Happy weekend, my lovely readers! Recently, you might remember, I sewed a 1930's bra for myself using one of the draft-at-home patterns from my shop, Depew #610.
Many readers wrote that they were curious about my process and wanted to see more so I decided to turn the project into a mini sew-along.
While sewing this bra, I took a lot of photos, but since this was more of a "getting back into sewing therapy" project for me, I didn't take nearly enough photos of nearly enough steps so I thought, why not do it all again for a mini sew-along?
I loved this bra so much that I have no reservations at all about sewing about a dozen more of them so I'll be starting from the beginning and posting as I sew.
You're welcome to join in with me and post questions as I go. The more, the merrier!
If you'd like to follow along, here is what you'll need:
1. The pattern comes in two different versions Digital (if you want to print at home) or Print (if you'd rather get goodies in the mail).
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| The 1930's bra pattern I'll be using. |
2. Fabric: You'll need about 1/2 yard of 36" or wider fabric, plus the same for an optional lining (I used light weight silk so I lined mine). You'll also want about 1/2 yard of muslin for a test version.
This is a great pattern to use up fabric scraps, or the great vintage silk scarves you scored at the thrift shop and then never wore.
Tip: I got my lovely silk fabric, and the silk ribbon I used for the straps online at Farmhouse Fabrics for a really great price!
3. Notions: I recommend a purchased bra back for this project but you can also use hooks and eyes or buttons. For mine, I used a French bra back closure - It's the only bra back closure I think I'll ever use on my bras, it's just so comfortable! You'll also want about 1 yard of ribbon, bra strap elastic, or purchased bra straps.
4. Drafting tools. You most likely have these on hand already bust just in case, you'll need the following:
Pencil with eraser
Large paper (I use tracing paper but you can also use a paper bag or pattern making paper).
Paper scissors
Ruler
Tape
1 thumb tack
French curve (optional).
In the next post, I'll be going over how to draft out the pattern to your size and how to make adjustments to the pattern to make sure that it's accurate and easy to sew.
If you're curious how the draft-at-home patterns work, you can check out this blog post. It really takes something a bit intimidating and makes it quite easy!
I hope you'll join me!
Happy sewing,
Update: Here is a list of the posts!
- Drafting your pattern.
- Sewing your bust darts.
- Adding Spider-Web Silk Rosettes.
- Re-purposing Blouses to Make Bras.
- Straps, Closures, and the finished bra!
Ooh, this sounds like a lot of fun. Now that I am almost done nursing, I need something pretty to replace the hideous nursing bras I have been wearing for the past year.
ReplyDeleteWow, this should be interesting - and it would be a terrific introduction for new fans of your work to learn about sewing with your lovely patterns. :) Consider me on the bandwagon! *LOL*
ReplyDeleteP.S. So good to hear you doing well - I'm sorry I haven't been around much lately, but life has a way of keeping us all on our toes, yes? ;)
I hope you don't mind, but I've included a link in my blog - your blog in general, your etsy shop in general, and to this posting regarding this particular mini sew-along. I hope I didn't commit an internet sin or serious breach of etiquette...? Mea culpa, if so :(
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link, Mugsy! Here in the blogosphere, that's actually a really nice thing to do... The real world equivalent of giving someone a huge compliment! You're such a sweetie!
DeleteCan this bra offer support for a bust with a 38 band size and a J or K bust size?
ReplyDeleteDefinitely! If you use some good quality elastic straps and a hook and eye closure, you should get the support you'll need.
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