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Have you come across an outfit that's just too expensive for you?  Why not give sewing a try? It might be a bit challenging, but the process can be fascinating, and even if the result isn't perfect, there's a great feeling of accomplishment in making something yourself. And if you lack inspiration, this post might be just what you're looking for! 

Take a look at the r/sewing subreddit, a place for those enjoying the art of needle and thread. It has over 1.1 million members, and the community is all about sharing photos of their amazing creations, including machine sewing, embroidery, quilting, hand sewing, and more!

While you're scrolling through, give an upvote to your favorite sewing projects. And if you have any nice compliments or feel like sharing some sewing tips, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!

#1

Vest And Pants I Made For Prom

Vest And Pants I Made For Prom

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Kimbowa
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice. I like how fitted the vest is and it all looks extremely well made. The pants are perfect and love the shoes! All around great job imo!

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#2

Here's A Little Constellation Bat I Just Made 🦇✨

Here's A Little Constellation Bat I Just Made 🦇✨

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#3

Made An Account So I Could Post A Sewing Project I Was Really Happy With

Made An Account So I Could Post A Sewing Project I Was Really Happy With

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Created in 2011, the subreddit “Sewing” became a treasure trove for needle and thread enthusiasts around the world. Whether it's a one-of-a-kind clothing piece or adorable toys, the subreddit is full of inspiration and excitement for anyone interested in sewing and crafts. It has grown into a supportive hub where both beginners and experienced crafters come together to exchange tips and ideas.

We were lucky enough to get in touch with Tristian Laney, a 19-year-old designer from Detroit, Michigan and Marvelous Mba, a designer and a founder of the 1622 brand, whose designs were also included in this list, to share their experiences and journey with sewing. Scroll down to read the whole interview!

#4

Made Myself This Coat To Represent My Lineage And My Pride

Made Myself This Coat To Represent My Lineage And My Pride

mrfabulousdesigns Report

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Marvelous Mba shared that originally, he named his brand "Afrykanized" to blend African ankara fabric's vibrancy with modern jeans, creating a fusion that's uniquely "Afrykanized." However, he recently felt the urge to broaden his designs beyond just African prints. “I didn't want anyone to feel excluded just because of the name. So, after some deep thought, I settled on ‘1622’ as the new brand name. It's a special tribute to my two kids, whose birth years are 2016 and 2022. They've been such an inspiration in my life, and this new name reflects that growth and inclusivity.”

#7

Made This Wool Knit Set… Plus A Matching Sweater For My Pup!

Made This Wool Knit Set… Plus A Matching Sweater For My Pup!

Notta_Basic_Stitch Report

#8

Some Of You Had Asked To See The Outcome Of The Strawberry Dress After All My Questions…. Voila!!!

Some Of You Had Asked To See The Outcome Of The Strawberry Dress After All My Questions…. Voila!!!

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#9

My Latest Project/I Made A New Outfit From Thrifted Jeans & Red Fabric

My Latest Project/I Made A New Outfit From Thrifted Jeans & Red Fabric

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Tristian Laney is attending Michigan State University for Apparel Design and Theatre Costuming. He has spent his entire life sewing and has created a niche in the fashion and theatre scene for out-of-the-box designs with exaggerated silhouettes and experimental textiles. The designer shared that he got started with sewing because of his mother. “As far back as I can remember, there was a sewing machine in our basement. She started teaching me with small hand sewing projects and it has snowballed from there. Beginning with pillowcases and stuffed animals to now, couture gowns and 60 costume theater productions.”

Laney is also a founder of the “Overgrown Apparel” brand. He shared that the journey of the brand started in 2019 as a mix of vintage and upcycled clothes. The designer would take thrifted materials and update them with different fabrics and designs to make one-of-a-kind pieces. “As I entered college, I began to realize there was a much larger market for the style of clothing I was interested in creating than I originally thought. This led me to take a turn with my brand. The meaning behind the name ‘Overgrown Apparel’ is twofold: first, I wanted to evoke the feeling of nature and wild freedom. Sustainability is a huge aspect of my work and with it, the freedom to dress how you want to, regardless of the situation. This lends itself to my second meaning, I want to take the societal expectations of avant-garde clothing and outgrow that box even more. I now use the brand to sell the designs I make myself with a focus on fun and unique one-of-a-kind pieces.”

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#10

I Made An Early 1900s Ballgown Inspired By John Singer Sargent Paintings (Self Drafted)

I Made An Early 1900s Ballgown Inspired By John Singer Sargent Paintings (Self Drafted)

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#11

I Made My Dog And Myself Matching Coats For My Irl Cake Day

I Made My Dog And Myself Matching Coats For My Irl Cake Day

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Just like Laney, Marvelous Mba uses vintage clothes to create unique pieces. Originally from Nigeria, Marvelous Mba's sewing journey began just two years ago in Poland. Remarkably, he acquired all his sewing skills through online YouTube tutorials, an avenue that opened up a world of discovery and learning for him. “I'm still honing my sewing skills. But the thrill of creating something unique and one-of-a-kind has kept me going,” the designer shared.

