SewMoreForU

Vinatge labels become trendy clothing

2008-08-05T10:01:00.004+10:00

DURHAM - The skirt was hideous.

It was one of those impractical floor-length wraparounds from the '70s, the kind with the really high waist and so much volume it came off looking like something from "Little House in the Prairie."

Even with its vintage label and the growing popularity of all things vintage, it hardly seemed salvageable. It was best left where it came from -- in a bin full of old clothes.

Jamie Powell saw potential, though. Two yards of potential, to be exact. She didn't see three-decade-old style, she saw fabric, glorious white satin with large floral patches of velvet in baby blue and pale pink. In her mind, it could easily be transformed into a chic dress that she could resell for quadruple the cost of the materials.

It's the latest trend in green living.

Read More Here-->

Technorati Tags: vintage sewing patterns, creative sewing, sewing, vintage clothes

PATTERN DRAFTING BY HEIGHT - body proportions This pattern design method can be used to determine drafting measurements from a given figure height combined with girth measurements for the chest, waist and hips. Knowing the person’s height allows for formulations of ...
Building information Model » Importance of Cad System in apparel ... - Technology is radically changing the relationship of the designer to the finished product. When the consumer sees a trend on TV, in a music video or on the Oscars, they want it tomorrow. So we'll need to have systems that allow us to react quickly.
My First Self-Drafted Pattern!!! - If I had the extra time to study technical pattern drafting, I’d be the first in line for class, but as it stands, my already limited sewing time doesn’t permit me to draft patterns the technical way. That’s why I was more than ...
Tales from a Pattern Addict » Corset: Try 2 - (aside: I'd attmempt to be a little better about updating this, but I'm also working on a whole new version, to debut on micheerose. com, with new features)
Well, I've made good progress on my second attempt at making a steel-boned corset. I tried flat-pattern-drafting my own pattern, but I didn't like the way it was coming out and I realized it was somewhat futile without a properly fit sloper, so I scrapped that idea.

Get Creative, Make Your Own Bag

2008-07-17T07:16:00.001+10:00

I found this blog and thought of you immediately, there is a great slide show featuring bags, wonderful, creative bags and all sewn.

Hop over and have a look at them and then go through your fabric stash and get creative too.

Okay here is the link just click here-->

Technorati Tags: sewing bags, sewing creative, sewing

Sewing With Knits

2008-07-11T07:23:00.001+10:00

Here is some handy information I thought you might like to read, I found it here

Hope you find it useful too

Sewing with knits is very different than sewing with woven fabrics. Once you get acquainted with the actual difference, many think it is actually easier. A few simple rules can help.

You don’t need any special attachments or special machine. You will find that always using cotton wrapped polyester thread helps. There are several good brands on the market. The 100 percent polyester is less expensive but not nearly as good because it itself is very apt to fuzz, snarl and break at the needle.

Secondly, you need to use a ballpoint or all-purpose needle. I like the ballpoint best; they actually come sized for heavy, medium and fine points for use with the different weight knit fabrics.

Technorati Tags: sewing with knits, knitted fabrics, sewing, sewing tips

Concertina Sewing Box!

2008-06-09T07:03:00.001+10:00

I just found this post on this blog here and wanted to share it with you. I have one of these Concertina Sewing boxes, mine is beautifully carved with the Cherry Blossom pattern and I treasure it. Such a wonderful place to store anything hand sewing in the living room so I can pick it up and continue whenever I want. It is always tidy and always there. Love it !!!!!

A "concertina" style sewing box that opens on both sides like an accordian so that it can be stuffed full with sewing items. I initially saw a box like this one on Leanne's homesteading blog. She gave me the name of the style.

And a lovely Lane cedar chest from the '50s. I've always wanted one and intend to use it to hold my textile "finds". Of which there are many I might add.

There's a little bit of bubbling of the veneer finish on the front of the chest that I've discovered how to repair on this site but otherwise it is in beautiful condition. How sweet for my family to honor my heart's desires in this way. (They also more than likely see the need to somehow contain my sewing passions. I've stashed sewing items all over the place I'm afraid. )

My next sewing project has to be from one of these late 30's patterns that I found in an antique store earlier this week. I'm headed over to Reprodepot to find the perfect print. I'll have to alter the waist for sure on any one of these. People in the 30's must have been extremely svelte.

