Customizing a Simple Skirt

As you may remember, last week I promised my version of customization, a la The Great British Sewing Bee. I have been struck by the ‘flu this week ( boo!), so this is a little late coming to you but I love the outcome so much, I thought I’d share! I am also really proud of myself for finally starting …

Make Christmas Stockings

For a last minute gift idea, these cannot be beaten! If you are stuck what to get someone, a hand made stocking stuffed with a  few choccies is absolutely the answer, and will be brought out each year to decorate their tree for ever more. Because they use such a small amount of fabric these are a wonderful quick, cost …

How to Make a Mans Tie inc. Pattern

   So, I have been fighting with technology to bring you a wonderful Vintage Tie, Cravat and Bow Tie Pattern I inherited a while ago. Alas, it was not to be, and creating Patterns with PDF downloadables’ has now made it on to the 2014 list… which is exciting as I have a whole heap of ideas about new Patterns …

Midnight Makes

So, what have I been up to over the last week, and what have I been stitching?! Well, it’s been a little busy to say the least! Not only have I been teaching Lingerie sewing techniques to a very lovely student, I have also been refining my own Bra Making skills! I have been somewhat thwarted however; as getting hold …

Notions: Add a Waistband to a Skirt

This is a great technique to know & can be used for Up-Cycling Vintage finds- cut the top off a Vintage dress if it doesn’t fit but make a great Skirt for instance, or if you are making a Skirt, or re-sizing a Skirt. Once you know the Skirt fits, you can construct & attach the Waistband. Cut a band …

Notions: Pretty Lace Edge

To achieve this pretty Lace edge detailing- ideal for Slips, Pyjamas, Lingerie or Skirts- first decide upon the Lace & measure the garment to ascertain the length needed. There are some beautiful, & colourful, Lace edgings out there & it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Next, fold the wrong side of the material over to the right side, to …

The best Haberdashery shops in London!

Back when I had just taken Laura After Midnight full time I read a blog post by a small business owner who had been working away on her business for a couple years & was about to go on holiday. Probably many people reading this wont understand the magnitude of that statement however; I was fascinated. To have set up …

Notions: Gorgeous Vintage details

Another of the little gems hidden away in my collection. I am simply dying to use this on a top & as I am teaching a Pattern Cutting Course at the moment, & have to draft a simple top as an example, I may just cheekily make it up with this snazzy little detailing… maybe in rows down the front? …

Notions: The Language of Patterns.

No doubt the sketch of the design on the front of the envelope will catch your eye first. From McCall’s Sewing in Colour    A beginning seamstress may feel Einstein’s theories are as easy to understand as the intricacies of a first pattern. Here is a place where first steps should be taken slowly […] &, whether you are a …

Notions: Measuring yourself for a Perfect Fit.

So, you’ve picked out the perfect Pattern, or your making your own during Pattern Month, you’ve chosen your fabric & are generally wildly excited about learning how to make your own clothes, but where to start? The very first thing to do is to take some measurements, in order to figure out what size is best for you. Before buying …