When I’m working on an involved project like this, I like to start with the smaller pieces. This way, when I need to attach the collar, I can just grab the collar and put it on. Also, when the collar is already assembled, it looks like something and is less likely to be mistaken for a scrap and thrown away.
So, in the above photo, there’s the belt, the sleeve tabs, epaulets, welts, belt carriers, collar, and trench flaps. Time to start the main seams!
Rolling in Cloth 
7 Comments
Definitely, and it also gives a good feeling of progress, especially on something complicated. I’m working on a modified circle skirt, and am focusing on the sash before tackling the main skirt–makes me feel like the skirt will happen if the sash is ready to go!
Good idea. I’m sure i’m not the only person who has lost an important small piece of fabric. I may just adopt this clever idea. Thanks Claudine!
I always do this too!
I seem to remember reading an article somewhere about streamlined sewing, and sewing as much as you can before getting up to press everything, and then repeating the process. So I always do it now. It seems so much easier.
Such a good idea Claudine. I am all gung-ho at the beginning and
Feel like I’m walking in quicksand
At the end of a big project.
Another benefit of starting with the small pieces is that you see how the material responds to sewing and pressing.
I often do this, also on less complicated projects. For a blouse I will sew collar, sleeves with cuffs first and only then start at the body part usually.
I really should do this since I tend to be fine through the big pieces and then feel overwhelmed by the small ones…