Handmade General

[Anonymous No.9469017]

Old thread is dead.

What's everyone working on? Any projects lined up now that finals season is winding down? Any recent accomplishments? Anyone found any unique accessories to add to a piece?

[Anonymous No.9469043]

>>9469017
Where are y'all getting your lace? My local fabric store was a bust

[Sage No.9469047]

>>9469043
Aliexpress has options, but ideally taobao.

[Anonymous No.9469050]

>>9469043
eBay, my dude. There's a lot of seriously cheap lace, and from here: https://shop57955164.m.taobao.com/?refer=https%3A%2F%2Fsys.4chan.org%2Fderefer%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flaces.world.taobao.com%252F
Honestly Walmart has some nice cotton lace for a few bucks per spool

[Anonymous No.9469590]

I just finished this skirt this morning. I'm not 100% happy with, I had a lot of trouble getting the waist band to be the right size. I may still take it all out and do it again. Apologies for the shit tier photo, I haven't had time to properly photograph it.

I just preordered the new ONS, I'm really excited about that! It's also apparently way cheaper to buy them from Amazon.jp instead of picking them up at the Kinokuniya, which is just weird to me.

[Anonymous No.9469711]

>>9469590
This looks cute anon! I'd love to see it on a mannequin

[Anonymous No.9469827]

>>9469043
I get my lace from LaceKing on Ebay, they sell lolita-like lace for really good prices. The only problem is the wait because it ships from Korea

[Anonymous No.9469890]

>>9469043
I just order some lace for a project from laces.world.taobao.com but ideally I'd like to find somewhere local to source decent lace. There's one good haberdashery a few towns over from me but it's difficult to get there. I really don't understand why most places only stock that nasty cheap lace; do people actually use it? It's so ugly.

[Anonymous No.9469975]

Anyone here make their own cardigans? I'm wanting to bulk out my wardrobe for more everyday wear now that i've got a proper job. Do you use a knit fabric or chiffron

[Anonymous No.9471172]

>>9469711
Thanks anon! I don't own a mannequin, unfortunately, but I plan on coording it for our next meetup. I might throw something together at home so I can post it first though!

[Anonymous No.9471246]

>>9469975
>chiffon cardigan

What.

[Anonymous No.9471256]

>>9471246
quite common. I don't sew my own cardigans because my skills simply are not good enough, but I have 2 chiffon ones from IW . They are great for summer.

[Anonymous No.9471360]

Going through my sewing box and found quite a bit of this lace. I think I bought it during my ita sewing phase, it's pretty stiff but not scratchy. Could it be used for anything or should I donte it somewhere?

[Anonymous No.9471367]

>>9469043
on a related note, anyone here making their own? I'm mainly dabbling at the moment and haven't really had the patience to complete anything as it seems as soon as I get the technique down I just cant be bothered anymore.
Anyone got any tips for motivating yourself to finish a piece?

[Anonymous No.9471375]

>>9471367
I set aside time and say "I can't do anything else until I hit this benchmark". Sometimes I Netflix while I craft but if it's too distracting try music videos or maybe radio or podcast.

[Anonymous No.9471376]

>>9471360
doesn't look like anything you'd want on a main piece but if you've got enough maybe you could use it on the hem of a petticoat or something.

[Anonymous No.9471381]

>>9471367
How do you even get into that? It looks so intimidating.
>>9471376
Oh that's a good idea, thanks anon!

[Anonymous No.9471391]

>>9471360
I would just toss it or if you're feeling generous, use it to teach a younger family member how to make crafts (I teach my little cousin to sew and give her my fabric scraps and trim I don't want). I don't think you can make that look good

[Anonymous No.9471405]

>>9471367
I started crocheting my own lace about a year ago, I haven't quite dove into bobin lace but I love crocheting it! I usually crochet the lace right onto the piece, usually at hems and sleeves. I just think it looks so cute!

[Anonymous No.9471429]

>>9471405
Nice, I've just moved from tatting to crochet lace but its hard, I know how to do basic crochet but it feels like this is a massive leap.

[Anonymous No.9471472]

>>9471367
I do some tatting and been learning bobbin recently. I don't usually do big projects, but I have done two longer tatted pieces when tabling at local craft event. One of them is in a blouse I made, the other one is still unused. I usually put some goals to myself when making these like "I will finish this part today", and watch some shows that don't need much attention (sitcoms etc).

[Anonymous No.9471542]

Has anyone tried shortening the shirring on their dress? I looked up tutorials and it seemed pretty simple.
Like you rip the seam and pull some of the elastic to tighten it, would this be the best way to go?

[Anonymous No.9471550]

>>9471256
I think a garment like this is considered more of a bolero. Cardigan implies the piece is knit.

>>9471367
I machine embroider lace onto accessories. I plan on opening an Etsy soon with some pieces. I've never tried hand making lace but it sounds like a ton of fun.

[Anonymous No.9471552]

>>9471256
Nayrt but those are referred to as boleros, generally

[Anonymous No.9471556]

>>9471542
Yes, that's exactly what you should do. But be careful - I removed the shirring in a Meta piece once and they sewed it in some sort of bizarre way that sewed the seam and the elastic at the same time. It was a giant pain sewing it back up. Hopefully whatever dress you have isn't constructed like that.

[Anonymous No.9471605]

Been sitting on this fabric for almost a year. Eventually wanting to turn it into a JSK, but I only have three yards so it has to be simpler. Sorry for shitty lighting.

[Anonymous No.9471697]

>>9471605
(I think you've got it upside down) The one thing with a print like that is making sure the placement is tidy and you line your pieces up well.

[Anonymous No.9471709]

>>9471550
If you use this referral link to sign up for an etsy, both you and I will get 40 free listings. Otherwise they charge you 20 cents USD for each listing. Win-win.

[Anonymous No.9471711]

>>9471709
And then I remembered the link.
http://etsy.me/2q3l1OY

[Anonymous No.9471719]

Does anyone know which patterns are in Eternita vol 1?

[Anonymous No.9471744]

>>9471360
if you're into oldschool, you can make sock toppers a'la Meta

[Anonymous No.9471755]

>>9471711
Thanks anon. Unfortunately I already have an Etsy shop from a past side hustle, otherwise I'd totally use your link!

[Anonymous No.9471758]

>>9471744
>a'la Meta
Thanks for the kek, and yeah that's an idea! Thanks!

[Anonymous No.9471827]

>>9469043
Also an option but not super accesible is antique shops.

My grandma got this turn of the century sewing kit for $20 or so that was filled to brim with hand tatted cotton lace and trim. As well as cotton and silk thread and embroidery floss.

Of course it requires some effort and alot of looking. But if you find anything it can make your handmade pieces all the more special.

[Anonymous No.9471895]

>>9471755
Good luck with your venture though! Share your shop eventually.

[Anonymous No.9471961]

This may seem like a dumb question but are there any Etsy/Handmade designers that are really successful and look good? I like the idea of buying handmade but so much handmade looks like a 12 year old made it.

[Anonymous No.9471989]

>>9471961
My favourite Etsy shop is Peacockalorum.
I own a few things from there and they are all really well constructed and reasonably priced.
I don't like all the design choices, but they also do custom orders so it's easy to tweak things to be suit my coords.

[Anonymous No.9472023]

>>9471605
You could also do a bustle skirt. I like bustle JSKs when I'm short on my main fabric, because you leave off a big part of the skirt for the chiffon ruffles to come through.

[Anonymous No.9472049]

Are the Tea and Treadle patterns any good? The examples are ugly as fuck but with some actual good quality fabric they seem like they might be nice.

[Anonymous No.9472139]

>>9472049
I own the Little Betty JSK, and it looks alright. It's next in my queue in some... maybe questionably Lolita fabric. I'll definitely post a review once I get around to it.

[Anonymous No.9472140]

>>9472139
And I posted the wrong colorway. Sigh.

[Anonymous No.9472407]

>>9472049
I don't own any of these patterns, but based on what I see on the website, none of these are worth the money. Sweet Caroline looks the worst of all. The example doesn't even fit the dressform correctly, and those pintucks are awful. Why would anyone want pintucks that wide? Susie Q is questionable if only for there not being any back view, and why on earth are the sleeve cuffs elastic? It makes the design look cheap. Little Betty looks to be the nicest of the lot, but the princess seams are a bit awkward IMO and the skirt looks too short.

My advice to anyone who wants to make a JSK or OP similar in silhouette to the Tea and Treadle patterns is this: Just buy a damn commercial pattern with a bodice you like, and add a skirt to it. Cupcake skirts and ruffles only require the most basic math skills, and once you have a few bodices under your belt it's very simple to extend a back pattern piece to make shirring. Commercial patterns offer so many convenient fitting options - girls with big tits can buy patterns with different options for cup sizes, among other things. I just think Tea and Treadle's patterns are too basic and unrefined to purchase.

