Thursday, May 05, 2016

Using Vintage Textile For Craft Projects

By Catherine Nelson


The saying that goes what is old becomes new again definitely applies to apparel and home decor styles. Then again, going retro can bring a new look to any outfit or furnishing. Vintage textile fabric can give new meaning to repurposing clothes or other items.

While some texture patterns never go out of style, some may be associated with a time period that is be considered classic, funky, or romantic. Fashion, for some, is a form of self-expression and it often reflects in their style of dress or how they choose to decorate their home. Whether vibrant hues or earthy tones, color often says something about personal taste.

Most fabrics, in general, are versatile and works magic with any clothing ensemble or living space. In some cases, fabric can be used to create a new look without sewing skills. Anyone with a creative eye can transform anything with fabric glue and a pair of ordinary scissors.

For instance, a couple feet of vintage fabric can be easily made into a scarf, a simple skirt or tank top that can be worn with a number of outfits. Small or leftover strips can be made into a headband, holder or flower pin that complements a jacket or button down shirt. Fabric pieces can also be made into beads for jewelry.

A yard of fabric cut lengthwise and sewn together to make a wraparound belt. A couple of yards can be made into a simple skirt in less than an hour. Anyone who is handy with a sewing machine and knows how to use a pattern can construct a button down shirt with short or long sleeves.

Mixing the old with the new is less expensive than buying new. Shirts or bottoms may benefit from the makeover. For the person who enjoy renovating old clothes, it may be worthy to learn how to use a sewing machine. These are fairly inexpensive, lasts longer than fabric glue and saves time.

There are many different ways that fabric can be used to accentuate any living space. Twisted pieces of fabric can be used to hold drapes, napkins and other pieces of fabric. It may also accentuate curtains, hardware or formed to make a piece of functional artwork.

Fabrics that have unique illustrations, patterns or colors may be used as wall art or as a table cloth. There are many online tutorials that can show how to make these so they will adhere to a surface and be reinforced to withstand daily use. Fabric care instructions can also be found online, including antique collection websites.

With the exception of cotton or blended materials, care is best left up to the professionals. For the best results, these fabrics should only be washed by hand or if a machine is used, the setting is for delicate only. By using care, these textiles can be admired for years to come.




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