Do It Yourself for the Gown of Your Dreams

For some brides, the wedding gown of their dreams simply doesn't exist. For some wedding guests, neither does the perfect gift.

That's when knowing how to sew can come in handy.

The Perfect Gown

Although making a bridal gown may sound like a daunting task, there are patterns, specialized accessories and other resources that make it not only possible, but also the perfect way to get a one-of-a-kind gown that fits perfectly.

"Often, when a bride-to-be is shopping for her gown, she'll find one that has a great skirt, and a different one with a bodice or sleeves she loves," says Gayle Hillert, vice president of Marketing Support Services for Bernina of America. "If she can sew, or knows someone who can, she can have exactly what she wants in the perfect fabric, the perfect color and with a perfect fit. And it is easier than people think."

The same idea can be extended to attendants' dresses, Hillert says. "It's often difficult to get a group of women to agree on a dress style they like and think is flattering to them, but getting agreement on a color and fabric is easy," she says. "If someone can sew the dresses, each attendant can have the style she wants, but the fabric and color can still be coordinated."

The Perfect Gift

From a guest's perspective, receiving an invitation to a wedding may conjure up images of toasters and place mats for the happy couple-to-be, although often, you want to give something more personal, more memorable.

Again, sewing may be the answer. A machine stitched quilt using colors and patterns that will complement the couple's new home is a thoughtful gift sure to be cherished for years. Or you could sew table linens to go with the new set of china, making the newlyweds' table a work of art.

"Of course it's the thought that counts when giving a gift, but giving one that has your personal touch adds meaning to a gift -- especially at such an important event," Hillert says.

You're Not Alone

Even if you don't consider yourself an expert at the sewing machine, Hillert says resources are available both online and locally.

"Our site, www.Berninausa.com, offers free project and gift ideas as well as instructions every week, along with tips on specialized sewing topics like beading or the types of thread that work best on different fabrics," she says. In addition, the site has a section that allows users to find local dealers who can provide information not only on Bernina products, but also on local resources for many specialized needs such as special fabrics, gown storage or alterations. "Our goal is to encourage creativity and make it attainable to everyone through sewing," Hillert says.

Many Web sites provide tips and information, ranging from how to choose the right sewing machine to choosing flattering colors and fabrics, that anyone who sews -- from the beginner to the expert -- will find helpful. "Sites such as www.Sewing.com, www.About.com/sewing and www.SewCity.com are all good resources for making garments," Hillert says. "For quilters, www.About.com/quilting and www.QuiltVillage.com have lots of tips and ideas."

To learn more about sewing a wedding gown or a wedding gift, visit www.berninausa.com.

Courtesy ARA Content