Hi Vivi. Excellent tips! Let me pass one on to you in return. That very disintegrated light pink top that you are planning to dismantle and use as a pattern: you might find , given that it is coming apart at the seams, that rather than trying to unpick them (this might be very difficult with crumbly fabric), it might be easier to go for the quick and dirty method; you cut *very carefully* along each seam, right next to the stitching line. Try to reverse-engineer the pieces as you go, thinking about the order in which the garment was probably assembled and going backwards through the steps - so cut the armscye first, then take the yoke off the body pieces, etc. This gives you accurate pattern pieces, the edges of which are the seam lines, if you see what I mean. Then you add your preferred seam allowance, as you trace the pieces onto pattern tissue (or my favourite - very cheap rolls of Christmas paper bought at knockdown prices every January - much cheaper and pretty durable!). I guess I wouldn't do that for something very fitted, but on a loose item like your lovely blouse, I think it would be fine and might save you time and hassle. Good luck!
I'm 7 months from retirement and plan to return to how my parents kept us clothed many years ago. One to two 'best' outfits, which included some hand-me-downs, two sets of school uniform or town clothes/3 mix & match outfits for work, and old clothes for play, chores and relaxing.
We call them thrift stores here in the US. There are two of these stores close to me, and I find lots of clothes, used books and other things there. They get lots of business too.
I always keep my eye open for vintage sheets and duvet covers - perfect for pj pants for my teenagers. The other thing with buttons - always check the seams - often there will be a spare button sewn into the side seams. I've also bought a garment specifically to re-use it's buttons on something else.
Sewing was a necessity when growing up. I sewed most of my clothing in the '70s, my wedding gown, and a bridesmaid dress for myself for a friend's wedding. I made a few dresses for my daughter when she was a little one. Then I had another burst of sewing energy resulting in a stack of Summer blouses. I stopped sewing but would like to make a few quilts. Your video was very informative. Thank you for advising the art of frugality with clothing. It is okay to wear our clothing a long time. 🙂
Oh I love wearing my clothes for the longest time.....I get so sad when they get beyond repair! Good on you for sewing too.......I hope more people are taking it up again with all the lockdowns etc..... I used to love to make ALL my clothes but I simply don't have time anymore....I ned to find some time! :-)
Unfortunately there are no charity shops here in Italy, not like in the UK. I miss them so much. So I ask friends to give me the clothes they don't want, so most time I get total rubbish. Could you vivi make videos for absolute beginners to learn how to sew, I'd be so grateful.🌞🌻
I learned to sew as a tiny child (3) and its been a life long addiction since which I've passed down to all 4 of our children including my son (he also knits) and I'm now teaching our grandchildren. Love altering charity shop finds but my greatest greatest love has always been making real curtains, lined & bumped, 100% natural fabrics, 70% hand sewn. I'm much like you in the make do and mend department & when it just won't mend any more it becomes part of a quilt
Viv...Listening to you, is like listening to me....I have spent my life sewing knitting etc...I love charity shops, i do patchwork quilts etc so find loads of material for those..I hate waste of any sort...I too take garments apart piece by piece, patterns are expensive, if you find something that fits why not...i have maybe been made fun of in the past, do I care no!! i am 71 this year , and have enjoyed every minute....hope i have many more years to keep sewing...loads more things to make yet xxx
Lots of help here for almost everybody. You are a woman after my own heart. I do buy new but only undies and yarn for knitting and crochet. My clothes come from charity shops, in a former life they were often curtains or bed linen, my wedding dress started life as sheets and lace table cloths but that was 50 years ago. It was transformed into christening gowns and they are still being used in the family. I hope that you do manage a sewing course of some type over winter, you are never too old to learn a new trick.
I do exactly the same...and I wear my clothes until they fall apart... makes sense to me.. I have grandchildren I want them to have a decent future. Anyone says to me ooh that's nice is it new I say 'yes' it is New ( 'to me') .. I do repairs ,hems etc for neighbours I won't take money but... I call in favours when I need to... my electrician friend is fixing a light for me next week... I take up his work pant when he gets new ones... My other neighbour works in a coffee shop.. I repair her clothes I get coffee grounds for the garden... ( and the odd very posh sandwich) ...
Bartering! That is awesome. What the world doesn't understand is: This concept is how people used to live and we are going back to exactly that. Best wishes. .~ Debbie
My favorite way to save my clothes are those battery operated de-pillers. I've found they are more efficient than using a razor. I can't count how many times I've been able to prevent a shirt or coat from either being donated or tossed.
I was a sewer in my teens, on my mother's Hand Singer. Since then I haven't made anything...just mending? then I started watching the British Sewing Bee 🎉😊 now I've invested in a modern Singer and have made a dress for my grand daughter 😁 great ..me next .. got the pattern and the fabric..loving it..soo satisfying. Take care.
Hahaaaaa .... me too. I learned to sew on a Singer pedal sewing machine when I was five. Then the leather strap had to be put on etc. But after a while I could really sew on it.
That's my mindset too Vivi when buying clothes, not what's in fashion but what I'm comfy in. My daughter and I love the charity shops and my daughter does the majority of her clothes shopping this way. I'm always on the look out for nice bits for around the house. We have a great charity book shop but yes not always cheap for books now x
I mix a bit of fabric softener with water in a spray bottle and spray it on clothes that just need a refresh. Works perfectly! The mixture is also great on fabric sofas, curtains, jerseys etc. It's basically "Febrezze" without the antibacterial added.
Thrift shops have a much better and more interesting range of clothing than clothing stores. Thanks for the tip about GBSB. I love that show. Now I can binge on it. Yayyyy!
Again, a lovely video. Yes, if you decide to take the time to mend the clothes (and don’t watch tv or TH-cam ;-) it is so satisfying! Sometimes a few stiches and a garment will be perfectly alright again. How empowering! Since we are in our third year of no buy, or low buy rather, and I do want to have some clothes that copy the fashion silhouette and look a little bit modern and contemporary (even though there are timeless styles that are beautiful and will be beautiful like your blouses and the gorgeous linen dress) I love to alter my clothes, like High waisted pants from normal ones. Or changing skirt length. Easy to cut the length of some old pants, if you need shorts or bermudas etc. It’s fun!
I was lucky enough to be given a sewing machine by my neighbour, its a slow one but i like that and after watching your videos i actually got it out of the box and i'm looking fwd o repairing lots of things i've been putting off doing by handxx
Ive been itching to get of of my three ancient sewing machines out of storage and up and running again.I'm not a complete beginner but really out of practice...this has got my juices flowing again thanks Vivi.
This is probably my favorite of your videos so far. Although its hard to choose. Here in the states, we call similar shops thrift shops. Not all of ours benefit a charity. Some do, some are just ordinary folks who are willing to take donations and repair or clean things and put them up for sale. Either way a blessing for the budget and a save from the landfill. I agree with several other posts that it would be wonderful if you could teach us sewing. I can manage very simple things, a button or fixing an existing seam-beyond that its hopeless here. You already share so much of your time with us, I hope this isn’t too much of an ask. All the best from North Carolina😊 Melody B in NC
That was a very interesting video. I never knew about waxing thread for buttons. 😊. I do hope you’ll show us the new shirt you make out of the pattern from your old one.
I used to make all my own clothes and then my children' s too. Much harder to find the patterns and fabrics now, so like you Vivi, its the charity shops for me! You have give me even more ideas now! Thank you lovely! xxx
I think one of the reasons I slowed down with making my own is the price of patterns and fabrics........but the charity shop finds can really plug a gap. :-)
YES, YES, a million times, YES!!! Puh-leease do a sewing series this winter!!! My daughter, Peez, taught herself to use her sewing machine (Christmas gift) and she is WAY into sewing now. She watches lots of YT tutes about breaking down garments and making patterns, etc. I don't know a bobbin from my arse, so I am really interested in her learning to sew. If you decide to do a series I will use it as part of our homeschool curriculum (art) and it would be a joyful addition! Ohhhh...now you've gotten me pumped!! You are a lady of many talents--God bless you!
