Pictures! aka Costume Porn :)

Finished Harley Quinn pajama pants. I think they look pretty good, don't you? My Joker friend called them "spiffy" lol In the comic she's wearing a grey shirt with them, but I'll probably either wear my Harley and Ivy tshirt or a black tank top.

It still needs work, but I think the corset for the SSHarley is coming along well, don't you? Next up is taking it in some, then the engineering starts...

Weekend Progress!

This weekend I:

1. Worked on my embroidered quilt, not much but I did work on it.
2. Not only cut out but put together the leggings for Pepper. Just need to get those in the mail!
3. Worked on SS Harley. I altered the pattern Friday night after work and cut out the spandex. I only messed up one piece which was okay considering how often I was looking at a picture while doing it to make sure I cut the correct side out of the correct color. Saturday and Sunday I basted the spandex to my interlining as well as pieced the front section together before basting it (the front panel is two colors).
4. They still need hemmed to prevent the inexpensive knit from running but I made the Harley Quinn pajama pants!
5. And I cut out the outer fabric and interlining of my new black and silver bodice. 

Not bad for a weekend, eh?

This week, my second job has me working less hours than usual. Which originally pissed me off, but then I realized that I need a break from working 60 hour weeks plus less hours there means more hours to sew! 


This week's to do List:

1. Work on the embroidered quilt. I'm actually tempted to start piecing it together so I can figure out how much fabric I need for the border and the backing...
2. Mail Pepper's leggings.
3. Cut out the Harley corset lining. I think I'm going to use left over red taffeta from Diamonds are Forever. And start putting the corset together. The sooner the corset's together the sooner I can start figuring out the engineering that I'm going to have to do...
4. Hem the Harley pajama pants.
5. Start basting the fabric and interlining for my new bodice.
6. Make a shopping list for all the stuff I need from the fabric store.

Progress on 2012 sewing goals - May update

Now for the sewing goals -- costuming.

1. Finish my gypsy steampunk ensemble. DONE
2. 1875 Square Overskirt (Truly Victorian) in black and silver plaid. DONE.
3. Pink and black steampunk ensemble. Progress: Overskirt's done. Bodice is about halfway there.
4. An underbust corset out of left over key print flannel to wear with my Keeper of the Keys skirt and a blouse for steam casual events - Started. If I remember correctly, it's cut out but not assembled

No deadlines:

1. 1884 Wash Overskirt.
2. Sari inspired head to toe Victorian ensemble.
3. Female Joker. Probably going to be a high waisted skirt with a jacket. I think a suit is the best course of action.
4. Natural form Victorian costume.
5. An 18th century costume.
6. A French Huguenot costume

Other sewing goals:

1. Baby quilt for my new nephew. Deadline: sometime between September and Christmas. The current idea is to make a quilt for Minnow to grow into, so there's no rush to have it done by the due date.
2. New retro sundresses.
3. A playsuit with removable skirt - Almost done. Although it currently does not have a matching skirt.
4. Flannel quilt
5. I have some Spiderman flannel that wants to be pajama pants. - DONE
6. Nativity printed cotton dress or skirt
7. A circle skirt out of Halloween pin up fabric.
8. A high waisted skirt from my retro jumper pattern. - probably will be combined with the Joker costume mentioned above.

Progress on January 2012 Sewing To Do List 4

Our impromptu build day at the house was quite successful this weekend.

1. Harley Quinn cuffs - are DONE. I stitched on the velcro and elastic so there's no chance of losing them
   
2. Star Wars pillowcases for Beau - are DONE and on the bed. They were a quick project, even with finishing the edges with a zigzag.
   
3. Spiderman pajama pants for myself - are DONE and waiting to be laundered so I can pack them for Ohayocon. Again, a quick project, but pajama pants usually are.
   
4. Star Wars nightgown for myself - is DONE. I finished cutting out the pattern, then put it together, which was a fairly quick project. I used black quilt binding, cut in half lengthwise, for the neck binding; added a band of black flannel to the sleeves because they were too short; and used snaps instead of buttons because I didn't feel like messing with buttonholes and buttons.
5. I also helped a friend with her Catwoman costume, and moved the ears to a better placement.
   

So the Current State of the January To Do List is:

• Finish the steampunk gypsy corset: This is pretty much done except for the D rings I want to add. - Deadline: ASAP
  
• Make a bodice for Gemma Fletcher of the Archon: DONE
  
• Harley Quinn collar and cuffs: DONE
  
• Make Beau a bag for his closet to keep his unmentionables in: Haven't started this yet. - Whenever it gets done.
  
• Make Beau and I both pajamas for Ohayocon: Spiderman pajama pants: DONE. Star Wars nightgown: DONE. Star Wars pajama pants for Beau: not done, because he doesn't seem like he wants them. Star Wars pillowcases: DONE - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• Make my plaid square overskirt: This is DONE (except for the decorative pocket, but its currently wearable). And I decorated the hat. - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• Concert tshirts throw: Started, still needs a lot of work. - Deadline: February 4

So all that's left is Star Wars pajama pants if Beau wants them, his unmentionables bag that has no real deadline and the concert throw which I need by the 4th.

