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Celtic Flame Irish Dance Costumer's Message Board

Irish Dance Costumer's Message Board
Welcome to the message board for the designers and makers of Irish Dance Costumes, Irish Dancers of all ages, and others interested in Irish Dance. Please feel free to ask questions and give advice often! Check out the FAQ for these topics: Puffy Headband Instructions 4 & 5 Panel Dress Instructions and Poll Zipper Poll
FAQ Link

Subject: Shaped Neckline - has anyone and hints/tips on how to satin stitch a shaped neckline. I'm never happy with the result and usually end up sticking as many crystals as I can around the stitching.
Author: Mary [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, February 09, 02:18:28pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I think that there are some good pictures and explanations here: Murphydresses.com Scroll back to previous posts. (NT) -- No name, Tuesday, February 09, 02:36:03pm

Subject: skirt construction
Author: -- [Edit]	Date Posted: Monday, February 08, 05:23:27pm Has anyone seen one of these dresses in person? http://lewisirishdresses.com/2009%20NAN%27s%20to%20O%27s/houghfront.jpg How is the skirt constructed? I can't tell if the embroidered panels are pleated over a u-shaped piece (like a rah-rah skirt) of stiffener, or if there is stiffener in the pleats... Any ideas? [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I haven't seen a ML, but I have seen a similar design by ED (see style 8 in the gallery). The skirt is stiffened with the same type of interlining that was used in the older velvet and gaberdine dresses. It is coarse and not nearly as stiff as vilene. The skirt is lined and assembled much as you'd make a regular kilt or other (NT) -- pleated skirt., Tuesday, February 09, 08:29:41am Is this what some refer to as a tennis dress? (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, Tuesday, February 09, 08:48:47am

Subject: Fancy Feet - Got to Dance - Sunday Sky 1 & Sky HD - 6pm
Author: Thanks [Edit]	Date Posted: Friday, February 05, 02:15:47pm Taken from http://voy.com/210849/ Please can we all get behind these Irish Dancers. They are the only Irish Dancers to get through into the last 18 Semi Finalist on Got To Dance on Sky 1 & Sky HD. They need your votes THIS SUNDAY - 6pm Sky 1 & Sky HD Here is a link to their audition piece -http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGLAm9rWLAo&feature=player_embedded [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
How did they do??? Can't get SKY. (NT) -- DM, Monday, February 08, 03:17:10am Tell us about the results this weekend, please. (NT) -- ., Monday, February 08, 07:18:24am

Subject: I'm looking for any dressmakers in the Philadelphia area. I have someone who needs a dress made but I'm unable to do it because of distance and family issues. If you are interested you can email me at the address inside.
Author: km [Edit]	Date Posted: Friday, February 05, 06:01:38am whatsupgovna@hotmail.com [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
so much for the address being inside. How does one make that happen? (NT) -- km, Friday, February 05, 06:02:37am you put your email address in the box that's labeled "e-mail address (optional)" - your name will then appear in bold, and when someone clicks on it it takes them to a capcha screen that gives them access to your address -- like this - click here, Friday, February 05, 08:07:44am I'm in the Chicago area---if you don't find someone in Philli-- (NT) -- Aunt Stacy, Friday, February 05, 06:16:20am

Subject: Has anyone updated a panel dress to a soft skirt dress?
Author: how much would you charge? [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, February 04, 10:55:57pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I am almost done updating one to a semi-soft skirt...just charge your normal rate for as long as you think it will take...it is a bigger process than I thought it would be (NT) -- bg, Friday, February 05, 06:14:16am I didn't mean to mislead; I'm not a DM. I was thinking about having my daughter's dress updated -- thanks, Friday, February 05, 12:25:29pm you might want to contact some dressmakers individually. The different areas of the country have different price marks-hourly rates-etc (NT) -- bg, Friday, February 05, 03:41:35pm

Subject: Good luck to the dressmaker that posted her dresses for discussion on Voy boards.
Author: Yvonne [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, February 04, 07:24:48am http://www.voy.com/60473/140981.html http://www.voy.com/219460/36141.html [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Which voy board is this message posted on please (NT) -- M, Thursday, February 04, 07:52:52am 60473 and 219460 (NT) -- Moi, Thursday, February 04, 08:11:32am I'm the one that posted on the other boards. That's so sweet of you to wish me luck. I got lots of great feedback. (NT) -- Vicky, Tuesday, February 09, 06:51:51am

Subject: Loads of dresses posted on www.secondchancedance.biz
Author: Declan [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, February 03, 01:02:53am Hi, Thanks all who helped with our site. We now have over 60 dresses for sale on the site http://www.secondchancedance.biz There are some really nice dresses listed I would like to thank all those who helped Declan [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