Fabulous, fabulous! I loved this video. Grew up in a 'make do and mend' household, and I love the satisfaction of prolonging the life of my articles of clothing!! Some people think I'm daft because I darn my socks! I'd rather pay for darning cotton I'll have for years than forking over more money for brand new socks. Cannot wait to see your video about the deconstruction and recreation of your top! I love it! :-)
Oooooh, I love darning! Hahaha, I hated it as a kid when I was forced to do it but now......oh it's such a lovely, quiet, meditative job to do.......and so satisfying to give my socks another few months of life......especially my favourite hand-knitted socks (I'm obsessed with my hand-knitted socks.......I love them beyond what is normal). :-)
Oh vivi please do a sewing video. Like you, I left nursing early as burnt out. Love charity shopping. I would love to be able to alter lovely charity shop pieces I see but are not my size or damaged
Love your ideas about buttons. I rarely get time to sew any more, but when my children were small, I did a lot of sewing. I even came up with a pattern that was 1 piece that I cut out 4 times to make either a sunsuit or overalls for my youngest. I am kind of a messy eater and often ruin my t-shirts by stains on the front, so I embroider over the spots, sometimes adding additional embroidery to create flowers or balloons or words to cover the stains.
Ditto, Vivi! Sound advice. I've got garments still in perfect condition going on 30 years. Though I've finally conceded it's time to get some new gear as a lot of my favourite items are dissolving before my eyes and actually slipping off me...hahaha. I hate clothes shopping, but lately I've been thinking about making some clothes, especially since investing in a new sewing machine and I've been watching a lot of sewing tutorials on TH-cam as well. Have fun, Ms Vivi! 😘🍺🌻
Wonderful video Vivi. Exactly what I do. I recently made reversible aprons for my granddaughters out of my husbands old shirts. He wears rather loud shirts😂. They loved them. I made one granddaughter a privacy curtain for around her top bunk bed out of an old cotton flat sheet and trimmed it all with an old jelly roll I have had for ages. I love doing this. Take care and keep safe.
What lovely fabric, such a thoughtful gift. I enjoy "thrifting" as well. When we last travelled in Scotland, we made a point of checking out the Charity Shops. I purchased a wonderful vintage set of shot glasses painted with a thistle and the gold rim just worn enough to be beautiful. Best ever souvenir.
I’ve so missed charity shops during lockdown and though some are beginning to open we’re still only doing a weekly food shop at the moment. I love charity shopping. Most of my clothes and all our hundreds and hundreds of books come solely from charity shops. I love the clothes finding a Betty Jackson jacket! I loved it and the dress was gorgeous. Such great mending tips Vivi great advice. 👍🏻😃
I loved this Vivi. I think we've followed the same path from making our own clothes to charity shop buying! Thing is material just became prohibitively expensive so reusing and reimagining some well loved fabric makes perfect sense. And what a bargain that dress was - you can't beat a bit of linen. Of course I spied those lovely shoes in the background - I have a similar pair in red - sadly my cobbling skills aren't up to much though and they are now at the 'so well loved they are falling to pieces' stage - maybe they should do a Great British Cobble Off - hmmmm ... Let's keep everything crossed for more frock weather soon! Take care.
Hahaha re the shoes.....I really wanted the ones in red but settled on the brown to match more stuff..........but.........I still really want the red! Hahaha - the little things. ;-) Hope you're both well lovely. X
What a lot of great basic info. If I ever have room for my grandmother's sewing machine and can master the threading part, I intend to try some simple things with straight lines. For now, I hem pants and repair by hand. Hope Richard sees this video. He is very thrifty with his sewing. Lol
I love the "Great British Sewing Bee" and have watched all episodes several times. Above all, I always liked the days when the candidates had to tailor something different from an ordinary piece of clothing. The results were often spectacular. My mother was a master tailor and sewed all the clothes for herself and for us children. She was responsible for broken zippers. However, she explained the whole thing to me once, and then I had to do it myself. What was absolutely no fun for me back then, however, as I was decades younger. We don't have any charity shops here, which I think is a shame. About the buttons: I also have a decent collection of buttons, which I look at from time to time. And .... sliding your hands through the buttons has an absolutely relaxing effect. I also have a small collection of beautiful mother-of-pearl buttons, which I love very much. So, to the end: cheers for all repaired holes, sewn-on pockets, patched hems and sewn-in zippers. How about a "Vivi's Sewing Bee ....." - but then with at least five episodes a week. (Hahahaaaa ..... you have sooooo much time, you can easily do it!) Big hug, my sewing friend Claudia
Oooooooooh, Mother-of-Pearl buttons........gorgeous.....I had a huge collection at one time but started using them all on gifts I was making and now I have none.......need to hunt for some more. Happy memories. :-)
Vivi you are so talented, I have taken jackets to the dry cleaners to replace invisible zips and have been so disappointed, so much that the jackets went in the bin when I got home. Before you say it, I know it’s such a waste of money. I have learnt my lesson now, they can’t do invisible zips. I wish I had paid more attention to my mum, she could create a garment from nothing.
I'd love to see more dress making as my skills are basic lol, you're inspiring me to get my sewing in check lol. I've got basic skills, I have a sewing machine but hardly use it. x
I just found your channel and your enthusiasm is highly infectious in a good way, not all viral Covid at all! I feel so free and easy as I listen to you and see your beautiful smile and indomitable spirit! Wow! You go girl! 💐
Hi Vivi, I love your channel. It gives me so much inspiration. You are totally amazing. Like the books you read about the Yukon . I have lived in the Yukon, NWT and Nunavut where we order our groceries for the whole year in the Spring to arrive in the Autumn by barge. I lived their for 9 years living with the Inuit and it was one of the best time of my life. Take care.
I used to doing some sewing, but now it's mostly just making a simple curtain here and there or doing a little T-shirt mending. That's about all I wear these days -- shorts and T-shirts with wildlife pictures on them (mostly black bears). Lots of good info here, though, Vivi! Good to see you got some great deals!
Hi viv. Im a big charity shop shopper. Very rarely buy new. However i never considered altering/mending items. Next time i go i shall be thinking differently. Inspired me with my gardening and now with me fashion lol. 😀 always enjoy your vids. Take care. P.S hope u do some sewing vids in winter. It will help keep me going during the long dark winter months. Lol. 😻
Great video! 👗👚 Your two new dresses are so pretty.👗 I love thrift shops , and most of my clothes are from there. I always look for good quality older clothes there, they last much longer. I often alter things, albeit not too professionally! Ours are not open yet; can’t wait to see what’s there when they do. We have two nearby, which benefit our local hospital and the hospice too. 🙂 (My best find ever was a very long black Aquascutum raincoat with a scarlet flannel lining; wore it a few years then donated it back.)
Great tips, Vivi, and not just for women. I have an old sewing machine that I bought at a thrift store for $50. I use it for repairs. Oooh, pockets. I bought some lounge pants and discovered it had no pockets when my keys dropped to the floor. Another pair of lounge pants ripped up the leg, not even on the seam. I may turn them into sleeping shorts and use the leg material to make some contrasting patch pockets for the other pair. I'm wearing a shirt, right now, that's missing the top button. I'm not going to replace it, though, because I hate to be choked. When you get tired of patching behind the lace yoke of that top, since the rest of it seems made of tougher material, maybe just make a pattern of the complete yoke and replace it. ~ Jon in rural BC, Canada
I love to hear how others make do and mend. I have always repaired everything and especially love to do visible mending. I call it my Holly Hobbie/Pippi Longstocking look. :)
My charity shop will take rags because they can sell them, I only found out because I asked. Mothed, shrunken woollies? Compost if no other re-purposing. Thanks for the video, lots of food for thought,
I think many of your viewers shop second hand, including myself. I’m definitely not a fashion guru. I’d rather be comfortable and wear what fits my informal lifestyle. Those dreaded “skinny” jeans don’t work for a larger sized 62 y.o.! I have two formal dresses hanging in my closet each worn only once at weddings (daughters weddings, they picked them out). You gave me a great idea, use the material to make something else! Happy birthday Vivi !
