Sewing

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Tutorial: DIY padded camera bag insert

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Ashley from Lil Blue Boo shows how you can make a designer camera bag at a fraction of the cost of buying one already made.  The secret is a padded and velcro-ed organizer that can turn a roomy handbag into a stylish camera tote.  The padding protects the camera and keeps it snug and the velcro allows you to customize the size of the compartments for your camera body and lenses.  This is so awesome!!  Get the tute.

Do you love love love Lil Blue Boo patterns?  Check out our giveaway!

[photo from Lil Blue Boo]

Comments

    • If you go to the post at Lil Blue Boo and then click the large graphic (title page of the tutorial), it will load the PDF in your browser. Alternately, you could right-click on the graphic and save the file down to your computer. –Anne

  2. thank you, thank you, and in case i forgot, thank you! this is so generous of you, and is greatly appreciated! God bless you!

  3. Thanks so much for sharing this. I’m going to buy the stuff to make one right away.

  4. So happy to have found this Tut! Thank you!! I have a backpack that I use as purse, camera bag, and laptop case. This will make the camera fit so much nicer!!

    My modifications will be: I will be getting 1/8″ acrylic (from hardware store) in place of the cardboard. I am also going to purchase a can of the spray that is utterly water repellent and paint the whole thing, so it is solidly water-tight, :).

    I will also be adding a flap over the top, so things will stay scratch-free in my bag.

    THANKS AGAIN!!

Have you read?

15 Drop Waist Dress Sewing Patterns You’ll Want to Try

If you’re craving a fresh silhouette to sew, something a little different from your usual fit-and-flare or shift dress—let us introduce (or reintroduce) you to the timeless drop waist dress. This unique cut drops the waistline down to the hips (or just above), creating a relaxed, easy-going shape that feels both vintage-inspired and modern at the same time.

Popularized in the 1920s and adored by fashionistas ever since, the drop waist dress is having a quiet comeback in cottagecore, minimalist, and chic summer styles. And the best part? It’s incredibly comfortable — especially for those days when you want to wear something loose yet put-together.

Wondering if a drop waist style will suit you? It tends to flatter longer torsos, straight body types, and taller frames beautifully — the lowered waistline elongates the body and gives a more casual, laid-back vibe. But that doesn’t mean others can’t pull it off! A well-placed ruffle, a tiered skirt, or a structured bodice can create a balanced look on all body types. Plus, drop waist dresses look adorable on kids and are easy to layer in cooler months.

In this roundup, you’ll find 15 stunning drop waist dress patterns and tutorials — from free PDF downloads to full video sew-alongs. There are floaty ruffle-hem sundresses, sleeveless styles perfect for summer, structured options with corset details, and even cottagecore-ready looks that feel straight out of a dreamy picnic. Whether you’re looking for casual weekend wear or a fun dressy project, there’s something here you’ll want to sew immediately.

How to Draft a Drop-Waist Dress 

Sleeveless Ruffle Summer Dress Drop Waist

Cozette Dress Sewing Pattern

DROP WAIST DRESS SEWING TUTORIAL/PATTERN 

making a drop waist corset style dress [SEWING TUTORIAL]

Julie drop waist dress – free PDF sewing pattern – Tiana’s Closet 

Free sewing pattern: Half sleeve drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet

Drop Waist Ruffle dress

A little twist to the drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet 

Free PDF sewing pattern: Sleeveless drop waist dress – Tiana’s Closet

DROP-WAIST DRESS • PATTERN SCISSORS FROCK

How to Sew a Drop Waist Dress | Banksia Sewalong

Lined Drop Waist Dress Sewing Tutorial

The drop waist dress might not be your go-to silhouette (yet), but once you try sewing one, don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your handmade wardrobe. They’re fun to make, comfy to wear, and a great excuse to play with a different shape.

As someone with a pear-shaped figure, I personally love how drop waist dresses highlight my slimmer upper body and waist while skimming gently over the hips. It’s one of those rare styles that actually makes me feel both comfortable and confident — no tugging, no clinging, just effortless style that lets my “skinny bits” shine.

From ruffled hems to cottagecore charm, there’s a drop waist pattern in this list that’s bound to suit your body and your sewing vibe. So go ahead — pick your favorite, dig into that fabric stash, and start stitching your new go-to dress today!

Let me know which one you’re trying first — I love seeing your makes!