Subject: New plisse fabrics in stock
Author: idFabrics.com [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, February 02, 11:50:01pm http://www.idfabrics.com/PP59.html (bright pink) and http://www.idfabrics.com/PP58.html (aqua green) Other colours available: Mauve, Violet, Aubergine, Royal Purple, Dark Pink, Chocolate, Bright Yellow, Pale Yellow, Emerald, Red, Light Blue, Navy, Petrol Blue, Black and White. Email for info idfabrics at gmail.com [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I posted a link to your site on the dance.net board, since many have gone there in search of (NT) -- these fabrics Thank you for offering them, Wednesday, February 03, 07:55:20am Ooh!!!!!! That is pretty stuff! What color is petrol blue? (NT) -- LynnOH, Friday, February 05, 08:14:50am To be honest petrol blue is not really an ID colour! It's a dirty mid-blue, kind of like denim. (NT) -- OP, Sunday, February 07, 06:34:27am

Subject: Wondering if anyone would know where I can find the red sequin checKer pattern fabric on the Avoca OTR ref 9? Please :)
Author: thank you :) [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 31, 05:04:43pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
actually more of a lattice than checkered (NT) -- :), Sunday, January 31, 06:53:40pm haven't seen that one, but this one came to mind--link inside -- x, Sunday, January 31, 08:22:49pm

Subject: Does anyone have 1 yard of Bubble Gum Pink velvet (from Distinctive) OR
Author: Anyone?? [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 31, 10:36:58am I need to order some, but there's a 5 yard minimum, would anyone like to buy some of the leftover 4 yards or less? I dont wnat to be stuck with all this, Im moving. There's a photo of it on the website under special order colors.Thanks! [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Perhaps you could post the rest of it on ebay? Velvets seem to sell well there - I always miss the auctions! (NT) -- --, Monday, February 01, 06:10:17pm I could, but I'm trying to save money, since.. -- op, Wednesday, February 03, 05:12:03pm why don't you buy from another place---where there is no minimum? (NT) -- xx, Wednesday, February 03, 08:41:03pm Have you tried the velvet from Stretch House? i just received swatches from them and there's a pink that might work for you. (NT) -- Terrie, Friday, February 05, 11:59:14am

Subject: Cupcake style skirts - I'm going to attempt to make my first cupcake skirt for my dd and was wondering what type of fabric others use? Thanks for your help!
Author: irishdancingmom [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 31, 10:17:53am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
For the skirt, you can use less fabric if you use a crisp fabric like a taffetta or organza. Soft satins and chiffons require more fabric to give fullness. (NT) -- DM, Sunday, January 31, 02:59:34pm Remember this needs to be cut on the bias which adds some yardage. (NT) -- LynnOH, Sunday, January 31, 11:15:35pm Why is that? BTW-Just asking a question, not questioning your info. No one has explained it yet, so I want to understand. (NT) -- Thanks, Friday, February 05, 01:57:21pm Cutting on the bias gives the fabric a stretchy quality you can't get from cutting on grain. That's why you want to make a bias cut when you are making a binding tape, too. (NT) -- Dancing Dance Mom, Tuesday, February 09, 01:07:29pm

Subject: CPSC has issued a stay of enforcement regarding the new laws
Author: issued on 12/18/2009 [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 31, 09:32:59am have any of you read this? I was just on the website-looks like another reprieve for anyone making dresses? or is this old news? [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
News to me. Do you know how long the extension is? Perhaps they are coming to their senses? We could only hope! (NT) -- Great news, Sunday, January 31, 10:17:42am the stay was until Feb 2010...now we wait and see what Feb brings... (NT) -- x, Sunday, January 31, 10:38:32am I think the Feb. 2010 date has been in place since last year. (NT) -- :), Sunday, January 31, 04:37:39pm ya---I wonder what day in Feb we can expect some news? (NT) -- x, Monday, February 01, 07:02:25am

Subject: Looking for colors in confetti dot (glitter dot) fabric
Author: ny mom [Edit]	Date Posted: Saturday, January 30, 03:11:53pm Can anyone here tell me if confetti dot fabric is available in yellow and orange? I need red, blue, green, purple (all available at my Joanns), but hard time finding yellow and orange....thought surely someone here would know! Thank you! (this is not for an ID dress, in case you were wondering what I'm doing with that awful combination of colors!!!) [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
check ebay - will probably find it cheap there! (NT) -- ., Saturday, January 30, 03:32:42pm I have seen orange from time to time, yellow not really - but gold may work for you? (NT) -- Good Luck!, Saturday, January 30, 05:08:52pm i bought both colors before at NY Fabrics I will check and post the website her in a few (NT) -- Laura, Saturday, January 30, 05:42:40pm it was called ny elegant but i can't get on the website, but i know they have it on the website syfabric.com its in calif. but you can order from there. (NT) -- laura, Saturday, January 30, 05:57:06pm Try Fishmans Fabrics; they have the best color selection for glitter dot, http://www.fishmansfabrics.com/bseqdot.htm (NT) -- Cher, Saturday, January 30, 08:26:22pm JoAnn Fabrics has confetti dot in many colors in their stores (NT) -- DK about online, but I'd check, Sunday, January 31, 09:30:11pm Thank you all. found what i needed at syfabrics. com -- op, Monday, February 01, 01:43:06pm

