4Ijz10AbSZySaqKB1Nz27MI75h7vGW53ngMKQginX1ocvZtpnx7PqaDCCT3TxYGXiXbP0NUkGFMuDTQ96HIdsto8f3FQghOAXGOajndltk0W9t-6ioWL_cT_QulujT63VVzwaw0NNYfw=s2047" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2047" data-original-width="1146" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhf9e_oomtrj63lkUsqqRwAKM3CJmwN0xr156KH8eCn4KKxzX4Ijz10AbSZySaqKB1Nz27MI75h7vGW53ngMKQginX1ocvZtpnx7PqaDCCT3TxYGXiXbP0NUkGFMuDTQ96HIdsto8f3FQghOAXGOajndltk0W9t-6ioWL_cT_QulujT63VVzwaw0NNYfw=s320" width="179" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><h2><span style="background-color: #f4cccc;">During a fitting, ALWAYS have the client wear the shoes and undergarments that the client will be wearing on the big day. </span></h2></div><blockquote><b>HEMMING TIPS:<br /></b><ol><li><b>When hemming a dress, it helps to have the client look in a full-length mirror so they can see what you're doing without looking down. Looking down drops the hem lower to the floor and when the client straightens back up the dress is too short! Direct the client to look straight ahead with arms hanging loosely at the sides. </b></li><li><b>When working on a dress with a train, always shorten the front of the dress an inch or two shorter than it seems it should be, especially if the bride is not wearing a petticoat. Otherwise, when the bride walks, the dragging train pulls the front of the dress toward the body, which makes the hem lower and causes it to roll under. The bride is more likely to step on the dress and stumble walking up the aisle!</b></li></ol></blockquote><p><b>TIP</b>: To help convince the bride to let you shorten it, fluff out the train and have the bride walk forward about 10 steps (preferably while looking toward a mirror that shows the feet). The bride will see the issue. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfREZFtHPCJ-inUpc2AWcOW4IKKqN0suuWfi-ucdSjZM7u1Knq0Nsu260RxCdrKMaMmtwm3V1oRC-0jDeIFF3QAYlXz-bwjcdvnp5cWwQy1VIRtjeXOgftTMmoevVrTUeNZQm9GUF7d8WaTbeC28pSrJMfiHFHfycDwPhKxK1-k5zTI3NnpRxaygTAXQ=s774" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="774" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgfREZFtHPCJ-inUpc2AWcOW4IKKqN0suuWfi-ucdSjZM7u1Knq0Nsu260RxCdrKMaMmtwm3V1oRC-0jDeIFF3QAYlXz-bwjcdvnp5cWwQy1VIRtjeXOgftTMmoevVrTUeNZQm9GUF7d8WaTbeC28pSrJMfiHFHfycDwPhKxK1-k5zTI3NnpRxaygTAXQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This hem is too long in front!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p></div></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-58129252913684576582021-01-10T13:53:00.018-08:002021-09-28T18:41:06.647-07:00Sewing Room Organization<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><o:wrapblock><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter">
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0">
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1">
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1">
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0">
</v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas>
<v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f">
<o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit">
</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_s1053" style="height: 261pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 35.25pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: center; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; text-align: left; visibility: visible; width: 308.85pt; z-index: 251658240;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.emz">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="topAndBottom">
</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_1" o:spid="_x0000_s1053" style="height: 261pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 35.25pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: center; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; text-align: left; visibility: visible; width: 308.85pt; z-index: 251658240;" type="#_x0000_t75"><br /></v:shape></o:wrapblock><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Sewing Room Organization</span></b></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWUzcd9hOEDtsYALh0aWRAJhGIrI5gydwaD-ABbbnbTwfqZMr5UnLSrQE1bl-MTTbx75hewVZipBanPpBYuNF5IBHg-4pfr5TNtB4BX_GSXMah8x_Wn8oxMgdAENn77zf3cQNSmuFKReG/s412/Peg+board.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWUzcd9hOEDtsYALh0aWRAJhGIrI5gydwaD-ABbbnbTwfqZMr5UnLSrQE1bl-MTTbx75hewVZipBanPpBYuNF5IBHg-4pfr5TNtB4BX_GSXMah8x_Wn8oxMgdAENn77zf3cQNSmuFKReG/s320/Peg+board.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_s1052" style="height: 81.75pt; margin-left: 57.8pt; margin-top: 38.25pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 109pt; z-index: -251656192;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image002.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Pegboard</span></b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">. My favorite aspects - the thread
holder and scissor/ruler hooks. We could also probably find a way to hang
ribbon spools. Clears up shelf/tablespace. </span><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;">https://www.blueistyleblog.com/sewing-room-organization-ideas/</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSnA33dQL86cKUax2Ia8jKt1AprSkZ5lyQMu01U3ssMFoEZwpptjnpalRPRvp8EvfaqMQCDDR-APTy59zRJETeT0SbRV69QaDCeFgRVGWoeL9bmLz7niPcjUWCtACGxPhCfrRqDpR8m0y/s2048/Dry+erase+board+washi+tape.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1295" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSnA33dQL86cKUax2Ia8jKt1AprSkZ5lyQMu01U3ssMFoEZwpptjnpalRPRvp8EvfaqMQCDDR-APTy59zRJETeT0SbRV69QaDCeFgRVGWoeL9bmLz7niPcjUWCtACGxPhCfrRqDpR8m0y/s320/Dry+erase+board+washi+tape.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><b style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><b style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><br /></span></b></span></p>Organizing Chart</span></b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"> Keeps track of multiple projects. Can list them all out as well as where you are with them. </span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><br />Ex. I use a dry-erase board divided into sections with washi tape to keep all my projects, deadlines, and seamstresses organized. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;">I sometimes write my to-do list with a dry-erase marker on the large mirror I use for fittings. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lY-pCVgLqpzgcX48GPznLwKMB3ntoP46QfhFWmwo63R5p9qSGosE_Hcx3-zhLjzjb5QH45pV33zGnylZXZ9AZKa7DNzfAKsbvi3mXcTPRFKXfuIBIIq-jpXJU36dD9OhwWjpSKDqGvn6/s432/Dry+erase+board.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lY-pCVgLqpzgcX48GPznLwKMB3ntoP46QfhFWmwo63R5p9qSGosE_Hcx3-zhLjzjb5QH45pV33zGnylZXZ9AZKa7DNzfAKsbvi3mXcTPRFKXfuIBIIq-jpXJU36dD9OhwWjpSKDqGvn6/s320/Dry+erase+board.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;">A picture frame with w/plain white paper or an empty printed chart inside the frame is quick and portable. You can then write on the glass with a dry erase marker. </span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTomHnUgr8DRj9sKHWeefNQsMgp0T-zIcZQHAUq01g-hc9ACxdkIygATn2MDJtjEyq8G1iUc4OYaz5zkqDKPbQXynaI2uV14hdg0lSUcRsskFlPJW3tzSnrjkxAxxBiWLxJDBV7k0x3LfQ/s260/Quilt.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTomHnUgr8DRj9sKHWeefNQsMgp0T-zIcZQHAUq01g-hc9ACxdkIygATn2MDJtjEyq8G1iUc4OYaz5zkqDKPbQXynaI2uV14hdg0lSUcRsskFlPJW3tzSnrjkxAxxBiWLxJDBV7k0x3LfQ/s0/Quilt.jpg" /></span></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u></u></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 13pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Fabric Management Ideas:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2KPEM5p1fbO6ZH-z4kUB9eZz9y0dDBj9BMh9BCkewwGTi6nb1pszufXGCxNcljfio3ouMKm3jy8iPfnx_DlZLSjhN2JRFdsQWq6ag9KOspqR6VkLsmCYl_OrUlh6tWSEK000ejFKrofU/s547/Fabric+Management.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="547" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2KPEM5p1fbO6ZH-z4kUB9eZz9y0dDBj9BMh9BCkewwGTi6nb1pszufXGCxNcljfio3ouMKm3jy8iPfnx_DlZLSjhN2JRFdsQWq6ag9KOspqR6VkLsmCYl_OrUlh6tWSEK000ejFKrofU/s320/Fabric+Management.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></u></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Styrofoam board</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> - wrap smaller bits of fabric around
a small Styrofoam board and then put them into the shelves organized by color
or print</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_9" o:spid="_x0000_s1046" style="height: 107.95pt; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0.7pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: left; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 162.4pt; z-index: -251648000;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image006.emz"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Fabric folded on
shelves</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> – this might be the cheapest option. I tend to stack in rainbow colors order (ROYGBIV) and keep only one color per stack. One problem with this option is trying to pull one out from the bottom, as
well as having slippery fabric (silk/satin) making things want to slither. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><u>Ruler Folding Technique</u> - Larger yardage - use 5" to 8 1/2″ x 24″ acrylic ruler depending on the width of your shelves or other storage spaces. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><i></i></span></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>For example, if you have a 30" wide bookshelf and you use a 6" ruler, then you can get 5 stacks of fabric per shelf. If you use a 5" ruler than you can get 6 stacks. If you're storing them on end in a drawer or tub that is 9" wide, then you can use the 8 1/2" ruler. </i></span></blockquote><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/uTFO50X8yQg" width="480"></iframe></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red; font-family: arial;"></span></b></span></p><blockquote><b><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pin a post-it with measurement
info to your fabric!</span></b></blockquote><span style="font-family: arial;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3ZFhzOQ_G3qjYrFLhrT1e3OIap0FPWO1VHcQf7rRw-9QFAw4wMWd6Z2opIFM-59JQqfZAw7Pw8qyHRULZItNssUBeQ3Lh_daGAjgKyTJP7Fa9Ccr3JuMyisoZxCZOCgmD-5tSe5jL5hn/s212/Baskets.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="176" data-original-width="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP3ZFhzOQ_G3qjYrFLhrT1e3OIap0FPWO1VHcQf7rRw-9QFAw4wMWd6Z2opIFM-59JQqfZAw7Pw8qyHRULZItNssUBeQ3Lh_daGAjgKyTJP7Fa9Ccr3JuMyisoZxCZOCgmD-5tSe5jL5hn/s0/Baskets.jpg" /></span></a></div><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_10" o:spid="_x0000_s1045" style="height: 131.95pt; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 16.45pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: left; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 159pt; z-index: -251634688;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image007.emz"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Baskets and
clothesline</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> - a
little impractical, but essentially it works great for fabrics of all different
sizes but similar colors.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><br /><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> I have a
lot of small scraps that I use for applique and patchwork that I keep
in a large, legal-size paper organizer with drawers that pull out. They’re
sorted by color (each drawer has a different color) and occasionally by type
(ex. Large Prints, Small Prints, Leather, Denim...). The
scraps are folded and placed on end so that you can see the top edge of each of the
scraps when you pull out the drawer. <br />
</span><u style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;">Rubbermaid Tubs</span></u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"> – Put fabrics on cardboard bolt, write the yardage on the end of the bolt, and set the bolts, labeled end up, in a Rubbermaid tub.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmaa66cyUkSzPOfNvEoI6XVphyphenhyphenKYyPfc_hOPkc-kQBAkFIhilIzYqHHlruNoPayjWjOfSaQFiIOxBjbuXjEkcGpqMXjHmCUvs44LTyc67Lsstbw2PkhkV59JtUHGZqi7UyBLtBnKDYZSv/s248/Bins.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmaa66cyUkSzPOfNvEoI6XVphyphenhyphenKYyPfc_hOPkc-kQBAkFIhilIzYqHHlruNoPayjWjOfSaQFiIOxBjbuXjEkcGpqMXjHmCUvs44LTyc67Lsstbw2PkhkV59JtUHGZqi7UyBLtBnKDYZSv/s0/Bins.jpg" /></span></a></div><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_15" o:spid="_x0000_s1044" style="height: 122.75pt; margin-left: 134.8pt; margin-top: 1.1pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 186pt; z-index: -251632640;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image008.emz"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />Bins </span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">- would require an investment in that
many buckets. Especially ones clear enough to see the fabric in. This seems especially
good for little scraps. Or use larger ones for slippery/specialty fabrics.<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t32" o:oned="t" o:spt="32" path="m,l21600,21600e"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<v:path arrowok="t" fillok="f" o:connecttype="none">
<o:lock shapetype="t" v:ext="edit">
</o:lock></v:path></span></v:shapetype><v:shape id="Straight_x0020_Arrow_x0020_Connector_x0020_18" o:gfxdata="UEsDBBQABgAIAAAAIQC75UiUBQEAAB4CAAATAAAAW0NvbnRlbnRfVHlwZXNdLnhtbKSRvU7DMBSF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" o:spid="_x0000_s1043" strokecolor="red" strokeweight="1pt" style="flip: y; height: 23.25pt; margin-left: 315pt; margin-top: 195pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 9pt; z-index: 251691008;" type="#_x0000_t32">
<v:stroke endarrow="block" joinstyle="miter"><span style="font-family: arial;">
</span></v:stroke></v:shape><v:shape id="Straight_x0020_Arrow_x0020_Connector_x0020_19" o:gfxdata="UEsDBBQABgAIAAAAIQC75UiUBQEAAB4CAAATAAAAW0NvbnRlbnRfVHlwZXNdLnhtbKSRvU7DMBSF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" o:spid="_x0000_s1042" strokecolor="#ed7d31 [3205]" strokeweight="1.5pt" style="flip: x; height: 16.5pt; margin-left: 381pt; margin-top: 165pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 66pt; z-index: 251692032;" type="#_x0000_t32">
<v:stroke endarrow="block" joinstyle="miter"><span style="font-family: arial;">
</span></v:stroke></v:shape></p><p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="_x0000_s1040" o:gfxdata="UEsDBBQABgAIAAAAIQC75UiUBQEAAB4CAAATAAAAW0NvbnRlbnRfVHlwZXNdLnhtbKSRvU7DMBSF
dyTewfKKEqcMCKEmHfgZgaE8wMW+SSwc27JvS/v23KTJgkoXFsu+P+c7Ol5vDoMTe0zZBl/LVVlJ
gV4HY31Xy4/tS3EvRSbwBlzwWMsjZrlprq/W22PELHjb51r2RPFBqax7HCCXIaLnThvSAMTP1KkI
+gs6VLdVdad08ISeCho1ZLN+whZ2jsTzgcsnJwldluLxNDiyagkxOquB2Knae/OLUsyEkjenmdzb
mG/YhlRnCWPnb8C898bRJGtQvEOiVxjYhtLOxs8AySiT4JuDystlVV4WPeM6tK3VaILeDZxIOSsu
ti/jidNGNZ3/J08yC1dNv9v8AAAA//8DAFBLAwQUAAYACAAAACEArTA/8cEAAAAyAQAACwAAAF9y
ZWxzLy5yZWxzhI/NCsIwEITvgu8Q9m7TehCRpr2I4FX0AdZk2wbbJGTj39ubi6AgeJtl2G9m6vYx
jeJGka13CqqiBEFOe2Ndr+B03C3WIDihMzh6RwqexNA281l9oBFTfuLBBhaZ4ljBkFLYSMl6oAm5
8IFcdjofJ0z5jL0MqC/Yk1yW5UrGTwY0X0yxNwri3lQgjs+Qk/+zfddZTVuvrxO59CNCmoj3vCwj
MfaUFOjRhrPHaN4Wv0VV5OYgm1p+LW1eAAAA//8DAFBLAwQUAAYACAAAACEAyfp3jUoDAAAOCwAA
HwAAAGNsaXBib2FyZC9kcmF3aW5ncy9kcmF3aW5nMS54bWzsVm1P2zAQ/j5p/8Hyd2hS0lIqAoKO
okmMoRZ+wNVxGmuO7dmmL/z6nZ0USmFMYts3Uqm1fdfHzz13Ofv4dFVLsuDWCa1ymu4nlHDFdCHU
PKd3t+O9ASXOgypAasVzuuaOnp58/nQMw7kFUwlGEEG5IeS08t4MOx3HKl6D29eGK7SV2tbgcWrn
ncLCEpFr2ekmSb9Tg1D05AnqC3gg91a8A0pq9oMXI1ALcAgp2XB7peUo2d8jw1AtLq2ZmhsbmLPr
xY0losgpKqegRolopzW0bjjt7Pxr/gSwKm0d/HVZklVO+1k2yLo9StaYjTTrD9KkweMrTxg6pGmS
HSW4GUOPLDvsH/baDavvf4Bg1cXbIEizoYODLYrOBIJq8TLm9GAT9G3gd65XpPsYfnAnfoWLyDqm
2ZkrTJMjSo8qUHN+Zq1eVhwKFzwanVDQZp+o2WZLF7Bmy2+6QIHh3uuI94+0ewwbhsY6f8l1TcIg
p5YzH3eCxZXzDcGNS9DEaSmKsZAyTux8NpKWLEDmdByfNqZnblKRZU6PepjktyGS+LwGUQvPLZGi
zung0QmGQckLVcTy8yBkM8bopIolGEQMW/rVNGY05KZYh5UZ/qLAVmPMWFrYD3BQaftAyRLf8py6
n/dgOSXyq8JcHaVZhm4+TrLeYRcndtsy27aAYgiVU09JMxx5nCUxeqXPMJmlaLVteARG0vmpX0se
g4lsQwXUYK8iQxxMNhhSTQ2LUhp2w3yjf5ocojKteNse57zc+HrX+G7cnGFP1rPS7/qh1ptsGBbt
qG2raRTWIkWJhZ1Trvbuptg5H+ILi/JgT2veAV6WWFRNNWGY4IUifm14CQxLewRSzKygxIDSDheS
bjJOevgdPllyEL7RKjyrxlALiU3gABdYBdbxmL2oGIf/AMrcFuitqLkj13xJJroG9YxxN+kj0x7y
DcwPXjBO8VB5zhiFRPGC4P7kis9BEiceOAmNE9MQrME2+1B5qy7erzLq2UoZVP2o2uY9e7+eoUgN
GOzJeMkBhZVrdyqXq+IGLEx+2yBCIj5aAzbJ11rDk3qxF+BxEPrC4+l17/jUTLCrNgd0c7yhR7i3
dHZugvGv7c01XDe35ye/AAAA//8DAFBLAwQUAAYACAAAACEAkn2H4B0HAABJIAAAGgAAAGNsaXBi
b2FyZC90aGVtZS90aGVtZTEueG1s7FlLbxs3EL4X6H9Y7L2xZL1iI3JgyXLcxC9ESoocKYnaZcxd
LkjKjm5FcuqlQIG06KEBeuuhKBqgARr00h9jwEGb/ogOuS9SouIHXCAobAHG7uw3w+HM7Mzs8M7d
ZxH1jjEXhMVtv3qr4ns4HrExiYO2/2iw/dlt3xMSxWNEWYzb/gwL/+7Gp5/cQesjSpIhQ3w8CHGE
PRAUi3XU9kMpk/WVFTECMhK3WIJjeDZhPEISbnmwMuboBBaI6MpqpdJciRCJ/Q2QKJWgHoV/sRSK
MKK8r8RgL0YRrH4wmZAR1tjxUVUhxEx0KfeOEW37IHPMTgb4mfQ9ioSEB22/ov/8lY07K2g9Y6Jy
Ca/Bt63/Mr6MYXy0qtfkwbBYtF5v1JubhXwNoHIR12v1mr1mIU8D0GgEO011sWW2Vrv1DGuA0kuH
7K3WVq1q4Q35tQWdNxvqZ+E1KJVfX8Bvb3fBihZeg1J8YwHf6Kx1tmz5GpTimwv4VmVzq96y5GtQ
SEl8tICuNJq1br7bAjJhdMcJX2vUt1urmfASBdFQRJdaYsJiuSzWIvSU8W0AKCBFksSenCV4gkYQ
k11EyZATb5cEIQRegmImgFxZrWxXavBf/er6SnsUrWNkcCu9QBOxQFL6eGLESSLb/n2Q6huQs7dv
T5+/OX3+++mLF6fPf83W1qIsvh0UBybf+5+++efVl97fv/34/uW36dLzeGHi3/3y1bs//vyQeNhx
aYqz716/e/P67Puv//r5pUP6JkdDEz4gERbePj7xHrIINujQHw/55TgGISImx2YcCBQjtYpDfk+G
Fnp/hihy4DrYtuNjDqnGBbw3fWop3A/5VBKHxAdhZAH3GKMdxp1WeKDWMsw8mMaBe3E+NXEPETp2
rd1FseXl3jSBHEtcIrshttQ8pCiWKMAxlp56xo4wduzuCSGWXffIiDPBJtJ7QrwOIk6TDMjQiqaS
aYdE4JeZS0Hwt2Wbvcdeh1HXrrfwsY2EdwNRh/IDTC0z3kNTiSKXyAGKqGnwXSRDl5L9GR+ZuJ6Q
4OkAU+b1xlgIF88Bh/0aTn8Aacbt9j06i2wkl+TIJXMXMWYit9hRN0RR4sL2SRya2M/FEYQo8g6Z
dMH3mP2GqHvwA4qXuvsxwZa7z88GjyDDmiqVAaKeTLnDl/cws+K3P6MThF2pZpNHVord5MQZHZ1p
YIX2LsYUnaAxxt6jzx0adFhi2bxU+n4IWWUHuwLrPrJjVd3HWGBPNzeLeXKXCCtk+zhgS/TZm80l
nhmKI8SXSd4Hr5s270Gpi1wBcEBHRyZwn0C/B/HiNMqBABlGcC+Vehgiq4Cpe+GO1xm3/HeRdwze
y6eWGhd4L4EHX5oHErvJ80HbDBC1FigDZoCgy3ClW2Cx3F+yqOKq2aZOvon90pZugO7IanoiEp/b
Ac31Po3/rveBDuPsh1eOl+16+h23YCtZXbLTWZZMdub6m2W4+a6my/iYfPxNzRaaxocY6shixrrp
aW56Gv9/39Mse59vOpll/cZNJ+NDh3HTyWTDlevpZMrmBfoaNfBIBz167BMtnfpMCKV9OaN4V+jB
j4DvmfE2EBWfnm7iYgqYhHCpyhwsYOECjjSPx5n8gsiwH6IEpkNVXwkJRCY6EF7CBAyNNNkpW+Hp
NNpj43TYWa2qwWZaWQWSJb3SKOgwqJIputkqB3iFeK1toAetuQKK9zJKGIvZStQcSrRyojKSHuuC
0RxK6J1dixZrDi1uK/G5qxa0ANUKr8AHtwef6W2/UQcWYIJ5HDTnY+Wn1NW5d7Uzr9PTy4xpRQA0
2HkElJ5eU7ou3Z7aXRpqF/C0pYQRbrYS2jK6wRMhfAZn0amoF1Hjsr5eK11qqadModeD0CrVaN3+
kBZX9TXwzecGGpuZgsbeSdtv1hoQMiOUtP0JDI3hMkogdoT65kI0gOOWkeTpC3+VzJJwIbeQCFOD
66STZoOISMw9SqK2r7ZfuIHGOodo3aqrkBA+WuXWIK18bMqB020n48kEj6TpdoOiLJ3eQoZPc4Xz
qWa/Olhxsim4ux+OT7whnfKHCEKs0aoqA46JgLODamrNMYHDsCKRlfE3V5iytGueRukYSumIJiHK
KoqZzFO4TuWFOvqusIFxl+0ZDGqYJCuEw0AVWNOoVjUtqkaqw9Kqez6TspyRNMuaaWUVVTXdWcxa
IS8Dc7a8WpE3tMpNDDnNrPBp6p5PuWt5rpvrE4oqAQYv7OeouhcoCIZq5WKWakrjxTSscnZGtWtH
vsFzVLtIkTCyfjMXO2e3okY4lwPilSo/8M1HLZAmeV+pLe062N5DiTcMqm0fDpdhOPgMruB42gfa
qqKtKhpcwZkzlIv0oLjtZxc5BZ6nlAJTyym1HFPPKfWc0sgpjZzSzClN39MnqnCKrw5TfS8/MIUa
lh2wZr2Fffq/8S8AAAD//wMAUEsDBBQABgAIAAAAIQCcZkZBuwAAACQBAAAqAAAAY2xpcGJvYXJk
L2RyYXdpbmdzL19yZWxzL2RyYXdpbmcxLnhtbC5yZWxzhI/NCsIwEITvgu8Q9m7SehCRJr2I0KvU
BwjJNi02PyRR7Nsb6EVB8LIws+w3s037sjN5YkyTdxxqWgFBp7yenOFw6y+7I5CUpdNy9g45LJig
FdtNc8VZ5nKUxikkUigucRhzDifGkhrRykR9QFc2g49W5iKjYUGquzTI9lV1YPGTAeKLSTrNIXa6
BtIvoST/Z/thmBSevXpYdPlHBMulFxagjAYzB0pXZ501LV2BiYZ9/SbeAAAA//8DAFBLAQItABQA
BgAIAAAAIQC75UiUBQEAAB4CAAATAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABbQ29udGVudF9UeXBlc10ueG1s
UEsBAi0AFAAGAAgAAAAhAK0wP/HBAAAAMgEAAAsAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANgEAAF9yZWxzLy5yZWxz
UEsBAi0AFAAGAAgAAAAhAMn6d41KAwAADgsAAB8AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIAIAAGNsaXBib2FyZC9k
cmF3aW5ncy9kcmF3aW5nMS54bWxQSwECLQAUAAYACAAAACEAkn2H4B0HAABJIAAAGgAAAAAAAAAA
AAAAAACnBQAAY2xpcGJvYXJkL3RoZW1lL3RoZW1lMS54bWxQSwECLQAUAAYACAAAACEAnGZGQbsA
AAAkAQAAKgAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAD8DAAAY2xpcGJvYXJkL2RyYXdpbmdzL19yZWxzL2RyYXdpbmcx
LnhtbC5yZWxzUEsFBgAAAAAFAAUAZwEAAP8NAAAAAA==
" style="height: 35.25pt; margin-left: 435.75pt; margin-top: 18.3pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 3.6pt; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 3.6pt; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; v-text-anchor: top; visibility: visible; width: 87pt; z-index: 251685888;" type="#_x0000_t202"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
<v:textbox>
<!--[if !mso]-->
<!--[endif]--></v:textbox>
<w:wrap type="square">
</w:wrap></span></v:shape><v:shape id="Straight_x0020_Arrow_x0020_Connector_x0020_20" o:gfxdata="UEsDBBQABgAIAAAAIQC75UiUBQEAAB4CAAATAAAAW0NvbnRlbnRfVHlwZXNdLnhtbKSRvU7DMBSF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" o:spid="_x0000_s1039" strokecolor="#ed7d31 [3205]" strokeweight="1pt" style="flip: x; height: 1.5pt; margin-left: 412.5pt; margin-top: 39pt; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 24pt; z-index: 251693056;" type="#_x0000_t32">
<v:stroke endarrow="block" joinstyle="miter"><span style="font-family: arial;">
</span></v:stroke></v:shape><v:shape alt="A picture containing indoor, sitting, small, sink
Description automatically generated" id="Picture_x0020_7" o:spid="_x0000_s1038" style="height: 4in; margin-left: 110.8pt; margin-top: 0px; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 162pt; z-index: -251637760;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="A picture containing indoor, sitting, small, sink
Description automatically generated" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image009.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcbsda1nhrBT8zz13wRy7odcZvFOFhdY-3ElBprPX6YZKVCD9JBXmgRTDPW6dD1uECpfS-LXdklMjH9RwN8TTHPSptW2P9ezBloi9kjhMh6t4PnaZgKOniJCQkBuHV5baLr22xlOM7TML/s511/Painted+organization.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="446" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcbsda1nhrBT8zz13wRy7odcZvFOFhdY-3ElBprPX6YZKVCD9JBXmgRTDPW6dD1uECpfS-LXdklMjH9RwN8TTHPSptW2P9ezBloi9kjhMh6t4PnaZgKOniJCQkBuHV5baLr22xlOM7TML/w349-h400/Painted+organization.jpg" width="349" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><br /><span>Legal-size paper
organizer</span></u><span style="line-height: 107%;">-<br />I have a lot of small pieces of fabric that I use for applique and patchwork that I keep in a large, legal-size paper organizer with drawers that pull out. They’re sorted by color (each drawer has a different color) and occasionally by type (ex. Large Prints, Small Prints, Leather, Denim...). The scraps are folded and placed on end so you can see the top edge of each of the scraps when you pull out the drawer.<br /></span><a href="https://www.nationalbusinessfurniture.com/legal-size-30-drawer-storage-cabinet-33369"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></a><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.nationalbusinessfurniture.com/legal-size-30-drawer-storage-cabinet-33369" target="_blank"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>https://www.nationalbusinessfurniture.com/legal-size-30-drawer-storage-cabinet-33369</a></span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlT9Pc8eH41I5Belg-eM7yCpXTV7HfSKIVYwsI8lrf2BLPK_koTCxzujAXnbw1XJO1J-8scl0Eylz4o_CrWq7yTQJYi9zCQwNtEq05NlPMzAEvcVkz1eGRWM8cqbIqe-k5smkcrM2q7aB/s1920/scrap+organizer.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMlT9Pc8eH41I5Belg-eM7yCpXTV7HfSKIVYwsI8lrf2BLPK_koTCxzujAXnbw1XJO1J-8scl0Eylz4o_CrWq7yTQJYi9zCQwNtEq05NlPMzAEvcVkz1eGRWM8cqbIqe-k5smkcrM2q7aB/s320/scrap+organizer.jpg" width="320" /><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Fabric/Trim
Organizer</span></u><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">- </span></b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Roll upholstery fabric and
ribbons/trim on the rolls that upholstery fabric comes and stand them in a
trash container like flowers in a vase. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FiB0NBjaH-RINBQi_gzZwtgv4jrUI1kSL4CcdmD24DxF8NmCVDybx_zOg-F6wyQXyh72U1ZKQS8PvlK1kUh9GgpLedK1ph6iGTQF1JkkCoEjdWD7RWtDqidmKhLCqPtDMILPp51jFBwr/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="368" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FiB0NBjaH-RINBQi_gzZwtgv4jrUI1kSL4CcdmD24DxF8NmCVDybx_zOg-F6wyQXyh72U1ZKQS8PvlK1kUh9GgpLedK1ph6iGTQF1JkkCoEjdWD7RWtDqidmKhLCqPtDMILPp51jFBwr/" width="213" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><u style="font-size: 13pt;">DIY Ribbon Holder</u><span style="font-size: 13pt;">- I drilled holes in a 2x4 and glued in dowels. I stack ribbon spools sorted by color and style (I have a lot of rick rack!).</span><br /><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><a href="http://ellenscreativepassage.blogspot.com/2011/08/ribbon-organizer-tutorial.html" target="_blank">http://ellenscreativepassage.blogspot.com/2011/08/ribbon-organizer-tutorial.html </a></span></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Projects </span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">- to keep projects together, you can label a
storage Ziploc bag or paper/reusable bag. These can be stacked/stored in a milk
crate or on a shelf.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape alt="12 Pockets A4 Letter Size Paper Organizer File Folder Expanding ..." id="Picture_x0020_22" o:spid="_x0000_s1034" style="height: 128.95pt; margin-left: 358.25pt; margin-top: 79.05pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 128.95pt; z-index: -251598848;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="12 Pockets A4 Letter Size Paper Organizer File Folder Expanding .." src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image010.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Pattern Organizers</span></b><b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
</span></b><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Filing Cabinet.</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> I took all my patterns out of their
envelopes and put them in manilla folders labeled and organized by pattern
company (where applicable), pattern number, and size. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><u>Milk Crate</u>. I have a milk crate I use
to hold the folders of frequently used patterns. (I keep this in an easily accessible spot, so I also keep my rulers and other pattern drafting here). <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRHvc4C9yxt73Wc7cAhMcL8qMkBayA016DpTYv8VyoL41kBdPwyNCeS3El-TBTwcXk2vTwTalBzs2yuViXpHQ5tI20xsrsmPuAZGHRTwp5-lq9v6Y7koOPZa3w3QANELgXUtiH-s4F_kF/s125/Expanding+file.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRHvc4C9yxt73Wc7cAhMcL8qMkBayA016DpTYv8VyoL41kBdPwyNCeS3El-TBTwcXk2vTwTalBzs2yuViXpHQ5tI20xsrsmPuAZGHRTwp5-lq9v6Y7koOPZa3w3QANELgXUtiH-s4F_kF/s16000/Expanding+file.jpg" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u>Expanding
File Organizer</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">. I then
open out the envelopes flat and put them in an expanding, accordion file
organizer divided into categories (Tops, Bottoms, Business, Casual,
Bridal/Evening, Costumes, Children, Men…) so I didn’t have to dig through all
my patterns to find what I needed (and the envelope usually has material
requirements). For patterns without an envelope, I use a piece of paper with a
sketch or photo.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Notions Organization</span></b><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape alt="An open refrigerator
Description automatically generated" id="Picture_x0020_12" o:spid="_x0000_s1033" style="height: 181.2pt; margin-left: 50.7pt; margin-top: 1.05pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 101.9pt; z-index: -251610112;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="An open refrigerator
Description automatically generated" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image011.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><v:shape alt="Small Parts Storage Cabinet Drawer Bin Organizer-Box 44 Drawers ..." id="Picture_x0020_4" o:spid="_x0000_s1032" style="height: 80.95pt; margin-left: 264.15pt; margin-top: 0.75pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 96pt; z-index: -251608064;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="Small Parts Storage Cabinet Drawer Bin Organizer-Box 44 Drawers .." src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image012.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrbHbxIkzkBIooRfowX4DKrhgwtnIrn9EN0jFctxLhlZM1NnTyyaJAwFkG0gfevGKzB3YUewy_1wKfl1yOcbBhaqGvU4da7M5BIJ_jOpoUXYLSg0knajVQoh192IvpbH4FD7TnOlzUGlp/s216/hardware+organizer.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="216" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrbHbxIkzkBIooRfowX4DKrhgwtnIrn9EN0jFctxLhlZM1NnTyyaJAwFkG0gfevGKzB3YUewy_1wKfl1yOcbBhaqGvU4da7M5BIJ_jOpoUXYLSg0knajVQoh192IvpbH4FD7TnOlzUGlp/w200-h169/hardware+organizer.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><u>Button Organizer</u><b>.</b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> I keep my buttons and similar
notions organized by color in a box normally used for organizing screws and
such. I painted mine white to match the room. <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcmsSuuxHdSaw4NpruqWt-vXSbed4LIlf7qeTFKUBM8WFXuE-d2dCrL0-kmWQmcWpKx0a6GdECdBrx-qfs7rtc8Bb1Esgg-jBjsKwCYvxPjobXaokeaa7fqqzz6FPqBWcvV8bEzhGJKuH/s2048/button+organizer.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggcmsSuuxHdSaw4NpruqWt-vXSbed4LIlf7qeTFKUBM8WFXuE-d2dCrL0-kmWQmcWpKx0a6GdECdBrx-qfs7rtc8Bb1Esgg-jBjsKwCYvxPjobXaokeaa7fqqzz6FPqBWcvV8bEzhGJKuH/s320/button+organizer.jpg" /></span></a></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Dresser</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">. I have a
lovely small vintage set of drawers that I've painted and labeled with the
contents (fastenings, elastic, trim, misc...). Don’t use deep/large drawers,
things will get lost!<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_28" o:spid="_x0000_s1031" style="height: 88.1pt; margin-left: 103.4pt; margin-top: 0.8pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 154.6pt; z-index: -251606016;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image013.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6aM_MnUx0t8fqU79YSEhUrI8wVjg8v1kV5ZWJ8L45lR6b_k6H79SP4TOs6jjAPqyEt6C0iZXLRqqkltB7l4M2s9mk0RjiDl4d78Gs-85IoCPpfEVP4y6-7i2PBwpNmaMXlyk7jyZl4lHc/s2013/spice+rack.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="2013" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6aM_MnUx0t8fqU79YSEhUrI8wVjg8v1kV5ZWJ8L45lR6b_k6H79SP4TOs6jjAPqyEt6C0iZXLRqqkltB7l4M2s9mk0RjiDl4d78Gs-85IoCPpfEVP4y6-7i2PBwpNmaMXlyk7jyZl4lHc/w200-h114/spice+rack.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u>Thread Organizer</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> - tiered, adjustable spice organizer