To do list for Ohayocon:

• Laundry
• Pack
• Go to Sally's for a hair piece
• Work on tshirt throw
• Finish a friend's Catwoman (the eyes need fixed)
• I also want to sew those D rings onto the gypsy corset so its fully finished
  

Projects in the Pipeline - January 19 2012

As of right now, this is what I've got in the 'pipeline' as it were.

1. Harley Quinn cuffs - They still need the Velcro and elastic
   
2. Star Wars pillowcases for Beau - Cut out and pinned together. I'm using a green / black / white Star Wars flannel with black solid flannel for the flap.
3. Spiderman pajama pants for myself - Cut out, including pieces of black flannel to lengthen the legs which had to be cut short due to lack of fabric.
   
4. Star Wars nightgown for myself - Partially cut out of the green / black / white flannel, the fabric I brought to work with me today only had enough for the skirt front and back and the bodice front. I still have the sleeves and the bodice back left to do out of the fabric left at the house.

Star Wars flannel

Progress on January 2012 Sewing To Do List 3

I made a lot of progress this weekend.

Saturday, at the Build Day:

I finished my steampunk gypsy corset, except for my little D ring decoration. I found another D ring that I may add as well. I laced it using an interesting lacing technique I found via Diary of a Renaissance Seamstress.

I sewed a closure on my new plaid square overskirt and decorated a little hat to go with that outfit. Plain doll hat found on clearance + silver lace + black lace veil + black elastic cord + a plaid fabric flower = awesome new tiny hat! I didn't work on the pocket though.


The hat to wear with my new plaid overskirt.

Speaking of the plaid overskirt...


The apron spread out, pre-assembly.


A close up of the trim.

I didn't work on the Harley Quinn cuffs.

I did get Miss Fletcher's bodice cut out, all three layers (outer, interlining, lining) plus neckline alterations. I also cut out a pair of Spiderman pajama pants for myself, had to cut them a little short due to lack of fabric. I did not cut anything from the Star Wars fabric yet.

Saturday, post Build Day:

I worked on Miss Fletcher's bodice: I ironed the lining pieces, spray starched and ironed the satin outer layer. Then I put the lining together and flatlined the satin with the interlining, a heavy purple cotton (from what I can tell).


Miss Fletcher's bodice, with heavy alteration of the neckline plus a zipper instead of the laces.

Yesterday (Sunday):

I put together the outside of Miss Fletcher's bodice, set up a fitting then headed to the fabric store.

At the fabric store: A zipper for Miss Fletcher's bodice. Three yards of black Paris print calico for my pink satin costume (I decided on a Paris theme). Almost seven yards of the same Star Wars flannel I picked up from another store last week. A little over a yard of black flannel, to use with the Star Wars flannel and to lengthen my Spiderman pajama pants if necessary. And two Simplicity nightgown patterns because I've been wanting to make some old fashioned sleepwear.


Nightgown pattern 1.


Nightgown pattern 2

I'm planning a Star Wars nightgown, probably the first pattern, and hopefully before Ohayocon. I'm also planning some Victorian-esque nightgowns.

Miss Fletcher came over for a fitting. The neckline needed altered a little more and a couple seams needed taken in. After she left, I took in the seams, finished altering the neckline and stitched the lining to the outer bodice along the sides and bottom. All that's left is hand stitching the rest in place.

Current State of the January To Do List:

• Finish the steampunk gypsy corset: This is pretty much done except for the D rings I want to add. - Deadline: ASAP
  
• Make a bodice for Gemma Fletcher of the Archon: All that's left is hand sewing. - Deadline: January 20
  
• Harley Quinn collar and cuffs: Collar's DONE, just need to add velcro and elastic to the cuffs - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
  
• Make Beau a bag for his closet to keep his unmentionables in: Haven't started this yet. - Whenever it gets done.
  
• Make Beau and I both pajamas for Ohayocon: Spiderman pajama pants have been cut out for myself, but they may be set aside in favor of a Star Wars nightgown and pajama pants for Beau. He's also requesting pillowcases asap. - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• Make my plaid square overskirt: This is DONE (except for the decorative pocket, but its currently wearable). And I decorated the hat. - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• Concert tshirts throw: Started, still needs a lot of work. - Deadline: February 4

That's all for now!

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

January 2012 To Do List

Which is probably overly ambitious, as usual.

First up, I finished piecing the sixth gore of my crazy quilt skirt, so stage one of that is DONE!

Now for the actual to do list:

• Finish the steampunk gypsy corset. I already put boning down the center back, stitched the boning channels close to the boning by hand and finished basting it. Now all I need to do is make the binding, bind it and put in the eyelets. I may add a few little things, like stitching over the eyelets in pretty thread or adding a few D rings. I have some extra trim that I could use to hang the D rings from. Then I could attach things to them... - Deadline: ASAP
  
• Make a bodice for Gemma Fletcher of the Archon. She needs it by the 20th. This should probably be first on my list... - Deadline: January 20
  
• Topstitch my new Harley Quinn collar and see if I can add elastic and velcro to my cuffs. - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
  
• Make Beau a bag for his closet to keep his unmentionables in. - Whenever it gets done.
  
