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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: Looking for information on purchasing Swarovski crystals online. Plus the stick thingy to attach the crystals. We live in Toronto, Canada and would appreciate info on quickest source of delivery.


Author:
3dancersmom
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 24, 01:03:40pm


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Subject: I also am looking for a bodice/with sleeve pattern that I can use for a solo dress. I am creating a dress for a little one and need to work fast. She is 6 years old. Can anyone recommend a commercial pattern...ie: Butterick/McCalls/Sim/NewLook that they have used?


Author:
Thank you
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 24, 08:37:56am


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Subject: Looking for a dressmaker by the name of Loretta Morialla. My daughter has fallen in love with her dresses, can't seem to find anywhere even if I google. Does anyone know of a website?


Author:
Thanking you for your help
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 24, 04:50:28am


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Subject: can anyone recommend a supplier of satin bloomers in the UK?


Author:
looking for a gold pair
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 24, 04:18:39am


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Subject: I am looking for velvet in the LA Garment District. Does anyone have a source that they have found to be dependable?


Author:
:-) Thank you
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 08:57:00pm


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Subject: Dreamtime Creations


Author:
R
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 02:22:52pm

Has anyone used Dreamtime Creations for rhinestone orders? I am always leary of a new supplier, so I thought I'd get the opinions of customers. Thank you!

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Subject: Having a difficult time getting crystals to stay on velvet bodice. Any suggestions.


Author:
thx
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 09:32:25am


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Subject: Traveling to Alexandria,Va/WashingtonDC area.Is there any good fabric shops?beside G street


Author:
small DM
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 09:15:36am


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Subject: Need Sleeve/Collar/Upper Bodice Pattern


Author:
NY Dress-Bungler
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 23, 08:01:22am

I am converting a strapless gown into a solo dress, and tried to construct a mock-up to attach the rest of the upper dress, including sleeves. The closest pattern I found was for pajamas, but the sleeves are very gathered at the shoulder, and I want a smooth joining seam. Can anyone recommend a pattern I could buy at a fabric store? I am a first-time dress-bungler but determined to harvest the beautiful corset bodice of this dress. Also need to know how to stabilize the new parts, which will be velvet. I'm sorry I don't know better terminology to explain all this! I am considering buying the IrishThreads pattern, but really just need this upper part.

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Subject: I've been asked to make a "celtic neckline" on a dress - can anyone suggest what this means please?


Author:
Clueless
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 22, 10:08:47pm


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Subject: Dress FOR SALE from AUSTRALIA. For further details see email below


Author:
Cecilia Petracic-Halloran Studio
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 22, 07:52:44pm


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Subject: Shipping advice please


Author:
retired mom
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 22, 12:54:57pm

Could anyone give me advice on shipping a dress from the U.S to Canada? Is it very expensive?

Thanks!!

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Subject: Dance Bling- revisited


Author:
PMR
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 22, 08:40:59am

I posted a while ago about Dance Bling and problems I was having. Here is an update:
DanceBling refunded both payments through Paypal as I requested. For some reason Paypal has not refunded one of the payments to me. Neither Dancebling nor I have the money any longer and Paypal won't hand it back to me.
Dancebling has contacted them several times trying to work this out and has kept me updated with whatever she finds out. I just wanted to post about her efforts as an update to my previous complaint.

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Subject: I just bought a used solo dress for my daughter. It did not come with bloomers, and I cannot find any on-line that would look good with the dress. Is there a pattern any of you would recommend that I could use to make a simple pair of bloomers? Also, what fabric do you recommend?


Author:
Thank you!
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 21, 08:22:10pm


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Subject: Industail sewing machines..I have two for sale


Author:
peggie
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 20, 08:44:19pm

Hi I have two industrail sewing machines that i need to sell.They are in great condition I used one for the high lift it has and gets that skirt joined at the waist on the costumes with no problems...The other is a walking foot great for velvet and leathers etc.I would love some tips on how to sell them and what i should charge....my husband recently retired and now wants his space back lol....any suggestions will be helpfull...Thank you

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Subject: underskirt


Author:
joy
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 20, 06:33:57pm

I have a complete mental block about underskirts/tutus or what ever you want to call them .
would some kind person let me know how to construct one for grandaughter.
I have tried looking for a pattern but can't find one.
Appreciate any help

thanks joy

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Subject: Can anyone give me the name/email of a good seamstress/DM that can alter a solo costume for me in the Westchester, Putnam, NY or Danbury, CT area. Must have a commercial sewing machine or be willing to do it by hand.


