Replies

1. 
   tmorris1 | Apr 18, 2007 08:43am | #1

   Do you have a Dressform? Have you thought of draping your own? If not, do you have a sewing buddy? You could drape each other. A T-shirt is a pretty basic thing to drape, and it is a nice way to start expanding your horizons in the sewing world - today a T-shirt, tomorrow you could be the next Vera Wang. Don't be afraid to experiment (that is why they make discount fabric). Try a couple of different blends, they will stretch differently, making careful note of which one is which so that when you make the final product you can find the same weight and blend that most flatters your figure.

1. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 18, 2007 08:46pm | #3

   Yes, I do have a dress form (paper tape), so I will try your idea.  Duh - why didn't I think of that myself????  You're right about the stretch of the different fabrics.  I'll get better results doing the draping thing, for sure.  I have tried, in the past, copying a well-fitting T-shirt, but I think the different material (stretchiness) made them not turn out as expected.  Thanks for your input!

1. 
   tmorris1 | Apr 18, 2007 09:57pm | #5

   You are most welcome Gloria. Happy draping :-) Let us all know how it turns out.

2. 
   Cherrypops | Apr 18, 2007 10:00am | #2

   Gloria, Have you had a look at Pamela's website.

   http://www.pamelaspatterns.com/home/index.html

   There is a list of Stores. Some have website links for online purchase. If you are unable to find information on any stockists within Canada here on gatherings, send Pamela an email.

   I email everyone to find out shipping costs to Australia. Haven't done this site yet.

   CherryPops (australia)

    

1. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 18, 2007 08:51pm | #4

   Thanks muchly - I thought she would have a website, just didn't remember to check it out until after I'd turned off the computer.  Will see what she has to offer.  You're right - shipping charges (not to mention money conversion & duty) can be pricier than the pattern & sometimes not worth ordering.  Of course, we can always copy, eh?  I also really like the draping idea from the previous poster - I'm still kicking myself for not remembering that idea!  Thanks for the input, ladies.  Happy sewing!

1. 
   Cherrypops | Apr 19, 2007 03:19am | #9

   You're welcome Gloria. Hope you receive a reply from Pamela's site soon. The draping idea was a good one as is copy. You will find a pattern suitable. CherryPops

1. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 19, 2007 07:51pm | #10

   I received an e-mail from Pamela's this AM.  She said her Canadian shipping info on her website wasn't working properly, but, if I ordered on the US form, I would get the pattern(s) at their prices, minus the extra shipping, for a savings, for the next few days until they correct their website.  How quick & good is that?  Think I just might do that.

   Otherwise, I think it was Ralphetta who mentioned tucks in her T-shirts at the waist to bring them in a bit - I tried that this AM & what a difference that makes!  So, with the draping, tucks & bust darts, I may have a winner.  You ladies are great - always come up with the easiest solutions that I SHOULD have thought up myself!  Guess I was having a senior moment or several.

   Edited 4/19/2007 1:19 pm by Gloriasews

1. 
   tzipi | Apr 21, 2007 11:30pm | #11

   I've never draped before. Should I follow the draping instructions in the latest Threads and start with a t-shirt? I guess what do I have to lose except some time.

2. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 22, 2007 10:47pm | #13

   Yes, follow the directions in the article.  You have nothing to lose but a little time to ensure a good fit.  It works!  Good luck!

   Edited 4/22/2007 3:49 pm by Gloriasews

3. 
   Cherrypops | Apr 22, 2007 06:50am | #12

   good to hear you got a reply from the website. glad you are enjoying your time and all help given here. Cherrypops

4. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 22, 2007 11:03pm | #14

   I also took advantage of the Cdn. site being down & ordered 2 patterns (as she said I would save $ by getting it at US prices until the Cdn. order site was fixed). 

   Otherwise, yes, I'm learning something new every day.  The problem is that I spend too much time following the threads of different topics & not enough time sewing!  (Especially enjoyed "The weirdest thing you've ever sewn" thread - what a hoot)!

5. 
   tzipi | Apr 23, 2007 05:48am | #15

   I can relate to that. I spend alot of time reading about sewing and thinking about sewing , but not enough time actually sewing!

6. 
   Cherrypops | Apr 23, 2007 10:11am | #16

   I confess! I read way too much here. But it's been great. learning all the time and able to put into practice. See you soon.

   CherryPops

3. 
   fabricholic | Apr 18, 2007 10:59pm | #6

   Can Canadians order from Nancysnotions.com? That is where I saw it.Marcy

1. 
   Gloriasews | Apr 18, 2007 11:06pm | #7

   We can order from anywhere we like - but it always comes down to the cost.  I did send an e-mail to Pamela's Patterns (she doesn't have any outlets in Canada, alas), as suggested earlier, & am awaiting a reply.  Otherwise, it's no big deal - I have patterns I can use & will start with the draping, which will do the job, I'm sure.  After all, how difficult is a simple t-shirt?  (Hope those aren't famous words)!  Will see how it goes - I don't want them tight as I do possess some fluff.  Thanks so much for your input.

   Gloria

1. 
   fabricholic | Apr 19, 2007 12:03am | #8

   Yes, I have to get busy and make some t shirts for myself. I have been making a dress for my granddaughter and keep putting off doing anything for myself, because of the alterations of the pattern that I will probably have to do. Good luck on yours.Marcy

4. 
   MtnBoy | May 01, 2007 02:53pm | #17

   Thanks to your post I went to Pamela's website and bought the T-shirt and the Tank top patterns. I've been trying to work out a camisole for myself and so I have great hope for adapting the Tank top for that. I'm past wearing tank tops uncovered myself. Although it might be nice under a jacket or shirt.

1. 
   Gloriasews | May 02, 2007 12:14am | #18

   I still haven't received my patterns yet - look hopefully in my mailbox every day, so hope they arrive soon.

   Just a thought, though, Ralphetta (on another thread about dickies), suggested making them out of thrift shop blouses & shirts.  Wonder if camis could be made out of them, too, especially if you'll not be wearing the tank tops by themselves (I can't wear them alone, either - too much fluff).  I will have to think on this, as they would be cooler & lighter if just the front of the blouse or shirt is cut down for a cami.  If Ralphetta is also reading this, what is your input?

1. 
   MtnBoy | May 02, 2007 12:59am | #19

   I read the dickies thread and I'm thinking about the front-only cami/tank thing too. Actually, I used to have (MANY years ago) some backless halters that came down to the waist in front. I wore them with no jacket or shirt over them, but if lightweight enough they could work under something for me now.

1. 
   Gloriasews | May 02, 2007 01:13am | #20

   Great idea!  They would only work under jackets or blouses, though, as the neck strap wouldn't work with a tank top if you were wearing the tank top by itself (as some readers may want to), which you won't (or I won't, either) be doing.

   That halter idea, though, is similar to making a "dickie" type garment with a long scarf that would criss-cross in the front of the garment.