• I'd love to make some Spiderman pajama pants before Ohayocon, either for Beau or for me. I don't know if I have enough fabric to make Beau a pair, but I'm willing to try! - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• Now for what I'd really love to do before Ohayocon: Make my plaid square overskirt. I bought a yard and a half of silver crepe back satin and some black ribbon. I traced out the pattern, which I think sounds relatively easy. I've pulled out the silver lace (that goes over the black ribbon) and some other silver trims to deck out the overskirt with. I also bought a tiny top hat to decorate to wear with it. I'm super excited to work on this, and it may just come before the unmentionables bag and the pajama pants. - Deadline: January 27 (Ohayocon)
• I have a throw I made from old concert tshirts that I'd like to enlarge with more shirts and back with fleece (temporarily) before I see the band perform on Feb. 4. - Deadline: February 4
  

Okay, I think that's it for January. Now to see what I can actually accomplish...

Adventures in Quilting - The Final Post and What's Next for Miss Wilde

I finished my mother's wall hanging and Beau's quilt yesterday. The binding of the quilt seemed like it took forever due to the size. But its DONE and he's happy and I'm sure mother will be as well. I passed on putting on a hanger, because I don't know what kind of hanger to put on there. I may add it sometime between now and Christmas, when I can talk to her about it.

I went shopping yesterday. What I bought: white flannel with black keys on it for a skirt (suitable for work and steampunk), pink with a grey pinstripe shirting for a jumper (Simplicity retro pattern mentioned in previous posts), the binding for both abovementioned projects, some white blizzard fleece for Beau to use in a costume, and some comic printed fabric for something for Beau for Christmas. Currently I'm thinking a Christmas stocking with matching pajama pants trimmed in the leftovers (there's not enough for pajama pants, maybe for boxers but I don't know if he'd wear those and I've been thinking about making us stockings so I think that's the best route).

I also started the bustle for my Christmas steampunk outfit (I'm calling it "elf-punk") -- I cut the tablecloth I'm using in half and started assembling the bustle with the aid of my dressmaker's dummy. I fastened the bustle pillow on her butt and went to town. Once the bustle's done, I'm planning to make a fabulous Christmas-y hat / fascinator to go with it. I just need to figure out what to use as the base to pile on flowers and other fun stuff.

After the elf-punk dress is finished, I will move on to the normal work clothes: Finishing a skirt that's already cut out. The keeper of the keys skirt. The retro pink jumper. And retro out of some wide wale blue corduroy, either a jumper or a skirt. And then of course the Christmas stockings. I think I may need to pick up some Tinkerbell fabric for my stocking / pajama pants combo. EDIT I also have some UC Bearcats fabric left over from a remnant I bought earlier this year (I made myself a bandana). If I have enough, I might use this for my combo instead.

As for other Christmas presents, my father has no idea what he wants me to get him and my brother and sister in law have told me that they cannot afford presents this year and so don't want me to spend any money on them.

Okay, I'm going to get dressed (still in my robe and slippers! lol) and head down to the sewing room for a little elf-punk fun.

A bientot!

July 4th DragonCon To Do List Progress II

Miss Von Stoup was under the weather yesterday and unable to attend our meeting. However, Prof. Watt and I DID go shopping so I have yards of spandex with matching thread and zipper sitting on my table at home for when I have time. So at least some progress was made.

My mystery costume skirt is finished! Yesterday, I put the zipper in, put the waistband on and sewed on a hook closure. Then I finished the back edges of the top layer and attached a white grosgrain ribbon waistband that will tie in the back.

I tried on what I have together so far and Miss Dashwood commented that I need more green. My current thoughts are leaning towards just wearing a green cami under the jacket and leaving the blouse off. My reasons for this are (1) it would satisfy the need for more green (2) the blouse doesn't really allow a jacket to go over it very well and (3) I made the sleeves just a bit too snug and its not very comfortable to wear.

As for the jacket, I did make a post regarding it yesterday. And I have decided (I think) to go with the Victorian jacket option - shortened to make the most of what fabric I have, lined in black sateen (if I have enough) and with a collar made out of an as yet to be determined fabric. I like the idea of pink on pink, but the shades may not compliment each other. I could go black or white or I could go with pink and white stripes. I have a large pink and white stripe in my stash. Another option would be a black sateen collar and lined in the stripes. So we'll see how that turns out.

In other mystery costume news, I found some large jewelry charms on clearance yesterday and snatched them up as they matched my inspiration for this costume. I'm not sure where they will go yet, maybe a necklace, maybe on the hat.

So the mystery costume is approaching completion and I have the materials to start my next major commission for DragonCon. I feel pretty good about the current situation.

In non DragonCon news, I made a pair of sleep / lounging shorts. I used the Colette mini bloomer pattern (free for download) and cut out the largest size. The fabric was about a yard of this loud paisley print in bright pink, turquoise, yellow, black and white. I just did an elastic waist and hemmed the legs without any drawstring or elastic. However, they kind of ended up looking like a full short skirt. I think I need to take out some of the width in the legs... But they are pretty comfy.

And since its related to the blog, I'm wearing my walkaway dress today. I went between this dress and another retro dress. I like the other one just a little bit more (its more flattering I think), but the walkaway just just a touch more comfortable to wear.

Last Minute Ohayocon Prep 2 and Normal Clothes for ME!