Technorati Tags: sewing boxes, sewing, sewing storage

How to Make a Tote Bag (with pictures) - wikiHow

2007-11-27T05:43:00.000+10:00

How to Make a Tote Bag (with pictures) - wikiHow: "How to Make a Tote Bag Do you need a tote bag, or know someone who'd love it as a gift? Are you bored with the selections in the stores? Or perhaps just too frugal to pay twenty bucks for something you could make yourself? Find some fabric for sale (or any abandoned fabric in your closet will work, too!) and put that sewing machine to work!"

Creative Christmas Stockings, Special Fund Raising

2007-11-17T21:20:00.001+10:00

Ms Smith has been involved with the festival for six years, but it
wasn't until this year that her creative energies really started to
flow – in the form of more than 100 stockings.

As the fabric flew and the stockings began to take shape, Ms Smith says she just couldn't stop herself.

“This year I wanted something a little different. I could make stockings, that would be kind of fun,” she says.

“Honestly, since we (she and her husband) got back from vacation there hasn't been any day I haven't been sewing.”

They got back from their vacation in the summer.

Since then she has been sorting fabrics and spending at lease four
hours a day making these Christmas keepsakes, hoping they will be sold
and featured at the show.

While festival officials and Ms Smith have yet to determine the exact price, these stocking will go anywhere from $15 to $30.

A small price to pay for healthcare, Ms Smith says.

“Everybody can benefit from the proceeds. We all need a better health care system,”

Read on here

Technorati Tags: creative sewing, sewing Christmas stockings

Brother's Project Runway Limited Edition In Time For Christmas.

2007-11-14T11:44:00.001+10:00

If you're a fan of Project Runway then this may be something you want to put on your Christmas Present wish list. Brother have just released a new Project Runway Limited Edition sewing machine to coincide with the season 4 of Project Runway.

Stay tuned this season to see where these new Project Runway Limited Edition sewing
machines take the fashion, sewing and embroidery world. Prices start around $300.
These new, inspiring sewing machines have just hit the runway at participating
Authorized Brother Innov-is Dealers, timed perfectly for the gift-giving season.

Read all about it here

Technorati Tags: Brother's Project runway Limited Edition Sewing Machine

Sew For The Home, Tips and Hints

2007-11-12T23:24:00.001+10:00

There are lots of tips for sewing for the home, things like

Measuring the windows
Fabric estimator
Make a simple curtain and valance
Many styles of curtains
Cushions
Slip covers for dining chairs
A duvet cover
and lots, lots more

Just take this link and see for yourself. Sewing for your home

Technorati Tags: sewing tips, sewing for the home, sewing hints,

Learn How To Mark Your Pattern Pieces

2007-11-07T09:56:00.001+10:00

This is a fundamental of sewing, marking your pattern

Marking the pieces for your sewing project is an important--and
actually timesaving --part of ensuring a successful project. Taking the
time to do a good job of it will ensure the best possible results. As
you become a more experienced sewer, you may choose shortcut
techniques, but don't avoid this step altogether.

YOU'LL NOTICE that pattern tissues are printed with a variety of
symbols and lines that help you lay out the tissue on grain, know where
to place pockets, match seams and more. You must transfer some of this
information to the fabric pieces to aid in the garment construction.
There are a variety of tools and techniques used in transferring
pattern markings onto fabric

Learn more Here>>>>

Technorati Tags: marking pattern pieces, sewing tips, sewing, sewing pattern tips,

Sewing 101 – Just the Basics

2007-11-05T12:32:00.001+10:00

Whenever you are starting out to learn something new, it is always a
challenge. There is so much information online and in books that it can
feel a bit overwhelming at times. However, if you take the time to
start with the very basic information and build your knowledge from
there, then your skills will surely follow.

Some good information here read on>>>>>

Technorati Tags: learn sewing, sewing tips,

2007-07-14T21:11:00.000+10:00

Instructables Weekly Project: Make an iPod Tote Bag--Spring Fling Bling-Bling

2007-07-14T00:06:00.000+10:00

I just found this site, looks very interesting, shows you how to make so many things, click the title below and take a look for yourself.

Instructables Weekly Project: Make an iPod Tote Bag--Spring Fling Bling-Bling: "Weekly Project: Make an iPod Tote Bag--Spring Fling Bling-Bling

You know those iPod tote bags that were all the rage on the morning news shows a couple of years ago? Costing around one hundred bucks, most of those bags seemed more suited for a fashion show rather than slogging music through your daily life.

After that high-societal craze died down, a more fanciful iPod tote bag emerged. While reasonable in cost, some of these bags would be tough to imagine toting around on the street.