Hi from Chicago. I only buy one or two new pieces of clothing in a year. Last year I bought a pair of shoes. This year I bought two long sleeve shirts. I collect old buttons. People give me their old clothes. If I can't use them, I pass them on. I wear the worst clothes at home when cleaning. Beyond that, they are rags. My kids always wore old clothes when they were young. Tina
The lavender fabric is so beautiful! Charity shops are much fun. I also like loose, comfortable clothing. I've always gone for comfort. Your garment in need of much repair looks soooo comfy! I'm not skilled at sewing but would wear it as is at home :-) However, since you are making a pattern, you might do well selling them. I think it is a beautiful garment that many people would like. Great tips Vivi, thank you!
@@WhatVivididnext Yes! The pockets! I'm looking for some kind of garden tool belt now though, lol. I don't even want to think about what that will look like!!?
I have gone to a thrift store and on some days they would have clothes for $.50 cents (US dollars) lots of great finds when you’re patient wish you had one there!
Our op shop have a button basket. I think they cut buttons off donated clothes that can't be saved. I have bought many buttons there. I have also picked up very good clothes at op shop for my own use. My girls often have themed parties they attend and we go opshop hunting then. Another thing I get at opshops is craft items. I found a quilt top that was 90% finished there and finished it. I also found several cross stich patterns that I pass on to a friend who loves doing it. Then also there are sewing supplies I have found fat quarters and even rolls with 6 metres of fabric there, cotton thread, needles, bias tape, handles for handbags. I love op shop hunting. Most of the stuff is good a lot often come from deceased estates. Here in Australia it is very cheap sometimes you can get a whole bag for $6.
All my stuff comes from charity shops or car boot sales! At church we pass black bags of clothes between families once we are done with them! I have two jars of buttons that were my grandmothers! Some really old buttons in there! My eldest daughters wedding dress was even from a charity shop! I love the sewing challenge program!
Hi Vivi, you are a talent to be able to really repair your clothing to stretch their life. Good for you. One thing I do, is either get clothing from Garage Sales, and Thrift Stores, and also my Best Friend's Mom is 95 years young and when she doesn't want her tops anymore, she gives them to her daughter who gives them to me to either use myself or maybe sell at a yard sale. She has great taste and loves good colors, so, usually I can end up recieving two or three new tops in a couple of months. Like today, my Best Friend brought a bag with three tops in it for me to do what I would like...and Two of the Tops are lovely, and so I will wash them and wear them gladly. God Bless, Sherry :)
24:27 to 32:26 Trigger warning for anyone with koumpounophobia. I’ve always liked charity shops. Another good thing about them is that, sometimes the high street shops go through a phase of fashion/styles/shades/lengths/materials that would never look acceptable on me, but charity shops have a much wider range of styles, materials and colours all year round. Better chance of finding something that suits me, not the retailers.
Loved this. Learned some valuable tips. Waxing threads for buttons...I never knew that. I would certainly enjoy more videos on sewing from you when you're able to. Very useful and interesting. Thankyou! R.
Hahaha - I think after the lesson you gave me on my sewing machine foot it should be you doing the tutorials! I'm going to have a play with that foot tomorrow. ;-)
Oh vivi, you should try out for the gbsb you would be so lovely on it! They would love you, then you might get your own tv show🤗 ok but you never know, what could happen. Yes please to some sewing lessons, loved this video, you are certainly an inspiring lady. I was going to buy a sewing machine recently, but what with troubling Financial Times and not being able to go and look, mind just as well, as I don’t think I can stretch to it now. Thank you lock down, although I have found amazon 😬😮. Do you what I have been interupted I have to get on now, don’t know what I have said already, but it’s all brill, you are brill, and thank you for your bothering to inform. Xx
Sewing machines are SO expensive now.......but you might be able to find a second hand, reconditioned one for a LOT less.......my first machine was such ( a 'Princess') and cost me all of £25 (in about 1989!!!). I love GBSB but I could NEVER sew under those time pressures......I marvel at their ability to do so! :-)
Loved this video! Have come away with lots of hints and tips and bursting with ideas! A few dressmaking videos over winter sounds like a brilliant idea.
Brilliant ideas Vivi! You are so very fortunate that you grew up with the knowledge of sewing. I have a sewing machine gifted to me by my late grandpa back when I took a sewing course at a local school. My talents are not nearly as extensive as yours but I can benefit from your clever ideas on how to do repairs! I love the buttons -as-style ideas. This comment is in reference to an older video About mending and repairs ! Thanks loads! ❤️ Marilyn USA x
Thank you lovely! I think the big thing with sewing.....like any other skill.....is to have fun with it and keep at it and keep learning. Oh, and also, some things go horribly wrong, but that's OK too......its all part of honing the skill. 😉
Love the linen dress. I was looking at something very similar to make a summer dress and it was 30 euros a metre and I needed 3 metres, xo I think you got a real bargain there.
I love Shetland wool sweaters for winter. It does get quiet cold here in NE Texas for about 6-7 months of the year. Now to buy these lovely sweaters new cost about $100-200 a sweater here in the US. Our charity shops here just simply never have them for re-sale. The only thing I can surmise is women are just holding on to them and I can understand that. All of the lower priced department stores ( here) sell new but the winter things are thin and cheaply made and expensive. Much to thin for our winters. I wish I could knit but I don't. So I do buy very good quality winter attire. These sweaters and other woolen items such as pants etc.. will last for many years. Great video~ thank you. ~ Debbie
You're such a clever, resourceful gal. My gran was a great seamstress and I remember my mum saying she could see a dress in a shop window and then go home, make up the pattern from memory and create one of her own. I hope you enjoy your bit of time off!
I like that you mend your clothing rather than simply throw them out which many people do. I'm curious how old the tops are that you will repair so I have some idea how long other people's clothes last. I tend to buy whatever I can find on low cost new as opposed to 2nd hand largely because I can never find what I want 2nd hand. My clothing lasts so long even with regular washing. The only repairs I tend to need are for lost buttons and sometimes seams that come undone because of poor workmanship. Instead of covering the eyelet lace on the sleeveless top it might be a better idea to look for some similar weight eyelet lace and replace the worn one. You could probably find some similar, inexpensive fabric somewhere. Anyway, just a thought. I'll be interested in seeing your repair once it's done. I really love the blue floral linen dress you bought at the charity shop. It's beautiful and you got a wonderful buy. One more tip about the missing button is to check the inside bottom of the blouse. Often there is a spare button there that the wearer did not cut off when they purchased. I never cut mine off. I leave them there in case I need it. It saves me from going through the buttons I have.
Hmmm, it's nigh on impossible to say how old the tops are that I need to repair as they were bought second hand so I don't know how long they had been worn for before me......but......I find I tend to wear things out in about three years.....I don't have many clothes so the things I do have tend to be worn at least once every week. :-)
Loved this video! Lots of great tips there Vivi! I've been watching the Sewing Bee too & really enjoyed it - I liked he lady who wore the 1940's vintage look 😊
I love buttons too. I have memories of my grandmother's button jars. At out thrift stores in USA, when there is a great sale on clothes, I often buy just for the buttons. I've even seen a designer shirt with 2 different kinds of buttons on shirt, alternating the kinds. Cool design feature.
Thanks Vivi! I almost threw out a blouse that was too long. Just forgot I could easily shorten it. And the idea of taking a favourite garment apart and making an identical one! Thank you so much!
