I picked up this vest at the thrift store recently.
There are several things about it that I really like:
- Fits great!
- Sturdy 100% cotton
- Has interesting details like those grommets, snaps, pockets and collar.
There are a couple of things I don't like about it:
- Those rhinestone palm trees on the lower back!
- It's boring!
Um, No.
I decided to spice up this vest with a vintage remnant that was gifted to me by some vintage relatives (sorry, that was a weak joke at the expense of the relatives) who've spent time in Africa. This piece is too small to do much with, but the color and pattern are so pretty. Those flower and birds in blue and yellow look almost Scandinavian, but that interesting circular pattern is definitely African or even Aboriginal in design. For a vest that hints of safari, I think this will do nicely!
It is probable that you do not have vintage African fabric in your fabric stash. No worries! You can use any large print, like maybe Aunt Mabel's tablecloth with the giraffes? Haha. If the fabric you would like to use is too fragile you can purchase an iron on interface to give it support.
When doing applique you want to make sure that your fabric doesn't shift around. On this refashion both fabrics were sturdy enough to stay where placed when pinned (pins are your friends). When I was able to fold down the edge I did a straight stitch. When I was sewing a raw edge I chose a zigzag. And to shake it up a little I made sure the front wasn't symmetrical, but if that's your thing, by all means . . .go for it!
I'm looking forward to wearing this with jeans or a denim skirt.
Stay cool and have fun,
The Elevated Bag Lady
No comments:
Post a Comment