Subject: Does anyone know a source for the pleated frill Mary S. used on the hem of this dress?
Author: http://www.dance-again.com/X501.html [Edit]	Date Posted: Saturday, January 30, 10:27:09am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
looks like white pleated organza--you can purchase white organza and have a company pleat it for you---if you can't find it---I was just at JoAnns...might have seen some there...not sure if they had white (NT) -- bg, Saturday, January 30, 11:19:24am It was custom made by a fabric shop in New York, and has a lovely sheen - glad you like it! (NT) -- Mary S., Saturday, January 30, 03:08:43pm I've purchased some off ebay in the past-have found it recently-getting ready to purchase more (NT) -- just do a search, Saturday, January 30, 09:12:57pm Which eBay (NT) -- US, ca, uk or au?, Monday, February 01, 02:38:43pm US-here is item # -- from recent purchase, Wednesday, February 03, 04:35:19am Thank you! Now, they are offering navy, peach and white edging (NT) -- too, Wednesday, February 03, 07:58:40am

Subject: New law regarding components of garments for
Author: children [Edit]	Date Posted: Saturday, January 30, 06:48:43am are any of you still making OTR dresses for younger ages? how are you verifying that all fabrics meet standards? and who/what govt.agency will be investigating garment manufacturers? I think this will be hard to enforce/regulate-just look at the pageant/dance industry-huge in NA [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is the body putting forth the law. I am asking my suppliers for 'proof of compliance'....not sure how they will enforce, but the fines are high enough to warrant being very careful! (NT) -- x, Saturday, January 30, 09:27:17am But from what I understand, since we are making individual dresses, technically we have to have EACH dress tested...so make 2 and send one away to be tested??? -- so frustrated!!, Saturday, January 30, 10:01:00am Your interpretation and understanding is correct. Even if components comply (NT) -- the combined unit must be tested, Saturday, January 30, 10:23:43am and even the big companies making dresses must adhere to -- these laws?, Saturday, January 30, 03:39:34pm If a customer gives me a bag of fabric and asks me to make a dress from that fabric, I would only be charging the customer for my services only - not necessarily the product itself. (NT) -- any thoughts?, Saturday, January 30, 03:41:23pm I'm thinking that this will only effect non-USA dressmakers trying to send dresses into the US and US dressmakers trying to sell OTR dresses. -- ., Saturday, January 30, 05:34:28pm so just to clarify-if I make a dress, to avoid breaking the law I should probably do an OTR for U12 and older? am assuming the law applies to the boys costumes (NT) -- as well, Sunday, January 31, 05:51:07am The law applies to children (boys & girls) 12 and under, so you'll want to make OTR for 13+ (NT) -- my understanding, Sunday, January 31, 01:54:33pm

Subject: senior team
Author: Rose. [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 28, 04:33:40pm Our school have decided to change team dresses.Keeping the same basic color just up dating style.We are going to start with the senior teams all 17 years and over.What style skirt would be most slimming? We have looked at hundreds of photos of latest styles but still can not decide.Thanks. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
The skirts all kind of flare out one way or another, so I'm not sure if that's going to "slim" the girls down. I'd suggest working with a darker color or a bodice with a longer, tapered design. (NT) -- Penny, Friday, January 29, 02:03:38pm Soft skirts with petticoats under (not too fluffy) and a drop waist bodice will probably be the most flattering. Dark bodice and matching or mid-tone skirt. Bodices with v-embroidery (wider at the shoulders, tapering to a point down the bodice) look nice on most body types. (NT) -- --, Saturday, January 30, 12:30:10am team dress -- Rose, Saturday, January 30, 02:23:14pm How about a simple princess riverdance type dress? (NT) -- would look good on all types of body, Thursday, February 04, 06:25:45am

Subject: Looking for fabric stiffener
Author: Sandy [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 28, 11:07:25am Hi, sorry if this seems a bit dumb, but I�m really new to the whole dressmaking thing. I�m in the process of making a set of velvet performance dresses. Now I�m looking for a Vilene type iron-on stiffener to give the skirt a bit of "stand". I don�t want it as stiff as a 3-panel, but still kind of stiffened. I don�t know what strength I should use, in fact I don�t know much about the diffrent types at all. Could anybody please advise me? [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Go to a fabric store and look at the different weights of interfacing, The weight of what you want depends on what you are using for the skirt, and how stiff you want it to be. Wallmart has a bunch too. (NT) -- good luck, Thursday, January 28, 01:21:22pm Try a product called craft fuse. It is a heavy weight interfacing without being stiff. (NT) -- Use it a lot!, Thursday, January 28, 03:47:51pm I use 808 craft fuse, or 805 (NT) -- works nicely, Thursday, January 28, 08:00:49pm How do you fuse it to velvet? Doesn't it crush it when heat applied? (NT) -- Newbie, Thursday, January 28, 08:51:48pm You can iron fuse it to velvet aswell, just don�t put the velvet side of the fabric on a hard surface. I prefer another layer of velvet, and don�t apply pressure, it�s the heat that fuses the stiffener on. I always tried this on a few fabric scraps first. (NT) -- nn, Friday, January 29, 03:24:27am Many thanks for the recommendation, I�m not in the US, but fortunately you can get anything on ebay, LOL. I�ll try this one. (NT) -- Sandy, Friday, January 29, 03:28:04am