– organized by color.</span> <span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><b></b></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><b>I love Dollar Store stuff for inexpensive organizers.</b></span></blockquote><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;">Silverware organizer</span></u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"> kept near my sewing machine (I put it in the pullout keyboard drawer under my desk) allows me to keep things nearby and in one place things like seam rippers, 6” rulers, elastic, thimble, binders, and clips.</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu2Vu7b_DTjkbP2cRlCQ68jr0UI469bkXVaoC48ZiJpaZ6R8fpSFgJMfi7aeL4O61_JyavufxR5snmTh2DJy1UufL3rnxiZF21z6MdqtWtaPwKjjObf4G-MGcOYnm8YnxmzK071ZzOY7V/s425/Fishing+Tackle+box.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="425" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXu2Vu7b_DTjkbP2cRlCQ68jr0UI469bkXVaoC48ZiJpaZ6R8fpSFgJMfi7aeL4O61_JyavufxR5snmTh2DJy1UufL3rnxiZF21z6MdqtWtaPwKjjObf4G-MGcOYnm8YnxmzK071ZzOY7V/w200-h193/Fishing+Tackle+box.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></u></div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><br />Fishing tackle box</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;">. For notions/projects/tasks with small pieces. Ex. wedding-specific stuff (small hook and eyes, white fabric button, safety pins, random bits of lace and lace appliques, cording, labels..).</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKVJIXfWmXnLZD9gLjAkhk0QC3ugVDy4jFOOLHGSp-23c8E0dfs7neVmyD2Ay0cVO66pTTEkHOPwj7aOKZxtz0BWUbO7fM1XAl82QEI4qFWHRtDANaxYhbjpjPsspAT6Up3nsnDIiT8cz/s733/scissors+hook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="733" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKVJIXfWmXnLZD9gLjAkhk0QC3ugVDy4jFOOLHGSp-23c8E0dfs7neVmyD2Ay0cVO66pTTEkHOPwj7aOKZxtz0BWUbO7fM1XAl82QEI4qFWHRtDANaxYhbjpjPsspAT6Up3nsnDIiT8cz/w200-h143/scissors+hook.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><u>Sewing machine hooks</u>. Attach Command Strip hooks to your sewing machine and never lose your scissors again.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLhcDXA8PeLcaD0y0MQW5a-ZEM1BkNg7ehVRmNbUBbAs6d_QlHVzrcPEBd2Nep8qflZUUr8CSUDs_c-TbrQDIFHKeVPIPu20WYvRkAHKAGq5NnFgH1DXwnJV4fdjcY7psY1YyayCnOPsa/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="129" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXLhcDXA8PeLcaD0y0MQW5a-ZEM1BkNg7ehVRmNbUBbAs6d_QlHVzrcPEBd2Nep8qflZUUr8CSUDs_c-TbrQDIFHKeVPIPu20WYvRkAHKAGq5NnFgH1DXwnJV4fdjcY7psY1YyayCnOPsa/w134-h200/image.png" width="134" /></a></div><u>Sewing Machine Mat</u>. Keep your notions at hand and even a thread catcher. DIY Sewing Machine Mat Pattern- https://www.polkadotchair.com/diy-roll-up-sewing-machine-mat/ </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt;">at/ </span></div></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;">
<br /><br /></span><br /></span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> <br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 107%;">Project-specific
organizers</span></b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><u style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Gallon storage zip
lock bags</span></u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 18.5467px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAk3SBAvwXJeX4Y3ZlJLqnQnyU3MPPti5OuPfUy9oIEvfyZypw5gctWMV2-c9wR48bR8vXarQnXAXoSXFk5aKTcM81r7J1CbcDmMMitRHASMrdBQYmBwsoF8eYkVtmccPI7ZG_igstGSr-/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAk3SBAvwXJeX4Y3ZlJLqnQnyU3MPPti5OuPfUy9oIEvfyZypw5gctWMV2-c9wR48bR8vXarQnXAXoSXFk5aKTcM81r7J1CbcDmMMitRHASMrdBQYmBwsoF8eYkVtmccPI7ZG_igstGSr-/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a></span> to keep fabrics, trims, and all materials needed for an individual project. I store these in a milk crate (sometimes I keep the bags stacked on a shelf, but they're pretty slippery and tend to slither off the shelf so I rarely do this).</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruCK-98xfFLY8Pvqx7LUyU7Doi80hiInc7v1vkUtVpixvmEU1juBScC6EaNfLXCqu9yya89S-bWHZvjNncJVzkmc_hImnNF-vT451DlGy4-26TvKYg-XSh8yAQ6sFqp6Hv5PKK7h7Zi-N/s2048/plastic+bin.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1432" data-original-width="2048" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruCK-98xfFLY8Pvqx7LUyU7Doi80hiInc7v1vkUtVpixvmEU1juBScC6EaNfLXCqu9yya89S-bWHZvjNncJVzkmc_hImnNF-vT451DlGy4-26TvKYg-XSh8yAQ6sFqp6Hv5PKK7h7Zi-N/w200-h140/plastic+bin.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><br />Plastic bins
or boxes</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> to keep materials
needed for specific projects together in one place and portable. <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Misc. <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape alt="Honey-Can-Do White Steel Portable Clothes Rack (17 in. W x 68 in ..." id="Picture_x0020_30" o:spid="_x0000_s1028" style="height: 85.5pt; margin-left: 279.75pt; margin-top: 0.1pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 87.75pt; z-index: -251614208;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="Honey-Can-Do White Steel Portable Clothes Rack (17 in. W x 68 in .." src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image016.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP55eXRkhakqIajxGEN1RmEL4vmyupBML5TgHQJ2JBpXFbKTUB7at7TYwfFiFz7LoWb-m2GFV6K-p63gW1BvHKccVQLBQWyUYy0gsWhcvOYy4b9pOxoO6QqdvsKAZFfvpW9BdeuT-swb_/s1022/door+hooks.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1022" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP55eXRkhakqIajxGEN1RmEL4vmyupBML5TgHQJ2JBpXFbKTUB7at7TYwfFiFz7LoWb-m2GFV6K-p63gW1BvHKccVQLBQWyUYy0gsWhcvOYy4b9pOxoO6QqdvsKAZFfvpW9BdeuT-swb_/w200-h200/door+hooks.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u>Over the door hook</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> that holds multiple items.</span> <span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_26" o:spid="_x0000_s1027" style="height: 115.5pt; margin-left: 64.3pt; margin-top: 0.55pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: right; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 115.5pt; z-index: -251597824;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image017.jpg"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><u><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></u></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX099dfwOXdokfNpuriY582aSbvJeXTYI7PQNQ2KMm3HFMWUy4zmE0Scn0WbMs6pccRvnoscQxHcwdHkEgrrEKNbhBOXVAAacig2s52Zp4hyfxOtQZeHjr0BkP_gqdxSEUT9Zn9X8RbJAg/s1200/Clothing+rack.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="737" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX099dfwOXdokfNpuriY582aSbvJeXTYI7PQNQ2KMm3HFMWUy4zmE0Scn0WbMs6pccRvnoscQxHcwdHkEgrrEKNbhBOXVAAacig2s52Zp4hyfxOtQZeHjr0BkP_gqdxSEUT9Zn9X8RbJAg/w123-h200/Clothing+rack.jpg" width="123" /></span></a></u></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><u><br />Clothes rack</u><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> –They come with wheels! I put the base of mine on bed risers to make
it tall enough to accommodate the longer costumes. </span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 17.3333px;"><br /></span><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6ghOHVT-Xv0PvaKH_QEPsQjHMC_apvfH-W-xxyYhV7IMlD5txR5HuwSYGR9tQRvmVPuVgY5YfAR9j7QBLDWJxMmDMcvzN9YkUv9ncEb3lc1xxf0wYu-VW_exlhslg3bUQLma8-2m1W0w/s608/cutting+table.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="606" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE6ghOHVT-Xv0PvaKH_QEPsQjHMC_apvfH-W-xxyYhV7IMlD5txR5HuwSYGR9tQRvmVPuVgY5YfAR9j7QBLDWJxMmDMcvzN9YkUv9ncEb3lc1xxf0wYu-VW_exlhslg3bUQLma8-2m1W0w/s320/cutting+table.jpg" /></a></div><br />Cutting
Table –</b><br />
<span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">I <b><i>love</i></b> my cutting
table. The sides fold up and down, it’s on wheels, and it even has storage
underneath. This one even has an adjustable height (mine doesn’t).</span> <a href="https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/adjustable-home-hobby-table-sullivans.aspx">https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/adjustable-home-hobby-table-sullivans.aspx</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQ0ct6B0bxJoiCUzOhiSr49r1BHsVToPHPv_faIfwqp0zJAJgAfdltMghKDX7y3Pey9dFeUErPUpIFSVoZC0UgDYPZfjNyH4f_6uuVdVwVHX8HmA3RWv43tioEXVTTnZNY9j5rPENqS2a/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="159" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQ0ct6B0bxJoiCUzOhiSr49r1BHsVToPHPv_faIfwqp0zJAJgAfdltMghKDX7y3Pey9dFeUErPUpIFSVoZC0UgDYPZfjNyH4f_6uuVdVwVHX8HmA3RWv43tioEXVTTnZNY9j5rPENqS2a/" width="240" /></a></div><br />Adjustable Dress Form</b> - </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div>You probably don't have to have an adjustable dress form, but I like mine. </div><div><br /></div><div>I purchased (I think I spent less than $75 including shipping) a size small <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007PBHZK0" target="_blank">adjustable dress form</a> (most of the bridal gowns I alter are for tiny young women), and then I pad up to what I need. Most dress forms only go up to a B cup (I'm a double H with a 32" rib cage). So for myself, I adjust the ribs of the mannequin to be my size and throw one of my bras on it. (Make sure you're wearing the right size bra! {<b><i><a href="https://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2017/11/wearing-right-size-bra.html" target="_blank">Are You Wearing The Right Size Bra?}</a><br />{When I was in college I left my dress form "naked" except for a bra. My roommate asked me to throw clothes on it because it was upsetting her boyfriend! lol}</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Custom Dress Form Cover</b></div><div>I found a great measurement format called <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/class/fast-track-fitting/#" target="_blank">Fast-Track Fitting by Joi Mahon</a> It offers a very detailed measuring system. I'll be honest, making the customized pattern is a lot of work, but when you're done you have a "master" pattern that fits perfectly and you'll know how and where to use those adjustments on any patterns you use in the future. {<a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2020/12/full-bust-adjustment.html" style="background-color: white; color: #0085e4; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Full Bust Adjustment (FBA)<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>and Other Pattern Alterations</i></b></a>}</div><div><br /></div><div>I used the muslin made using this system as a cover for my mannequin. I added padding where it needed filling out and when I was done it was much more accurate than my adjustable mannequin. This gave me a better form to drape on and cut down on the number of fittings needed. I made one for each of the people I sewed for often or who needed a custom, fitted dress. </div></div></span><span style="font-family: arial;">
<o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_24" o:spid="_x0000_s1026" style="height: 183.45pt; margin-left: 307.5pt; margin-top: 16.05pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 160.2pt; z-index: -251600896;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/MARYBR~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image018.png"><span style="font-family: arial;">
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" type="tight">
</w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA96H_I63rOczEWWtl4hW3wQ67GjXVwecebNxGusD1mLuxFf24emF_x70AtebDTkm50EH-ypjLiva5mPU9sVmGNaZANl4Ejb7uqTdCM8ZmYuv2B0-kGj9OuM34jb6MVQPCnXegMNtPvaA2/s2048/hanging+chain.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1789" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA96H_I63rOczEWWtl4hW3wQ67GjXVwecebNxGusD1mLuxFf24emF_x70AtebDTkm50EH-ypjLiva5mPU9sVmGNaZANl4Ejb7uqTdCM8ZmYuv2B0-kGj9OuM34jb6MVQPCnXegMNtPvaA2/s320/hanging+chain.jpg" /></span></a></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br />Hanging Chain</b><span style="font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;"> – My favorite! A chain on a bike
hook that hangs from the ceiling. It can hold multiple items. I love it for the longer/heavier
costumes and dresses. <o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">Dresses/costumes
can be moved to different heights by hooking the item’s hanger onto different
parts of the chain. This allows me to leave
the item on the hanger and raise and lower the costume so that I can work on different
parts of the item at a comfortable height.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 107%;">(Ex. The bodice can hang right in front of me while I do hand stitching rather than
draped over my lap or the table. No boiling because I have multiple layers of a dress on my legs. No dress slithering to the floor when I’m not looking. No
getting an applique twisted because I can’t tell that it’s no longer where I
put it. No (ok, rarely) sewing the dress to my pants or the front to the back.)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">The weight of
a wedding dress can be supported by the chain and kept off the floor too while
the dress is being hemmed. For bridal gowns, I keep the dress storage bag on
the hangar so things like a long train can remain safely in the bottom of the
bag while I work on the bodice or part of the hem.</span> </span></p></div></div></div></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-46484852145803961872020-12-02T00:21:00.016-08:002023-02-27T10:21:16.114-08:00Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) and Other Pattern Adjustments<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmlEx7uLW3bpYhdA2ea0LjF_lK2wOA0kVEFzwi9q12jVO3pT5rKGU90kpehEhp66Z93zMuAs0XSej_IH863JmKHJlEPa3ARLermw_4qZnT0jN1GmWFHO5ESZt7xxuurSs7QgW9lnSD3w6/s2508/Contest+plaid+closeup.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2508" data-original-width="1254" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmlEx7uLW3bpYhdA2ea0LjF_lK2wOA0kVEFzwi9q12jVO3pT5rKGU90kpehEhp66Z93zMuAs0XSej_IH863JmKHJlEPa3ARLermw_4qZnT0jN1GmWFHO5ESZt7xxuurSs7QgW9lnSD3w6/s320/Contest+plaid+closeup.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p>Whether sewing for ourselves or others, we all struggle with making pattern adjustments to handle fitting challenges. I use a combination of several techniques when adjusting a pattern, especially for a fitted garment. {<b><i><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6601816375325524836/138580394239788920" target="_blank">Are You Wearing The Right-Sized Bra?</a></i></b>, <b><i><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/getting-to-perfect-dress.html" target="_blank">Getting To The Perfect Dress</a>}</i></b></p><p><b><i>I love this article about figuring out what proportions look best on your body, especially because it focuses on full figures. <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20160201054334/http:/lostinaspotlessmind.com/2012/11/defining-style-how-to-dress-for-your-shape#.Uwkos16YXTA" target="_blank">DEFINING STYLE: HOW TO DRESS FOR YOUR SHAPE</a>.</i></b></p><p>I feel a good place to start is with <b><a href="https://nancyzieman.com/blog/stitch-it-sisters/new-stitch-it-sisters-tunic-pattern-fitting-the-nancy-zieman-way-program-113/" target="_blank">Nancy Zieman</a>. </b>Her books and videos make adjusting patterns simple to understand and do. </p><h1 class="title style-scope ytd-video-primary-info-renderer" style="background: rgb(249, 249, 249); border: 0px; color: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-color, var(--yt-spec-text-primary)); font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-font-size, var(--yt-navbar-title-font-size, inherit)); line-height: var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem); margin: 0px; max-height: calc(2 * var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem)); overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; text-shadow: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-text-shadow, none); transform: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-transform, none);"><yt-formatted-string class="style-scope ytd-video-primary-info-renderer" force-default-style="" style="word-break: break-word;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJnjA9Lj654&ab_channel=PFAFFTalk" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">Sewing With Nancy - Fitting Finesse</span></a></yt-formatted-string></h1><div>Yes, this series was made in 1994 so feel free to laugh at the fashion but the techniques never go out of style!</div><div><br /></div><center><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mJnjA9Lj654" width="560"></iframe></center><div><br /></div><div><b>It's All About The Shoulders</b></div><div>One key point in Nancy's videos/books is that the <u>shoulders are the most important area to fit</u> because everything else is easily adjustable.</div><div><br /></div><div><blockquote>If we cut a pattern based on our bust measurement and that measurement is different than the average B cup then the shoulders will not fit. I've bought tops that were an XL to accommodate my bust only to have the top drown me everywhere else because I have a small frame. </blockquote></div><div><br /></div><div>Nancy's method uses a unique chart that helps you choose a pattern based on your shoulder width and then helps you make any adjustments needed everywhere else (bust, waist, hips, back...). Nancy then teaches easy-to-understand techniques on how to do that. Her pivot technique is great.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TH-4sLd2XUUy-psmizG6Zs6OBSfBvROXfipu1B602tTQkGMbxoIJkVMTn8wI9XIypczxTDI8zRQuaIUIsJ7CNmWgEorDNaXMbBw-zpwCfPiM9xoQY3FDaajJERvejurMNwHrSRsPIQG4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="1440" height="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6TH-4sLd2XUUy-psmizG6Zs6OBSfBvROXfipu1B602tTQkGMbxoIJkVMTn8wI9XIypczxTDI8zRQuaIUIsJ7CNmWgEorDNaXMbBw-zpwCfPiM9xoQY3FDaajJERvejurMNwHrSRsPIQG4/" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Full Bust Adjustment (FBA)</span></b><br />Unless I'm missing something (and I'll admit I haven't looked at it in depth in years and mostly skimmed it for this post), Nancy's technique adds or subtracts size adjustments to all of the seams equally. In my opinion, this does not make sense. If you're adjusting for a larger/smaller bust, the changes should be made in the bust area! Adding or subtracting these adjustments from all the seams including the back ones makes no sense. The same idea applies to people with a larger belly and/or backside.</div><div><br /></div><div>For example. The bust measurement for a pattern size 14 is 36". If your bust measurement is 40" then most of the 4" difference should be added to the front, right?! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Custom Fit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduVpiT2lA4r19Ccp7xUVMJ51qRsrS8xzSJdh1NLB477tcnw3SQ-lstyO26aso-SSVzbp_p0sQFtUtCIHdoI1dDn-RuLSE9zN_E1JUbet6tV8vrV0ZJti61HcUcbGjEfXmLixzJfPwso_P/s792/12_11+M+custom+navy+stand.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="398" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduVpiT2lA4r19Ccp7xUVMJ51qRsrS8xzSJdh1NLB477tcnw3SQ-lstyO26aso-SSVzbp_p0sQFtUtCIHdoI1dDn-RuLSE9zN_E1JUbet6tV8vrV0ZJti61HcUcbGjEfXmLixzJfPwso_P/s320/12_11+M+custom+navy+stand.jpg" /></a></div><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The pattern for this dress was customized using the base</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> pattern created through the Fast-Track Fitting Technique. </span></div><div><br /></div><div>For more fitted clothing, you'll need detailed measurements and adjustments. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><a href="https://www.craftsy.com/class/fast-track-fitting-in-the-details/439/" target="_blank">Fast-Track Fitting by Joi Mahon</a></b></div><div>I found a great measurement format through Craftsy. Called <b><a href="https://www.craftsy.com/class/fast-track-fitting-in-the-details/439/" target="_blank">Fast-Track Fitting by Joi Mahon</a> </b>It offers a <i>very </i>detailed measuring system. I'll be honest, making the customized pattern is a lot of work, but when you're done you have a base pattern that fits perfectly and you'll know how and where to use those adjustments on any patterns you use in the future. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>Note: I used the muslin made using this system as a cover for my mannequin. I added padding where it needed filling out and when I was done it was much more accurate than my adjustable mannequin. This gave me a better form to drape on and cut down on the number of fittings needed. I made one for each of the people I sewed for often. </i><br /><br /><a href="http://curvysewingcollective.com/the-beginners-guide-full-bust-adjustment/" target="_blank">The Beginners Guide: Full Bust Adjustment </a>by curvysewingcollective.com</b></div><div>Most Big 4 patterns are drafted using a B-cup bodice and it’s rare that Indies are drafted larger than C-cups. If your bra size falls outside this range, then an FBA is for you! Even if your measurements are exactly identical to those on the pattern envelope, chances are weird fitting issues will crop up with a large cup size. It’s astounding the number of these issues a good FBA can fix, from floppy shoulders to gaping button bands and armscyes. </div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><a href="https://blog.cashmerette.com/2020/10/how-to-do-a-knit-fba.html" target="_blank">FBA with Knits</a></b></div><div></div><blockquote><div>How to do an FBA on a dartless knit bodice. See this awesome tutorial at <a href="https://blog.cashmerette.com/2020/10/how-to-do-a-knit-fba.html">https://blog.cashmerette.com/2020/10/how-to-do-a-knit-fba.html</a> <br /><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Create a muslin (sample garment) using fabric the same weight and stretch of the knit you plan to use for your garment. </li><li>Put the muslin on and measure how much the muslin's hem rides up in front. This will be your Bust Adjustment amount.</li><li>Draw a horizontal line across the front pattern piece across the bust apex.</li><li>Cut along the horizontal line and separate the pattern pieces by the Bust Adjustment amount. keep the pattern lined up with the front edge of the pattern.</li><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX23bMBjZ8pxDhHMOczbxhmNUGqRjSPktRz8v5IBiCYpWv8yF23C5baPzBDuAtKQE5f_O0G4W-iEcL5PFa_-KQuBuXhzyJ_mcqfvxrV0bCGmBt7xmAQoRQXjCjhhnN32UNl0RPv4WVooS/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX23bMBjZ8pxDhHMOczbxhmNUGqRjSPktRz8v5IBiCYpWv8yF23C5baPzBDuAtKQE5f_O0G4W-iEcL5PFa_-KQuBuXhzyJ_mcqfvxrV0bCGmBt7xmAQoRQXjCjhhnN32UNl0RPv4WVooS/" width="240" /></a></div>At the side seam, add a slight curve—essentially, a "boob bubble." This helps create additional width for the bust. This bit is more of an estimate, but we recommend adding about 1/2″ to 3/4″. Trace a new pattern piece.</li><li>Notch the fabric at the top and bottom of the Bust Adjustment gap.</li></ol></div><div><u>Sewing Instructions</u></div><div>1. Pin the Front piece to the Back piece starting at the hem and going up to the bottom notch.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Pin from the armhole to the top notch.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Stitch the Front to the Back starting at the hem and going to the bottom notch. When you get to the bottom notch, gently stretch the back piece until it lines up with the front piece, and continue to sew. When you get to the top notch, stop stretching and sew the rest of the seam as you would normally.</div></blockquote><p><b>FBA with Bras/Corsets/Fitted tops</b> </p><p>One thing I found super helpful was to make/draft a pattern from a bra that fits me {<b><i><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6601816375325524836/138580394239788920" target="_blank">Are You Wearing The Right-Sized Bra?</a>}</i></b>. I often use the underwires from my old bras that are worn out or from cheap bras that have the right size cups even though the rest of the bra is too big for me Ex. I wear a 34H, which is impossible to find cheap, but I can use the underwire from a <b>"sister-size"</b> bra - 34H, 36G, 38F(aka38DDD), 40DD, 42D, 44C... one of those sizes should be much more common and therefore I can find it cheaper. You can also order underwires in all different shapes and sizes online.</p><p>To make my own corsets, I've adapted patterns using the techniques listed above ^. <br />{<b><a href="https://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/corset-lingerie-contest-vogue-9273.html" target="_blank">Corsets - Vogue 9273</a>, <a href="https://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2017/10/wonder-woman-costume.html" target="_blank">Wonder Woman Costume</a>} </b>I've also learned a lot from the free tutorials at the <a href="https://classes.corsetacademy.net/courses/beginner-plan" target="_blank"><b>Corset Academy</b></a> (I've never purchased any courses because as far as I can tell, they wouldn't be very useful for someone with serious curves but the sewing techniques are great. They have a lot of free stuff on their <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIlFdWkxMQG_BUjqSPTdgrg" target="_blank"><b>YouTube channel</b> </a>as well. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzOBktcyEb32mHOG8PNZiXX1ocrBr5-GQsdVvPWS7eze6e46tt6ac8y7FtjvSY6G87wJHfuLLWHGukXMicaHf8Mx5-C5G4gyUoZKV-izNpjwMkq7F40m9aF44UOUJ8GBo6pw9RwgsMNw7/s2033/ivory+bustier.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2033" data-original-width="1697" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitzOBktcyEb32mHOG8PNZiXX1ocrBr5-GQsdVvPWS7eze6e46tt6ac8y7FtjvSY6G87wJHfuLLWHGukXMicaHf8Mx5-C5G4gyUoZKV-izNpjwMkq7F40m9aF44UOUJ8GBo6pw9RwgsMNw7/w267-h320/ivory+bustier.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br /><p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>More good articles about FBAs</b></h2><div><a href="http://curvysewingcollective.com/the-beginners-guide-full-bust-adjustment/" target="_blank">Curvy Sewing Collective - The Beginners Guide to Full Bust Adjustment</a></div><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Good articles about making large FBAs</h2><div><a href="https://curvysewingcollective.com/large-fba-issues-dealing-with-the-big-honkin-dart/" target="_blank">Curvy Sewing Collective - Large FBA Issues - Dealing With The Big Honkin' Dart</a></div><div><a href="https://sewbusty.com/category/full-bust-adjustment-guide/" target="_blank">Sew Busty - Giant Full Bust Adjustments on a Woven Bodice</a></div><div><a href="https://sewbusty.com/2022/05/10/full-bust-adjustment-guide-giant-fba-on-a-dartless-knit-bodice-aka-adding-a-dart-when-you-need-one/" target="_blank">Sew Busty - Giant Full Bust Adjustment on a Knit Bodice - AKA Adding A Dart When You Need One</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>*****************</b></div><h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/6601816375325524836/8825553710128850223" target="_blank">Pant Pattern Adjustment (Some Notes)</a></b></span></h1><div><br /></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-61584561178132445982018-05-23T13:53:00.002-07:002022-01-13T14:25:07.433-08:00DIY Staining Kitchen Cabinets<h2 style="text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b>Staining Kitchen Cabinets</b></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5Qyr9r1oFsa6e6ZnRn0qds0gqVXsqh1PHPYYSEdlF24cP3o0x6W8oCQ11V6c6bZqKcwhKNgXVCZD2UqDzoKYqcQu3CQ7G1akTPH4QDk8VTfwaTx3gse3nS5VneIiIE8eiWqJMIA7vC7N/s1600/Kitchen+Before+and+Sold.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5Qyr9r1oFsa6e6ZnRn0qds0gqVXsqh1PHPYYSEdlF24cP3o0x6W8oCQ11V6c6bZqKcwhKNgXVCZD2UqDzoKYqcQu3CQ7G1akTPH4QDk8VTfwaTx3gse3nS5VneIiIE8eiWqJMIA7vC7N/s400/Kitchen+Before+and+Sold.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">This tutorial is how I DIY stained all the dated golden oak cabinets in my entire house (and later my new house) without spending hours stripping the wood first with harsh chemicals and without adding layer after layer of stain to get them this dark walnut.</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I didn't want to just paint the kitchen cabinets as the realtor suggested, and we couldn't afford to make a lot of expensive updates (hence keeping the dated backsplash and baby blue Formica countertops!). Gel staining the cabinets (<i>and a few other changes - mostly painting</i>) allowed us to add $25K to the sale price of our house for less than $200! </span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I found this great DIY tutorial for staining a bathroom vanity a dark color without stripping the stain first.</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="http://www.pneumaticaddict.com/2014/06/darken-cabinets-without-stripping.html%C2%A0" target="_blank">http://www.pneumaticaddict.com/2014/06/darken-cabinets-without-stripping.html </a></span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">I've included her instructions here and added <span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">my own comments and changes in red </span>and<b> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">my updated comments in green (after I completed a few more projects and learned a few tricks!)</span></b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">.</span><span style="color: #a64d79;"> </span></span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT4dPDzUvYE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT4dPDzUvYE</a> Another good tutorial if you prefer video.</span><br />
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<b><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">SUPPLIES:</span></b><br />
<br />
</span><ul>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"> <b><u>Varathane gel stain (by Rustoleum) in the color Dark Walnut</u></b><br /><b><i><span style="color: red;"> I had to special order this because my local hardware store only had it available online. I needed ~4 quarts to do the whole kitchen (about 50 cabinets and drawers - my smaller kitchen required less than 2 quarts).</span></i></b> </span></li>
</ul>
