DIY Steampunk.....Help!

[lolilolilou]

Is anyone experienced with making clothes who could help me with a project?

I LOVE victorian/gothic/lolita/steampunk clothes but i am on a tiny student budget. I have a sewing machine and a bit of experience but i want to learn to make my own costumes.

I have tried looking for commercial patterns and have found some but i want to learn how to make the things i like from scratch. What is the best way to start? Any good books or blogs etc for inspiration or learning techniques?

I'm thinking bustle skirts, corset tops, armlets, hats etc

You should definitely visit this site Craftster is brilant.

Go to COMMUNITY and click on CLOTHING there are sections for all kinds of things including tutorials....and the users are so helpful. Lots there who seem to like Steampunk...there's a tute for a steampunk vest on the page I've linked to.

As a beginer you may find it easiest to begin with customising things rather than trying to sew entire outfits...that can come later.

Ooh I did a search for you there and here are the results.

oooo this has kept me busy for ages

thats you mrsmushroom you are marvellous

yes that is just the sort of thing i was after! I'll hopefully have some new stuff to show off soon!

Thank you mushroom

I love Craftster because it's a bit like MN in that the community is very nice..they have regular swaps and competitions too.