This silk slip was made with some swearing. In theory it was very easy. 2 side seams and some straps. I used a silk slip I already had as a pattern to copy. I laid it out on the bias, cut, and sewed. Done. But, it was too big and taking it in didn't go as planned and then it was shorter than I intended, so a wide bias strip was added to the hem—which worked great but ended up using more yardage than I wanted. I had bought extra to use in other projects. Aside from all that, the slip is lovely, feels incredible, and was a nice project. I did confirm my theory of bias cutting + slippery fabric that is also expensive = stressful sweating and unnecessary yelling at my children who seem to only be interested in helping when I use the most expensive fabric.
Some notes:
- I did switch to an extra fine sewing machine needle for this and that was a wise decision. If I am ever too lazy to switch sewing machine needles, kick me.
- I finished the edges with the serger and added stretch lace on the neck and arm edges. I used lingerie elastic for the straps because the stretch lace is too stretchy. If I had no serger (can't image this) I'd use French seams for finishing and swear my way around the rest.
- I used the rolled hem on the serger to finish the bottom edge and this made my life so good. I would not try to do a rolled hem on the bias in silk. No way, man. Not for a million bucks. (You could also finish the hem with an overlock stitch and then stitch lace on the edge if you don't have a serger.)
- This wasn't the cheapest project, but was still less than the $49 some mall store that shall remain nameless was charging for their silk slips that were shorter. This project was also much less expensive $150-200 I've seen for similar slips at some high-end boutiques both in person and online. Silk makes all the difference here, satin was just not doing it for me.
- Although I didn't use a pattern, I think I should have. It somehow grew too big without one. Not sure why, but it did. I'm sort of crying right now looking at all these vintage lingerie sewing patterns.
More silk sewing to report on soon. And speaking of old-timey loveliness and crying, I'm in a tizzy about this line of vintage reproduction luggage. You know, for that 1928 world cruise I plan on taking (after I get my time machine working again.)