<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierbHK7U9zKXK2CjX2vUsUAqRSPVpusUfBYbwqEwAZsxAoYB00hMKrIDhfCblYarlWZrN3IqHVPIudY-FDHLKFI5Kh70LB3amM-5NuRk01hs7ekyLRKd5eViR0d89XvhchETvc4OPNMsCP/s1600/felt+pads.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEierbHK7U9zKXK2CjX2vUsUAqRSPVpusUfBYbwqEwAZsxAoYB00hMKrIDhfCblYarlWZrN3IqHVPIudY-FDHLKFI5Kh70LB3amM-5NuRk01hs7ekyLRKd5eViR0d89XvhchETvc4OPNMsCP/s200/felt+pads.jpg" width="200" /></span></a>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><s><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"><b>Deft Satin Clear Wood Finish – spray</b></span></s></span><br /> <b><i><span style="color: red;">This would take way too many cans for my project, so I used:</span></i></b></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Minwax satin finish polyurethane (poly} – 1 gallon</u></b> <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>2-4 stir sticks<span style="color: red;"> for stirring the gel stain and poly </span></u></b>– <span style="color: red;"><b><i>these are usually free in the paint department.<br /><br /></i></b></span></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Felt pads</u></b> <br /><b><i><span style="color: red;">I cut my own from 1” Heavy-Duty Felt Pads, Self-Adhesive – designed for keeping furniture from scratching floors that I got at the dollar store. You can get about 4 from each 1" pad.<br /><br /></span></i></b></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>150 grit sandpaper</u></b><br /><b><i><span style="color: red;">I used 100 grit which is much coarser cause I’m lazy like that.</span></i></b> <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>220 grit sandpaper</u></b><br /><span style="color: red;"><b><i> (I used a paper bag which is the cheap equivalent to 220 grit sandpaper</i></b></span><span style="color: red;"><b><i>) to lightly sand the poly.<br /></i></b></span> </span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Drawer pulls and handles</u></b> <b><i><span style="color: red;">(50!)</span></i></b> <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>TONS of blue painter’s tape</u></b> <br /><br /></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Black sharpie<br /><br /></u></b></span></li>
<li><b><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><u>~75 Sandwich bags</u><i> <span style="color: red;">(fold-down top not Ziploc)</span> <br /><br /></i></span></b></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>1” soft brush</u><span style="color: red;">*</span></b> <b style="color: red;"><i>(for stain)</i></b><span style="color: red;"> <br /><br /></span></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>2” soft brush</u><span style="color: red;">*</span></b> <b style="color: red;"><i>(for poly</i></b><b style="color: red;"><i>)</i></b><span style="color: red;"> <br /><b><i>**If you purchase cheap brushes then you can just throw them away when you’re done! No cleanup! But do get ones that are soft for the poly it will go on much smoother</i></b><br /><br /></span></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Rubber gloves</u></b> <br /><span style="color: red;"><b><i>I didn’t actually use the rubber gloves, because I don’t care about getting </i></b></span><b style="color: red;"><i>stain on my hands – it does wash off. Plus, when I let the stain dry on the rubber gloves it actually ate through the gloves overnight.<br /><br /></i></b></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Paint clothes</u><i style="color: red;">**</i></b><span style="color: red;"> -</span><br /><span style="color: red;"><b><i>I can’t tell you how many times I brushed up against a cabinet or dripped stain or poly on myself. Don't forget your footwear!</i></b><br /><br /></span></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Damp cloth or paper towels</u></b> <b style="color: red;"><i>to wipe up any drips that land where they shouldn’t.<br /> </i></b></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Plastic tarp</u></b> <br /><b style="color: red;"><i>(that dry cleaning thin plastic stuff won’t work, you need something a little heavier that won't stick to your cabinets).</i></b><i style="color: red;"> <br /></i></span></li>
</ul>
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><br /></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span>
<b><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">INSTRUCTIONS: </span></b><br />
<br />
</span><ol><br /><li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Purchase and drill holes for new hardware</span></b>. <br /></span>If you are attaching new hardware, make your life easier and build a jig from some scrap wood. It takes only a couple minutes to put together and ensures each hole is drilled in the exact same spot on every door. If you don't feel like putting a jig together, you can purchase a plastic guide.<br /><br />I recommend D. Lawless Hardware! If you are looking for cabinet hardware, you have got to check them out. Honestly, the best prices and best customer service!<br /><br /><span style="color: red;"><i><b>If like me, you’re adding or changing the hardware, I suggest adding the holes for the new hardware BEFORE you do all the stain work. That way, if you mess up you can patch it/ fix it fairly easily. I’d planned to add hardware, but at the thought of messing up my pretty newly stained cabinets and drawers (C&D), I changed my mind.<br /><br /></b></i></span></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Remove drawer faces and cabinet doors</span>.</b> I have seen people stain them in place, but don't do it. It takes like 5 minutes to unscrew the old doors. Let’s do it the right way people.<br /><br /><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red;"><i>Before removal, I used a piece of painter’s tape to number each cabinet and drawer face(C&D). I then took a picture of the labeled C&D so I knew where they went. When I sanded, I just moved the taped number to the side I was not working on. When I stained (Tetris style!) I put the number on the plastic sheet under the C&D.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhqDe0vNcNQTiXZ4Q9LkC2pI7n76G5IybTao5FkD6q5Lzx3B8wS13_fVkfHy-XgdHWe7oE_IfSPmZYA4ovyTnMiOELRU_zAUD-J_hFW6x3_mL9r9l85y-seHD0zDJoPY-obWdiyIKT0VGCJv0yOMRx8YQDNAMq6QzVg_dH0P8pz4YyKVz0H2PGHqnyxYA=s2545" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2340" data-original-width="2545" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhqDe0vNcNQTiXZ4Q9LkC2pI7n76G5IybTao5FkD6q5Lzx3B8wS13_fVkfHy-XgdHWe7oE_IfSPmZYA4ovyTnMiOELRU_zAUD-J_hFW6x3_mL9r9l85y-seHD0zDJoPY-obWdiyIKT0VGCJv0yOMRx8YQDNAMq6QzVg_dH0P8pz4YyKVz0H2PGHqnyxYA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">On my next project, I got smarter. I used a piece of painter's tape with the C &/or D's assigned # on it and stuck it unobtrusively inside each C&D's box/base and left it there until the C or D was done and put back in place.<br /><br />Using a sharpie, I labeled baggies with the C or D's #. When I took the hinges off a C door or removed a D, I put the hinges and screws in the baggie (so the hinges and screws didn’t get all mixed together).<br /><br /><b style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Instead of putting painters tape on the C or D that would then have to be removed everytime I needed to work on it, I did something different.</span></span></i></b><br /><br />Using my sharpie, I wrote the C's # inside one of the spaces where the hinges go. This spot isn't painted or stained, so it would stay visible (rather than having to move a piece of painter's tape multiple times). Also, the number wouldn't show when the hinges are on. (<b style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">When I stained the C door I had to try to keep the stain from covering the number (sometimes I forgot and it was NOT fun trying to find where it went in the kitchen. Next time, I will protect the number by putting a piece of painter's tape over it).</span></span></i></b><br /><br />For drawers, I wrote the D's # on the backside of the D’s face where it doesn't get stained. </span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red;"><b style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red;">If you’re going to add hardware (Step 9), I would probably drill the holes NOW before you remove the C&Ds. That way if anything goes wrong you can patch/fix it. I'd also put the hardware in the same bag as the hinges.<br /></span></i></b><br />TIP:<br />If like me, you’re going to be doing a large number of cabinets (50! C&D), think about doing them in sections and only remove the doors and drawer faces for that one section. I didn’t have enough workspace to do all the C&D at once, so I did as many as I could fit on my workspace (about ½). I just happened to do all the drawers and smaller cabinets in the first “batch.” Since I had removed ALL the doors and drawer faces, my kitchen looked awful for weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red;">I didn’t work on the cabinet boxes/ bases right away either so some of the finished doors and faces that were done had nowhere to go. If I had to do it all again, I would probably work on one group of cabinets and leave the other group alone until I was ready to do them. Also, I would do the cabinet boxes/bases first.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><b><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red;"><br /><br /></span></i></b></div>
</span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="text-indent: -24px;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sand lightly</span></span></b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -24px;">, especially if your cabinets are on the newer side</span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -24px;">. </span>It shouldn't take very long. You aren't looking to remove the finish, just give it some "tooth". I used 150 grit. Make sure to use a damp rag or tack cloth to wipe them clean after.<br /><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><br /><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;"><i>I used 100 grit and removed all the shiny poly as completely as I could.</i></span></span><b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_kN22vKXBWEXAxkgPEN_rwEqSXEHLnb9QA15mFsSC6_29yjbT0E_GlA0fGriEB81oUi_bp3hoZNAQdttbKIEj0kown-1pP12vpPO30sTOMFWWoCNXQ_QTldmNqpyNK3RW46V48i2U_h9/s1600/Photo09011125_2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_kN22vKXBWEXAxkgPEN_rwEqSXEHLnb9QA15mFsSC6_29yjbT0E_GlA0fGriEB81oUi_bp3hoZNAQdttbKIEj0kown-1pP12vpPO30sTOMFWWoCNXQ_QTldmNqpyNK3RW46V48i2U_h9/s200/Photo09011125_2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><br />After sanding, I covered a work space with a tarp and laid out the C&D “Tetris style.” (I used the pool table which was a comfortable height to work on and not putting it on the floor meant I didn’t have to worry about the pets walking on it. A dining room table or counter top might be ok but moving it if you wanted to use the space would be a pain).<br /></span><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">{</span></span></i></b><b><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Plywood or an old door on sawhorses works fine too. I used them out in the garage which helped a lot with fumes.}<br /></span></span></i></b><b><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span><span style="color: red;">I used heavy plastic tarps (the super thin plastic tarps that look like dry cleaning bags wrinkled up and stuck to my C&D – so use something heavier). I took the painter’s tapes labeled with the C&D number and taped it to the tarp underneath the C&D it belonged to.<br /></span></span></i></b><b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 107%;"><br />Make sure you set up in an area where you can open windows or something to vent the fumes!<br /><br /></span></i></b></span></li>
<li><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"> <div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stir Gel Stain well.</span></span></b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Once your wood is prepped, time to start staining. One mistake I see people do is to not stir their stain. Gel stain is super thick! Like pudding. Although the pigment in gel stain doesn't separate as quickly as traditional stain, it is still a good idea to stir it well before use.</span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
</span></li>
<li><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cover hand and glove in thick sock.</span></span></b><span class="apple-converted-space" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%;"> </span></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">As for application, I'll admit, I totally stole this idea. Once again, being a rebel, I tried applying the stain with a high quality brush but still had terrible brush strokes. I finally caved and went with the crowd and used a thick sock over a gloved hand. It really worked great to get a smooth, even application.<br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02KB8j7S-0BLY601X6prpC0U11ctYPZiz8nQ-7r_ThHMcJ00fDpi-pJC75oHrP4zfGBqKsRMbidsTk1PxASe0qvp5Lu30QFVrVnkMI2wJkzmPELwAOjiNnUO95DsXbV31AEQ34UbpzL44/s1600/Photo09011125.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02KB8j7S-0BLY601X6prpC0U11ctYPZiz8nQ-7r_ThHMcJ00fDpi-pJC75oHrP4zfGBqKsRMbidsTk1PxASe0qvp5Lu30QFVrVnkMI2wJkzmPELwAOjiNnUO95DsXbV31AEQ34UbpzL44/s200/Photo09011125.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><i>This totally didn’t work for me. I couldn’t get it in the corners and it left blotchy spots where I couldn’t get it to smooth in the corners. Plus, by the second day, the stain had broken down the rubber in my rubber gloves! I ended up with stain all over my fingers anyway. The stain I chose was dark and I did multiple layers, so paint brush marks didn’t end up showing anyway.<br /><br />TIP:<br />Always have make your strokes go with the grain of the wood! It makes it look more realistic.<br /><br /></i></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">I used a small 1 inch brush and made smooth strokes with the wood grain. I discovered that I liked the “streaks” left by where the brush strokes overlapped a little. They didn’t really show up by the time I hit the 3<sup>rd</sup> coat, but it kept the wood grain look.<br /><br />TIP: This is a long process, so rather than throw away or clean the brushes and rollers every time I stopped for the day, I put them in a plastic baggie or Saran Wrap (getting out as much of the air as possible). Putting the brushes/rollers with stain on them in the fridge made the stay usable longer; however, don't do this with the poly!</span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="color: black; font-style: normal; text-indent: -24px;"><i><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></i></b><b style="color: black; font-style: normal; text-indent: -24px;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wipe stain with the grain, with long strokes</span>.</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-indent: -24px;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"> </span></span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -24px;">For an authentic, stained wood look, make sure to wipe with the grain of the wood and be mindful of intersections. Keep the coats even but thin. <b><i>Warning, the first coat will look like crap.</i></b> At this point you will totally be second guessing yourself and possibly cursing my name. It will get better, I promise.<br /><br /><b><i>VERY IMPORTANT! Let each coat dry for at least 12 hours. Seriously. I don't care if the can says you "can re-coat in 2 hours". Don't do it.</i></b></span></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Each coat gets better and better. It took me 3 coats till the color looked even and natural.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">I applied the stain with little strokes (with the grain) to evenly distribute the stain, then, while it was still wet, I made long, smooth strokes (with the grain!) from the top to the bottom of the whole segment of wood. I feathered the edges when I couldn’t get it in one long stroke.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoCVMNOblMvBeYHqm0eyA6IMYdBpqCOySuVJwWeJd5GzxTD-CazqtIrpvqLhxm9K2GCOzANCeeofQFd-UIOkrrUCgcGekHNg5rxUlXjOnKRhvTtxpznsY-RZkl0-ZLXSKitbicJp3p3cz/s1600/Photo09011125_1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoCVMNOblMvBeYHqm0eyA6IMYdBpqCOySuVJwWeJd5GzxTD-CazqtIrpvqLhxm9K2GCOzANCeeofQFd-UIOkrrUCgcGekHNg5rxUlXjOnKRhvTtxpznsY-RZkl0-ZLXSKitbicJp3p3cz/s200/Photo09011125_1.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<v:shape id="Picture_x0020_4" o:spid="_x0000_s1029" style="height: 173.4pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 335.25pt; margin-top: 0px; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 130.45pt; z-index: -251656192;" type="#_x0000_t75"><v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:/Users/user/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.emz"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><w:wrap type="tight"></w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Some of these cabinets are super long and “feathering” the brush strokes was difficult. One technique I liked was using the brush to glob some stain along the corners/ edges and then putting a glob of stain about every 6”. That way I could paint the stain from top to bottom (with the grain!) in one long, smooth stroke without having to stop and reload my brush. I wish I’d taken a picture!<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b style="background-color: transparent;"><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 17.12px;">After the stain had dried about 6 hours, I flipped the C&D over and stained the other side. Waited 6 hours, then flipped it again to paint the first side again... This meant each side still had 12 full hours to dry, but it took ½ the time to stain my 50! C&D.</span></i></b></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></i></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="color: black; font-style: normal; text-indent: -24px;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tape and mask off area around cabinet boxes.</span></span></b><span style="color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -24px;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -24px;">If you want professional results, you are going to want to spray your sealant (I'll explain more in a minute). Take the doors to the (open) garage to spray, but the vanity will have to get sprayed in place. Yes, you can spray inside your house. Actually, that's how the pros do it. You can pick up plastic drop cloths at Home Depot for dirt cheap. Cover anything you don't want sprayed and make sure to have as much ventilation as possible!<br /></span></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">I really should have made sure I had much better ventilation than I did! I got a little loopy!<br /><br /><b style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;">C&D:<i> I learned the hard way that poly likes to drip to the other side of the C&D you’re working on, leaving drips and patches of mess. I started using Blue Painter’s tape to cover the “back side” while I worked. That way if/when it dripped, it came off when I peeled off the tape. Although it used a lot of tape, it saved me HOURS of resanding, restaining and repolying…</i></span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Rather than mess with a ton of plastic tarps/ sheeting that was going to get stepped on and torn, I used strips of blue painter’s tape where the cabinet boxes met the floor and/or walls. It takes at least 72 hours to do 3 coats of stain and 1 coat of poly on the base cabinets and that's a long time to have tarps to mess around with.</span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: red;">I did about 3 rows of the painter’s tape on the floor. One right at the edge where the cabinet kick plate met the floor, and then another butted up against that one, and another butted up to that one. When done, the tape extended out a little farther than the edge of the cabinet (about 6”). That way when it dripped, the stain landed on the tape, not my floor.</span><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br />{I have no idea why it didn't occur to me to just tape down a 6"-8" wide strip of heavy paper or plastic instead of rows of overlapping tape. Duh! I guess I got used to the thought of using giant sheets of plastic or little strips of tape. *sigh*}</span><span style="color: #93c47d;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">I also put one line of painter's tape inside the cabinet box (where the wood met the inside of the cabinet box, which I didn’t want to stain). This meant I could apply the stain easily around the edges of the wood trim. If I’d cared about the underside of my countertop, I would have done the same thing there.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Moving out the dishwasher, vent hood, and stove wasn’t really an option, so to protect them, I taped them up as best I could, and stained as far back as I could reach. When someone replaces these items, they’ll know the cabinets weren’t originally this color, but I don’t care!</span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><br /></div></li><li><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><b style="font-family: arial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spray vanity and doors with 3-</span></span></b><span style="font-family: arial; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">4 coats of satin lacquer.</span></b> </span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">If you read other tutorials, they will all tell you to use a water-based, wipe on top coat. Here's my thoughts: This is a bathroom. These cabinets will be frequently exposed to water. Water-based sealants aren't durable to long term water exposure.</span></div></li><li>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><br />Once I decided to refinish my cabinets, I decided to make them look and feel as professional as possible. I started watching dozens of YouTube videos and reading on cabinet maker forums. One thing was universal. Professionals use lacquer to seal cabinets for a variety of reasons. #1- Its dries fast! You can re-coat, without sanding, in 30 minutes. #2- It dries hard as a rock, unlike poly products which are essentially flexible plastic. And #3- It is VERY durable. Once fully cured, a lacquered surface should withstand years of heavy use. I know, DIYers are usually scared of lacquer.</span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;"><br />The good news is, I found a clear lacquer in a spray can! I have a couple of paint guns, but I try to avoid running anything but water-based products through them, since I hate the cleanup. Home Depot carries a product by Deft (owned by Minwax) that is perfect! It goes on super even, and gives professional looking results. I sprayed 3 coats on the vanity as well as both</span></span><v:shape alt="Minwax 1 gal. Satin Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane (2-Pack)" id="Picture_x0020_8" o:spid="_x0000_s1028" style="height: 139.8pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 319.2pt; margin-top: 55.2pt; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 139.8pt; z-index: -251653120;" type="#_x0000_t75"><v:imagedata o:title="Minwax 1 gal" src="file:///C:/Users/user/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image004.jpg"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><w:wrap type="tight"></w:wrap></span></v:imagedata></v:shape><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;">sides of the doors and ended up using 6 cans. </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0016KXBU4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0016KXBU4&linkCode=as2&tag=pneumaddicfur-20&linkId=IEN3WZKLHFHWGXIP"><span style="background: white; color: #888888; line-height: 17.12px; text-decoration-line: none;">Here is a link to buy it online</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px;">.<br /><br /><b style="color: black; text-indent: 0px;"><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></i></b></span><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: red; font-family: arial;">Spray lacquer just wasn’t an option for me. It took her 6 cans to do a bathroom vanity. I was doing an entire kitchen. Waaayyy too many cans. </span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: red; font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdFdXlkXhDljtjSqUUTL__LjsPSgI03jX1el2dFEorP8r5srZqNxoGVlc083Xrpw3FaGuJZAH6vKREh1pQ1kL7e0hf2WS4KcabBns3_axA2RUrvR9WSGH-FBsvf3TUAq7jmWI0XLZ2fGo/s1600/poly.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="427" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsdFdXlkXhDljtjSqUUTL__LjsPSgI03jX1el2dFEorP8r5srZqNxoGVlc083Xrpw3FaGuJZAH6vKREh1pQ1kL7e0hf2WS4KcabBns3_axA2RUrvR9WSGH-FBsvf3TUAq7jmWI0XLZ2fGo/s200/poly.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></i></b></div>
<span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b><i><br /><br /><b style="font-style: normal;"><i><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px;">I didn’t spray anything! I used a soft paint brush to put on the Poly and I didn’t notice any brush marks or anything (although I did have to watch for drips.</span><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> <br />On cabinet boxes, I suggest going back about 5 minutes later. You'll be surprised how often there will be some drips you missed</span><span style="color: red;">.</span></span></i></b><br /><br /><span style="color: red;">I used a 2” brush and regular satin polyurethane. Most of the time it only took one coat. <br /><o:p></o:p></span></i></b><b><i><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">FYI, use a soft brush (one intended for poly is awesome and might be worth paying a little more). Also, y<b style="color: black; font-style: normal;"><i><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">ou might want to do 2 coats of poly around the sink cabinet box and doors and drawer faces.}</span></span></i></b></span></span></i></b></span><br />
</span><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: red;">TIP: STIR THE POLY!! Don’t forget to thoroughly STIR THE POLY! I kind of swished it around a little instead of doing a good job EVERY TIME I used it. The result was a too glossy finish at the beginning and toward the end, almost completely matte. </span><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Be careful when stirring the poly not to stir it in a way that will add bubbles into the poly. You want what is on your brush to be clear and bubble free.</span></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">After I polyed I used a piece of paper bag and lightly “sanded” the finished coat. It took down any slightly rough patches and reminded me to check every surface to make sure it was smooth and even). If it didn’t look perfect, then I fixed it (removed the hair or drip or whatever) and just added another coat of poly.</span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">Cabinet Boxes:<i> When polying the sides of the cabinet boxes, I used a similar technique to that mentioned for the stain (horizontal stripes of globbed on poly about every 6 inches so I could smoothly run the brush from top to bottom without having to stop and reload my brush). Watch for drips (especially at the top).<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><i><span style="background: white; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">TIP: Remove the tape while the poly is still wet. Otherwise when you pull up the tape it might take pieces of the poly drip and the stain with it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZnSW1P1doO8oxlOHmiErIZ14OhCVCKsq8gEGVpf0Y2S8EIMUkd1DpP42mqi2mopIICCTKV1VPp8TsQFQcFc6fRB-hzp8vSEoalf-iWsNYpzQ9wuspMl7EQTmFKyYjqIWmTIH1SAJ1d7R/s1600/felt+pads.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZnSW1P1doO8oxlOHmiErIZ14OhCVCKsq8gEGVpf0Y2S8EIMUkd1DpP42mqi2mopIICCTKV1VPp8TsQFQcFc6fRB-hzp8vSEoalf-iWsNYpzQ9wuspMl7EQTmFKyYjqIWmTIH1SAJ1d7R/s200/felt+pads.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add felt or rubber pads</span>.</b><span style="line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: #222222; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;">After allowing the lacquer to dry over-night, one more step I highly recommend is using felt or rubber pads on the corners of the drawer and cabinet faces. These little guys are easy to find, cheap, and help your cabinets function better. The small space they provide between the doors and frames keep the fresh stain and lacquer from sticking to itself. They are also a must for painted cabinets!<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VYN7CS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000VYN7CS&linkCode=as2&tag=pneumaddicfur-20&linkId=QK25Q4VRLXZ7D4H7" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: blue;">Here's a link to buy them online</span></span></a><span class="apple-converted-space" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: #222222;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; text-indent: -24px;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><b style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red; font-family: arial; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /><i>I needed so many of these that the cost really added up (2 for every C&D – 3 for especially long C doors). I found some thick felt pads, at the Dollar Store! (originally for keeping furniture legs from scratching the floor), and cut them up. I quartered the one inch circles and trimmed them in to a rough circle the size of those expensive little pads. A couple of sets of 16 1” pads was way more than I needed to do all the C&D.</i><b style="background-color: transparent; color: black;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: red; line-height: 17.12px;"><i><br />Bonus: The thicker pads made the C&D stick out a little more. Since we decided not to add hardware, this made it a little easier to grip the edge of C&D to open them.</i><br /></span></b></span></b></span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="color: #222222; text-indent: -24px;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><b style="background-color: transparent; color: black; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: red;"> </span></span></b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">Install C&D.</span> </span></span></b><span style="color: red; line-height: 17.12px; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b>It’s much easier to add hardware and hinges on each C&D BEFORE putting them back on the cabinet boxes.</b></span></span></div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<b style="text-indent: 0px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;">BEFORE AND AFTERS: </span></b></div>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<b style="text-indent: 0px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKcyvfrNu5UeFHxidjXQoyzhYA6UmuCAphEQ1BGrMBlwUHiartR8GpTLF0J4LuQO7wBeP8f0TwOVsZkQX27gqUE4mgQIBfRqGutstSUhVHbb7ANjsn5Cs711fl7r-qNjFwgAhlCiXhHz8/s1600/Kitchen+Before+and+Sold.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="1600" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAKcyvfrNu5UeFHxidjXQoyzhYA6UmuCAphEQ1BGrMBlwUHiartR8GpTLF0J4LuQO7wBeP8f0TwOVsZkQX27gqUE4mgQIBfRqGutstSUhVHbb7ANjsn5Cs711fl7r-qNjFwgAhlCiXhHz8/w400-h255/Kitchen+Before+and+Sold.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">Master Bath Before</span></b></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5Dgbjg_qXYTHKyNQBunvLEGdBw48_KhpgI7uXM94WTn-CDDHV40AhmFTxG_EnOjz7Kaz6I4_DZ5Kp5_6I5SzLgJzQwFGzUO_OqTGtGveOH_9YNSaZ-b1jZcEh1iVHScc12IQxKXTWvcH/s1600/Mbath+vanity.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5Dgbjg_qXYTHKyNQBunvLEGdBw48_KhpgI7uXM94WTn-CDDHV40AhmFTxG_EnOjz7Kaz6I4_DZ5Kp5_6I5SzLgJzQwFGzUO_OqTGtGveOH_9YNSaZ-b1jZcEh1iVHScc12IQxKXTWvcH/s320/Mbath+vanity.jpg" width="240" /></span></a><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVDwfmaHPAQCK016DbZPYQB3gURRTI2dJLaq5NfVW1RTFNmKNngRjLfh2V42tZkqvpKLGP4xOBPn6R-6liIl6DtvTM29s0wq0pjlPV6zgrnWfL_RqEw7tCYIcmQrfefc3OWr9Ftg_uSFy/s1600/17_3+17+Master+bath.