The Imperial Officer was a success last night at Last Night on Alderaan. Miss Dashwood snapped a picture before I left her birthday celebration so hopefully I can update this entry later with it. Before I wore it, I did fix the hem.

I fixed my beau's gloves -- it was a pretty simple repair. They have elastic straps that wrap around the wrist and velcro in place and the straps needed replaced. It was easy and quick to take the old ones off and put new ones on.

Then I put a waistband on my black petticoat. I took a piece of black knit left over from other projects, trimmed it so it was more square on the ends, cut it in two lengthwise and sewed the ends together to form a long piece. I stitched it onto the waist of my petticoat, about an inch or a little more from the top (this was so that the tears and holes in the petticoat would be covered), then stitched again to hold the waistband in place before turning the edges under and stitching it down. I also used narrower strips of the knit along the back opening to finish those edges as well. All it needs now is some sort of closure, probably a hook and eye which I don't have with me.

I also cut out my Kermit pajama pants, put them together, hemmed them and made an elastic casing. They would be finished, IF I had remembered to pack elastic. Also its a good thing that they're just for me -- I accidentally cut out one leg upside down.

Yesterday I purchased a pattern to make a knit tunic and some purple knit (clearance!) for it. Prewashed the fabric today and I noticed I bought the wrong size of pattern. So now I'm trying to decide if I should exchange it or just make it and take it in to fit. I'm sort of leaning towards the latter, but I know I should probably exchange it. Well, I do work tomorrow so it won't be difficult.

I still need to finish my Harley Quinn mask. I really should do that as soon as possible. If not tomorrow, then Tuesday.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Ohayocon Prep 27 and a Preview of Normal Clothes Sewing

Progress on Catwoman

Miss Dashwood tried on her aviator hat and declared it acceptable. The hat is in my sewing basket to be worked on Monday while I am at work.

This evening, I had her put on her turtleneck so I could pin the zipper to it. Then I cut the turtleneck along the zipper, took the zipper off, turned the edges back and repinned the zipper into place. I stitched it but had issues with the actual turtleneck portion -- since its a knit, it kept shifting so the edges didn't align on each side of the zipper. I took the stitching out once (just along the neck and a little below) and restitched it. It's better, but still not perfect. I'm going to have her take a look at it tomorrow to see what she thinks. After all, the seamstress frequently notices mistakes in her own work that no one else will see unless they are pointed out to them.

Miss Dashwood has not been able to secure a belt as of this moment, so I have been unable to work on her utility bustle.

Normal Sewing Preview

Also in my sewing basket are the first two normal clothing items I'd like to complete for myself -- the Kermit pajama pants and the corduroy wrap around skirt. I may find time to cut them out tomorrow while visiting my beau and perhaps even begin the sewing. After all, the pajama pants will be terribly easy to complete.

In other news...

My beau has once more expressed interest in dressing as the Joker for our Steampunk Rogue's Gallery. So I suppose it is quite the good thing that I finished his coat. Although I am sure that he will insist on buttons and be quite put out at the lack of interior pockets, which may lead to me having to re-do the lining. C'est la vie.

With the change in the status of the Joker, this also means that I am once more responsible for making myself an Imperial Officer uniform. It is not that I am opposed to the idea, I just do not feel like I have adequate time to complete the uniform as it should be (the party it is for is on the 22, so in two weeks). Actually, I don't know if I have the desire to complete it to Legion standards. Although there's no rule saying that I can't have a Star Wars costume that is not acceptable to their costuming organizations. So I may just do my best -- whether I do it now or later -- and not worry overly much about the specifications.

Fingers crossed that everything gets finished for the event it needs to be done for.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J. Wilde
Steam-stress of the Airship Archon

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 15 EDITED

First of all, I finished my brother's pajama pants last evening. I stitched the waistband casing and threaded the elastic through. Now he needs to try them on for elastic and pant leg length.

And my HQ jacket is almost complete. Yesterday at work I hand stitched in the lining and pinned the sleeve hems. Last night I machine stitched the sleeve hems and top stitched around the jacket opening and all the peplums with a white straight stitch. We decided that lacing from underneath the breasts to the waist would be lovely. I picked out small grommets for the lacing, mainly because I have a lot of them already so there's no need to purchase larger ones. I'm unsure what color lacing I'll use, I have some red cord and some black ribbon that I could use, but I lean towards using white which necessitates a purchase. EDIT Pictures!


A shot of me sewing in the lining. I used black thread because I like contrast.

I personally think it needs more, but Miss Dashwood likes the subtle touch. I'll see what I think once the whole outfit is put together I think. I may add another row of stitching or a little zig zag in addition to the straight stitch or I may just leave it as is. We'll see.

I also worked on my hat. I decided to use the plastic cup technique that I read about online (I think it was on cutoutandkeep.com). First I made it shorter because it was a rather tall cup. Then I traced the top and cut it out of cardboard for the top of the hat. I traced the top again and added to the circumference for the hat brim, and cut that out of cardboard as well. I used scotch tape and clear packing tape to put the hat together.

