Thread: First Costume: where to start

Okay, I'd like to have a costume, now that I no longer look as an ugly duckling when I dance ..l;,
I haven't got a sewing machine (well, I do have one, but I don't like it, too old and complicated): is there any chance for me?

I would like something like this, posted by Amity (my body looks like hers in many ways)


but with a paillette pattern or something on the top...

what to buy and where to start?

Well Im not an expert but I always start drawing the design I want with all the details. Then I choose colors, fabric, stones and sequins. Start sewing the skirt and covering bra base. When all is done start beading.

Hi Brumetta,

I haven’t worked on a full BD costume yet, but I have made several other costumes before and can offer you these few pointers.

First, it would be good to have a clear idea of what you want to do. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself changing things as you go, sometimes back and forth, ripping up seams for the umpteenth time (sometimes swearing to never make another #@*&%$ costume! LOL) and your costume will never get finished. It helps to have a sketching pad at the ready and perhaps a few pictures and samples of the fabric type you plan to use. Then take a pencil and doodle. You don't need to be an designer by profession, nor an accomplished drawing artist. The idea is to experiment on paper to firm up your vision of your costume. (For example, when I think about a belt, I make two curved lines that represent (roughly) a waist and hip line. It helps situate where I want the top and bottom of the belt to be. That sort of thing.)

When you have your vision clear in your mind, then think about pattern and materials. Can you find a pattern for the skirt? Or the bra form you need? Or the exact fringe you want? If not, this can impact your design and you might have to go back to the drawing board.

For any costume, and especially for the first, I would recommend to try your hand on plain broadcloth or muslin. Cutting the cloth to your pattern, assembling it and sewing it, ironing the seams, etc... This will give you a sample to try on so you can make adjustments and help you understand and gain some confidence with the process.

When you’re ready to start sewing, I’d suggest starting with something simple with mostly long straight lines (like a skirt or gauntlet). Maybe it is just me, but I seem to tend to have my “doh!” moments in the beginning of my sewing sessions. Hence, starting with something easy to undo is key for me. Not having a sewing machine is not necessarily a barrier, but it will take you much longer to make your costume.

Lastly, arm yourself with loads of patience. This will take time. You will mess up. Stephen King once said that writing can be very much like shoveling rocks in a sitting position. I’d argue that the same goes for sewing. But when that costume is finished? Oh my! Cloud nine, baby!

HTH. Good luck!

Go get a strapless bra they carry at Wallmart. It is the "stands by its self " model. Make a paper template for the belt, use old jeans triple layered for the belt base and have at it!

First costume! So fun! Costumes are like boyfriends. Some work out well and some don't. You always remember the good ones and sometimes regret the ones you pass up. And you never forget your first....
I second anala. Have a blast!

Originally Posted by eshtabellydance

You always remember the good ones and sometimes regret the ones you pass up. And you never forget your first....

I love this.

Hahahahhahaha sooo funny, I'll write this on my desk!! ..l;,

Thank you all, I think I can start finding a base for the bra, while I sketch my project...I'm so excited! ..g.:

I listed many costuming threads on post #6 here: http://www.bhuz.com/forum/fitness-be...learn-sew.html

Have fun!

I'm flattered! This was an extremely last minute, fast costume. Simple design. I can send you the pattern for the belt.

Originally Posted by eshtabellydance

First costume! So fun! Costumes are like boyfriends. Some work out well and some don't. You always remember the good ones and sometimes regret the ones you pass up. And you never forget your first....

...and people tell me that I have too many (not that it's anyone's business but mah own!)

Boyfriends??? You go! Waste not, want not!!!

PS to Ozma..In the Company of the Courtesan..audible..really good!

Originally Posted by anala

PS to Ozma..In the Company of the Courtesan..audible..really good!

Been there, enjoyed that! Working through My Name Is Red right now. It took effort for a while but now I'm in the swing of it. I HIGHLY recommend Freddy and Fredericka on audible. AMAZING.

Amity, it would be really kind of you!!!

I've just bought something for the bra, it's gonna be violet as I already have a violet circle skirt.

But the next one...I want it TEAL! I love teal...*_*

If only you lived in Los Angeles.....Cause I teach a costume making workshop now.