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVDwfmaHPAQCK016DbZPYQB3gURRTI2dJLaq5NfVW1RTFNmKNngRjLfh2V42tZkqvpKLGP4xOBPn6R-6liIl6DtvTM29s0wq0pjlPV6zgrnWfL_RqEw7tCYIcmQrfefc3OWr9Ftg_uSFy/s320/17_3+17+Master+bath.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"> Master Bath After:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">Guest Bath After:</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBYnsmFJrBupde77OyquVvFgINWA1Y72vN7o7TGnbksk7MmHYEWiwqJ42v0IpH2yyy2Vg-VjMZvETi2BCPQUvHhqZzrcjN-11-qTmajLdzQzQY5Bv-XN5DGxjNqsd0NA0c6N_D9dLap3D/s1600/Kid+bath+faux+marble+walls.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBYnsmFJrBupde77OyquVvFgINWA1Y72vN7o7TGnbksk7MmHYEWiwqJ42v0IpH2yyy2Vg-VjMZvETi2BCPQUvHhqZzrcjN-11-qTmajLdzQzQY5Bv-XN5DGxjNqsd0NA0c6N_D9dLap3D/s320/Kid+bath+faux+marble+walls.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen Before</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzM_JdDwmGwiOE-C9N4WQZkQgOowub9PL4cd9c1c8PUySVXFap2HmcbTyc-YXkOrCZFkyE3cRo8I1dLsR_cIoBoiDD_ssG41hqKt48GpMM8h79ZMnyCaDZhcSt41RFybXzIm0hAxXOZYx/s1600/17_3+13+kitchen+range+-+Copy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzM_JdDwmGwiOE-C9N4WQZkQgOowub9PL4cd9c1c8PUySVXFap2HmcbTyc-YXkOrCZFkyE3cRo8I1dLsR_cIoBoiDD_ssG41hqKt48GpMM8h79ZMnyCaDZhcSt41RFybXzIm0hAxXOZYx/w400-h300/17_3+13+kitchen+range+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen With Drop Ceiling Removed and New Cabinets Planned</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8oPZU0QPjvy4yIHuLw3Z16GblgPqiNynWiOTktdYf8fNE_17AhzycBoFPOZ8Ci4BX4y5OAoAkDSu4t3eG19De47zvwzECqGbuc2dwqJ0kZzPpaTPm1yaoqSifyGL9jugKaJb6z653dev/s1600/17_5Upper+cabinets_centered+over+pairsA.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI8oPZU0QPjvy4yIHuLw3Z16GblgPqiNynWiOTktdYf8fNE_17AhzycBoFPOZ8Ci4BX4y5OAoAkDSu4t3eG19De47zvwzECqGbuc2dwqJ0kZzPpaTPm1yaoqSifyGL9jugKaJb6z653dev/s320/17_5Upper+cabinets_centered+over+pairsA.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen with Cabinets Done (We were actually building some of the cabinets, so the process took so long that I misplaced one set of hinges. Can you tell which cabinet? They showed up later.) </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6xVRCbfpQB3hUyKebDn5WHRWSY8g-m-61jpxUzpKkK0_6aljSuUSW25ojOXOkRz802UwgXzXcer0vlnGdGRmd8StjmBSJPDTWueyf-nYA975rF6d0pDMd6dOprv5ACJtQXuDLDINub_q/s1600/31354120_1613522498743174_277888825047384064_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6xVRCbfpQB3hUyKebDn5WHRWSY8g-m-61jpxUzpKkK0_6aljSuUSW25ojOXOkRz802UwgXzXcer0vlnGdGRmd8StjmBSJPDTWueyf-nYA975rF6d0pDMd6dOprv5ACJtQXuDLDINub_q/w400-h225/31354120_1613522498743174_277888825047384064_n.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen with Wall Removed, Peninsula Added, Granite, and Backsplash - DONE!</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX3ZmMTBmsnTGzInysDLDPs14Z8pW8IA8lFI_PrQbBL0oJ7bBlZky0WsxMDwNRF5IlA0JWFbxH8WrLLqOP-51UjO93MFaUBQTlF3HFNKrXdEOzp_6G9vjJ4z_8eAx8LrWtJFcKtjJHCp-UjLXYDrv8YpphA33zIoX-QSr4YXYzLjXv7-xnhYL0d86Mnw=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX3ZmMTBmsnTGzInysDLDPs14Z8pW8IA8lFI_PrQbBL0oJ7bBlZky0WsxMDwNRF5IlA0JWFbxH8WrLLqOP-51UjO93MFaUBQTlF3HFNKrXdEOzp_6G9vjJ4z_8eAx8LrWtJFcKtjJHCp-UjLXYDrv8YpphA33zIoX-QSr4YXYzLjXv7-xnhYL0d86Mnw=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Flooring is photoshopped in this pic. We didn't finish the flooring until later)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9EM-EcegOS5t3ceey4Ic_dI93eN8gYy3dsDMRPTpcGSQIytw4DzziebgCkRBW5tMg1-oLEKYZbjIKazHIxXMG2I1AK9MSO8EpQqLv1nEUA9lRNJ_FAg7B0LecbDNQOQOns-T2PIok2ZEJBkEbcuW2BGP0JAd_NFi4m8GshJBrqmroGKB6ZCY-F5_xJw=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9EM-EcegOS5t3ceey4Ic_dI93eN8gYy3dsDMRPTpcGSQIytw4DzziebgCkRBW5tMg1-oLEKYZbjIKazHIxXMG2I1AK9MSO8EpQqLv1nEUA9lRNJ_FAg7B0LecbDNQOQOns-T2PIok2ZEJBkEbcuW2BGP0JAd_NFi4m8GshJBrqmroGKB6ZCY-F5_xJw=s320" width="180" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-XnJEKDMy_WD_PARAnXSP36F9V1A36zDud_FKNkqFK1bschfT_wN8kn9qnM0u9DLRJg7pCqpO5BDX5C2Saf5U2d6HVKyGkZaeEKUw2APhtrKmwS_wWVv_hNVmEsSbqfCLjZamT2dEhob/s1600/18_4_19+Before2After+FilmStrip.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="303" data-original-width="1600" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-XnJEKDMy_WD_PARAnXSP36F9V1A36zDud_FKNkqFK1bschfT_wN8kn9qnM0u9DLRJg7pCqpO5BDX5C2Saf5U2d6HVKyGkZaeEKUw2APhtrKmwS_wWVv_hNVmEsSbqfCLjZamT2dEhob/w640-h120/18_4_19+Before2After+FilmStrip.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">UPDATE: </span></b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen with cabinets professionally painted</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1218" data-original-width="2160" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpeElqhbKvA5b9vvUUSsk168Bz0CsMxDPypHQlKHN1Royt26DV--0QeAprbzgZ5Uv5VfM3VnRrNIyU2nFudZAqRmra5sev79nwQb2C5NPQGrN1EcYm4-gBgLrtbDc1B193NIYNRMuQGfUHusGdhzXr3zDdkvaRjJNsc6O3QOIDtyuLfkSaNGRc0FoB7w=s320" width="320" /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpeElqhbKvA5b9vvUUSsk168Bz0CsMxDPypHQlKHN1Royt26DV--0QeAprbzgZ5Uv5VfM3VnRrNIyU2nFudZAqRmra5sev79nwQb2C5NPQGrN1EcYm4-gBgLrtbDc1B193NIYNRMuQGfUHusGdhzXr3zDdkvaRjJNsc6O3QOIDtyuLfkSaNGRc0FoB7w=s2160" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /><b><br /></b></span></div>
<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><i>Would I DIY stain my cabinets again? </i></span></b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">At the time, it was what I could afford and I liked the look of the dark walnut. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">Now, I prefer the lighter paint color and getting that smooth matte finish was something that worked better with a professional paint sprayer. So if it was an option, I'd have a professional painter do it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><h2 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">UPDATE UPDATE: </span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">It has nothing to do with painting/staining cabinets, but wanna see the results of my latest kitchen renovation?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">I kept all of the existing cabinets (I did add a couple) and countertops. I ripped out a couple of walls, moved the ceiling beams into the attic and changed the configuration.<br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;">1970s Kitchen Open Concept</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpcNoB2JONLLr6DNxGE5LiHXfFfbFW9EpC7dg0oWj1xzd_hruZZo84P9_FD15Q7-SBLE_DBlbS6MXoBgJUT6P0_7HhpVAWQwYOsdepFgcVIvOxG1HxSmq91eIdBhjRZ2K_jH9sdKL2qfFo-1S4LNGxqHF12ts5CYHOZfdL-vJWMMl9Lf1NC2P0NjMOOA=s4074" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3056" data-original-width="4074" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpcNoB2JONLLr6DNxGE5LiHXfFfbFW9EpC7dg0oWj1xzd_hruZZo84P9_FD15Q7-SBLE_DBlbS6MXoBgJUT6P0_7HhpVAWQwYOsdepFgcVIvOxG1HxSmq91eIdBhjRZ2K_jH9sdKL2qfFo-1S4LNGxqHF12ts5CYHOZfdL-vJWMMl9Lf1NC2P0NjMOOA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<b style="text-indent: 0px;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-1385803942397889202017-11-08T13:47:00.011-08:002022-07-10T15:03:37.240-07:00Wearing the right size bra?!I can't tell you how many fittings I've done where the person was wearing the wrong size bra, or even thought that they didn't need one!<br />
<br />
A properly fitted bra makes your clothes fit better, and can even make you look thinner!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4Olrd0IJiy64ACMaaTxreSvPSlRYsON0OtW7Qe_dG1FLRj2eS4NaFwq9MkhKSNXe5irqRHdUISZri7rcPhYFvQegoTO_s1hPVwD3GadFt-R4SBGdemH4kTg1D5xDGBGqjHp4UkBx7W9M/s1600/breasts+wo+bra.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="163" data-original-width="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4Olrd0IJiy64ACMaaTxreSvPSlRYsON0OtW7Qe_dG1FLRj2eS4NaFwq9MkhKSNXe5irqRHdUISZri7rcPhYFvQegoTO_s1hPVwD3GadFt-R4SBGdemH4kTg1D5xDGBGqjHp4UkBx7W9M/s1600/breasts+wo+bra.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b>80% of women are wearing the wrong sized bra!</b></span></div>
The lift and support of a good fitting bra can also slow and/or camouflage sagging breasts. <div><br />
<b>Cup Size</b><br />
People with small ribs tend to assume they are As or Bs (because that's often that's all that is available in most bra departments). <div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Your cup size is proportional to your ribs. </b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div><br />The cup on a 36C might be about the size of an orange, but imagine sticking those oranges on the chest of an 8-year-old. They would look huge! Now take those same oranges and stick them on the chest of a big guy. You'd probably barely notice them.<div><br /></div><div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Same exact cup volume</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
28G = 30DDD(F) = 32DD(E) = 34D = 36C = 38B = 40A</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Large Male = they become pecs!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAccZMGXAxjTkWfJzKTkH2Mez-82sT63_MjSSS9xMbxg-eXq2nbYwq0AJJ46FQId0WxZQNQqryrDri5ZueNon4Z5WU2S8unJ_Wl-CzMwxaOH_89nmSd0VT2JSKa1Ru1J7GpSXNg4GPDV4/s1600/Cup+sizes+Corrected.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="1492" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAccZMGXAxjTkWfJzKTkH2Mez-82sT63_MjSSS9xMbxg-eXq2nbYwq0AJJ46FQId0WxZQNQqryrDri5ZueNon4Z5WU2S8unJ_Wl-CzMwxaOH_89nmSd0VT2JSKa1Ru1J7GpSXNg4GPDV4/s320/Cup+sizes+Corrected.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6PRvyPAYI5I" width="459"></iframe></div>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Heads Up!</b></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><i>Many stores will fit you in the size they carry. Meaning if based on your rib and bust measurements, you should be wearing a 28G, and the store doesn't carry that (most don't!), then they might put you in the next size up that they carry. Most likely they don't carry a 30F and they might not carry a 32DD, either so they'd put you in a 34D. Which means the cup size might fit, but the band will be too loose to be supportive!</i></b></blockquote>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Measuring for the Right Size* Bra</span></b><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Band Size</b><br />Measure around your rib cage, just under your breasts where your bra band will go. This is your <b>band size</b>. Round this number up or down to the nearest even number. <br />Ex. 33.5" = 34 or 32.75" = 32<br /><b>Hint:<br /><i>It's always better to round down if your band width is not within half an inch of the next size up, because your bra will stretch over time. You can wear it on the loosest hooks when you purchase it and tighten it as it stretches out.</i></b></li>
<li><b>Bust Size</b><br />Wearing your best-fitting bra, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Subtract your band size from this number. The difference between the 2 numbers is your<b> cup size</b>.<br />Ex. Bust = 38" Band size =34<br />38 minus 34 = 4" cup size</li>
<li><b>Cup Size</b><br />Every inch of cup size equals the letter part of your bra size. 1" = A, 2" = B, 3" = C, 4" = D. <br />Unfortunately, this is where it gets a little confusing. <br />Different brands tend to use different letters for the same cup size. <br />5" can equal E or DD<br />6" can equal F or DDD (some companies even call this EE)<br />7" can equal FF or DDDD or G<br />8" can equal GG or H<br />9" usually equals HH because most companies don't want to use I as it can be confused with the number 1.<br />10" and up tend to use whatever letter they correspond with 10=J, 11=K, 12=L, 13=M, 14=N...</li>
<li><b>Bra Size!</b><br />Add your band size to your cup letter and Voila! You have your correct bra size. <br />Ex. 32DD, 40D, 38GG...</li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ySTR2OdVAyrg94CfSGPtFlQLM8Dbi61I-2b_wT0nuYeMu4XpauGob23aWPwzZMIbWh1WA46KSLLZuua0wRZXgzMEWhmcTJylDKRb-rZF1xIHvkYPyoCEIrnp57U23cc6Emi6gk0a6-fm/s1600/bra+fit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="913" data-original-width="1000" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ySTR2OdVAyrg94CfSGPtFlQLM8Dbi61I-2b_wT0nuYeMu4XpauGob23aWPwzZMIbWh1WA46KSLLZuua0wRZXgzMEWhmcTJylDKRb-rZF1xIHvkYPyoCEIrnp57U23cc6Emi6gk0a6-fm/s320/bra+fit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span><span> * This measuring system is intended to be a jumping-off point. There are things that can affect these numbers like broad/narrow shoulders, different size breasts, measuring over a poorly fitting bra, older breasts tend to lose their elasticity and fullness so may not fill out the upper portion of the bra cup like they used to...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtNhrLDJzJ7f51qPvbdozmZCMNEGHHMoYsa4WSKToU7af4L0yI30Nl5iekX1y9v6gBP-7eh4vPYvdh0Ox3o9ieN_bYZUF7t0sVB-pgpBTY9qLvFlR-hnvXHf-WBCTE1q5aOe0IBgwoE7o/s2048/Bra+cups.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1042" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtNhrLDJzJ7f51qPvbdozmZCMNEGHHMoYsa4WSKToU7af4L0yI30Nl5iekX1y9v6gBP-7eh4vPYvdh0Ox3o9ieN_bYZUF7t0sVB-pgpBTY9qLvFlR-hnvXHf-WBCTE1q5aOe0IBgwoE7o/s320/Bra+cups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span><b><a href="https://www.booborbust.com/" target="_blank">BOOB or BUST!</a></b> - Handy help with bra measuring techniques and more. </span></h2><br /></span><b>All Bras Are Not Created Equal </b><b><br /></b><br />An important part of finding a good bra is trying them on. I compare this to the search for the perfect fitting pair of jeans. All jeans are not created equal. they can run big or little or fit perky/juicy body parts better or worse. The same is true of bras. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAouNfFfdvxDSIw2TrQqwC0kjIxVfO6FSlfojSxHXSrgoALPx-pUeG3mfA8SSdkJEshC229nNXml5ms8oOZlnK01nqM5mxqYM0SS-Mc5ecFvgawMUO-lIyBXlPT_cOgTehdCdDMeadXV4/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAouNfFfdvxDSIw2TrQqwC0kjIxVfO6FSlfojSxHXSrgoALPx-pUeG3mfA8SSdkJEshC229nNXml5ms8oOZlnK01nqM5mxqYM0SS-Mc5ecFvgawMUO-lIyBXlPT_cOgTehdCdDMeadXV4/" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>You might find a brand that fits your body well but discover that different styles of the same brand fit differently. I once purchased a specific brand of bra online. I already owned a bra from this company, so I knew my size (in general, this brand runs small so knowing my size was important!). I bought a different style from the one I owned (a balconette bra). When the bra arrived, the boning on the side poked into my armpit and both the cups and the center front were so high that my bra showed when I wore a top that showed any cleavage. The bra was so uncomfortable I couldn't wear it. </div><div><br /></div><div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><b><span style="color: red;">You know your size, now what?</span></b></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></b></span>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Just like jeans (my nemesis!), every brand and style fits differently. </i></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some run small, some run big, some have stands/boning or underwires that are high under the armpit, on some the gore and/or cups are super high and will show under lower cut tops. </span></blockquote>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><b><blockquote style="text-align: center;">Unfortunately, this means that your best option to finding a good fit is to try the bra on.</blockquote></b></span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> How to tell if a bra fits: </b></span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>A snug band: </b>The band is what should do the majority of the work supporting your breasts, not the straps. You should be able to put one or two fingers under the band, but no more. (This will probably feel snugger than you are used to because you are used to wearing the wrong size bra!)<br /><b>Tip:<br /><i>If your band is pulled away from your body underneath your breasts, this means your cups are probably too small.</i></b></li>
<li><b>Sufficient side coverage:</b> <br />The bra cup should hold all your breast tissue. This means if you're wearing a bra with an underwire, the end of it should be pointing toward the middle of your armpit. You also shouldn't have any breast tissue coming out from the sides of the cups.</li>
<li><b>A flat gore:</b><br />The gore (the part of the bra band that's between the cups) should sit flat against your chest, without digging into your skin uncomfortably. If it doesn't fit flat, your bra cups are probably too small.</li>
<li><b>A smooth curve: </b><br />Avoid the dreaded "quad-boob"/"muffin top that results from the top of a too-small cup cutting into breast tissue above the bra. Instead, look for a fit that results in a clean silhouette with no stray tissue. (<a href="https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Your-Bra-Size" target="_blank">WikiHow To Measure Your Bra Size</a>)</li>
<li><b>Size and Shape:</b><br />Breasts are usually slightly different sizes. If one breast is significantly larger than the other, then I recommend finding a bra that fits the larger breast and adding a small amount of padding to the bra cup (at the bottom of the cup).</li>
<li><b>Secure Bra Straps:</b><br />If your band is the correct size then your bra straps shouldn't constantly slide off your shoulders. This is a common problem for women with narrower frames who are wearing a band that is too big. The straps will be spaced further out on the band than they should be and therefore will be closer to the ball joint of your shoulder rather than the natural curve between the shoulder joint and neck - which means the straps will constantly slip over the shoulder joint and down the arm.<br /><br />If your bra fits well then the band supports most of the weight of your breasts, instead of the shoulder straps. This means that your bra shouldn't be cutting grooves into your shoulder! </li>
</ol><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: large;">For Those Of Us Who Wear Unusual Sizes</span></b><br /><b><br /></b><br />Not only do I have a small rib size and a large cup size (which regular stores don't carry), but I find that most of the time, the underwires on the sides of my bra poke me in the armpit in a lot of bras. Also, I can't always tell how much coverage the bra gives - will it show under low-cut tops? - will someone be able to tell if I'm cold? A lot of times the only way to tell is to just try them on.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Specialty Bra Stores</b><br />Every single brand and style fits differently. This is why I prefer to use a specialty bra shop and get fitted by a professional. (<i>Not </i>a store like V.S. where the <i>secret </i>is that their "trained" fitters tend to put you in the closest-to-your-size bra that they have in stock).<br /><br />Specialty stores usually carry a wide variety of bras to try on to find a good fit and the type of bra that I prefer (coverage, style, brand...).<br /><br /><quote><b><i>Tip: Even bras from the same company can fit differently, I often can't find my size (34HH) in the average store, and bras from specialty stores typically cost a lot ($70+), so if I don't need a bra right away, I usually go to a specialty bra store to get fitted by a professional. They bring me different bras to try on for fit. </i></b><br /><b><i><br /></i></b><b><i>When I find a bra that fits well and that I like, then I discretely take pictures of the tags. Often, I can purchase the exact same bra online for significantly less. When I want to buy another one, I usually find them for even less because they are no longer the latest model. </i></b><br /></quote><br /><b>Buying Online</b><br />Every brand and style of bra fits differently. If you are purchasing a bra you haven't already tried on, you should definitely shop somewhere with a flexible return policy.<div><br /></div><div><b>Losing Weight and Stretched Out Bras</b><br />When purchasing a bra, unless your rib measurement is within a half-inch of a band size (ex. 33.5"-34" would buy a 34), I suggest you buy the next smaller band size (ex. 33" would buy a 32), because your bra will stretch out over time. You can wear it on the loosest hooks when you purchase it or even add an extender and then tighten it as the bra stretches out (or you lose that weight you swear you are going to lose!). </div><div><br /></div><div>If you purchase the smaller band size don't forget about sister sizing! You'll need to go up a cup size if you're going down a band size. If your normal bra size is 40A then you would wear a 38B.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="color: red;"><blockquote><span style="font-size: large;">Sagging - </span><span style="font-size: medium;">As your body gets older you lose a lot of the elasticity of the breast skin, this is the most common cause of saggy breasts, especially for women with larger cup sizes. Wearing a properly fitting bra that supports the breasts can slow this process and/or camouflage it.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></blockquote></span></b></div><div><div><br /></div><b>Alterations</b><br />One option I use a lot is to find a bra that has the right size cups and then have a professional seamstress alter the band size for me. Luckily for me, I happen to be a seamstress, but it's not an especially difficult alteration and many of the specialty stores offer alterations as an additional service.<br /><br /><br /><h2>How To Make Sewing Pattern Modifications</h2><div><b><a href="https://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2020/12/full-bust-adjustment.html" target="_blank">Full Bust Adjustment</a></b></div><h1 class="title style-scope ytd-video-primary-info-renderer" style="background: rgb(249, 249, 249); border: 0px; color: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-color, var(--yt-spec-text-primary)); font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-font-size, var(--yt-navbar-title-font-size, inherit)); font-weight: 400; line-height: var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem); margin: 0px; max-height: calc(2 * var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem)); overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; text-shadow: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-text-shadow, none); transform: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-transform, none);"><br /></h1></div></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br /></blockquote>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Different types/ styles of bras:</span></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Unlined</b> - offer structure but are lightweight because they have no heavy padding.</li>
<li><b>Demi Cup</b> - only covers about half the breast. This allows for low cut tops.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfddGPiUUYt-kLmWsuzMep_kTl_rZVyT_0L10a8mc4Ds05QveJXzmBtNK1CG0a3B1CHOB8RiYAH0qjO46EE-INsuTACdRQV4K_e12J151C8B71IHQg-U0kvxnxalDWo_7QLvA-5ceSEOuz/s1600/demi+cup+bra.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="553" data-original-width="415" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfddGPiUUYt-kLmWsuzMep_kTl_rZVyT_0L10a8mc4Ds05QveJXzmBtNK1CG0a3B1CHOB8RiYAH0qjO46EE-INsuTACdRQV4K_e12J151C8B71IHQg-U0kvxnxalDWo_7QLvA-5ceSEOuz/s200/demi+cup+bra.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demi Bra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Balconette</b> - similar to the Demi cup bra, but usually covers less of the breast. The straps are closer to the outside edge than a standard bra. They also tend to be more femininely embellished.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpg77BKdZRpLGSXUIN1Kd1yWvp_ry7VBAaFGjUZcknUJp5GvuoVAb-nNM_DaTs2iwN3XTOgKSbDsy-dt12r7giQ2CITcqalLRRIFd1xJnZo0PlEExF4ZG2kYtrjWYDmgvDP4elhGjqX_PD/s1600/bra+balconette.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpg77BKdZRpLGSXUIN1Kd1yWvp_ry7VBAaFGjUZcknUJp5GvuoVAb-nNM_DaTs2iwN3XTOgKSbDsy-dt12r7giQ2CITcqalLRRIFd1xJnZo0PlEExF4ZG2kYtrjWYDmgvDP4elhGjqX_PD/s200/bra+balconette.jpg" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balconette Bra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Push-Up</b> - has padding on the bottom or on the sides of the cups to push up the breasts. The outside of the cups can also be padded to add up to 2 cup sizes.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDv_RJ9P8lsX5knBUrHKVmtT5rOLkA3uHzr3QXnxQf_e5UeZ0T5QsB3fGQDeLUmmjwspnotjNTgN39zusTspHJ2MVMuMAphxo-DnJeTQSnOZPgbb45pPzVIrqHgMGtKblliP8aBWjAuCd9/s1600/bra+push+up.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDv_RJ9P8lsX5knBUrHKVmtT5rOLkA3uHzr3QXnxQf_e5UeZ0T5QsB3fGQDeLUmmjwspnotjNTgN39zusTspHJ2MVMuMAphxo-DnJeTQSnOZPgbb45pPzVIrqHgMGtKblliP8aBWjAuCd9/s1600/bra+push+up.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Push-up Plunge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Plunge</b> - similar to the push-up bra, but with a deep v-neckline in the front. </li>
<li><b>Full Coverage</b> - for full-figured/busty women - this has more support and a sturdier underwire<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2r8wYE0ir9yiEqMh2A68vMvNmFnCitIdX5IKkZADeQ3DJMtafWhZPgAZlXiSCSQtRDwsEMmdOWE1fGfRTDW0qLJiTbCIaAWFNnOhT72zimczR0ZtvLOqxPoqie8jmW8RqxPFgHq_LOKUZ/s1600/bra+full+coverage.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2r8wYE0ir9yiEqMh2A68vMvNmFnCitIdX5IKkZADeQ3DJMtafWhZPgAZlXiSCSQtRDwsEMmdOWE1fGfRTDW0qLJiTbCIaAWFNnOhT72zimczR0ZtvLOqxPoqie8jmW8RqxPFgHq_LOKUZ/s1600/bra+full+coverage.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full Coverage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Minimizer </b>- usually worn by full-figured/ busty women who wish to compress the breasts to make them less noticeable and/or clothing fit better.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-j1lkxFp_id9XEgyCftksnXr_Z0hlFWKwOelOgAeV7uhMc4ZQ881MIPCOYuCVJU9B-2hx2VqIGIDmiUn0ll3Ce-dLew3k7s4c-_45rHHY8nCK4BmvNBYDNwf3u5RlH5bgIaLNuDIsoOo/s1600/bra+minimizer.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-j1lkxFp_id9XEgyCftksnXr_Z0hlFWKwOelOgAeV7uhMc4ZQ881MIPCOYuCVJU9B-2hx2VqIGIDmiUn0ll3Ce-dLew3k7s4c-_45rHHY8nCK4BmvNBYDNwf3u5RlH5bgIaLNuDIsoOo/s1600/bra+minimizer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minimizer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Strapless</b> - relies on the support of the band without needing straps.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_mu3oG6FFIZqYDZdBVky-ICvWZAZmWPcwLd-kRNahwIdScCy21BCj9TtFN9R8GW3aJ_Nk3TA7DPSzlLjmj3MlnZWdRpr-jBeabrsKbSOt9SFNL7TdHmSiITtvjyhENyAedg4w2KcAE4N/s1600/bra+strapless+balconette+pushup.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP_mu3oG6FFIZqYDZdBVky-ICvWZAZmWPcwLd-kRNahwIdScCy21BCj9TtFN9R8GW3aJ_Nk3TA7DPSzlLjmj3MlnZWdRpr-jBeabrsKbSOt9SFNL7TdHmSiITtvjyhENyAedg4w2KcAE4N/s1600/bra+strapless+balconette+pushup.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strapless Pushup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Convertible</b> - straps can be reconfigured so that the bra straps can be moved and reattached to work under a halter, racerback, backless, one shoulder.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5ZM3YAOiIQhNRYTYuQcZXb_Zz4qfPMEt_EwyFoRwSTJonDJIGywYgsJsWvB36NF7b1-8LhJN6Cpw-VZ8e5LS-WwPGC_Rily66d-cDPaMb_qvQUK3UiJOHmQCffIbR30sp0ByT79GMigj/s1600/bra+convertable.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL5ZM3YAOiIQhNRYTYuQcZXb_Zz4qfPMEt_EwyFoRwSTJonDJIGywYgsJsWvB36NF7b1-8LhJN6Cpw-VZ8e5LS-WwPGC_Rily66d-cDPaMb_qvQUK3UiJOHmQCffIbR30sp0ByT79GMigj/s1600/bra+convertable.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Convertible Straps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Sports Bra</b> - usually made of stretchy fashion fabric. Designed to compress breasts and keep them from bouncing/ moving during vigorous exercise. Usually extends down the ribs a couple of inches like a longline bra. Typically does not have adjustable straps or underwire. Can be worn under athletic clothes or by itself. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxbcVwdNBbqOpmoAHChhZSNg8AqkqN4ko2RDFloWEQCdaoH4dV3pUpaPRKzyGFgYxjwEFAezzxKtwCArVWtZm2ma1uoO4aW83_NAqJj_3fSW-Qnxj-ldXnKnCwvg0PX9EyPXRufGGLpV1/s1600/bra+sports.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikxbcVwdNBbqOpmoAHChhZSNg8AqkqN4ko2RDFloWEQCdaoH4dV3pUpaPRKzyGFgYxjwEFAezzxKtwCArVWtZm2ma1uoO4aW83_NAqJj_3fSW-Qnxj-ldXnKnCwvg0PX9EyPXRufGGLpV1/s200/bra+sports.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sports Bra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Bralette/ Longline</b> - provides a little more coverage because the bra band extends down the ribs, but usually in a lighter, more flexible fabric. Can be worn under sheer tops and be meant to be visible.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHg2hy2ZXIvIbhp0uUXHY7ohuuE31Nz24qJlszfVNW3j2U6Zz_cGzSFurhYVM40YdKAzbXljeLBLdrAJQ_itNLvq6Wm2Mqf4RUgXCrS4rORk6WSIAyCAxB85CMPadxSwz36a5Tu4laMsN/s1600/bra+longline.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHg2hy2ZXIvIbhp0uUXHY7ohuuE31Nz24qJlszfVNW3j2U6Zz_cGzSFurhYVM40YdKAzbXljeLBLdrAJQ_itNLvq6Wm2Mqf4RUgXCrS4rORk6WSIAyCAxB85CMPadxSwz36a5Tu4laMsN/s1600/bra+longline.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longline/ Bralette</td></tr>
</tbody></table></li><li><b>Adhesive/Tape</b> - Adhesive bras or boob tapes are great for wearing under clothes that are backless, strapless, and/or have plunging necklines. They can also be used to minimize or bind the breasts. <br /><br />Adhesive bras and tapes can create cleavage and even add cup sizes. However, finding an adhesive bra that supports the breasts and stays on (many won't stay stuck to the skin and/or are painful to remove) can be very difficult. <br /><br />For example, this bra is pushing the breasts together, giving the woman cleavage, but it is not supporting the breasts at all. Dancing and any other activity where the breasts are bouncing around (like running on the beach in a lifeguard swimsuit! lol), would probably be painful. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsa6IeUobOnzEneFoFTHDgezYz0WY_D7NPCl9-uNKjuM5haCUkcxof8rlTgtStovgNyT70GXbmeKlk_G6GvcDkgQEqyRa6Joc9U81qMydyhKDqMcn-U6426pdMb1eJ_poQQ0B3zza4poh/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSsa6IeUobOnzEneFoFTHDgezYz0WY_D7NPCl9-uNKjuM5haCUkcxof8rlTgtStovgNyT70GXbmeKlk_G6GvcDkgQEqyRa6Joc9U81qMydyhKDqMcn-U6426pdMb1eJ_poQQ0B3zza4poh/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKgLQqCmmo2fKkSieOISm-CxebGaqlJxkMBOmysKTw4ooMRRNQg-c8Elbgh5IrBy5w_skcooF7Mt2y2VmtE4FH-kLOFUrzv7L8ZJU-dZs1tiB5JYbra12piIivYser6WtXI-9W3bQDvM6/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKgLQqCmmo2fKkSieOISm-CxebGaqlJxkMBOmysKTw4ooMRRNQg-c8Elbgh5IrBy5w_skcooF7Mt2y2VmtE4FH-kLOFUrzv7L8ZJU-dZs1tiB5JYbra12piIivYser6WtXI-9W3bQDvM6/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a></div><br /></div>Think of an adhesive bra like you do any other bra - does it provide the lift and support you want? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_ti89nBxmeDQOHw2milx6jm5eW-kmsxdEopGxFcKoZx_eyjqfBiEfhzZs4G5d4KLYBDwXWTrsETgjFTAQrD_jSlApgKe2leX9Uck71HM7TOgJNnpnzejf_bMwrCJ_q3h9hvdx3hZylVu/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="505" data-original-width="908" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_ti89nBxmeDQOHw2milx6jm5eW-kmsxdEopGxFcKoZx_eyjqfBiEfhzZs4G5d4KLYBDwXWTrsETgjFTAQrD_jSlApgKe2leX9Uck71HM7TOgJNnpnzejf_bMwrCJ_q3h9hvdx3hZylVu/w320-h178/image.png" title="Sticky Bra Review by Cosmopolitan" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/reviews/a54147/sticky-bra-reviews/" target="_blank">Sticky Bra Review by Cosmopolitan</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wFMYPdMsZ5V-BLcUcoLZbQLIx9fkeEqztFskxh_FCVwZEaZoFDY-T4TGe8dUO8aptr6fJlvnGVMxRzCWyMJ4tEiOqsAy_YpwxHam0R00w9KTR4hU494y41pE3CGjZsE9nj_fMp_PsOhM/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="794" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wFMYPdMsZ5V-BLcUcoLZbQLIx9fkeEqztFskxh_FCVwZEaZoFDY-T4TGe8dUO8aptr6fJlvnGVMxRzCWyMJ4tEiOqsAy_YpwxHam0R00w9KTR4hU494y41pE3CGjZsE9nj_fMp_PsOhM/w200-h187/image.png" width="200" /></a></div><br />
