Disboutiquers Part 15 Kids Disney Boutique / Customs Clothes psst..we sew

[Mommy2JulietJocelyn]

I'm a frequent lurker, occassional poster on this thread. You've inspired me to dust off the sewing machine (no small feat!) in preparation for our upcoming DW trip. To start, I've been trying to girly-up the Target Phineas and Ferb t-shirt. I made DD a pair of Perry colored pants and added a matching ruffle and some frilly sleeves to the shirt. It doesn't look right to me though - esp the shoulders and neck. The shirt actually fits her good everywhere except the shoulders where its a bit wide which I think is part of the problem. Any ideas? I still have enough of the fabric that I can start over with some of this...

Here's what I have so far...

Here is what I did with the same shirt-------

I did put pintucks in the top to make it fit across. She is a skinny little 5Y.O. and the smallest t-shirt we could find was 7/8.


Toadstool - you quoted my ? but didn't answer it.. Can you please?

 

[*Toadstool*]

Hrm.. I did answer it, but I must have deleted it when I went and edited to make thumbnails I guess.
I was saying that I used embroidery thread when I did it. I am guessing you are talking about using the sewing machine? I used polyester embroidery thread, and it did really well. I know a lady that does alot of applique with her sewing machine for quilts, and she told me to use a lighter weight thread in the bobbin because it will allow the top thread to wrap under the fabric and not have the bobbin thread show. Also.. Embroidery thread is thinner and stretchier than cotton thread. I know that matters for machine embroidery.
Oh, and I forgot to mention that the lady told me to use serger thread in the bobbin.
I plan on doing more applique this way, but never get to it.
What are you working on??

 

[Mommy2JulietJocelyn]

Just basic Mickey & Minnie icon heads on the bodice of simply sweet dresses - I changed the skirt a little but took some advice and cut out ALL the pieces for the all 3 dresses first, now I just have to sew them. I have not done an applique on my machine except for once. I just did the first Mickey head - It pulled the fabric a litte and I feel like the applique could just pull right out of the fabric - like I am making my stitches too close together. I think maybe I am trying to get such a solid line that I am making too many stitches. I left my camera out in the car otherwise I would take a picture. Let me try another one and if I am having the same thing I may have to go out & get the camera.

If I am making Minnie - do I sew the black all the way up to the bow and do the red bow thread over top of the black outline?

 

[Mommy2JulietJocelyn]

here is the first one

here is the second one

are you suppose to be able to see the light through them if you hold them up? Like this....

If you are then I guess I am doing ok.. If not I am not sure what I am doing wrong....
This is the last one for tonight I have to get the majority of the dress done before I put the other head in the skirt or should the applique be done first?

 

[*Toadstool*]

here is the first one

here is the second one

are you suppose to be able to see the light through them if you hold them up? Like this....

If you are then I guess I am doing ok.. If not I am not sure what I am doing wrong....
This is the last one for tonight I have to get the majority of the dress done before I put the other head in the skirt or should the applique be done first?

What size needle are you using?? Also.. is that satin? When I am embroidering on the embroidery machine on satin I use a ballpoint needle to avoid the holes in the satin. You should be able to make the stitches close, and not have holes like that. I'd think either your needle is way too big or you just need to get a ballpoint needle. I'm not sure how that goes when you are embroidering into cotton and satin. Maybe just try a smaller sized needle. Maybe a universal since they are slightly ball pointed. You are putting another head on the skirt? I would applique it before I attach the skirt. You could assemble the bodice though.

 

[Mommy2JulietJocelyn]

I took my needle out and it says 110/18 ( i have a singer) the package says for heavy duty sewing on heavyweight fabrics I never thought about that part I have been using the same needle for 2 years!
I have a package of different size needles - 80/11, 90/14 & 100/16
I have no idea which is for what though!
I just looked on Singer's website - I guess I should be using the 90/14 one - that is what the chart says for satin.