Author:
Thanks so much in advance
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 08:24:05pm


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Subject: Looking for puffball dress for little girl


Author:
NY Met area
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 08:14:20pm

Looking for a cute little dress. She likes the puffball look.
Actual waist 25"
Drop Waist 27"
Skirt 11-12"
Arms 18"

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Subject: How I am missing my dressmaking outlet


Author:
powerless in the MW
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Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 02:20:48pm

have been without electric since Sunday(9/14)-am on my sister's computer,trying to catch up on electronic bill pay duties. the remnants of the hurricane made their way to our area and a couple hundred thousand in my city are still without power-am anxious to get back to my sewing machine--lesson learned-never take electricty for granted!TTFN

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Subject: What is the avarage price of team dresses in the UK?


Author:
berry76 (currious)
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 11:33:18am

I was wondering if anyone could help me. I'm a new dress maker and was wondering what is the average rate for team dresses? I might have an order and I don't want to price myself to high or to low.

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Subject: Fabric Matching Advice Needed


Author:
Dance Mom
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 11:12:57am

I just bought a used dress for my daughter and I need to order more fabric to lengthen the bodice. There is not enough extra let down in the dress. I am having a tough time finding a match. It is a green velvet. Brighter than a emerald green. Sort of Jade or Green/Blue Shade. Does anybody have any advice on a vendor that might have a large selection of velvets where I could find a close enough match. The dress was made from a big name so going back to maker is not an option. Thanks so much! I love this msg board - everybody is so helpful!

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Subject: What style of dress would you recommend for a tall senior lady


Author:
feismom
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 19, 06:59:21am

Dress will be for Worlds...Do you think that velvet is going to stay the trend? What do you think will be new in skirts?
Since fashion week is just about over seemed to be lots of draping, ruffles and soft fabrics.

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Subject: Oh No! I was checking the fashion week highlights and my mouse found it's way to the Project Runway site. I couldn't help myself from clicking on it, now I feel terrible that I peeked.


Author:
Don't look!
[Edit]

Date Posted: Thursday, September 18, 03:37:58pm


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Subject: Beginner Skirts For Sale


Author:
Jane (Happy)
[Edit]

Date Posted: Thursday, September 18, 02:44:02pm


Hi, I am the maker of Irish dance skirts for dancers beginner through prize winner! I have been involved in the Irish dance world for over ten years and love to keep up with the trends! Let me know if you want one and what you think about them! They are a great alternative to expensive costumes! They are only $50 dollars and can be shipped world wide! www.freewebs.com/danceanddazzle

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Subject: I am making my first dress and first of all let me take my hat off to you dm's - it's hard.


Author:
ideas
[Edit]

Date Posted: Thursday, September 18, 11:47:46am

I am making five panels in the front and don't know what to do for the back. Would it be look ok with more panels around the back with soft underskirt or should I have a full skirt around the back. I have made the top and it looks great so I am a little pleased with myself and encouraged to continue :)

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Subject: Hi to Lee in Darwin, Leslie in Kentucky here. We are planning costumes again and I am wondering how your different combinations turned out--the satin and chiffon skirts from India, I mean


Author:
Lost your email address. Thanks.
[Edit]

Date Posted: Thursday, September 18, 10:05:38am


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Subject: I am in need of a dress for my daughter ASAP. She has just had a growth spurt. Measurements inside:


Author:
Let me know if you have one to sell-Thanks!
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 17, 10:08:10pm

Chest: 35"
Waist: 31 1/2
Sleeve: 23"-24"
Overall length 33"

Looking for a new modern style

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Subject: Need advice on fixing fraying fabric on sides of 3 panel style at the fold due to rubbing from sleeves. Would appreciate the expertise from the DM's.


Author:
ID Mom (Thanks for your time)
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 17, 09:07:04am


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Subject: We are looking for an updated look but without a corset or any velvet. Possibly a flat front or 3 panel w/ ruffle of some type. Is any dressmaker making something along these lines? Suggestions and pictures would be helpful


Author:
rmom
[Edit]

Date Posted: Wednesday, September 17, 08:52:11am


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Subject: applique, where can i buy some ready made designs for my daughters dress, can't do this myself thanks


Author:
mum
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 04:35:41pm


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Subject: question for all smaller dms, no bashing please


Author:
another dm
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 11:00:25am

Just curious, how many of you send design sketches before the dress is made?
How do you handle it if for some reason the design isn't translating well into a dress and you need to make minor (and I do mean extremely minor) changes?

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Subject: If I were to go to NY City for a fabric splurge, what ariport should I go to? Also, where would be a good place to stay. We also want to take in shows and the excitement of NY. Where are the good bling stores?


Author:
Thanks
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 10:19:52am


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Subject: I asked this down below but I think it got lost. Has anyone used heat fix crystals on velvet? Does it work OK?