</li>
<li><b>Misses Kisses Bra - </b>frontless, backless, and strapless! It sounds crazy but it works. There are other brands but this one gets great reviews.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjonC7pkyab9wM5LjqjmsLU6UMOnoHeERXbseHdnNazvCEE2fsu2JvRaYjUidjbY6gt47v_a8_3N9V5Z3U0Kwu4Y8YBi7nHH6smcO_lP1VF0isxGEixcl3D1bSpwlrHaXE77D_15Us_SZ9L/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="903" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjonC7pkyab9wM5LjqjmsLU6UMOnoHeERXbseHdnNazvCEE2fsu2JvRaYjUidjbY6gt47v_a8_3N9V5Z3U0Kwu4Y8YBi7nHH6smcO_lP1VF0isxGEixcl3D1bSpwlrHaXE77D_15Us_SZ9L/" width="240" /></a></div><br /></li></ul><div><br /></div><ul><li><b>Longline/ Bustier</b> - usually strapless and extends down to the waist or hips. Often used in bridal wear for dresses that are low-cut and/or backless. Made of sturdier bra-type materials with boning, Usually has hook and eye closures just like a regular bra, but all the way down the front or back. Can be used for slimming the torso, waist, and hips (if extends past the waist).<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTvJ0WWHa2gMU1e5m10cVVlQ6lMdmx_w-FORW5uaqgQ5l4KIXlly9lo1_EU_O5f2z4dtAMYJIZ_y6yfpqjkvkPmvMmKAjUGY4gTkROEx9vQ88We-0Bzi9MF_pOy9hv9u332qdDV3eW8zh/s1600/bra+bustier.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="580" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTvJ0WWHa2gMU1e5m10cVVlQ6lMdmx_w-FORW5uaqgQ5l4KIXlly9lo1_EU_O5f2z4dtAMYJIZ_y6yfpqjkvkPmvMmKAjUGY4gTkROEx9vQ88We-0Bzi9MF_pOy9hv9u332qdDV3eW8zh/s320/bra+bustier.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longline/ Bustier waist length and longline</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Corset</b> - Similar to a bustier, but made of fashion fabric instead of bra-type materials with built-in boning. Usually closed with ribbon through grommets laced down the front or back of the corset. Often tightened in a way that pushes up the breasts and compresses the torso (and waist and hips depending on the length), creating an hourglass shape. Can be worn as an undergarment or over a blouse or dress. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6crrgwc5MNqYhS_aB-dbZhDH16Igd-v5brAZusgWTHNYJQ9nJn_b7d821HFGGDPOwmdrTeA2yAquyNocCb7PFPSvYC4XxkpouZO4tToWAsfqcIsiRQ0Eu7imyXZ_Uou45eApuIuyeTngA/s1600/bra+corset+laces.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="268" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6crrgwc5MNqYhS_aB-dbZhDH16Igd-v5brAZusgWTHNYJQ9nJn_b7d821HFGGDPOwmdrTeA2yAquyNocCb7PFPSvYC4XxkpouZO4tToWAsfqcIsiRQ0Eu7imyXZ_Uou45eApuIuyeTngA/s200/bra+corset+laces.jpg" width="198" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical Lacing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li> <ul>
<li><b>Underbust</b> -fit around and under the bust but not actually supporting the bust (with straps this is usually considered to be a corset, without straps this is usually called a <b>Waist Cinch</b> or <b>Waist Trainer</b>). Can also push-up the breasts by supporting the base of the breasts without covering the breasts.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RUzklDjJhOX9YViD1wWpXVTl83ijwwojKbq3hQvvvep24AHUXQTFVAtw2WwCXCfnhn8vZq_jvPR5wX05dlWrLRvD76oYGRT1ae_yVTYMerWRdqI4y1yqkYVgVGRrKck9Z7Cy-kszz9-H/s1600/bra+corset+straps+under+bust.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="270" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RUzklDjJhOX9YViD1wWpXVTl83ijwwojKbq3hQvvvep24AHUXQTFVAtw2WwCXCfnhn8vZq_jvPR5wX05dlWrLRvD76oYGRT1ae_yVTYMerWRdqI4y1yqkYVgVGRrKck9Z7Cy-kszz9-H/s200/bra+corset+straps+under+bust.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underbust corset - halter straps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><b>Overbust </b>- with or without straps<br />- Push up the breasts without using a breast cup or molded form by compressing the bottom of the breast and pushing the rest of the breast tissue upward<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgexusE_ZPQqw7sSLy6oX06hQUVD2Q3P8TpHpuj6egu8Fkj2QVcr9RZlbHW93L9Pc6ZAY4el7qGj1fxKTIlrz94tSUdrGRlvie3iGbj8DV-cVSBqb8Gpp47x5ZOTPJZ6syPdT6BRA20r4Jl/s1600/bra+corset+no+cup.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="290" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgexusE_ZPQqw7sSLy6oX06hQUVD2Q3P8TpHpuj6egu8Fkj2QVcr9RZlbHW93L9Pc6ZAY4el7qGj1fxKTIlrz94tSUdrGRlvie3iGbj8DV-cVSBqb8Gpp47x5ZOTPJZ6syPdT6BRA20r4Jl/s200/bra+corset+no+cup.jpg" width="156" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demi cup corset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />- Princess seams - no individual cups, but the fabric is shaped to accommodate the breasts.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Hk964v_r3HsRiROviJUU2UVuESvK9p-lCLtplkDgB-HLM1ZuODa8J4j-Rj1nFR9w_MRM9vFtc9HkR4CQQI1yag7WzzE8LEb0zkEWLvfcCbaXN6ePgHZrZkdC9R7m6ZoOKHB-ubScTO8G/s1600/bra+corset+straps+princess.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Hk964v_r3HsRiROviJUU2UVuESvK9p-lCLtplkDgB-HLM1ZuODa8J4j-Rj1nFR9w_MRM9vFtc9HkR4CQQI1yag7WzzE8LEb0zkEWLvfcCbaXN6ePgHZrZkdC9R7m6ZoOKHB-ubScTO8G/s1600/bra+corset+straps+princess.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess seams with straps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li>- Individual cups<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZm_hdHIF9a6R2sVORpiFr_j5G4DXvu5FzhAaD5r2A6ZasLlMs_mPTCMxRphC1JHrpntNdyZju6P_EglngXFuXuLbzfYHKUyD6BfFF9oBcej7x0H8jIUYcKclzTEWp2ip13TvssHiieqU/s1600/bra+corset+straps+cups.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvZm_hdHIF9a6R2sVORpiFr_j5G4DXvu5FzhAaD5r2A6ZasLlMs_mPTCMxRphC1JHrpntNdyZju6P_EglngXFuXuLbzfYHKUyD6BfFF9oBcej7x0H8jIUYcKclzTEWp2ip13TvssHiieqU/s1600/bra+corset+straps+cups.jpg" /></a></div>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<br /><div><h1 class="title style-scope ytd-video-primary-info-renderer" style="background: rgb(249, 249, 249); border: 0px; color: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-color, var(--yt-spec-text-primary)); font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-font-size, var(--yt-navbar-title-font-size, inherit)); font-weight: 400; line-height: var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem); margin: 0px; max-height: calc(2 * var(--yt-navbar-title-line-height, 2.4rem)); overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; text-shadow: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-text-shadow, none); transform: var(--ytd-video-primary-info-renderer-title-transform, none);"><br /></h1>
</div></div></div></div></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-55668132714726477602017-10-29T20:01:00.003-07:002017-10-29T20:01:43.870-07:00Wonder Woman Costume!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNCycoNIpn1Cy_99U-l5r_CKb8dCAwQiZXv_PaF7cdnBPYnShzMalBzMQWH__RjPJ_62vXy_qbwcF-zPeWZqdLNQxzamTD1JWqpzdYZLBfwbPp5rxAAtIlA49mGVwxppd6zUjEp1piA0S/s1600/WWcostume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNCycoNIpn1Cy_99U-l5r_CKb8dCAwQiZXv_PaF7cdnBPYnShzMalBzMQWH__RjPJ_62vXy_qbwcF-zPeWZqdLNQxzamTD1JWqpzdYZLBfwbPp5rxAAtIlA49mGVwxppd6zUjEp1piA0S/s320/WWcostume.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wonder Woman! Well, if Wonder got older and had 4 kids (with Superman!) I whipped up this cute costume for a Halloween costume party. I think it turned out great! </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHkB29koa_kMaT6S90eZemI7pAGpGUcbJaT9g4qbo54qM5Gr3mzR21y2nh8DX76LKSJaLSKm7-lLV-R3q1oToOTHkr6Vl8uK00u9qGp7WG7AXDqW-8T_Ml4mm_OkhlQrXrJQN4o4ZMCD5/s1600/WW16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHkB29koa_kMaT6S90eZemI7pAGpGUcbJaT9g4qbo54qM5Gr3mzR21y2nh8DX76LKSJaLSKm7-lLV-R3q1oToOTHkr6Vl8uK00u9qGp7WG7AXDqW-8T_Ml4mm_OkhlQrXrJQN4o4ZMCD5/s200/WW16.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvA9V1dTlQYsc_QKiNDCyLm3Y3XWWLSHosinpSO66Okyc1Th3RIz8eQqnUvQ9m1ZU8Hceewl9-ftK1NYZIBzu7yQxx9Uemqn-k4r3tBy6PwSepnmgystyNC8lxnaJg9RU7LtTAEDo0Ics/s1600/red+corset+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1315" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvA9V1dTlQYsc_QKiNDCyLm3Y3XWWLSHosinpSO66Okyc1Th3RIz8eQqnUvQ9m1ZU8Hceewl9-ftK1NYZIBzu7yQxx9Uemqn-k4r3tBy6PwSepnmgystyNC8lxnaJg9RU7LtTAEDo0Ics/s200/red+corset+front.jpg" width="163" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;">Wonder Woman's Bustier</span></b><br />
The red corset top started out as a <a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/corset-lingerie-contest-vogue-9273.html" target="_blank">(failed) project.</a> When the gold satin Wonder Woman symbol was appliqued to the top of the red vinyl corset, it smoothed out some of the rough spots caused by trying to sew stiff vinyl into a curved bra cup and saved the corset!<br />
<b><i>(Notes: For large busted women, always use an underwire when making a corset. Be aware that vinyl is stiff and darts and seams will look pointy and sharp instead of smooth. Vinyl does not breath at all! You will get hot and sweaty in an unlined corset.)</i></b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghccStzJdUlP_uW5-wg38hWR6P9vKTnBbWpSYAjFWCeSkNyna2goAN7OBqZ3fdAqOMWjOeN_SQWn4gPWGyimqRM_bFSsbzcuPpARUTM3qC_qB0wR3egyrd71XLiYEvtOXei4_wmoCjJIhb/s1600/Tiara+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="957" data-original-width="783" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghccStzJdUlP_uW5-wg38hWR6P9vKTnBbWpSYAjFWCeSkNyna2goAN7OBqZ3fdAqOMWjOeN_SQWn4gPWGyimqRM_bFSsbzcuPpARUTM3qC_qB0wR3egyrd71XLiYEvtOXei4_wmoCjJIhb/s200/Tiara+closeup.jpg" width="163" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;">Wonder Woman's Tiara</span></b><br />
This headband is made from the stiff red vinyl cut into a tiara shape held on in the back with a wide non-roll waistband elastic. I cut a small star into a piece of the same gold satin used on the corset and covered the red vinyl tiara. Appliqued around the cut out star to show the red vinyl underneath.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Wonder Woman's Lasso of Truth</span></b> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was just some gold drapery cord I had laying around. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Wonder Woman's Shorts</span></b></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiviF90tDoSM_K9GHWOd7OKBOEVyFO2WIRIfmNJtY7CNzAKaN76yCUSa8n9imnwFA9mJlPCMCisa_5EdXUuwIamXipAhAKlaItlvey3s5b7hs6h1nH7ofX9CzNCfsv-zhvOWYAJOj-z8nse/s1600/wonder+woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="626" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiviF90tDoSM_K9GHWOd7OKBOEVyFO2WIRIfmNJtY7CNzAKaN76yCUSa8n9imnwFA9mJlPCMCisa_5EdXUuwIamXipAhAKlaItlvey3s5b7hs6h1nH7ofX9CzNCfsv-zhvOWYAJOj-z8nse/s200/wonder+woman.jpg" width="130" /></a>The more mature Wonder Woman is not about to wear her old swimsuit style undergarment! So this soft blue with white stars satin fabric was made with a simple sleep short pattern. The elastic waistband was covered with a purchased gold belt.<br />
<b><i>(Note: If you can't find a similar fabric, I have also made a version with white paint stenciled/ stamped onto a blue fabric. You can cut a star shape in a piece of cardboard and dab on the white paint, or cut a sponge into a star shape and stamp the painted sponge star onto your fabric. Be sure to let the paint dry before you move it!)</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Wonder Woman's Boots</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These iconic boots are a simple boot cover that's worn over whatever shoe you want to wear. I traced one of my own boots as a pattern. Then appliqued on the white stripes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCocPC3H3n54iOh2qRTTL51HUkSi-J1iX9vGQjWSUMMy1U0iAIIybew-1y5FWGeA3fDbyZzqnHoVqlbMzXiWXDF7EIxFjt_BNiLWhGMYMfy3Vm0bS5MkYIFONi_krffl3tCllVJEJb2HsG/s1600/Image1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="576" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCocPC3H3n54iOh2qRTTL51HUkSi-J1iX9vGQjWSUMMy1U0iAIIybew-1y5FWGeA3fDbyZzqnHoVqlbMzXiWXDF7EIxFjt_BNiLWhGMYMfy3Vm0bS5MkYIFONi_krffl3tCllVJEJb2HsG/s320/Image1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-10275388932882221922015-10-19T08:24:00.001-07:002016-01-07T10:00:34.229-08:00BrushStrokes<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU83wP8mOWg4IvnavafdoWNT-iW-aHlvz0DzWqUqp2Ta0sQ_hyphenhyphengM6TC_lKeaf1KHC-S6uYI2zxfEXtO3Y5Zh2u_602NdHVTYVYmYslKoZwgICYpykodBzlRCiOyJeCKlFz2dZW-kT5Rldw/s1600/BrushStrokes+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU83wP8mOWg4IvnavafdoWNT-iW-aHlvz0DzWqUqp2Ta0sQ_hyphenhyphengM6TC_lKeaf1KHC-S6uYI2zxfEXtO3Y5Zh2u_602NdHVTYVYmYslKoZwgICYpykodBzlRCiOyJeCKlFz2dZW-kT5Rldw/s320/BrushStrokes+Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h2>
Life is like a canvas. It begins blank & every day is another brush stroke. Make your life a masterpiece.</h2>
Mary Brush's family and friends often refer to her as a "Renaissance Woman" and it's not too difficult to figure out why. She is passionate about a variety of things, including working with small businesses, sales and marketing campaigns, manuscript editing, copy writing, graphic and CAD design, web design, custom sewing, interior design, and therapeutic parenting. Her enthusiasm, talent and hard work ensure that she excels in all of them. Her struggle has often been deciding where to focus her attention.<br />
<br />
Today, Mary Brush lends her years of experience to the corporate world. BrushStrokes offerings focus on corporate consulting (including restructuring operations, HR, profit and loss, and sales and marketing - including marketing campaigns and web site design) and editing (business writing, manuscripts, eBooks, presentations and speeches).<br />
<br />
BrushStrokes began in 1988 as a clothing design studio, specializing in custom clothing and design, and quickly expanded to include interior decorating, architectural CAD design. graphic design and manuscript editing. Working with entrepreneurs and product development design expanded her skill set to include marketing collateral, presentations, web design and campaigns.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicROuQxOCRonD2lhbhJu4fMwq2zZI-ssazPJDThWfsGC9wk7gBuDP1i3RZC1zU5nBJGhKZ2tD2iV9sOuXDzUDW_7d4jXHuIxXynxhJ47X9-WUTwU2fXoLH5dMVvFH9uZ9gBj6FQEw_WoY-/s1600/BrushStrokes+data+sheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicROuQxOCRonD2lhbhJu4fMwq2zZI-ssazPJDThWfsGC9wk7gBuDP1i3RZC1zU5nBJGhKZ2tD2iV9sOuXDzUDW_7d4jXHuIxXynxhJ47X9-WUTwU2fXoLH5dMVvFH9uZ9gBj6FQEw_WoY-/s640/BrushStrokes+data+sheet.jpg" width="486" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-66776659205542016252015-01-25T13:41:00.003-08:002022-02-19T00:52:30.843-08:00Making Open-bottom Wheelchair PantsI designed <a href="http://www.brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2014/09/open-bottom-pants-for-wheelchair-lift.html" target="_blank">several types of adaptive clothing</a> for my mom with ALS. This post will detail how to make open-bottom wheelchair pants by modifying existing pants (I chose stretchy, elastic waist pants, but it would be possible to use other types of styles and fabrics with some tweaking). When looking down (or from the side) at the person seated in their chair or laying in bed, the pants will look complete - you should not be able to see any bare skin. Only the person and his/ her caregiver will know the person's bottom is bare.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg25n0e1TLX5yK0xqbmDasbpj3zWjOzMMKkVgvwQozj0F0a53WA9g-_tcS5YGP3vKWI_4G4BC2FA7gnBVegwD1FRD5D5snrt1pPJV13JTuhZlavHXB63IcQDFGkOQhmlN0fKm_caFzRL7Cq/s1600/silverts+pants+back+snap.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg25n0e1TLX5yK0xqbmDasbpj3zWjOzMMKkVgvwQozj0F0a53WA9g-_tcS5YGP3vKWI_4G4BC2FA7gnBVegwD1FRD5D5snrt1pPJV13JTuhZlavHXB63IcQDFGkOQhmlN0fKm_caFzRL7Cq/s1600/silverts+pants+back+snap.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9Jbh3Qsea23Y5ajUX31rLJ9MN7MilU6cY3qQxOAKx1uZWeg3mGDmr30ksfL6FwSIC4tQcCml5XIMNIZK-kanliBuF9Faro5yQ7AcXRLxRYf0DC68AneUt365np4wFK_NAwlU0sB9fG9q/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1715" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9Jbh3Qsea23Y5ajUX31rLJ9MN7MilU6cY3qQxOAKx1uZWeg3mGDmr30ksfL6FwSIC4tQcCml5XIMNIZK-kanliBuF9Faro5yQ7AcXRLxRYf0DC68AneUt365np4wFK_NAwlU0sB9fG9q/" width="201" /></a></div><br /></div>
When my mother needed open bottom pants (to prevent the need to lower pants down and out of the way when using the restroom and when she was using the lift), we found <a href="http://www.silverts.com/show.php/product/23080-adaptive-wheelchair-clothing-pants-slack-adaptive-clothes" target="_blank">Silvert's open bottom wheelchair pants</a>. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/447949676" title="vimeo-player" width="640"></iframe>
These were great, but apparently, they were designed to be used by someone who could stand and/or support their own weight - because while you could slide the leg part on while the person was in a seated position, the waist closure was in the middle of the back. This is almost impossible to reach if the person is seated in a chair or laying on a bed. <br />
<br />
I decided to modify the Silvert's pants so that a caregiver could put them on easily while the person was seated in the chair or laying on a bed.<br />
<br />
For this project, I'm assuming you are fairly experienced at sewing, so I will not be drawing out every single step. If something is confusing, just let me know and I'll try to explain it better.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Altering Pants To Be Open-Bottom For Wheelchair/Lift.</b></h2><div><b>This works best on baggy sweat pants (or other knit material not requiring finished edges).</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #cc0000;">Seated Side Point (SSP</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">)</span></u><i><u>-</u> When the person is seated mark the waist where the person's side meets the back of the chair then measure one and a half inches toward the back seam. This is your Seated Side Point. </i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><u>Seated Side Measurement</u></span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><u> (SSM)</u>. </span></b><b><i>Measure the distance from SSP to the seat of the chair. This number is your Seated Side Measurement.</i></b><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Mark the Seated Side point on the waistband. <br />In this image, the SSM is marked on the left, but you can put the mark on whichever side is most convenient for the caregiver to access when securing the pants. Ex. if the person's bed is up against a wall then the opposite side from the wall would be the better place to put a closure so the caregiver doesn't have to lean over the person to access the closure.)</li>
<li>Stitch the waistband on both sides of SSP to secure the elastic. </li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH1QuY6ZR2GsXWze62THXhJEPOBndKpLLKrOM81iODXeXvhgtWDzTzn6NwQLtYZNW4TI-U1UrcyD-uYi-YZ3QhhloBGM0V6gA7rY1rK4Z7CcwHa3UyxB72DMtC4VhGbCPxI3_xFrmlVJyofEIE84Z-HIy0vSuXP4cwT-efTlghBcpuQYpMgEczTl5mVg=s868" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="868" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH1QuY6ZR2GsXWze62THXhJEPOBndKpLLKrOM81iODXeXvhgtWDzTzn6NwQLtYZNW4TI-U1UrcyD-uYi-YZ3QhhloBGM0V6gA7rY1rK4Z7CcwHa3UyxB72DMtC4VhGbCPxI3_xFrmlVJyofEIE84Z-HIy0vSuXP4cwT-efTlghBcpuQYpMgEczTl5mVg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><u>Seated Back Measurement (SBM)</u></span><i>. When the person is seated, at the center back, measure from the top of the waistband to the seat of the chair. </i></b><br />
<br />
<b>Marking the cutting line.</b><br />
3. From the top of the waistband, draw an imaginary SSM line plus 2 inches down the center back seam of the pant. Mark the bottom of this line on the pants.<br />
4. Starting at the Seated Side Point on the waistband (between the 2 rows of stitches) and going straight down the back of the pants, draw a cutting line the length of the Seated Side Measurement (SSM) plus 1 inch. " </div><div>5. On the opposite side of the pants, draw a matching imaginary line straight down the length of the pant. Seated Back Measurement + 1". Mark this bottom point on the pants.<br />
6. Connect these 3 marks with a curved line.<br />
7. Cut between the stitched lines at the waistband straight down to the curved line.<br />
8. Pivot and cut along the curved line.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2iLQbroZSHtnI_khlcr4zljn9-Fo0q0zif1x1SOYKWnmJxsSVP44zcMtayylt5l5X80M5V1UgrVPIP71WMb-23v5pfv4SHmJMZeRO9hcbT7EA1qQYfBTXJ2V3xWV2-Iwp9LAWl7tdJp-Xfk1kExzYoR6Bf35J2tIMnF80_A47l1tnyctZxSNX6l9Byg=s1572" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1496" data-original-width="1572" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2iLQbroZSHtnI_khlcr4zljn9-Fo0q0zif1x1SOYKWnmJxsSVP44zcMtayylt5l5X80M5V1UgrVPIP71WMb-23v5pfv4SHmJMZeRO9hcbT7EA1qQYfBTXJ2V3xWV2-Iwp9LAWl7tdJp-Xfk1kExzYoR6Bf35J2tIMnF80_A47l1tnyctZxSNX6l9Byg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNZLVIaeXLcXB3Jo1UFKqaOs-01FdtZSon9bnZqOrgegRUkKowNXGwfDeXEaa80DxS634O8r01KetWjT9RKIzpas79jSlos7YReH4gtsiZ3IAgWzaZVKA_0qRg0fDLsM4L4w7U4kSWvb_GffIUXhYvrIvMcPTqD-otmi20f2qNevp1765SBD7c71H9Iw=s868" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="868" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNZLVIaeXLcXB3Jo1UFKqaOs-01FdtZSon9bnZqOrgegRUkKowNXGwfDeXEaa80DxS634O8r01KetWjT9RKIzpas79jSlos7YReH4gtsiZ3IAgWzaZVKA_0qRg0fDLsM4L4w7U4kSWvb_GffIUXhYvrIvMcPTqD-otmi20f2qNevp1765SBD7c71H9Iw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>
9. Open the crotch seam from the cutting line toward the front of the pants as far as is needed to allow the person to urinate easily without wetting his or her pants. This opening will not be visible when the person is seated with their knees together but should allow access to the groin area when the person is seated on the commode with knees slightly apart.</div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcy879HZvmmVuOkp9_vHB_wpdeEENXWFongkc4iCwe7w9taVOh4L3okCPYTH4dar5HI9prZBoF9oYu9uLcNMtjlbKq2Yo6cFUiXFAS24p7hOJoX-YZb7AepbI_uCGNLjJ3quNfYzqyQp9/s1600/Altering+wheelchair+pants+3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhcy879HZvmmVuOkp9_vHB_wpdeEENXWFongkc4iCwe7w9taVOh4L3okCPYTH4dar5HI9prZBoF9oYu9uLcNMtjlbKq2Yo6cFUiXFAS24p7hOJoX-YZb7AepbI_uCGNLjJ3quNfYzqyQp9/s1600/Altering+wheelchair+pants+3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDz7yTn_xrD8atU-MwpUtjkVZ0gU4wyBUruB7cesKHbCI7DyUS8p_cmfiz-7H0pE2YTuz5AkrrkRY-BbTMUVONUHu5n9mwHrwrh-5VD92xCfYF7UN8MGEf97BrPz_mKDgkUT7R37uETj21sREqbiqH46tYEnXM10ph-qLjRjaDBU0vGFULsmYQvz_IQQ=s1198" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1198" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDz7yTn_xrD8atU-MwpUtjkVZ0gU4wyBUruB7cesKHbCI7DyUS8p_cmfiz-7H0pE2YTuz5AkrrkRY-BbTMUVONUHu5n9mwHrwrh-5VD92xCfYF7UN8MGEf97BrPz_mKDgkUT7R37uETj21sREqbiqH46tYEnXM10ph-qLjRjaDBU0vGFULsmYQvz_IQQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Adding Plackets:</b></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Materials</b>: </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 pieces of matching/coordinating fabric 4" x (Seated Back Measurement +2"). </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Interfacing approximately the same dimensions. </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Closures - Velcro, magnetic snaps, hooks, separating zipper...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpj9PuOpWtFEHci1QvEpfU_zbhBFmvErY3ZdaOlvbqBD80y-vOi1B2gnnn6KPaGiwggm4qe5KzpYEKmI-TB0UdVbKxmPzN7JOsxStqZ7-yfDXTVN9fpNFDcBTFXfEC37fJyWVw5F78qrJqJaQ4CBqL9xEPTYifJ8QhpPsBCjdvUSaqmyj4WS78MNkTzg=s1197" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1197" data-original-width="1083" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpj9PuOpWtFEHci1QvEpfU_zbhBFmvErY3ZdaOlvbqBD80y-vOi1B2gnnn6KPaGiwggm4qe5KzpYEKmI-TB0UdVbKxmPzN7JOsxStqZ7-yfDXTVN9fpNFDcBTFXfEC37fJyWVw5F78qrJqJaQ4CBqL9xEPTYifJ8QhpPsBCjdvUSaqmyj4WS78MNkTzg=s320" width="290" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
10. Apply interfacing to the WRONG SIDE of both placket pieces. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
11. Fold each placket piece in half (RIGHT SIDEs together). </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
12. With a 1/2" seam allowance, stitch the top and bottom edge of each placket (short sides).</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
13. Turn the placket pieces RIGHT SIDE out and press (you can edgestitch the placket if you'd like it to lay a little flatter. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
14. Apply preferred closures to plackets (velcro, large skirt hooks, magnetic purse snaps... can be modified slightly if you want to use a separating zipper). </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
15. Stitch raw edges of plackets to the raw edge of pants openings. Consider serging, zig-zagging, or covering this seam with seam tape to make it lay flat and prevent the seam from irritating the skin on the hips and buttocks of the person sitting on it all day.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>To Use:</b><br />
While the person is seated or laying down, slide the pant legs up the person's legs and into place (legs will be completely encased in fabric, but the bottom will remain bare).<br />
<b>If the person is in a chair</b>, lean the person slightly forward and slip the back panel between the person's backside and the chair. Secure the back panel on the side using closures.<br />
<b>If the person is laying down</b>, press the back panel against the person's hip. Roll the person onto that hip and keep rolling until you can see the back panel. Smooth the panel flat on the bed and roll the person back toward you until they are flat on their back. Secure the back panel on the side using closures.<br />
<br />
For comfort, and in case of incontinence, a towel or absorbent pad can be placed on the seat under the person. This pad will remain on the bed or in the chair when the person stands or is lifted out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPvufn78iT4L4v_SAf8OvDgdgDhc9j6AzhP-KmjmRx_V8SRAAjnEGlVJPN-0ou5cdtSd2dbeDt6HJD7PII_S_QPaedwGcX2ze1CbroV6lEj9-TC5NweVbT-jTb7seyvtZexqYBp2aRYS3/s1600/lift+with+sling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPvufn78iT4L4v_SAf8OvDgdgDhc9j6AzhP-KmjmRx_V8SRAAjnEGlVJPN-0ou5cdtSd2dbeDt6HJD7PII_S_QPaedwGcX2ze1CbroV6lEj9-TC5NweVbT-jTb7seyvtZexqYBp2aRYS3/s1600/lift+with+sling.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-3860138603729650902014-11-02T20:01:00.000-08:002014-11-02T20:01:17.001-08:00New Custom Bag - Leather Luxe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the bag I designed for the most recent <a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/hummingbird-tote-bag.html" target="_blank">BeTA Trauma Mama annual fund raising auction</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The winner of the auction wanted a simple black and gold bag that people would recognize as being custom. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8vCxcYwXAzwr2AVwsPodiNw7rKHGHZjtaJetykRd9jOqjQwJzyNbwIvCoDzQ0ebIvjfmWEkDKVFTTAdZ_nSoR0wYlcc1enRw-c560Bw4Ee_4gpoTmg4s0icSZ50EveVFlT3nzBSLxoeE/s1600/Linda+bag+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8vCxcYwXAzwr2AVwsPodiNw7rKHGHZjtaJetykRd9jOqjQwJzyNbwIvCoDzQ0ebIvjfmWEkDKVFTTAdZ_nSoR0wYlcc1enRw-c560Bw4Ee_4gpoTmg4s0icSZ50EveVFlT3nzBSLxoeE/s1600/Linda+bag+back.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
The base and top of the bag are real leather as are the gold straps (which were covered with a black strap as the gold looked a little gaudy by itself).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX2lNmT7eRiGTG196w7MTVdrOi5FkLN20vggd2J0Gd6ZL1Droo6CY7MNj7KKb3HQHQSpL0OdSsz9xbQt73EpL74-zCdcr-sNwy1l0I3cgKpAkCRZJvVv6IUYuQIHsRGyja1_he4NDzG7Gq/s1600/Linda+bag+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX2lNmT7eRiGTG196w7MTVdrOi5FkLN20vggd2J0Gd6ZL1Droo6CY7MNj7KKb3HQHQSpL0OdSsz9xbQt73EpL74-zCdcr-sNwy1l0I3cgKpAkCRZJvVv6IUYuQIHsRGyja1_he4NDzG7Gq/s1600/Linda+bag+front.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
The bag zips shut at the top. The inside of the bag has lots of pockets and is made with Ripstop nylon which is easy to wipe clean.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGKqr7j1X30GnMsXCJAbCQnMJ0Bs9wUZK5S-QfHzuipQaXi3IwSDNrzXGr1tq4Th0113HMd4cWUeTPHpcDhvNYt3d8N4omojmN585k_jnx-l51uOxqGkgesAOETXvVZ2EQRRZqWD2VejK/s1600/Linda+bag+inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGKqr7j1X30GnMsXCJAbCQnMJ0Bs9wUZK5S-QfHzuipQaXi3IwSDNrzXGr1tq4Th0113HMd4cWUeTPHpcDhvNYt3d8N4omojmN585k_jnx-l51uOxqGkgesAOETXvVZ2EQRRZqWD2VejK/s1600/Linda+bag+inside.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-87464643202715706632014-09-01T00:48:00.009-07:002022-02-21T11:40:42.896-08:00Open Backed Clothing for Wheelchair/ Lift/ Sling UseI've been designing clothes for my mom as she has progressed through different stages of ALS. I won't be using pictures of my mom out of respect for her privacy and dignity.<br />
