Basic Belt

Until the webpage is fixed, if you want a copy of this pattern, please email me bellydancejini@ww.co.nz

Materials

· Paper for making your pattern (newsprint or brown paper bags are great)

· 1/2 meter crappy cloth (for your rough draft! No sense ruining that expensive fabric needlessly)

· 1/2 meter lamé, acetate, silk, or satin

· 1/2 meter heavy cotton or super sturdy iron-on interfacing (the heavier and more durable the fabric, the heavier the decorations you can put on the belt. I used two layers of heavy-weight denim)

· 1/2 meter felt

· 2 super heavy-duty hooks (coat clasps)

· Beads, coins, or appliqués for decoration

Method

Experiment with a paper (brown paper or newspaper) pattern first. You should first complete each of these steps with cheap fabric to ensure the correct fit.

Measure the distance around your hips.

Add 1/2 inch for the side seam and the overlap where the hooks or snap closures will go. Belts can close at the back, front, or side. It depends on your design.

Make separate front and back pattern pieces.

Cut the outer layer to be at least 1/2 inch larger all around than the pattern so the edges can be folded over the other layers to tidy up the edges.

The angle at which you make the side seam can help contour the belt for a better fit. Making 2 small darts at the center of the back piece will also help.

Sew the belt together, placing clasps on opening.

Decorate belt with embroidery, beads, coins, or appliqués. Use your imagination! (I think chainmail would be very interesting....)

After you've decorated the belt, sew felt on back with large, basting stitches. This is the only part of the belt that gets washed.