Drowning in brocade- What to do with it all?

[Ashling]

Long ago in a galaxy far away, when my husband was away with the military, and I acutally had money and not a lot to do, I entertained myself by fabric shopping.  This was when Joanns first started carrying polyester brocade, and I bought several yards of several different designs.  Now I have all this material and I'm not sure what to do with it.  I've used a little to make a vest, but that's it so far.  I don't wear straight skirts and it's too heavy for a flared skirt.  Pants I'm afraid would get ruined.  I'm not sure what else to do.  I'm planning on making a couple more vests, but that won't use up anywhere near all of it.  Ideas?

[Inkie]

Brocade can make beautiful decorative bedspreads and pillows that can give lots of flair to your home.  It's also super luxurious for pampering yourself - I have a couple of eye pillows and sleep masks I made from brocade, and they're very cooling on the eyes and skin.  If you're up to the challenge, make yourself a dressing gown or kimono-type garment for relaxing in.  You could also use small-patterned brocade to make little coin purses or glasses cases for a little touch of elegance.  I know exactly how you feel about Joann's brocade...I was drooling over several pieces the other day!

[Ludi]

What about a coat?

Here's some amazing coat inspiration:  http://www.kristismart.com/

[fontophilic]

How about a necktie? That's a pretty traditional use for brocade.

Pattern .zip:http://www.threadbanger.com/post/14005/tie-pattern
And Video: http://www.threadbanger.com/tb-projects/episode/THR_20090821/how-to-make-a-tie-back-to-school-threadbanger-projects

I'd also probably make myself a small fancy handbag, something for special occasions. Even just the Buttercup pattern could be luxurious with brocade: http://www.made-by-rae.com/2009/02/free-buttercup-bag-sewing-pattern.html

You could also do a belt for yourself. I'm thinking a wide, at the waist belt, rather than through belt loops. Not a free pattern, but something like this would look sharp over a white blouse: http://www.burdastyle.com/patterns/cabezas-belt

Oh, and one last thing, not an easy undertaking by any means, but a corset is another traditional use for brocade.