Beautiful fabric... Must go on eBay and search for similar fabrics. I love lavender 💙 😍❤️ PS: I was brought up with make do and mend, I wear things till they drop off me in the garden. So, I thought of buying duvet covers (charity shops) and cutting them up to make tops, skirts etcetera. I'm still in the process of deciding what to make first... But I'm thinking it might be a winter project 🤔 can't wait for the charity shops to re-open 👍
Oh this is inspiring! My mom taught us to sew and I did dressmaking for friends when I was in school, so I could do most of this, but I haven’t your imagination or sense of fun. . .but I could maybe develop my skills again. Thank you for reawakening the joy of sewing and mending. And that jacket and oh my, that linen dress!!! Gorgeous!
Oh, Vivi, this was such great content, I loved it! I’ve been so busy outside and dealing with processing a million tart cherries, no time for sewing. I walk past my sewing room and look longingly at the quilt I want to work on. I do shop here in the states at our thrift stores for clothes. I tend not to buy things that need repair, but I have done pretty much every type of repair you mentioned. I love the dress and jacket you found, great shopping skills! Thanks!
Ahhhhh.......our sewing rooms are languishing........but only because we're having so much joy outside......by winter our sewing rooms will come into their own again......embrace the seasons. :-)
Vivi, have you ever tried to sew a silk ribbon on the inside of a seam area that is getting thin? You can also use a strip of double over clothe the same way. It makes the seam stronger.
Ooo love a charity shop. Car boot sales are brilliant for picking up craft items, duvets snd sheets for backing bunting and sometimes clothes are a £1 each! I buy things and sell them on eBay sometimes. The charity shops where I live are quite expensive. When I visit my friend in a different part of the town, we got to the charity shops and they are much cheaper. It may be worth going a bit further afield. Love the video.
It's so expensive around here.....but it also costs to go further afield.......but......when I visit my great aunt I always have a bit of a rummage in her shops and nearly always find a fab bargain! I'm looking forward to being able to get back to my routine of seeing her each week.......and her charity shops. ;-)
I've been crocheting for some years now but sewing has always scared me a bit. I never seem to get on with my machine. I've had a few reasonably successful goes, but then I put away the machine and the fear returns. I've recently got it out again to make some cloth face masks - I even made my own pattern. I've also discovered English paper piecing as a wonderful meditative pastime (well, when the kittens will let me!) So I think I'm finally beginning to get the sewing bug. I've always patched my jeans but I think I might have a go at some of my old tops 😀
Hi Vivi! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! 🎈🎉🎂❤️ Great video, good stuff! ☺️ I hope you enjoyed your tennis, tea and got your mending done. Until next time, be well.😉💗💗💗
Enjoyed this Vivi, love your Betty Jackson jacket, too. I’m inspired to tidy/pimp up my clothes now as I’ve lost 16lbs in lockdown by eating once a day and can fit into some of my old garments. It’s refreshing to see you get so much use of your clothes . I use end of life fabric pieces as pressing rags, esp when pressing white garments because my iron is a spitter!
Wow, that's fabulous....you must feel so much better for it! I need to lose a load too but find it harder these days as I can't move as much or as quickly because of stupid pain.
( Supermarket reduced rack are brilliant too... ) Last week while doing neighbours shopping... picked up a little cotton blouse for less than I would have paid in a charity shop.(£4) and sometimes in charity shop 50p bins you may find horrible garments with lovely buttons... I chop off the buttons and re cycle the fabric.
You always seem to amaze me! I am so happy to know you are a think outside of the box person too. I look at things and more than not think, I can use it in a different way. Just today I recycled soda bottles to plant in and a couple mushroom containers too.
I loved this video. The shirt button trick, brilliant. I haven't bought a new item of clothes in so long, (underwear is my exception, lol). My second hand shops are so good. I don't think I've spent more than about $5 CAD for anything in a couple of years. I even keep jeans to use as patch fabric, lol.
Thank you for sharing your hints and tips on clothing. I love a bargain so can't wait to have a rummage around my local charity shops. Take care, Vivi. Warmest wishes. Jan x
Yay! Thank you lovely....it's like my ever changing paint box.....sometimes, if I'm feeling really down and tired....I pull out a few fabrics to simply enjoy their patterns and colours.....it always works a treat at cheering me up. 😊
Always check the inside label on garments too because a spare button is often attached
Oh yes!!! That's a really good point - thank you! :-)
Hi Vivi. Excellent tips! Let me pass one on to you in return. That very disintegrated light pink top that you are planning to dismantle and use as a pattern: you might find , given that it is coming apart at the seams, that rather than trying to unpick them (this might be very difficult with crumbly fabric), it might be easier to go for the quick and dirty method; you cut *very carefully* along each seam, right next to the stitching line. Try to reverse-engineer the pieces as you go, thinking about the order in which the garment was probably assembled and going backwards through the steps - so cut the armscye first, then take the yoke off the body pieces, etc. This gives you accurate pattern pieces, the edges of which are the seam lines, if you see what I mean. Then you add your preferred seam allowance, as you trace the pieces onto pattern tissue (or my favourite - very cheap rolls of Christmas paper bought at knockdown prices every January - much cheaper and pretty durable!). I guess I wouldn't do that for something very fitted, but on a loose item like your lovely blouse, I think it would be fine and might save you time and hassle. Good luck!
Absolutely......I may just have to do this. :-)
I'm 7 months from retirement and plan to return to how my parents kept us clothed many years ago. One to two 'best' outfits, which included some hand-me-downs, two sets of school uniform or town clothes/3 mix & match outfits for work, and old clothes for play, chores and relaxing.
Yay, good on you lovely/ 😊
I wash a lot of my clothes in nets to protect them. Also air dry everything. My clothes last for years and years
Love your channel binge watching entire play list including the advertising.
Thank you so much Carolyn, that's much appreciated. :-)
^Same here! 🥰💖💝
We call them thrift stores here in the US. There are two of these stores close to me, and I find lots of clothes, used books and other things there. They get lots of business too.
Yay for these stores. :-)
I always keep my eye open for vintage sheets and duvet covers - perfect for pj pants for my teenagers. The other thing with buttons - always check the seams - often there will be a spare button sewn into the side seams. I've also bought a garment specifically to re-use it's buttons on something else.
Hahaha, yes, here here re buying a piece just for the buttons! Gosh, buying new buttons....so expensive these days! ;-)
Sewing was a necessity when growing up. I sewed most of my clothing in the '70s, my wedding gown, and a bridesmaid dress for myself for a friend's wedding. I made a few dresses for my daughter when she was a little one. Then I had another burst of sewing energy resulting in a stack of Summer blouses. I stopped sewing but would like to make a few quilts.
Your video was very informative. Thank you for advising the art of frugality with clothing. It is okay to wear our clothing a long time. 🙂
Oh I love wearing my clothes for the longest time.....I get so sad when they get beyond repair! Good on you for sewing too.......I hope more people are taking it up again with all the lockdowns etc..... I used to love to make ALL my clothes but I simply don't have time anymore....I ned to find some time! :-)
I make all my own clothes. When you've put all those hours into making things you really take care of them too!
Unfortunately there are no charity shops here in Italy, not like in the UK. I miss them so much. So I ask friends to give me the clothes they don't want, so most time I get total rubbish. Could you vivi make videos for absolute beginners to learn how to sew, I'd be so grateful.🌞🌻
I'd love to do a mini series......we'll see how time goes. Big love and hugs to you sweetie. XXX
I learned to sew as a tiny child (3) and its been a life long addiction since which I've passed down to all 4 of our children including my son (he also knits) and I'm now teaching our grandchildren. Love altering charity shop finds but my greatest greatest love has always been making real curtains, lined & bumped, 100% natural fabrics, 70% hand sewn. I'm much like you in the make do and mend department & when it just won't mend any more it becomes part of a quilt
Yay and hurray for passing your lovely skills on!!!! :-)
Viv...Listening to you, is like listening to me....I have spent my life sewing knitting etc...I love charity shops, i do patchwork quilts etc so find loads of material for those..I hate waste of any sort...I too take garments apart piece by piece, patterns are expensive, if you find something that fits why not...i have maybe been made fun of in the past, do I care no!! i am 71 this year , and have enjoyed every minute....hope i have many more years to keep sewing...loads more things to make yet xxx
Yay good on you lovely.....a girl after my own heart! :-)
Lots of help here for almost everybody. You are a woman after my own heart. I do buy new but only undies and yarn for knitting and crochet. My clothes come from charity shops, in a former life they were often curtains or bed linen, my wedding dress started life as sheets and lace table cloths but that was 50 years ago. It was transformed into christening gowns and they are still being used in the family. I hope that you do manage a sewing course of some type over winter, you are never too old to learn a new trick.
