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sarah norwood

The Cora Elastic Strap Garter Belt

Lingerie, Sewing Patterns January 11, 2017

When I spoke to Rachel from Maker Style a while back, we talked breifly about how our styles have changed over the years. I definitely would say I’ve developed a more modern, minimalist aesthetic.  When I first started designing, my focus was on making things as elaborate, complicated and filly as possible. Over the last couple of years, I’ve come to learn I feel most comfortable in the most simple things. Simple lace undies, comfortable cotton bras (but in fantastic prints), staple black leggings, staple oversized top.

So, I really like this garter belt. The Cora tutorial does not come with any pattern pieces, but measurements and instructions on how to make a variety of elastic strap garter belts. You can make these in a variety of widths of elastic, which will slightly change the overall look, but I’d recommend not using anything less than 1/2″.

 

I’ve actually released this in two versions. There is a full tutorial for $2.99 that will walk you through all of the styles. Then, I have a FREE version that will walk you through how to sew the Lace-V style.

Out of all 5 styles, I think the single strap version might just be my favourite!

Valentine’s Sew Along: Preparing the Patterns

Tutorial, Valentine's Day Sew Along January 11, 2017

If you’ve ordered your supplies online and have to wait for them to arrive, now is a good time to print & assemble your patterns.

As a reminder, you’ll need the following patterns if you want to make a similar set:

  1. The Jasmine Bra
  2. The Claudia Panties
  3. Either the Mina or Cora Garter Belt Pattern (just a reminder that I have a FREE version of the Cora Tutorial in my shop right now).

You can buy these patterns individually, or as a complete Bundle. Just a reminder, they are also available on Etsy, if you prefer to shop there.

Print your patterns making sure that you have selected “no scaling” in your printer options. Measure the 1″x1″ square to make sure it has printed correctly.

I think I picked this tip up from Marie at A Stitching Odyssey, but a quick and easy way to trim the margins is to use a paper cutter. I can’t believe I didn’t think of this sooner… it has saved me so much time, and you can cut multiple pieces at once! My patterns come with a little scissor indicator showing you which margins to trim.

Once the appropriate margins are cut, you can tape your pages together, using the alpha-numeric indicators as a guide.

Cut out your pattern pieces in the size that closest corresponds to your body measurements. If you’re not sure how to measure, this infographic might help you out.

I highly, highly, highly recommend you sew your patterns up using some inexpensive test fabric first. You can even just use regular old knitted elastic on your mock-up, and jersey in place of the lace on the back of the panties. You’ll just want to see how the patterns fit your body.

The Jasmine Bra

If you are larger than a D-DD cup, you’re likely going to want to make some minor pattern alterations. My bust size has varied a lot over the last 3 years. I’ve had two pregnancies, one baby, gained 30 lbs, lost 40 lbs, started running, and started weight training. I’ve gone from a 30FF to a 30G during my pregnancy, and now I have no idea what my actual cup size is, but I know it’s somewhere below an F because none of my RTW bras fit anymore.

I’m going to show you what I do for my measurements.

I currently have a 36″ bust, and a 29″ band measurement. I cut out a size small. I draw in a slash line at the appropriate apex of the bust extending to the side seam, and the centre front seam. The apex is the “highest” point of the bust.

I cut along that line towards the Centre Front and Side seams.

From there, I open up the slash by about 1/2″, and retrace my pattern piece. I find this is all I need to get a great fit. You may want to add more or less. You may also want to add some depth to the curve if your bust projects a lot. This is why it’s really important to test out a bra pattern first. Breasts come in so many shapes and sizes, and they change constantly with the changes in our life, so what worked for you last year, might not work today.

Alternately, if you generally wear closer to an AA-A cup, you might need to straighten out the curved seams of the cup. This is super easy to do. You may want to also shorten the cup just a tad.

All of that being said, please don’t let this scare you off. This pattern is so forgiving. I recommend it for anyone who is just starting to get into lingerie making because the fit is generally quite easy to get!

The Claudia Panties

The front of the Claudia Panties is all one piece. I really love this pattern because it is so flattering and comfortable. But, I wanted to be able to add some sequin fabric to it, without the sequins scratching! I didn’t want the sequins to run as far as the gusset, because sequins between the legs doesn’t sound like a good time to me… so, I’m adding a horizontal seam to the Panties Front.

Here’s how I did that:

1.Place your Gusset Lining pattern piece overtop of the Panties Front and draw a line where the straight edge of the Gusset Lining falls on the Panties Front.