[Anonymous No.9472441]

>>9471605
This fabric actually looks just like my restroom wallpaper, I love it. I think if you did a simple skirt, it'd be cute!

[Anonymous No.9472471]

>>9472407
I pretty much bought Little Betty cause it was on sale, and it'd give me something to start from when making something with an overskirt. I wouldn't bother with the other two at all.

[Anonymous No.9473064]

>>9471989
Thank you, Good Taste Anon!

[Anonymous No.9473071]

>>9472407
Definitely agreeing with this anon, those patterns aren't worth the money and they honestly look bad in my opinion, like they're cheap.
Either get commercials patterns or learn to make your own bodice patterns, once you start getting into it you'll really get into a rhythm and be able to make any bodice you want that fits you perfectly. I'm currently working on making some cosplay patterns for a workshop I'm doing, after I'm done with that I could make some JSKs patterns <<for free>> if anyone's interested.

[Anonymous No.9473207]

>>9471961

Eat Me Ink Me used to be an etsy store. Not sure why they moved to tictail.

[Anonymous No.9473208]

>>9471472

This is pretty cute. How long does it take to make lace long enough to go around, say, a sleeve?

[Anonymous No.9473254]

>>9473071
How did you learn to make your own patterns? I think my local fabric store offers some classes but do you think it's possible to teach yourself?

[Anonymous No.9473260]

How do you make this connection from gathered skirt to shirring? Do you stretch the shirred part out to connect it so that the skirt stretches with the bodice, or do you sew it on with it unstretched such that the waistline does not move?

[Anonymous No.9473264]

>>9473254
That's how I learned! I taught myself through watching a metric fuckton of YouTube videos and equally as much trial and error. My biggest piece of advice is don't be afraid to suck at it. The first couple patterns you do might be wonky as hell, but don't give up! Every new pattern you make you learn something new and improve on something else. Also, cheap fabric/muslin/old sheets will be your best friend. Every new pattern I draft out I make a prototype of using old fabric, then start making adjustments from that initial prototype piece. Also go out and buy a cheap pattern from Walmart, open it up and study how the garments are out together. You'll be able to piece together how to build your own clothes, then have the superpower of seeing a dress you love and being able to recreate it in your head. Once you get the hang of how to make pieces get yourself a copy of Otome no Sewing and the other magazine I can't think of at the moment. With being able to make your own patterns, making things from those magazines will be a breeze for you!

[Anonymous No.9473275]

>>9473260
The way I do it it making that section of the skirt that meets the shirring panel a totally separate skirt panel, then pinning that skirt panel to fit the bodice shirring panel and then after that is when I had that final elastic channel either by having made a section for a tunnel near the bottom of the bodice shirring panel above the seam to the skirt, or I just do the fast version and sew the elastic right above the new seam. After they're connected is when I flip the dress inside out and attach the separate skirt panel to the rest of the skirt. In my experience having that section of skirt be separate helps keep the back of the dress nice with no weird bunching up of fabric. I hope that made sense,

[Anonymous No.9473288]

>>9473254
Modify the shit out of existing patterns, eventually you'll figure out how they work. Also, have a good dress form to drape on.

[Anonymous No.9473293]

>>9473260
What i do is make the back skirt panel slightly longer than the front skirt, by however much your shiring panel is, then i gather the skirt and sew it into the bodice with the shiring either stretched out or not in, the order really depends on what all your doing to the dress such as linings, shiring channels, what have you. Because you sewed it in with the shiring panel flat when the elastic scrunchs up it it will scrunch the skirt with it, and since you made the back longer to accommodate the shiring panel it won't look weird and squashed in the back when the shiring gets stretched out

[Anonymous No.9473295]

>>9473275
not that anon but that's a good idea, especially if you're doing elastic channels, ill have to remember that

[Anonymous No.9473329]

>>9469975
I've made a few using knit fabric. Do you have a serger?

[Anonymous No.9473332]

>>9471961
I really like Lilly of the Valley, but afaik she only sells accessories and makes dresses for herself.

[Anonymous No.9473503]

any tips for making a cage petticoat? i think i've got the basic idea down but i'm unsure of what boning or whatever to use

[Anonymous No.9473585]

>>9473503
doxiequeen1 made a video about making panniers recently and she mention some stuff about boning which I imagine would still apply.

[Anonymous No.9473612]

>>9473332
I thought she had a storenvy or something where she sold dresses? I know for a fact I saw the unicorn print she did for sale by her just a few weeks ago.

[Anonymous No.9473615]

>>9473585
>>9473503
Is plastic boning stiff enough to hold a cage?

[Anonymous No.9473708]

>>9473615
If this is something you're going to be sitting on, do NOT use plastic boning. Plastic boning can get bent or warped so easily, especially when you're sitting on it and the combined pressures of your body weight and body heat are sitting on top of the cage. Use hoop steel.

[Anonymous No.9473850]

What is this type of fabric called? I feel stupid.

[Anonymous No.9473923]

>>9473850
Faux fur?

[Anonymous No.9473937]

>>9473503
I've made a blog post about it but feel bad posting it. Basically use this boning.

>http://corsetmaking.com/hoop-boning/CMS-WSB2-CR.html

[Anonymous No.9473974]

Definitely wanna do an OTT coord for ILD. Any suggestions/tutorials on how to make one of those giant OTT staffs? I'm making it to match the magic amulet long jsk in wine so any suggestions for embellishments are much appreciated.

[Anonymous No.9473978]

>>9473974
Doesn't Batty have a tutorial?

[Anonymous No.9473986]

>>9473978
She does! Thank you! Still need suggestions for the topper as pumpkins won't do for this.

[Anonymous No.9473991]

>>9473986
You could probably find a Sailor Cosmos cosplay tutorial or a blog of someone talking about how they made their staff, and on the center amulet you could have one of the magic symbols from the dress on it. I'd recommend doing it out of resin and making it so the symbol looks like it's floating within the orb itself.

[Anonymous No.9473999]

>>9473991
Or an antique clock face, now that I'm actually looking at the bodice of the dress lol

[Anonymous No.9474042]

>>9473999
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUscV8_eLaU I found this tutorial and I think I'll use this method with a handpainted orb. I kinda wanna look like a sorceress lol

[Anonymous No.9474055]

>>9473850
Might count as minky!

[Anonymous No.9474162]

>>9474042
If you're doing a handpainted orb and want it bigger than that, you could try getting two plastic bowls, cutting the edges off and gluing those together. That'd be a lot easier/faster imo

[Anonymous No.9474179]

Speaking of staffs, I'm planning a cult party coord pretty soon that leans heavy on the sleepwear style. I was kind of wanting to do a staff that looks a lot like a nightlight, glowing and all. It shouldn't be hard to make, but would that go well in cult party or should I just leave it for OTT sweet?(Sorry if this is off topic, I'm not sure where else I should ask)

[Anonymous No.9474291]

>>9473937
Ah I wanna read the blog post! you should post it, if you don't mind

[Anonymous No.9474326]

Do you think it's possible to make your own rocking horse shoes without it looking stupid as all hell?

[Anonymous No.9474342]

>>9474326
if you can work with wood or foam and pleather, I would say go for it.

I once wanted to make my own shoes too, but I'm not skilled enough to work with materials that aren't regular fabrics

[Anonymous No.9474370]

>>9474291
Alright, it's here. My blog really needs work...
>http://fuwa-fuwa-fashion.blogspot.com/2016/08/lolita-fashion-hoop-skirtcage-petti.html

[Anonymous No.9474373]

>>9474291
>>9474370
Also, it's a good idea to go in with a friend for the twill tape if you go that route, I have loads left.

[Anonymous No.9474392]

>>9473208
I don't remember how long it took to make those, but maybe something like 20cm per hour?

[Anonymous No.9474561]

>>9473708

You don't sit on cage skirts. You lift them out of the way and shove them to the front of the chair when you sit down.

[Anonymous No.9474563]

>>9474392

Huh, that's actually not too bad.

Thanks for the reply.

[Anonymous No.9474633]

>>9474370
Thanks so much omg, that was really helpful!!

[Anonymous No.9475039]

>>9474633
Awesome, I'm glad you found it helpful! They are pretty quick to make too, lots of straight seams and only a few places of hand sewing.

[Anonymous No.9475135]

Anyone here ever made their own 'release'? Have you designed your own set with dress, shoes, tights, accessories? Even if you haven't made it or don't have the funds to bring it to life,
>sobs into sketchbook

[Anonymous No.9475175]

Stupid question incoming:
Is the difference between cupcake/bell and A-line actually a difference of how the fabric is cut/construction or is it purely from petticoat shape?