With the base constructed, it was time to start adding fabric. I used an uncut plastic cup to gauge the fabric to cover the body of the hat and cut it out. I wrapped it around the hat, trimmed it then used a gathering stitch along the bottom to make it fit. The top was notched and stitched with long stitches across the top of the hat to hold it in place. Next up was covering the brim. I cut out a large circle of fabric and first tried a gathering stitch. That didn't work so well. So I took out the gathering stitch and decided to pin it in place and stitch it. Around this time, I remembered that I have double sided tape (usually used to hold costumes in place). So I used a large X of that on the bottom of the brim to hold the fabric in place while I pinned and stitched it in place along the top of the brim. With the brim covered, I trimmed off the excess and turned my attention to the top of the hat. The brim and the body of the hat were covered in the diamond print cotton. Once again, I used double stick tape to hold it in place. I cut out a square of fabric (black taffeta) large enough to cover the top of the hat and taped it in place. I then trimmed off the extra and treated the edges with fray check so that they wouldn't fray (obviously :) ). Next was a double stitch in red thread to hold the top in place and add a bit of red to the hat.

Now it was time to trim the hat. I made a hat band out of a length of black taffeta and added white lace to one edge. I then stitched white lace into place on the brim. A piece of my narrow red ribbon was stitched along the center of the hat band. Now all I have to do is stitch the hat band in place. I'm planning to either add a hair comb to the bottom or elastic to hold it on my head. I am unsure at this moment. EDIT -- hat band has been stitched on. EDIT TWO Here's a couple shots of the hat at this stage of construction.




I want to add more to my hat, perhaps a plume of feathers or something sparkly, but Miss Dashwood thinks the hat is fine how it is. She actually thinks my outfit is rather over the top and keeps telling me to dial it back a notch. And while I think she's right, I also think that's the point. After all, if you can't be over the top with Harley Quinn, when can you?

Today I have my hat with me, as well as materials for the mask and purse. I plan to trace another mask that I've made and cut it out of black taffeta. I need to check my stash for buckrum like I used the last time or purchase a bit of it. Maybe I can use netting for the inside of the mask, but I doubt it'll be enough. I'll have to see. As for the purse, I've decided to make a cover for an old purse that I don't carry much anymore. Its going to be red taffeta with black diamonds and tie on with black ribbons. I may trim it in black and or white lace, that decision will be made after the construction of the purse.

Harley Quinn
1. Petticoat - DONE!
2. Bustle - DONE!
3. Corset - DONE!
4. Underskirt - DONE!
5. Jacket - put in grommets and laces
6. Top Hat - DONE!
7. Purse - pattern needs to be made and cover needs to be constructed and trimmed
8. Mask - pattern needs to be made and mask constructed and trimmed. I need to purchase and paint a dowel rod for the stick to hold the mask by.

I'm anticipating that I'll be finished with Harley Quinn either today or tomorrow. Or at least mostly finished. Next up is the Joker! My first step of that will be the mock up of the jacket for fitting and measuring my beau so I can start on the other items.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Ohayocon and Christmas Prep 13 EDITED

Finally started sewing together my twin's pajama pants. All the seams are done and I started pinning the waistband, but did not finish it as I was extremely fatigued. So it'll just be a matter of pinning then sewing the waistband and threading elastic through. The hemming will wait until after he tries them on.

On Friday, I sewed the hook and eye closure onto the underskirt waistband then sewed four hooks on as well, to attach the bustle. I sewed four hooks onto the bustle so that it can now attach to the skirt, and sewed all of the roman shade tape into place.

Last night I got a lot done on my HQ jacket. I sewed the lining together and fitted it, the only change I had to make was taking in the back seam a little. It's not terrible form fitting, but I don't think I want it to be. I'm even debating boning it at the moment. My next step was to sew the interlining to all of the jacket pieces. Once that was finished, I started putting the pieces together -- the front peplum was sewn to the front, the center back seam was sewed, etc. Then I worked on the back peplum. I'm using both the pattern piece that goes with the rest of the jacket and the peplum from another pattern (used for my Time Traveler bodice as well as my black and silver plaid creation). I love the effect of the layered peplum. I lined each peplum piece (sewn on three sides, corners trimmed, then turned), pleated the top peplum and stitched them together. I'm going to attempt to sew them all together today, but I doubt that my beau's mother's machine can handle it. While it is a rather nice machine, it is a new model and just does not have the durability that my Fern has, being an all metal machine that dates from decades ago.

I'm trying to decide if I want to trim the jacket, maybe with white braid or ribbon, or if I'll just topstitch it to hold the lining in place. Decisions decisions.

Part of my day yesterday was spent with my beau as well as Dr. Chronus and Miss Von Stoup. We went to the fabric store in search of something to use for my beau's Joker costume, pants fabric to be exact. The doctor pointed out a lining fabric that was purple and grey/white striped. We tried it with the other fabrics, and decided that it was a perfect fit. Since its lining and thus very lightweight, I'm going to back it with a heavy 100% cotton to give it the proper weight for pants. I prewashed all the fabrics for his costume when we arrived at his dwelling last evening and plan to work on the cutting out today. Actually my plan to to cut out and baste together a muslin of the jacket for fitting purposes. I already cut apart the pattern pieces.

I may start doing a daily update of my to do list...