Today, edgy designers like Burton have taken the iPod speaker system concept and wrapped it up in a stylish bag that is both practical and functional. This is snowboarder chic. Unfortunately, these 'x-treme' totes can cost near $200.

There has to be a better (read, cheaper) way. And here it is. Your own iPod tote bag for less than sixty bucks. You can take it to the beach, you can pimp your bag, and you can crank it up.

2007-06-06T11:33:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - Make A Cutting Mat That Doesn't Slip

When you are sewing, rotary cutting mats are great for cutting with a rotary cutter. However, when you are cutting slippery fabrics, it is difficult to keep the fabric where you want it.

Here is a sewing tip on how you can make your own non-slip cutting mat.

Create A Cork Top Table

Use cork sheeting as a non-slip cutting mat when you are sewing and cutting silky, slippery fabrics or anytime you are cutting with dressmaker shears. The fabric doesn't move around like it does on the rotary mat. Poke your pins right into the cork to hold your fashion fabric. This is great for tracing patterns, too. Stabbing the pins into the cork holds everything in place.

Find cork sheeting at your local hardware store like Home Depot or Lowes. Wider widths are available there. Craft stores usually carry only narrow widths. Have the hardware store cut the cork to the size of your cutting table.

Draw vertical, horizontal and bias lines on it with permanent marker if you like. Glue a tape measure along the ends for quick measuring.

Cork sheeting is flexible and lightweight. You can roll it up when not in use. Or, keep it on top of or under your rotary cutting mat so that it is handy when you need it. It will keep the rotary mat from slipping on the table if you keep the cork under the rotary mat when not in use.

Another idea is to use cork tiles to create a cork top table.

More Sewing Tips

Raise Your Table Legs

To help prevent back aches, raise your cutting table up higher by placing tall cans like juice cans under each leg. This helps tremendously.

If you want to permanently raise the legs of your table and the legs are tubular, you might try PVC pipe. Put caps on the ends of the pipe or use casters to keep the legs from marking the floor.

Tip! When you are in the middle of sewing a valance or drapery and you decide to line it, but nothing is suitable or large enough in your 'stash,' use the next best thing . .

Steady Your Sewing and Overlock Machines

Use a square of cork sheeting under your overlock-serger or sewing machine to keep it from moving around when you sew. This is also good on the floor to keep your foot pedal from sliding around.

Make A Portable Cork Cutting Mat

Glue some cork sheeting to the backside of your small portable rotary cutting mat so you can take it with you when you go to your sewing classes or travel. Then, you will have both mats available when you need them.

Make A Cork Bulletin Board

Make a cork bulletin board to post your sewing notes, etc. Recycle an old picture frame. Glue cork to a piece of cardboard and frame it.

Or frame the cork with some trim from your stash or glue measure tapes around it or old spools of thread.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor and the creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks. In her ebook, "Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants", find out step-by-step WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern. It just makes sense!

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

Marian is also the author of other eBooks related to sewing including, "Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids" and "Classy Designer Straight Skirt" where she teaches basic and advanced sewing techniques.

Tip! Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor and the creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks. In her ebook, 'Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants', find out step-by-step WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

Subscribe to the free Sewing Success Newsletter at =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/news.html

Sewing enjoying revival among teens

2007-03-09T16:19:00.000+10:00

05:19 PM PST on Thursday, March 8, 2007

By JANET ZIMMERMAN
The Press-Enterprise

It's Saturday morning in Redlands and a dozen teenage girls gathered around sewing machines confidently stitch up beach bags and backpacks and adorn tank tops with their own embellished designs.

Story continues here

2006-11-26T23:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing Machines are Useful Everyday

By Joseph Then

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Did you ever find a shirt or a pair of pants that had the seam ripped out of it? Did you ever sit and think of some of the different types of items that you can and are made with sewing machines? So what would you do, most of us would go to the closet and drag out the sowing machine and fix the seam.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Yet there are many of other things that can be done with it besides fixing your shirt or pants. You could sew some material together to make strips that later would be made into carpets or even make a complete outfit for you or your children. You could even make curtains with it or put embroidery on a coat or hat with them.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

The things that you can do with sewing machines are endless all it takes is a little imagination and creativity plus that material and then nothing is impossible.

This machine has come along way from when it first became available to people. It became more compact and has more features to it. Before they made them more compact for the average person, when you ever needed a name or picture sewn on you jacket, hat, or carpet you would half to go see a specialist to have it done, and pay for the work and materials.

