Where to start? Part I
by Cookster on Mar.09, 2009, under Basic Sewing, Blog Shorts
This is a request from my other son, Shaun, about this site and some of the things he would like to see here. Shaun like many others out there knows little what it might take to make a decent costume. Here are some of his questions…
- What tools are needed?
- What type of thread works best ( I know some threads come apart in the wash)?
- How do you know when to hand stitch something versus sewing with a sewing machine?
- How much could it cost if I were to try to make a costume from home?
What tools are needed?
Well this really depends on what your project is. Are you making a hat, shoes, a garment, props that go with your costume, or all of those things? I hope as I cover each of the projects I have on my plate, I will be able to give you specifically what tools will be needed. If you really want to tackle costuming, a sewing machine is essential. Singer has some nice inexpensive sewing machines. I tend to like brands that I know have been around for awhile. Do some research on the internet of various brands and styles and look for feedback from customers. You might be able to find a sewing machine at a thrift store, but buyer beware. Just because they run when you plug them in doesn’t necessarily mean they will sew. I had a friend who picked up a working sewing machine at a thrift store for what he thought was a reasonable price only to find that the timing was off. To have it serviced plus what he paid at the thrift store, cost him more than if he had bought it new. If your mom used to sew, maybe she would be willing to let you have her machine or at least use it. Don’t forget to oil it or have it oiled if it hasn’t been used lately. I suggest if you want to buy a new machine that you don’t get one with a lot of fancy stitches. I have a few different stitches on my machine, but basically I need straight stitch (backwards and forwards) and zigzag for stretch fabrics/edge finishing.
