Make it Fit: Alerations 101

By |2026-05-14T08:34:35-04:00May 14th, 2026||

Learn the basics of garment alterations for a better fit. This class covers basic tools, common alterations, how to read drag and pill lines, pin-to-fit method, and when DYI vs take it to pro. Must know how to use a sewing machine. Bring your alterations, bring your machine or borrow one of ours.

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Let’s get 1950s Witchy in a Skater Dress

By |2025-09-25T17:16:22-04:00September 25th, 2025|1950s Style Fashion|

15 years ago, I made this 1950s skater dress. The “skater dress” is named for its A-line silhouette, narrower at the top and flaring out at the bottom, like the dresses worn by figure skaters. While modern skater dresses don’t typically involve figure skating, according to a Google search, the connection began with figure skating […]

Alien Twinning Dress

By |2025-09-10T17:54:14-04:00September 10th, 2025|1950s Style Fashion, Art made by Tracy McElfresh, Tracy Designs Dresses, Uncategorized|

I started drafting flat pattern blocks so I wouldn’t have to fiddle with the fit on commercial garments. With this, I have truly been challenged and had the opportunity to make one garment, including muslins, up to seven times before I got the fitting right. I have learned even more about my body shape and […]

Sewing Machine Basics Class, Rosewood Art Center, Kettering

By |2026-04-30T07:50:53-04:00December 28th, 2023||

Learn to use your sewing machine or borrow one of Rosewood's in a fun setting. Students review threading, stitches, tension, bobbins, bobbin winding, parts of the machine, accessories and trouble shooting. Students have 2 easy practice projects to learn seam allowance, precision, stitch lengths and widths. Students should bring, small sewing kit, thread and machine (optional). 04-41342-B June 2, 6 pm- 8 pm

Fall Sew in/ Fabric/ Pattern/ Craft Swap 2023

By |2023-08-09T06:54:06-04:00August 9th, 2023||

Mark your Calendars for our next meet up. Bring a dish to share or food for yourself if you like. Bringing a craft or sewing project is also optional. Remember you may bring your craft stuff or supplies to give away although if no one takes your things you have take them back.
This group is […]

Patchwork Panel Dress Design

By |2019-10-21T06:35:51-04:00October 21st, 2019|1920s Style Fashion, Costumes, Tracy Designs Dresses, Uncategorized|

Going local can really push you to your limits if you make clothing. In our town we have a lot of awesome indie quilt shops and no fashion fabric shops.

Last June, while our roof was getting replaced, we took a trip to North Dayton and I got to visit Bernina on North Main. […]

The 30 Minute Dress

By |2019-09-16T06:12:21-04:00September 16th, 2019|1980s Fashion, Fashion Dress Replicas, Makes of 2016, refashion, Tracy Designs Dresses, Uncategorized|

This is one of the easiest dresses I have ever made on my serger! Don’t despair if you do not have a serger you can use your sewing machine with the zig zag stitch and it will work fine.  Here is how I did it…..

Tracy sews the 30 minute dress Kettering

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