Drag Queen Sewing Academy: A Collection of YouTube Videos Every Drag Queen Should Watch
In the world of drag, every queen knows the importance of makeup, hair, and performing. But if you haven’t added sewing to your skill set, you’re missing out on a crucial tool in your drag arsenal. At Katkow, we believe that every drag queen should learn how to sew. Just like mastering the art of makeup, hair, and performing, sewing is another step in creating your unique drag persona. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your drag sewing skills, we’ve curated a collection of YouTube playlists designed to make learning how to sew fun, easy, and accessible.
Learning to sew for drag doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ve organized the best sewing videos into clear categories so you can learn at your own pace. This free guide will take you from the basics to advanced techniques, helping you become the ultimate drag queen seamstress. Check out the playlists below to start your sewing journey!
Syllabus:
- Machines for Beginners
- Fabrics and Stitches
- First-Time Sewing Projects
- Beginner Sewing Techniques for Drag
- Advanced Sewing Techniques
- Adjusting Sewing Patterns
- Extras on Improving Your Skills
Machines for Beginners
Starting with the right sewing machine is essential for drag sewing. We recommend beginning with a basic home sewing machine to get comfortable with the process. As you grow more confident, consider upgrading to a heavy-duty machine, which can handle thicker fabrics and more complex projects. Finally, a serger is a great investment for drag queens, providing professional seam finishes and making stretch fabrics easier to sew.
Watch our sewing machines playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Fabrics and Stitches
Choosing the right fabric is key to making drag outfits that look great and last through performances. There are important differences between stretch and non-stretch fabrics, and knowing when to use each will make your sewing projects much easier. Understanding grainlines, bias cuts, and how to properly interface and hem your garments will ensure that your costumes have the structure and movement they need on stage.
Watch our fabrics and stitches playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
First-Time Sewing Projects
If you're completely new to sewing, it’s a good idea to start with simple projects that will help you get comfortable with your machine and basic stitches. Try starting with easy projects like sewing a tote bag or a pillowcase, and then work your way up to sewing a basic T-shirt. These projects will give you a strong foundation to tackle more complex drag costumes later on.
Watch our first project playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Beginner Sewing Techniques for Drag
Drag costumes often require specific sewing techniques that help create drama and ensure a proper fit. As you start sewing for drag, you’ll want to master essential techniques like sewing invisible zippers, installing regular zippers, and sewing gussets and godets for added flare. Once you’ve nailed those, try your hand at making a basic catsuit—an essential piece in any drag queen’s wardrobe.
Watch our beginner techinques playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Advanced Sewing Techniques
Once you’re comfortable with basic sewing, it’s time to dive into more advanced techniques that will take your drag costumes to the next level. Sewing boning into corsets, installing bra cups, and sewing eyelets and lacing for corsets are crucial skills for creating structured and body-contouring garments that hold up during performances. These advanced techniques will elevate your sewing and your drag looks.
Watch our advanced techinques playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Adjusting Sewing Patterns
Drag costumes often need to be customized for your body or for special design elements. Learning how to adjust sewing patterns is an essential skill for creating garments that fit your unique shape and performance needs. Whether you need to alter patterns to accommodate padding, body contouring, or dramatic designs, this playlist will show you how to make adjustments that make all the difference.
Watch our sewing patterns playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Extras on Improving Your Skills
There are always extra tips and tricks that can help take your sewing skills from good to great. From avoiding common mistakes like improper threading or skipping pressing seams, to using muslin for test garments, these pro tips will save you time and improve the quality of your drag costumes. Always remember: practice makes perfect!
Watch our improving sewing skills playlist below. Make sure to click on the top right corner menu to see all the videos in the playlist.
Conclusion
Learning how to sew is a must for every drag queen, and with these video tutorials, you’ll be sewing like a pro in no time. From the basics to advanced techniques, this guide will help you build the skills needed to create fabulous, custom-made drag costumes that fit your body and vision. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your sewing abilities, these playlists will guide you every step of the way. Start sewing today and take your drag to the next level!
