Hi Everyone! Welcome back! In Part 2 Shari continues the Fairy Tale theme with a look at sewing cartridge pleating in her designs. Here's more from Shari...
Our Cinderella story, takes place during the Renaissance period and because it was at this time that high fashion began, it makes sense that there is so much emphasis on the three beautiful gowns she was given to attract the attention of her charming prince.
The art and literature that developed during the Renaissance idealized the human body which naturally led to the transformation of ladies fashion from simply draped tunics that covered the body to highly structured gowns that accentuated the body.
One of the most notable changes was the addition of a waistline which allowed for a neatly fitted bodice with a very full attached skirt that defined the feminine silhouette.
The heavy fabrics that were used for gowns at this time made it difficult to gather the skirting along the waistline without creating a thick ridge of fabric which was not only uncomfortable but also marred the smooth surface of the bodice. The answer to this problem was cartridge pleats, and I am going to show you how to make them on my three Cinderella gowns.
Cartridge pleats are made by drawing up two or more symmetrical rows of running stitches into a neat little row of closely spaced pleats. Unlike other pleats, these pleats are not pressed flat and sewn into a seam, but stand up, much like the pleats in smocking, and are tacked along the finished edge of seams.
This method is not only eye catching, but also allows for an enormous amount of fabric to be gathered into a small space with minimal bulk in the seam.
Follow along in the video to see how Shari has finished her bodices and incorporated the cartridge pleating into her skirting.
In the video you will see the Happily Ever After Gown and the Hampton Court Gown patterns being featured. Both gowns can be sewn with the cartridge pleating technique.
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Geoorgianne
April 21, 2024
I never enjoyed hand sewing before, but watching Sheri has me trying new techniques. Thank you for inspiring me.