the outfit from heck

[jennylafleur]

This outfit has turned out in many ways to be the project from heck, or perhaps it just seems so because of the condensed timeline. *sigh*

The toile of the front section, which I did in such a rush before I went to Baltimore, proved to be totally unworkable when I went to cut it out. Added to the 'fun' was the fact that I had a shorter length of fabric to work with than intended because the finial sleeves took up extra fabric.

I tried draping the unworkable toile on me again but it totally wasn’t working. I fussed, fumed and despaired then got on the internet and starting trolling for ideas of how cut the bodice separately from the front skirt (the easiest solution I could think of). I then noticed something I hadn’t noticed before. The tuck/dart demode_kvc had been talking about was horizontal along the waist, not vertical along the arm like the Arnold. Eureka!

I could have created a seam there instead but the tuck/dart seemed simpler and would use less fabric. Having had enough of muslins that wouldn't work when it came to the pinch I decided to drape a new front (with waist dart) in the blue fabric. I sewed the pleated back to the lining front & strap to use as my guides. I of course had to drape it on me for an accurate fit which means I actually talked Mom through the draping. She was a real trooper though and the front piece came out wonderfully. I SO owe her a big bag of M&Ms.

So last night I got most of the main things done. What's left? To bind the center back edge, attach the sleeves (already sewn, clipped and pressed), sew on hooks and eyes and decided what the heck I'm doing with the trimming. Oh yes and the waistband and ruffle attached tot he petticoat (already pleated thank God). No pannier, no cap. But right now I'm off to MK work (an appointment in Richmond) so I won't be able to work on this again until tonight.

It has to be done tonight though as tomorrow I have to get going on B's dress. Umm... an English gown, MK appointment (in Richmond), and baking 100 pieces of shortbread all in one day - I must be mad. Darn my stubborn streak.

Comments

[girliegirl32786.livejournal.com]

You are mad! Good luck getting it all finished in one day! I know you can do it. :)

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the encouragment! I do hope so!

[demode.livejournal.com]

Yes! HORIZONTAL waist dart! I so need to drape another few of these suckers so I can do a demo at Costume College (or we need to get someone more knowledgeable than me to do one...).

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

I think that is an excellent idea. I've had SUCH a hard time figuring this sucker out - and I'm very comfortable with the English gowns too. The 18th century is so much easier when you can see it in person, in 3 dimensions. I really wanted to take a class or see a demo before my deadline but it just didn't work out.

[joysdaughter.livejournal.com]

It's not fair you all get to go to Costume College - I wanna go, I wanna, I wanna!!

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

We want you to too!!!! Someday we will just have to kidnap you and drag you to CA. :>

[joysdaughter.livejournal.com]

Ooh, that would be fun! I could teach several classes in procrastination, and how not to keep a tidy workroom, and how not to know what fabrics you have in your stash!!

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

LOL! :>