Have you come across an outfit that's just too expensive for you?  Why not give sewing a try? It might be a bit challenging, but the process can be fascinating, and even if the result isn't perfect, there's a great feeling of accomplishment in making something yourself. And if you lack inspiration, this post might be just what you're looking for! 

Take a look at the r/sewing subreddit, a place for those enjoying the art of needle and thread. It has over 1.1 million members, and the community is all about sharing photos of their amazing creations, including machine sewing, embroidery, quilting, hand sewing, and more!

While you're scrolling through, give an upvote to your favorite sewing projects. And if you have any nice compliments or feel like sharing some sewing tips, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!

#1 My Latest Project/I Made A New Outfit From Thrifted Jeans & Red Fabric

Image credits: afrykanized

#2 Gave Myself Early Onset Arthritis Making This Dress!

Image credits: Glaney070

#3 Some Of You Had Asked To See The Outcome Of The Strawberry Dress After All My Questions…. Voila!!!

Image credits: shefollowedtherabbit

Created in 2011, the subreddit “Sewing” became a treasure trove for needle and thread enthusiasts around the world. Whether it's a one-of-a-kind clothing piece or adorable toys, the subreddit is full of inspiration and excitement for anyone interested in sewing and crafts. It has grown into a supportive hub where both beginners and experienced crafters come together to exchange tips and ideas.

We were lucky enough to get in touch with Tristian Laney, a 19-year-old designer from Detroit, Michigan and Marvelous Mba, a designer and a founder of the 1622 brand, whose designs were also included in this list, to share their experiences and journey with sewing. Scroll down to read the whole interview!

#4 Made Myself Some Boots

Image credits: Big-Contribution-676

#5 I Made A Mushroom Skirt!

Image credits: Suuperrnova

#6 Made An Account So I Could Post A Sewing Project I Was Really Happy With

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Marvelous Mba shared that originally, he named his brand "Afrykanized" to blend African ankara fabric's vibrancy with modern jeans, creating a fusion that's uniquely "Afrykanized." However, he recently felt the urge to broaden his designs beyond just African prints. “I didn't want anyone to feel excluded just because of the name. So, after some deep thought, I settled on ‘1622’ as the new brand name. It's a special tribute to my two kids, whose birth years are 2016 and 2022. They've been such an inspiration in my life, and this new name reflects that growth and inclusivity.”

#7 Made This Wool Knit Set… Plus A Matching Sweater For My Pup!

Image credits: Notta_Basic_Stitch

#8 Wwii Era Coat - Vintage Sewing Pattern Company, Clara Cape Coat

Image credits: star_faerie_

#9 I Made My Own Wedding Dress And Veil!

Image credits: No-Efficiency68

Tristian Laney is attending Michigan State University for Apparel Design and Theatre Costuming. He has spent his entire life sewing and has created a niche in the fashion and theatre scene for out-of-the-box designs with exaggerated silhouettes and experimental textiles. The designer shared that he got started with sewing because of his mother. “As far back as I can remember, there was a sewing machine in our basement. She started teaching me with small hand sewing projects and it has snowballed from there. Beginning with pillowcases and stuffed animals to now, couture gowns and 60 costume theater productions.”

Laney is also a founder of the “Overgrown Apparel” brand. He shared that the journey of the brand started in 2019 as a mix of vintage and upcycled clothes. The designer would take thrifted materials and update them with different fabrics and designs to make one-of-a-kind pieces. “As I entered college, I began to realize there was a much larger market for the style of clothing I was interested in creating than I originally thought. This led me to take a turn with my brand. The meaning behind the name ‘Overgrown Apparel’ is twofold: first, I wanted to evoke the feeling of nature and wild freedom. Sustainability is a huge aspect of my work and with it, the freedom to dress how you want to, regardless of the situation. This lends itself to my second meaning, I want to take the societal expectations of avant-garde clothing and outgrow that box even more. I now use the brand to sell the designs I make myself with a focus on fun and unique one-of-a-kind pieces.”