 

[*Toadstool*]

I took my needle out and it says 110/18 ( i have a singer) the package says for heavy duty sewing on heavyweight fabrics I never thought about that part I have been using the same needle for 2 years!
I have a package of different size needles - 80/11, 90/14 & 100/16
I have no idea which is for what though!
I just looked on Singer's website - I guess I should be using the 90/14 one - that is what the chart says for satin.

Hehe.. ya that is a big needle. I use that for doing hemstitching which is actually making holes in fabric.
I change my needle every couple of projects. It really annoys me that you really don't know when to change your needle. It is kind of a guessing game. I can sometimes hear that my needle is wearing by the noise the machine is making though. When it gets dull it kind of makes a tapping noise everytime the needle goes through the fabric.
I have a dress that I made and accidentally had a jeans needle on the embroidery machine. It made those little holes like yours did and I've washed it several times, and it is still okay. It looks like the applique would just be able to fall right through the dress, but it hasn't happened yet.
I use 75/11 for most woven fabrics. I use a microtex 65 when sewing finer weights. I bought this little wheel thing that you turn and it tells you which needle to use, but I can't find it.. lol

 

[Mommy2JulietJocelyn]

here is the last one with a smaller needle. I think I will redo this one tomorrow. I have plenty of the yellow dot. I liked the first 2 better. maybe because the bow or because I think I kept turning more square on this one instead of letting it "flow" on the turns.

i think I may try the smaller needle with the next one though. I have never really been taught how to sew with the exception of home ec in middle school. And that was back in '92. No one in my family sews anymore. the only ones that did are now gone. My mom knows how to sew but hasn't in a long time. The changing needle thing never entered my mind. plus it still seems pretty sharp. Hurt my finger getting it out. Then again I only probably have sewn 10 things since I bought that needle. The majority on my sewing has been this year. SOmetimes I feel like I need to take a sewing class but I feel like I know how to do a lot of stuff already. I think a one on one would be better for me so I can ask how to do the things I want to do. My cousin was a fabric arts major? not sure if that is what it was called - but she can dye her own fabric, make yarn, etc. She has a janome which is way better than my singer but I am sure she would be able to help me out.

 

[TinaLala]

Finally finished a few things.

Here's DD7's new first day of school outfit.

And here's the pink Skull skirt I mentioned a few days ago. I ended up adding a stripe of black lace on the plain pink because it was a little too plain.

 

[minnie2]

Everything that has been posted is simply DARLING!

That Mickey bandanna dress is great! I remember the 1st one and loved that too. hummm wonder if Nik would wear that? She may be too old

QUESTION:When you are sewing on your appliques, what type of thread do you use - regular or machine embroidery?

I use embroidery thread.

I'm fairly new to sewing but I have been wondering something as far as seam finishing....okay, when CarlaC says to finish the seam with a zig zag stitch, is the side of the zig zag stitch supposed to go off of the one side of the fabric so it kind of wraps around and helps it not to fray or are both ends supposed to be completely on the fabric? hopefully I explained this well enough....sorry if that is confusing....i'm very tired!

Yes she wants you to go over the edge of the fabric.

off of the one side of the fabric so it kind of wraps around and helps it not to fray

My sewing machine came with a special foot to make this easy.

I my over casting foot. I actually use that foot on every cut piece of a garment to stop the fraying and give it a fake serged look since I don't have a serger. I tis a pain in the but but I have become kind of OCD with it I have tried to not do it but I just simply can't


Here are 2 outifts I made for my BFF's twin's for their bday

 

[kstgelais4]

I started a pre-trip report! I've never done one before, so if anyone would like to follow along...

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2234126

 

[The Moonk's Mom]

My you guys were busy over the weekend. Dh was off so we got some great time with the kids. WE went to the zoo on Saturday...great day for that...the weather was perfect! We forgot the camera, so no pics...which turned out funny because we never had such great animal interactions!!! All the animals were out and about and really active...but I probably enjoyed not looking thru a camera lens the whole day too!