<br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As my mom's left arm weakened to the point of immobility, she was unable to dress herself. Unfortunately, her husband, her primary caregiver, has <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essential_tremor" target="_blank">Essential Tremors</a>, and therefore had a lot of difficulty with snaps, buttons, zippers... He is also pretty oblivious to comfort and fit (I remember once he'd accidentally fastened my mother's bra so that the bottom band crossed directly over her breasts. Unfortunately, since she cannot speak, and has less sensitivity on affected parts of her body when I came by in the afternoon, it had been like that all day! Ouch!)</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xJTlzPYlkbF1vJ9BzRiTmbtXly8TfkXiijFA5bjZU-w2A8woA6Ks3beqHptlTQ4KwDlxRgyXRqPEPfSlGQUTTJwhD_rQmoD-vGyy24ugWVe1lC6nzWuLr1QNbHei3ckjlYkvwyjvYCCA/s1600/open+back+drawing.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xJTlzPYlkbF1vJ9BzRiTmbtXly8TfkXiijFA5bjZU-w2A8woA6Ks3beqHptlTQ4KwDlxRgyXRqPEPfSlGQUTTJwhD_rQmoD-vGyy24ugWVe1lC6nzWuLr1QNbHei3ckjlYkvwyjvYCCA/s1600/open+back+drawing.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back opening dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When mom was still using a walker, I made wrap dresses and purchased front-closing bras so that she could be dressed while sitting on the bed. When she switched to the wheelchair full time, we tried switching her tops to back openings with velcro or snaps on the shoulders so that she wouldn't have to lift her arms as much or try to fit things over her neck brace (she was still trying to wear t-shirts - which had to go over her arm brace and her neck brace.). This way the shirt could be pulled up over her arms, and then fastened in back. Here's a link to <a href="https://www.silverts.com/videos/womens-tops-open-back-adaptive" target="_blank"><b>how this works</b></a>. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkEKykWzupTqeEfKGleI7aGsPJL-ZyOt4_FwuJ0mSSxdf0Z6BAsp5B9F2OKatPbXzVRXXPclLG0DF6npnO-KED_k7RzoWjt_d6EbWr1IFkbzoIWbzzD0ikQbFLoeN6cTWqHh1X4GcSzdE/s1600/Tulip+back+back.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkEKykWzupTqeEfKGleI7aGsPJL-ZyOt4_FwuJ0mSSxdf0Z6BAsp5B9F2OKatPbXzVRXXPclLG0DF6npnO-KED_k7RzoWjt_d6EbWr1IFkbzoIWbzzD0ikQbFLoeN6cTWqHh1X4GcSzdE/s1600/Tulip+back+back.jpg" width="148" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption">Tulip shirt back</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/2XRauLuyT2c" width="480"></iframe><div>My mom had lost so much weight that I was able to cut her knit shirts open and overlap them enough in the back for her husband to make it work. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sewing</b></div><div>If you're fairly comfortable at adapting a pattern, then you could easily make something like this yourself by extending the pattern's shoulder on one side so that it would create a facing (I'd interface it) and add snaps or velcro to it. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4DKwQQBigPnmPDlN5rlNAAuH1CgLsNcneaCwjrQgzz_23arHAk893sXNCVJtcLF_U0G370YuDJ0air_MdCXJ06ZyNtfUHhQ26uomFrgJJQNS4f6mf4uQltlwN4FDfmfI5dzb7pR2091N/s2048/Tulip+back+for+wheel+chair.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1686" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4DKwQQBigPnmPDlN5rlNAAuH1CgLsNcneaCwjrQgzz_23arHAk893sXNCVJtcLF_U0G370YuDJ0air_MdCXJ06ZyNtfUHhQ26uomFrgJJQNS4f6mf4uQltlwN4FDfmfI5dzb7pR2091N/s320/Tulip+back+for+wheel+chair.jpg" /></a></div></div><div>This <b><i>free</i></b> <a href="https://www.patternsforpirates.com/product/tulip-tee/" target="_blank"><b>Tulip top pattern</b></a> is designed to be sewn with the tulip hem on either the back or the front. It could probably be easily converted to being able to open it completely (instead of secured at the neckline) and use snaps or velcro at the shoulders.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I think this pattern would also work well with a g-tube/PEG. <b><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2014/08/modified-tops-for-nursing-and-g-tubes.html" target="_blank">Modified Tops for Nursing and G-Tubes</a>.</b></div><div>
<br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSiSDITIuXULRZVvaXKjcB-dTidCHi01fKrp8Nl4nPULr5kv5PmC6ihNkE4m6WCe37EVHa68WwSLZhNI4IdTm8IbS7Zcn69vuCopUd14W3i7zipmtOUogwdbG6035AX9Yg_ncG1lRcphP/s1600/Electric+wheelchair.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSiSDITIuXULRZVvaXKjcB-dTidCHi01fKrp8Nl4nPULr5kv5PmC6ihNkE4m6WCe37EVHa68WwSLZhNI4IdTm8IbS7Zcn69vuCopUd14W3i7zipmtOUogwdbG6035AX9Yg_ncG1lRcphP/s1600/Electric+wheelchair.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Electric wheelchair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once my mom got to the point where she needed to be in a wheelchair all the time to prevent falls. We quickly started discovering issues with using the bathroom. </div><div><br /></div><div>First of all, the wheelchair didn't fit in the tiny little potty room, so someone had to help Mom rise from her wheelchair, then help her balance until she could hold onto a grab bar mounted on the wall. She then shuffled until she was in front of the toilet. We had a second grab bar installed there, and she held on to that for balance. Her ALS had progressed to the point that she only had the use of one hand, and that hand was holding the grab bar, which meant someone else had to drop her pants for her (and help pull them back up when she was done). There was very little dignity to be found in this situation!<br />
<br />
<b><u>Suddenly we needed "open bottom" pants for my mom</u></b>. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_gqqbzM_CZnsc8pDYweJDMeyNsbeLEAERB4-A0R6XBlt5cCdlR09U42rVHHBlvsCi08UHnfqGxIe6jRWv32ahfW9Uxcsd6-7jqm2bO0fKTUU5sZ_28K5WPsVgmKFWmIjwvQa98uLlzAp/s1600/lift+with+sling.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_gqqbzM_CZnsc8pDYweJDMeyNsbeLEAERB4-A0R6XBlt5cCdlR09U42rVHHBlvsCi08UHnfqGxIe6jRWv32ahfW9Uxcsd6-7jqm2bO0fKTUU5sZ_28K5WPsVgmKFWmIjwvQa98uLlzAp/s1600/lift+with+sling.jpg" /></a>As she became less able to support her own weight, we quickly discovered that she needed a lift (including a lift in her spirits!). The problem with lifts is that they lift you out of the wheelchair in a sling and then lower you onto the potty - which is great, except when/how do you lower your pants?! The sling has a circular opening where your bottom "hangs out." A quick bout of research (found an awesome site called <a href="http://www.silverts.com/" target="_blank">Silvert's</a> with some "open bottom options") and we quickly discovered this meant you had to go "commando" so your clothes had to discreetly cover you everywhere, except your bottom.<br />
<br />
That left mom with 2 options.<br />
<br />
One, a tulip-backed dress with a cut-out for the bottom. The person looks fully clothed when you're looking down from above. The sides of the skirt are tucked under the person's legs and the back of the dress goes to the chair seat and stops. We still had to add access to the PEG tube for feeding (see<a href="http://www.brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2014/08/modified-tops-for-nursing-and-g-tubes.html" target="_blank"><b> this post </b></a>for details).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZCfpaxPizdcVQEknB0BhhEW4x4P2mQ6yNyVF7q6igFjlMq68JwApM75jPcr4wclkz9EvGyIMS6up1NIH9-CRIvsCYGXe1uW2N-UAqVFIVzk-R9b1_mBmeGnxL8bsGSKzcC9nyhENOxgW/s1600/open+back+bottom+dress+drawing.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZCfpaxPizdcVQEknB0BhhEW4x4P2mQ6yNyVF7q6igFjlMq68JwApM75jPcr4wclkz9EvGyIMS6up1NIH9-CRIvsCYGXe1uW2N-UAqVFIVzk-R9b1_mBmeGnxL8bsGSKzcC9nyhENOxgW/s1600/open+back+bottom+dress+drawing.jpg" /></a></div>
.Option two was pants, capris, shorts. This was mom's preference, and with the purchase of a pair of Silvert's open-bottom pants and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_BDYW1Q8Q4" target="_blank">this video</a> which showed me how they worked, I thought we were in business! She tried out the pants for a couple of days before I made more, and I'm so glad we waited.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT12z14UklemwXfj8NmSV_DnMaUNMILZ-Q3gCGcC6KB47xJ5q63tBmkuPVaL6AE0VD14lR68s6ys70NUfNvWXww0MkBtUX26nzV8Fsu2wC641JoMRaz18p3namLTBzAmD2m90w5xcQI7i/s1600/silverts+pants+seated.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQT12z14UklemwXfj8NmSV_DnMaUNMILZ-Q3gCGcC6KB47xJ5q63tBmkuPVaL6AE0VD14lR68s6ys70NUfNvWXww0MkBtUX26nzV8Fsu2wC641JoMRaz18p3namLTBzAmD2m90w5xcQI7i/s1600/silverts+pants+seated.jpg" width="167" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step one, while still in a seated <br />
position pull pants up over legs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc_TFAOXAngZIXBbnoXCg6z7bxYwzHv_EQx_Fg9Rq6J0r4v2atPG0g3fqSV92dtk5VZ6jvI9L7GcuQf2cgYQskpqPwSOtW4fokrHWgIuU58hjlpVU7mdars3R_EnP9ziHURtQqVdCx3oFV/s1600/silverts+pants+back+snap.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc_TFAOXAngZIXBbnoXCg6z7bxYwzHv_EQx_Fg9Rq6J0r4v2atPG0g3fqSV92dtk5VZ6jvI9L7GcuQf2cgYQskpqPwSOtW4fokrHWgIuU58hjlpVU7mdars3R_EnP9ziHURtQqVdCx3oFV/s1600/silverts+pants+back+snap.jpg" width="167" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Secure adjustable waistband.<br />
"Flap" will cover hips, but<br />the bottom is exposed when in<br />
seated position.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In theory, these are awesome! In everyday use? Not so much. The crotch seam was sewed so far toward the back that you couldn't easily access the front parts of the body that need "wiping." That seam had to be opened up to allow the slit to come further toward the waist. </div><div><br /></div><div>In theory, the generous amount of fabric in these loose-fitting pants, and the fact that my mom never sits with her knees spread apart, keeps them from gaping open enough to show the opening.<br />
<br />
The worst part? To secure the snaps in the back - already difficult for her caregiver with Essential Tremors, Mom had to lean forward in her chair - which inhibited her breathing. Not wheelchair-friendly at all!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8r0aEu0Z_FjxUj20bSytncBlItBC93ES5aGZmkHyAwUv99tn1VNIG2CBADUr4ek-gSosjfPyVA3Gzr9PedMoTtG3ZSKWxThaZXBXIZgTOnrxG-uwrtazd7akgvGmRmAUjTxhfM7H0pUF7/s1600/silverts+pants+drawing.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8r0aEu0Z_FjxUj20bSytncBlItBC93ES5aGZmkHyAwUv99tn1VNIG2CBADUr4ek-gSosjfPyVA3Gzr9PedMoTtG3ZSKWxThaZXBXIZgTOnrxG-uwrtazd7akgvGmRmAUjTxhfM7H0pUF7/s1600/silverts+pants+drawing.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpltGPFYjcYwLFzDx6Emup3uKZbwToB4dWp8vOCfdnNds5m78tpkmgRWkI5-x_IFyWApVGWCTilRNY7citwq710xcjiKjgCARYBlXGz0GuZXNggIIMH9fkBD9o2e5FDQIAV-YESQa6w0r/s1600/side+zip+shorts.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpltGPFYjcYwLFzDx6Emup3uKZbwToB4dWp8vOCfdnNds5m78tpkmgRWkI5-x_IFyWApVGWCTilRNY7citwq710xcjiKjgCARYBlXGz0GuZXNggIIMH9fkBD9o2e5FDQIAV-YESQa6w0r/s1600/side+zip+shorts.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shifted to side closure instead of center back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So I opened up the left side of the back "flap" and added some velcro strips (could use a separating zipper as well). That way the flap could be slipped behind the person and then secured on the side (much easier than trying to secure it behind their back).<br />
<br />
This worked much better so I altered a pair of her loose-fitting (she's lost about 70lbs on her liquid diet), elastic waistband, knit shorts. Instead of Velcro, I used magnetic purse snaps (my new favorite closure!). It's pretty easy to alter the shorts (although it helped to have matching color fabric for the new flaps needed for the side closure), but I've also drafted a pattern so I can make new ones in any colors I wish.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4mgAaCmaNb1FxSauElrDrjNuQRLOav-hD7PoEI2_MeWELyjpw0gC4pVJOpzQJrne2ScVCMzgqEZimLE5hPSUeG3tQCZIoYk8o_0_k25Jdma3yQNKJk_Do-1XGsJIv6Kk-jhfAnTXNvoT/s1600/Altered+shorts.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4mgAaCmaNb1FxSauElrDrjNuQRLOav-hD7PoEI2_MeWELyjpw0gC4pVJOpzQJrne2ScVCMzgqEZimLE5hPSUeG3tQCZIoYk8o_0_k25Jdma3yQNKJk_Do-1XGsJIv6Kk-jhfAnTXNvoT/s1600/Altered+shorts.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can add more details if anyone is interested in doing any of these projects themselves.<br /><h2>
Here's my updated <a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/making-open-bottom-wheelchair-pants.html" target="_blank"><b>tutorial post</b></a> about altering pants to be open bottom pants.</h2></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9rcjaQE7D7vnUwoGq6ETE0F-InAA0yZnWNEeAQyUnSw7fdCSHBw0JRa4pn94jwkxaigJHqGGm2DqIBc0NnugMQZPZuZ8acZh-kF3m9ockKolp4k85B6dwOpYZ2vUkRpuLG6dJQ8QvYBHtJ-vr6ZRAvA_CKi15mQpOeTew7Mqm6xesJg-iF6FLjQuEpw=s1572" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1496" data-original-width="1572" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9rcjaQE7D7vnUwoGq6ETE0F-InAA0yZnWNEeAQyUnSw7fdCSHBw0JRa4pn94jwkxaigJHqGGm2DqIBc0NnugMQZPZuZ8acZh-kF3m9ockKolp4k85B6dwOpYZ2vUkRpuLG6dJQ8QvYBHtJ-vr6ZRAvA_CKi15mQpOeTew7Mqm6xesJg-iF6FLjQuEpw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br /></div>marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-49156273613147275102014-08-30T00:25:00.003-07:002021-03-25T20:12:50.554-07:00Modified Tops for Nursing and G-TubesI've been designing clothes for my mom as she has progressed through different stages of ALS. I won't be using pictures of my mom out of respect for her privacy and dignity.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhzPrxxObZ3jxAnLaTg4uAEh6fVYfoDYS39nr4ktwXPirFo4iiApufripig4XSqp77JAlJvvXFIvmPQ4U1FDLjCOrUSCOzE5C4GrFboBUeFqpRI7-MqewzRuRhh9zW_jZmEjt17OE4xe5M/s1600/peg+tube.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhzPrxxObZ3jxAnLaTg4uAEh6fVYfoDYS39nr4ktwXPirFo4iiApufripig4XSqp77JAlJvvXFIvmPQ4U1FDLjCOrUSCOzE5C4GrFboBUeFqpRI7-MqewzRuRhh9zW_jZmEjt17OE4xe5M/s1600/peg+tube.jpg" /></a>First, she got a feeding tube, also known as a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). This meant she needed access to the port and the carrier for the tube which is kind of like a fanny pack. Clothing couldn't be tight across the area, and she didn't want to just lift her shirt, because that left her stomach exposed (or worse if she wanted to wear a dress), not to mention that the fabric had to be secured out of the way.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I immediately thought of some of the things I'd made for myself when I was nursing. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxqYDqmecAQfZVJOZHsPMd6Ldg42D5XJyOefFyQaX46VbbHZE3lrMEzMW1e8PCj61z8PIiS_xF5hYQHk38Xfq4GrFAJv90zLh20ZPTAK11GVJVeF6-XWUat9cp8uUvYyxu4ZE-p4FM4BM/s1600/scan0076.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxqYDqmecAQfZVJOZHsPMd6Ldg42D5XJyOefFyQaX46VbbHZE3lrMEzMW1e8PCj61z8PIiS_xF5hYQHk38Xfq4GrFAJv90zLh20ZPTAK11GVJVeF6-XWUat9cp8uUvYyxu4ZE-p4FM4BM/s1600/scan0076.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric overlaps and secures with Velcro</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1fGC0_j4TKoywowt6GQekNl-YATR6LCPrMAGpKu0TqR_vRPscmaCtNyvKCrYSAUQPmlcHwCJAF2yRy9comVwnobFGUjtU2Yl-VtmtoMUiiqoBZ9OsLHqSstDNSEvaSv_FCeSWtn5SIVK0/s1600/scan0075.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1fGC0_j4TKoywowt6GQekNl-YATR6LCPrMAGpKu0TqR_vRPscmaCtNyvKCrYSAUQPmlcHwCJAF2yRy9comVwnobFGUjtU2Yl-VtmtoMUiiqoBZ9OsLHqSstDNSEvaSv_FCeSWtn5SIVK0/s1600/scan0075.jpg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretchy fabric is pulled out of<br />
the way for easy access.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC__b8pE8Ow5I_aRiC4XiSOrnCo9FGi57kpLCo3xU7z-ryT4_Ny7E-eVe738fzYL8YVENewrA_rVt8RopQmmMJVLxGKE5J48nlr8synjbhIguxRWcEj-gGECfwH-PcNLh86YjJBRLb91d2/s1600/nursing+top+design.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC__b8pE8Ow5I_aRiC4XiSOrnCo9FGi57kpLCo3xU7z-ryT4_Ny7E-eVe738fzYL8YVENewrA_rVt8RopQmmMJVLxGKE5J48nlr8synjbhIguxRWcEj-gGECfwH-PcNLh86YjJBRLb91d2/s1600/nursing+top+design.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQYlV55ecXJmQz4ALXAracWfTgQrwuD6oXzQnbFdMNKaPko7EgxtFNXDb6aTyAbOj5KJ5O4XYhLF01JhN_YRXFDtcDvc224gEVU8L1oH2bowcMqRgw3pT-ntvOFOcpKJ4jF1nvLHnukCQ/s1600/Nursing+top+design+2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQYlV55ecXJmQz4ALXAracWfTgQrwuD6oXzQnbFdMNKaPko7EgxtFNXDb6aTyAbOj5KJ5O4XYhLF01JhN_YRXFDtcDvc224gEVU8L1oH2bowcMqRgw3pT-ntvOFOcpKJ4jF1nvLHnukCQ/s1600/Nursing+top+design+2.jpg" width="200" /></a>A similar concept with a knit fabric. No need for Velcro because the fabric was overlapped more since it was stretchy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRZM8W9pnSOhrcU_a76jBaNso-Afvtu3lq6E49bfGIMqfKKDvhbAnFg_gv-HDH5ZW0JHzwOoVJ4qh_QBNmM-N_RuSDbdtfhBB2sYn6ZqlG7KOKf4yya60ASisXaFeWJSlQds39EqquBsx/s1600/Nursing+top.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRZM8W9pnSOhrcU_a76jBaNso-Afvtu3lq6E49bfGIMqfKKDvhbAnFg_gv-HDH5ZW0JHzwOoVJ4qh_QBNmM-N_RuSDbdtfhBB2sYn6ZqlG7KOKf4yya60ASisXaFeWJSlQds39EqquBsx/s1600/Nursing+top.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If not sitting up straight, the shirt gapes open but the fabric overlap prevents skin from showing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0vkbjzvORzDZEo6K187HdvHkDnmfaz_WAMQeRT49oXmZwxmTqQvP3ClPZKogFMBuFU6hq6-iE8LGQoaGW0TTgCvoD26rBbedh_-HdLAhnR0CbBEIXJR0d8ZtIUFea4sLv23lv1w2fIit/s1600/13_10+teal+wrap+dress.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Butterick B5101" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0vkbjzvORzDZEo6K187HdvHkDnmfaz_WAMQeRT49oXmZwxmTqQvP3ClPZKogFMBuFU6hq6-iE8LGQoaGW0TTgCvoD26rBbedh_-HdLAhnR0CbBEIXJR0d8ZtIUFea4sLv23lv1w2fIit/w246-h320/13_10+teal+wrap+dress.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">I also began purchasing <br />"arthritis bras" and <br />altering her bras to <br />make them open in the front.</i><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
She was actually fairly happy with t-shirts on a daily basis but wanted some nicer dresses for church. She'd also begun having issues with the use of her left hand so needed clothing that was easy to put on and take off (no awkward back zippers!). <br />
<br />
Voila! The wrap dress!</div><div><i>{pattern Butterick B5101}</i><br />
<br />
Next problem - if you untie a wrap dress, it drapes open like a bathrobe and once again shows everything. To fix this, instead of the under panel being secured only at the waist, I extended the under panel to cover the upper portion of the body as well.<br />
<br />
The under panel was secured to the upper shoulder with Velcro to prevent it from sagging and gaping. A long slit in the under panel to accommodate the PEG/ feeding tube and we were done!<br />
<br />
The wrap part of the dress had a little Velcro to make sure that it stayed in place and covered the feeding tube slit. The wrap dress pattern called for a tie at the waist but this was difficult for both my mother and her caretaker to tie and in her wheelchair, she didn't need it.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzitz9cf_YEsaEiMcVXWN86RVB2ExTb1ggQi238BPfkmEdYEg1bLJNfh1zWSt7XxnDnFAsD8N5yeZ3Re8qMQ1GXpDQTpkOqG8oHE3047Sxx5MDgvpZDPC88CLXTwTmIfQwSboXxzb-K0u/s1600/G-tube+wrap+dress.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzitz9cf_YEsaEiMcVXWN86RVB2ExTb1ggQi238BPfkmEdYEg1bLJNfh1zWSt7XxnDnFAsD8N5yeZ3Re8qMQ1GXpDQTpkOqG8oHE3047Sxx5MDgvpZDPC88CLXTwTmIfQwSboXxzb-K0u/s1600/G-tube+wrap+dress.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://contestimg.wish.com/api/webimage/58c670f82e65b24edf92bcd5-large.jpg?cache_buster=a3bfc8992e1d1077bb8694f8506fb990" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="10PCS/5Pairs Magnetic Clasp Purse Snaps Closures Sewing Button Bag ..." border="0" height="194" src="https://contestimg.wish.com/api/webimage/58c670f82e65b24edf92bcd5-large.jpg?cache_buster=a3bfc8992e1d1077bb8694f8506fb990" width="200" /></a><b></b><br />
<b><b><br /></b></b>
<b>Magnetic Purse Snaps</b><br />
Later, we started using magnetic purse snaps for closures instead of Velcro. It made things much easier to open and close without worrying that the Velcro wasn't securely caught or was twisted/forcing the material to lay crookedly.<br />
<br />
We used the heavy half rivet closures because that was all I could find but now it looks like they have lighter-weight sew-on options.</div><div> <img alt="100 50 10 Sets Thin Magnetic Purse Snaps Closures 14mm 9/16 ..." height="200" src="https://imgs.inkfrog.com/pix/digitide/magnetic_snap_title_14mm.jpg" width="200" /><br /><br />
Until the next issue - Being dressed by caretakers and making accommodations for being in a wheelchair!</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2014/09/open-bottom-pants-for-wheelchair-lift.html" style="background-color: white; color: #0085e4; text-decoration-line: none;">Open Back Clothing for Wheelchairs/Lifts</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/making-open-bottom-wheelchair-pants.html" style="background-color: white; color: #0085e4; text-decoration-line: none;">Making Wheelchair/Lift Pants</a></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-31365575385910461392013-12-28T17:48:00.002-08:002013-12-28T17:48:56.349-08:00Baby got Bling!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujHQwmSH3g3e6Xoi726BqiZYFUAjbMo8qZngXysiZmF9ddibi2Li7C-45eQgS6a7SKuAwvLzlP22nZTHz1pdHIZ0hqSn2km_tgi5-7jJWB3i4_0nTyEn603vctTMKM9qRSKSnfK_jBMoz/s1600/13_12+H+bling+dress+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujHQwmSH3g3e6Xoi726BqiZYFUAjbMo8qZngXysiZmF9ddibi2Li7C-45eQgS6a7SKuAwvLzlP22nZTHz1pdHIZ0hqSn2km_tgi5-7jJWB3i4_0nTyEn603vctTMKM9qRSKSnfK_jBMoz/s640/13_12+H+bling+dress+close.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPp4jxGG_3u7zaqOAVhOmcj0UeE5rEQB0Zv1sODCTU9V3RPcjyppxbdc7H9nIxDkmB1dLItP5palDfi53dwdkAkPiL9FH3j5IwketjYYwC-NHq9e9uH5on8PjALYSqPu1N7Qr1h29HeXJI/s1600/2013+H+inspiration+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPp4jxGG_3u7zaqOAVhOmcj0UeE5rEQB0Zv1sODCTU9V3RPcjyppxbdc7H9nIxDkmB1dLItP5palDfi53dwdkAkPiL9FH3j5IwketjYYwC-NHq9e9uH5on8PjALYSqPu1N7Qr1h29HeXJI/s320/2013+H+inspiration+dress.jpg" width="212" /></a>It may not be obvious in the picture, but this dress is covered in "rhinestone" bling! My oldest daughter was inspired by this <a href="http://www.sarah-houston.com/gallery/images/Maternity/dress4a.jpg" target="_blank">rhinestone covered chiffon gown</a>. </div>
<br />
I recently took an online class called Fast Track Fitting by Joi Mahon on Craftsy.com, which creates perfectly fit basic pattern pieces based on detailed measurements. I really like the class and used the muslin it made to create a cover for my dress form that can be used over and over again for each individual client<br />
<br />
For this dress I drafted the bodice and lining by adapting the basic patterns created by the Fast Track Fitting pattern. The skirt is simply multiple layers of tulle gathered and attached to the bodice. Trimming the bodice is double strands of the "rhinestones" in an optical illusion of waist definition. Draped from the waistline of the skirt is a rhinestone mesh separated into single strands that hang loose and move with the skirt. The necklace is made from a rhinestone piece of trim held by two "rhinestone" strands.<br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Pattern Description: </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">- A satin and tulle cocktail dress with "rhinestone" trim and drape.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Pattern Sizing:</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Custom fit using techniques from "Fast Track Fitting by Joi Mahon on Craftsy.com" for a curvy apple figure with a 34D bust.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> This dress was only intended to be loosely based on the inspiration dress. It did look like the sketch.</span><div>
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Were the instructions easy to follow?</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> There were no instructions for this simple dress!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> The "rhinestone" mesh had to be cut into individual strands and hand sewn to the bodice and waist. It was a lot of work!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkpWOJdX9XvS62uAC-aLumflqlATMaz1q7ynbvR0hS9AsAJDUk3sHZwcDxXbqRUcAVtIi0u6yxrWLhHrisnozI1UpBj82CgdnxsFN4Kem4mkCBKiEaF6ph4Sc6fku6ZPj9gaQPzyw5G70/s1600/rhinestone+mesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: right; color: #4b4b4b; float: right; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkpWOJdX9XvS62uAC-aLumflqlATMaz1q7ynbvR0hS9AsAJDUk3sHZwcDxXbqRUcAVtIi0u6yxrWLhHrisnozI1UpBj82CgdnxsFN4Kem4mkCBKiEaF6ph4Sc6fku6ZPj9gaQPzyw5G70/s320/rhinestone+mesh.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; border: 1px solid rgb(225, 225, 225); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Fabric Used:</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> White satin for the bodice, nylon lining material and "rhinestone" mesh from the home decorating department.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> This was a simple dress, flattering to the client. I will probably make a similar silhouette multiple times for this particular client. </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Conclusion: </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">This dress was designed for family Christmas pictures, and hopefully prom, but ultimately to wear to my 20th wedding anniversary party. This daughter loves all the shiny bling!</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1071385987"></span><span id="goog_1071385988"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="color: #4b4b4b; text-decoration: none;"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-89232849864509383212013-12-27T23:30:00.001-08:002013-12-28T00:40:30.108-08:00Chiffon Cocktail Dress adapted from RTW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_J0xu3_jRVXTlCpoAs0bzxpmrIqdkspa335MvGhyphenhyphen4REpeDC4E0xqEsFE9HJFUNn08GmT3FBw74QCbxmYV5puj7Sm_IhJw3gZe92xckc-25tFm1NM0Bm-aRFFcDsHJG0nIx02_XNJL2Ua/s1600/2013K+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_J0xu3_jRVXTlCpoAs0bzxpmrIqdkspa335MvGhyphenhyphen4REpeDC4E0xqEsFE9HJFUNn08GmT3FBw74QCbxmYV5puj7Sm_IhJw3gZe92xckc-25tFm1NM0Bm-aRFFcDsHJG0nIx02_XNJL2Ua/s640/2013K+wedding.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsirk5hi1gM_CTWHH6IGpQOQZJbBHd3NivIDaaMWYaZksmzT5BfVtYXF0V1CJt3QXJrtub79WT5qgIcpW-rOeRmDyF0LUWCSqOniPDbFsdrezUe1HbsIRGSHj-ZzBo0uTaHjtU5_U4vJU/s320/2013+K+inspiration+dress.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="181" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bellanovaaustin.com/proddetail.php?prod=LaFemme_18049#" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;" target="_blank">I</a>nspiration dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/ContestGallery.pl?ContestID=196" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Read more about this contest"><img alt="Cocktail Outfit Contest" border="0" src="http://images.patternreview.com/siteimages/contest/2013/cocktail_ientered_150px.png" /></a><br />
<br />
My youngest daughter tried on this dress --><br />
and instantly fell in love. It was very expensive (about $300), but my main concern was how much leg showed on her 6 foot tall frame (she's obviously taller than this model because it almost showed her panties!). She especially loved how it fit her elongated hourglass figure by accommodating her (substantial) bust, clinging to her tiny ribs and flaring over her hips. She also asked that the hemlines in front look a little more blended and wanted a little bling added (like this other version of the dress that we found on the website). We also created a necklace to draw the eye from her decolletage to her pretty face!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9o9I3PPrNilClGLvpCRaBv-aHbkXhK2-N8VuaidKd-cFNlA0VHcVLlmsMcyFQifH_yoQlU1ETr9KhA_H3fKSI6omfEpzf9YVDzR5V5agtolhe-_QS6noA3Serhzk68j9fZcLDjrZ5sUx/s1600/2013+K+inspiration+dress+bling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9o9I3PPrNilClGLvpCRaBv-aHbkXhK2-N8VuaidKd-cFNlA0VHcVLlmsMcyFQifH_yoQlU1ETr9KhA_H3fKSI6omfEpzf9YVDzR5V5agtolhe-_QS6noA3Serhzk68j9fZcLDjrZ5sUx/s320/2013+K+inspiration+dress+bling.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bellanovaaustin.com/proddetail.php?prod=LaFemme_15033" style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">http://www.bellanovaaustin.com/proddetail.php?prod=LaFemme_15033</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I looked everywhere for a pattern, since I'd never worked with a pattern with this particular fit and drape. I finally stopped procrastinating, took a deep breath and drafted my own pattern using some techniques I'd learned in an online class called Fast Track Fitting by Joi Mahon on Craftsy.com, which created perfectly fit pattern pieces based on detailed measurements. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern Description: </b> - A hi-low cocktail dress in multi-layered chiffon with rhinestone details.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b> Custom fit using techniques from "Fast Track Fitting by Joi Mahon on Craftsy.com" for a 6 foot tall elongated hourglass figure with a 34DD bra size.<br />
<br />
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> This was an adaptation of RTW <a href="http://www.bellanovaaustin.com/proddetail.php?prod=LaFemme_18049" target="_blank">LaFemme 18049</a> I believe it looks a lot like the original with the exception of a few requested modifications. I wish you could see this dress in motion. We didn't have a fancy wind machine like the RTW models!<br />
<br />
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> There were no instructions for this complicated dress!<br />
<br />
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I really struggled to get this dress to cling to the ribs and still flare over the hips without using any darts and very few seams. The top layer was bias cut, but the fabric wasn't wide enough to do the same for the rest of the layers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkpWOJdX9XvS62uAC-aLumflqlATMaz1q7ynbvR0hS9AsAJDUk3sHZwcDxXbqRUcAVtIi0u6yxrWLhHrisnozI1UpBj82CgdnxsFN4Kem4mkCBKiEaF6ph4Sc6fku6ZPj9gaQPzyw5G70/s1600/rhinestone+mesh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkpWOJdX9XvS62uAC-aLumflqlATMaz1q7ynbvR0hS9AsAJDUk3sHZwcDxXbqRUcAVtIi0u6yxrWLhHrisnozI1UpBj82CgdnxsFN4Kem4mkCBKiEaF6ph4Sc6fku6ZPj9gaQPzyw5G70/s320/rhinestone+mesh.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Fabric Used:</b> Fabric from my stash, in this case Nylon chiffon drapery fabric! Yes, this is another dress I stole from our <a href="http://www.brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2012/10/getting-to-perfect-dress.html" target="_blank">family room curtains</a>. "Rhinestone" mesh for the trim and necklace.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> The original RTW dress was waaay too short in front for this 6 foot tall girl. She also wanted the hemlines in front to look a little more blended and wanted a little bling added (like <a href="http://www.bellanovaaustin.com/proddetail.php?prod=LaFemme_15033" target="_blank">another variation</a> of the dress on the website ).<br />
<br />
<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b> I actually would make this dress again. Once I got over being intimidated by all the layers and how form-fitting the dress needed to be, and actually started on the construction, it turned out beautifully, and my incredibly picky client loved it!<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: </b> I made this dress for my youngest daughter, who is a total fashion diva, to wear for family Christmas pictures, and hopefully prom, but ultimately to wear to my 20th wedding anniversary party. Over the years I've made a lot of dresses for this daughter, and she has never been totally happy with them... until this one! I tried a lot of new fabrics and techniques on this dress and I am proud of how this dress turned out.
