Fashion Fixes: Sewing Undergarments and Leggings
Now that everything is so DANG expensive, it just makes sense to sew some things yourself instead of buying them brand new. I’ve been loathe to find a bra and panties that I love. What is it about the sizing being all off, the cups not fitting quite right, or the lace digging in in all the wrong places.
Sure, you can always go ahead and buy these things…and clearly here I do not want to shame people who do. I always buy undergarments. But for the past few years I’ve been trying to challenge myself to learn to make these wardrobe staples. If not only to save money, but to make them how I want! Also, in my dreams I run a lingerie shop for plus size women. I’ve never quite been able to find lingerie that fits me to a t. I’ve been known to make a sexy costume in a pinch, just to get things heated up.
Here are a few tips, if you want to make your own undergarments and leggings.
Get fresh measurements, before you sew. Sure, you may have taken measurements last year for that project you never got around to sewing….<do I sound guilty here?>…but it makes sense to measure before each new project you do. Especially if you are known to gain or lose pounds rather easily, it never hurts to get a fresh measurement down.
If you have something you love, feel free to trace and copy! For underwear, you can usually just open up an old pair along the side seams, lay them flat on a piece of paper or stack of fabrics….then trace and cut. That way the underwear are only one main piece, with a lining and potentially stretch lace at the top and leg openings.
Use linings where appropriate. And don’t skimp on adding darts or other elements for structure. If you are following tutorials online or in a pattern, it does pay to add the shaping seams and linings.
If you are making undergarments in bulk, buy stretch lace in bulk to fit the project. If you are only making a few pairs, try to just buy what you need.
Old stretch t shirt dresses can be turned into bike shorts, or the fabric can be repurposed into undergarments. Above all though, make them something you actually want to wear!
If you are making yourself some lingerie, enjoy the process and be creative! Nothing heats up the bedroom more than a little playful element. Be sure you are comfortable wearing it, other wise you never will.
Be sure your fabrics stretch enough for the project. Fabrics with 4-way stretch usually work best. Or use silky fabrics for sexy pieces. Stretch jersey has been big in the lingerie industry recently! It gives a nice tomboy look that provides a bit more cover than some other options, which is great for every day wear.
Find some great patterns! Etsy especially has wonderful printable patterns that you can buy and print out same day. Then you can get to sewing faster, and get to rocking your new lingerie.
I’m gearing up to get sewing! I have a ton of projects going atm, but I plan on finally sewing some undergarments soon! Above all, have fun and follow your bliss! Sewing undergarments can save you big bucks, which is especially great when it pays to be frugal. That way, you can save your money for other things!