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

But now you can purchase the sewing machines in the stores that will let you do embroideries and do that project and many more out of your own home. That makes the sewing machine a lot more convenient for the average person now a day to get the work done.

There are a lot of people out there that think that a sewing machine is out dated but really they are not because you can do more with one machine than some can do with three or four different machines.

If the average person would think of the money that would be saved if they would fix that pair of pants, shirt, or skirt they would see that a sewing machine is not that bad of an idea after all.

For more information about sewing machines, please check out: http://www.1-sewing-machines.info

2006-11-25T23:13:00.000+10:00

Sewing "All-In-One" Short/Long Formal Dresses

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here is a formal dress that is an all-time classic and still works today. It is a great idea for bridesmaids dresses.

This clever dress actually leads a double life. It's design gives it the unique ability to be worn long to the ankle or as short as you like. It is one that doesn't have to spend most of its life in the closet. It converts into a short length with the drop of a skirt.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

The secret of this simple slender dress is the second skirt which is attached to a half slip of lining and is worn underneath the short dress.

When worn together, they give a tunic like effect. To convert to the short length, the half-slip is removed and with it the attached lower skirt.

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

This idea is not for flared, full or bouffant skirts. But, it works beautifully on slim straight skirts or dresses.

To sew this skirt, you need an additional 1-1/8 yards of the dress or skirt fabric and about 2 yards of 42 inch lining fabric. (Ambiance Bemberg Rayon works well.)

Finish sewing the short dress or short skirt first.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Then sew a long half slip of lining fabric.

1. Use a simple straight skirt pattern that fits you. It should have a center back seam.

2. Add about 12 inches to the length. Plan to finish the lining hem about 2 inches above the ankle.

3. Cut the width of the lining slip the same as the bottom width of your short dress or short skirt.

4. Stitch the side seams at 3/4" rather than 5/8". This will make the slip slightly smaller to fit under the short dress or short skirt.

5. Make a narrow elastic waist or a narrow waist band with a side opening. A zipper is not necessary.

6. Plan to have a slit in the center back seam for walking ease.

7. Try on the short dress and long half-slip.

8. Mark the half-slip 3 inches above the finished lower edge of the dress. This is where you will attach the lower skirt.

The Lower Skirt

1. For the lower skirt, use the dress pattern.

2. Measure 20 inches up from the lower edge of the pattern and mark front and back. Use this lower marked section for your under lower skirt pattern.

3. Stitch the center back seam at 5/8" and leave a slit opening for walking ease.

4. Stitch the lower skirt together making the side seams 3/4" deep.

5. Place right sides together with the bottom of the lower skirt laying up toward the half-slip waist and the top edge of the lower skirt laying along the marked line on the half-slip.

6. Stitch the lower skirt to the half-slip along the marking that is 3 inches above the short length dress.

7. Turn the lower skirt down over the stitched seam.

8. Hem the lower edge to your desired length.

9. Whip the half-slip lining slit to the lower skirt slit to secure.

Enjoy your "All-In-One" short/long formal.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

- by Marian Lewis

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor and the creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks.

In her ebook, "Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants", find out step-by-step WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

For more information, go to:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-24T23:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing A Neat No Bulk Flared Hem

By Marian Lewis

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

When sewing a flared skirt, do you have a problem with a too much bulk in the hem?

Here is the answer for a smooth finish.

Face a circular or flared skirt hem with bias.

Cut a 5-6 inch wide bias strip of organza or light weight lining fabric long enough to fit the lower edge of the skirt.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Piece the strip on the straight of grain of the fabric to create the length you need.

Mark the desired hemline on the skirt with chalk or basting thread.

For medium flared skirts, trim off the lower edge 1-1/2 inches below the marked line.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

For circular flares, trim off 1 inch below the marked line.

Fold the organza/lining fabric strip in half lengthwise with right sides out.

Baste the two bias edges of the strip together.

Slightly stretching the raw edges of the bias, stitch it to the outside of the skirt at the lower edge with raw edges meeting. Do not stretch the hem

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Join the ends of the bias at one side seam of the skirt.

Press the seam toward the bias.

Turn up the hem on the marked line and baste along the lower fold edge.

With the skirt wrong side up, press the bias lightly and gently shape the bias strip to fit inside the skirt.

Pin in place.

Slip stitch the upper fold of the bias to the inside of the skirt. Look how nice and neat it is!

If you are hemming a straight edge, there is no need to stretch the bias.

This is a great technique to use when you hem pleated garments or any heavy fabric to help lessen the bulk and create a nice finished look.

Bernina USA Home Page To learn more about sewing, serging, and embroidery, as well as about Bernina's quality machines, accessories, books, and designs, visit the Bernina USA Web site.

Try it! It just makes sense!

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor and the creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks.

For more information, go to =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

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To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-22T23:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing With Fusible Thread

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here are a few tips and ideas when sewing with fusible thread.

Fill a bobbin (slowly) or use it in your lower looper to simplify multiple tasks. Fusible thread creates a temporary bond to hold things in place while you complete the permanent stitching. It should not be used alone to make permanent seams.

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

For perfect bias binding, use fusible thread in the bobbin. Use a zigzag stitch to join the binding to the garment or quilt. Fold the bias over the edge. Press the edge (do not iron) lightly to enclose it and fuse in place. Now, you can stitch-in-the-ditch or well of the seam to make perfect binding every time.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Install centered zippers easily. Stitch down both sides of the back of the zipper tape with fusible thread in the bobbin. Center the zipper over the basted closed zipper seam allowances. Press in place. Now you can topstitch the zipper without any shifting. Remove the basted stitches to open the seam and zip your zipper.

Fusible thread is ideal when you want to match plaids or a design. With fusible thread on the top of the machine, straight stitch on the right side of the fabric 1/2" from the edge on one side of the seam. Fold this seam over on the 5/8" stitching line. Line up this edge with the 5/8" seam line on the other seam matching the plaid or design. Press and fuse in place. Now, stitch the seam as normal knowing that the design is matched and is held in place.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Use fusible thread when working with fake suede or difficult fabrics to keep them in place when stitching.

Use fusible thread to outline your appliques and fuse in place prior to satin stitching.

Try using it in the lower looper of your serger with a decorative thread in the upper loopers to serge around picture frame placemats.

Lay a length of fusible thread in the crease of your pants or in a pleat to help hold the crease. Cut a length of thread longer than you actually need. It shrinks up when it melts. Press, do not iron, to fuse the thread in the crease.

For a quick and easy turned hem, serge the edge of the fabric with fusible thread in the lower looper. Turn the hem and lightly press to hold. Then, complete your final stitching.

There are many uses for this thread. Try using it for basting and trapunto techniques, too.

Try it! It just makes sense!

Textiles FAQ Part 2 Textiles FAQ Part 2. Archive-name: crafts/textiles/faq/part2 Last-modified: 02 Apr 1997 Part 2 of 2 of the Textiles FAQ (c) All the material in these faqs are copyrighted by the owner of the FAQs (which may change). Free use is encouraged.

Sewing Basics and Projects Learn the basics of sewing and find fun and creative sewing ideas.

For more information, go to =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-21T23:13:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tip - Pre-shape Zippers Before Sewing In Curved Seams

By Marian Lewis

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

Here is a sewing tip to help you when you are sewing a zipper in a curved seam.

Zippers are straight and your fitted garment has curved or shaped seams.

You need to pre-shape your zippers before you insert them into curved seams.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

By pre-shaping the zipper tape, you remove the stiffness of the zipper, make it work easily into a shaped seam and allow it to conform to the body curves without buckling.

Follow this process:

Remove the zipper from the package.

Wet the zipper thoroughly and let it dry to preshrink it.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Press the tapes flat on each side of the metal teeth or nylon coil with a steam iron or with a damp cloth.

NOTE: Be careful when you are pressing near a nylon coil. If the iron is too hot, it will melt the coil.

After the first press, dampen the tapes once again with a damp sponge or wet cloth.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Press the tapes while still damp - one side at a time. This time, stretch the tape and shape into an outward curve while pressing.

Press until dry using the stretching, curving motion.

By shaping the zipper this way, you make it more flexible. When you insert it into a curved seam, it will conform to the curve beautifully.

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Try it! It just makes sense!

1st Step To Sewing Success

Buy Sewing Machines SpecBrands.com is your source for high quality sewing machines.

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To learn more, go to =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-20T23:09:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tip: How To Sew A Flat Zigzag On An Edge

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here is a sewing tip to help all zigzag sewing machine owners learn how to sew. Did you know that you can eliminate rolled up looking edges when you use a zigzag stitch to finish your seams in your sewing?

Here is how to sew a zigzag stitch over an edge and keep it laying flat.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Cut a piece of button and carpet thread or heavy string about 3 inches longer than the length of the seam you want to finish with a zigzag edge.

Then, set your sewing machine for the longest and widest zigzag stitch.