Oh I love the story of your wedding dress.......a unique, beautiful way to celebrate your wedding - gorgeous! :-)
I do exactly the same...and I wear my clothes until they fall apart... makes sense to me.. I have grandchildren I want them to have a decent future. Anyone says to me ooh that's nice is it new I say 'yes' it is New ( 'to me') .. I do repairs ,hems etc for neighbours I won't take money but... I call in favours when I need to... my electrician friend is fixing a light for me next week... I take up his work pant when he gets new ones... My other neighbour works in a coffee shop.. I repair her clothes I get coffee grounds for the garden... ( and the odd very posh sandwich) ...
Hurrah for 'new to me'!!!! And what a great exchange relationship with your coffee shop friend....I love that! :-)
Bartering! That is awesome. What the world doesn't understand is: This concept is how people used to live and we are going back to exactly that. Best wishes. .~ Debbie
My favorite way to save my clothes are those battery operated de-pillers. I've found they are more efficient than using a razor. I can't count how many times I've been able to prevent a shirt or coat from either being donated or tossed.
Yay, good on you lovely. 😊
I was a sewer in my teens, on my mother's Hand Singer. Since then I haven't made anything...just mending? then I started watching the British Sewing Bee 🎉😊 now I've invested in a modern Singer and have made a dress for my grand daughter 😁 great ..me next .. got the pattern and the fabric..loving it..soo satisfying. Take care.
Hahaaaaa .... me too. I learned to sew on a Singer pedal sewing machine when I was five. Then the leather strap had to be put on etc. But after a while I could really sew on it.
Yay! Good on you lovely! Have fun making and experimenting. :-)
That's my mindset too Vivi when buying clothes, not what's in fashion but what I'm comfy in. My daughter and I love the charity shops and my daughter does the majority of her clothes shopping this way. I'm always on the look out for nice bits for around the house. We have a great charity book shop but yes not always cheap for books now x
I mix a bit of fabric softener with water in a spray bottle and spray it on clothes that just need a refresh. Works perfectly! The mixture is also great on fabric sofas, curtains, jerseys etc. It's basically "Febrezze" without the antibacterial added.
I do similar with my mix of vinegar and essential oils. Yay for doing it without the shops. ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext I do the same....rinse with a bit of white vinegar and essential oil instead of fabric softener.
Thrift shops have a much better and more interesting range of clothing than clothing stores. Thanks for the tip about GBSB. I love that show. Now I can binge on it. Yayyyy!
Happy binging! :-)
Again, a lovely video. Yes, if you decide to take the time to mend the clothes (and don’t watch tv or TH-cam ;-) it is so satisfying! Sometimes a few stiches and a garment will be perfectly alright again. How empowering!
Since we are in our third year of no buy, or low buy rather, and I do want to have some clothes that copy the fashion silhouette and look a little bit modern and contemporary (even though there are timeless styles that are beautiful and will be beautiful like your blouses and the gorgeous linen dress) I love to alter my clothes, like High waisted pants from normal ones. Or changing skirt length. Easy to cut the length of some old pants, if you need shorts or bermudas etc. It’s fun!
Yay, good on you lovely! Happy altering and making your own! 😊
I was lucky enough to be given a sewing machine by my neighbour, its a slow one but i like that and after watching your videos i actually got it out of the box and i'm looking fwd o repairing lots of things i've been putting off doing by handxx
Oh I'm delighted to hear you've got it out! Yay! Have fun getting to know it and racing through your repairs. 😀
Ive been itching to get of of my three ancient sewing machines out of storage and up and running again.I'm not a complete beginner but really out of practice...this has got my juices flowing again thanks Vivi.
Try having a go at re cycling your unloved garments into a lap quilt to get going.... rekindle the mojo.
Yay for the juices flowing again........woohoo....go for it lovely! :-)
Love this episode,Vivi.
I would love to see more of your sewing episodes.
I would love to do more sewing videos....but, hahaha, I never seem to find the time.....I will try though. Thank you lovely. :-)
This is probably my favorite of your videos so far. Although its hard to choose. Here in the states, we call similar shops thrift shops. Not all of ours benefit a charity. Some do, some are just ordinary folks who are willing to take donations and repair or clean things and put them up for sale. Either way a blessing for the budget and a save from the landfill. I agree with several other posts that it would be wonderful if you could teach us sewing. I can manage very simple things, a button or fixing an existing seam-beyond that its hopeless here. You already share so much of your time with us, I hope this isn’t too much of an ask. All the best from North Carolina😊 Melody B in NC
Thank you Melody.....I would love to fit in some sewing videos.....fingers crossed. :-)
That was a very interesting video. I never knew about waxing thread for buttons. 😊. I do hope you’ll show us the new shirt you make out of the pattern from your old one.
I certainly hope to. :-)
Also include a shank when you sew on the button. It strengthens the button attachment and makes the jacket hang better.
I used to make all my own clothes and then my children' s too. Much harder to find the patterns and fabrics now, so like you Vivi, its the charity shops for me! You have give me even more ideas now! Thank you lovely! xxx
I think one of the reasons I slowed down with making my own is the price of patterns and fabrics........but the charity shop finds can really plug a gap. :-)
YES, YES, a million times, YES!!! Puh-leease do a sewing series this winter!!! My daughter, Peez, taught herself to use her sewing machine (Christmas gift) and she is WAY into sewing now. She watches lots of YT tutes about breaking down garments and making patterns, etc. I don't know a bobbin from my arse, so I am really interested in her learning to sew. If you decide to do a series I will use it as part of our homeschool curriculum (art) and it would be a joyful addition! Ohhhh...now you've gotten me pumped!! You are a lady of many talents--God bless you!
Oh that's a great Christmas present and how wonderful that she has taken to it with so much enthusiam......yay, go for it Peez! :-)
Fabulous, fabulous! I loved this video. Grew up in a 'make do and mend' household, and I love the satisfaction of prolonging the life of my articles of clothing!! Some people think I'm daft because I darn my socks! I'd rather pay for darning cotton I'll have for years than forking over more money for brand new socks. Cannot wait to see your video about the deconstruction and recreation of your top! I love it! :-)
Oooooh, I love darning! Hahaha, I hated it as a kid when I was forced to do it but now......oh it's such a lovely, quiet, meditative job to do.......and so satisfying to give my socks another few months of life......especially my favourite hand-knitted socks (I'm obsessed with my hand-knitted socks.......I love them beyond what is normal). :-)
Also, very good quality jackets and coats often have a spare button tacked inside.
Oh vivi please do a sewing video. Like you, I left nursing early as burnt out. Love charity shopping. I would love to be able to alter lovely charity shop pieces I see but are not my size or damaged
I would love to.....I have to get a bit more organised though as my time keeps disappearing! ;-)
Love your ideas about buttons. I rarely get time to sew any more, but when my children were small, I did a lot of sewing. I even came up with a pattern that was 1 piece that I cut out 4 times to make either a sunsuit or overalls for my youngest. I am kind of a messy eater and often ruin my t-shirts by stains on the front, so I embroider over the spots, sometimes adding additional embroidery to create flowers or balloons or words to cover the stains.
Hahaha - I love the idea of a pretty embroidered top that hides the fact of messy eating! Brilliant! :-)
Ditto, Vivi! Sound advice. I've got garments still in perfect condition going on 30 years. Though I've finally conceded it's time to get some new gear as a lot of my favourite items are dissolving before my eyes and actually slipping off me...hahaha. I hate clothes shopping, but lately I've been thinking about making some clothes, especially since investing in a new sewing machine and I've been watching a lot of sewing tutorials on TH-cam as well. Have fun, Ms Vivi! 😘🍺🌻
Hahaha - yes, when they start disolving you know it's time to go shopping again. I too loathe clothes shopping......ugh, especially bra shopping! :-)
Wonderful video Vivi. Exactly what I do. I recently made reversible aprons for my granddaughters out of my husbands old shirts. He wears rather loud shirts😂. They loved them. I made one granddaughter a privacy curtain for around her top bunk bed out of an old cotton flat sheet and trimmed it all with an old jelly roll I have had for ages. I love doing this. Take care and keep safe.
Oh they sound like such lovely, fun projects.......and you're quietly teaching your granddaughters some invaluable lessons! Yay - go grandma! :-)
What lovely fabric, such a thoughtful gift. I enjoy "thrifting" as well. When we last travelled in Scotland, we made a point of checking out the Charity Shops. I purchased a wonderful vintage set of shot glasses painted with a thistle and the gold rim just worn enough to be beautiful. Best ever souvenir.
Oh what a great momento/souvenir. :-)
Love, love the frugal way!!! I love to sew and have for 40 years and Love to go the thrifts. Love the video Vivi-take care.
Thank you lovely. :-)
I’ve so missed charity shops during lockdown and though some are beginning to open we’re still only doing a weekly food shop at the moment. I love charity shopping. Most of my clothes and all our hundreds and hundreds of books come solely from charity shops. I love the clothes finding a Betty Jackson jacket! I loved it and the dress was gorgeous. Such great mending tips Vivi great advice. 👍🏻😃
Oh I've SOOOOOOOO missed the book browsing too! ;-)
I loved this Vivi. I think we've followed the same path from making our own clothes to charity shop buying! Thing is material just became prohibitively expensive so reusing and reimagining some well loved fabric makes perfect sense. And what a bargain that dress was - you can't beat a bit of linen. Of course I spied those lovely shoes in the background - I have a similar pair in red - sadly my cobbling skills aren't up to much though and they are now at the 'so well loved they are falling to pieces' stage - maybe they should do a Great British Cobble Off - hmmmm ... Let's keep everything crossed for more frock weather soon! Take care.
Hahaha re the shoes.....I really wanted the ones in red but settled on the brown to match more stuff..........but.........I still really want the red! Hahaha - the little things. ;-) Hope you're both well lovely. X
This was really nice to watch as just a little bit of a change ❤
Thanks David. :-)
What a lot of great basic info. If I ever have room for my grandmother's sewing machine and can master the threading part, I intend to try some simple things with straight lines. For now, I hem pants and repair by hand. Hope Richard sees this video. He is very thrifty with his sewing. Lol
Oh do have a go on your granny's machine......that would be lovely! :-)
I love the "Great British Sewing Bee" and have watched all episodes several times.
Above all, I always liked the days when the candidates had to tailor something different from an ordinary piece of clothing. The results were often spectacular.
My mother was a master tailor and sewed all the clothes for herself and for us children.
She was responsible for broken zippers.
However, she explained the whole thing to me once, and then I had to do it myself. What was absolutely no fun for me back then, however, as I was decades younger.
We don't have any charity shops here, which I think is a shame.
About the buttons: I also have a decent collection of buttons, which I look at from time to time. And .... sliding your hands through the buttons has an absolutely relaxing effect.
I also have a small collection of beautiful mother-of-pearl buttons, which I love very much.
So, to the end: cheers for all repaired holes, sewn-on pockets, patched hems and sewn-in zippers.
How about a "Vivi's Sewing Bee ....." - but then with at least five episodes a week. (Hahahaaaa ..... you have sooooo much time, you can easily do it!)
Big hug, my sewing friend
Claudia
Oooooooooh, Mother-of-Pearl buttons........gorgeous.....I had a huge collection at one time but started using them all on gifts I was making and now I have none.......need to hunt for some more. Happy memories. :-)
Vivi you are so talented, I have taken jackets to the dry cleaners to replace invisible zips and have been so disappointed, so much that the jackets went in the bin when I got home. Before you say it, I know it’s such a waste of money. I have learnt my lesson now, they can’t do invisible zips. I wish I had paid more attention to my mum, she could create a garment from nothing.
Ooooh, never again......you can learn to do it.....trust me! :-)
I'd love to see more dress making as my skills are basic lol, you're inspiring me to get my sewing in check lol. I've got basic skills, I have a sewing machine but hardly use it. x
I just found your channel and your enthusiasm is highly infectious in a good way, not all viral Covid at all! I feel so free and easy as I listen to you and see your beautiful smile and indomitable spirit! Wow! You go girl! 💐
Hi Vivi,
I love your channel. It gives me so much inspiration. You are totally amazing.
Like the books you read about the Yukon . I have lived in the Yukon, NWT and Nunavut where we order our groceries for the whole year in the Spring to arrive in the Autumn by barge. I lived their for 9 years living with the Inuit and it was one of the best time of my life. Take care.
Wow, what an amazing adventure that must have been......I wouldn't last five minutes in that cold! 😊
I used to doing some sewing, but now it's mostly just making a simple curtain here and there or doing a little T-shirt mending. That's about all I wear these days -- shorts and T-shirts with wildlife pictures on them (mostly black bears). Lots of good info here, though, Vivi! Good to see you got some great deals!
Yay for shorts and t-shirts! :-)
Hi viv. Im a big charity shop shopper. Very rarely buy new. However i never considered altering/mending items. Next time i go i shall be thinking differently. Inspired me with my gardening and now with me fashion lol. 😀 always enjoy your vids. Take care. P.S hope u do some sewing vids in winter. It will help keep me going during the long dark winter months. Lol. 😻
Yay! Go for it lovely. :-)
You' ve got a lovely calming voice
Aww, thank you Katharine. :-)
Great video! 👗👚
Your two new dresses are so pretty.👗
I love thrift shops , and most of my clothes are from there.
I always look for good quality older clothes there, they last much longer.
I often alter things, albeit not too professionally!
Ours are not open yet; can’t wait to see what’s there when they do.
We have two nearby, which benefit our local hospital and the hospice too. 🙂
(My best find ever was a very long black Aquascutum raincoat with a scarlet flannel lining; wore it a few years then donated it back.)
Ooooh, such great finds! Most of mine aren't open again yet and I'm missing them so much......and the lovely volunteers who work there. :-)
Great tips, Vivi, and not just for women.
I have an old sewing machine that I bought at a thrift store for $50. I use it for repairs.
Oooh, pockets. I bought some lounge pants and discovered it had no pockets when my keys dropped to the floor. Another pair of lounge pants ripped up the leg, not even on the seam. I may turn them into sleeping shorts and use the leg material to make some contrasting patch pockets for the other pair.
I'm wearing a shirt, right now, that's missing the top button. I'm not going to replace it, though, because I hate to be choked.
When you get tired of patching behind the lace yoke of that top, since the rest of it seems made of tougher material, maybe just make a pattern of the complete yoke and replace it.
~ Jon in rural BC, Canada
Yay for a pair of lounge pants becoming shorts and their hems becoming pockets for keys! Whoop, whoop, that's just my kind of thinking! :-)
I love to hear how others make do and mend. I have always repaired everything and especially love to do visible mending. I call it my Holly Hobbie/Pippi Longstocking look. :)
Oh I love that....gosh, I haven't heard of Holly Hobbie in years.....I was nuts about her when I was a kid! ❤
My charity shop will take rags because they can sell them, I only found out because I asked. Mothed, shrunken woollies? Compost if no other re-purposing. Thanks for the video, lots of food for thought,
It's definitely worth asking around........I can't bear the thought of any rags ending up in landfill. :-)
I love the fabric. Lavender grows here in the USA, Southern California year round. It’s wild along my waking path. So pretty.
Oh how lovely to have it growing wild......bliss.