Subject: Food for thought
Author: http://www.voy.com/60473/ [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 28, 10:01:25am New post on the main board. I don't care if the poster seems judgemental. I think she is right. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I agree wholeheatedly with her---we are selling our country! Now politicians can accept any amount of "contributions" to their campains from a foreigner??? REALLY now they can buy our officials??? (NT) -- ugh :\|, Thursday, January 28, 11:28:20am wholeheartedly---need to preview! (NT) -- ugh, Thursday, January 28, 11:29:10am That is just sickening! (NT) -- Ugh!, Thursday, January 28, 01:23:04pm Not true about foreign contributions. Just look back at Justice Alito's comment when Obama mentioned this in sou address - "That's not true". Nvertheless as a small DM I do find it frustraing to hear things like "i have never seen a dress that fits as well ... blah blah". I certainly think I have made a few that compare - and for a lot less. Still we have to admire the creativity (NT) -- MJ, Wednesday, February 03, 10:50:13pm There is another post about dress requirements now. Perhaps it will get some parents/teachers thinking outside of the BN box. (NT) -- sdm, Friday, January 29, 06:27:51pm where is the post?? (NT) -- bg, Friday, January 29, 09:35:29pm

Subject: I notice some ribbon edging used on the soft style skirts
Author: What is it and where do you get it? [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, January 27, 05:38:30pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
link to photo showing such a (NT) -- dress?, Thursday, January 28, 04:23:20am The coral 3tier (NT) -- http://www.shamrockstitchery.com/index.html, Thursday, January 28, 11:43:14am Just looks like black/dark ribbon with crystals glued on it. (NT) -- not something unique or hard to do, Thursday, January 28, 12:02:47pm Or black satin stitiching with crystals- (NT) -- Lots of crystals, Thursday, January 28, 01:01:02pm

Subject: Need some advice--my first attempt at making a solo dress for my daughter. Having trouble with the bodice fit, seems to be ok in the bust, but wide in the lower third. I thought to take in the back seems there, so it should be ok. We have some pooching or extra in the top 1/4 above the bust. Try as I might, I can't seem to get it to lay right on the kid. She's 13, and very slim. I'm using a princess line, should I go to a darted bodice?
Author: Thanks for the help! [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, January 27, 08:02:07am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Seams, sorry! (NT) -- x, Wednesday, January 27, 08:03:07am If it poucing in the top the pattern size is too big. Go down a size (NT) -- ., Wednesday, January 27, 10:40:53am Only go down a size if this one is too big in the shoulders and neck. Otherwise, take this in a bit, but allow room for breathing heavy [after dancing]. (NT) -- WCanada DM, Wednesday, January 27, 06:03:18pm Thx for the advice-now if I take in the bodice, doesn't this alter the armcye? how does one fix that? If the bust is 31, the armcye height is 8, how does one take in the bodice, without altering the arm hole? (NT) -- thank you very much!, Thursday, January 28, 10:48:12am You may have to cut down the armscye. Take off the sleeves, if they are attached, and have her put on the bodice. Pin out the fullness. Look at the underarm. If the fabric is too high, mark it with chalk or pins and lower it . You may want to try this in muslin first. (NT) -- a dm, Thursday, January 28, 12:45:51pm That's what I thought-thanks! (NT) -- x, Thursday, January 28, 01:05:29pm trouble with bodice fit (13 yr old) -- Philippa, Saturday, February 06, 06:52:30pm bodice fit -- Philippa, Saturday, February 06, 07:01:36pm Here's my cheat for fixing a pesky bodice. 1)Always use a muslin first or work with the lining of the bodice. 2) Baste together and then put it on the dancer INSIDE OUT. Then pin seams to fit. Sew it again to those specs, removing pins as you go. Or draw along the pin lines in chalk, then take it all apart and recut the whole thing 5/8" away from chalk lines. And then you have a pattern that fits. (NT) -- hope it helps., Monday, February 08, 11:28:28am

Subject: Can I use gem-tac to secure hot-fix crystals? .Don't have a hot fix tool and "inherited" lots of crystals...:)
Author: thank you [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, January 27, 07:39:59am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Yes, it works great. Go slowly, and carefully so there are no drips or splats! Works very well. (NT) -- have fun, Wednesday, January 27, 07:51:33am Use a pancake griddle.: turn the crystals so the glue side it up, wait for the glue to bubble then use a pin (stick it in the glue) to pick one up, put it in place glue side down and press with a finger that has been wrapped in 2 cloth bandages. Easy, fast, no smell! (NT) -- ., Wednesday, January 27, 12:09:53pm clever!!! (NT) -- bg, Wednesday, January 27, 01:19:57pm You can also use the hot plate on a coffee maker. Place the crystals with the glue side up and wait for them to bubble then follow the directions above. Decided to add extra crystals at the "O" and this worked amazing (NT) -- ecr irish mama, Wednesday, January 27, 02:47:46pm I've used an electric fry pan, a George Forman grill and an upside down iron with the steam setting turned off. Yes, you can use glue on hotfix. If a hotfix crystal falls off, you must use glue (NT) -- The hot stuff works but once., Wednesday, January 27, 05:39:16pm Thank you so much...:) (NT) -- me, Wednesday, January 27, 09:17:17pm