2. Cut the pattern along that line and trace them onto a separate piece of paper. Add 1/2″ seam allowance on either side of your cut line.

3. Add 1/2″ seam allowance along the straight edge of the Gusset Lining. I’m going to show you how to sew these so that all of the seam allowances are fully encased, so there are no scratchy bits!

Now that we’ve made the pattern alterations, store your pattern pieces away until your fabric arrives! I store my patterns in plastic sleeves in a binder.

If you’re fabric is already here (lucky), You can go ahead and cut out your pieces for your Jasmine Bra as indicated in the pattern instructions. I’ll show you how to cut the band in a later post.

YouTube Update

updates January 11, 2017

I’ve updated my badly neglected YouTube Channel! Did you even know I have a YouTube Channel ?

Video is a medium I am not so familiar with, but I’ve been learning fast and really enjoying it! So please subscribe to my channel. I plan on adding a lot of new videos over the coming months. If there is anything specific you’d like to see, please let me know!

Old vs. New

Design Diary, Lingerie January 10, 2017

Do you ever re-visit fabrics?

I bought this doe printed french terry before Isabel was born (I remember this because I made her a newborn dress out of it!), and really fell in love with it. I loved it so much, I ordered several more yards.

Two years ago, I released a lingerie set using the Doe Fabric. I paired it with champagne scalloped lace and did my classic hipster and longline bralette.

I was going through my fabric stash a couple of months ago and re-discovered it. I decided it was time for a revamp.

This time I paired it with simple beige mesh on the bottom and a small lace applique on the top. I think I prefer this new incarnation of the ‘Doe’ Set.

I like reinventing old styles. I find it to be a fun design challenge. I often draw so much of my inspiration from the fabrics themselves, that I like to find interesting ways to coordinate or display a print or colour.

The Doe Bra and Panties are available individually or as a set in my Etsy Shop.

The Mina Garter Belt

Lingerie, Sewing Patterns January 10, 2017

I’ve had bad luck with ready-made garter belts in the past. It seems to me their are either cheesy, 80’s versions that don’t really hold our stockings up, or they are overly structured, verging on corset-wear.  I wanted to create something that was simple, modern, and versatile.

Introducing the Mina Garter Belt!

The Mina is a simple 4-strap garter belt. It is quick to put together, with only 2 short seams. The pattern walks you through two waist finishes, as well as how to sew and attach garter straps.

I’m also going to be releasing this item Made-to-Order very soon, so keep an eye on my Lingerie Shop if you are keen to have me make one for you.

I just love the simplicity of this garter belt. I’ve made several out of a variety of laces. The simple cut really lets the fabric stand out, which is a design feature I’m really digging these days…

You can purchase the Mina Sewing Pattern HERE or through my Etsy Shop.

 

Valentine’s Sew Along: Gathering Supplies

Lingerie, Sewing Patterns, Tutorial, Valentine's Day Sew Along January 9, 2017

Lingerie-making requires some specialty supplies. If you’ve ever wondered why lingerie is so expensive to buy, it’s because there are a lot of bits and pieces that go into a single piece of lingerie! All of those pieces, as well as the labour involved add up!

Because I also sell made-to-order lingerie, I generally don’t give out the exact names of my suppliers. I like to keep some things a little private. However, I’ve purchased from nearly every big supplier online! So I’m happy to share some of my favourites with you.

As I mentioned earlier, this sew along is going to move along quite quickly. I know that many of you will need to order supplies, which can take some time. I’m hoping that you’ll be able to catch up once you receive everything you need.

Fabric

You’ll need to select a stretch scalloped lace fabric. I’m recommend looking for something at least 18cm (7″) wide. Buy the required amount as indicated in the patterns, plus an extra yard or so for the elongated band.

You will also need some sort of lining for your bra and or the front sequin panel of your panties. I like to use a simple stretch mesh. You can purchase it in a skin-tone shade for a nude look, a contrast shade to help your lace pop, or go tone on tone.

We’ll be adding a sequin panel to the front of the panties, so you’ll need to pick up some sequin fabric (or specialty fabric of your choice). This doesn’t necessarily have to be a stretch fabric. As long as it’s not too heavy, almost any specialty fabric will do.  My local Fabricland and Lens Mills stores both cary sequin fabrics, but if you need to source online, fabric.com is a great resource. If you’re looking to source locally, try browsing second-hand and vintage shops for old formal dresses.

The last bit of fabric we will need is a small piece of cotton jersey to line the gusset. Any cotton jersey will do, even an old t-shirt!

Elastics

We’re going to need a variety of elastics to complete this set.