Christmas
1. Parents' aprons - DONE!
2. Stacey's pajama pants - DONE at least til she can try them on
3. Cliff's pajama pants - started sewing, needs waistband finished and elastic put in

Harley Quinn
1. Petticoat - DONE!
2. Bustle - DONE!
3. Corset - DONE!
4. Underskirt - DONE!
5. Jacket - started construction, need to finish putting the outside together, figure out the front closures, attach the lining, insert the boning (if I decide to bone), finish putting in the lining by hand, sew on trimming (if I decide to trim), and finish the front closures with button holes and buttons
6. Top Hat
7. Purse

And...
1. Steampunk Joker for my beau - vest, tailcoat and pants, maybe a tie. All fabric and most patterns have been purchased (still need a vest pattern, may be able to use the one I used for the Captain's vest, if not, I'll have to purchase one). All fabric has been prewashed. The next step is ironing the fabric and starting work on the tailcoat. EDIT Fabric pictures are below.
2. Steampunk Catwoman for Miss Dashwood - bustle, utility belt and shirt
3. Helping with Poison Ivy and Mr Freeze - whatever they need

The tailcoat, it photographed a little blue, but the color is definitely purple:



The tailcoat lining (orange and purple) is on the left, the vest fabric (green and purple) is on the right:



The trousers (underlining of white cotton, purple striped for the trousers themselves and the pattern I'm using):



A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 12

No, I still haven't sewn the pajama pants for my beloved 'twin' (note we are not really twins, but we look and act like it, so I usually call him that). I was going to do it last night, but unforeseen circumstances interfered and said sewing did not occur.

However, I did finish my corset while at work yesterday. The zipper has been properly stitched in and the basting removed. And the red ribbon trim has been tacked on.

Jillian saw some pieces yesterday and appropriately "squee-d" over them, which made me ever so pleased.

And now for an updated to do list (have you noticed that I really really like lists yet?)

Christmas
1. Parents' aprons - DONE!
2. Stacey's pajama pants - DONE at least til she can try them on
3. Cliff's pajama pants - fabric purchased, washed and cut out, needs sewn

Harley Quinn
1. Petticoat - DONE!
2. Bustle - just need to sew on hooks and eyes and the roman shade tape that allows it to 'bustle'
3. Corset - DONE!
4. Underskirt - DONE!
5. Jacket - all the pieces are cut out, just need to start construction once the above tiny bits are finished
6. Top Hat

And...
1. Steampunk Joker for my beau - vest, jacket and pants, maybe a tie. I have fabric for the jacket, lining and vest so I just need to get something for the pants. And patterns for the jacket and pants, have not yet decided how to do the vest yet. I plan to make a muslin of the jacket first so I can properly fit it. And I'm already forseeing some pattern changes so a muslin is definitely necessary.
2. Steampunk Catwoman for Miss Dashwood - bustle, utility belt and shirt
3. Helping with Poison Ivy and Mr Freeze - whatever they need

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 9

I made little progress this weekend sadly. Thursday was consumed with going to my grandparents' in Indiana (see my genealogy blog for more info). Friday and Saturday I worked 2 to close and 3 to close respectively. Getting off work that late does not put me in a sewing mood. All I managed to work on this weekend was cutting.

Before work on Saturday, I cut out Cliff's pajama pants. And have a TON of fabric left over. I'm totally thinking it might be used to make myself a comfy little skirt. Or maybe I'll make myself some pajama pants, or sleep shorts, oooh or bloomers.... I'll find something, no worries.

Also on Saturday, I cut out the red half of my HQ skirt. Its a rather complicated process because I have to think about which side of my body that particular color goes on and cut the fabric accordingly. Last night, I cut out the red half of the jacket, the black half of the skirt and some of the black half of the jacket. And I grossly overestimated my fabric yardage. Oh well, 'tis better to overestimate than underestimate and run out, don't you agree my dearests?

My beau said that the black would make a nice vest. I turned to him and said "I can make you one, I'll have enough left over." So some of that will be used at least. I'm thinking I may make a long skirt out of the red (maybe both) to give me a second underskirt option for my HQ outfit.

Last night I purchased ribbon to trim the corset and the bustle. It was difficult finding something because of the particular shade of red I'm working with. An employee at the fabric store suggested I used the really narrow ribbon because then it will be less obvious that it does not match. I forsee a lot of tedious hand stitching over the next week or so. I hope to get some done at work today and if not, then maybe I can start it tonight.

Plans for tonight -- I'd like to finish cutting out my HQ jacket, put together Cliff's pajama pants and start hand stitching ribbon onto my corset.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde
Steam-stress of the Airship Archon

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 6

Hello my dear readers on this lovely Monday morning! Its warmed up here a bit, so much nicer than the chilly-ness of recent days.

First of all, I purchased fabric for my brother's pajama pants. I plan to wash it today and get those finished this week.

Secondly - My HQ Corset: I pinned and sewed all of the lining together. I did a quick fitting and it fits pretty well. I need to put the zipper in (which I bought yesterday) and put on the undergarments that I'm most likely to wear with it to get a good fit before I start pinning and altering the corset. The interlining was pinned and basted to the diamonds, so its all set to go!