#10 Made A Dress And Matching Bag For An Award Event And I Am So Proud

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#11 It Has Pockets!! (Work In Progres)

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#12 I Made My Prom Dress This Year

Image credits: Suuperrnova

Just like Laney, Marvelous Mba uses vintage clothes to create unique pieces. Originally from Nigeria, Marvelous Mba's sewing journey began just two years ago in Poland. Remarkably, he acquired all his sewing skills through online YouTube tutorials, an avenue that opened up a world of discovery and learning for him. “I'm still honing my sewing skills. But the thrill of creating something unique and one-of-a-kind has kept me going,” the designer shared.

We were wondering what inspired Marvelous Mba to create clothes from used jeans found in thrift stores. The designer replied that it’s the thrift store treasure hunt. “It all began when I decided to customize my jean jacket. After that, I couldn't resist the urge to design and sew more pieces. To make it more budget-friendly and eco-conscious, I started exploring thrift stores for used jeans. It's not only great for the environment, but you can find some real gems there too!

As for inspiration, I love staying up to date with fashion trends. The beauty of working with thrifted jeans is that it challenges me to think on my feet and adjust my designs based on what I have. So, there's a certain spontaneity to it. I don't usually sketch my outfits beforehand; I have a mental picture of how I want it to turn out, and as I'm sewing, I make those creative decisions on the fly. It's so much fun!”

#13 My Newest Make! Sewed And Modified From Two Thrifted Pillowcases

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#14 Easy, Cheap Extension Table We Made For My Machine. (Got Idea Off Pinterest)

Image credits: Teabrat

#15 Floor Length Bustier Dress

Image credits: getoutofmypoolhouse

Looking at all the designs Tristan Laney created, we got curious about how he comes up with design ideas. The artist shared that a lot of the designs he creates are inspired by media he’s consumed in his life. “This includes music, movies, TV, and books. Bands like Tally Hall and MIKA and shows like The Muppets have provided me with endless fuel for my creative brain to run wild.

My design process usually begins with a spark from one of these sources. I may be inspired by a scene or texture in a film or even a perfectly blended harmony. From there, I begin my sketching process, creating multiple designs with the ideas in mind. After that, I start searching for textiles to draw from to make my final garment.”

#16 1780s Corset Stays Handmade

Image credits: Cacarosa

#17 Just Started Sewing And Now I Have A List Of People Who Want A Bag From Me

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#18 Here's A Little Constellation Bat I Just Made ?✨

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“Some of the things I enjoy most about the art of sewing include the ability to let the world fall away as I create. I’m allowed to forget about personal and external hardships and let my energy flow into what I’m creating. Seeing something I’ve taken from an idea to a physical piece can still shock me sometimes as well but my favorite part about sewing is seeing the look on the face of my client when they try on an item they truly fell in love with. Whether that’s an actor putting on a costume that lets them fall into their role or a model spinning around to let a dress fan out, the joy that fashion can bring is what I always work toward,” Laney shared what he enjoys the most about the art of sewing.

For Marvelous Mba, sewing is pure joy. “I absolutely love the creative process from start to finish. Coming up with fresh ideas, designing a unique outfit, and watching it come alive under the sewing machine – it's a feeling like no other! And you know what's even more exciting? The fact that I'm still learning as I go. So, sometimes, I surprise myself with what I can create. Accessorizing the final outfit is like adding the cherry on top! The whole experience is just so fulfilling and keeps me motivated to keep learning and growing.”

#19 I Made My Dog And Myself Matching Coats For My Irl Cake Day

Image credits: CorvidiaPex

#20 Self Drafted Dress From Thrifted Fabric

Image credits: LifeAndMotherSky

#21 I Recreated Christina Aguilera's Zigman Costume For Her 2022 La Pride Performance!

Image credits: lifewickedfast

After being asked if there are any outfits that stand out as personal favorites for Laney, the designer replied that he loves all of his pieces equally, but of course, he does have his favorites. “My tin can dress is probably my favorite of recent. The hours spent working on it have bonded me to it in a way that’s different from other pieces I’ve worked on. Other favorites of mine include the Ugg corset, the Angel tapestry skirt, and the costumes I design for Alice in Wonderland.”

