The Great British Sewing Bee – Sustainable Style – Book review | Champagne Twist

Hello,

Here’s a short video of my review of the new Great British Sewing Bee’s Sustainable Style sewing book.  Hope you find it informative, don’t forget to leave your comments below.

Keep safe and well everyone.

 

 

Africa Fashion Week London – Ankara Fabric, featuring Fola Ogundare of Diligent Hands Fabrics (part 2) | Champagne Twist

In the second of the AFWL special posts, Fola Ogundare of Diligent Hand Fabrics, takes us through caring for Ankara fabric. Over to you Fola!

Ankara Fabric Care

As one who has owned lots of fabrics and clothing made from my collections, here are some of my tips;

1. Hand washing / dry cleaning is best.  If machine washing, do so at low a temperature, say 30 degrees.
2. Do not soak for a long time before washing. Hand wash any soiled areas prior to machine wash.
3. While most fabrics are colourfast, wash inside out using a mild laundry product.  Dry using a cool heat and avoid hanging in direct sunlight for hours.
4. Ironing would be easier if you use fabric conditioner and use spray starch to keep in shape.

Once again thanks go to Fola for her kindness and generosity in sharing such wonderful tips. The first article can be found here.

So there you go, there is no excuse now, try making something with Ankara fabric. Check out Fola’s range at http://www.diligenthandsfabrics.com.

There will be plenty of fabric shopping opportunities at AWFL, so why not make something fabulous now you’re armed with all of Fola’s tips.

In the next `AFWL post, I will be showcasing my own Ankara fabric makes, so subscribe to Champagne Twist to ensure you don’t miss out.

Tickets for AFWL are still available for purchase, just click here to find out more.

 

 

AFWL – the final countdown

With just a few hours to go before AFWL, check out this video to find out what you could be experiencing at the fashion event of the year.

Don’t forget tickets are still available – click here for more information.

Africa Fashion Week London – Ankara Fabric, featuring Fola Ogundare of Diligent Hands Fabrics (part 1) | Champagne Twist

African textiles, in particular, Ankara fabric, allows for a vast range of creative and crafting opportunities. But, for some, tackling this fabric can be daunting. So in order to banish any fear of using Ankara fabrics, I asked Fola Ogundare of Diligent Hands Fabrics for some tips. So for the first time on Champagne Twist, I hand over this post to Fola.

Ankara fabric: 3 tips for creative success, by Fola Ogundare.

1. Cotton African prints most times when new can be a bit stiff, so they are most suited for clothing that requires a bit of structure with minimal drapery.
2. Pre-wash your fabrics ahead of sewing for projects. By experience, shrinkage may be up to 10%.  You could also adjust measurements to allow for shrinkage.
3. Use print fabric to glam up simple garments like monotone or plain colours.  A pop of print is as potent when mixed with plain cotton or lace fabrics.  You may also make a headband or oversized purse with leftover fabric.  Don’t forget hair accessories like fascinators and button earrings and bangles.  There are lots of online resources if you need help.

Thank you Fola, for sharing your great tips. Check out Fola’s range of fabrics and accessories at www.diligenthandsfabrics.com.

In the next post, Fola will take us through the essentials of Ankara fabric care. Subscribe to Champagne Twist to ensure you don’t miss out.

There will also be plenty of fabric shopping opportunities at AWFL, so why not make something fabulous now you’re armed with all of Fola’s tips.

Tickets for AFWL are still available for purchase, just click the link to find out more – AFWL tickets.

Africa Fashion Week London, Model Casting | Champagne Twist

Below, is a fascinating video of the AFWL model casting released yesterday on the Africa Fashion Week London YouTube channel.  Take a look and don’t forget to book your tickets for the hottest event in town.

Tickets can be purchased here.

AFWL – 9 & 10 August 2019, Freemasons’ Hall, London

The Festival of Quilts – Giveaway | Champagne Twist

Hi,

Just a quick announcement for those in the UK who are planning to go to the Festival of Quilts next month at the NEC, Birmingham – there are 5 pairs of tickets up for grabs.

Watch the video below and stay tuned for more information.

#FOQ2019

 

 

Africa Fashion Week London 2019 – Pinterest Image Collection

With the countdown to Africa Fashion Week London 2019 well underway, I thought this would be a good opportunity to invite you to visit my Pinterest board – Africa Fashion Week London 2019.

 

This collection of 100s of photographs has been especially collated for this year’s show, with more added each day.  With a wealth of ideas, influences and imagery, it will surely get you in the mood to strut your stuff, ready for this Summer’s event.

So why not visit the AFWL board and maybe share some of your own fashion images too.

Africa Fashion Week London, 2019 – The countdown continues … | Champagne Twist

The countdown continues …

 

For further info, click the Eventbrite page here.

Countdown to Africa Fashion Week London | Champagne Twist

Photo source/credit : AFWL

AFWL 2019

If you love fashion, then clear your designer diaries for Africa Fashion Week London, August 9-10, 2019.

SAVE THE DATE

9-10 August 2019
Freemasons’ Hall
60 Great Queen Street
London WC2B 5AZ

Doors open from 1pm for Exhibition browsing and entertainment

Friday Catwalk Shows: 5pm & 7pm
Saturday Catwalk Shows: 3pm, 5pm & 7pm

To purchase tickets, click the link here.