The Importance continues

Well, after sometime of figuring and writing, I finally had my list of supplies ready for shopping.
My first stop was a great place called "Fabric Warehouse" in Warren, Mi. The next stop was Joann's Fabric in Utica, Mi. Finally at 3:45 I grabbed a quick bite before I headed back to work.
As my list of supplies was not complete, I headed back out to Joann's in Rochester, Mi and from there the Joann's in Auburn Hills, Mi. With most of the supplies purchased, I headed home for the day.

Let me tell you, trying to find the right fabrics to complete a task isn't always easy. I would pull fabrics( in the warehouse, this would be large, heavy bolts)and compare them to the sketches and to each other to make sure I had the right look. I would put fabrics in the basket and go up and down the aisles. Sometimes, I felt like a plane in a holding pattern for landing! I should wear one of the gadgets that let you know how far you walk. I sure I put a couple of miles in.

Anyway, I said all that to say I've got my supplies and today I'll be the "Cut Up" ;) as I start putting patterns to the fabric and cutting out the pieces.

So what do you think?

Soon they'll be more then just drawing on paper. They'll be completed costumes for the play.

"The Importance of......"

Thanks to where I work, I get to do something I love...sewing Historical reproduction clothing.
http://www.thesewingroomutica.com/ is the website for the alteration shop I work at. The boss received an inquire from Belhaven University in Jackson, Miss. for costume work. To make things even more exciting for me, the play is "The Importance of Being Earnest". Can I just say YEAH!!!!

I had a conference call with Kris Dietrich and I believe the director(?) today. I wanted to do a Happy Dance when I got off the phone, but I restrained myself and went back to work.

I was able to get the sketches for what needed to be done

Then I pulled my reference books:
The Evolution of Fashion

and: Janet Arnold Patterns of Fashion 2

Next, I went and pulled patterns from my archives:

Past Patterns

and: Historical Patterns of Fashion from Simplicity, Butterick & McCall

Now, to figure out what patterns and or pieces I'm going to be using, then figure out the yardage. Tomorrow, I shop for fabric.

Here's the thing, I did "The Music Man" & "My Fair Lady" for our local high school and "1776", "Guys & Dolls", "Oklahoma" for community theatre. I know what it is to shop on a budget or no budget. I shop sales and bargains.

In construction, there's a difference between theatre costumes and Historical Reproduction street ware. With Theatre costumes, I don't have to be so accurate and I have to consider quick costume changes. Either way, I'm in my element.

I'll keep you posted as the work progresses.