From Doggy Bedding To Dressmaking In Steps

The thought of dressmaking has always daunted me – whether it’s knowing that to make something for me could throw up alls orts of fitting challenges, or whether my ability to comprehend the pattern instructions may not be as strong as hoped . . .  There has always been something holding me back.   I have a really super duper sewing machine that a relative donated to me when she upgraded to an even more fantastic one.  So far, in 18 months of very proud ownership, I have made a few clothes peg bags, a couple of aprons, a few small items.  Then I moved on to making mattresses and covers for my family dogs, using up old duvets that cannot be donated but are far too good to be dumped in the landfill.  The poches look dileriously happy with their new bedding and it gives the owner with the most responsibility, the chance to wash out the variety of other bedding covers.   The fabric covers were made from samples and offcuts I bought at my local indpendent craft store, together with the matching threads and other notions.  Alocal store is so approachable and offers help and advice on all projects.