#22 I Made Jeans And Put My Sewing Machine On The Back Pocket

Image credits: kirstendraws

#23 My Second Project: Pizza Shirt! Still Hooked

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#24 Tried Drafting A Bell Sleeve Wrap Top - And Made It Reversible

Image credits: Infamous-Cat-8370

1622 clothes feature a wonderful blend of artistry and sustainability. “In today's world, eco-conscious fashion and upcycling play a vital role in tackling the pressing environmental and social issues that plague the fashion industry,” Marvelous Mba shared. “These movements are not just trends; they're a necessary response. Think about it: every time we purchase a piece of clothing, we are indirectly contributing to resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation. Eco-conscious fashion steps in to break this cycle of environmental damage. But it's not just about the production process; it's also about raising awareness among consumers. When people are informed about the consequences of their clothing choices, they can make more responsible decisions. This shift in consumer behavior is essential to driving the fashion industry towards a more sustainable and ethical path.

Upcycling, on the other hand, is a beautiful way of giving new life to discarded materials. Instead of adding waste, creative designers can turn old garments or fabrics into something fresh and exciting. It's like a dance of creativity, where the designer repurposes and reimagines, bringing new stories and experiences to life through each upcycled piece.

Together, eco-conscious fashion and upcycling offer a pathway towards a fashion industry that is not only environmentally friendly but also socially just. These movements are not just about clothing; they symbolize our collective effort to protect the planet and care for one another. As we embrace eco-conscious fashion and upcycling, we take a step closer to a future where style and conscience go hand in hand. Together, we can make a lasting positive impact on the world, one eco-friendly garment at a time.”

#25 My Handmade Belle Gown. Detailed Description In The Comments

Image credits: AnneluneCos

#26 I Made An Early 1900s Ballgown Inspired By John Singer Sargent Paintings (Self Drafted)

Image credits: sewing_magic

#27 A Seagull I Made!!!

Image credits: Fit_Bike_9219

For some last words, we asked Laney if he has any advice or tips for beginners who are interested in sewing and design. “The biggest advice I like to give to people who are just starting out with sewing is to let go of the fear of mistakes and just do it,” Laney replied. “You will make mistakes and continue to mess up but that should never stop you from doing something you want to do. Your ideas might not work, but what if they do? There’s no one watching over your shoulder waiting for you to mess up, so try to let go of the fear of judgment.”

Find unique and eco-friendly fashion at Overgrown Apparel and 1622. They offer one-of-a-kind pieces that are creative and sustainable.

Check out Laney's portfolio, and follow him on Instagram and TikTok for updates. For Marvelous Mba's 1622 designs, visit his Instagram and TikTok pages. Explore the world of fashion and creativity with them!

#28 My Whallet!

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#29 Numberblocks 1-10 For My Daughter's School

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#30 Iridescent Cat Jacket

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#31 I Present: Mushroom Hat

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#32 Made Myself This Coat To Represent My Lineage And My Pride

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#33 Prom Dress Is Finally Finished

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#34 1960's "Space Age" Inspired Dress. All Fabrics From Stash, I Used Vogue 1822

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#35 I Am So Pleased With How This Little Guy Turned Out!

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#36 Honest Opinion: Is This Cute Or A Weird Abomination? Mistakes Were Made With Seam Allowances

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#37 I Found A Pattern I Like For Trapper Hats So I Guess I'll Make 100 Trapper Hats

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#38 "Blood And Wine" Birthday Gift For My Best Friend

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#39 Sewed My Graduation Dress!

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#40 Prom Gown

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#41 I Made A Corset Style Top With Cat Tapestry!

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#42 My Valentine's Dress ♥️

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#43 A Flannel Bear (Hippo?) Cushion One-Night-Make

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#44 First Skirt I Made A While Ago (Handsewn, From A Tablecloth)

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#45 My First Project. I'm So Proud

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#46 Lazy Sunday Mornings Call For Lazy Mushroom Pants! ??

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#47 Bridesmaid Lehenga For An Indian Wedding

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#48 Fashion Construction Competition So Happy I Finally Finished!

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#49 I Made An Edwardian Holiday Outfit. 1901

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#50 1760 Stays Finished!

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#51 My First Sewing Project. Everything Went Wrong And Now It Looks Like A Baby Kangaroo

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#52 Finished Cloaks For My Neices

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#53 "I Would Drape Myself In Velvet If It Were Socially Acceptable"

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#54 My Birthday Dress! Evening Gown With Fake Black Roses And Golden Chains!

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#55 I Made A Two Piece Set For My Textiles Major Work

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#56 I Should Have Posted This Long Time Ago But Here:

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#57 Vest And Pants I Made For Prom

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#58 I Was Getting Supplies For A Practical Project…but Then I Saw This Fabric ✨

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#59 Did I Put Maybe Too Much Work Into What Should Be A Simple Gnome Hat? Yes, Yes I Did

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#60 I Made This Dress Out Of A Thrifted Curtain Panel. It's Not Very Practical But I Love It!

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#61 Styling A Shirt And Pair Of Jeans I Made

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#62 A Satin Dress I Made For A Gala. (More Info In Comments)

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#63 A Barbie Dress For The Premiere!

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#64 Had A Big Day, Made A Dress To Conquer It

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#65 Finally Finished Wool Coat - Just In Time For Summer

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#66 First Sewing Project Of 2023 #bubbledress

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#67 A Different Kind Of Thrift-Flip: I Reupholstered My Couch And It's A Major Upgrade

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#68 Made A Dress For My Daughter! (Self-Drafted)

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#69 Goretex Walking Jacket

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#70 Made My Bridesmaids’ Dresses!

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#71 This Dress Was My Odyssey

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#72 Self Drafted Bustier Dress

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#73 I Made This Hoodie From A Thrifted Blanket And Some Fabric Scraps

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#74 It's Finally Done ?, Double Breasted Pvc Coat

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#75 Rate My Pattern Matching

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#76 Made This Dress With Alexander Henry Fabric. Now To Find The Perfect Event To Wear It To

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#77 Super Proud Of This Pattern Matching I Did Along The Armholes And Shoulder Seams Of This Bodysuit!

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#78 First Dress I Fully Made!

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#79 Drag Look I Made Using Fabric I Illustrated! I Love Big Dramatic False Eyelashes

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#80 Went To A Lizzo Concert With My Sister. I Made Both Our Outfits

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#81 Blue And Iridescent Jumpsuit

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#82 Couldn’t Afford A Zara Over Shirt So I Made One!

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#83 A 1950s House Coat! (Made From A Vintage Pattern)

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#84 I Made A Quilted Dinosaur Vest For Myself, A 43 Year Old. ? Is It Cool!?

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#85 First Project Finally Done! Wrinkly Because I Just Got Up

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#86 I Made An Artist Bag For My Niece Her Birthday

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#87 I Made Sophie Hatter’s Dress From Howl’s Moving Castle. (More In Comments)

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#88 First Dress Made With The Help Of My Wonderful Mimi (Grandma)! It’s A Vintage 60s Pattern!

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#89 In Progress, But Coming Along!

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#90 I Made The Open Studio Patterns Shop Pant

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#91 Impulsively Made A Dress For Vacay

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#92 Made This Sweatshirt Ages Ago - Knew I Hoarded The Scraps For A Reason! [butterick B5585]

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#93 It’s Not Anything Special, But Here’s A Project I Finished Yesterday ?

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#94 I Made A Wool Coat !!

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#95 Matching Bustier And Bucket Hat Set From Thrifted Fabric

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#96 Made Her Some Dino Nuggets With Squeakers Inside

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#97 Maternity Clothes, But Make It Fun!

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#98 I’ve Gotten Kinda Addicted To Making These Bird Ornaments

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#99 I Made A Boston Subway Seat Matching Set

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#100 Going Back To The Office And Needed To Upgrade My Wardrobe To "Professional"

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#101 My Second Bespoke Jacket I Made While In Class- Here Are Some Progress Pictures!

