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Category Archives: Tips

How to Make a Bodiced Petticoat from the Regency Gown Pattern

How to Make a Bodiced Petticoat from the Regency Gown Pattern

I’ve received many requests to bring out a pattern for a bodiced petticoat. But if you already have the Regency Gown pattern, you don’t need another pattern to make a petticoat; you can just use the gown pattern! [Note: Ladies who are sizes 18-26 D and DD can use the Regency Gown supplement to make [...]

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ePattern Video Tutorials

ePattern Video Tutorials

If you’re new to ePatterns, you’ll want to watch this three-part series on how to put together your pattern sheets before you take the plunge. ePatterns are printable PDF files that create “tiles” you piece together to create your master pattern sheets. With a little effort, you’ll be on your way!

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Easy Alterations to the Regency Gown Pattern

Easy Alterations to the Regency Gown Pattern

Modifying my Regency Gown Pattern is extremely simple. I’ve shown in my Diary of a Dress how to add a train, make an overskirt and add other fancy embellishments to a ballgown. The purpose of this section is to demonstrate how the bodice can easily be changed to button up the front rather than down the back (especially nice for nursing mothers!). I’ll also include instructions on how to modify the skirt front for expectant moms.

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How to Make a Drop-Front Bodice with the Regency Gown Pattern

How to Make a Drop-Front Bodice with the Regency Gown Pattern

Here is yet another modification you can make to my basic Regency Gown Pattern. This section will show you how the bodice can be changed to include a drop-front (or “apron front”) panel. This is a fantastic feature for nursing moms, and I can tell you that I absolutely love nursing my daughter in this [...]

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Diary of a Dress: Regency Gown with Train

Diary of a Dress: Regency Gown with Train

This is a project I undertook in Fall of 2000, creating a unique wedding gown for a customer. Through this diary, you will learn how to modify the original Regency Gown Pattern to add a train, make “window” sleeves, add a bodice inset, and more!

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How to Make a Pattern From an Original Garment

How to Make a Pattern From an Original Garment

Question: Can I create a pattern from a favorite dress, blouse, or skirt without taking the original apart?

Answer: It can be done — and it only takes patience and a few tools!

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Invisible Zipper Tutorial

Invisible Zipper Tutorial

If you’re new to invisible zippers (used in my 1910s Tea Gown and 1940s Swing Dress patterns), then this is an invaluable help. Step-by-step photo instructions will get you there, thanks to the “Sew? I Knit!” blog. Click HERE for the full tutorial. Enjoy!

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Sewing in a Zipper: Tips for installing centered, lapped, and invisible zippers.

Sewing in a Zipper: Tips for installing centered, lapped, and invisible zippers.

I’ve been asked many times for zipper tutorials, so I am happy to share this is a marvelously helpful article from the Threads magazine website. Click HERE to read all about it!

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