NEED advice on creating coin belts, sewing, and the lot!!

[Bellydancefanatic]

Hello Everyone,

I have more questions.... I need more advice....

So, can anyone here give me some advice and guidance in creating coin belts? I believe the expertise of a jewelry maker would be needed to create a 100% coin belt. I need to go on a book buying frenzy for costumes, bras, skirts, etc. But I don't think there is much out there on coin belts.

Next, where are some good websites to find fabrics, sewing materials, coins, etc that are bellydance costume related? Our fabric stores in Manassas, VA aren't that culturally coordinated. It's mostly old world European looking things. I need to probably venture out into DC or Maryland (which is not far from me at all), but I want to see what the Internet has to offer.

Now, I need some advice on sewing too. It's been years since I took a class on sewing (and I learned by machine, lightly). I'm to the point of asking my grandmother to teach me. So, I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for books, VHS, online sources that give guidance in sewing. Or does anyone have some of these items you're willing to sell?

I posted a forum here not too long ago asking for resources on creating costumes, called "Major help in creating costumes." Thank you to everyone who contributed. The input made that forum a great resource for everyone. I will continue to take all the help I can get!!

Thank you SO much!

Bellydancefanatic

[Azhia]

Hi!
I've made all of the coin costumes in my gallery. I'm absolutely not a jeweler and they're the easiest costume of all to make.
What kind of coinage are we talking? Like, on chain or scales on a base?

[Azeeza]

Hi Azhia:

I'd like to know how to sew coins in a scale pattern. That look has always intrigued me. Do you drill holes in your coins or have you purchased them with attachments at the tops, like the old Afghani coins I've seen for sale?

Thanks,

Azeeza

[Azhia]

All coins I've used had pre-drilled holes.

The gold coins were pretty standard, I've seen them around a lot. The copper coins are Harry Saroyan coins.

Once I've established my "base" I start with the top row.

I use several layers of waxed Silamide thread. Waxed for extra durability, Silamide for extra durability, several layers for extra durability! I also knot each coin individually, for extra durability!

The key is to not sew them onto the base TOO tight b/c you still want them to hang freely. The next row is placed between each of the coins above it, about 3/4 below the row above, so that you do not see where these are sewn.

For the top row I would often incorporate a bead or sequin in the several layers of Silamide thread, to hide the thread.

If anyone's interested, I can post extreme close ups of my work.
Anybody else who has other techniques or suggestions would be cool to see how they do it, too, for everyone's information.

[zamora]

we sew a whole base of flat coins first, sewing the top 3 holes down, then hang the top layer coins from the unsewn botton hole with snap asivels (get at fishing store)

[Azeeza]

Thanks for the advice ladies.

I'd like to create something that looks like this. Vintage, made out of U.S. nickles, but minus the saftey pin holding the bra together (WTF?) :-O!

Bhuz isn't allowing me to add pictures right now. I'll try again later.

Azeeza

There we go, it worked this time.

[Azhia]

Yup, totally doable, either method.

[Azeeza]

Originally Posted by Azhia

Yup, totally doable, either method.

I looked at your gallery pictures for the coined costumes! Very nice! You are a talented costume designer and seamstress!

Azeeza

[Azhia]

Gee...shucks, thanks, Azeeza. :0)

I don't get involved with the sewing machine, however. Everything's by hand or else it turns into a knock down drag out fight...

[auraevans]

I have created several coin costumes. You dont have to be a jeweler, depending on what you are doing.
If you are using real coins, it helps to have a drill press. Also, knowing the proper way to open and close metal jump rings is helpful so you can use them to attach chain and dangle coins. Making a sturdy foundation is a must to support the weight also. Almost all beading magazines have basic instructions for doing the jump rings also.


photo by Sarah Skinner

[auraevans]

Azhia;
I would love to see a close-up of your coin costumes.

[jessedan]

Me too! Those are lovely. What are the turquoise/blue things? Scarabs? They contrast so nicely.

Regards
Priscilla

Originally Posted by auraevans

Azhia;
I would love to see a close-up of your coin costumes.

[Bellydancefanatic]

Originally Posted by Azhia

Hi!
I've made all of the coin costumes in my gallery. I'm absolutely not a jeweler and they're the easiest costume of all to make.
What kind of coinage are we talking? Like, on chain or scales on a base?

Well, Azhia, it looks like you're my main resource for this task! Guess what? I have no idea what you're talking about, so chances are that whichever style is easier is the one I'm talking about! I guess I should start with sewing the base with a chain? Where did you learn this from? What's a drill press, and where do I get these type of supplies from?

Please help and Thank you!

Bellydancefanatic

[Bellydancefanatic]

Originally Posted by auraevans

Almost all beading magazines have basic instructions for doing the jump rings also.

Hi auraevans,

Where could I find these magazines/books?

Thanks!

[Bellydancefanatic]

Originally Posted by Bellydancefanatic

I have more questions.... I need more advice....

Next, where are some good websites to find fabrics, sewing materials, coins, etc that are bellydance costume related? Our fabric stores in Manassas, VA aren't that culturally coordinated. It's mostly old world European looking things. I need to probably venture out into DC or Maryland (which is not far from me at all), but I want to see what the Internet has to offer.

Now, I need some advice on sewing too. It's been years since I took a class on sewing (and I learned by machine, lightly). I'm to the point of asking my grandmother to teach me. So, I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for books, VHS, online sources that give guidance in sewing. Or does anyone have some of these items you're willing to sell?

Okay, even though I could use more advice on creating coin belts/costumes, please don't neglect my other inquiries! Need all the help I can get!

Thanks again ladies!!

Bellydancefanatic

[anala]

The sewing machine is an invention of the Devil and the bobbin is Satan's spawn.

[auraevans]

G Street Fabrics is supposed to be amazing. It is in DC. I havent been there but it has been recommended to me by several people.

[auraevans]

I recommend BEADWORK and Bead & Button available at most bookstores.
Such as Barnes and Noble and Borders

Originally Posted by Bellydancefanatic

Hi auraevans,

Where could I find these magazines/books?

Thanks!

[Azhia]

ANALA. I'M SO WITH YOU. It and I have clashed. Literally. I got a concussion from smashing my head against the damn thing.

Pics coming so you know what I'm talking about Bellydancefanatic darling!