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#102 Self Drafted Dog Wedding Dress Made Out Of Bits Of A Dress I Decided Not To Wear

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#103 Finished My 100% Wool 16th Century Style Gown Just In Time For This Gorgeous Snowpocalypse

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#104 I Made A Dress From A Thrifted Bedsheet!

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#105 A Tilly And The Buttons Lyra Dress. This Might Well Be My New Favourite Make

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#106 My First Pair Of Jeans! Made From All Thrifted Materials

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#107 Made My First Shirt!

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#108 Made The High Waisted Jeans Of My Dreams And They're Extremely Comfortable

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#109 My Costume For An Abc Party (Anything But Clothes)

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#110 I Made Fig A Fleece Lined Hi-Vis Raincoat While Snowed In Today!

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#111 Update I Chose The Teal Snaps

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#112 Finished The Quilted Corset Top To Match The Quilt Skirt I Posted Last Month!

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#113 Worm On A String Fringe Jacket

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#114 Made Some Quilted Pyjama Pants

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#115 Made Some Glamouralls To Ring In The New Year

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#116 Self-Drafted Dress For My Husband To Wear To The Medieval Fayre!

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#117 Just Finished A Velvet Dress For A Winter Party!

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#118 Self Drafted Dress And Slip For My Birthday

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#119 Thrift Flip: Saw The Potential In This Sparkly 2-Piece Set!

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#120 Prime Pigeon Print (I Made A Button Up)

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#121 Made A Dress Out Of Lawn Chair Webbing

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#122 A Teuta Matoshi Inspired Dress That I Made

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#123 Fo: Comfiest Dress Ever, From Pattern-Matching Hell!

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#124 My Triplets Turn 4 On Tuesday So I Made Them A Birthday Crown With Their First Letter Embroidered

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#125 Made A Dress For My Honeymoon Out Of A Sheet Set :)

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#126 Our 8 Year Old Just Started With The Brother She Got For Christmas. She Made Us “Airpod Pillows”

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#127 First Garment I’ve Made!

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#128 My Girlfriend Made Me This Awesome T Shirt!

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#129 Sewed My First Pants ! Can't Move In Them Though

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#130 Today I Figured Out A Trick For Cutting Out Pdf Patterns- Cut Zigzags To See The Margin Lines!

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#131 My First Attempt At Making Something A Little Bold/Edgy

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#132 Had To Take A Moment To Admire This Side Seam On The Dress I Am Working On

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#133 I Sewed Jeans And I'm So Pleased With How They Turned Out!

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#134 Finished This Dress With Minutes To Spare!

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#135 Made A Fidget Quilt For My Fianceé! She Has Autism And Loves Fidgeting With Things :)

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#136 Sirocco Jumpsuit--Looks Fancy, Feels Like Pjs!

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#137 Scrap Buster! Little Flag For My Office

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#138 My Caribbean Carnival Poison Ivy

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#139 2 Versions Of A Dress I Made From An Etsy Pattern

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#140 Whipped Two Outfits Up In Time For My Christmas Work Event

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#141 “Can You Make Me A Flannel Evening Gown?” Yes I Can! Details In Comments

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#142 Dip Dye Ombre Circle Skirt

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#143 Today I Had A Go At The Adrienne Blouse By Friday Pattern Company. Success!

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#144 A Set I Made My Son For Ballet Class And Rehearsals

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#145 Jacket I Recently Finished

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#146 I’ve Always Wanted A Carhartt Work Vest So I Made My Own

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#147 The Perfect Holiday Dress: Stretchy, Velvety, And Plenty Of Room For When I Inevitably Eat Too Much

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#148 You Said "Do It, It Will Be Pretty", And So It Is... Behold The Skull Dress!

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#149 It Was Hot In Australia So Ugly Christmas Sweater Shirt Was The Best I Could Manage

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#150 Recycled Tablecloth Dress!

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#151 My Finished Tea House Dress! Now I Have To Wait Till It's Warm Enough To Wear It

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#152 New Bustier Pattern: Tested ✓

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#153 First Ever Denim Jacket

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#154 Nearly Gave Up On This Dress But Glad I Powered Through!

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#155 Too Excited Not To Share My Project