Which Stitch Markers Are Best

When I first took up crochet I didn't have any stitch markers, I didn't even know stitch markers existed. It wasn't long before I knew about them and I learnt the value of using stitch markers, aka stitch savers. That first frustrating experience of when a project accidentally unravels because there's nothing holding onto the stitch to stop it coming undone or your crochet circle grows in ways it isn't supposed to and the worth of this tiny tool became obvious very quickly. But there are so many styles of stitch marker to choose from, locking, circle, coil-less, plastic, safety pins, thread, 3D printed... does it really make a difference which one you use? Is it just how pretty they are? I walk you through a dozen different stitch markers from items you have lying around your home to the fancy artisan styles. I share with you what features to look for and those that don't really hold up to the task.
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Plans For Big Froufy

Big Froufy Gown
Last year I started making my Big Froufy gown. It's purpose was threefold.

  • To use up my synthetic fabrics.
  • To toile up a pattern to get the fit and construction right and try a few decorative designs to see which ones I liked the effect of.
  • To have something to wear at the Guildford Heritage Festival.
It almost did all of those things, accept that I ran out of time and I had to take a lot of short cuts.
The corset I made to wear with it was also just a mock up and needs several changes so therefore I was unable to fit the gown bodice correctly.

This year I will be a stall holder at the Festival and I intend to go in costume again. Over the next few weeks we'll be revisiting this costume and either finishing it the way it should have been done the first time or transforming it into an 1880's gown.

I am beginning with foundation garments, particularly a chemise and corset.

Last year the corset pattern I used was by Marna Davis from the Working Corded Corset housed at Kingfisher Chisholm Trail Museum dated to 1889-1899, but considered plausible for as early as mid 1870's.

And while I would still like to re-make that corset and refine the fit and construction ,I have decided this year to make a pattern for a corset that is more appropriate for the gown. How that works out will determine what happens next to Big ol' Froufy.

Hopefully she'll get finished and I can make her with some beautiful fabric.

Comments

  1. Ana Love Craft24 February 2016 at 19:46

    Wow! I think you did a fantastic job! Your Big Froufy gown is absolutely wonderful! Love it so much! Thanks for sharing it!
    Enjoy the rest of your week!
    Hugs and love from Portugal,
    Ana Love Craft
    www.lovecraft2012.blogspot.com

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    Replies
    1. Purfylle25 February 2016 at 08:43

      Thanks Ana, I hope for it to have some serious improvements this year.

      Delete
  2. Jenny Guldin24 February 2016 at 21:24

    There are so many layers to those old gowns. What a neat project to take on!

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    Replies
    1. Purfylle25 February 2016 at 08:44

      I'm not sure why it is I start these projects so late and give myself such little time to work on them.

      Delete
  3. Jenny Evans25 February 2016 at 06:08

    Wow! This is amazing!

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    Replies
    1. Purfylle25 February 2016 at 08:44

      There's still an long way to go until this is properly finished.

      Delete
  4. PurpleSlob27 February 2016 at 10:08

    You are one PATIENT woman!!
    How did they not DIE of heat stroke????

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  5. Debbie27 February 2016 at 13:46

    Hi Stella, making a Froufy gown is a project and a half. I have never been a seamstress (much to Mother's disappointment), but can appreciate how much work how much time and effort goes into making it (my Mum, Auntie and Uncle can all do amazing things with a bit of fabric, a needle and thread).

    xx

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  6. Mary K.28 February 2016 at 18:42

    This looks like so much fun! Stella I admire your determination and talent. Can't wait to see you all dressed up.

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