Thirdly - My HQ Bustle: My first step was the lining. Part of the bustle (which is a 45 inch square) was lined in left over diamonds and the rest with white sateen. Basically there's a wide strip of sateen down two sides. I purchased some petticoat net for the inside (it gives the bustle more body and ability to drape pretty) and sewed that to the wrong side of the lining, then sewed the lining to the outside. I sewed all four sides of my square except for about nine inches which I left open to turn it right side out. Then I pinned and topstitched all the way around, closing the turning opening. I went to iron the square and fold it to form the bustle shape I wanted and realized that I had messed up -- the lining and the outside weren't the exact same size (despite my efforts to make them so) so the bustle would not lay right.

As you can imagine, I was quite perturbed. Instead of crying (which was my immediate reaction), I tried a few fix its and when none of them work, I grabbed my scissors. I cut along the diagonal crease where I had attempted to iron it straight and then ironed each piece from the sewn edges towards the open end. With all the extra fabric at the open edge, I basted the opening closed. My plan is to sew the two together and then use bias to conceal the raw edges. This will also give me the waistband that I need for hooks and eyes so that the bustle can attach to the skirt. I also trimmed the edges with some white lace (from the stash my beau's mother gave me) and plan to tack on some red ribbon by hand. I plan to repeat this trimming of lace and ribbon on the apron and probably on the corset as well.

All in all, not a bad weekend. Oh I also cleaned my chamber at the Companions' Shuttle so that I can decorate for the holidays. Which I plan to do this evening when I get home!

Update on my to do list --

Christmas
1. Parents' aprons - DONE!
2. Stacey's pajama pants - DONE at least til she can try them on
3. Cliff's pajama pants - fabric purchased, needs washed and sewn

Harley Quinn
1. Petticoat - DONE!
2. Bustle - need to sew the two pieces together, add a waistband, sew on red ribbon trim and sew on hooks and eyes
3. Corset - need to tack the zipper in so I can properly fit the lining, then start constructing the corset including boning
4. Underskirt
5. Jacket - I'm changing the pattern because I realized that another pattern already in my stash works better than majorly changing the same pattern I used for my polanaise. It is the right length and already has a peplum instead of me having to add a peplum from another pattern.
6. Top Hat

And...
1. Steampunk Joker for my beau - vest, jacket and pants, maybe a tie
2. Steampunk Catwoman for Miss Dashwood - bustle, utility belt and shirt
3. Helping with Poison Ivy and Mr Freeze - whatever they need

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 5

Greetings to my dearest readers on this chilly autumn morning. The weather just makes me want to curl up in bed with a good book and a good man or stay at home, all cuddly in pajamas and a robe and sew all day. Alas, I am at work and will spend my day in a chilly office (our heater isn't working right, thankfully I have a space heater under my desk or I'd be a Leah-sicle) instead of sewing like I'd prefer.

Now for my update on Christmas and Ohayocon preparations!

First off - I finished my HQ petticoat!

Secondly - I threaded the elastic through the casing of my beloved sister in law pajama pants so they are finished for the time being. A fitting is required to completely finish them after all.

With Christmas presents well in hand, I pulled out the next fabric and patterns for my HQ and started cutting! Out of my diamond patterned cotton I cut out the bustle apron and my new corset. I also cut all the corset pattern pieces out of white sateen (for the lining) and muslin (for the interlining). The back of the bustle apron was cut out of muslin and white sateen. It won't show (it'll be under the actual bustle) so I didn't want to waste my diamond on it when I need what's left of the diamonds to line part of the bustle. I believe the bustle is going to end up partially lined in diamonds and partially in sateen.

With everything cut out, I started a little sewing. The apron sides where pinned and sewn to the apron front. Then I pinned the two pieces of the apron back together but did not have the chance to sew them before I had to leave the Companions' Shuttle to meet my beloved adopted sister for food and libations (and talking of course). I did have the time to pull out my iron and our tiny ironing board and iron all of the corset pieces, 36 total pieces I believe -- six pattern pieces, three fabrics and two of each pattern piece.

In my sewing basket today -- All my corset pieces so I can pin them together for sewing. I'll pin the lining together so it can be sewn and used as a fitting tool. The diamonds and the interlining will be pinned so that each piece of diamonds is backed by muslin and sewn together before I construct the corset. I also have all of my bustle pieces so I can get them cut and pinned together so the bustle can be constructed.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Christmas and Ohayocon Prep 4

Well my dear readers, my HQ petticoat is almost complete! Tuesday I handstitched on the waistband (I particularly like the red waistband with the black and white stripes!) and pinned the polyester braid to the hem. Last night, I sewed on the polyester braid and finished the hem. All that's left to do is sew on the closure at the waistband!

I also cut out my HQ bustle. It's my own design, so fingers crossed it works! I plan to have a standard two part bustle - the actual bustle and the front apron drape. I discovered that the print of my fabric is not perfect (aka not straight) and I'm hoping that the slight deviations don't negatively impact my outfit.

Last night after working on my petticoat, I cut out the flannel for my sister in law's pajama pants. I had to take off a couple inched of length to get the pattern to fit -- the fabric apparently shrunk when I washed it. I then sewed them together (side seam, inside leg seam then crotch seam) and put in the elastic casing for the waistband. All I plan to do at this point is thread the elastic through and leave it to be sized to her. I'm also leaving them unhemmed -- she's rather tiny in the height department so I'd much rather have her try them on and pin the hem than try to guess how long they need to be.

