"... Some pads have really stiff coverings, just the thing
to have when making shoulders that will clear off
shelves in the department stores as you walk by!..."
Kenneth King, "Cool Couture"
Mr. King, now see what you've done! :)
A few days ago DH and I went to a tailoring supply store in Culver City and there I found something quite amazing. I can't recall what it's called but maybe some of my readers will know. It's a "moldable" felt and looks like thick fused batting. When heat is applied, the fibers are transformed into something very stiff and is set permanently in whatever shape you created. How cool is that!
Edited on July 29: It's called Fosshape, here is a link (this is the same store that I bought from in Culver City)
After making a quick test on a small piece, I attached a mold, made by sewing together some regular batting and stuffing it with fiber fill, to the shoulder/arm.
Next, I used a tailored pad, trimmed at sides, and inserted it, basting it down the shoulder seam.
These are SOLID pads! I think they will hold up and I will cover them with something, maybe a thin layer of batting. I may have to trim the edges but that will have to wait until after the shell is put together. The things we learn... :))
Looking good, what things you find on your tailor shopping. This heat moldable batting is completely new to me. This will be so right for your jacket.
ReplyDeleteGreat find, you can cover the new shoulderpads with a thin layer like from an old pair of stockings.
ReplyDeleteNeat! Thanks for the explanation. I've made shoulder pads out of batting, but that moldable felt is genius.
ReplyDeleteThat shape looks perfect for what you are doing.
ReplyDeleteThe moldable felt sounds amazing.
I love that you go outside the box to explore and learn in your sewing! Reading your blog is like an addictive soap opera for me--love it!
ReplyDeleteCool! Thanks for the info :)
ReplyDeleteMary Beth
Great tips for shoulder pads! Those of us with sloping shoulders can always use some help! :) Are there still tickets available for Million Dollar Quartet in Chicago?
ReplyDeletebrilliant!
ReplyDeleteJust happen to find your info about my FOSSHAPE... an interesting application. I come from the development and manufacturing side of FOSSHAPE as available in both a light weight(300 grade) and a heavy weight(600 grade)as sold by the 45" wide linear yard. Looking for some additional dealers from the sewing trade and would appreciate anyone's comments. And let me know if you want a sample swatch to play with.
ReplyDeleteThermoman