[Anonymous No.9475190]

>>9475175
It's mostly construction. Bell skirts are rectangles that are gathered at the waist. A-lines aren't gathered at the waist, they get their volume from having trapezoidal skirt panels that are wider at the hem. There are also a few skirt cuts (like tiered skirts) that can be worn as either, depending on what petticoat you wear underneath.

[Anonymous No.9475191]

>>9475175
Bell is typically a rectangle gathered at the waist whereas A-line is usually a trapezoid shape.

[Anonymous No.9475193]

>>9475135
I wouldn't say dress and tights, but I didn't make wristcuffs, shoeclips, head accessories, jewelery, all to match this dress I bought when I first started lolita. I kinda miss how being broke and having a bunch of lace and ribbons I got at an old ladies garage really motivated me to be creative. Now I just buy everything.

[Anonymous No.9475200]

>>9475175
Bell-shape is achieved by gathering a rectangle, A-line is achieved with multiple panels that are wider at the bottom than at the top, or (rarely in lolita) a circle skirt. I think it's also possible to make more of a bell shape with panels but you don't see that very often.
Tiered skirts that consist of several rows of gathered rectangles can also end up looking more A-line than bell, because the flare increases the further down you go. In that case it depends more on the petticoat.

[Anonymous No.9475525]

I have plans to make a really cute dress like this one day. I've always been a sucker for gingham too. What do you gulls think?

[Anonymous No.9475645]

>>9475525
Maybe it's the shitty chinese cartoon art style, but the dress design looks very undetailed and basic.

[Anonymous No.9475649]

>>9475525
>are those hands backwards?
It's cute, I'm a huge fan of gingham as well so I say go for it! It'll be a nice easy project.

[Anonymous No.9475671]

>>9475200
Yeah, I just made a tiered skirt with the standard 2, 3, 4x waist and my poofy bell gets strangled underneath it. Luckily I have an a line petti coming in the mail, so that'll mitigate the problem.

[Anonymous No.9475683]

>>9475671
I did a 3, 4, 5x three tiered dress and was ready to commit seppeku doing that hemline.

[Anonymous No.9475689]

>>9475645
Gingham dresses are usually pretty basic due to the print, anon. Besides, not everything has to be covered in bows and lace.

[Anonymous No.9475701]

Kinda on topic? Wondering about western independent Lolita shops like belladonna/sweet Mildred/luminescentea. I'd love more quality recommendations if anyone has any (or if any of you have a store!)

[Anonymous No.9475705]

>>9475689
I agree, sometimes less is more.

[Anonymous No.9475769]

>>9475701
Elegy, I think it's called. I'm pretty sure it's a Lolita shop bases in Ohio

[Anonymous No.9476027]

>>9471605
Considering using this pattern for that fabric, but I'm not sure the shape even counts as Lolita and I've been saving that fabric for a Lolita dress...

[Anonymous No.9476040]

>>9476027
I think it counts, it's just long. Some people don't think the really long dresses are lolita, so I think it's really up to personal opinion.

[Anonymous No.9476222]

>>9474370
Anon I really like your blog, keep up the good work!

[Anonymous No.9476243]

>>9475683
...My basting stitches for the last tier broke and I had to do the whole thing over. Twice. I definitely was ready to kill.

The stupid thing is I own a ruffling foot for my machine, but I haven't quite figured out how to get it to ruffle to the right ratios.

Stupid hemming sucked too. So awful.

[Anonymous No.9476253]

>>9475701
I just started my shop this year, though the made to order items are non available at the time (I'm quite busy with making cosplays for customers atm). everything will be running again at the end of august, but you can check my shop here: atelierpastelchan.tictail.com

[Anonymous No.9476254]

>>9475525
I like this design, it's cute, though not my color.

[Anonymous No.9476508]

>>9476243
I know that pain.
I had a ruffle foot for a little while but it really just sucked and it never ruffled in a way that I liked. I either do the tension trick to get perfect ruffles or I do what I saw a pin up seamstress do: instead of a normal basting stitch do a large zigzag stitch but have dental floss/thin slippery ribbon under the stitch so you can easily gather the fabric with a thicker string you don't have to worry about snapping, then stitch over as usual.

[Anonymous No.9476522]

>>9476243
I make tutus for a living and let me tell you, ruffle feet love to fuck up. I find them most useful for lightweight fabric like chiffons and tulles, I don't use them that often when I make lolita because I feel they never ruffle cottons or thicker fabric to my liking. What I do is sew two lines of basting stitches using the heavy duty thread that they sell for sewing denim. Its really easy if you have a twin needle. Sometimes I sew heavier weight fabric with like, 4 lines of basting. Not sure if it actually does help but it makes me feel better.

[Anonymous No.9476527]

Where do you guys buy your sewing patterns?

[Anonymous No.9476531]

>>9476527
Hobby Lobby will have 1$ pattern sales once in awhile, so when those happen I swoop in like a vulture and buy the max they allow per customer. I also like poking around any kind of secondhand shops for discarded patterns, even if they aren't in my size you can figure out pretty easily how to downsize/upsize it. Then of course scouring around online for free patterns/scans,

>yo captcha you and I have to have a talk about what a 'storefront' is

[Anonymous No.9476606]

>>9476222
Thanks anon! It is difficult to stay motivated because hardly anyone ever comments on blog posts so I really appreciate the encouragement. Blogs really seem a thing of the past, but I really prefer reading vs videos, since I rarely can listen to a video when I'm out.

[Anonymous No.9477370]

>>9476508
>>9476522
Oh, I'm glad it's not just me that has had trouble with it. They're so confusing and the instructions that came with it did not explain it well at all.
I really need to try the ribbon trick. I don't know why I haven't tried the floss/ribbon thing yet, I've heard it works really well.
>>9476527
I have a bunch of scans of the OnS and Gosuroris, and I'm starting to collect the OnS issues that don't have scans of the pattern pages. Joanns also occasionally has $1 pattern sales, so that's a good time to stock up. JSK-wise, look for anything that's in woven, has princess seams, and has a separate bodice and skirt section. You can hack everything else to work.
>>9469711
I'm still working on pulling this coord together, I'm pretty sure I want brown shoes instead of the white ones I have... but here's the skirt! Needs an actual a-line petti stat, though.

[Anonymous No.9477414]

>>9477370
Aww that looks really cute! Just a tip, is your waistband curved or a rectangle? It looks like it might be sitting weird but that could be the skirt underneath acting weird. If it is sitting weird curvin the waistband slightly should help with that issue!

[Anonymous No.9477448]

>>9477414
Rectangle! I've never heard of a curved waistband, do you have a tutorial handy? Thanks for the advice either way though!

[Anonymous No.9477493]

>>9477448
Yeah! I'm at work right now but I can find a tutorial for you when I get home

[Anonymous No.9477719]

>>9471719
From AP, a tote, wing themed pillow and notebook cover.

[Anonymous No.9477723]

>>9477719
Also from AP, wrist and ankle cuffs, and a head bow.

[Anonymous No.9477726]

>>9477723
And all this jazz. I want to make the little leg pins.

[Anonymous No.9477809]

>>9477448
Back again! Here's a simple tutorial for taking your rectangle waistband into a curved one, it's really simple, and doesn't take that much fabric so you can always cut out the piece, hold it up to your waist, and see what looks better. It looks like you'll need to overlap it by maybe 1/2"-3/4", judging by your picture. Another way to do it is at the sides, pinch & pin the top of the waistband until it sits right on your body, measure the amount you pinned and use that for the overlap. Hope that makes sense!
http://www.afashionablestitch.com/2015/02/how-to-create-contoured-waistband.html?m=1

[Anonymous No.9477835]

>>9475701
Not Western, but Shiroi Tsubasa is a small lolita brand from Russia. I bought a JSK from them about a year ago and I'm pretty happy with it. Pic is their latest post on Tumblr.

http://shiroitsubasa.tumblr.com/

[Anonymous No.9477871]

>>9477414
>>9477448
Seconding using a curved waistband, definitely worth th a extra effort to have it sit right!

[Anonymous No.9478511]

>>9477809
>>9477871
Hmm, okay I'll give it a go! I don't have a zipper in the skirt (primarily because I forgot to get a zipper at the store), but I have a shirring panel in the back so I think that this will still work. I'll be sure to post when I get around to fixing it!

[Anonymous No.9478861]

>>9475135

Answering for those who are thinking of making their own fullset. I don't find anything particularly impossible about making your own outfit from head to toe, all of your own design. You don't need to be a supergenius to do it, although you do need some rudimentary skills in different crafts and be willing to spend some time and money.

