Cool Sewing for Back to School
Simplicity’s It’s So Easy collection has an array of cool sewing patterns for the college crowd. Yes, moms there many charming patterns for children in this collection, too. Plus, you are sure to find something for yourself. The Learn to…
Book Review—Sew What! Skirts: 16 Simple Styles You can Make with Fabulous Fabric
Here is a winning book for beginning sewers, as well as for those who have been sewing awhile, but would like to begin drafting their own patterns. Sew What! Skirts: 16 Simple Styles You can Make with Fabulous Fabric by…
Making Hoop Skirts
Wedding dresses look gorgeous with a full hoop skirt. Hoop skirts are a staple for historical and stage costumes. This striking look is accomplished by wearing a hoop petticoat underneath a full skirt. Hooped petticoats are not difficult to make….
Costume Making for the Amateur Theater Group—Set Design
Production planning includes set design as well as costume design. As the knowledgeable costume person you may also be called upon to design the set. Sets for community theater do not need to be elaborate. A few simple props may…
Let’s talk about foam
While we attempt to fix our wordpress photo uploading issue (anyone else having this problem?) let’s talk about foam. Foam is a staple in home decorating. You use it to stuff pillows, seat cushions, mattresses and for all sorts of…
Costume Making for Amateur Theater Groups—Foot Gear
Authentic looking foot gear is an important part of any costume. Frequently, modern shoes can be disguised to look like they came from the time period in question. Cavalier shoes can be made by attaching rosettes or large buckles to…
Costume Making for the Amateur Theater Groups—Avoid Anachronisms
Nothing can ruin the sense of production actually being set in a particular time more than a glaring anachronism. Hilarious examples include a wristwatch on George Washington’s arm and the outline of a cell phone underneath Caesar’s toga. An Elizabethan…
Contest Notice
The Craft Blog, a Canadian-based craft lovers site, has announced that they will be giving away three wonderful Brother sewing machines in monthly contests beginning in September. Checkout their site, for more details.
Back to the future with bean bag chairs
How many of you remember bean bag chairs? You know…the big lump of fabric filled with beans that was probably the most comfortable seat in the house if you were a kid? Well, they haven’t gone away. In fact, they…
Costume Making for Amateur Theater Groups—Costume Care
You spend time, money, and effort making sure that your stage costumes look authentic. The same effort should be devoted to carrying for them. In some community theater groups, the actors themselves are responsible for carrying for their own costumes….