Sewing with Sheers
The current fashions are wonderful, very feminine and the beautiful sheer fabrics can have some problems for making up yourself. The off the rack garments may not suit your body shape and may reveal more than you care to. So here are some tips to adapt this fashion to suit you. Line or underline the sheer fabric. Underlining is sewing the two fabrics together as one. This will eliminate seam and facings showing through but will also make the fabric look different, you may lose that sheer effect. Lining on the other hand is more favorable because you only secure where needed so it hangs freely under the sheer fabric. When you choose the lining, consider how it affects the sheer fabric. Using the wrong lining can totally change the outcome. Normally a solid plain color is the norm but you may want to test a print under a plain sheer. Experiment a little to find what you like best. Remember, you can always use a skin-tone color and can give the illusion of showing more skin than you really are. Make sure the seams of both garment and lining are in line to stop lining seams showing through. Instead of lining, you can use multi layers. Using these you may not need to line at all. Wear a nude camisole or bodysuit underneath. Have lighting at your back and stand in front of a mirror to check what is being seen. You can also use the 'cover-up' technique. Strategically place satin or other opaque fabric pockets on a sheer fabric top, add collar, front band and cuffs in the same fabric. Also rows of sheer ruffles down the front of a blouse or shirt will do the trick too. Sheer blouses are great worn over a pretty sheath dress or a singlet top with pants. A lovely flowing affect! You can also use sheers as inserts, like at the midriff, for a yoke or sleeves. When choosing a pattern for your sheer, choose one with minimal seams. The seams will show so they must be neat and narrow. I favor French seams but if you have a serger, then a rolled edge finish will create a very fine seam. Always take your time when sewing sheers, this is not the fabric to purchase in the morning and wear out that night. Don't rush it and you will be rewarded. You need straight and accurate stitching and always do a sample first. The needle size should be 60 to 75 machine needle and new, so the point is fine and sharp. The thread best to use is cotton or embroidery thread. If you use the 60 or 65 size needle then always use the embroidery thread, use the 70 size needle and you can use the cotton thread. Don't use polyester thread as this has stretch in it and could cause your seams to pucker or stretch. If you have a patchwork foot this is great for stitching perfectly even French seams. Consider a pattern without darts, go for gathers, soft tucks or pleats for the shaping. With darts, you have three layers of fabric showing through. CTBaird is an author of many articles and the Sewing eGuide “Sew More For U” http://www.sewmoreforu.com Copyright © 2005-2006 CTBaird Rights Reserved Sew More For U
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