Found an old silk sari, what shall I make?!

[HighDudgeonAtBerks]

I’ve been digging through some old boxes and have found a sari that I bought 20 years ago (pictures attached) back when I was young and carefree. I’m relatively new to dress making and YouTube has been my teacher to date.

I would love to make a fabulous evening dress out of what I guess is chiffon (I’m not that good on fabrics, but I’m pretty sure I bought it as silk).

I’m tall and slim-ish, and love simple, elegant designs but I’m more than a bit worried that I’ll screw it all up.

What do I need to know? What should I line it with? Does anyone have any pointers for a pattern? Am I right that it’s chiffon?

Ive got 4m so I might try making a camisole or something first to make all my mistakes on a smaller piece.

All and any hints or tips very welcome

Bump

How about a slim skirt and a matching camisole - so you can wear them as a dress or put them on with other things - maybe gives you more options ?

So long skirt and matching top - this is not as slim as I was thinking and not sure how much material it takes but if you google patterns - I am sure you will find one www.etsy.com/uk/listing/510319335/6-gore-longmaxi-flared-skirt-sewing?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_uk_en_gb_c-craft_supplies_and_tools-other&utm_custom1=k_Cj0KCQjw0K-HBhDDARIsAFJ6UGir9ptRDwGCDVNIxR1bmI5EpvZZJXHCoyg_mYwkfyY_re0BiBxZV5IaAumrEALw_wcB_k&utm_content=go_325939368_20231685168_88477486128_pla-106551294035_c__510319335engb_116295401&utm_custom2=325939368&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0K-HBhDDARIsAFJ6UGir9ptRDwGCDVNIxR1bmI5EpvZZJXHCoyg_mYwkfyY_re0BiBxZV5IaAumrEALw_wcB

That’s a great idea! I hadn’t even considered making an outfit rather than a single piece!

How big is the fabric? Enough for a floaty maxi dress?

I've made pattern A before and it's lovely. Maybe not for a novice though.

The Truebias Ogden Cami is a great pattern with loads of potential to hack and change up - extend into a cami dress, or add a gathered skirt. Look for the hashtag on Instagram for some inspiration

Well I was going to suggest silk pillowcases; but clearly you are more skilled than I am.

I think silk saris are meant to be spot cleaned not washed. I made the mistake of making trousers from sari silk and when I washed them they shrank and we’re far too tight! The next project I washed the silk in tepid water first which worked fine. I made a kimono top which I’m really pleased with and if it does shrink it will still fit.

@justchecking1

How big is the fabric? Enough for a floaty maxi dress?

I've made pattern A before and it's lovely. Maybe not for a novice though.

This is one of the patterns I was looking at! I’m not a complete novice, but haven’t tried such a floaty silk before. I do love this pattern.

@Slacktacular I will definitely look at this. I think either way I should make something more manageable first to get a feel for it.

I’ve got about 5 metres I think. Washing will definitely be an issue.

With any scraps you have left you can make lovely gift bags

@Oblahdeeoblahdoe

With any scraps you have left you can make lovely gift bags

That’s a fab idea! I certainly don’t want to waste any of it!

I have a gorgeous kimono jacket made from sari silk.

Kimono is another great idea. I’m so glad I posted!

@Slacktacular

The Truebias Ogden Cami is a great pattern with loads of potential to hack and change up - extend into a cami dress, or add a gathered skirt. Look for the hashtag on Instagram for some inspiration

I’ve downloaded the pattern and am going to start by making the cami. It looks nice and straightforward and just the sort of thing I love to wear