Subject: Pattern Query
Author: Mags [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, January 27, 03:23:27am Has anyone come across a pattern for a girls blouse wih a high neck that closes up the back. It's a school blouse and the teacher wants to move supplier due to timing delays with all previous orders. All help appreciated [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Link to Pattern inside. Has just the blouse you are talking about. I have made it many times and it is easy to use and fits nice. -- MHH, Wednesday, January 27, 09:55:17am I can't find a pattern on this site. Am I missing it? All I see are costumes to purchase or order. (NT) -- a dm, Monday, February 01, 07:33:31am

Subject: Janome MB4 For sale/ 2 years old. links inside to information about the machine.
Author: Jillian [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 26, 04:33:59pm http://janome.com/index.cfm/Machines/Embroidery/MB-4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHAylG2dJd8 Email if your interested sewirish@bigpond.net.au [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
why are you selling it? (NT) -- me, Tuesday, January 26, 04:41:23pm how much? (NT) -- please, Tuesday, January 26, 07:35:32pm What is the largest embroidery field? 4 threads, wow. :-) (NT) -- price?, Tuesday, January 26, 09:39:45pm Janome MB4 for sale -- Jillian, Wednesday, January 27, 03:05:06am

Subject: Cut lace fabric for sale: I'm trying to make space in my sewing room. I have three pieces of cut lace fabric, scalloped on both edges, heavily beaded and sequined. Light green 134" long, light blue, 112", and gold 112". All are 50" wide and very pretty. I'd love to see them go to an ID DM home. $20/yd + shipping. Email me for pics.
Author: Sonia [Edit]	Date Posted: Monday, January 25, 03:39:35pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I forgot to mention I'm in Southern California and I could arrange pick up at the next local feis to save on shipping. (NT) -- Sonia., Monday, January 25, 08:25:55pm

Subject: Does anyone have 1 yard of "magenta" stretch velvet from Distinctive Fabrics?
Author: I dont need 5 yards Thanks [Edit]	Date Posted: Monday, January 25, 11:29:03am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
does it have to be from distinctive? link inside to another magenta -- bg, Wednesday, January 27, 08:04:07am

Subject: Hi ladies. To get a nice tight wavy hem on a cupcake skirt, you serge heavyweight fishing line to the hem of fabric cut on the bias, do you also need to heavily pleat the top to get the tight curls. Thank you.
Author: Caroline [Edit]	Date Posted: Monday, January 25, 03:34:50am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
I run a long stitch at he top and pull---then lots of unwinding... (NT) -- me, Monday, January 25, 06:25:59am

Subject: Black Plisse Fabric
Author: Help!!! [Edit]	Date Posted: Friday, January 22, 12:28:33pm Anyone have any sources for Black Plisse Fabric? Would really appreciate your suggestions! [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
you order the fabric from a fabric store that will send it out and have it pleated for you... (NT) -- me, Friday, January 22, 10:31:35pm Where are you located? I got some black pleated taffeta from Adelaide Australia - but they don't have a website only phone details (NT) -- Aus DM, Monday, January 25, 03:20:55am I would be interested in the details of this adelaide store as I am in syd and would love to get some fabric pleated, thanks. (NT) -- Ina., Thursday, January 28, 03:17:12pm Hi Ina, I have some, but it's not up on my site yet. Has a nice sheen to it. Email me for more info. (NT) -- Rachel - idfabrics at gmail dot com, Sunday, January 31, 11:24:51pm

Subject: Pageant dress into ID dress--has anyone actually done this successfully? I know it has been discussed.
Author: Thanks. [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 21, 01:50:41pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
would love to know this too... (NT) -- :), Thursday, January 21, 05:24:21pm Saw a prom dress made into an ID dress at Nans last year. It was really pretty. I think they did a very nice job. (NT) -- can be done., Thursday, January 21, 06:43:51pm