I think many of your viewers shop second hand, including myself. I’m definitely not a fashion guru. I’d rather be comfortable and wear what fits my informal lifestyle. Those dreaded “skinny” jeans don’t work for a larger sized 62 y.o.! I have two formal dresses hanging in my closet each worn only once at weddings (daughters weddings, they picked them out). You gave me a great idea, use the material to make something else! Happy birthday Vivi !
Oh comfort over fashion any day of the week! Yay, have fun reinventing your formal dresses! :-)
Hi from Chicago. I only buy one or two new pieces of clothing in a year. Last year I bought a pair of shoes. This year I bought two long sleeve shirts. I collect
old buttons. People give me their old clothes. If I can't use them, I pass them on. I wear the worst clothes at home when cleaning. Beyond that, they are rags.
My kids always wore old clothes when they were young. Tina
The lavender fabric is so beautiful! Charity shops are much fun. I also like loose, comfortable clothing. I've always gone for comfort.
Your garment in need of much repair looks soooo comfy! I'm not skilled at sewing but would wear it as is at home :-) However, since you are making a pattern, you might do well selling them. I think it is a beautiful garment that many people would like.
Great tips Vivi, thank you!
Oh I'm just like you....it's all about the comfort..........and the pockets! ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext Yes! The pockets! I'm looking for some kind of garden tool belt now though, lol. I don't even want to think about what that will look like!!?
I get my best finds at church rummage sales, more reasonable prices.🌻
Oooh, yes, perfect! :-)
I have gone to a thrift store and on some days they would have clothes for $.50 cents (US dollars) lots of great finds when you’re patient wish you had one there!
Oh my goodness....the days of those prices round here are long gone....sadly. :-)
Our op shop have a button basket. I think they cut buttons off donated clothes that can't be saved. I have bought many buttons there. I have also picked up very good clothes at op shop for my own use. My girls often have themed parties they attend and we go opshop hunting then. Another thing I get at opshops is craft items. I found a quilt top that was 90% finished there and finished it. I also found several cross stich patterns that I pass on to a friend who loves doing it. Then also there are sewing supplies I have found fat quarters and even rolls with 6 metres of fabric there, cotton thread, needles, bias tape, handles for handbags. I love op shop hunting. Most of the stuff is good a lot often come from deceased estates. Here in Australia it is very cheap sometimes you can get a whole bag for $6.
Oooooh, they sound like great finds....good on you! :-)
All my stuff comes from charity shops or car boot sales! At church we pass black bags of clothes between families once we are done with them! I have two jars of buttons that were my grandmothers! Some really old buttons in there! My eldest daughters wedding dress was even from a charity shop! I love the sewing challenge program!
Oh I LOVE this. :-)
Hi Vivi, you are a talent to be able to really repair your clothing to stretch their life. Good for you. One thing I do, is either get clothing from Garage Sales, and Thrift Stores, and also my Best Friend's Mom is 95 years young and when she doesn't want her tops anymore, she gives them to her daughter who gives them to me to either use myself or maybe sell at a yard sale. She has great taste and loves good colors, so, usually I can end up recieving two or three new tops in a couple of months. Like today, my Best Friend brought a bag with three tops in it for me to do what I would like...and Two of the Tops are lovely, and so I will wash them and wear them gladly. God Bless, Sherry :)
Oh they sound like great friends to have! Yay. :-)
24:27 to 32:26 Trigger warning for anyone with koumpounophobia.
I’ve always liked charity shops. Another good thing about them is that, sometimes the high street shops go through a phase of fashion/styles/shades/lengths/materials that would never look acceptable on me, but charity shops have a much wider range of styles, materials and colours all year round. Better chance of finding something that suits me, not the retailers.
I googled that word. Good tip. Lol
Hahha - I had to look up the word too....... ;-)
Loved this. Learned some valuable tips. Waxing threads for buttons...I never knew that. I would certainly enjoy more videos on sewing from you when you're able to. Very useful and interesting. Thankyou! R.
Hahaha - I think after the lesson you gave me on my sewing machine foot it should be you doing the tutorials! I'm going to have a play with that foot tomorrow. ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext I love that foot....it makes doing edges so easy.
Lovely update my friend for sharing have a good day and thank you for sharing
Thank you lovely. :-)
The tea's been brewed and I'm off to do some quilting. I've enjoyed my time with you today.
Aww, thank you lovely....I hope you had a happy, quiet, quilting session. 😊
Oh vivi, you should try out for the gbsb you would be so lovely on it! They would love you, then you might get your own tv show🤗 ok but you never know, what could happen. Yes please to some sewing lessons, loved this video, you are certainly an inspiring lady. I was going to buy a sewing machine recently, but what with troubling Financial Times and not being able to go and look, mind just as well, as I don’t think I can stretch to it now. Thank you lock down, although I have found amazon 😬😮. Do you what I have been interupted I have to get on now, don’t know what I have said already, but it’s all brill, you are brill, and thank you for your bothering to inform. Xx
Sewing machines are SO expensive now.......but you might be able to find a second hand, reconditioned one for a LOT less.......my first machine was such ( a 'Princess') and cost me all of £25 (in about 1989!!!). I love GBSB but I could NEVER sew under those time pressures......I marvel at their ability to do so! :-)
Loved this video! Have come away with lots of hints and tips and bursting with ideas! A few dressmaking videos over winter sounds like a brilliant idea.
Oh I'm so glad this has given you some useful ideas and tips. Yay! :-)
Great ideas! When I was in high school I would buy tops and change things about them or on one I added different colored buttons.
Yay - me too! :-)
Brilliant ideas Vivi! You are so very fortunate that you grew up with the knowledge of sewing. I have a sewing machine gifted to me by my late grandpa back when I took a sewing course at a local school. My talents are not nearly as extensive as yours but I can benefit from your clever ideas on how to do repairs! I love the buttons -as-style ideas. This comment is in reference to an older video
About mending and repairs ! Thanks loads! ❤️
Marilyn
USA x
Thank you lovely! I think the big thing with sewing.....like any other skill.....is to have fun with it and keep at it and keep learning. Oh, and also, some things go horribly wrong, but that's OK too......its all part of honing the skill. 😉
Thanks. Look forward to catching myself up with your “ past” as I await your current chats!!
Marilyn🌻
Love the linen dress. I was looking at something very similar to make a summer dress and it was 30 euros a metre and I needed 3 metres, xo I think you got a real bargain there.
Wowzers! That's one of the reasons I like to make over the charity shop finds......it's cheaper than buying fabric and a pattern! :-)
I love Shetland wool sweaters for winter. It does get quiet cold here in NE Texas for about 6-7 months of the year. Now to buy these lovely sweaters new cost about $100-200 a sweater here in the US. Our charity shops here just simply never have them for re-sale. The only thing I can surmise is women are just holding on to them and I can understand that. All of the lower priced department stores ( here) sell new but the winter things are thin and cheaply made and expensive. Much to thin for our winters. I wish I could knit but I don't. So I do buy very good quality winter attire. These sweaters and other woolen items such as pants etc.. will last for many years. Great video~ thank you. ~ Debbie
Ach, I wish I could knit too! A good set of thermals serves me well instead. 😉
You're such a clever, resourceful gal. My gran was a great seamstress and I remember my mum saying she could see a dress in a shop window and then go home, make up the pattern from memory and create one of her own. I hope you enjoy your bit of time off!
What lovely memories...... have similar.....and I owe it to them to keep y sewing going and share it. :-)
I like that you mend your clothing rather than simply throw them out which many people do. I'm curious how old the tops are that you will repair so I have some idea how long other people's clothes last. I tend to buy whatever I can find on low cost new as opposed to 2nd hand largely because I can never find what I want 2nd hand. My clothing lasts so long even with regular washing. The only repairs I tend to need are for lost buttons and sometimes seams that come undone because of poor workmanship. Instead of covering the eyelet lace on the sleeveless top it might be a better idea to look for some similar weight eyelet lace and replace the worn one. You could probably find some similar, inexpensive fabric somewhere. Anyway, just a thought. I'll be interested in seeing your repair once it's done. I really love the blue floral linen dress you bought at the charity shop. It's beautiful and you got a wonderful buy. One more tip about the missing button is to check the inside bottom of the blouse. Often there is a spare button there that the wearer did not cut off when they purchased. I never cut mine off. I leave them there in case I need it. It saves me from going through the buttons I have.
