Threads‘ contributing editors excel at executing their good ideas and creating daring styles. So when we invited them for a design challenge for Threads #162, we wanted to find a fabric that would never appear in their private collections. We knew they could design stunning couture garments, but we wanted them to step slightly out of character and take on a fun summer project.

We found a flamboyant print that’s neither a weave nor a knit, but a medium-weight mesh printed with bright, see-through butterfly wings (OsgoodTextile.com). They could design whatever they wanted, but it had to be a complete ensemble, and any companion fabrics had to be knit.

What they made surprised and delighted us. Pairing the fabric with a sequined knit made for a stunning combination; and a shirred strapless beach dress was pure fun. We never expected jeans in this unusual fabric-but we also didn’t anticipate a suit.

As you’ll see, you can take a project in any direction. Step into the minds of our contributing editors, Louise Cutting, Susan Khalje, Kenneth D. King, and Mary Ray, and see what inspired their design direction and learn about their approach to sewing with this unusual fabric.