- You can sew a blouse, main piece and hair accessory if you have simple sewing skills. If you need a custom print, there's spoonflower (although they have some limitations on fabric type).
- For custom jewellery, learn simple beading or just putting things on chains. For custom pendants, you can go with simple polyshrink and cover them with UV resin/sealant, or polymer clay. If you can't draw for shit, hire an artist who can, or trace some free vintage image off the internet.
- For custom bags, again you can sew this, many shops sell findings such as bag clasps, bag chains, bag feet, handles, etc for you to make pretty bags with.
- For accessories like badges, flower crowns, etc, you can easily find online tutorials that gives you the basics on how to do it.

Just a note that many Otome no Sewing issues cover all of the above items (pic related), usually within one issue. There's even an issue where the bag is a rabbit plushie as well. Although some of the crafts do need some specialised supplies.

- For the tights, you can get them printed via certain sites, or paint them yourself, or sew appliques to them by hand
- For shoes, Antaina can make custom designs, although they do have some limitations

So there you go. It's all doable.

Your biggest obstacle is (a)being willing to spend time and money on turning your designs into reality, and (b)if you started designing without knowing how these things are made first, there's a high chance your designs are bullshit anyway.

Still, it's all there and available if you want to make your own fullset.

[Anonymous No.9479466]

I live in rich people hell and go to a lot of yard sales, old ladies sell the best costume jewelry for dirt cheap. Lots of cool pendants and you can pretty much always count on strings of pearls. I'm making a simple broach out of a bracelet and a cute button set. Might try to dress it up a little more?

[Anonymous No.9481423]

Anyone else still sewing winter shit? It's kind of my season and the weather still sucks so I've been making winter stuff. There are earmuffs too.

[Anonymous No.9481426]

>>9481423
Every damn time.

[Anonymous No.9481495]

>>9475135
Everytime I decide I want a new dress I kinda do that. I always tend to go for making full sets instead of single pieces.

[Anonymous No.9481513]

>>9481426
That's really pretty, anon! Great job on the pintucks!

[Anonymous No.9481577]

>>9479466

I mainly don't like the exposed metal behind the moon on the left. Does it get hidden once it's pinned on?

Kinda envious of your rich people hell. Nothing to thrift here for miles around, I'd love to come across nice costume jewellery for cheap.

[Anonymous No.9481684]

>>9481577
Oh, that was just because I had only laid the buttons and bracelet on a table to test the design. Assembled it properly, there's no exposed metal.

The area is not fun to live in but the tag sales.... oh, the tag sales are fun.

[Anonymous No.9481972]

>>9469017
hey, I kinda wanna make my own cosplays for cons b/c it should be a bit cheaper
how can i get started sewing & shit so i can learn to make this?

[Anonymous No.9481976]

>>9481972
>learn to make this
That's a picture of a spool and thread with some lace, did you reply to the wrong post? Either way: buy a sewing machine and start learning how to sew, it's pretty easy and you can find an unlimites supply of tutoritals on YouTube. For a first project I always recommend doing a rectangle skirt, they're super easy to make and don't require a pattern, just measuring. Attitude Lolita and Gertie have good tutorials on how to make those. Other than that go to Walmart or your local craft store and pick up some 'Easy Sew' patterns, they're usually cheap and made for beginners. For fabric either buy clearance cottons or go to your local thrift stores and buy old sheets to practice on, that way you don't destroy or waste expensive fabric. Join some sewing groups on fb, there's a 'Sewing for Beginners' page where you can ask questions and an army of grandmas will be there and ready to help.
And don't be disillusioned, making your own cosplay can become more expensive than buying depending on how expensive the materials are that you use, but I think handmade cosplays almost always look better than store bought.

[Anonymous No.9481977]

>>9481976
Pardon the serious typos, keyboard has been kinda wonky lately.

[Anonymous No.9482494]

>>9481972
Coming from someone that makes their own cosplays, unless you're buying custom commissions, it's definitely not cheaper to make from scratch. Especially when you're starting out, there's a lot of upfront costs that add up fast. I fully support anyone that wants to make their own cosplays, I find it much more rewarding than bought ones, but if your sole motivation is saving money you're gonna have a rough time.

[Anonymous No.9482577]

>>9481972
same poster
I just woke up when i posted this & >>9481976 has it right. i wanted more of a quality cosplay than a cheap one

anyways, just won an ebay auction for a sewing machine for like $40. i'm gonna go ahead & start practicing with it & will find a cosplay to do with it in the future

[Anonymous No.9482934]

>>9481426
This is so lovely! How long have you been sewing?

[Anonymous No.9483088]

>>9471472
This is so pretty. I should not pick up a new hobby though... How hard was it to learn?

[Anonymous No.9483149]

>>9482934
I learned when I was a teenager, around ten years ago, but I've really only gotten good in the last 3 or so. I started taking my first sewing class two months ago. Lolita is a lot more about good design than sewing imo.

[Anonymous No.9483182]

>>9483088
I'm fast learner so I picked it up straight away. It was a 2 day course I learned this, and at the end of the second day there still were people who didn't get it right. So I can't really tell how hard it is, it was easy for me but really hard for others. It's basically two knots you repeat to infinity but it's easy to mess up. But good luck if you pick it up, it's really relaxing!

[Anonymous No.9483200]

How do you guys finish the hems of your skirts/blouses/etc?
I am a noob and usually just zig-zag them, but the finish is not pretty.
Also when trying to add ruffles to something, keeping the top part of the ruffles can get messy.

On a side note, do you need to use a manekin to keep the garment in good shape?
I have sewn two skirts and one OP, and the skirt always ends up uneven, one side longer than the other. So, I wondered if having a maneking would help, but where I live I can't find anywhere to buy them. Only on the internet, and shipping goes very high.
any tips/tricks?

Thanks anons and sorry for blogpost. This has been bothering me for a while.

[Anonymous No.9483206]

>>9483200
Personally I use a serger to finish edges, but zigzag works too if you don't feel like buying an entirely new machine. It's not like anyone can really tell. I mean... you do realize you're supposed to fold the hem over so the raw edge is tucked away, right?

[Anonymous No.9483263]

>>9483200
You know to fold the hem over right? If you do a double fold you can encase the raw edge...

And no, if your skirt is uneven it means you have cut it unevenly, a mannequin does not help you learn to measure and cut properly.

It really sounds like you should look at construction basics.

>>9477370
Did you interface your waistband at all? It kinda looks like it needs some.

[Anonymous No.9483272]

>>9483263
Yep, I interfaced it fully, expect for in the shirring panel in the back. Maybe I need a heavier duty interfacing?

[Anonymous No.9483277]

>>9483272
I think the interfacing is fine, the waistband just needs curved because it's so tall.

[Anonymous No.9483289]

>>9483277
Maybe I should make the waistband shorter? I did three rows of shirring. I kind of cobbled together a bunch of tutorials.

[Anonymous No.9483497]

>>9483200
see if you can find a cheap serger, I've got mine for around 100, and it works wonderful (Singer).

getting things uneven means you just measured unevenly or stitch uneven. make sure you measure everything on multiple places and stitch even seams (most machines have little lines next to the foot that are for measuring the seams)

[Anonymous No.9483510]

>>9483263
>>9483200
>French seams
My favorite way desu. It looks so nice.

[Anonymous No.9483512]

>>9483510
My autocorrect is a troll, *desu not desu.

[Anonymous No.9483683]

>>9483200
Measure twice and cut once, my friend. Take the time to really measure your skirts before cutting and then measuring your seam allowance. Agreeing with the other anons, I think French seams are the best way to go with finishing edges, but when I'm in a hurry I'll just pink the edges and do a super simple rolled hem. Mannequins/dress forms are super nice to have, but they won't really help if things are coming out uneven. Maybe use a larger cutting surface so you can measure things a bit better?


Also, had my own question for the thread: are there any guides/tutorials/patterns for A-line skirts that are appropriate for lolita in terms of volume? Or does anyone have their own method of making an A line?

[Anonymous No.9483749]

>>9483683
Otome no Sewing 7 has a lovely classic A-line JSK you could perhaps turn into a skirt.
(vk.com)(forwardslash)albums-36779752 has 6 full Otome no Sewing scans (as well as GosuRori scans) for anyone who needs them~

[Anonymous No.9483841]

>>9483683
Last thread had two patterns and a tutorial posted. https://archive.rebeccablacktech.com/cgl/thread/9421953/#9423371

Near the top is a tutorial on how to draft a flared skirt with box pleats, and low down there is both an OnS and a Gosu Rori pattern, both for high waisted a-line skirts. I do happen to have the OnS one so I'll just repost it.

[Anonymous No.9483852]

>>9483841

[Anonymous No.9483854]

>>9483852

[Anonymous No.9483875]

>>9483749
>>9483841
>>9483852
>>9483854
You guys are awesome, thank you!

[Anonymous No.9483879]

>>9481426
Did you make that collar yourself anon? I'm in love with that faux fur. Mind sharing your sources?

