This project was very interesting for me to work with as I had a large hyperfixation on steampunk during covid, so I came in with a lot of knowledge on the topic.
There were a few things that I know I wanted to include in my collar, such as mixed metals, patches, and a corset back. I really like the style of steampunk where it is clear it is mechanical, but is still more hidden. That is where I got the idea of the gears peaking out from beneath the patches.
I also really like the DIY aspect of steampunk culture and believe it is an incredibly important part of the culture, so I wanted my collar to look more handmade while still being professional.
My biggest setback with the collar was the process of trying to hand embroider. I was originally going to use my friend’s sewing machine, but they ended up needing it so I tried to do it by hand. The issue with that was that 1) it was not readable from afar and 2) the painted fabric was too thick for the needle to comfortably go though. If I had used my time differently, I think I could have pulled off the needlework, but with the time I allocated for it I could not. I ended up keeping pieces of it because it left holes otherwise. I also think that it added to the DIY of it.
I really liked working with the Fosshape, I think it is my favorite so far.
I was really annoyed because I couldn’t get the eyelets to close on themselves because the fabric was too thick. I made it work by hand opening the eyelet grips, but the back doesn’t look as nice.
I really like how the belt neckpiece looks. I wish I had done a darker color for it, but I worry that may have drawn away from the leather looking leather.
I meant to get more photos of this but I sat down and just got a ton of work done on it.