When someone asks me ‘where did you get your dress from?’ ,  to reply ‘ i made it’  is honestly just the best feeling! People always act amazed, to which i act all modest – ” ahh it was nothing… just something i whipped together in 10 minutes.”

 And i’m not lying, slightly exaggerating on the time scale perhaps, but not lying.         

To make a simple shift dress or a basic skirt is so much easier than it looks. To be honest, i think it’s pretty much down to the  fabric you choose. and also how you accessorise. In my next post I’ll supply you with contacts to the cheapest fabric shops around, because lets face it, fabric shopping is pretty much the best bit!

Hand sewing is great. That is if you’ve got all the time in the world and alot of patience - I have neither. Using the trusty sewing machine is without a doubt the best method. I honestly dont think i could manage without my darling machine and keep it threaded at all times (an invaluable tip there)  

Sewing machines are much cheaper than people realise -

I have so many buttons and dials on my machine and if im honest, I only ever use one or two stitches, so if its all new to you, then you only need a beginners machine with one stitch (the loyal running stitch) This is seriously all you  need. And becasue they can be cheap, you might as well buy brand new. I know I keep harping on about ebay but you do get some amazing bargains on there. I had a look this morning and found 3 straight away for under £10. Thats cheaper than a bottle of wine!

I have  completely fallen in love with this little portable machine for £12.99. It does one stitch (you dont need anything else) and is irresistable!

Second hand machines are nice and cheap but do make sure they have been serviced before you buy. The average servicing price is around £30…. pricey!!

If you want to spend a little more then feel free to shop around. You can get a pretty decent machine from £40 upwards. Including this little beauty from john lewis (see  below). If you are going to spend more, then I  recommend you go into specialist shops. Just to give yourself the opportunity to have a play and be sure you get the right model for you.

And away we go…..