Can you help me?

Question

Hi everyone! I'm thinking about making my own prom dress this year and I need some help. I have some questions:

*What is the best kind of sewing machine for a beginner? Where can I get one for less than $50?
*Where can I get plus size formal dress patterns?
*How should I start tackling this project?
*Do you have any advice for me?

I have some sewing experience, but I have never owned a sewing machine. I have not done anything this big before, either. Please help me!

Answer 1

Any kind of sewing machine, as long as it works, of course, will do the job. I'm an excellent seamstress, and sewed exclusively on an old Singer straight stitch for years, making all my clothes and clothes - as presents! - for others. So, if you want to, you can do it.

Craig's list is a good idea to try and find an inexpensive machine. Also, go the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Habitat's Restore, & garage sales.

You can find any size/style pattern at any place that sells patterns - from WalMart to fabric stores. Also, look for patterns [just in case] when you're in the thrift stores.

Start by doing what you're doing right now: asking questions & investigating. Go look at patterns to get ideas and inspiration to motivate you further. Look at fabric, also, that inspires you to make a fabulous dress. While you're deciding on style and fabric choice, keep up your search for a machine. And also think about who can help you with "fitting": someone who will help pin and baste [if necessary] while you have the unfinished dress on.

You can do it. You've got to start somewhere ~ what's wrong with starting now? You'll have FuN!

P.S. An expert a sewer as I am, I don't think I've ever made anything that I didn't have to rip out at least one seam and redo it. Don't get discouraged.

Answer 2

Consider this alternative:
Here's one of several outlets which offer really nice formal wear for under $100. And, you will definitely spend that much or more on a machine, pattern, and material.

http://www.formalwear-outlet.com/d659.html
This is a lovely dress, and only $70. For other choices, use the categories to the left.

Sewing has many many subtleties. And, even if you sew it,
the fit can be tricky. If you insist on sewing it, try to borrow a machine. And, maybe trade babysitting for a seamstress to help.

And, keep it simple. It's your big night. And, you want to feel really good in your dress!
Have a great Prom.

Answer 3

Even with shipping one can find a working sewing machine on Ebay--but if you have tag sales in your area, I'd start there...or on Craigslist.com, you may be near an area that is served by Craigslist.
It is a FREE subsidiary arm of Ebay, Inc, and is an online free classified newspaper.
They have a FREE section, and you can even use the WANTED section to write a little blog about why you want one, and why you need it to be really cheap or free and Working....and someone may soften their heart and give you one!
You might even inquire if anyone could give you little mentoring
in the sewing department--some one's granny at home may be willing, or some retired home economics teacher!~
I would if you were near me!
Bless your heart...and Joann Fabrics in the USA is a great pattern shop, as is Walmart! Often they go on sale for 1/2 price and they have really easy easy patterns these days!!
Good Luck, my dear!

Answer 4

Also check if there is a Freecycle group in your area (opt in Group on Yahoo). And go to Joann's and sign up to get their sale sheet, which has great deals on the patterns every so often. Used be that they'd have certain brands of patterns on sale for $1 each instead of the regular $7-10. And they have different sizes of patterns, so plus sizes are not a problem. And one bit of advise is something a friend of my mom's told her, that when you are sewing a zipper in a garment, use scotch tape to tape it into place then sew and remove tape. Also, there are great fabrics that are washable rather than dry clean only.

Answer 5

Wow....what a project!
First off, try going to a pawn shop for a machine at that price.
And you might check either Wal Mart or a fabric shop for your pattern.
I would tackle it plenty of time before your prom. You don't want to be working on it the day of the prom. Do you have any family or friends that could help you?
I admire you for trying such a feat.....and wish you all the luck in the world.

Answer 6

Ok, kiddo! 100% for high goals! You know you have an aunt, uncle, or neighbor that knows how to sew. Don't tackle all of it alone. You need enjoy the event and the time leading to it. Ask for help, and you will be a lot happier.

Answer 7

First place to look is Goodwill or a second hand shop. Hopefully it will have the instruction boo . Just read and practice what it says. Hey even I can do it and I'm a guy..