Halloween costume making

[seldear]

Am making a Halloween costume for a party being thrown by an American friend in Sydney (married an Aussie).

Picked out a 'Victorian Steampunk' dress - Simplicity 2172.

I started with a 'calico' or a test attempt in plain calico - which was a good thing, since I picked the wrong sizing. Apparently US size 12 is not the same as AU size 12.

Got that fixed, and now I'm having a difference of opinion about the sleeves:



On the right, a plain sleeve without the sleeve flange over the top. On the left, the sleeve flange. I'm not sure I want the flange - it's not like my shoulders need any more width (or the appearance of it). On the other hand, the plain sleeve looks...plain.

There'll be lace at the cuffs and around the collar - I skipped the contrast ruffle for the calico, since all I had was the calico fabric. I'm wondering if I can get lace for the collar. I'd rather like to make the stand-up collar in this Pirate Bridesmaid Costume.

I've also decided to shorten the sleeves as this costumer has over at steamfashion. The long sleeves are too long on me, and the size of the sleeves needs to be made smaller anyway.

So: sleeve flange or plain sleeve? Any other suggestions, comments, etc?

And while we're at costumes, a very cool link to an Offbeat Bride Wedding!

Team Awesome Wedding: San Diego Superhero Wedding

I'm not married, nor likely to be, but this would be SO MUCH FUN. And anyone I invite would totes have to come in fancy dress. Or possibly wear a mask (for my more staid sections of family).

Comments

[m-nivalis.livejournal.com]

I love your icon, btw!
Thank you!

If the top of your sleeve pattern is an upside-down U, it's fairly easy. If it's an S-shape curve, it's a bit more tricky for beginners. The puff is formed by making the sleeve part bigger than the armhole in the body fabric. Anyway, assuming an U, just expand the U in size towards the top and "upper sides". Make sure it forms a smooth curve all the way. Sew a quick "in and out" seam by hand, and let both ends of the thread hang loose (don't knot it or cut the thread off close to the end. Pull the two thread ends to gather the fabric. Pin to hell and back to the "body fabric". You can sew the seam straight on machine, but for safety's sake stitch it quickly by hand first and try it on. The puff may be too big, too small or start too soon, in which case you just have to re-do it until it fits. If you use a different colour thread, it's easier to unpick it after you've sewn the proper seam.

If this is unclear, I'll try to explain it better.