Thread: Want to get going on the next costume

So what do you do when you have the idea for the next great costume in your head you want to make, but don't have the supplies yet. plus it's not like i can rush out to get them within the next couple of days either. that's an hour drive away to get the supplies ~sigh.~

I've been so short of funds lately that I've got at least five ideas in my head that I can't make yet.
I'm getting better at using Photoshop on the PC so I've been using it to create very realistic images of what I would do- kind of over excessive planing if you will.
That way at least I get to see my vision come a little bit closer to reality, check what might not work etc. and not lose the ideas.
I thik this might make me a total geek...

I sketch it out. One of the costuming books I own has a "croquis" in the back that's meant to be copied. I make a copy, and sketch out my idea on the croquis making any necessary notes on colors, materials, fringe, trims, etc.

I have a file folder that I keep them in. Sometimes I see a costume that I like elements of and I'll print out a picture of it and make a note beside the photo indicating what I liked about it. All photos and sketches go in the folder 'till I have time or the right dancer to make the idea for.

I sketh them out too, then start collecting pictures on the internet of the items that I need. Maybe create a moodboard to reflect the idea and style, or get started at picking the perfect music/choreography to go with the costume.

Originally Posted by mekyria

I sketh them out too, then start collecting pictures on the internet of the items that I need. Maybe create a moodboard to reflect the idea and style, or get started at picking the perfect music/choreography to go with the costume.

ohhh i like the idea of a mood board. yes sketching & gathering pictures very good ideas.

it's also fun to do! And it might come in handy if you want to do a photoshoot with the costume somewhere down the road. Photographers respond well to moodboards in my experience.

Hoping your supplies will arrive soon, I also have supplies on the way for a new hot pink costume.

I start thinking of process, logistics, and potential snags I may run into (pun intended depending on fabric used) so that when it's time to sit down with project in hand, I'm mentally prepared to fabricate.

Even though I know things may change when I'm sewing in reality, if I have a step-by-step process generated, when the serendipitous happens I'm not a scattered (albeit excited) wreck. ..l;,

I feel you on the wrecked part! By the time I start sewing, I've played out every worst case scenario in my head, yet every now and the something unexpected slips through the mazes. I hate the unexpected surprises part of making costumes, but I love making costume more.