Lay the heavy thread/string just inside the raw edge of your seam allowance leaving about 3 inches extend over the end of the fabric where you will start stitching. This gives you a "tail" to hold on to as you begin your stitching.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Now, zigzag stitch over the heavy thread/string all along the edge of the fabric just like you normally finish your seam edge. You aren't stitching through the heavy thread. You are stitching over it.

The heavy thread/string will not let the fabric edge be stretched and curled up by the presser foot as it stitches along the edge.

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

Pull out the heavy thread/string after you complete your stitching. You can use the same string over again for all your seams.

You will notice after you remove the thread/string that the stitches are laying loosely over the edge and are flat.

This even works on thin, lighter weight fabrics like silk, challis, crepes, etc..

Press lightly and enjoy your flat edges!

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�2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved
1st Step To Sewing Success

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2006-11-19T23:11:00.000+10:00

Sewing Machines Save Money in the Home

By Joseph Then

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The sewing machine is a part of a lot of people's life any more. Yet some of us do not think that it is a good investment. But once you sit down and think about just what you could do with on of the sewing machines now days you would realize that there is a large variety of things that can be done with it.

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The new machines are compact and have a large variety of features with it. The features could include the different types of stitches and even the feature that would allow you to have some kind of writing placed on a garment.

Did you ever think that you could sit down and make a blanket, cloths, or curtains? Well it is possible with a sewing machine, plus it is not that hard. You could even get the kids involved with some of the projects that you would like to do. You never know the kids might even come up with a few projects that they may want to do on the sewing machine themselves.

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You never know, but you may end up buying a sewing machine that you are able to do embroidery on it. Then you could even take on the tasks of doing projects for company's, such as jackets, shirts, or even hats. That is one little way to make a littlie money instead of giving it all to the large companies that are out there charging to do the work.

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The sewing machine makes life easier and does save some money for many people. How, you may as. Its simple instead of throwing cloths away they may take the piece of cloth and be able to replace the seam that may have ripped out or if that is not possible then you could always make something completely new out of the material.

Some people have made carpets or even quilts with one sewing machine instead of throwing out the material. That is how some of the families are able to save some money by not throwing out what can be reused one way or another with just the use of a sewing machine.

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2006-11-17T23:10:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - How To Sew An Easy Centered Zipper

By Marian Lewis

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There are a number of sewing techniques on how to sew a centered zipper. But, this is probably the simplest way to save you from the frustration of having to rip it out and sew it over.

Here are some sewing tips to help you.

First of all, purchase a zipper longer than you actually need to avoid stitching near the bulk of the pull tab. You can use any of your longer zippers in your stash, too.

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Preshrink the zipper. This helps prevent buckling later if the tape does shrink.

Interface the garment zipper seam allowances with a lightweight fusible knit interfacing. Cut 2 strips of fusible knit interfacing about 1" wide on the straight of grain and fuse to the wrong side of the garment zipper area seam allowances.

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Stitch your garment seam from the bottom to the mark where the bottom of the zipper will be.

Stop and drop the feed dog on your sewing machine and stitch up and down in the same place a few stitches to sink a knot. Don't backstitch. You can never backstitch straight and this causes bulk in the seam and never lays well.

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Raise the feed dog and set your sewing machine stitch to a large baste stitch.

Continue stitching the seam to the top. Do not backstitch or make a knot. Leave a long tail of thread so it will be easy to remove.

Clip the first baste stitch beyond the knot for easy removal later.

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Sandwich press the stitched seam. Press open the seam on the wrong side. Then press again on the right side. Use a press cloth to protect your fabric if necessary.

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Now, wind a bobbin with "Fusible Thread" and put it in your sewing machine.

Set your sewing machine stitch length to a large basting stitch.

With the zipper face down at the sewing machine, use your regular presser foot and sew from the bottom of the zipper tape to the top on both sides of the zipper. The edge of the presser foot will be along the zipper teeth on the wrong side of the zipper.

The "Fusible Thread" basting will show up on the right side of the zipper tape.

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Place your garment with the zipper seam allowance side up on your pressing board.

With the zipper face down, place the bottom metal stop of the zipper at the bottom of the zipper opening and roll the teeth down along the stitching line up to the top. Press both sides of the tape fusing the tape to the seam allowances.

Note: If you don't have "Fusible Thread", try using a double sided transparent basting tape or a strip of fusible that you press and adhere to the zipper tape. Then "glue or fuse" the zipper to the seam allowances.