Subject: Czech or Swarovski search. The Rhinestone Guy is out of the crystals I need. Anyone have another option for heat sets, 30ss Citrine? Need minimum of 2 gross. Thank you.
Author: Terri E CO [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 21, 01:29:51pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Terri, did you try M & J. or ejoyce. they ship quick from NYC. PS I got your email, sorry I've been swamped. Talk to ya soon! (NT) -- Sharon, Thursday, January 21, 03:01:09pm Thanks Sharon - I'll try in the morning. (NT) -- Terri E CO, Thursday, January 21, 10:20:09pm With ejoyce, don't just go by the website colors. Call them live. Often they have rare or discontinued colors, (NT) -- but don't list them on the site, Sunday, January 24, 09:54:02pm tamis place . com (NT) -- bg, Friday, January 22, 06:07:56am You are in prime figure skating territory. Isn't there a fabric store in your area catering to skater costumers? I get my crystals from this type of store in my state. (NT) -- Happy shopping, Friday, January 22, 08:17:36pm Thanks everyone but I'm still not finding what I need. Beginning to think they do not make Citrine, 30ss, hotfix crystals, either Swarovski or Czech. Need hotfix and only in 30ss. If you know of any, please let me know. Otherwise it's glue! (NT) -- Terri E CO, Saturday, January 23, 11:29:52pm All I see are 34SS hotfix at DreamtimeCreations or HotfixQueen! Guess you're right--30SS doesn't seem to exist! (NT) -- AM, Sunday, January 24, 10:33:44am I saw 34ss in a couple places (hot fix queen & dreamtime creations), but no 30ss - odd! I did find an ebay auction which might be the right color, link inside -- =), Sunday, January 24, 01:31:03pm Is this what you need? (NT) -- http://www.threadart.com/shop/item.asp?itemid=744, Sunday, January 24, 07:21:38pm I just posted the above and it occured to me that those are probably NOT crystal but acrylic, judging by 1) the price and 2) lack of the word 'crystal' in any part of the description whatsoever (NT) -- :(, Sunday, January 24, 07:26:39pm I'm checking, but I suspect the same. Thank you though! (NT) -- Terri E CO, Sunday, January 24, 08:34:26pm

Subject: donations welcome
Author: mum [Edit]	Date Posted: Wednesday, January 20, 12:31:36pm hi i work in a special needs school and would welcome any donations of sparkle materials and sequins etc to make pictures and tshirts with visually impaired students , please contact me if you feel you can offer me any i'm sure the kids would enjoy them . [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
hi sorry i forgot to say i live in newcastle on tyne uk (NT) -- mum, Wednesday, January 20, 12:36:02pm

Subject: Do any of you ladies ever have fabric scraps to get rid of?
Author: Sandie [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 05:02:43pm I make these cute Irish Dancer sock monkeys to resemble the dancers. I try to do a simplified version of the ID dress. It is often hard to find the right glitsy fabrics in my local JoAnns. And I only need little bits. I was thinking these are pieces that are probably to small for you to use (but I might be wrong). I often need just a few square inches of a color although when I buy it I have to buy at least 1/8 yard. This is usally 2 or 3 times what I need for the main part of a dress. If anyoone has small pieces to send me to recycle, I could build up a stash that I could search through before going shopping. I could send a check to cover your postage. What do you think; Would anyone be interested in this? My website has picures of a couple of monks and my mailing address - http://www.PurpleFlamingoOnline.com Thanks, [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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I often end up with small scrap pieces of blingy fabrics that I can't use anymore, but are too nice to be thrown away or sent to school craft bins. Would happily donate so they can be turned into something special! Email me if you'd like... (NT) -- Jess Knight, Tuesday, January 19, 07:15:38pm Thanks Jess! I will email you later this week. (NT) -- Sandie, Wednesday, January 20, 05:31:43pm I have loads of small pieces. Email me if you would like them (NT) -- MJ, Saturday, January 23, 03:27:00pm

Subject: Strange question...anyone know what the inside skirt of the siopa rince dresses with the stiff center panel looks like? friend is looking to remove center panel and move ruffles about to update on one that she is considering buying. she's asking me, because I sort of sew but have no idea if this would work without knowing the construction.
Author: thank you [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 03:27:13pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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I have not seen a Siopa Rince dress. Kilkenny in Kentucky USA builds the skirt like a 3-panel with the ruffles attached on top in front. The back was more like a soft skirt with ruffles attached. The lining was the same as a 3-panel. (NT) -- LynnToledo, Thursday, January 21, 09:23:22am

Subject: I'm having a sort out! Patterns for sale:
Author: email if interested [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 02:04:02pm Irish Threads Girls size 10, $9. Irish Threads Girls size 12, $9. Feis Dress Girls D, $15. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

Subject: Where could you order the curly ribbon trim that's in the cupcake dresses
Author: ny mom [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 01:59:45pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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Isn't it fishing line? (NT) -- Not sure, Tuesday, January 19, 03:19:17pm Pretty sure you have to make it yourself by sewing fishing line onto the edge of bias cut fabric (NT) -- that's what I do, Tuesday, January 19, 04:47:54pm

Subject: Ann's got a bunch of new designs in her files - I haven't seen all of them on her website/blog. It is worth checking out her photostream.
Author: Link inside [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 10:37:21am http://www.flickr.com/photos/taoknitter/collections/72157612734643948/ [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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Thank you for the shout out...I appreciate it. (NT) -- AnnD, Tuesday, January 19, 06:22:43pm Hi Ann - I'm curious about this one design in your "OTHER" folder. It looks like lace. Is that for ID? I can't get my head around how you'd hoop that and make it work. (NT) -- ., Thursday, January 21, 10:59:03am Yup, that was an experiment that Susan Gowin and I were fooling with...you can see some there that look blue in some parts, right? ... -- AnnD, Thursday, January 21, 02:14:44pm Ann is the best I use her designs and I have her digitize for me.. (NT) -- Laura (maine), Wednesday, January 20, 08:46:10am Laura! Are you making the solos for the Stillson School these days? Your dresses are fantastic! (NT) -- Laura Fan!, Friday, January 22, 12:26:49pm this is Laura, yes I had made several this year, thanks for noticing!! (NT) -- laura (maine), Friday, January 22, 08:43:14pm Stunning work, Laura! Keep it up!!! (NT) -- ; ), Saturday, January 23, 12:45:56pm

