DIY Craft
Mistress McCutchan
Whether being
budget-conscious, profittable, or just for the fun of it, there are a lot of very creative, crafty folks among us in the goth scene. Not just is there the pride of making it yourself, you are guaranteed a unique item. Now, if you’re new to the whole DIY (that’s do-it-yourself) realm, here are some ideas and resources to point you in the right direction. Remember to have fun!
Knitting
It’s not just for grandmas, or just for girls for that matter. It’s therapeutic, easy to carry around to work on during your commute time, and with autumn coming, it’ll keep your fingers busy while leisurely sipping tea.
Stitch 'N' Bitch
From the editor of one of my favorite magazines, Bust, this is a fun book for beginners and advanced knitters alike. Knitting is such a forgiving medium to play with and this book definitely encourages being experimental. And I know you'll want the sweater with the skull sleeves!
Knitty
This site is a fantastic resource for fun, funky and free patterns. Be prepared to print these babies out! The summer 2004 issue has some especially saucy garter belt and bustier type knits that you must see to believe.
White Lies Designs
Gorgeous vintage inspired patterns and kits you can purchase. Hot lingerie styles, too!
Knit A Bikini
A very simple way to crank out some funky triangle tops to pair up with a chainmail bra or to wear to bellydance class.
Sassy Sadie’s Painted Ladies
Add just a little color in to your basic black cotton or wool – these handspun and dyed skeins are gorgeous and will look amazing when knitted up.
Beading
Play with your own jewelry designs or embroider into your clothes/purses.
Fire Mountain Gems
This catalogue has all the supplies you need to get going – from beads and wire to tools and organizers. You can also request their massive catalogue by mail.
Just Beads
An auction site for... you guessed it, just beads. Lots of great finds here.
Tanzyr
Sterling pendants and findings with a spiritual/metaphysical tip. Great Pagan, Celtic, Christian and Hebrew findings.
Penny Michelle
Fun lampwork critter beads – the bat and alien beads are really cute.
Wig Jig
Supplies and step-by-step projects within the “Wig Jig University”.
Soapmaking
Natural Soapmaking
I found this to be a great starting point for making some very delicious presents for the holidays. Instructions include supplies needed with recipes.
Spiritcrafts
Both candle and soap making supplies here. This is where you can buy your skull, tombstone and goddess molds!
Sewing
Reprodepot Fabrics
Looking for authenticity in your vintage-inspired creations? This site has fantastic reproduction prints from the 1920’s and beyond.
Gothic Fashion Sewing
Josie Nutter’s compilation of commercial patterns with gothic appeal. Next time you hit your local JoAnn’s for patterns, remember these numbers.
Amazon Dry Goods
The site isn’t much to look at, but do snag one of their sewing pattern catalogues. it is chock full of historic and ethnic patterns, specializing in the Victorian era, for men, women and children. This company also carries corset-making kits.
Folkwear Patterns
Ethnic, retro and period patterns that you can directly purchase online.
Not feeling the crafty goodness? Support independent crafters.
Other suggestions/resources? Do write in with your favorites; we’ll have to post a follow-up article! |
