Trying to work out how to save money, I thought I'd try my hand at something for the horses. Horse stuff always costs heaps, so I was keen to see if I could make it for cheaper. These tend to cost $20+. I bought some fabric for I think $8, and various bindings came to another $8. If we add in the cost of thread we're probably coming to about the $20 mark - but I bought enough bits & bobs to make 2 vests. I guess that makes it pretty good value to make rather than buy? If you have the time, anyway.
I made the shape by tracing a rug I had and then making some visual adjustments. I cut out the shape from another piece of junkmail (junkmail is my pattern drafting friend!). Then cut out the material, and sewed on the bindings:
Sewing the bindings was tricky to get tidy, but I think I learnt some things that will make it easier next time (I think pinning it was a waste of time really - quicker to just put it together as I was sewing). Then added front sash and loop to attach to the rug (which I machine stitched with the wheel, as the material was too thick to use the foot pedal and sew normally). Tried it on Neo and it fits!
Neo is very happy with his new gift... now I just need to make another one for Dee.
You could sell these on e-bay. I bought a custom-made hood on e-bay from a woman and it worked out well for both of us -- except that she smoked and I don't think the smell has ever left the fabric. She had it all sprayed up with fabric spray but that doesn't eliminate smoke saturation.
ReplyDeleteI hate to sew but can. It's fun to see somebody enjoying it.
I also don't find that it saves me money. I guess that's because I have to use a pattern and buy the fabric at retail. It does save money for curtains and such.