Now I am planning a trip to Virginia Beach...but I think I messed up. When I was checking rates last week, the hotel we wanted was $167 a night (which let me say is crazy!) but today it is $214!!!! That is a huge jump! I am about to call and see if they can cut if I pay in full today. We are only going because my FIL wanted us too and DH can never say no to him for some reason. He called last night telling him the things we need to bring with us that he left here a year ago! Um...you can come get it! So, now I have to pack all of our stuff and his stuff.... Rant over!

I did buy the Vida last week...should be here today I hope. I can't wait to give it a try. The first time I showed Katie, she didn't like it. But she is getting better at seeing a pattern without the fabric it may be made in at the time...so now shw likes it!

 

[pixeegrl]

Finally finished a few things.

Here's DD7's new first day of school outfit.

And here's the pink Skull skirt I mentioned a few days ago. I ended up adding a stripe of black lace on the plain pink because it was a little too plain.

Love them both, and the black lace adds great contrast!

 

[littlepeppers]

Hehe.. ya that is a big needle. I use that for doing hemstitching which is actually making holes in fabric.
I change my needle every couple of projects. It really annoys me that you really don't know when to change your needle. It is kind of a guessing game. I can sometimes hear that my needle is wearing by the noise the machine is making though. When it gets dull it kind of makes a tapping noise everytime the needle goes through the fabric.
I have a dress that I made and accidentally had a jeans needle on the embroidery machine. It made those little holes like yours did and I've washed it several times, and it is still okay. It looks like the applique would just be able to fall right through the dress, but it hasn't happened yet.
I use 75/11 for most woven fabrics. I use a microtex 65 when sewing finer weights. I bought this little wheel thing that you turn and it tells you which needle to use, but I can't find it.. lol

Ok, it is official. I need a needle lesson. Mine tapps. Now I know. I tend to use my embroidery needle for everything. I need to change needels? AHHHHa!

 

[pixeegrl]

Well, with all this new fabric I've been buying I figured I had better find a quick way to get rid of some of my stash...a simple pillowcase dress with applique...sorry, no Abby to model this time Gotta whip up some more of these. They are so easy. Angie wants a Minnie one for Abby.

Also two little over the shoulder bags for a friend's daughters annual Disney trip...

and for the older daughter....

By the way, there have been some Amazing outfits posted lately. I really need to get my butt in gear and make Abby a twirl outfit. The Princess Cuties I have seen or sooo cute too!

 

[Stephres]

I love it! Your daughter is so sassy dancing around!

Very sweet, I love how you added the fancy fabric to the skirt part. Tink is adorable and the vida turned out great!

I have a hard time keeping up too, especially when I am sewing or scrapbooking. I love the bright cheerful outfit. I have that fabric and I am afraid to cut it, lol.

Totally cute, I love the way it came out.

I know you have already received a ton of compliments but I had to add my adoration at the cuteness! I really love everything about it, the fabrics you chose, the twirliness, the fact your daughter is as cute as a button, really great job!

So people....... Today..........

I can officially be catagorized as old. Please everyone....... a minute of silence for my youth.

thank you.

Happy belated birthday cricut queen!

Cute little peanut! I love the outfits too, they really seem to suit her!

OK..I have a question for the experts here...My Grandmother was a seamstress. She always told me two things made the difference between a professional looking garmet and a sloppy garmet. One was seam finishing. The other was top stitching.

I know what to do for the seam finishing...but for the life of me I cannot get the topstitching looking right. I read CarlaC's blog where there is a special foot that helps with the edgestitching...but what about the top stitching?

Is there a secret to getting it looking straight and even...other than PPP (practice, persistence and patience)? It is driving me crazy!!!

Nini

I have seen a lot of outfits (mostly on ebay) where they topstitch in a contrasting color to the fabric. I always try to match my fabric as closely as I can when I topstitch to minimize the errors. But it really gets better with practice.

Cute! I did some stuff with t-shirts on my blog, but I started with Carla's raglan pattern so it would fit my daughter exactly right (math is totally not my thing). I would definitely recommend it.