We were wondering what inspired Marvelous Mba to create clothes from used jeans found in thrift stores. The designer replied that it’s the thrift store treasure hunt. “It all began when I decided to customize my jean jacket. After that, I couldn't resist the urge to design and sew more pieces. To make it more budget-friendly and eco-conscious, I started exploring thrift stores for used jeans. It's not only great for the environment, but you can find some real gems there too!

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As for inspiration, I love staying up to date with fashion trends. The beauty of working with thrifted jeans is that it challenges me to think on my feet and adjust my designs based on what I have. So, there's a certain spontaneity to it. I don't usually sketch my outfits beforehand; I have a mental picture of how I want it to turn out, and as I'm sewing, I make those creative decisions on the fly. It's so much fun!”

#14

I Was Getting Supplies For A Practical Project…but Then I Saw This Fabric ✨

I Was Getting Supplies For A Practical Project…but Then I Saw This Fabric ✨

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#15

Tried Drafting A Bell Sleeve Wrap Top - And Made It Reversible

Tried Drafting A Bell Sleeve Wrap Top - And Made It Reversible

Infamous-Cat-8370 Report

Looking at all the designs Tristan Laney created, we got curious about how he comes up with design ideas. The artist shared that a lot of the designs he creates are inspired by media he’s consumed in his life. “This includes music, movies, TV, and books. Bands like Tally Hall and MIKA and shows like The Muppets have provided me with endless fuel for my creative brain to run wild.

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My design process usually begins with a spark from one of these sources. I may be inspired by a scene or texture in a film or even a perfectly blended harmony. From there, I begin my sketching process, creating multiple designs with the ideas in mind. After that, I start searching for textiles to draw from to make my final garment.”

#16

Made A Dress For My Daughter! (Self-Drafted)

Made A Dress For My Daughter! (Self-Drafted)

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#17

Prom Dress Is Finally Finished

Prom Dress Is Finally Finished

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Dana J
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Can someone please put a heart over the face its throwing me off 😐

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#18

My Handmade Belle Gown. Detailed Description In The Comments

My Handmade Belle Gown. Detailed Description In The Comments

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xolitaire
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How does every single fan-made Belle gown look so much better than what we got in the life action movie? Beautiful!

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“Some of the things I enjoy most about the art of sewing include the ability to let the world fall away as I create. I’m allowed to forget about personal and external hardships and let my energy flow into what I’m creating. Seeing something I’ve taken from an idea to a physical piece can still shock me sometimes as well but my favorite part about sewing is seeing the look on the face of my client when they try on an item they truly fell in love with. Whether that’s an actor putting on a costume that lets them fall into their role or a model spinning around to let a dress fan out, the joy that fashion can bring is what I always work toward,” Laney shared what he enjoys the most about the art of sewing.

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For Marvelous Mba, sewing is pure joy. “I absolutely love the creative process from start to finish. Coming up with fresh ideas, designing a unique outfit, and watching it come alive under the sewing machine – it's a feeling like no other! And you know what's even more exciting? The fact that I'm still learning as I go. So, sometimes, I surprise myself with what I can create. Accessorizing the final outfit is like adding the cherry on top! The whole experience is just so fulfilling and keeps me motivated to keep learning and growing.”

#19

Had A Big Day, Made A Dress To Conquer It

Had A Big Day, Made A Dress To Conquer It

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#21

Wwii Era Coat - Vintage Sewing Pattern Company, Clara Cape Coat

Wwii Era Coat - Vintage Sewing Pattern Company, Clara Cape Coat

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After being asked if there are any outfits that stand out as personal favorites for Laney, the designer replied that he loves all of his pieces equally, but of course, he does have his favorites. “My tin can dress is probably my favorite of recent. The hours spent working on it have bonded me to it in a way that’s different from other pieces I’ve worked on. Other favorites of mine include the Ugg corset, the Angel tapestry skirt, and the costumes I design for Alice in Wonderland.”

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#22

I Made A Two Piece Set For My Textiles Major Work

I Made A Two Piece Set For My Textiles Major Work

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#24

Made A Dress And Matching Bag For An Award Event And I Am So Proud

Made A Dress And Matching Bag For An Award Event And I Am So Proud

Mia_muggins Report

1622 clothes feature a wonderful blend of artistry and sustainability. “In today's world, eco-conscious fashion and upcycling play a vital role in tackling the pressing environmental and social issues that plague the fashion industry,” Marvelous Mba shared. “These movements are not just trends; they're a necessary response. Think about it: every time we purchase a piece of clothing, we are indirectly contributing to resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation. Eco-conscious fashion steps in to break this cycle of environmental damage. But it's not just about the production process; it's also about raising awareness among consumers. When people are informed about the consequences of their clothing choices, they can make more responsible decisions. This shift in consumer behavior is essential to driving the fashion industry towards a more sustainable and ethical path.