Author:
Thanks
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 10:10:32am


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Subject: UK dressmakers - Stiffener used - Help please


Author:
Newbie
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 06:40:57am

My Mum and I are making a dress for me. What type of stiffener is best to use? And how may layers? (attempting 5 panel front with "normal" back) I believe it is Vilene. What is the product code and where is the best place to buy it? I am located in Hertfordshire. Any help would be greatly appreciated :o)

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Subject: dress colours advice


Author:
mary
[Edit]

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 16, 03:53:45am

Hi all
I have an eight year old in open champion. She is pale skinned and has fair hair. We are getting ready to get her a new dress. We are thinking of the soft tutu style skirt. She has a very long body and her last dress didnt sit right on her. Colours wise we were thinking of baby pink, lime and purple but I was wondering should the purple be a dark purple or more lilac and also would baby pink suit her coluring or should we go a darker pink. It will be a velvet bodice personally I like black but tc isnt happy with that. Any advice on colours or on other possible colours that might suit. Its so hard to know. Thanks everyone.

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Subject: what is the British equivilant to E6000 glue? Thanks


Author:
Laura
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 15, 02:42:45pm


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Subject: Interesting post on the Off Topic board from a supposed dm .. http://www.voy.com/206855/


Author:
.
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 15, 02:13:51pm


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Subject: Hi all~Looking to make my son's pants and need a black 2 or 3 way stretch gabardine. Does anyone know where I can purchase it.


Author:
thanks
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 15, 11:34:50am


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Subject: Just noticed 2 very small spots on the back of dd's dress where the velvet seems worn. It should be covered by the wig-don't know what caused it. Is there anything I could put on top of spots to keep them from getting larger?


Author:
bodice is navy
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 15, 10:20:55am


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Subject: I am looking for a black lace overlay with orange/peach and black sequins in a large fern pattern scattered on the lace. I need at least 2-3 yards of this particular fabric. If anyone knows of something that might work for me I would appreciate your recommendation.


Author:
DM
[Edit]

Date Posted: Monday, September 15, 10:10:40am


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Subject: I need to get few replacement part for a dress. Seqion flowers, they are a doop turquoise blue with a little beading on them as well. Also some organza flowers with crystals. What are some good sources for this sort of thing ??


Author:
sequin seeker
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 14, 09:15:16pm


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Subject: I'm getting ready for next champ level dress to be made. I'm curious if dm prefer clients to give a lot of details on dress design/colors etc. or leave it up to them to design. I have a picture in my head and I provide pictures of dresses I like and what I like about them but I feel like I'm being a pain because I really know what I want. Just curious how you dm feel.


Author:
none
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 14, 02:55:05pm


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Subject: Just a shout out to the Aussie dressmakers


Author:
so fun to see latest/greatest work
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 14, 07:39:46am

I suppose being so far from mainland UK/NA it is out of necessity that they are willing,able and bold enough to create innovative dresses-it helps motivate newbies like myself--for those who don't know to what I refer-just visit www.swoose.net and spend some time perusing the latest albums(most recent competitions). My sincere compliments to the talented "land down-under" dressmakers!

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Subject: If I was to buy a machine just for sewing the waist together what would you all recommend? my two Husqvarnas one being an embroidery machine just dont cope very well, have been looking on ebay but dont have room for a heavy duty industrial


Author:
thanks Ina.
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 14, 05:54:20am


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Subject: Can jeans needles differ in strength from one brand to another? I couldnt get Schmetz shop was out of them and the ones I got bend and snap easily!


Author:
Thanks, Ina.
[Edit]

Date Posted: Sunday, September 14, 03:32:14am


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Subject: has anyone used the cush velvet stretch? or should I use crush velvet non stretch? If streth is used what should I use to back it with?


Author:
not sure if stretch would work
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 13, 07:06:55pm


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Subject: Is there a dressmaker in th ePhiladelphia are who might be willing to do an alteration for my client? They are buying an OTR that will need to be adjusted in the bust (plenty of seam allowance) and maybe in the hip. Thanks for your help!


Author:
MJ
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 13, 10:54:51am


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Subject: For those of you who've gone to NYC recently, what are the 2-3 "don't miss" stores. I'm going next Saturday (I know, not the best day), but I won't have much time to shop. Thanks for helping me reduce the search factor. BTW, looking for


Author:
overlays, velvets, spandex, lace
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 13, 10:48:27am


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Subject: Bodice material


Author:
1st solo
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 13, 07:56:36am

Is there a reason why people do not use dupion silk for the bodices of dresses - does it not wear well?

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Subject: It's helpless agian - making a frilly tutu with the wavy hem, have used fish wire to get the wave but its rather a big wave, any ideas on how to reduce the size of the wave. Have gathered the tulle at the top but this just seems to be making the wave bigger.


Author:
Helpless
[Edit]

Date Posted: Saturday, September 13, 07:33:59am


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Subject: Irish Threads Dress Pattern


Author:
Judy
[Edit]

Date Posted: Friday, September 12, 07:54:28pm

I am trying to make the Irish Threads Solo dress for the first time. (doing prototype now). I am having a problem getting the 'princess' seams to ease in. It seems like there is too much fabric to ease in to the center piece. Even running a gathering stitch doesn't help - it looks ripply.

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Subject: Trying to make a p