Blog posts

Determining stretch percentage Stretch percentage was something that always perplexed me. Many people simply explain it as ‘the amount fabric or elastic stretches’. The reason this was confusing…
Measurements My husband and I recently started working out at home. I re-took my measurements, and realized I had lost 3/4” in my bust, 1 1/4”…
Designer brand reviews The more I make my own clothes, the more I detest ‘designer’ brands. I not only find them wildly overpriced, but they are still ready-to-wear…
Half-size Bootstrap custom dress form If you read about my experience making a Bootstrap custom dress form, you’ll know all the ways I messed it up the first time. Having that knowledge…
Bootstrap custom dress form I’ve made several duct tape dress forms in my day, none of which are still around. I’ve wanted to make a dress form of my…
Using all-purpose thread with a serger This experiment arose from necessity, as I needed to use my serger for a project that had a very unique color. However, I only had…
Professional bra-making During the GBSB 2021, there were many diverse topics covered regarding bra-making. Not only did courses cover bra pattern adjustments or fitting, it also covered…
Determining torso length This came up in a GBSB 2021 video hosted by Madalynne of Madalynne Intimates. She was talking about body suit length, and how to adjust it.…

Pattern making


Garment construction

Sewing panty elastic This video helped me a lot when first learning how to attach the elastics. I typically get my elastics from Bra Builders, as they have a decent…
Bralette support During the GBSB 2021, the science of support was a surprisingly helpful in understanding how support is built into bras and bralettes. Monica O’Rourke Bravo…
Adding a waistband with a zipper This was one of those things that had me baffled me for years. What order do you attach it in? Do you sew the zipper…
Slouch clutch Construction Cut all pieces. Construct outer body pieces, if necessary.Attach facings to lining pieces, and topstitch towards lining. Trim excess seam allowance.Attach tag to inner…
Button-down shirt Complete each block before proceeding to the next step. Step 1 Cut all pieces.Front x2, back yoke x2, back x1, sleeves x2, under collar x3,…
How to attach applique Below are simple applique techniques. I found these on p. 40 in the book sew me! sewing home decor by Choly Knight. Adhesive method Use two-sided fusible…

Tools, material, & equipment