Strap Elastic – this is the elastic we will use to make our bra straps and the Cora version of the garter belt. I used 1/2″ elastic for my straps and 5/8″ for my garter belt. I actually also used 1/2″ strap elastic on the waistband of the Mina version of my garter belt. Which ever size you choose is up to you and your personal preference.

Neckline Elastic – this elastic will run along the inside of the bra, so pick something soft. I just use a regular 3/8″ wide knit elastic.  I like to make sure this elastic feel soft and is not scratchy, since it will lay against the skin.

Band Elastic – this elastic will go along the underbust seam of the bra, and can be also used on the waist edge of the Mina garter belt. Band elastic comes with one plush side – this is the side that lays against the skin. It also usually has a decorative edge running along one side. I’m going to be adding a 3/4″ band elastic to my bra, but 1/2″ tends to be the standard.

Waistline Elastic – I’m using fold over elastic. It works best with the sequin fabric we will be using, since it will bind that potentially scratchy edge.

Other Findings

We’re going to need some basic hardware to complete our set.

First, we’ll need bra strap sliders and rings. I’ve used two rings, and a total of 7 sliders between my bra and garter belt. Buy rings and sliders in the same width that you purchased your strap elastic.

Because we are adding longline band, we’re going to have to use hook and eye tape instead of a traditional hook and eye closure. You can get hook and eye tape with a single, or triple column of hooks. I’d recommend going with the triple column.

The Cora version of the garter belt closes with a simple G-hook, while the Mina Version closes with a hook and eye closure.

We also are going to need 4 garter clips. Buy these in the same size that you purchase your strap elastic.

Misc. Supplies

Make sure you have ball-point needles on hand for your sewing machine. These are ideal for sewing stretch fabrics.  We will also be using a twin needle. Of course, buy some thread to match and make sure you have a pair of good, sharp scissors.

Of course, we are also going to need patterns. I’m using the Jasmine Bra, Claudia Panties, and I’m making two garter belts: the Cora and the Mina. I’ve created pattern bundles which you can purchase directly here, or through my Etsy Shop. Remember to use coupon code BeMine to receive 15% off until January 16, 2016.

I think that just about covers everything! I know that this is a lot of stuff, so I’ve made a printable checklist for you. I’ve made it as generic as possible so hopefully you can use it for other lingerie-sewing projects in the future!

Download the list here:

Lingerie Supplies Checklist

Where to Buy Lingerie Making Supplies

Now you’ve got your list, you need to actually find the stuff. Here are a list of shops I recommend.

Tailor Made Shop  (USA)

Blackbird Fabrics (Canada)

Bra Makers Supply (Canada)

Sew Sassy (USA)

Lace Heaven (USA)

Sewing Chest (UK)

Vena Cava (UK)

 

I hope you find this to be a helpful resource! I’m really excited to get started but will wait a few days for everyone to organize their supplies. If you have any questions, I will do my best to answer them here. If you want to share your makes and progress on social media, use the hashtag #ValentinesSewAlong and/or #SewingWithOhhhLulu .

 

Maker Style Interview and Mental Health Update

Anxiety, Interviews, Sewing Patterns January 9, 2017

Any other podcast addicts out there?

I was really excited when I heard from Rachel at Maker Style a few weeks ago. Her podcast was new to me, but sounded right up my alley. I am absolutely honoured to be the first interview for her Bra Making Month. If you are into sewing, and particularly lingerie making, this series is going to be a must-listen.

You can listen to my interview HERE.

After doing my interview with Rachel those few weeks back, I realized how much my anxiety has improved. I feel like I’ve got a brand new start, but at the same time have this nagging sense of regret about the things I’ve missed out on because of my anxiety. I was able to speak to Rachel openly, and when we went our separate ways, I didn’t analyze every word I had said, second guessing my wording or phrasing and content. I can’t express to you how good this feels.

I’m still struggling with things – particularly fears about Isabel’s well being and my overall sense of self-worth, most notably being my body image. I think these are going to be things I struggle with forever. But, I’ve really found that saying my fears out loud (to people who are supportive) and being open with all of you here has helped (in addition to medication under the guidance of a supportive family physician, and therapist). The things that have changed the most for me are the fact that I now sleep. I have a sleepless night here or there, but not weeks straight of insomnia. I also can sit and play with Isabel, or sew, or watch tv without my brain spinning off uncontrollably in a million different directions.