So pretty, can you post the front again? I must have missed it the first time around, or I just want to see it again anyway, lol!

Cute, I was just thinking about back to school. I love how you added the lace to the skirt, it goes perfectly!

Totally cute Marlo! They will love them I am sure!

 

[tricia]

Everything that has been posted is simply DARLING!

That Mickey bandanna dress is great! I remember the 1st one and loved that too. hummm wonder if Nik would wear that? She may be too old


I use embroidery thread.



Yes she wants you to go over the edge of the fabric.

I my over casting foot. I actually use that foot on every cut piece of a garment to stop the fraying and give it a fake serged look since I don't have a serger. I tis a pain in the but but I have become kind of OCD with it I have tried to not do it but I just simply can't


Here are 2 outifts I made for my BFF's twin's for their bday

That is really cute. I just made PJ's for twin boys. I will post pics later this morning.

here is the last one with a smaller needle. I think I will redo this one tomorrow. I have plenty of the yellow dot. I liked the first 2 better. maybe because the bow or because I think I kept turning more square on this one instead of letting it "flow" on the turns.

i think I may try the smaller needle with the next one though. I have never really been taught how to sew with the exception of home ec in middle school. And that was back in '92. No one in my family sews anymore. the only ones that did are now gone. My mom knows how to sew but hasn't in a long time. The changing needle thing never entered my mind. plus it still seems pretty sharp. Hurt my finger getting it out. Then again I only probably have sewn 10 things since I bought that needle. The majority on my sewing has been this year. SOmetimes I feel like I need to take a sewing class but I feel like I know how to do a lot of stuff already. I think a one on one would be better for me so I can ask how to do the things I want to do. My cousin was a fabric arts major? not sure if that is what it was called - but she can dye her own fabric, make yarn, etc. She has a janome which is way better than my singer but I am sure she would be able to help me out.

OK, while we are asking these applique questions.... I see that the needle comes down on the left in the applique fabric, and on the right on the garment fabric and that the edge is in the middle of the stitch. Now, I thought in Heather's tute it said that the needle should come down on the applique fabric on both sides, but only catch 1 or 2 threads of the applique fabric on the right. Does this make sense? Is one way better than the other? And Why?

Finally finished a few things.

Here's DD7's new first day of school outfit.

And here's the pink Skull skirt I mentioned a few days ago. I ended up adding a stripe of black lace on the plain pink because it was a little too plain.

Cute. Love the pink skulls. My Tyler loves anything with skulls, (but nothing pink )

Well, with all this new fabric I've been buying I figured I had better find a quick way to get rid of some of my stash...a simple pillowcase dress with applique...sorry, no Abby to model this time Gotta whip up some more of these. They are so easy. Angie wants a Minnie one for Abby.

Also two little over the shoulder bags for a friend's daughters annual Disney trip...

and for the older daughter....

By the way, there have been some Amazing outfits posted lately. I really need to get my butt in gear and make Abby a twirl outfit. The Princess Cuties I have seen or sooo cute too!

Great. Love the 2 bags with the different appliques for the younger and older.

 

[minnie2]

thanks for the complements on the transformers outfits. I made Kyle the blue shirt one. My BFF and I have always called Kyle and Connor(one of her twins) personality twins since they where born. They are only 8 weeks apart. They should have been 3 but the twins came early. It is funny even when we are al together Kyle and Connor ALWAYS pair up and Christian the other twin ALWAYS pairs up with my DH! In WDW my DH called him 'Little B' for Little Buddy and Christian called DH Big B for 'big buddy'. It is so cute Christian actually calls and wants to talk to my dh! i hate that they aren't in the same state as us but maybe I can convince them to meet us in WDW again soon...

 

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Well, I'll be 47 in a couple of months so a bit older than your son. It's still hard for me to figure out how I got to this age and I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up.

I like to use the backside of fabric in my applique. Sometimes the print is too obvious on the 'right' side but just the right texture when turned over.