Now the zipper is temporarily held in place.

Cut a strip of 1/2 inch wide paper medical tape or scotch tape the length of the zipper opening.

Draw a fine line exactly down the center of the tape. There should be 1/4 inch on either side of the line.

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On the right side of the garment, place this tape over the zipper seam line matching up the drawn line on the tape with the stitching line on the seam.

Set your sewing machine for top stitching. Put a zipper foot on the machine.

Starting at the bottom of the zipper below the metal stop, stitch across the bottom, stop, pivot and continue stitching up to the top of the zipper using the edge of the tape as your guide to stitch straight.

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Reverse your zipper foot and stitch the other side across the bottom and up from the bottom to the top the same.

Now, your zipper is installed. Remove the paper medical tape from the right side. Pull the basting thread out from the top. It should come out easily since you already clipped the thread next to the knot.

Warning: Do NOT cut off the top of the zipper until after your waistband is completed. Leave the zipper open. Apply your waistband. Then cut off the excess zipper.

You did it! Admire your centered zipper. It is easy when you know the sewing secrets!

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�2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved
1st Step To Sewing Success

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2006-11-15T23:12:00.000+10:00

Sewing Machines To All Types Of Fixes

By Joseph Then

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

When you think about sewing machines what do you think of in terms of the capabilities? Do you think in terms of its varied functions? Or how it can make things easier for you?

Well, when I think about sewing machines I think of some of the things I am going to be able to accomplish with it. I may choose to think about the different items that I am going to be able to fix when I have a sewing machine around or it could be the many different items I am going to be able to make with the use of a sewing machine.

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How many of us really thought about how the sewing machine came about? Not likely. More than likely there was not many of us that really think about where the sewing machine came from. They are just probable aware that they seen their mother or grandmother using one all the time either fixing items that had a small tore or making some complete outfits for their children. Now days the sewing machine is not used as much for making complete outfits for you children or for yourself.

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They are used more for convince such as fixing little tears that you may have noticed on your cloths or for making different quilts and blankets. When you think about making an entire outfit for your children you start to think that there is no way that they are going to wear anything that you have made for them. With some of the children anymore that is going to be true.

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Even if you are not thinking of making an outfit for your children you may think of making different items for around the house. You are able to make simple things like curtains or blankets. If you are feeling a little brave you could even do little more complicated things like some quilts for your home. Yet there are quilt designs out there that are going to give you some ease with the pattern having everything ready for you to sew together.

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No matter what your skill on a sewing machine is you will be able to a little sewing hear and there. As you are practicing with the little stitches you are doing on cloths you will soon be able to accomplish more difficult tasks to try.

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2006-11-14T23:12:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - How To Sew And Recycle Old Pot Holders

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Is your kitchen drawer full of old pot holders that are so scorched and worn looking that you would never want anyone else to see them? Well, don't throw them away yet!

Here is a sewing tip to revitalize them.

Try this "how to sew" sewing lesson and recycle all of your old pot holders by sewing a new cover for them.

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This sewing technique is a good sewing tip to cover other items in your home, too. Sew a cover for your comforters, quilts, placemats and pillows to spark up your home dec.

Here is how to sew a new cover to recycle your old pot holders and make them look brand new again.

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Use some fabric scraps from your stash to match your kitchen decor or look through the remnants at your local fabric store.

Cut off the old pot holder loop or ring if there is one.

Lay out the pot holder on some paper and draw a pattern around it adding a 1/2 inch seam allowance all around the shape of the pot holder. You can save this pattern for future pot holder covers. Label it so you know what the pattern is.

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Using the pattern, cut 2 layers of fabric to make the pot holder cover. You can use 2 different fabrics if you like.

Here are a couple of ways that you can sew this.

Method 1:

Place the 2 right sides of the fabric together.

Sew a 1/2 inch seam around 3 sides of the cover plus go around the corners on the 4th side leaving an opening to insert the pot holder.

Press the seams open.

Turn the cover right side out.

Insert the pot holder in the cover.

Slip stitch or machine stitch the opening closed.

Add a fabric loop or curtain ring if you prefer to hang up your pot holder.

Method 2:

Sandwich the pot holder between the two layers of fabric with the right sides of the fabric facing out.

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Pin to hold all layers together.

Use your zipper foot to stitch close to the edge of the pot holder all around.

Trim the seam allowance to 1/4 inch all around.

Use bias tape or self or contrast fabric strips to bind the edges of the pot holder.

