Sewing The Midnight Oil

I’ve been working on a few costumes for a ballet recital in June, but when the director decided on a quick early public performance, I stitched the night away. I’m making 2 ballet bodices with matching tutu plates and a men’s shirt and vest. I was able to finish one bodice in time for the early show, and have started working on the next one. Originally, I was going to make my own pattern, but decided to buy one.

I bought a bodice pattern from Tutu.com. While I had considered a career in costume design at one time, I have never really made a professional costume. This pattern was wonderful! I learned quite a bit about making this costume so it would be adjustable for this ballerina or the next one. It took me about 15 hours from start to finish, and I know the 2nd won’t take that long. I did learn a bunch of new tricks. That’s the great thing about sewing, there is always something new to learn. I always get a chuckle when people tell me that they don’t want to sew with a pattern, ever. A few here and there can’t hurt, especially when you learn things you wouldn’t by making it up as you go along. Great tips and tricks and techniques for when you are doing it all on your own. ANYWAY…

I still have a few changes to make to her bodice, but overall it turned out quite wonderful. I totally recommend this pattern. I’d make a complete test one before you do the final if you have time, work out all the kinks, ask questions if you need to, and make sure it fits! I’ll be working on the plate for this bodice later this week.

Rob was also in this performance. I couldn’t finish his shirt and vest in time (HECK they are still on my sketch pad!), so I stitched lovely peacock colored sequins around the neckband of his t-shirt and vintage blue crocheted trim with crystals (it’s SO LOVELY! I’ll try to post a picture later), around each armband of the T. I found this lovely old trim at Osgoods. For you local yokels – it’s well worth the trip!

Iz was super proud of her dad, yelling BRAVO at the top of her lungs and telling everyone around her “That Daddy up there is MY DADDY!”.