In my sewing basket today - (1) HQ petticoat and closure (2) pajama pants and elastic and (3) the fabric for my corset and bustle -- I probably won't cut it out at work, but I might do it on lunch so I figured I'd bring it.

That's all for today!

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde

PS - I took some photos of my petticoat yesterday but forgot the cords to post them via my work computer. I have failed you yet again, Miss Dashwood.

Marcon prep #3

Things are coming along rather swimmingly I think!

1. I finished Miss Dashwood's pieces and she is quite pleased! I just need to sew the elastic casings shut but that'll only take a moment. She looks rather adorable in them.

2. I also finished the lovely Miss Dashwood's pajama pants. Although now we are both bemoaning our lack of matching corsets. We plan to wear the pajamas to a Barfleet party.

3. Finished flatlining the fabric for my beau's new kilt. Then I sewed the front flap lining in - cut a piece of plaid the right size, sewed it to the outside of the front flap along the bottom and side, leaving the top edge and the side that would be against the lining open, flipped it to the inside, folded the edge over to encase the raw edge of the lining and basted the top edges together. Then I was ready for the pleating! Which took a little bit of trial and error to get the fabric pleated so that the pleats sat in the right place and so that the front overlapped just the right amount for him. After the second fitting, I let every other pleat out about half an inch, adding a total of 2.5 to 3 inches to the garment. Pinned everything down, keeping all the pleats aligned with the lines of the plaid and started hand stitching each pleat. I'm sewing from about 4 inches down the pleat, up to the waistband and then across the top of the pleat. Once they're all stitched (or earlier if possible) I'll have him try it on again and if he's pleased - which he hopefully will be - then I'll sew on the waistband and add the belt loops he's requested.















As for my own last minute projects -

4. I decided on a bodice design for my 'summer' bodice. I'm making a corset top (probably without boning but I'm not sure yet, I might use some) and a sleeveless 'jacket' to go over it. Originally they were going to be stitched together into one garment but since I decided to go w a black and silver stripe for the bodice - on Miss Dashwood's suggestion - I'd prefer to leave the bodice so that I can wear it separately. The 'jacket' is going to be out of the silver and black plaid, probably with a solid black mandarin style collar. I may alter the back of the bodice so that it shows some skin, but I might leave it as is. I'll make that decision once I put it together. I plan for the bodice to fasten with silver satin covered buttons and elastic loops. I've cut out all the bodice pieces and pinned them together, I may line it w a heavy cotton. The 'jacket' pieces are also cut out, except for the collar, as is a peplum out of the plaid that I may use hooks or snaps to fasten to the bodice as a temporary addition. I'm not sure if the peplum will be necessary yet but its an option.

5. As for my mystery costume - the fabric has been purchased and prewashed. I cut strips of pleather to use for the strapping. The strips need to be sewn together into one long strip and then I'll start working on the actual dress. I'm thinking that'll happen this weekend when I can use the dress form at my beau's house. Draping will be involved and I'm thinking that a dress form will be necessary for that portion of the construction.

I still haven't made any progress on the prop for my time traveler or on the Leia belt. Nor have I worked on my Harley Quinn hat. I think I'm more interested in wearing my new costumes instead. After all, I don't really need the hat to be Harley, I can just put my hair in pigtails and people know who I am.

That's it for now! A beintot mes amis!

Miss Leah J Wilde

Time Traveler Entry #23 and moving onwards

Well the time traveler costume is pretty much complete. I finished sewing the roman shade tape on (although I am contemplating adding a little more to it) and I attached the ruffle to the hem. I decided that one ruffle was enough so all I have left to do is hand sewing on some wide green ribbon over the top of the ruffle to finish the edge. And moving the waistband hook and eye because the skirt is a little too big on me. I do still have the prop to do as well, but I believe my beau and one of his friends might be aiding me with that this weekend...

And... moving onwards...

Miss Dashwood's outfit: I have cut out both the skirt and bloomers. I did part of first out of some extra fabric first because it was my first time really enlarging a pattern. It turned out well so I took it apart and used it as the pattern. So far I hemmed the apron front and gathered the sides and attached them to the apron back. I hemmed the sides of the poufs then sewed the top pouf to the bottom pouf for the bustle skirt, including putting a drawstring in to attach the bustle to the apron (they tie together). I need more fabric before I can finish the bustle, and I'm buying that tomorrow. I also need ribbon for the waistband. As for the bloomers, I enlarged the pattern and cut it out. Then I sewed the inner leg seam before sewing the legs together at the crotch. As of right now, its all basted together. That way I can alter them easily if its necessary. I haven't done the casing and the elastic yet because I wish that Miss Dashwood try them on first, nor have I hemmed them for the same reason.

Pajama pants - I cut out both my pair and the pair for Miss Dashwood. Then I sewed together the inner leg seam, the outer leg seam and the crotch seam of mine. I plan to finish them tonight - the casing is in progress, the elastic is laid out and then all I have to do is hem them. Then I shall tackle Miss Dashwood's and we shall have matching pajamas to wear when we share accommodations at Marcon.

The countdown is down to 26 days but I'm feeling very prepared at the moment. If all goes well, my beau shall have a new kilt to wear for the event.

Well I must get back to sewing! I want to finish my pajama pants this evening.

A bientot!

Miss Leah J Wilde