[Anonymous No.9483909]

>>9483854
totally forgot to hit post on the last one. whoops~

>>9483875
You're welcome anon, lol, now that it's actually complete.

[Anonymous No.9485077]

>>9483879
Yep! Fabric came from Etsy but the shop doesn't sell it anymore. Fwiw the shop was everafterfabric the pattern was from otome no sewing 8 I think. It was really easy to make! There are earmuffs too :)

[Anonymous No.9485337]

>>9485077
Augh! The search for the elusive fawn fur continues. Thanks for sharing though, I would love to see the earmuffs you made :D

[Anonymous No.9486735]

So I found this really cute lace today at joann and I've been dying to use this pattern, so I was wondering if this combo would work to make like a liz lisa-ish outfit? Not necessarily using this fabric, but planning on using some floral print.

I feel like it's missing a bit of "cutesy flair" somehow though, ribbons, golden buttons, something. Any suggestions/concrit would be appreciated!

[Anonymous No.9487003]

>>9486735

It'd make a cute tunic top if you shorten it a bit so that you can wear cute shorts under it.

If you want to use the pattern as a whole dress, I'd suggest adding shirring to the middle. Then check the hemline again after that, because at these short lengths sometimes the front or back of the skirt ends up shorter/longer than the other side (due to butts and boobs). The waist-less version looks kinda frumpy without a well-defined waist, especially in that weight of fabric they made the model's version in, and the issue with the front or back sometimes ending up shorter/longer than the other side means using a belt to define the waist afterwards is a bit less ideal (unless you're pretty flat on both sides)

As for upping the cutesy flair, it helps if you start thinking of the final coord you want to use it in. The lace and floral fabric is a good start, but to really get to finish line you need cute shoes, cute bag, nice hair style, etc etc. The floral looks cute, but do use a drapey material so that it flows nicely and doesn't sitck out oddly. .

[Anonymous No.9487086]

>>9477809
>>9477871
Personally, i almost always prefer a wide yoke to a waistband on skirts; which is also a convenient opportunity for shirring if you want to go the extra mile for a snug and comfortable fit. But if you're going for a waistband, this great advice, and it definite suits the style of OP's skirt.

I made this lazy wrist cuff walk through a while ago with recycled fanplusfriend lace and finally got around to compiling it. Let me know if you have any improvements. It'd be fun to do a more ornate pair like this with two layers of tulle lace at different lengths and a more ornate accent.

[Anonymous No.9487254]

>>9487003
I wasn't expecting such a well though out response, thank you very much! A tunic sounds nice, I'll try playing around with the idea.

[Anonymous No.9488095]

>>9469975
i made one to emulate the sweet era just before ott sweet, so i used a knit somewhere between the feeling of jersey and cutsew fabric. i got it around springtime at the local fabric store with their spring collection since i tend to overheat in anything thicker.

[Anonymous No.9488106]

>>9473275
im trying to understand what you write but im ESL and more visual leaner, can you maybe draw up a diagram? id really appreciate it

[Anonymous No.9488108]

>>9474179
I think a really cute look for this would be one of those large shepherds crook and a cute lantern hanging on that?

[Anonymous No.9489289]

>>9488106
I'll try!

1) so if you're making a dress with a shirring panel (back of the dress that's stretchy) sometimes it's kind of hard to compensate for the stretch. What I do is make an entirely separate skirt panel for the shirring panel, a lot of my brand dresses are built that way. So to do this you have two different sections of the skirt. The MAIN skirt panel that is sewn everywhere on the bodice except the shirring panel, and the SHIRRING skirt panel that is only sewn to the shirring panel on the bodice. Attach the MAIN skirt panel as usual. After that you should have the back of the skirt missing, that missing section is your SHIRRING skirt panel. On the drawing the top of that SHIRRING skirt panel is labeled 'A', and the bottom of the shirring panel is labeled 'A', that's because those two sections have to match in measurement. The SHIRRING skirt panel has to fit onto the bodice shirring panel.

- IMPORTANT: the SHIRRING skirt panel has to be wide enough to fit the bodice shirring panel when it's completely stretched out. -

2) Next, flip the dress inside out and simply sew the SHIRRING skirt panel onto the bodice shirring panel. This might be kind of annoying because you have to stretch out the bodice shirring panel to sew everything together. Go slow!
3) So this is where you add your last elastic channel, either by having a ready made channel on the bodice, or you can just sew the elastic straight onto the new seam. After that, sew the sides of the SHIRRING skirt panel to the rest of the skirt. And you're done!
I hope that helped, if not let me know and I can explain more!

[Anonymous No.9489416]

>>9489289
is the seperate section youre adding gathered? or does the gathers come from sewing to the stretch of the shirring? like is it a peice like the rest of the skirt would be or a flat ungathered rectangle
thank you for the diagram!

[Anonymous No.9489716]

>>9489416
Yes, the separate section is gathered just like the rest of the skirt, so when it gets stretched out it's still gathered and doesn't look flat. I'm glad the diagram helped!

[Anonymous No.9489729]

I'm going to the AP event in August and as it's a huge thing I'd like to do something speciala nd unique to add to my coord. I was thinking of doing something like this bustle with the Magical Etoile apron skirt, but I don't know if I should do that or an overskirt, or both.

[Anonymous No.9489767]

>>9489729
I think underskirts really only look good with classic, unless the dress is too short to begin with and it's kind of a necessity
A side bustle like in your pic would look really cute

[Anonymous No.9489768]

>>9489767
Gahh I read your post wrong.
Def go with a side bustle, both would be too overwhelming

[Anonymous No.9490103]

I've hurt my neck and upper back sewing a skirt today. Anything you gulls do to prevent getting aches and pains while sewing?

I just need to do a final ruffle and waistband for the skirt I'm making and then I can move on to the ridiculously OTT dress I'm making for DMC.

[Anonymous No.9490141]

>>9490103
I was planning on getting one of those back support bands, but it was of horrid quality so I had to sent it back.

might want to look into something like that, but I guess you'll have to shell out a bit of money for one of those higher end ones

[Anonymous No.9490158]

>>9490103
Honestly the best thing you can do is lame stuff: make sure you have good posture while sewing, have good lighting so you don't have to hunch over the machine to see what you're doing, have your stations separate so you're forced to move around more, and take frequent breaks to get up and stretch. I get horrible aches in my upper back when I sew and forget to keep good posture.

[Anonymous No.9490923]

>>9490103
really important to have your chair at the right height. i learnt that the hard way. you cant sit proper even if you think you are if your chair is fucking you over

[Anonymous No.9490934]

just finished this hat i tend to go over bored on adding things on so i held myself back still feel it needs beads or something

[Anonymous No.9490948]

>>9490934
Those feathers looks sad and change the leafs to something not so plastic looking ones. Also learn to use commas and dots, it hurts to read

[Anonymous No.9490959]

>>9490948
1. i think its just the angle 2. your probably right i think i might try and paint them or something like that 3. i type however i want fck you

[Anonymous No.9490962]

>>9490934
>>9490934
This still has way too much going on, you don't need flowers, feathers, a charm, and what I'm guessing is some kind of veil? Also, the flowers are way too big, the black feathers look like scraggly crow feathers you'd find on the sidewalk, and the white feather makes no sense.

[Anonymous No.9490973]

>>9490962
that just seems to be your personal taste i think it came out very well

[Anonymous No.9490976]

>>9490959
>>9490948
>it's just the angle
Different anon here agreeing that the feathers look pretty rough, along with the shaggy trimming. You'll have to invest in higher quality materials if you want to sell to people in a luxury fashion, anon.

Also it's hard to judge this as a hat without seeing it on a head of some kind.

[Anonymous No.9490980]

>>9490959
>>9490973
Board is 18+, summer child. Stop giving us handmade lolitas bad reputation with your ita shit

[Anonymous No.9490983]

>>9490976
its for me and me only i do have to clean it up a little

[Anonymous No.9490988]

>>9490983
Apologies, I mistook this for the crafting thread.

[Anonymous No.9490997]

>>9490980
kek

[Anonymous No.9491198]

When does the next Otome no Sewing come out?

[Anonymous No.9492616]

>>9490103
I've noticed that since I've started wearing a corset again, I've not been getting neckache when sewing; they force correct posture without being uncomfortable and also look pretty. The rest (decent chair, correct desk height, etc.) comes naturally when you can't slump over. A decent support band might help as well as what other anons have suggested

[Anonymous No.9492620]

>>9491198
The 28th? Or something like that, I preordered it earlier this month

[Anonymous No.9492622]

>>9491198
Monday, you can preorder it now

[Anonymous No.9492623]

>>9471360
I have the same lace, got it in a grab bag from my local craft store because it had some nicer pieces in it! I've used it to decorate soft furnishings in my room, looks pretty cute.

