My costume top is now done!

the show!

It was the closest I will probably ever get to riding an Arab across the desert, complete with dusty sand:) be sure to watch to the end!

 

The piece I planned for my top did not arrive so I had to improvise.

The trim is here the trim is here

now Im only waiting for 2 pieces from ebay, one is essential and should be here on time, the other isnt and Im not sure its even shipped yet as it hasnt been updated. So rather than mow the lawn I had to start in on it! Its looking so much more finished now, and at 6 plus shipping for 16 1/2 yards - a TOTAL STEAL. But even with that much Im going to be a bit short of what Id really like to do with it.

Dress up the Diva time

Tried it on her Monday, everything fit perfectly and she could have cared less!

since then I have finished the second row of tassels and done some more work on the bridle, cant finish the bridle til I get my ebay purchases but I can now put the backing on the saddle piece and reinforce the girth opening with ultrasuede.

Arab costume sewing - saddle piece cont.

back piece

nearing completion

 

Arab costume sewing - saddle piece

 Where I left off with the saddle front piece last night

Arab costume sewing day one

Breast collar:

The Frugal ... Arab Costume maker???

Say what? Arent we supposed to be practicing for the Dressage show thats now less than 3 weeks away. Eh theres time for that later. Determined to do EVERYTHING with my Arab I got the crazy idea to make Diva an Arab Costume. Not only that but to make it in 2 weeks and for less than $100. Whats that I hear "your nuts", "no way"...oh naysayers and disbelievers. You know me not! When I want to do something I do it. I already have about 100 tassels made and that should be about enough for 1 row. I want 2 rows but that can always be done later. Ive started on the breast collar and my head piece but cant do much more til I get a few more supplies and some measurements of Diva (tonight). So far I have spent less than $80 and just need a few trim pieces and something for my pants. Worst case scenario I just use my breeches since I have a hunt class 2 classes later anyway. Its purple (duh!) and gold and here are some pix of the supplies and ideas: