Part 2 - Making Something New




The idea of reusing a wedding gown for something else is not new. In war eras - dresses were bought that could be dyed and used as church dresses after the wedding in order to save money. There are many, many things you can do with a wedding gown - here are just a few:

- Turn it into a quilt. I remember one bride who mentioned that she was buying the bridesmaid gowns as well, and then turning all of them together into a quilt with the classic wedding ring pattern. You can also make pillows, throw pillows, curtains, etc.

- Give It To Your Daughter - Just not the way you think:) Instead of saving it for the possible day when you daughter might want to wear it - have it made into Christening Gowns/Suits for your children! Not only do you have more then enough fabric to do quite a few outfits, christening outfits do not generally go out of style much. These outfits will become heirlooms used for your children, your grandchildren, your great grandchildren, etc.

- Wear It Again - many of today's styles can be quite easily altered and then dyed to make a beautiful gown for formal gatherings or for your first anniversary dinner. This may involve removing the train and/or shortening the dress, removing some of the crinoline for less fullness, etc. This will also often leave enough fabric that you could use if for other keepsakes like pillows or christening gowns.

- Something Special - If done right, you could have the bridal gown turned into a dinner gown for the first anniversary with enough fabric left over to make something a little sexier for the anniversary night.... Yes - I mean lingerie, lol.

- A few other ideas: Album cover, baby blankets, scarf or shawl, handbag, tie, lamp shades etc.

Those are some of the more common ideas I have seen, but there are many things that you can make from your gown if you wish. I hope that gets you thinking. If those ideas just aren't for you , don't worry - we'll be back with plenty of other ideas of the next few weeks.

Coming Soon: Part 3 - Trashing Your Dress