I’ve been obsessed with jeans lately. So, when I found this denim for three dollars a yard I had to buy it. It’s 2% spandex and 98% cotton, a charcoal gray color, with an extraordinary amount of sizing in it. It sounded like sandpaper when they were cutting it at the store. I came home and soaked it in vinegar, baking soda, and detergent. It is a lot softer now than it was when I brought it home, but I think working with it will make it even softer. Given the texture, I’m going for Boyfriend jeans this time.
My favorite jeans vaporized. Not really, but they were so worn out the butt fell completely out one night. So, I’ve become obsessed with making the perfect pair of jeans. Because I am a tightwad and it’s so challenging! I recently completed a pair of jeggings.
These took me a very long time, mostly because I’m in search of the perfect jeans. I am almost finished…they are wearable, but need more topstitching. I’m giving them a trial run today. So far, so good! The main problem with these is they have too much stretch in them. Never a bad thing right? Well, unless….that’s not the fit you were hoping for making.
During the experimentation process I learned quite a few tips. I’ll get around to sharing these with you. But right now I want to talk about why jeans get such a bad rep. I know why they cost so much. There is tons and tons of detail that goes into the making of jeans. Think about all that topstitching, even on the belt loops! I used an entire spool of thread on one pair. I didn’t even use the same color for the bobbin. Which reminds me, I need to purchase some more of that thread so I can finish the little pesky details.
When you go shopping for the fabric pay close attention to the weight. I think the heavier the better, think Levis denim. But, the 7oz denim I used on my jeggings is mighty comfy. I guess it’s a personal thing. That’s why they make so much money on them. Everyone likes something a little different.
I’m going to tackle the fabric now, with scissors. I’ll keep you updated on the process with pictures and stories about my mishaps and victories.