Sewing - Upcycling schooldresses

[AlisonC]

Hello Ladies,

I was wondering how many of you enjoy the craft of sewing?

As summer is fast approaching (in Australia) I have found a fun way to create some fun new skirts for the warmer months. As some of you may know almost all schoolgirls in Australia wear a schooldress in summer. These dresses usually have a plaid print similar to a scottish kilt. Some are very cute and colourful, yet sadly some are very dull (usually goverment schools), I picked up a few with some beautiful colours and thought I'm sure I've seen high end skirts in these patterns and then uttered the famous last words....HOW HARD COULD IT BE?

It turns out not very hard at all, in most cases I can cut the dress straight across at the point the waistband fits me and simply remake a new waist. The hem is untouched and as a bonus almost all the skirts have at least one pocket.

If anyone is interested I'll post some photos of the pre and post results.

Ally

[KimberlyS]

Ally it sound like fun. I would love to see some of your finished products. I love to sew also but do not seem to get much time to do it. I even have a pile of mending I have not found time to due lately. Are you thinking of other projects to do?

[Diana Michelle]

I too would love to see some of your creations. I have always admired those who can sew and do so much. As for me? I have a tough time sewing a button back on.

[Requal Jo]

I to am all thumbs when it comes to sewing. However Alison, I understand what you are saying about the school uniforms in Australia. Some of the more elite boarding schools have very nice styles which would make comfortable and stylish skirts.

[April Rose]

I like to sew and have made aprons, skirts and dresses in the past. Recently my sewing machine has broken down and I've been agonizing over whether to get it fixed or replace it. I do embroidery, too, (some of my projects are in the photo gallery). I have another project that is nearing completion. I'll need to make that decision soon, so I can make a pillow out of the needlework.

Sewing is an engaging hobby. I know I always appreciate an outfit I have made myself more than something I bought.

I would love to see your photos, Ally!

[Anne Bonny]

I can sew buttons on, and have hand stitched to repair things but the sewing machine is a frustrating devise to me.

[Bernice]

I've done a lot of sewing over the decades... My best advice is to get a really good seam ripper, because I use my seam ripper far more than I use the sewing machine.

Skirts ARE easy - until you start stitching pleats, or trying to stitch straight waistbands onto circle skirts.

Once I figured out the math for a princess seam dress, I made several, but again, they involve a lot of stitching different shapes together, and it is really hard to make it look smooth and even.

Sewing is pretty much the only way to have certain items large enough to fit.

As I slowly go blind, sewing has less and less appeal for me.

Hugs,

Bernice