[Anonymous No.9492864]

>>9490934
It isn't cohesive and your materials are extremely tacky and rough/cheap looking. When someone gives you concrit here don't be such a bitch about it, or do us all a favor and don't post at all.

[Anonymous No.9492932]

>>9492616
I have been considering getting a corset for posture for a while so hearing that it can work makes me want to get one even more.

[Anonymous No.9493033]

>>9492622
Oh dang, didn't know it was that soon! Thanks.

[Anonymous No.9494714]

Anyone have that bat tutorial from several craft threads ago?

[Anonymous No.9495183]

>>9494714
Maybe ask it in the craft thread?

[Anonymous No.9495586]

>>9491198
Found an inside preview pic.

[Anonymous No.9495590]

>>9495586
Correction, multiple pics.

[Anonymous No.9495591]

>>9495590

[Anonymous No.9495592]

>>9495591
Last one. Otome no seeing

[Anonymous No.9495593]

>>9495592
Otome no Sewing book 10*

[Anonymous No.9495596]

>>9495593
Actually book 11. I can't even today apparently.

[Anonymous No.9495605]

>>9495586
>>9495592
I want Risa to leave.

[Anonymous No.9495632]

>>9495605
Agreed.

>>9495590
I kind of like this, but overall I'm not very impressed with this volume so far.

[Anonymous No.9495635]

>>9495632
Same, it doesn't look like there's a lot of new stuff and the newer stuff looks super meh.

[Anonymous No.9495637]

>>9495586
Is it just me or does this look kind of ita? The fabric looks thin and super cheap with gaudy looking lace. I'm guessing this is supposed to be a nod to Beauty and the Beast?

[Anonymous No.9495705]

>>9495637

Just going off the pic posted here, it looks to me like the girl just needs a much bigger petticoat. Atelier Pierrot makes a series of bustle skirts and dresses, and they look similarly sad, limp and weird if you don't shove a monster-tier petticoat under them.

The flimsy lace seems to be tulle lace fabric. AP put it on some of their releases last year, so I can see where they took the inspiration from. Not saying brand is auto not-ita, but I think it's another one of those things that will be solved with a much better petti since that will fix the limp silhoutte.

Kind of feel more iffy about >>9495592. I think they're using circle skirts, which is dodgy enough. I can't figure out if the skirt is shorter in front on purpose to show the petticoat, or it's even all around and just styled this way for the photo, or is this an accidental petti slip.

[Anonymous No.9495716]

>>9495637
No, I thought so too.

[Anonymous No.9495732]

>>9490934
Take the peacock and ostrich plume off, they don't match your red and black color scheme. Fringe lace is meant to hang downward, opt for either a good regular lace or binding ribbon in matte or velvet.

[Anonymous No.9495769]

How much of a handmade market do you gulls think there is? Considering that it is (mostly) a brand centered fashion.

I was considering making a few OP and JSK to sell but im really not sure what kindof a market there is for it.

Most of the time when I see handmade lolita pieces for sale its usually cringy and badly made, and for the most part what Ive seen that has been good has been largely smallscale and overlooked.

Also pricing? Depending on details/materials it would be around the same pricing as brand. Not sure if that would turn people off despite the craftsmanship and materials involved.

What would be some of your concerns when shopping for handmade lolita?

I want to know so I can try to address it when selling.

[Anonymous No.9495774]

I hope this is the right thread, if not just ignore it: How is Sweet Mildred's quality? I really enjoy her gourmet coffee jsk but I don't think shelling out the price for second-hand brand would be worth it if there was anything wonky to worry about.

[Anonymous No.9495777]

So I've been sketching out this dress design and would love some crit. The basic design is like, a 2-tier SK with a round collar & princess seams. There is lace inset at the princess seams and where the tiers join. The neck ruffle and hem ruffle have pink contrast trim in the middle.
Here's where it gets kinda funky, on the bottom tier there is like, a pink strip sewn on, and then some tiny skirts, bloomers, and socks appliquéd on, with either wooden mini clothespins or just another piece of applique. I'm really into the visual I've got in my head but I'm worried with applique instead of the print its a bit too kitsch and out there for lolita. Any thoughts?

Please excuse the kinda shitty sketch, I cant seem to work my tablet today. Thanks guys!

[Anonymous No.9495789]

>>9495777
Cute idea! And honestly the idea itself is kitschy (i dont mean that in a bad way at all) but I do unsterstand your concern about it visually.

An applique would be cute as long as you choose the right material and right technique of application. You probably would have to hand sew it into place to make the stitches less visible and less folky? I guess that would be the word. The wooden closepins would make a nice effect.

[Anonymous No.9495838]

I saw a lolita on YouTube paint and add bows to some thrift store shoes so I'm about to try to do the same. She used all purpose acrylic so that's what I got. Will that chip off? I also got a varnish

[Anonymous No.9495847]

>>9495774
It's okay. I have one of her jsk and thr issue I have with it is the shirring is very bulky in the back because she didn't add enough rows. Otherwise, I really haven't had any issues with it.

[Anonymous No.9495924]

>>9495769
From what I've seen jsks/ops don't sell unless they are extremely unique, excellent quality, and look good (like 4 o'clock). Otherwise people will only buy accessories offbrand.

Personally I'd buy if it fit me well, was a well constructed solid, and had a unique design. Basically 4 o'clock tier, but I rarely see her stuff for sale.

[Anonymous No.9496015]

>>9495769

Pricing and quality are going to be your killers.

The thing about brand isn't the brand. The thing about brand is still their pricing and reliability. There's so much _old_ brand floating around now, it's easy to throw $150 at a release from, say, 2010, and chances are pretty high it's going to be a lovely, wearable dress. They kind of have you beat on both pricing and reliability, although it's secondhand so there's some squick there.

For those who prefer firsthand, there's taobao. And again, pricing, reliability, and new releases kind of have you beat. There's a large handful of taobao brands that are known for being decent quality for their price, so girls are willing to buy them. And with so many taobao brands out there there's always an exciting new release every week to catch your fancy, instead of the much slower pace that the burandos used to release at.

I think the lolita market has actually gotten bigger, but the number of suppliers has also increased. You kind of have your work cut out for you, since you're expensive (or not cheap, at least), and of an unknown reliability/quality. You might want to consider how to market your brand to build up some hype (at the same time manage it so girls aren't expecting too much for the price), and how to prove that your quality is at least on par with longer-established brands. You can try for a quirky or unusual idea that no other brand has (which is why a lot of the brands do prints now), but there's no guarantee that what you're trying will be a hit with the lolitas.

[Anonymous No.9496025]

Okay, am I just completely brain dead, or is there not a single example of a basic, round collared, button up cardigan in GosuRori or OnS? I'm looking at the indie pattern market now, but $10-12 a pattern is just so... eeeeh. My top picks are New Horizons Designs Vermont Cardigan or Itch to Stitch Lisbon Cardigan-- thoughts?

[Anonymous No.9496069]

>>9495777

So kinda like btssb's She is Sleeping meets ETC's Bubble Laundry? It sounds kinda cute, actually.

Only thing I'd suggest is to work on the appliques seperately before attaching it to the skirt. That way if it gets messed up you can start over with a new panel instead of having to unpick it from the skirt. And to draw out your "border print" before you start, so you end up with a design that's cohesive and nicely distrbuted.

[Anonymous No.9496076]

>>9495789
>>9496069
Thanks guys! Ill be sure to post progress pics here!

[Anonymous No.9497026]

>https://www.corsettraining.net/shop/

Does anyone have any reviews/experience with her patterns?

Im thinking about getting a few + her corset making course but it is a bit pricey.

[Anonymous No.9497031]

>>9495769
There really isn't a market for it, people would much rather spend money on well made brand items they know rather than taking a chance on (more than likely) subpar handmade. You'd be much better off taking commissions rather than pouring money and time into dresses that most likely aren't going to sell unless you have some kind of gimmick that attracts a specific audience. Like Dollbe's dresses are meh at best but because she makes gigantic sizes she can pull on the obese lolita audience to turn a profit. Even getting commissions would be slow until you made a good name for yourself. To be totally honest I'd look at doing something else for cash or do cosplay commissions instead.

[Anonymous No.9497048]

>>9497031
>some kind of gimmick that attracts a specific audience

I didnt even think about that specifically. Now it makes sense that a lot of handmade lolita items for sale always have normcore nerd prints on them.

[Anonymous No.9500619]

Has anyone sewed a bag for themselves before? I found this sloppy tutorial and might try it sometime, that bag is cute

[Anonymous No.9500631]

>>9500619
I want to make one to match a skirt I made! I usually just change something on already existing bags so it will be my first one...

