Have you ever seen a really cool dress on the runways or in a fashion magazine that you couldn't afford? Or maybe you've always dreamed of owning a dress you never found? Here are some basic tips to make your dress, specific links with instructions, tips and more detailed techniques.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting Started
Step 1. Choose the fabric
You can use any fabric for your dress, although it is advisable to focus on a natural and easy to work material such as cotton, especially if you are a beginner. Choose a fabric with a nice color and pattern that matches your complexion. Silk and heavy fabrics are more difficult to sew if you don't have a lot of skill. Also choose a thick enough fabric that doesn't require the addition of a lining or a double layer. Based on your measurements and the length of the dress, it may take 180-270 cm of tissue.
- Use a very loose t-shirt as the base of your outfit. You can find one at a thrift store or at the back of your closet.
- Try to be creative when choosing the fabric, you can also use a sheet or curtain. You can save a little 'with vintage versions of these tissues, if you do not have available in the house.
Step 2. Wash the fabric
To remove every wrinkle or stain, or narrowing the fabric before using it, it is important to wash it. Once washed and dried, iron it with a warm iron to start processing.
Step 3. Choose a model
A dress is not easy to sew and is therefore easier if you have a pattern to follow. A pattern provides you with specific measurements and exact shapes to cut out, to have all the pieces that will then make up your dress. You can find them for free or at a low price on the internet or even in the remnants of shops and craft items. Choose the pattern that offers the style and shape you want, and the right size for your body.
Step 4. Create a fake model
If you don't want to use a pattern for your dress, you can use a fake one from a dress you already own. Find a dress that you like and that fits you well and use it to create your own pattern. The finished tailoring work will have the same style and shape as the initial dress.
Step 5. Take your measurements
If you're following a pattern, use a tape measure to detect your measurements. To create a dress starting from an existing one, you must first fold the latter in half lengthwise. Place it on top of your fabric (also folded lengthwise) and trace the edges. You can change the total length by using either the template or by measuring from the hips where you want the dress to end.
Part 2 of 3: Sew the Dress
Step 1. Cut the fabric
Lay it flat (or folded in half depending on the pattern you have chosen) and place the pattern on top. Follow the guidelines for cutting the fabric into various shapes. If you are using an existing dress as a template, trace the outlines after folding it in half, and match the folded edge of the design to the folded edge of the fabric. Cut along the lines you drew, open the fabric and there in front of you the whole gown shape.
- Take care to cut the edges, leaving about 1, 5 cm of cloth more for the seams. Many patterns already provide this space, but you've got to remember when I used a suit as a template.
- If you want sleeves, they will need to be cut separately. Cut the dress as if it were a tank top and the sleeves will be added later.
- Remember to cut the robe back following the same instructions that you used for the front side.
Step 2. Start sewing
Follow the directions provided by the pattern. The sides are usually sewn first. Place the fabric inside out and fold it about half an inch at the edge, using the iron to flatten the fold. Then, with a zigzag stitch, join the front of the dress to the back, then add a top stitch to secure the seam to the body of the dress. This last point helps you keep the fabric flat and will give a more professional look to the work.
- Follow all the specific directions that the pattern provides to add the other parts of the dress.
- If the exact pattern you need something else before sewing the sides, follow the indication.
Step 3. Sew the neckline
For a simple pattern, fold about half an inch of fabric along the edge and iron it flat. Use straight stitches to sew the collar and prevent the edges from fraying. You can adjust the depth of the décolleté by measuring the distance from the waist to where you want the neckline to end and adjusting the seams accordingly.
Step 4. Hem
At the bottom of the dress, fold the edge half a centimeter and flatten it with the iron. If you have it, use a serger to secure the ends and prevent it from curling. Finally, use straight stitches to secure the hem of the dress and hold it in place.
Step 5. Refine the dress
If you wish, you can add a zipper on the back to make it easier to open. You can decide to sew lace, gathers, embellishments or beads, to give your personal touch. It's your dress and it's your chance to show off your style! Do it however you like.
Part 3 of 3: Other Types of Clothes
Step 1. Use a stretch fitted sheet to create your dress.
If you have an unused fitted sheet and want to save some money on fabric, you can learn how to turn it into a suit. The elastic in the sheet provides you with a safety band, the sheets are also very large and offer you a lot of fabric at a ridiculously low price.
Step 2. Turn your favorite skirt into a dress
If you want a cute dress in no time, you can combine your skirt with other fabric and make the dress you want. You can also consider making a simple top with fabric to then sew to the skirt - a super quick project if you're in a hurry.
Step 3. Make a flapper-style dress
If you love the 1920s or are looking for a dress for a themed party, you can sew your own flapper dress yourself. Combine a very simple dress with a few layers of fringe, some basic tailoring skills will do the rest! You'll be ready for your Great Gatsby style party.
Step 4. Sew the dress for the prom
Save some money and tailor your dream dress. Find a nice pattern, the perfect fabric and prepare your dress for the big night! People will be amazed at your style and your skills as a seamstress.
Advice
- Follow the old seamstress rule: measure twice and cut once. It is better to be foresight and spend a few more minutes rather than irreparably ruining a large portion of fabric.
- Take your time. It will be easier to make the right spots on the first try, rather than having to remove and try again.
- Have someone take your measurements who will be more accurate.
- Search for free online templates.