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1071385987"></span><span id="goog_1071385988"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-73043925163406794522013-12-23T22:49:00.001-08:002013-12-28T00:34:59.938-08:0020th wedding anniversary<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmW97c_o5KLIyOA-JkhlGwVfMjpp6JJtc8FTzHh41gmygJyRiwX34OZ3IuM15pfjhetpa9MEyxyMqxggZOELgHuSt6HUHkMdiV_POb4POnrWv2iI16ErqtOIX0H86ptCJwcgj0CcAQhwi/s1600/scan0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmW97c_o5KLIyOA-JkhlGwVfMjpp6JJtc8FTzHh41gmygJyRiwX34OZ3IuM15pfjhetpa9MEyxyMqxggZOELgHuSt6HUHkMdiV_POb4POnrWv2iI16ErqtOIX0H86ptCJwcgj0CcAQhwi/s320/scan0011.jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1994 Original Wedding Dress </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My original wedding dress, from 1994. Custom sewn by me, with all hand beaded lace, including the hem and train upon which was appliqued 8" deep, hand- sequined and pearled lace.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7uthbvwkWxP8YfrsokYN-2qz4YvTiBSU1bzBDC6YP1VmfHWu-Duh-_X-EctwPw3AKAP63OrV6bPu9U1Vw3awJrDc5qvwkWdHPxJgXCLNVnqUTM9g8MXbTtzC0kVxR6fh8JdyZk3ao2Lm/s1600/2013+M+inspiration+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7uthbvwkWxP8YfrsokYN-2qz4YvTiBSU1bzBDC6YP1VmfHWu-Duh-_X-EctwPw3AKAP63OrV6bPu9U1Vw3awJrDc5qvwkWdHPxJgXCLNVnqUTM9g8MXbTtzC0kVxR6fh8JdyZk3ao2Lm/s320/2013+M+inspiration+dress.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspiration Dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The modern 20th wedding anniversary gift is platinum. I wanted to wear a wedding dress for my anniversary party, but instead of white, I chose to wear a silver (platinum!) dress. I tried on many dresses in my search for an inspiration. This side draped dress was close to the preferred silhouette. In my fabric stash, I found a pale silver fabric to pair with some white chiffon.<br />
<br />
Recently I took a class called Fast Track Fitting by Joi Mahon on <a href="http://craftsy.com/">Craftsy.com</a>. I really liked this technique of creating and altering patterns based on detailed measurements, and used it as the basis for this dress and cocktail dresses for my daughters (future posts). <br />
<br />
The final results. A side draped dress with a sweetheart neckline. Rhinestones follow the drape, leading to a chiffon inset (in person the rhinestones stand out significantly more dramatically). The necklace was made from the same rhinestones as the dress. (More details about the rhinestones in a later post).<br />
<br />
Due to fabric limitations, the dress was not quite as full as originally planned. Hopefully I'll lose a few pounds before the actual anniversary which will add a little more draping. (I'll also not be sewing right up to the time the photo was taken, so I'll have time to iron!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGKCJPI0L-zp-ax9Ropx8_YaUC8R6EdNrrsRY4Kna9fRyRPfGeX_yC6oHoVN5NRAxO88zeJnhhm7SSpOEAg4q7H3Tfxcnc818pMoYB0Nod-7-eIUVO24k4QG4PExdKv-Q2mQTHOsGSDliy/s1600/13_12+M+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGKCJPI0L-zp-ax9Ropx8_YaUC8R6EdNrrsRY4Kna9fRyRPfGeX_yC6oHoVN5NRAxO88zeJnhhm7SSpOEAg4q7H3Tfxcnc818pMoYB0Nod-7-eIUVO24k4QG4PExdKv-Q2mQTHOsGSDliy/s640/13_12+M+wedding.jpg" width="382" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final Version!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-46296133883969895482013-10-30T13:33:00.001-07:002021-02-09T18:01:51.868-08:00Corset - Lingerie contest - Vogue 9273<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/ContestGallery.pl?ContestID=193" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank" title="Read more about this contest"><img alt="Lingerie Challenge Contest 2013" border="0" src="http://images.patternreview.com/siteimages/contest/2013/lingerie_ientered_200px.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdS4Kjw8x_yr83RT2yZl0mI52EmRGrosBMs6S7rkBreV7BefEBHeYzBFDezcHDcm6COWuIfWlY9fH8x2YW6OL3pz87BAevPOgKlPELxTNkt6Pi35bWT7aUpmHAvEonbRahiowJ6uT1d6o/s1600/vogue+9273.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdS4Kjw8x_yr83RT2yZl0mI52EmRGrosBMs6S7rkBreV7BefEBHeYzBFDezcHDcm6COWuIfWlY9fH8x2YW6OL3pz87BAevPOgKlPELxTNkt6Pi35bWT7aUpmHAvEonbRahiowJ6uT1d6o/s1600/vogue+9273.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Pattern Description: Vogue 9273 </b>Lined top has princess seams. A: front zipper. I modified this pattern so extensively I'm not sure you can still say it's this pattern.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b> 14-16-18 - Modified for a 36GG cup!<br />
<br />
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Only superficially. I changed the cup dramatically and extended the torso to a long-line princess waist.<br />
<br />
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> Honestly, I never looked at them.<br />
<br />
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b>
* In order to fit correctly it NEEDS an underwire (I made this pattern once before), and it still didn't fit flat to the ribs in front.
* The zipper/buttons in front are pretty far apart which shifted part of my breasts into my armpits!<br />
<br />
<b>Fabric Used:</b> Sheer ivory polyester chiffon. Made a previous version with red vinyl - not comfy!<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li> Self-drafted bra cups from one of my bras. </li>
<li> Added boning since I didn't have any extra bra underwires (Next time, I will invest in underwires!). </li>
<li> Extended waist to a long-line (like B) that came to a point in front (like C) and in back. </li>
<li> Extended top edge of sides and back to provide more support for cups. </li>
<li> Added elastic to top edge. </li>
<li> Added self-binding to bottom edge. </li>
<li> Used heavy duty zip ties for boning - used a modified version of a french seam (similar to a jean side seam) to encase them between the fabric and "lining" (both layers are the same sheer fabric).</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3K7GR2lyUbCxG4eiyshUgKxExSWzNTaDhv0Uoxbu5nOqtMNp4LXqI1j_jpnm6bCyWZ58Qa_252cfp5EJJGKY1HShOilthHfmJ3N3y63UvF54kVNvdOt-Jxe6H2pl3w9gSuqmsmeoUWid/s1600/cable+ties.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3K7GR2lyUbCxG4eiyshUgKxExSWzNTaDhv0Uoxbu5nOqtMNp4LXqI1j_jpnm6bCyWZ58Qa_252cfp5EJJGKY1HShOilthHfmJ3N3y63UvF54kVNvdOt-Jxe6H2pl3w9gSuqmsmeoUWid/s320/cable+ties.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b> It's a pretty pattern and I love the corset styling. I'll probably tweak it and try it again.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: </b>I really want a pretty corset and this is a fun pattern - I just wish it weren't so hard to modify to get the cups right!<br />
<br />
Not modeling this one as it is totally sheer (you can see the bra pads I used to try to make the mannequin look more like my measurements!)!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmgnJvJYbDyLuY_dV3z5GsrXnK4Cx88IZ9ueGPPjhqLVnpAvKmQYLuJ6ksQb8wAjFxBFaPTyIY4twarJHXXT1nrVJbluWUkz1W_dobTDXhQfNw8l7DhnJ5NBZ0K95SX22b9PFJkOk-bH6/s1600/ivory+bustier.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmgnJvJYbDyLuY_dV3z5GsrXnK4Cx88IZ9ueGPPjhqLVnpAvKmQYLuJ6ksQb8wAjFxBFaPTyIY4twarJHXXT1nrVJbluWUkz1W_dobTDXhQfNw8l7DhnJ5NBZ0K95SX22b9PFJkOk-bH6/s320/ivory+bustier.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Actually, I'm not modeling either one, as my cups runneth over in the red vinyl!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Obviously, the mannequin is not set up for my measurements!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tmSH-apSAthd0FADaoMfRugN1OlT6QrS-FEDFF19I_WDeml17JXlX3UNyi6AtiRo3IJFjQ_dQBFc5JpIBUQAFatqdMT9uf2gdxBCQM_MpgwbflwOs7ca5EoBFyVKXp2IPfX8dXLFeuKo/s1600/red+corset+back.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tmSH-apSAthd0FADaoMfRugN1OlT6QrS-FEDFF19I_WDeml17JXlX3UNyi6AtiRo3IJFjQ_dQBFc5JpIBUQAFatqdMT9uf2gdxBCQM_MpgwbflwOs7ca5EoBFyVKXp2IPfX8dXLFeuKo/s320/red+corset+back.jpg" width="147" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMnq-4iyfZAZZYYzHLyZYQSPjvHjUwb_PHUp9jACnHHSaVbjJykJlGG4Fxe7hhuzhEs7Cw7yOSZSVgQBaILHuEFTtVPLmVF3RwmNd4kBM_swi6N6ZHGXv33KYaaWGBdt4PSTuOHuEQBnq/s1600/red+corset+front.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOMnq-4iyfZAZZYYzHLyZYQSPjvHjUwb_PHUp9jACnHHSaVbjJykJlGG4Fxe7hhuzhEs7Cw7yOSZSVgQBaILHuEFTtVPLmVF3RwmNd4kBM_swi6N6ZHGXv33KYaaWGBdt4PSTuOHuEQBnq/s320/red+corset+front.jpg" width="262" /></a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was never able to get the cups to look right in the pleather (they looked like weird Kermit the Muppet faces). So, I came up with what I think is a clever alternative. I appliqued a Wonder Woman symbol across the chest and made it into a Wonder Woman costume (after Wonder Woman had given birth and breastfed a couple of kids, gotten older, and gained a "few" pounds). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyMSRYKZD3RSC5j9RaWGMT_QAby4RVeTNtH20QNdlpY5jd9ISaZvVX34lUbJ_0yJBjDnIal9V2blSfr2McejKHaJIFlyEnx7hmu7JK6ibxrM1VkTr3KHLxhBQDIa05F4VqMxWOrFviFOx/s2048/16_10WWcostume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyMSRYKZD3RSC5j9RaWGMT_QAby4RVeTNtH20QNdlpY5jd9ISaZvVX34lUbJ_0yJBjDnIal9V2blSfr2McejKHaJIFlyEnx7hmu7JK6ibxrM1VkTr3KHLxhBQDIa05F4VqMxWOrFviFOx/s320/16_10WWcostume.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-14561461260792068352013-10-26T14:41:00.000-07:002016-12-19T06:31:17.256-08:00New Bags!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I've been designing<a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/hummingbird-tote-bag.html" target="_blank"> custom bags</a> for awhile now, but keep forgetting to show you guys!<br />
<br />
This cute little bag was purchased by the winner of the Trauma Mama auction. She requested a smaller purse in bright colors, especially greens and purples, and loved elephants, monkeys and <span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold; line-height: 16px;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloisonn%C3%A9" target="_blank">Cloisonné</a></span>. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKffvtPfJD4w3Ev9_18xLlMgowRBUP-nmFP43fmqBJ69vjMi9G4G_qgc0okfIKTtBspVgM-_oE0hQqzIYRTuAnWxSOVvNy4mL1bnW_dGN9TwyTgUHBwdLAMGx5ZllIjFocvdqdbkZ_GMs/s1600/elephant+purse+front+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKffvtPfJD4w3Ev9_18xLlMgowRBUP-nmFP43fmqBJ69vjMi9G4G_qgc0okfIKTtBspVgM-_oE0hQqzIYRTuAnWxSOVvNy4mL1bnW_dGN9TwyTgUHBwdLAMGx5ZllIjFocvdqdbkZ_GMs/s320/elephant+purse+front+(2).JPG" width="242" /></a>The elephants' ears can flap and the lavender elephant's trunk is free standing. The inside is lined with pockets.<br />
<br />
The back of the purse is a sunset with gold stitching. The strap is adjustable.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdwLm81tg0Z3HmU2QUw6x2jT2neucubZ-HxtkmrWngCZBxmlvOHUA6As7GZU1B-gcIL3RKHzluFYz5Fq6BgC371YydmMvCWLg7XqaH5JUxPl5Ff21GoD_HKzdoSiK4r4h3Qs43RTXxcXU/s1600/Elephant+purse+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdwLm81tg0Z3HmU2QUw6x2jT2neucubZ-HxtkmrWngCZBxmlvOHUA6As7GZU1B-gcIL3RKHzluFYz5Fq6BgC371YydmMvCWLg7XqaH5JUxPl5Ff21GoD_HKzdoSiK4r4h3Qs43RTXxcXU/s320/Elephant+purse+close.JPG" width="274" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTU4Obm97dmRY_jEgGWuROE4cbNCM3QeSFrzywK9gs4tmOAg9dzr36jUOnjxZ5fer81PPGYEjoXh_37VTDos92YrC_7Ho_peNqdQLf7eMJneOuWp_Sqo4sqeCpSeFdXRops8gISBSzEodt/s1600/elephant+purse+back+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTU4Obm97dmRY_jEgGWuROE4cbNCM3QeSFrzywK9gs4tmOAg9dzr36jUOnjxZ5fer81PPGYEjoXh_37VTDos92YrC_7Ho_peNqdQLf7eMJneOuWp_Sqo4sqeCpSeFdXRops8gISBSzEodt/s320/elephant+purse+back+(2).JPG" width="152" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQdwLm81tg0Z3HmU2QUw6x2jT2neucubZ-HxtkmrWngCZBxmlvOHUA6As7GZU1B-gcIL3RKHzluFYz5Fq6BgC371YydmMvCWLg7XqaH5JUxPl5Ff21GoD_HKzdoSiK4r4h3Qs43RTXxcXU/s1600/Elephant+purse+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh51dIiKo2VV3JTSiDWHqLbe00tSmQEo0GjEUYvOOL9hAKW34flz0t0acOGjspK8sB31CX_7JdNQfCeULqafjVQxeM03cGalhgobcNyX7C58mD1QWcofNVcNFPmrLpSjiDzO11oRh0L-7ye/s1600/elephant+purse+back+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh51dIiKo2VV3JTSiDWHqLbe00tSmQEo0GjEUYvOOL9hAKW34flz0t0acOGjspK8sB31CX_7JdNQfCeULqafjVQxeM03cGalhgobcNyX7C58mD1QWcofNVcNFPmrLpSjiDzO11oRh0L-7ye/s320/elephant+purse+back+close.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This purse is one I designed for myself! I love the bright colors and that it's big enough to hold my design book! I've been stopped frequently by people asking where I got it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsGa1SyEPaA2ZmgQ0a5IUxJULkveb_BgKAsfZ8kpK6rEOLiYE-KXWyPf-Nu0TaQ3tISOPlY0VU9tRMR3ny3Wyk6YmGW0fe3QgYxTQj7HwzjhP7DIUVpF43U4YVPwOjultfjSb4OjFeFFG/s1600/My+purse+inside+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsGa1SyEPaA2ZmgQ0a5IUxJULkveb_BgKAsfZ8kpK6rEOLiYE-KXWyPf-Nu0TaQ3tISOPlY0VU9tRMR3ny3Wyk6YmGW0fe3QgYxTQj7HwzjhP7DIUVpF43U4YVPwOjultfjSb4OjFeFFG/s320/My+purse+inside+close.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9tGCDmGTSa32OdSlPdCRVuvRVWMbBWh_WOBHgrAPTUuyc15owuDOCAQgpcwIws0zmT10SlQIIdhW82g_VWN2FuFsyyNHM-sf-MzAArumEpe8pSYJ0h_OJZPWw2F5og1Jp7nVIoY41Qlb/s1600/My+purse+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9tGCDmGTSa32OdSlPdCRVuvRVWMbBWh_WOBHgrAPTUuyc15owuDOCAQgpcwIws0zmT10SlQIIdhW82g_VWN2FuFsyyNHM-sf-MzAArumEpe8pSYJ0h_OJZPWw2F5og1Jp7nVIoY41Qlb/s320/My+purse+close+up.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The inside is lined with a red vinyl that gives it some body. The outside is a decorator fabric with extra circles embroidered on. The strap is decorated with abacus beads! Inside is a self designed "wallet" with 8 pockets (4 on each side) for all the cards I own (insurance cards, loyalty cards, business cards... all labeled). </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
****<br />
<br />
This wristlet was designed to coordinate with a custom, one-of-a-kind evening gown. It was made from scraps of beautiful, Chinese vintage silk, a family heirloom. The gown had an Asian-inspired sleeveless tunic in the silk and coordinating floor-length flowy skirt in layers of sapphire blue chiffon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvtsbQGKRvphp4271xVF6Wp9zCs8HuF_oA_g9CwmyNG_FxRJb5sY4jxA7gRRIHfOuWtlxCqjzypxv_ImSel_AxMByZmNuwuCPGeEu-pIO5y-HkLLPuf9PYhOarxH5CWC6BUD8eoaA4VT3/s1600/VintageSilkBag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvtsbQGKRvphp4271xVF6Wp9zCs8HuF_oA_g9CwmyNG_FxRJb5sY4jxA7gRRIHfOuWtlxCqjzypxv_ImSel_AxMByZmNuwuCPGeEu-pIO5y-HkLLPuf9PYhOarxH5CWC6BUD8eoaA4VT3/s320/VintageSilkBag.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage silk from China</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://www.thirtyonegifts.com/" target="_blank">Thirty One Bags</a> used to carry a "Skirt Purse," this was a cool purse with a removable outside cover. The bag stayed the same, but you could switch out the cover. This client loved the color green. That was all the direction I was given! Here's the bag with 2 different skirts.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7SL9nXkJOiEEGtDCM3Qv9qsjrrSW-x7T6LYVS90OM2lufIONlURDqlWPzvBdHwIFh11NA0svkZMNn1FU7LIle4-TV8I8KKz_rGeRY1ezMMFfI_r7qP1Cvj4o2Z7J2d3Pss0J-M0FJcVC/s1600/31+bag+Ladybug+Fall+ladybug+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7SL9nXkJOiEEGtDCM3Qv9qsjrrSW-x7T6LYVS90OM2lufIONlURDqlWPzvBdHwIFh11NA0svkZMNn1FU7LIle4-TV8I8KKz_rGeRY1ezMMFfI_r7qP1Cvj4o2Z7J2d3Pss0J-M0FJcVC/s320/31+bag+Ladybug+Fall+ladybug+side.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you spot all the ladybugs?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbc8YVgSyHTM-QY7UB-aS_a-FnBGSWk-raSjGW0nclWeqar6uMgaiOS0l02ISuy7rVsFAGHwzCv22vwBk3rPtvNjzU_aV-mljvdeOHrVX6lncuNeu78ZY0cSVbkuAK8cISDj9vsCLfTJP/s1600/31+bag+Ladybug+Fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbc8YVgSyHTM-QY7UB-aS_a-FnBGSWk-raSjGW0nclWeqar6uMgaiOS0l02ISuy7rVsFAGHwzCv22vwBk3rPtvNjzU_aV-mljvdeOHrVX6lncuNeu78ZY0cSVbkuAK8cISDj9vsCLfTJP/s320/31+bag+Ladybug+Fall.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Other side of the "Ladybug"skirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl1vvL_zPDSMXIxn0x1a52HJDsBqGZDEcgZjcHU1e9TXodLm10LrlHVcI4t5pGAldBLDuaAOWYGYCMkCV0ZDx4F47a6-PU5KNmQRMaE3C_JKFEppyd-tpAIl3C-uUwAtir9zOPOqdXpnz8/s1600/31+bag+Patchwork+green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl1vvL_zPDSMXIxn0x1a52HJDsBqGZDEcgZjcHU1e9TXodLm10LrlHVcI4t5pGAldBLDuaAOWYGYCMkCV0ZDx4F47a6-PU5KNmQRMaE3C_JKFEppyd-tpAIl3C-uUwAtir9zOPOqdXpnz8/s320/31+bag+Patchwork+green.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green patchwork fun!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/hummingbird-tote-bag.html" target="_blank">Additional bags</a><br />
<a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2014/11/new-custom-bag-leather-luxe.html" target="_blank">Latest BeTA Auction Winner</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b>Purchase: </b>If you're interested in purchasing a custom tote or bag, please leave a message on this post -</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
your e-mail / contact info will not be published </div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
20% of your purchase of a custom-designed tote or bag will be donated to <a href="http://www.momsfindhealing.com/" style="color: #4b4b4b; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">BeTA</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
- a support organization for parents and caregivers of children who have experienced early trauma and have attachment issues. They offer scholarships to an amazing annual retreat and provide continual support to caregivers of children of trauma by organizing regional meetings, networking, and education. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-4041858559915367342013-09-30T00:30:00.001-07:002013-09-30T21:24:55.417-07:00Mini Wardrobe Contest Entry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/91482" target="_blank">Mini Wardrobe Contest</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCveeF-_KyoOYFceHiZjYA7f79FZXh76z3G16Co5IpsPqW9nkHjgIUT-VVeYlr0JuE2LwxQKN24d_5VUM9pyg4h3E-Pd3wHg6fKo8zhdmCPCADQy5YGu7xGekP6XTFC_UDHcZ0pUffKyF4/s1600/Mini+Wardrobe+Contest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCveeF-_KyoOYFceHiZjYA7f79FZXh76z3G16Co5IpsPqW9nkHjgIUT-VVeYlr0JuE2LwxQKN24d_5VUM9pyg4h3E-Pd3wHg6fKo8zhdmCPCADQy5YGu7xGekP6XTFC_UDHcZ0pUffKyF4/s640/Mini+Wardrobe+Contest.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
This is a contest to create a 4-piece wardrobe in 4 weeks. You will determine what clothing pieces you use in your wardrobe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
The 4 garments must combine (without adding additional garments) to create at least 4 "looks".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Look 1 - </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/1643-vogue-basic-design-jacket-mini.html" target="_blank">Stripe side of the reversible jacket (Vogue 1643 view C - Modified)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/mccalls-6563-top-for-mini-wardrobe.html" target="_blank">Blue drape top (McCall's 6563 view A)</a> - although you can't actually see it.</li>
<li><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/butterick-b5403-pants-for-mini-wardrobe.html" target="_blank">Purple pants (Butterick 5403 view B)</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
Look 2 - </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Blue drape top</li>
<li>Purple pants</li>
<li>Optional: (not sure if it counts since it's using the reverse of the same piece) - Purple side of the reversible jacket, unbuttoned with the lapels opened and the purple side of the reversible buttons in the top 2 buttonholes of both sides of the lapel.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Look 3 - </div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Purple side of the reversible jacket buttoned with the gold side of the reversible buttons.</li>
<li><a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/09/butterick-5101-dress-for-mini-wardrobe.html" target="_blank">Plaid wrap dress (Butterick 5101 view C)</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
Look 4 - </div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Plaid wrap dress</li>
</ul>
</div>
<br />
<a href="http://patternreview.com/">PatternReview.com</a> Reviews -<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/91474" target="_blank">Reversible jacket (Vogue 1643 view C - Modified)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/91447" target="_blank">Blue drape top (McCall's 6563 view A) </a></li>
<li><a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/91445" target="_blank">Purple pants (Butterick 5403 view B)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/91479" target="_blank">Plaid wrap dress (Butterick 5101 view C)</a></li>
</ol>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-68126900749302136632013-09-29T23:17:00.001-07:002013-09-29T23:17:09.151-07:00Butterick 5101 Dress for Mini Wardrobe Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq9zBIDfD4Xq-vhAL02QpdU379GHEjkF4zLt1bbcSBxznPMr46nwYM47hc7qYQxYvJy17OTfw-Nfi1qkSy5NlgH1cCwj1AWs0Edx8YW0fAEZ_JEcfx8xUrwy3kxXSXxr6akhCxMLlRRWG/s1600/20130929_214113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYq9zBIDfD4Xq-vhAL02QpdU379GHEjkF4zLt1bbcSBxznPMr46nwYM47hc7qYQxYvJy17OTfw-Nfi1qkSy5NlgH1cCwj1AWs0Edx8YW0fAEZ_JEcfx8xUrwy3kxXSXxr6akhCxMLlRRWG/s320/20130929_214113.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL0Ac0hAKqMzgVP-7BF4lSxIhysDK6pmo7PArPjnJzvbx4kDFo6YQ9GuiSfWNvSh2CCr_D-U0r44oieouQz5o83Ep3PMBBxL33CT7mYw4jmAnhWb6IB_UBsU_Tqp8-4rM_aL0q2fGuHNW/s1600/20130929_214052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxL0Ac0hAKqMzgVP-7BF4lSxIhysDK6pmo7PArPjnJzvbx4kDFo6YQ9GuiSfWNvSh2CCr_D-U0r44oieouQz5o83Ep3PMBBxL33CT7mYw4jmAnhWb6IB_UBsU_Tqp8-4rM_aL0q2fGuHNW/s320/20130929_214052.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v0HlW1Il7FirsUnh5te-Q8IDPeM2oWqSUeddEWiYqTLpttd8wlpok2lh-eYTvYk8uNz5BJTwWlJMpNeIbSzxC8QSPTmR4qXQ_o_gcraWehmwQYrXLfQGDbAHj0tStou2ZcLMJsBaR-Kr/s1600/Butterick+B5101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v0HlW1Il7FirsUnh5te-Q8IDPeM2oWqSUeddEWiYqTLpttd8wlpok2lh-eYTvYk8uNz5BJTwWlJMpNeIbSzxC8QSPTmR4qXQ_o_gcraWehmwQYrXLfQGDbAHj0tStou2ZcLMJsBaR-Kr/s320/Butterick+B5101.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is a fun wrap dress using Butterick pattern 5101 version C, which I recently <a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/butterick-5101-review.html" target="_blank">made for a client</a> in a gorgeous hot pink silk. I love the way it drapes, and that it's not too low cut, even for my full bust. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Pattern Description:</b> Wrap front top and dress have all-in-one sleeve, pleated collar extending into front neckline, side tie, sleeve length and hem variations. Designed for knits, but works well with woven fabric as well. This pattern is now out of print. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b> XS-XL. I made an XL. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Yes, although my version had no sleeves.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> They were fairly clear throughout although I didn't follow them too closely and did have to add some edge finishing since I wasn't working with a knit fabric. I did remember that the instructions told me to put the belt loop on the wrong side, so I didn't make that mistake again. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I love that this pattern is very forgiving. It fits a wide variety of figure types and the wrap top doesn't gap and crosses fairly high (it fit nicely on me too, even though I'm very busty) meaning you wouldn't have to worry about safety pins or some other form of closure which is often an issue with wraps. I did have some issues with the skirt not staying closed when I sit down and blowing open in the wind - both to be expected with wrap dresses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHHtSkMPK4Wq8s1eL22ZYfbcPQcHCrBy9S1ipwGiyx6_7VpAjBgkKbg6UZtDAiS6r_WgZ-2LubayFcaE2ApLNhyomZ4NSY3B-dZmH71uzazeuYkl_TUTsOzV0uxYIiUtHDzrJhYAomjhU/s1600/plaid+fabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJHHtSkMPK4Wq8s1eL22ZYfbcPQcHCrBy9S1ipwGiyx6_7VpAjBgkKbg6UZtDAiS6r_WgZ-2LubayFcaE2ApLNhyomZ4NSY3B-dZmH71uzazeuYkl_TUTsOzV0uxYIiUtHDzrJhYAomjhU/s320/plaid+fabric.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Fabric Used: </b>No idea what the fabric is! It's a slightly shiny, medium weight bright, abstract plaid that's been in my stash, waiting for me to find a good excuse to finally make it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: </b>Since I wasn't using a knit, I serged and finished the edges differently than those called for in the directions. Someone suggested cutting the back on a fold if you're working with a print - a great idea for plaid! I left off the sleeves and shortened the hem. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? </b>I will most definitely be making this again. It's easy and classic.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Conclusion: </b>This was my favorite piece I made for the contest.</div>
<br />
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-79486375270093965512013-09-29T22:06:00.002-07:002013-09-30T00:56:34.534-07:00McCall's 6563 Top for Mini Wardrobe Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqX71wj8LHmV3yjOaWv0NxoDyHZgOMJXYH26NjIeWFr1LpXiKi7ifPMROcvtqor6l1Y-BHdK7NJeBrSeEHxRWjCREVhrH5ayX4a4OttZyGuJWtSAs2iUaw7BovflY-DAUgRIMkVjOFyvH/s1600/20130928_110204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOqX71wj8LHmV3yjOaWv0NxoDyHZgOMJXYH26NjIeWFr1LpXiKi7ifPMROcvtqor6l1Y-BHdK7NJeBrSeEHxRWjCREVhrH5ayX4a4OttZyGuJWtSAs2iUaw7BovflY-DAUgRIMkVjOFyvH/s320/20130928_110204.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<b>Pattern Description:</b> Fitted, pullover, bias tops have draped front neckline, shaped hemline and narrow hem. B: contrast band and right side. C: sleeve tabs. A, B and C: cap sleeves.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b> XS - XXL<br />
<br />
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Pretty much.<br />
<br />
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow? </b>Yes, although I admit I didn't pay a lot of attention to them.<br />
<br />
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I like the drape, but maybe because I'm full-busted, my top looked a little strained in spots and wrinkled in others.<br />
<br />
<b>Fabric Used:</b> Some shiny, light-weight polyester fabric I had in my stash. I didn't have enough to cut both pieces on the bias so I only cut the front on the bias.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: </b>Back not cut on the bias. I made a lot of alterations to accommodate my smaller frame and full bust.<br />
<br />
<b>Would you sew it again? </b>Would you recommend it to others? I will probably sew this again with a silkier fabric that drapes instead of wrinkles.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Conclusion:</b> I like the color of this top, but wish I'd made it in something silkier.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzd63b9gIC3Me2nw9HYbpl__iB1JTSkz9tly53EJolzRoLIjgOINO-PZrAiA2lH7uAb4X2s-TtyO0iFTTuvBDZMLdfBDxVV_WuJXIlXwC8b4fFsS0kMwECtqILuTwkB4SWqY3O71KoE6C/s1600/McCalls+6563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzzd63b9gIC3Me2nw9HYbpl__iB1JTSkz9tly53EJolzRoLIjgOINO-PZrAiA2lH7uAb4X2s-TtyO0iFTTuvBDZMLdfBDxVV_WuJXIlXwC8b4fFsS0kMwECtqILuTwkB4SWqY3O71KoE6C/s320/McCalls+6563.jpg" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCall's 6563</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-75028641316904285152013-09-29T21:33:00.002-07:002013-09-29T21:41:00.289-07:001643 Vogue Basic Design Jacket - Mini Wardrobe ContestI modified this out of print pattern quite a bit, including making it reversible.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiJJgoe-GpzbOZ4Wie4HaePocolT08AbdM92YKqqXHqKmX6uuFiIdLaIAOkXa9pCUpkb5IXJbIDyWTpGi7TLJsLNEbtn4_sWE1_POxmnMegGHl-86TPpQ6mpDZZqESNYh2Zijhd5GfI2EW/s1600/bluetop+purple+jacket+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiJJgoe-GpzbOZ4Wie4HaePocolT08AbdM92YKqqXHqKmX6uuFiIdLaIAOkXa9pCUpkb5IXJbIDyWTpGi7TLJsLNEbtn4_sWE1_POxmnMegGHl-86TPpQ6mpDZZqESNYh2Zijhd5GfI2EW/s320/bluetop+purple+jacket+final.jpg" width="155" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8S_rb18K-uoXPPGiBzmnDyuYCg9blfZo9IxliT-g1GaMwSjiVvpyG2kBnwwGDdnlt1Fc1wyrzWvKRgxmrUKk0S-NBEsJUGlLUDXRrDRxnswX6RMtVQEkPYD_2zKEjceDK6cq-I24KKgoA/s1600/20130928_111952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8S_rb18K-uoXPPGiBzmnDyuYCg9blfZo9IxliT-g1GaMwSjiVvpyG2kBnwwGDdnlt1Fc1wyrzWvKRgxmrUKk0S-NBEsJUGlLUDXRrDRxnswX6RMtVQEkPYD_2zKEjceDK6cq-I24KKgoA/s320/20130928_111952.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkwIHrQG9DeyMsTR9dc9f1kdcwH-0xahgdDrCeodMDu8USv5GIXG_OQLobBuROxoMt0d-SyjAl9E2RVyLq1v_j_QKP2UFHXRsdJy6tVeEyX7bbl2Bd57k3XwT3e-rKH-I73KO1oZkHkvz/s1600/20130929_213955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkwIHrQG9DeyMsTR9dc9f1kdcwH-0xahgdDrCeodMDu8USv5GIXG_OQLobBuROxoMt0d-SyjAl9E2RVyLq1v_j_QKP2UFHXRsdJy6tVeEyX7bbl2Bd57k3XwT3e-rKH-I73KO1oZkHkvz/s320/20130929_213955.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoqI6ZvoF_9KOVSsxK6kq1ec_XgflVZlp0CC9UqM1yecLz3XALprXqJjpkZ6WflgBNTJrjdGRC8_i1d5S27n7jm48AxUnVkavWXtzx1nxA3TsEmezIJHI6g6zPqIO47TNB-nCK6EWFNp2/s1600/Vogue+1643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoqI6ZvoF_9KOVSsxK6kq1ec_XgflVZlp0CC9UqM1yecLz3XALprXqJjpkZ6WflgBNTJrjdGRC8_i1d5S27n7jm48AxUnVkavWXtzx1nxA3TsEmezIJHI6g6zPqIO47TNB-nCK6EWFNp2/s320/Vogue+1643.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Pattern Description: </b>Out of print pattern. Semi-fitted, lined, above or below hip jacket has neckline variations, shoulder pads, princess seams and long, two-piece sleeves with mock vent and button trim.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b> Multi - Mine was an 18-20-22<br />
<br />
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? </b>Not really, because I modified the heck out of it!<br />
<br />
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> Honestly I didn't follow the directions, because I modified the jacket to be reversible.<br />
<br />
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> Based on the pattern images, I assumed the pattern was a little more fitted.<br />
<br />
<b>Fabric Used: </b>The fabrics I used had been in my stash for a significant amount of time. The purple was a medium weight fabric. The stripe was very lightweight. I had very little fabric left and had to piece the purple on the lapels and collar and didn't have enough fabric to make a deep lapel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtcgJul8ARDKZJrCZaGGUVoqGX3FOK8pYSQwHCsFhP3G3e92mOX12GzuT6W6ynNrB_noisDX0rFoEdU6KlMXmGlx73CHA7AjYwZ8wkLRUAbWYhqBsc5WALGWcmDYZsMd0VkcgZIv-fCLm/s1600/stripe+and+purple+blazer+fabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtcgJul8ARDKZJrCZaGGUVoqGX3FOK8pYSQwHCsFhP3G3e92mOX12GzuT6W6ynNrB_noisDX0rFoEdU6KlMXmGlx73CHA7AjYwZ8wkLRUAbWYhqBsc5WALGWcmDYZsMd0VkcgZIv-fCLm/s320/stripe+and+purple+blazer+fabric.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKciH4PpgIG8Ymyg-FE5AkQ-dt8nyE8MOYugd5DIDyPZOEd-kA8Y8SHebo5vUWQm66UKzf7-42Qn_kWlLThuw5PsecrdiCH-Q7KzD9hbibDWI8FKUaWyiy0BslZKWCRA1HFuqlZ09nMmQ/s1600/purple+stripe+blazer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKciH4PpgIG8Ymyg-FE5AkQ-dt8nyE8MOYugd5DIDyPZOEd-kA8Y8SHebo5vUWQm66UKzf7-42Qn_kWlLThuw5PsecrdiCH-Q7KzD9hbibDWI8FKUaWyiy0BslZKWCRA1HFuqlZ09nMmQ/s1600/purple+stripe+blazer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PhotoShopped sketch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> I found this gorgeous black and white striped jacket and wanted to use a fun striped fabric from my stash. To match the inspiration jacket, I altered view C to have pointed lapels and cut the front corners off the hem. Then I tailored the whole thing to be more form fitting and adjusted for a full bust.<br />
<br />
I decided to make the jacket reversible so I didn't use facings. I didn't have enough of either fabric for a full length sleeve so I altered it to 3/4 sleeves. The purple pockets on the striped side are faux. I put buttonholes on both sides and sewed the buttons together so that they work like cuff links. I used a covered button covered in the purple fabric for one side of the buttons.<br />
<b>Would you sew it again? </b>Maybe. It's very basic. I would definitely use a heavier fabric next time or interface the heck out of everything.<br />
<b>Would you recommend it to others?</b> Sure.<br />
<b>Conclusion: </b>This is a very versatile piece for the Mini Wardrobe contest. It can be worn 3 ways. Stripe side with purple buttons. Purple side with gold buttons. Purple side - open with the strip side showing and the purple buttons in the top button holes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-89711956274383619482013-09-29T08:40:00.000-07:002013-09-29T22:02:51.687-07:00Butterick B5403 - Pants for Mini Wardrobe Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptMbQ0KYqyK4RqkRWVEfm5WUBecP_WDLfzmlC1ymbJWv8LQ-T5Ft84fk6oUlX5mBHRSy82dLNekOAi8TUw45SpTjV8ZwY2Lo0dXWCp46rf7_5z9FWAi854qcUqZtD670nXWDUTJ6GUslX/s1600/20130928_110204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg0s2qJmye3VM78wyE5ZGpLZvzqUDRubKgUHyOBdaNNUv_sJIWLKAWxFhaS3b0wLw9AAk3rM-cL0C675_CLtuEZmjnIA-DVObCf5kRgy4qRUMnK0goDwzrjHr-vqfoPlgFjej7vjVaDwy/s1600/20130928_111952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg0s2qJmye3VM78wyE5ZGpLZvzqUDRubKgUHyOBdaNNUv_sJIWLKAWxFhaS3b0wLw9AAk3rM-cL0C675_CLtuEZmjnIA-DVObCf5kRgy4qRUMnK0goDwzrjHr-vqfoPlgFjej7vjVaDwy/s320/20130928_111952.jpg" width="240" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptMbQ0KYqyK4RqkRWVEfm5WUBecP_WDLfzmlC1ymbJWv8LQ-T5Ft84fk6oUlX5mBHRSy82dLNekOAi8TUw45SpTjV8ZwY2Lo0dXWCp46rf7_5z9FWAi854qcUqZtD670nXWDUTJ6GUslX/s320/20130928_110204.jpg" width="150" /></div>
<br />
<b>Pattern Description: </b> This jean design features a straight waistband with belt carriers, front hip pockets, mock fly front zipper, classic yoke with back patch pockets and topstitching details. Jeans A have straight legs. Jeans B have wide leg. I made the wide leg version.<br />
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b>XS to XL<br />
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Unfortunately, yes. I didn't notice on the pattern how high-waisted the pants are. They were also very short.
