Thread: ReSequining? Neckelmans?

Hi,

Where would I find information about re-sequining a bra? I have no costuming experience whatsoever? Anything special about re-doing a Neckelmanns? Any good sequin matching sources?

Helen

Yeah! Not to steal your thread but where on earth does one find sequins alone. Just huge bags of them?

I've been buying my sequins for years from Cartwrights. I believe they have a minimum $10 order.

Cartwright's Sequins, Beads, Buttons & Glitter

Originally Posted by shahla

I've been buying my sequins for years from Cartwrights. I believe they have a minimum $10 order.

Cartwright's Sequins, Beads, Buttons & Glitter

I 2nd Cartwrights.

But are there any instructions on how to sew them on or decorate a bra. I know how to sew a button on, but I'm assuming there is some art to this?

Know How

You could try looking here, but there are not many resources online.
I have found the best way is to look carefully at the garment and see how the sequins are sewn on then try to copy. If you are not confident you could practise on spare fabric first. I learned by looking at close-up photos of beading.

I agree with Firefly5 that looking at the way they are sewn on to begin with is a good idea. I've never had a Neckelman's costume in my hands before so I can say for sure.

I can share with yout the way I do things: Use a long strand of heavy duty thread. Tie an knot at one end. Anchor the thread into whatever you're sewing the sequin onto. Bring the need up through the fabric, thread the sequin onto the needle through the sequin hole. Thread a bead on top of the sequin, and put the needle back down through the hole in the center of the sequin making sure you don't also go back through the bead again. Some costumes will be beaded in that manner. Others might be held on with a sequence of three beads or some egyptian costumes don't use beads at all to hold them on.

A tip I have learned: Use an embroidery needle for beadwork. The eye is easier to thread with heavier threads needed for beading, but is still small enough to go through a size 10/0 bead.

Plan on practicing a few times on a scrap piece before you start working on your bedlah. Also if there is someone in your area that does this kind of work on costumes, see if they will work with you to get you started. It's an ambitious project even for an experienced sewer.