May Martin on working with Sequins

In the second instalment of sewing tips from celebrity sewing expert May Martin we learn how she tackles the tricky challenge of working with sequins. Take it away May…

• For this glamorous dress I used the Newlook pattern number 6261. (click here for pattern)
• I mounted my fabric on lining to add stability. The fabric and lining are then constructed as one.
• When laying the pattern pieces on this lovely fabric make sure to position them all in the same direction so that the sequins all shimmer the same way.
• Most fabrics are cut double with the right side on the inside. This fabric needs to have the sequins facing you as they have a tendency to catch on each other the other way round.
• I used some really sharp dressmaking pins, fine hand sewing needles plus I treated my sewing machine to a new fine needle.
• Cut out with really sharp shears.
• Tack EVERYTHING as the fabric moves.
• Press as you go positioning a muslin over your seams. I also used a seam roll to prevent impressions.
• I hand sewed all my hems and used the lining to bind my seam edges.