[Anonymous No.9500798]

Does anyone know where to find really cute fabric that you can't find just at a hobby lobby, walmart or a Joann's? Fabric that would be really cute for Lolita that is from overseas like Japan

[Anonymous No.9500809]

>>9500798
There are tons of shops selling Japanese fabric on Etsy.

[Anonymous No.9500823]

>>9500798
luckyfabrics on ebay, but you have to be logged in on the UK site to view them

[Anonymous No.9501115]

>>9500823
Thanks both of you! I'll definitely check them out next chance I get

[Anonymous No.9501148]

>>9500798
How comfy are you with Taobao? There's loads loliable fabric that is cheap. My go-to is Popo House. I've browsed https://shop103880190.world.taobao.com as well, but haven't actively bought anything yet.

Unrelated, my copy of Otome no Sewing 11 arrived today! Dumping poor cell photos of stuff.

[Anonymous No.9501152]

[Anonymous No.9501153]

>>9500798
How comfy are you with Taobao? There's loads loliable fabric that is cheap. My go-to is Popo House. I've browsed https://shop103880190.world.taobao.com as well, but haven't actively bought anything yet.

Unrelated, my copy of Otome no Sewing 11 arrived today! Dumping poor cell photos of stuff.

[Anonymous No.9501160]

>>9501153
I have no idea why these are uploading sideways, they're oriented correctly on my computer, sorry.

[Anonymous No.9501167]

>>9501160

[Anonymous No.9501172]

>>9501167

[Anonymous No.9501174]

What would be a good first project for someone with minimal sewing experience? i can make a mean pillowcase, but what is something not too challenging I could move onto?

[Anonymous No.9501177]

>>9501172
>>9501174
Make a fully elasticized skirt. It's literally the easiest thing in the world. There are loads of tutorials out there.

[Anonymous No.9501179]

>>9501177

[Anonymous No.9501184]

>>9501179

[Anonymous No.9501189]

>>9501184

[Anonymous No.9501190]

>>9501189

[Anonymous No.9501192]

>>9501174
Rectangle skirts are the easiest thing ever, check out Gertie's YouTube tutorial on making one, she's super thorough. After that I'd say play around with circle skirts/A-line skirts to learn how to deal with a curved hem.

[Anonymous No.9501194]

>>9501190
>>9501192
Reminder that circle skirts aren't really Lolita, but they are really good practice. And fun for normie wear!

[Anonymous No.9501196]

>>9501194

[Anonymous No.9501205]

>>9501196

[Anonymous No.9501209]

>>9501205

[Anonymous No.9501213]

>>9501209

[Anonymous No.9501216]

>>9501213

[Anonymous No.9501219]

>>9501216

[Anonymous No.9501224]

>>9501219

[Anonymous No.9501227]

>>9501224

[Anonymous No.9501230]

>>9501227

[Anonymous No.9501234]

>>9501230

[Anonymous No.9501238]

>>9501234
End dump.

[Anonymous No.9501244]

>>9501194
Of course, circle skirts don't work at all, but I kind of assumed anon knew that lol. But circle skirts are great for making casual skirts and easy-to-make skater dresses. I'd also recommend trying out some of those 'easy sew' patterns you see at walmart and joanns, they're usually pretty cheap and great platforms for more complex garments.

Thanks for the dump, btw!!

[Anonymous No.9501254]

>>9501244
Yeah, I just wanted to make it clear, just in case! And no problem, I'm really excited about a couple of patterns in here! (The one with the sheer chiffon sleeves looks like fun!) I apologize for the quality though, my phone camera is absolute crap.

[Anonymous No.9501368]

>>9501254
Thanks for the dump! Would you mind posting what the pattern pieces look like for the yellow Thumbelina JSK?

[Anonymous No.9501394]

>>9501368
Sure! Let me know if these aren't clear enough or if you want the cutting chart too!

[Anonymous No.9501397]

>>9501394

[Anonymous No.9501401]

>>9501397

[Anonymous No.9501410]

>>9501209
Requesting pics of this ensemble's pattern if that's alright! Much appreciated for the awesome dump!

[Anonymous No.9501450]

>>9501410
On it! It's a blouse/skirt/collar combo! I'm planning on making one. The shirt/collar have photo tutorials, but those are hard to photograph with detail. May do it later if I feel like it!

[Anonymous No.9501455]

>>9501450

[Anonymous No.9501457]

>>9501455

[Anonymous No.9501467]

>>9501457
All done! I'm happy to keep taking photos of shit for a while if people have requests. Do have stuff to do later, but I'll come back later tonight and fill any missed requests. I have soooo many scans of GosuRori and OnS from other kind anons, I like to think I'm giving back a bit!

[Anonymous No.9501921]

>>9501394
They look good! Thank you!

[Anonymous No.9501931]

>>9472049
If the actual pattern maker/seller can't even produce a good looking finished piece from their own pattern, I wouldn't buy from them.

[Anonymous No.9501933]

>>9474326
Why wouldn't you just buy some offbrand ones? They aren't that expensive.

[Anonymous No.9501946]

>>9500619
>>9500631

My first few lolita "sets" I sewed a matching handbag to go with the skirt from the leftover fabric. One of them featured lace ruffles all the way around and braided fabric for the handles.

It went well and the bag is pretty cute -- on its own. But after a while I realised that nothing quite so clearly spells "homemade coord" as carrying a bag that 100% is made from the exact same material as your main piece. So now, if I make a bag for my dress, I make sure to use completely differrent materials rather than what's left over from my dress/skirt.

[Anonymous No.9502086]

>>9501946
I was planning something like pic related but your comment pointed something interesting. I will probably make a simple tote with the same fabric and a totally different one for serious coords!

[Anonymous No.9502094]

bless u dump-chan

[Anonymous No.9502110]

>>9502086

Hah. That's what I originally modelled my sets after, the 2008-era when btssb still made matching print bags with their sets. Honestly I think they also stopped releasing those same-print bags for the same reason, and moved on to having special bags designed for their major set releases.

I had some ideas for making my same-print bags look less obviously like they came off the same roll of fabric as the dress, maybe you can try using some of them:
- cover the fabric in iron-on or stick-on vinyl, this will change it from a fabric bag to a vinyl bag. Downside: the bag can no longer be thrown in the washing machine

- Use the print sparingly as an accent on the bag, for eg, with the two patterns posted above, use it to make the bag flap, and then make the rest of the bag out of solid fabric. This way there's more contrast so the bag can stand out.

- Use the print as lining instead of outer fabric.

[Anonymous No.9502206]

>>9502110
Thank you! I will probably use the matching fabric only on a part of the bag as you suggested. I think it'd be cute also on a ruffle in a model like pic related.

[Anonymous No.9502244]

How hard are most of the OnS patterns to draft and enlarge for slightly larger sizes? I assume the books don't contain full size patterns like e Bibles did?

[Anonymous No.9502280]

>>9477370
That is so cute anon!

[Anonymous No.9502296]

>>9502244

OnS contains full size patterns on a paper pullout exactly like the GLB, except they're in 3 sizes (and thus slightly more confusing which one you're supposed to cut lol. )

The pattern pieces in white are the ones you have to draft yourself, generally these are large rectangles. In this pic the bodice pieces (in grey) would be printed on the pattern pullout, and the the large rectangle for the skirt you have to draft according to measurements.


>>9502206

I've honestly never seen a ruffle pillow bag not look more or less "handmade", and it's part of the appeal to look like you're carrying your pillow instead of your handbag anyway. I think you should just go ahead and make it however you like. I mean if you can't make it look polished and refined you might as well embrace the kitsch head-on.

[Anonymous No.9502321]

>>9502296
Ok, thanks much, anon that's great to know. From all the markings on the diagram pieces, I assumed I'd need to draft full size pieces from the numbers and I just wasn't getting it because I've only enlarged pattern diagrams using grid method.

[Anonymous No.9503066]

>>9502321
Here's a tutorial for resizing OnS patterns! http://jessiedressesup.blogspot.com/2015/11/otome-no-sewing-sizing-up.html
>>9502094
You're welcome!
>>9502280
Also thank you! Still have yet to fix the waistband, but, you know.

[Anonymous No.9503762]

>>9495838
yeah itll chip. try angelus paint

[Anonymous No.9503850]

>>9501213
I've seen people saying the pattern included here is for the headdress, not the dress itself - can you confirm please anon?

[Anonymous No.9503863]

>>9502296
>which one you're supposed to cut
Please don't tell me you cut these patterns directly.

[Anonymous No.9503865]

>>9503863

Dang, should have said trace insted of cut. Whoops.

[Anonymous No.9504007]

>>9501450
Thank you so much, anon!!

[Anonymous No.9504010]

>>9501933
I've heard from some people they're super uncomfortable so I wanted to make ones that had that comfortable squishiness like Eurosoft shoes have, unless the real ones are actually comfortable.