I hate calling it anxiety. It sound so… stupid. Everyone has anxiety and it actually serves a helpful purpose. What I have is out of control, spinning, tornado fear-for-my-life catastrophic brain-chaos. I just don’t have a proper word for it. So, for now “anxiety” will have to do.

Valentine’s Day Sew Along: It’s on!

Valentine's Day Sew Along January 8, 2017

OK!!! I’ve wanted to do this for a long time and I’m finally getting around to it; A Valentine’s Day Sew Along!

This sew along will go over three pieces, with some basic pattern alterations.

First we’re going to sew a Jasmine Bra. I’m sewing a scalloped lace version, and I’ll show you how to add a longline band.

Secondly, we’re going to sew a pair of Claudia Panties, with one pattern adjustment: adding a lined sequin panel on the front, with fully encased seams. This is a little tricky and does require some pattern-hacking, but I’m confident we can all rock our way through this!

Last, we’re going to sew one of two garter belts: The Mina Garterbelt (which, if you ask me, is the perfect garter belt), or my new FREE! Cora Garter Belt.

Version 1

I’ve created two different pattern bundles. Version 1 contains the Jasmine Bra, Claudia Panties, and Mina Garter Belt Pattern. These are basically all of my favourite patterns. You can purchase this bundle Here, or through my Etsy Shop.

Version 2

Version 2 contains the Jasmine Bra, Claudia Panties, and the FREE Cora Tutorial. You can purchase this bundle directly here, or through my Etsy shop.

I’ll be posting soon about the supplies we will need. I know some of you will need to order supplies on line, which will lead to some delay, but I’m going to start posting as soon as possible, since we have a lot to cover before Valentine’s day!

In the meantime, you can take 15% off all of my sewing patterns Here or through my Etsy Shop by using the coupon code BeMine. Offer expires January 16, 2017, so you have 1 week to purchase your patterns!

Enter my Giveaway on Instagram!

Giveaway, Lingerie December 24, 2016

I’m trying something new… a Giveaway on Instagram! I haven’t done giveaways much over the years, but I am so in the holiday spirit this year that I wanted to share with all of you the only way I know how… with pretty lingerie!

The giveaway is happening on Instagram. Here are the rules:

  1. FOLLOW @OhhhLulu on Instgram
  2. SHARE any photo from my Lingerie Collection
  3. TAG me in the photo (@OhhhLulu) and use the HASHTAG #OhhhLuluLove

The giveaway is open internationally. A winner will be drawn at random after the contest closes on Dec 28th at Midnight. I will announce the giveaway winner on Instagram on December 29th 2016.

 

Good luck everyone! And happy holidays! This has been a transformative year for me. It’s been difficult and scary. I’ve faced some of my weaknesses, some skeletons in my closet, had some disappointments, but I’ve overcome so much. 2016 was a rough year for a lot of us (I’m looking at you Hillary). I think we’re all ready for some good cheer and fresh starts… and some pretty new lingerie.

Free Kitty Sleep Mask Pattern & Last Minute Holiday DIYS

Sewing Patterns December 22, 2016

I have been doing a lot of holiday gift sewing over the last month. I think nearly everyone on my list is getting at least one handmade item!  I’ve really enjoyed doing my gift sewing this year. It gave me an opportunity to branch out a bit from sewing underwear.

This is the first year in a long while I’ve really felt in the holiday spirit. I’m not sure if it’s seeing Isabel’s excitement, or just that I am in a healthier mindset, but I’m really excited for Christmas.

So, I thought I’d share some of the holiday cheer and offer up a FREE Kitty Sleep Mask Sewing Pattern. You can download it from my new pattern shop here: https://www.ohhhlululingerie.com/product/free-kitty-sleep-mask-pdf-sewing-pattern/ . You will be prompted to sign up for an account… don’t worry, it just takes a few seconds, and this way, you will be able to log in and access your pattern, along with any purchases you make from the website at any time.

 

The pattern will walk you through each step of the process, with some tips on using lightweight fabrics like satin and lace overlays. It’s a really quick and easy sew and is perfect for a last minute DIY gift.

Aside from sleep masks, I’ve been making a few other things this holiday season… I’ve become a little addicted to making my FOE sewn NOT tied hair ties, displayed on simple cardstock backings, as well as make-up bags.  I really liked this tutorial from Craftster for making make-up bags. I’ve sewn dozens of these, some for myself, some for sale at Changing of the Garnet, and lots more for gifts!

I’ve made so many things and have a few more gifts left on my to-make list before Sunday. It’s crunch time now!

I hope you enjoy my new FREE pattern and hopefully it will help you with any last minute DIY gifts this Christmas.