“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” –Martin Luther King, Jr.

In continuing our celebration this week of Martin Luther King, Jr. and his philosophy and teachings, we sought to create something sustainable that could share this hopeful message that stemmed from the American Civil Rights Movement.

I have always found this quote inspiring, and have applied its message in my own life time and time again: reminding myself each day that it is just about showing up and doing what you can do—today. It seems appropriate, in this new year of new beginnings, to create a reminder (and testament) to this continued commitment to moving forward. Step by step.

Make this corset by following the instructions from page 144 of Alabama Stitch Book. (The pattern is included on the pattern sheet at the back of the book.) We made our version with medium-weight organic cotton jersey fabric, but it could easily be made using recycled t-shirts, as well. This technique can also be used to embellish other patterns or existing garments with scooped necklines.

SUPPLIES

Sharpie or fabric marker
Embroidery floss
Embroidery scissors
Hand-sewing needle

Once you have constructed your corset following the instructions from Alabama Stitch Book, carefully freehand the quote around the neckline of the corset, using a fabric-safe marker. (Note: You might want to practice writing the quote on paper a few times to get sizing and spacing correct. We also recommend placing a piece of cardboard or a notebook inside the garment for support before you begin to write on the fabric.)

Using a chain stitch, stitch along the quote, knotting off with a double knot when necessary. Continue around the front neckline of the corset until you have stitched each word. Repeat around the back neckline.

*While we used a chain stitch on our corset, you could easily customize your own project with a variety of embroidery stitches.

OUR DESIGN CHOICES:

Fabric weight –100% organic medium-weight cotton jersey
Fabric color – Natural
Button Craft thread – Cream #256
Embroidery floss – Black
Embroidery technique – Chain stitch
Seams – Inside Felled
Binding stitch – Cretan