Spandex Simplified

Sewing for Skaters is the second title in Marie Porter's Spandex Simplified series, and is all about designing and creating spectacular and durable figure skating dresses. It combines techniques taught in two of Marie's early manuals (Skaters and Gynmasts and Dancers... Oh My!  &  The Skating Dress Style Book), updated with new styles and techniques... now in beautiful full color, featuring many photos and sketches.

This book is appropriate for beginner to advanced levels of sewing ability, and is written from both a designer, and former figure skater’s point of view. It will teach everything from the basics, to tricks of the trade. Spandex Simplified : Sewing for Skaters will prepare the reader to design and make almost any design of practice or competition dress imaginable.

Given the cost of decent competition suits - or even practice dresses! - this manual will more than pay for itself with the savings from just one project!

The entire book is written completely in laymans' terms and carefully explained, step by step. Only basic sewing knowledge and talent is required. Learn everything from measuring, to easily creating ornate applique designs, to embellishing the finished suit in one book.

Please note: As spandex patterning and sewing techniques are largely the same across many styles of costuming, a large portion of each Sewing with Spandex  title is the same/similar to the other Sewing with Spandex  titles.   We recommend consulting the Table of Contents for each book you’re considering:

 Basic Principles of Skatewear Design

- Proper Fit & Skating Considerations
- Figure Flaw Camouflage
- Designing for the Swimmer
- Designing for the Music
- Visibility
- Functionality
- Colour Theory
- Unity
- Selecting Fabrics

Pattern Alterations

- Measuring
- Using a Pattern
- Sizing a Pattern
- Adding Length
- Removing Length
- Adjusting Curve of the Back
- Adjusting the Butt Length
- Base Pattern Alteration Final Notes

Sewing Techniques

- In the Beginning
- Cutting the Fabric
- Seams
- Elastic Application
- Thread Colour Selection
- Colour Blocking
- Applique
- Lace Overlays
- Lining
- Piping
- Hems
- Zippers
- Closures
- Making Straps

Style Techniques

- Shapes
- Sleeves
- Backs and necks
- Skirts
- Leg cuts

Suit Assembly

- Bodysuits
- Basic Dress
- Applying a sleeve
- Tights
- Practice skirts

Embellishments

- Sequins
- Rhinestones
- Hand Painting
- Glitter
- Foil Embossing

Accessories

- Scrunchies
- Blade Covers
- Skate Covers

Resources

Note Pages