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Upcycling, on the other hand, is a beautiful way of giving new life to discarded materials. Instead of adding waste, creative designers can turn old garments or fabrics into something fresh and exciting. It's like a dance of creativity, where the designer repurposes and reimagines, bringing new stories and experiences to life through each upcycled piece.

Together, eco-conscious fashion and upcycling offer a pathway towards a fashion industry that is not only environmentally friendly but also socially just. These movements are not just about clothing; they symbolize our collective effort to protect the planet and care for one another. As we embrace eco-conscious fashion and upcycling, we take a step closer to a future where style and conscience go hand in hand. Together, we can make a lasting positive impact on the world, one eco-friendly garment at a time.”

#25

My Second Project: Pizza Shirt! Still Hooked

My Second Project: Pizza Shirt! Still Hooked

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For some last words, we asked Laney if he has any advice or tips for beginners who are interested in sewing and design. “The biggest advice I like to give to people who are just starting out with sewing is to let go of the fear of mistakes and just do it,” Laney replied. “You will make mistakes and continue to mess up but that should never stop you from doing something you want to do. Your ideas might not work, but what if they do? There’s no one watching over your shoulder waiting for you to mess up, so try to let go of the fear of judgment.”

Find unique and eco-friendly fashion at Overgrown Apparel and 1622. They offer one-of-a-kind pieces that are creative and sustainable.

Check out Laney's portfolio, and follow him on Instagram and TikTok for updates. For Marvelous Mba's 1622 designs, visit his Instagram and TikTok pages. Explore the world of fashion and creativity with them!

#28

Finally Finished Wool Coat - Just In Time For Summer

Finally Finished Wool Coat - Just In Time For Summer

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Eva Kašu
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don´t be afraid, winter is coming anyways and that is a really nice coat

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#29

I Made A Mushroom Skirt!

I Made A Mushroom Skirt!

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#31

My Newest Make! Sewed And Modified From Two Thrifted Pillowcases

My Newest Make! Sewed And Modified From Two Thrifted Pillowcases

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#32

Made Her Some Dino Nuggets With Squeakers Inside

Made Her Some Dino Nuggets With Squeakers Inside

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#33

1960's "Space Age" Inspired Dress. All Fabrics From Stash, I Used Vogue 1822

1960's "Space Age" Inspired Dress. All Fabrics From Stash, I Used Vogue 1822

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#34

My Valentine's Dress ♥️

My Valentine's Dress ♥️

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CrazyCatLady
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love it, but how is that one side staying up? Am I just blind? What is happening!?!?

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#35

Finished Cloaks For My Neices

Finished Cloaks For My Neices

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#36

Self Drafted Dress From Thrifted Fabric

Self Drafted Dress From Thrifted Fabric

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#37

Gave Myself Early Onset Arthritis Making This Dress!

Gave Myself Early Onset Arthritis Making This Dress!

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Loverboy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's certainly something. I have to admire the amount of work that must've went into it

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#38

Iridescent Cat Jacket

Iridescent Cat Jacket

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Tamiko
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Back of the jacket (hopefully the image shows up, taken from the source). And for those asking, fabric came from etsy - "metallic red and blue iridescent woven with a black weft" image_2023...1e-png.jpg image_2023-07-26_173243601-64c14aaca0a1e-png.jpg

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#39

My First Sewing Project. Everything Went Wrong And Now It Looks Like A Baby Kangaroo

My First Sewing Project. Everything Went Wrong And Now It Looks Like A Baby Kangaroo

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Nonbinary Reptile
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So cute! It reminds me of a character that would have been in The Wuzzles.

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#40

I Made Jeans And Put My Sewing Machine On The Back Pocket

I Made Jeans And Put My Sewing Machine On The Back Pocket

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#41

A Barbie Dress For The Premiere!

A Barbie Dress For The Premiere!

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#42

Styling A Shirt And Pair Of Jeans I Made

Styling A Shirt And Pair Of Jeans I Made

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#45

Easy, Cheap Extension Table We Made For My Machine. (Got Idea Off Pinterest)

Easy, Cheap Extension Table We Made For My Machine. (Got Idea Off Pinterest)

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#47

Just Started Sewing And Now I Have A List Of People Who Want A Bag From Me

Just Started Sewing And Now I Have A List Of People Who Want A Bag From Me

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#48

Numberblocks 1-10 For My Daughter's School

Numberblocks 1-10 For My Daughter's School

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#49

Fashion Construction Competition So Happy I Finally Finished!

Fashion Construction Competition So Happy I Finally Finished!

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#50

I Recreated Christina Aguilera's Zigman Costume For Her 2022 La Pride Performance!

I Recreated Christina Aguilera's Zigman Costume For Her 2022 La Pride Performance!

lifewickedfast Report

Note: this post originally had 160 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.