Subject: Need advice...I've been asked to add crystals to a dress. The parent is willing to pay time and materials, but what is a good hourly rate?
Author: K [Edit]	Date Posted: Tuesday, January 19, 07:54:40am I peeled off old crystals/beads, determined the layout, and applied the crystals. She's a friend, but my concern is now other parents may be interested in having me do the same for them. I want to be fair, and definitely don't plan on making this a second job. I'm enjoying helping someone who's creatively challenged. Thanks! [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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I charge the same amount for crystal application as I do for dress construction. When you describe your process, they will understand the charges. (NT) -- hpyswr, Tuesday, January 19, 08:03:08am Good to know. Do you mind sharing the rate? I'm including my email in case you'd rather not publish online. Thanks! (NT) -- K, Tuesday, January 19, 08:32:03am Hourly rates are very subjective. Mine is based on where I live, that I work from home, my experience, and whether it is a solo project or a school prject. more..... -- hpyswr, Tuesday, January 19, 08:51:17am Yes, hourly rates are subjective but the OP is looking a guide line. Can you not post your rate, stating how many years you have been doing dresses, do you live in a small town or large town, and what part of the country i.e. Northeast, South, SoCal etc? The info would help those of us looking to engage someone have a good idea of going rate. (NT) -- Curious Customer, Tuesday, January 19, 10:34:13am Is this a fulltime thing of just part-time hobby? FT is easy, you need to earn a living so figure out what you need each month and cal the hourly rate. I have a ft job for approx 3k a month, which works out to an hourly rate of $17/hour. That is pro-tax of course. If I were to do this FT or alongside as a hobby, I might charge between $12-15 per hour plus materials (NT) -- to give you a subjective guideline., Tuesday, January 19, 10:42:38am Definitely part-time hobby, something I would only do for families in my school, and not something I want to do full time (have a full time job - completely unrelated). (NT) -- Thanks! K, Tuesday, January 19, 11:15:32am

Subject: Pattern for sale
Author: email if interested [Edit]	Date Posted: Monday, January 18, 02:35:15pm used Feisdress Girls size D-skirt portion completely uncut selling for $25 which includes shipping [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

Subject: Velvet
Author: Christina [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 17, 08:32:44pm I went to Joann's today with a 50% coupon in hand..of course the velvet was 30% off (and with limited selection available) so I didn't purchase anything. I did however get the Vogue pattern that a couple people here suggested for the bodice. =) I'm making a simple velvet dress for myself on a college student budget, and trying to keep the costs down. How do you think the Velvet is from Denver Fabrics? They have "triple velvet" http://www.denverfabrics.com/catalog_itemdetail.aspx?ItmID=V109-C1 and they have 100% cotton velvet. http://www.denverfabrics.com/catalog_itemdetail.aspx?ItmID=AAA262 any experience with either? They don't offer samples, so I'm hoping I wont have to order an 1/8 of each and pay through the nose for shipping. Thank you for your advice. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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I personally do not care for cotton velvets as I don't think they look as rich as other types. I've used triple from other sources and it's been fine. Good luck on your new dress. (NT) -- Terri E CO, Sunday, January 17, 08:37:45pm Thank you! I think I'll go with the Triple Velvet then. (NT) -- OP, Sunday, January 17, 08:51:32pm try white lodge fabrics (NT) -- they send free samples, Sunday, January 17, 11:21:20pm Personally, I really dislike the triple velvet. It tends to creep and crush and is generally difficult to work with. I'd reccomend trying to find a micro velvet (idfabrics.com carries fantastic colors!). However, if you can't find anything else, triple is better than cotton velvet (unless you find a plush cotton velvet - they're lovely!). (NT) -- good luck!, Monday, January 18, 01:40:19am I've had free samples of stretch velvet from both whitelodgefabric.com and online-fabrics.co.uk and both were great. Went with Online Fabrics as Whitelodge were out of stock of the one I wanted. Stretch velvet is fine as long as you interface it. Would not recommend cotton velvet - too thick and heavy. (NT) -- R, Monday, January 18, 06:58:48am I use cotton velvet all the time. Grreat colours - looks rich, Easy to embroidery as well (NT) -- ,,, Monday, January 18, 04:15:45pm Love the cotton velvet from Threads of Green, good quality and sooooo easy to work with, embroiders beautifully and looks fantastic. Wish they had the colour range of the stretch velvets though. Find the other velvets too (NT) -- tempermental. :-), Monday, January 18, 08:11:18pm Their cotton velvet is exspensive, but fantastic! I've been told its a plush cotton velvet, rather than a cotton velvet or velveteen, so its much softer and richer than average. (NT) -- --, Tuesday, January 19, 11:46:55am Yes, it's more plush than any cotton velvet I've come across, so that it looks as rich. Again, much much easier to work with than any velvet I've used. No floppiness etc. (NT) -- cheers, Wednesday, January 20, 03:59:26pm There you go! All kinds of opinions and options...all useful bits of info. I agree that getting samples is really your best bet. I have had good luck with Textile Fabrics in Nashville and Vickie is great about sending out swatches. Honestly, if you are not familiar with sewing this type of dress, the cottons might be the easiest. The others do tend to be squirrelly. (NT) -- Terri E CO, Monday, January 18, 09:36:17pm Thank you everyone for your opinions, they're so appreciated. I've made a few dresses already, although it's been a while since I've touched velvet. Luckily any little bit of crushing in the velvet, shouldn't be a huge problem, since the sating stitching in my design will be fairly simple. (NT) -- OP, Monday, January 18, 09:56:22pm