Hmmm, it's nigh on impossible to say how old the tops are that I need to repair as they were bought second hand so I don't know how long they had been worn for before me......but......I find I tend to wear things out in about three years.....I don't have many clothes so the things I do have tend to be worn at least once every week. :-)
@@WhatVivididnext thanks Vivi. That's helpful.
Loved this video! Lots of great tips there Vivi! I've been watching the Sewing Bee too & really enjoyed it - I liked he lady who wore the 1940's vintage look 😊
Yay - me too! :-)
You've inspired me Vivi to alter a couple of items in my wardrobe that I haven't worn for ages- thank you! 💚
Yay! Good on you. :-)
I love buttons too. I have memories of my grandmother's button jars. At out thrift stores in USA, when there is a great sale on clothes, I often buy just for the buttons.
I've even seen a designer shirt with 2 different kinds of buttons on shirt, alternating the kinds. Cool design feature.
Oh me too....especially if they're pearly ones......I love a pearly button! :-)
Thanks Vivi! I almost threw out a blouse that was too long. Just forgot I could easily shorten it. And the idea of taking a favourite garment apart and making an identical one! Thank you so much!
Yay - go shorten it lovely! :-)
Beautiful fabric... Must go on eBay and search for similar fabrics. I love lavender 💙 😍❤️
PS: I was brought up with make do and mend, I wear things till they drop off me in the garden. So, I thought of buying duvet covers (charity shops) and cutting them up to make tops, skirts etcetera. I'm still in the process of deciding what to make first... But I'm thinking it might be a winter project 🤔 can't wait for the charity shops to re-open 👍
Oh duvets are a great source of fabric when you want lots for dress making. Happy reinventing lovely! :-)
@@WhatVivididnext
Thanks Vivi for giving me the inspiration 👏👍
Oh this is inspiring! My mom taught us to sew and I did dressmaking for friends when I was in school, so I could do most of this, but I haven’t your imagination or sense of fun. . .but I could maybe develop my skills again. Thank you for reawakening the joy of sewing and mending. And that jacket and oh my, that linen dress!!! Gorgeous!
Yay! Go for it lovely!!! And enjoy! 😁
Hey vivi, great video pls do a follow up video on the new shirt your making from the pattern, would love to see the end result xx
Will do lovely......it may be a while off though....the garden keeps distracting me. ;-)
Thanks Vivi, love your videos...I'm so envious of your skills :)
Cheers lovely......hahaha, no great skills here but a lifetime of practice. ;-)
Oh, Vivi, this was such great content, I loved it! I’ve been so busy outside and dealing with processing a million tart cherries, no time for sewing. I walk past my sewing room and look longingly at the quilt I want to work on. I do shop here in the states at our thrift stores for clothes. I tend not to buy things that need repair, but I have done pretty much every type of repair you mentioned. I love the dress and jacket you found, great shopping skills! Thanks!
Ahhhhh.......our sewing rooms are languishing........but only because we're having so much joy outside......by winter our sewing rooms will come into their own again......embrace the seasons. :-)
Vivi, have you ever tried to sew a silk ribbon on the inside of a seam area that is getting thin? You can also use a strip of double over clothe the same way. It makes the seam stronger.
Excellent tip - yes! :-)
The apron idea from the blouse was great. The blouse front was beautiful.
Thank you lovely.
lovely video
Cheers chuck. :-)
Ooo love a charity shop. Car boot sales are brilliant for picking up craft items, duvets snd sheets for backing bunting and sometimes clothes are a £1 each! I buy things and sell them on eBay sometimes. The charity shops where I live are quite expensive. When I visit my friend in a different part of the town, we got to the charity shops and they are much cheaper. It may be worth going a bit further afield. Love the video.
It's so expensive around here.....but it also costs to go further afield.......but......when I visit my great aunt I always have a bit of a rummage in her shops and nearly always find a fab bargain! I'm looking forward to being able to get back to my routine of seeing her each week.......and her charity shops. ;-)
I've been crocheting for some years now but sewing has always scared me a bit. I never seem to get on with my machine. I've had a few reasonably successful goes, but then I put away the machine and the fear returns. I've recently got it out again to make some cloth face masks - I even made my own pattern. I've also discovered English paper piecing as a wonderful meditative pastime (well, when the kittens will let me!) So I think I'm finally beginning to get the sewing bug. I've always patched my jeans but I think I might have a go at some of my old tops 😀
Yay for the sewing bug biting you in the backside! Hahaha, go with it lovely. :-)
We also have donated to the charity shop,nice watching and listening too
Good on you. :-)
Hi Vivi! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! 🎈🎉🎂❤️
Great video, good stuff! ☺️ I hope you enjoyed your tennis, tea and got your mending done. Until next time, be well.😉💗💗💗
Oh yes I did, thank you! :-)
Enjoyed this Vivi, love your Betty Jackson jacket, too. I’m inspired to tidy/pimp up my clothes now as I’ve lost 16lbs in lockdown by eating once a day and can fit into some of my old garments. It’s refreshing to see you get so much use of your clothes . I use end of life fabric pieces as pressing rags, esp when pressing white garments because my iron is a spitter!
Wow, that's fabulous....you must feel so much better for it! I need to lose a load too but find it harder these days as I can't move as much or as quickly because of stupid pain.
I used to volunteer in the british heart fountaion in edinburgh,it was hard work
Good on you lovely. :-)
( Supermarket reduced rack are brilliant too... ) Last week while doing neighbours shopping... picked up a little cotton blouse for less than I would have paid in a charity shop.(£4) and sometimes in charity shop 50p bins you may find horrible garments with lovely buttons... I chop off the buttons and re cycle the fabric.
Oh I'm totally with you on the bargain bin garments just for the buttons! :-)
You always seem to amaze me! I am so happy to know you are a think outside of the box person too. I look at things and more than not think, I can use it in a different way. Just today I recycled soda bottles to plant in and a couple mushroom containers too.
Yay - good on you lovely! :-)
Happy birthday!
Thank you! :-)
Petrichor - the smell of after rain falls. One of my favourite smells.
Oh yes! One of mine too. 😊
Oh excellent word! Thank you 🙏
I loved this video. The shirt button trick, brilliant. I haven't bought a new item of clothes in so long, (underwear is my exception, lol). My second hand shops are so good. I don't think I've spent more than about $5 CAD for anything in a couple of years. I even keep jeans to use as patch fabric, lol.
Girl after my own heart! :-)
Thank you for sharing your hints and tips on clothing. I love a bargain so can't wait to have a rummage around my local charity shops. Take care, Vivi. Warmest wishes. Jan x
Ooooh, I can't wait for the rest of them to open so I can get back to the joy of rummaging! ;-)
Really enjoyed this chat Vivi, got the wheels turning.
Oh that's fabulous, thank you! :-)
I love your cabinet of fabrics. Love the lavenders!
Yay! Thank you lovely....it's like my ever changing paint box.....sometimes, if I'm feeling really down and tired....I pull out a few fabrics to simply enjoy their patterns and colours.....it always works a treat at cheering me up. 😊
Happy (belated) Birthday🍾🌼🎈
Thankyou Rachel. :-)
I love charity shops. I always buy cards and books.
Love your shirt!
Oooh, yes to the books! :-)
For the broderie anglais yoke top you could apply vertical, appliqué strips to cover the holes (inside and out to prevent the holes getting worse).
Yes, I'm thinking something similar........hahah, I still haven't got around to it though!
Great tips Vivi! Happy sewing.
Cheers lovely. :-)