Taking on the challenge of second hand sheets

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been working on a small made-by-me capsule wardrobe for summer. Thus far, I’ve complete the two dresses and have started work on one of the two shirts. The, as yet untouched, skirt is the final piece.

However, I’ve been finding how very expensive it is to sew using new fabric purchased by the metre. On a recent day off, I went for a wander through a few op shops and came home with three large quilt covers and a few metres of chambray fabric. These have added a new aspect of challenge to the capsule: I want to make clothes with them.

A budget find

The op shop had quite a few quilt sets, but it was a little challenging to find fabric that would drape well and feel nice to wear. I found one set in pink which is beautiful. I’m planning dresses for other people out of that one, as it’s not a shade that suits me, but the hand feel was delightful. It felt great rolling home with a huge bundle of fabric for only $20.

If I can pull off the creation of my two tops and skirt with these fabrics, I will be able to complete these last garments for about $10 each (allowing for buttons, interfacing, etc.). How good would that be?! That said, working with a sheet comes with it’s own set of challenges.

Second hand sheet challenges

Firstly, there’s a lot less fabric to work with. I won’t have the exact amount I need, as I would when buying by the metre. It’s also less clear where the grainline is, when you’re using a pre-made quilt cover or sheet. I’ll need to do a bit of careful pattern placement before cutting out. I’ll have to be very efficient with the fabric I have.

Another thing to consider if the ability to pattern match. Usually, you buy a bit of extra fabric to ensure all your stripes or checks line up. With a striped sheet, you’ve only got so much space to work with. One of my sheets is very striped, so I’ll have to see if this is even possible. If not, I’ll have to ensure that any mismatched patterns are not at the focal point of the garment.

Stay tuned for the second hand garments

I’ve been having a bit of a struggle with my top pattern, so I might switch projects and get the skirt underway. Hopefully this will stop me getting bogged down. Christmas is coming up soon, and it’s only going to get more busy I think!