I have heard that poem of course, it seems like everyone has and a couple days ago Toadstool posted a link to a machine embroidery site that has a couple designs using the poem. Check out www.mollymine.com

Someone offered to pick up a few of those bandannas for me a while ago, and was never able to, would anyone here be willing to get me some or know where to get them online??

TIA!

Adi

I have 3 I can send you. Just PM me your address.

Hrm.. I did answer it, but I must have deleted it when I went and edited to make thumbnails I guess.
I was saying that I used embroidery thread when I did it. I am guessing you are talking about using the sewing machine? I used polyester embroidery thread, and it did really well. I know a lady that does alot of applique with her sewing machine for quilts, and she told me to use a lighter weight thread in the bobbin because it will allow the top thread to wrap under the fabric and not have the bobbin thread show. Also.. Embroidery thread is thinner and stretchier than cotton thread. I know that matters for machine embroidery.
Oh, and I forgot to mention that the lady told me to use serger thread in the bobbin.
I plan on doing more applique this way, but never get to it.
What are you working on??

My bobbin thread tends to wrap around to the top uggg it drives me crazy, I have tried the Sulky bobbin thread but it shows too. I use sulky thread in the top but what will work in the bobbin? I change my bobbin thread to be the same color as the top thread and it drives me crazy.

I took my needle out and it says 110/18 ( i have a singer) the package says for heavy duty sewing on heavyweight fabrics I never thought about that part I have been using the same needle for 2 years!
I have a package of different size needles - 80/11, 90/14 & 100/16
I have no idea which is for what though!
I just looked on Singer's website - I guess I should be using the 90/14 one - that is what the chart says for satin.

I use 80/11 for thin cottons like batiste, 90/14 for cottons and flannels and 100/16 for denim. Use ball point needles when you sew an applique on a t-shirt. When I made DD's first communion dress out of satin the lady at JoAnn's said to use a 70/09 ball point needle so it wouldn't snag the satin.

QUESTION:When you are sewing on your appliques, what type of thread do you use - regular or machine embroidery?

I use Sulky embroidery thread. It has a little bit of shine to it. It is on sale at JoAnn's.

 

[karebear1]

I made a feliz using Trillum's (here's the first one CLICK HERE) set of tutorials...they are down on the bottom right side under Free!!! I think they are in reverse order! Here's what I made...

Her tutorial shows you how to make all those cute ruffles!!!! HTH!!!

That dress is definetly a winner in the twirl department! How can I tell you ask?? The further the arms fly back while spinning- the better the twirl of the dress! Just ask any 5 year old..... they tell ya!

Here is what I did with the same shirt-------

I did put pintucks in the top to make it fit across. She is a skinny little 5Y.O. and the smallest t-shirt we could find was 7/8.

Who is this Phineas and Ferb you all speak of? Very cute use of a t-shirt!

Finally finished a few things.

Here's DD7's new first day of school outfit.

And here's the pink Skull skirt I mentioned a few days ago. I ended up adding a stripe of black lace on the plain pink because it was a little too plain.

With that first day of school outfit, your DD is sure to be a hit! That fabric is just too cute- and I love the colors on it.

I always love a skirt that stands on its own! the black on the pink really does make a difference in that skirt! Good pick!

Well, with all this new fabric I've been buying I figured I had better find a quick way to get rid of some of my stash...a simple pillowcase dress with applique...sorry, no Abby to model this time Gotta whip up some more of these. They are so easy. Angie wants a Minnie one for Abby.

Also two little over the shoulder bags for a friend's daughters annual Disney trip...

and for the older daughter....

By the way, there have been some Amazing outfits posted lately. I really need to get my butt in gear and make Abby a twirl outfit. The Princess Cuties I have seen or sooo cute too!

That pink and black.... I just love that combo! VERY CUTE little dress!

Those purses are adorable! I'm gonna have to remember those. I have a friend that is going to WDW in Decemeber and they have a 7 yeayr old DD- she would love that!

Thanks everyone for the b-day wishes!