My desire to make more of my own clothing has been renewed this year. I love having store bought new and vintage pieces but there's something deeply satisfying about starting from scratch with a piece of vintage fabric and turning it into a skirt or dress that no one else in the world has. My projects don't always turn out as lovely (or symmetrical) as I imagine them but I've learned a lot through each success and failure and have become more confident in what I can produce. It's my plan to share a few of the more simple sewing projects over the next few weeks as I create or recreate pieces for my wardrobe. I hope a few of you will join me in making your own.
First up is a simple lace top created using another one of my favorite tanks as a template. I'm not great at reading patterns but cutting out shapes is a piece of cake. It's common practice to deconstruct something (take it apart) to use it as a template but I don't like chopping up clothes that fit so I have chosen something that shares it's shape easily by moving it around a bit. I'm really happy with how it turned out and think I might try something in a lightweight cotton next.
Starting this project with an unfussy, loose tank will be your best bet at getting a wearable lace top out of it. I used synthetic lace so it was a bit stiffer than the top I started with but I love the way it wears. It's not static-clingy and doesn't swallow me up. I suggest ironing your seams using a dish towel or cotton fabric on top of your lace to protect it from too much heat. If you're unsure about your sewing ability, try testing this out on a cheap piece of fabric so you can work out the kinks before cutting into something you love.
CHALLENGE: Use a similar top but extend your length to turn it into a dress. Belt it and enjoy your new layering piece.
This project took about an hour including stopping to photograph and iron seams and only cost me $2 since the lace I used was thrifted. It's perfect for summer but I can also wear it over slip dresses and layer it with a tank and cardigan this fall.
If you tackle your own lace top using this DIY I'd love to see a photo! Feel free to link back and share your work with the rest of us.
-Rachel
Outfit Details: Top, handmade (duh). Tank, Target. Cut off jeans, thrifted. Vintage bolero and locket, thrifted. Wedges and sunglasses c/o ModCloth.
I'm Rachel Denbow, an author, e-course writer, maker, craft stylist, and general DIY enthusiast. 