Subject: Please help-New Gavin-might need to add 1 " because of new length rule
Author: MAID [Edit]	Date Posted: Sunday, January 17, 08:33:31am It's a cut out hem. Don't want to sell. What would you recommend? Do you think a petticoat would save it? [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
First make sure the dress is not too tight in other areas. Next, see if there is let out in the bodice seam allowance where it attaches to the skirt. A peticoat will only work with some styles. Find a local alterations person. (NT) -- Don't worry!, Sunday, January 17, 11:36:12am Is there some letdown in the bodice? Is there a curly ruffle which could be duplicated at the hem? (NT) -- Ask Gavin?, Sunday, January 17, 12:50:24pm Dress is absolutely perfect everywhere else so it's the hemline (just in case they become VERY serious about length) Just looking for ideas from those in the know. (NT) -- OP, Sunday, January 17, 01:41:27pm Wear a slightly longer tutu underneath - you'll be fine! (NT) -- Don't make it more complicated than you need to, Wednesday, January 20, 11:02:24am Possibly lenthen the bodice by adding a yoke or "belt"? (NT) -- R, Monday, January 18, 07:00:32am Thank you for your suggestons. Dress already has a rhinestone belt so will have to add to the bottom (NT) -- OP, Tuesday, January 19, 12:06:47pm Depending on the style of skirt, maybe you could add a pleated trim to the bottom of it. (NT) -- R, Wednesday, January 20, 07:41:11am To R That is actually what we're going to do. I found black satin cupcake fabric by accident. Thank you tfor all the helpful suggestions (NT) -- feismom, Saturday, January 23, 08:33:00am Good luck with the alterations and hope it turns out well. (NT) -- R, Tuesday, January 26, 07:37:05am

Subject: General question about dress measurements
Author: sorry to seem stupid [Edit]	Date Posted: Saturday, January 16, 12:29:27pm why do dressmakers ask for the bodice measurement to be taken at the center neckline-below the shoulderline? seems to me that the dress hangs from the shoulders-not a few inches below? I have found many websites showing directions for measuring a person when making a dress-some say to measure from bony area of top of chest,others say measure from side of neck-along shoulder area-the measurements can be vastly different-and not all bodies are created equal. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
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I ask for both. It is possible the DM is working from a pattern which will have the proper drop. (NT) -- Ask the DM you are working with., Saturday, January 16, 03:23:25pm Because no neck is created equal! I actually take many measurements to make sure that the bodice fits since neck widths, circumferences, shoulder widths, slopes, etc are always different. That center measurement along with other bodice length measurements allow me to make a bodice that fits a particular dancer. (NT) -- srdm, Saturday, January 16, 10:11:46pm The more measurements, the better. (NT) -- imho, Sunday, January 17, 09:03:45am Because when cutting the neckline, you don't want it past the collar bones. (NT) -- a useful measurement, Sunday, January 17, 02:49:36pm

Subject: Does any one know of a skirt pattern that is made from a full circle of fabric.Thanks
Author: Purchased in UK [Edit]	Date Posted: Friday, January 15, 05:24:23am [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
forgot to say skirt needs to be above the knee (NT) -- OP, Friday, January 15, 05:26:39am In the US, there are circle skirt patterns in most pattern books. Look for a "poodle" skirt in the costume section of Butterick, Simplicity or McCalls (NT) -- All should offer one., Friday, January 15, 09:08:31am Here is link to how to make your own circle skirt pattern that is pretty easy to do. (NT) -- km, Saturday, January 16, 08:46:22am Did you forget to leave the link, i can't find anything :( (NT) -- thanks, Sunday, January 17, 07:18:08am

Subject: I need to get some embroidery on a dress repaired - it has unravelled quite a bit on a piece of it. Where would I got to get the dress repaired? Origianl dressmaker is not an option. Many thanks.
Author: . [Edit]	Date Posted: Thursday, January 14, 12:43:12pm [ Post a Reply to This Message ]
Replies:
Perhaps a dry cleaner who does alterations. Or maybe contact an embroiderer, even a local embroidery shop might be able to help you. (NT) -- just a thought, Thursday, January 14, 01:00:15pm repairing embroidery -- mary, Wednesday, January 20, 07:39:29am

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