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This month I am working with CSF online. I thought I would go down the traditional fabric route and look at Leavers lace, you may have heard of Leavers lace especially if you have looked online and seen the significant price difference that is between regular lace and Leavers lace, so what makes this lace a work of art?

Tulle is a versatile fabric perfect for creating supportive lingerie, especially in larger sizes. While it can be more challenging to work with than stretch fabrics, its mechanical stretch provides excellent support. Tulle comes in various colors and styles, including embroidered options that add depth and character. Unlike craft tulle, lingerie tulle is softer and more durable, characterized by its hexagonal weave.

To sew with tulle effectively, use fabric weights and a rotary cutter to avoid distortion, and opt for a sharp 70/10 needle. Clips are preferred over pins to prevent snags, and French seams are recommended if you lack an overlocker. For attaching elastic, use a narrow zigzag stitch. Though slippery and delicate, sewing with tulle can yield beautiful results if approached with patience. Embrace its airy quality and enjoy the creative possibilities this fabric offers!

I remember my first design I designed and presented to Topshop was a burgundy floral mesh set, with matching burgundy rouleau straps and burgundy trims, it was one of the most safe and commercial designs I’d ever done and as it was sitting with other designs the head designer had made; I was too unsure to add any other colour or my staple design of black. Needless to say it never got picked, but it was a great introduction to designing with mesh. It’s been from working with mesh that I discovered how to make it supportive for FF cup...

With summer finally here, although the weather is disagreeing a little, my collaboration with CSF online where I look at the different fabrics they stock and give them a road test, this month is all about swimwear fabric specifically Carvico. I first worked with Carivo when I was designing for UK high streets, from tie-sides for Topshop and colour-blocking swimsuits for Next; they are the fabric company I turn to when designing swimwear. Carvico has been going for over sixty years and their attention to detail to their technical fabrics offers comfort, fit and durability. Matt, shiny or printed with...