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> Yes.<br />
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I was very unhappy with how high-waisted the pants are. They tend to blouse in the crotch, maybe because I didn't make them in denim.<br />
<b>Fabric Used:</b> This fabric has been in my stash for so long I have no idea. It is a medium-weight synthetic that doesn't wrinkle too badly.<br />
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> I wanted this to look more like slacks than jeans so I left off the belt loops and back pockets.<br />
<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? </b> I won't be making these again. I really disliked how the crotch looks.<br />
<b>Conclusion: </b> I loved the color of these pants and of course they match the jacket I made for the mini wardrobe contest, but I think I'll be giving them to my mom.
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-60948623391682214042013-09-05T02:13:00.000-07:002013-09-30T00:29:45.549-07:00Mini-Wardrobe Contest 2013<div class="tr_bq">
I'm thinking about entering this contest, but would love some opinions on the pieces:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQfLeaC2yjcNEAkDH2voGIE0jxRob0Y5URquD1pkVbMaE7UpU-Mz_6aTan3ZzXQcUPFSs5hMPNB3w2dDdrN4DMHM-Uy8Wft5KX042aLjYYG0mY44Iua72ZRA0kTuc0IJzAMqSwi0X37GE/s1600/pattern+review+mini+wardrobe+contest.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQfLeaC2yjcNEAkDH2voGIE0jxRob0Y5URquD1pkVbMaE7UpU-Mz_6aTan3ZzXQcUPFSs5hMPNB3w2dDdrN4DMHM-Uy8Wft5KX042aLjYYG0mY44Iua72ZRA0kTuc0IJzAMqSwi0X37GE/s1600/pattern+review+mini+wardrobe+contest.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/cgi-bin/contestreport.pl?ContestID=191" target="_blank">Mini Wardrobe Contest</a><br />
September 1 � 30 2013<br />
This is a contest to create a 4-piece wardrobe in 4 weeks. You will determine what clothing pieces you use in your wardrobe.<br />
The 4 garments must combine (without adding additional garments) to create at least 4 "looks".<br />
For Example, but not limited to...<br />
1. tee, blouse , pants , skirt. Tee/pants, blouse/pants, tee/skirt, blouse/skirt = 4 looks<br />
2. Dress, cardigan, top, pants. Dress, dress/cardigan, Pants/top, pants/top/cardigan = 4 looks<br />
3. 2 pants, top, jacket. Pants1/top, pants2/top, pants1/top/cardigan, pants2/top/cardigan = 4 looks<br />
As long as you can take the 4 items and wear them in at least 4 different combos, your entry will qualify.<br />
Rest of the rules at the end of this post. **</blockquote>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qaImCMF9r6FHYUHgjot6zbgV-KI9bxLSJGzQy1-zfp21Po2LiiiUx3_J4_qkG_WpWUXXh7XaudAg1Q9bwM-f433EK-6tVsXGQ3RxwkdXwL2qxi2v-1ubXwYSifpaHRn_xY3FH3c1kbmL/s1600/plaid+dress.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This PhotoShop version of the dress is not made in my fabric</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qaImCMF9r6FHYUHgjot6zbgV-KI9bxLSJGzQy1-zfp21Po2LiiiUx3_J4_qkG_WpWUXXh7XaudAg1Q9bwM-f433EK-6tVsXGQ3RxwkdXwL2qxi2v-1ubXwYSifpaHRn_xY3FH3c1kbmL/s1600/plaid+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUv2FCkVvNL-n99hp63DefaX549nqKlHB-7CvjRtn-UegP3ACol58Yyi7fm-eXsjBGsH1P5yrtM9IgyMa37ZU2h4eHKKPsbllwYZGh97RhpFQ5BvW40oCLPzwtp2KmrDA7IDhxS7aePsp0/s1600/Butterick+B5101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUv2FCkVvNL-n99hp63DefaX549nqKlHB-7CvjRtn-UegP3ACol58Yyi7fm-eXsjBGsH1P5yrtM9IgyMa37ZU2h4eHKKPsbllwYZGh97RhpFQ5BvW40oCLPzwtp2KmrDA7IDhxS7aePsp0/s200/Butterick+B5101.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
<br />
I have this gorgeous plaid fabric that I'm excited to finally find a use for! I want to make it into a wrap dress using <a href="http://brushstrokesblog.blogspot.com/2013/08/butterick-5101-review.html" target="_blank">this pattern</a> that I made for a client recently. I want to make the dress (view C), but without sleeves (this is Texas after all!). <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisy-PZy9rhrI2elmtsAGA35lMLrWKA37nWC2F3B1BBQD8d2oBbaUmo4_juR3sRMNyTBm_CBLMcUyFXqY0in3mYRb5elxwuERRAwtTOmw1krUqquau-ICiU0aFcw2JpNWd-uXfGbOiQ5Pvt/s1600/plaid+fabric.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisy-PZy9rhrI2elmtsAGA35lMLrWKA37nWC2F3B1BBQD8d2oBbaUmo4_juR3sRMNyTBm_CBLMcUyFXqY0in3mYRb5elxwuERRAwtTOmw1krUqquau-ICiU0aFcw2JpNWd-uXfGbOiQ5Pvt/s200/plaid+fabric.JPG" width="200" /></a>Here's the plaid fabric I want to use. I really want to make a cute short yellow jacket that will go with many other outfits, but the only fabric I have enough of to make the pants and other pieces is a gorgeous deep purple. I like bright colors, but a yellow jacket with purple pants is a bit much so I'll need to make a purple jacket..<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWc5MZgj3kGw1UJW_fXaWLGapjDIz-SH3S8jBfRvmQ1qhtuGQHjiymx9A7hJJxc6LvH5WQQ25UUUa0sNkx7x13hp81Q_L18guy5nNbcfcIEmr8H8Iy1MOrMlmHUzc5jz3GwveiqkH3siv/s1600/fabrics+mini+wardrobe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWc5MZgj3kGw1UJW_fXaWLGapjDIz-SH3S8jBfRvmQ1qhtuGQHjiymx9A7hJJxc6LvH5WQQ25UUUa0sNkx7x13hp81Q_L18guy5nNbcfcIEmr8H8Iy1MOrMlmHUzc5jz3GwveiqkH3siv/s320/fabrics+mini+wardrobe.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are the fabrics (although they look really washed out here!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So I'm thinking purple slacks and a pretty blue blouse (the blue fabric is a pretty lightweight shiny fabric that almost looks like lining material and should make beautifully into something "flowy." Here's what I'm thinking for the top. Opinions?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6DJFAxR9nsDDTRUwtqqCYOOQZCGNTuJ_zKfm5sMT5u_f0auOPXxhpOb1k3sPxJ3X-6g4ZWRIuyWCifX8CpnM5HUm39IsS-l4Uf5zuX18oNpxZd8RVg36lxRUvYY_ue_pGBsHvP5WR1Gg/s1600/turq+necklace+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6DJFAxR9nsDDTRUwtqqCYOOQZCGNTuJ_zKfm5sMT5u_f0auOPXxhpOb1k3sPxJ3X-6g4ZWRIuyWCifX8CpnM5HUm39IsS-l4Uf5zuX18oNpxZd8RVg36lxRUvYY_ue_pGBsHvP5WR1Gg/s1600/turq+necklace+shirt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top A</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmlqoTEiL_2yrB8CcJ9kBT1813aG6iDjH8n-L2YYcqoKKYliido8E6EjGaA7QcK3R6OawS2DDXt35OGU5Sg-gAN7jA0IFcb9YM6UJcEm9tIFOv7GLQapDwwhdSeTKN7VKTeio8Hp4zVW-/s1600/blue+drape+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmlqoTEiL_2yrB8CcJ9kBT1813aG6iDjH8n-L2YYcqoKKYliido8E6EjGaA7QcK3R6OawS2DDXt35OGU5Sg-gAN7jA0IFcb9YM6UJcEm9tIFOv7GLQapDwwhdSeTKN7VKTeio8Hp4zVW-/s1600/blue+drape+top.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top B</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I want to make a jacket and have enough of the purple left for a cute jacket, but I'm tempted to make a reversible jacket using this interesting striped fabric which needs the purple to give it just a little oomph (it's not quite as exciting as it looks here - plus PhotoShop is not my friend on diagonals!). You have to imagine it all in the stripey print, I only PhotoShopped 1/2 of it. Love the way the stripes look on this one!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcgX_P15O_kK6FofYF6pVVVSG46X8_iWJcePWGkIuw9YjupnPaLn93cuF-W4WlxG54oRKm3En0bwl-DvEHpPCnvbKioBrECx-DmQIOze6IrFpvw35yKA_uS-jiA_MR6AGzrHqYkmsdYxQY/s1600/purple+stripe+blazer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcgX_P15O_kK6FofYF6pVVVSG46X8_iWJcePWGkIuw9YjupnPaLn93cuF-W4WlxG54oRKm3En0bwl-DvEHpPCnvbKioBrECx-DmQIOze6IrFpvw35yKA_uS-jiA_MR6AGzrHqYkmsdYxQY/s1600/purple+stripe+blazer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacket A</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I got lazy PhotoShopping this one - imagine it striped, not graffiti looking! I like it with this outfit, but I'm trying to picture it as a solid purple with the printed wrap dress.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGfBLvm-Be4yIxz0VrVe7ssFY6eto8kpJ3RS7Z4JrvtzqjI-ATPWuNTlX37_RTI6TIzF9T7woJgFtkL2vFP8eYjqYK7_GTmlb3jj18caZBzARys1GIaCfZq9OnlIPeF0WW7mxDTra63Sq/s1600/purple+stripe+jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGfBLvm-Be4yIxz0VrVe7ssFY6eto8kpJ3RS7Z4JrvtzqjI-ATPWuNTlX37_RTI6TIzF9T7woJgFtkL2vFP8eYjqYK7_GTmlb3jj18caZBzARys1GIaCfZq9OnlIPeF0WW7mxDTra63Sq/s1600/purple+stripe+jacket.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jacket B</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedPSIxmDxomhXv7JXUnsbPPvsE-KXByFiN95vJNsywWz7WudQnkVgfA1ueU2Ww2X7s27E_za7Nsn1UbKFvzG6cyQyostaxSXqpCjuMRhdpUco6-3mvbYPedmY5MzM9sOoLEIIRqH3ccnv/s1600/Dress+n+blazer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedPSIxmDxomhXv7JXUnsbPPvsE-KXByFiN95vJNsywWz7WudQnkVgfA1ueU2Ww2X7s27E_za7Nsn1UbKFvzG6cyQyostaxSXqpCjuMRhdpUco6-3mvbYPedmY5MzM9sOoLEIIRqH3ccnv/s1600/Dress+n+blazer.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blazer with "my" plaid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Which jacket do you like? Do bolero jackets look right with wrap dresses? I don't have enough fabric for a full sleeve so they'd have to be 3/4 sleeve (not even sure I have enough for that!).<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZcRFBkOtGrU-ItnH8vbR0bmkknIC5gbuH3ZDPfpHx5NGp7z4mg813YHYTHTG2h2PNj9qFEWcLKb5I0WcFBCqyNGGirIt5w1y9bgQhHoWumE8j4kQPR4OgdWJRv9kYooP6EsDFgAEj_8m/s1600/Dress+n+jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZcRFBkOtGrU-ItnH8vbR0bmkknIC5gbuH3ZDPfpHx5NGp7z4mg813YHYTHTG2h2PNj9qFEWcLKb5I0WcFBCqyNGGirIt5w1y9bgQhHoWumE8j4kQPR4OgdWJRv9kYooP6EsDFgAEj_8m/s1600/Dress+n+jacket.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bolero - not my plaid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My husband (who has great taste) suggested that Top A and the bolero jacket might be a little juvenile so I've decided to go with the the drapey top and the blazer.<br />
<br />
<br />
So my "wardrobe" would be:<br />
1. Dress<br />
2. Dress with jacket (purple side)<br />
3. Pants with top<br />
4. Pants with top and jacket (striped side)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
**Choice of garment types and styles is entirely up to you!<br />
Optional Storyboard: You may include a storyboard, or plan, showing the planned garments and the minimum quantity of outfits.<br />
Entrants must do an individual review for each pattern used (can update previous reviews). The actual contest entry review is the "composite review" for the mini-wardrobe itself. The composite review must have links to the individual reviews. (If all items are from one wardrobe pattern, one review will suffice.)<br />
Pictures are required for voting. There must be a photo for each of the 4 looks.<br />
Final garments may be pictured on a dress form or worn by the garment's intended owner. Please consult with the contest moderator if neither of these is feasible for you, and options will be discussed.<br />
This wardrobe/ensemble may be created for men, women, or children. Doll clothing is not admissible. Accessories do not count as one of the 4 items, but may be made and showcased with the mini-wardrobe.<br />
<br />
<br />
Prizes<br />
First Prize: $100 Gift Certificate from Fashion Fabrics Club<br />
Second Prize: $50 Gift Certificate from Fashion Fabrics Club<br />
<br />
<br />
General Rules for all Contests<br />
1. All reviews must be entered for submission by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the last day of the contest. It is suggested to start your review as a Work In Progress (private or public) so that you can get any bugs ironed out prior to the deadline. Although Contest Managers and Contest Committee will help with technical issues, they may not be available at the end of the contest so be sure to allow adequate time to post your entry before the contest ends.<br />
2. Fabric may be pretreated before the start of the contest.<br />
3. Patterns MAY be muslined prior to the start of this contest however; fabric for contest garment may NOT be cut prior to the start of the contest.<br />
4. Items intended for sale, or for which you were or will be paid to make, do not qualify for any contest, but items made for charity are welcome.<br />
5. Unless otherwise stated in the rules, all reviews written for a contest entry must include a picture of the entry, preferably on a live model.<br />
6. Interpretation of rules is subject to the discretion of the contest manager and the contest committee.<br />
Contest Eligibility:<br />
***Rule #1 is changed for 2013<br />
1. Any member of Pattern Review, either paying (FoPR) or non-paying, who is a registered member on the site before the contest begins is eligible to enter.<br />
2. Any member of Pattern Review, either paying (FoPR) or non-paying, who's been a registered member on the site for 90 days prior to the end of a contest is eligible to vote in a contest.<br />
3. Any member who's won first place in a contest on Pattern Review that ended in the previous four-month period is ineligible to win another contest (during that four-month period).For this contest, first-place winners from the following contests are NOT eligible to win:<br />
Accessory Challenge<br />
Jeans Contest<br />
UFO Contest<br />
Fabric Stash<br />
UFO<br />
Sewing for Men<br />
Sewing for Children<br />
Voting Guidelines:<br />
1. The first, second and third place winners will be decided by member vote. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place winners.<br />
2. Each member can vote on up to five entries.<br />
3. Because of the high quality of the garments we're seeing entered in PR Contests, we're setting forth some guidelines that may help you choose when voting. Consider how well the entry fulfills each of the following criteria in order to narrow down your votes:<br />
Does the garment clearly reflect the pattern's line drawing?<br />
How well does the garment fit the criteria stated in the contest rules? How well does it fit the spirit of the rules?<br />
Are the construction methods, including but not limited to seam finishes, lining techniques, etc, well suited to the design? To the fabric?<br />
Is the fabric choice well suited to the design? Are the lining and interfacing choices appropriate?<br />
Is the review complete and well written?<br />
Taking into account the stated ability level of the entrant, how well does the garment fit?<br />
Creative points. You may choose to give extra credit here for an entry that reflects additional creativity (embellishment, fabric choice, etc.) while staying within the nature of the original pattern.<br />
Complexity of the project. Relate this to the skill level of the participant. If a participant is a beginner then a princess seam may get the same complexity level as an underarm gusset gets for an advanced sewer. This is purely subjective, but a complex garment might garner more points than a simple one if a tie-breaker is needed<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Join the contest now! </blockquote>
marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-86206762050876331942013-08-23T10:49:00.000-07:002013-08-23T10:49:16.533-07:00Does Fabric Make a Difference? McCall's 7451<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrlgHCcfUz5U8aXnF7JuylXXYAiT9S5H4nmaryK7PA9dAp8eQnUtzxAEP_skpjBjKxULKzHLQSZ0pSsCDKeq47Waxu4s9p3zsmTZvbksiiEnxvvAdoozBj2NSWt1mHn1N-9Lhyphenhyphen4epJqIC/s1600/mccalls+7451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrlgHCcfUz5U8aXnF7JuylXXYAiT9S5H4nmaryK7PA9dAp8eQnUtzxAEP_skpjBjKxULKzHLQSZ0pSsCDKeq47Waxu4s9p3zsmTZvbksiiEnxvvAdoozBj2NSWt1mHn1N-9Lhyphenhyphen4epJqIC/s320/mccalls+7451.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL1CFCSR4JsPSfpBnyZaP6xmlmvRSJpz7MUqGo_kmLt0yoZBDe0vzEpbwwjUya1Z_tApCtvxpgvunzkaBHQuko-5SyvnRLNHvqjmNIjOJBNU8f_YdrLF4fMqqIIVsPrfB7vLgpWYUGGE_/s1600/scan0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL1CFCSR4JsPSfpBnyZaP6xmlmvRSJpz7MUqGo_kmLt0yoZBDe0vzEpbwwjUya1Z_tApCtvxpgvunzkaBHQuko-5SyvnRLNHvqjmNIjOJBNU8f_YdrLF4fMqqIIVsPrfB7vLgpWYUGGE_/s320/scan0018.jpg" width="211" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUHDBnkHRnOL3ojTTKl12U67Dsb-cNjnrJrotXikVXVVic1MD8QtIdz1V4AhTy81gHDTyhDecDKUZhhx9RTVeOk6sZ3UxaxRfwrihnF93E2_Z4xLuPMSxt-vt74y2TDQTDnapiKnNezCkJ/s1600/scan0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUHDBnkHRnOL3ojTTKl12U67Dsb-cNjnrJrotXikVXVVic1MD8QtIdz1V4AhTy81gHDTyhDecDKUZhhx9RTVeOk6sZ3UxaxRfwrihnF93E2_Z4xLuPMSxt-vt74y2TDQTDnapiKnNezCkJ/s320/scan0019.jpg" width="209" /></a>Does fabric make a difference? Two brides chose the exact same pattern (McCall's 7451) an off-the-shoulder lace sheath dress with removable train. The first bride chose a pretty Venetian lace (~$30/yard) with a tulle train. <br />
<br />
<br />
The second bride chose the same simple sheath dress, but provided ~$1000/yard! heavily beaded and sequined Venetian lace and we used a beautiful organza fabric for the train - gorgeous!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8SW2Df64EIOF65u06YBe87L_a4Md062dbiuFyhp9BzWYK3RyOLn-ZadrEkCSFDLo-jixYcakjpIyLXlFJnLnru4Zol1awiSqWbVoRelQKEsn2nPge_R3GEjkd4p9fXqtnx90NaflIMUx/s1600/scan0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8SW2Df64EIOF65u06YBe87L_a4Md062dbiuFyhp9BzWYK3RyOLn-ZadrEkCSFDLo-jixYcakjpIyLXlFJnLnru4Zol1awiSqWbVoRelQKEsn2nPge_R3GEjkd4p9fXqtnx90NaflIMUx/s320/scan0023.jpg" width="232" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxPAkwnyqAysusMS3pavhdEcC7iGzpAvGo7pmRmghE-hr_01bDsaU7ML3gLhG9NQGQAWQvs9YghbluPHcg6F_CVcsSQgZYBtHRvxWUg00Cg7trLhHCvxZ_N_JNVvKUZ6YluIFfoa2GNsZ/s1600/scan0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxPAkwnyqAysusMS3pavhdEcC7iGzpAvGo7pmRmghE-hr_01bDsaU7ML3gLhG9NQGQAWQvs9YghbluPHcg6F_CVcsSQgZYBtHRvxWUg00Cg7trLhHCvxZ_N_JNVvKUZ6YluIFfoa2GNsZ/s320/scan0022.jpg" width="224" /></a>The second bride had originally requested red satin roses be added to her dress. I managed to convince her that red roses would be distracting and look like a quinceañera* dress and I only had to add <i>white </i>satin roses to the top of the sleeves.<br />
<br />
Does the fabric make a difference? You decide!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(*<b>Quinceañera </b>- celebration of a girl's 15th birthday and the transition from childhood to young womanhood. Traditionally the girl wears the equivalent of a wedding ballgown, but usually in pink.)<br />
<br />
MCCALL'S 7451 PATTERN DESCRIPTION: Alicyn Exclusive. "Misses' Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dress: Set of close fitting long or short sleeve bridal gowns and bridesmaids' dress has front and back darts, back slit and fastens in back with bridal loops and buttons; view A and C have detachable trains."<br />
COPYRIGHT: 1995<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601816375325524836.post-32925743831329682092013-08-16T23:00:00.003-07:002013-08-16T23:22:16.446-07:00Butterick 5101 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi775Pyy8XtWb6odmFvdvRBXTFzAAsRBBmnSpdIrirXsLtwtD1kOlqmfgo7kIIRTJJl8nr-dJ6uvYZh91jsyJvg8OnU9506k_DaZkWQ7flyuv8sY5um_I8g2Ro8HX1guRB-XZ5TdBknoYc6/s1600/100_1451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi775Pyy8XtWb6odmFvdvRBXTFzAAsRBBmnSpdIrirXsLtwtD1kOlqmfgo7kIIRTJJl8nr-dJ6uvYZh91jsyJvg8OnU9506k_DaZkWQ7flyuv8sY5um_I8g2Ro8HX1guRB-XZ5TdBknoYc6/s320/100_1451.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">I designed this dress for a client, but find clients don't always want to give me pictures of the completed garment. In this case, I asked a student with similar measurements to model. If/ when my client sends me a picture I'll replace them!</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Pattern Description: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
From the Butterick website: "Wrap front top and dress have all-in-one sleeve, pleated collar extending into front neckline, side tie, sleeve length and hem variations. Mock wrap front skirt and straight leg pants have casing and elastic yoke." This pattern is now out of print.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I did not notice when the client and I chose this pattern that it was for knits! She had a couple of yards of beautiful silk, and I believe that it did not need the stretch from the knit. It turned out beautifully.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SZuDWyQPSa_KleDCKTkvqM8QOjqEMaLp2J-ykjKc5Ar1LeYBB3BXdrwyIaD3XZqgCV1SPpxzhUj6T9TbKFih9yGOMx8VI-2R-OtaskpmvNcYdFkcsXXLZQpIYZ0J7UMx8frMAdX_wY2j/s1600/Butterick+B5101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0SZuDWyQPSa_KleDCKTkvqM8QOjqEMaLp2J-ykjKc5Ar1LeYBB3BXdrwyIaD3XZqgCV1SPpxzhUj6T9TbKFih9yGOMx8VI-2R-OtaskpmvNcYdFkcsXXLZQpIYZ0J7UMx8frMAdX_wY2j/s320/Butterick+B5101.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Pattern Sizing:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
XS-XL. I made an XL. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yes, although I shortened the skirt a little for my petite client. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
They were fairly clear throughout although I didn't follow them too closely. I did discover (after the fact!) that the instructions told me to put the belt loop on the wrong side. Luckily the stitches did not damage the silk.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I love that this pattern was very forgiving. It fit a wide variety of figure types and the wrap top doesn't gap and crosses fairly high (it fit nicely on me too, even though I'm very busty) meaning you wouldn't have to worry about safety pins or some other form of closure which is often an issue with wraps. I thought the waist yoke on the skirt was a little short and bulky, and if it weren't covered by the top I would probably have redesigned it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Fabric Used:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A beautiful lightweight silk!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I shortened the skirt, as my petite client preferred that it hit above the knee. I also shortened the ties, because I only had a couple of yards of fabric to accommodate both top and skirt! Obviously since I was using silk instead of a knit, I finished the edges differently than the directions called for (french seams and narrow rolled hems on the facings. Someone suggested cutting the back on a fold if you're working with a print. I agree.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will probably sew this top again, but this time for myself. I like wraps. I'll just need to find a pretty fabric. Probably won't be making the skirt. I like asymmetrical skirts, but don't think this was a particularly great example and I don't like the waist band. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Conclusion:</b> </div>
I was a little nervous when my client chose this pattern, because I was afraid it would look a little dated. I'm very happy about the way it turned out!<span style="text-align: center;"></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL651g7iUNUCw1l1buO_qYXYjyZkeG8qulbkajX86pWC40R2xqTxErTkUg342fZ5E7jG9ooBHAIyRPEhjBdqT_FsQ5sLuY7DQNOFZCgo0nXcVHjEZh-EB6O_PRL-_eZIJhOu8yRwAYSbrz/s1600/100_1452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL651g7iUNUCw1l1buO_qYXYjyZkeG8qulbkajX86pWC40R2xqTxErTkUg342fZ5E7jG9ooBHAIyRPEhjBdqT_FsQ5sLuY7DQNOFZCgo0nXcVHjEZh-EB6O_PRL-_eZIJhOu8yRwAYSbrz/s320/100_1452.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />marythemomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08205319256573120866noreply@blogger.com1