[Anonymous No.9504018]

>>9504010
Bodyline ones are squishy and fairly light for their size because the platform is dense foam but they run very narrow. Real VW and others with wood soles won't be squishy. But Bodyline ones are cheap enough to give them a try too, some people end up liking RHS, some find them hard to wear and walk in.

[Anonymous No.9504021]

>>9503066
Thank you for the tutorial, anon.

People are much more helpful here then I thought they would be, despite some of the other threads being full of shitposts

[Anonymous No.9504181]

>>9504021
Yeah, the handmade thread is usually less shitpost-y than other threads here.

[Anonymous No.9504194]

Sorry for the non-lolita self post but I made a swim suit for the first time based on the larme x one spo designs and I'm really pleased. Swim spandex isn't nearly as scary to work with as I expected. If you live somewhere beachy I'd definitely recommend trying it since normie swimsuits are so boring.

[Anonymous No.9504207]

>>9504194
That's really cute with the ruffles, anon and I like the styled photo.
What app/filters did you use to get the soft look and the bokeh sparkles? I'm asking because I make some accessories but my photos are always so potato.

[Anonymous No.9504213]

>>9504194
Cute! I've been wanting to do something like that for a while because like you said, Mormon swimsuits are so boring. And the few cute ones out there are too revealing for my taste.

[Anonymous No.9504216]

>>9504207
Meitu! As an added bonus, if you don't use it for long enough, it starts sending you flirty messages in your push notifications. I'm always opening my phone to see a Meitu notification saying "Hey, you haven't played with me in so long!" I lose my shit every time.

[Anonymous No.9504218]

>>9504194
So cute!! It looks so professional too, great job!!

[Anonymous No.9504230]

>>9504194
this is so cute!! Did you use a pattern for reference? I'd love to make something similiar as a one piece or high waisted.

[Anonymous No.9504235]

>>9504230
thanks everyone! I kind of winged it. For the top I literally wrapped my chest in saran wrap and duct tape and drew on where I wanted the seams to go with sharpie (this is my deep dark secret!) to create a form fitting pattern.

For the bottoms I tried tracing a pair of underwear I already owned but that turned out to be more difficult than I expected, so it basically just took a lot of trial and error and carefully trying them on with the hems pinned down and adjusting until it fit right.

Now everyone knows how sloppy a seamstress I am, haha.

[Anonymous No.9504282]

>>9504213
>Mormon swimsuits
what a perfect slip lmao

Definitely an adorable swimsuit! >>9504235 And I mean people make duct tape dressforms and use them for making pattern by draping so eh. I think it helps that everything is nicely finished in the end product.

[Anonymous No.9504318]

>>9504282
lol oops
My phone doesn't like the word normie.

[Anonymous No.9504353]

>>9504194
this is fucking adorable, where did you find the fabric?

[Anonymous No.9504687]

>>9504021
I love the handmade threads-- gulls suck less here, for some reason. You're welcome!
>>9504007
Post photos if you make it!
>>9503850
The only pattern referenced on that page is 85 which is 100% the headdress, sorry anon. Total bait and switch from the preview photos.

[Anonymous No.9504989]

>>9504353
I found it on ebay by searching "pink gingham swim spandex", but you should also be able to find it on etsy or possibly even amazon.

[Anonymous No.9507214]

Sorry if this is too spoonfeedy, but does anyone have rectangle/maxipad headdress tutorials that they would recommend? Are there any patterns in one of the GLBs? Most of the links on fyeahlolita are dead and I'm clueless.

[Anonymous No.9507496]

>>9507214
I know there's a few in ONS, maybe like one or two per issue as a staple. With some of the scans the measurements are too small to make out since it was such a thin font type in the original issue, maybe ask some people to take a pic of any tutorials in their ONS books, otherwise the only tutorials I can think of would probably be super ita shit on YouTube.

[Anonymous No.9507572]

>>9473978
Super late for the party, but who's Betty?

[Anonymous No.9507594]

>>9507572
Batty, she's a fairly e-famous lolita/alt fashion blogger.
https://youtu.be/_zWiZIcMxUM

That's the sceptor tutorial, it's not too bad.

[Anonymous No.9509527]

I was thinking of buying heycutsew's OP and JSK patterns. Has anyone here tried it? I want to get into making Lolita dresses but these seem to be the most legit patterns

[Anonymous No.9509547]

>>9509527
I think they're kind of overpriced for what you're getting, and even the fancy product shot of the constructed dress looks really unimpressive, almost like the pattern itself doesn't match up very well. I think a better option would be to Frankenstein's monster a rectangle skirt onto a bodice pattern you like.
This dress pattern has a nice, plain, easy to put together bodice that you could just stick onto a rectangle skirt and you'll have yourself a really nice, basic JSK. Added bonus, the pattern is pretty damn cheap and you can get it at Walmart.

[Anonymous No.9509841]

>>9509527
Someone made the JSK recently in either Lolita Sewing Collective or Pintucks and Lace on FB, I don't remember which. It seems okay, but I wouldn't spend the money for hard copy only. I lose shit and my cats like to eat paper, so I really only buy PDF patterns or cheap hard copies. Someone said the skirt needs more poof.

[Anonymous No.9509895]

>>9509527
Not worth it. Get a volume of OnS instead, which contains lots of patterns for the same price as that one. They're in Japanese, but several of the patterns will have photo guides and are super easy to follow. As long as you follow the instructions and use decent materials you'll end up with a legit lolita dress, even as a beginner.
If you absolutely need something in English or need larger sizes, do what >>9509547 described. It requires more creativity to decorate the bodice and skirt properly but sewing a gathered rectangle (at least 3x your waist, preferably more) onto a bodice is pretty much the easiest thing in the world.

[Anonymous No.9510063]

>>9509895
And a lot of us here have used OnS patterns and are happy to answer any questions.

[Anonymous No.9510466]

While we are on the subject of fabric, what do you gulls prefer to use when you sew a lolita dress? Do you guys prefer a cotton blend material or just normal cotton?

[Anonymous No.9510474]

>>9510466
It depends. I generally go for 100% cottons and other natural fabrics because I get hot easily and natural fabrics breathe better. And if you're in a cold climate, natural fabrics insulate better too. (As an aside, that's why I'm always so mystified when chiffon blouses are recommended for warm weather. The vast majority are polyester and would make me sweat far more than a cotton blouse even if the fabric is lighter!) On the other hand, poly blends generally wrinkle a lot less. If overheating or freezing is not a concern, I'd say use whatever fabric content you like, as long as it's appropriate for the fashion.

[Anonymous No.9510496]

>>9510474
I'm in the same confusion about chiffon blouses being recommended for hot weather. Polyester is my mortal enemy. I use cotton fabric for the main, I love cotton sateen for solid, classic style pieces. I line everything in a lightweight rayon because it's so breathable and soft. I love rayon so much

[Anonymous No.9510655]

>>9510496
How do you not like want to kill yourself when working with 100% rayon for the lining? I've only ever used rayon blends for non-lolita things and that's still slippery af.

[Anonymous No.9510656]

>>9510655
Plenty of silk pins and ball point needles.

[Anonymous No.9512505]

>>9507214
It's not a tutorial but I usually use this pattern (with different measurements). Hope it will help you somehow!

[Anonymous No.9512545]

Not sure if this is best suited here or in the general but i've made a dress out of heavy cotton sateen to sell. Structurally and visually, it doesn't need a lining, but do you think that since i'm selling it I should put a lining in it? I'm torn.

[Anonymous No.9512563]

>>9512545
Depends on what the dress looks like, not all brand dresses have lining, and unless you're sure the dress is going to sell I wouldn't bother sinking more money into it.

[Anonymous No.9512679]

>>9512545
I like for the skirt to be lined, at least, so the petticoat doesn't catch on it somehow. If not, just let the customer know or put it in the listing info.

[Anonymous No.9512703]

Does anyone have any idea where in the heck I can find one of these little stars that Sakuya puts on their wristcuffs? I'm running out of ideas to look up and I can't find them anywhere

[Anonymous No.9512813]

>>9512703
https://www.etsy.com/listing/98419105/50-tiny-star-charms-antique-gold-plated?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_d-craft_supplies_and_tools-beads_gems_and_cabochons-charms_and_pendants-charms&utm_custom1=3ac281dd-3b83-49e8-8dbb-b35c39f249ad&gclid=Cj0KEQjw6-PJBRCO_br1qoOB4LABEiQAEkqcVbTQRLyP5tKh6eMQldMl6CgHNvlGDW6J3pgVuw4yM2IaAnRn8P8HAQ

That took two seconds.

[Anonymous No.9513822]

>>9512505
>tfw your hair will never be that gorgeous