If you like to hang your pot holders, form a loop at the end of the binding to extend from the edge of the pot holder.

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Note: You can quilt these pot holders if you like, however, it really isn't necessary. Experiment with some of your sewing machine's decorative stitches.

Extra sewing tip: Pot holder covers are a great way to use up some of your embroidery or stitching samples that you have in your stash. Give them as gifts or make up some great bazaar items.

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An extra, extra sewing tip: Cut up that old mattress pad to use as the "batting" for some new pot holders and placemats.

Try it! It just makes sense!

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2006-11-13T23:10:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - How To Sew More Professional Looking Top-Stitching

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here is a sewing tip to add to your sewing techniques book.

Learn how to sew more professional looking top-stitching at the sewing machine using your regular sewing thread.

Use the same thread that you used to sew your garment for a matching top-stitching. Or, use a contrasting thread for more definition.

When you top-stitch with a single thread, it seems to sink into your fabric and is not very noticeable.

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For more professional looking top-stitching, try using three threads on the top of the sewing machine.

You don't need to buy three spools of thread to do this.

Just wind three bobbins of sewing thread and place them on the spindle at the top of the sewing machine where you normally place your single spool of thread.

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Try to have your bobbins full to begin top-stitching.

Fill one bobbin as you normally do for the bobbin case.

Thread the bottom bobbin as usual.

Hold the end of each of the top three bobbin threads together in your hand and thread them as one thread through your sewing machine and needle. Moistening the threads first seems to help.

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You may need a needle threader to help you do this. You can find a needle threader in the notions department of your favorite sewing or fabric store or you may already have one in your sewing case.

Set your sewing machine stitch for a longer stitch (about 6 to 8 stitches per inch).

Stitch very slowly and straight. Use a stitching guide or tape to help you if you need it.

This makes a very elegant top-stitch. Try it!

Stitch multiple rows about 1/8 inch apart for a high quality look.

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Contrasting thread adds more definition. Try using white or a metallic gold or silver thread on a dark fabric or a darker shade of thread on a light fabric. Experiment on scraps to get the look you want.

Check out the finest ready-to-wear boutiques for more top-stitching ideas.

You are the designer! Have fun with top-stitching.

Three threads are better than one!

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2006-11-11T23:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing Technique - How To Sew A Spa Wrap Or Beach Cover-Up

By Marian Lewis

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Discover how to sew a spa wrap or beach cover-up with this simple sewing lesson.

Spa wraps are great gift ideas or bazaar items, too.

Sew spa wraps for all the men, women and children in your family. Everyone needs one. Use for after the shower, bath, or when you do your hair or at the spa or pool or the beach.

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Spa wraps have elasticized tops that can be worn above the bust or at the waist.

Sewing a spa wrap is a quick and easy sewing project. All you need is a beach towel, approximately 1-1/4 yards of 1 inch to 1-1/4 inch wide sport sew through elastic and about 6 inches of hook and loop tape or large snaps.

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Here is the how to sew instructions.

First of all, make a decision about what you want to use to sew the spa wrap. Colorful beach towels are great to use as well as fabric. Your choice may be based on what size you need the spa wrap to be.

Smaller towels work well for small children.

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Lighter weight towels work better than heavier ones. They aren't as bulky to sew or wear and also dry faster.

Sewing Tip: Always preshrink all fabrics including towels before you sew.

The average beach towel is about 62 inches long x 34 inches wide. Find some good bargains at your local flea market.

The length of the beach towel will generally go around most bodies with some over lap. If you need more, sew 2 towels together or add half a towel.

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Cut a piece of 1 inch to 1-1/4 inch wide sturdy sport sew through elastic to be about 2/3 of the length of the towel or fabric that you are using. This depends on the stretch of the elastic.

Example: For a 62 inch long towel, cut the elastic about42 inches long.

Divide the towel and the elastic into eighths. First fold in half, then again in fourths, then again in eighths. These smaller sections are easier to handle at the sewing machine.

Pin the elastic at the eighth marks to one long edge on the wrong side of the towel.

Set your sewing machine for your largest and longest zigzag stitch.

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As you stitch, stretch the elastic to fit each pinned section of the towel.

First stitch along the outer edge of the elastic and then go back and stitch along the inner edge of the elastic also stretching as you sew.

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If you prefer, you can sew a lightweight fabric casing to the wrong side of the towel and insert the elastic drawing it up to fit the size you want.

Cut two strips of hook and loop tape about 3" long.

Pin the rough (hook) side of one strip to the inside edge of the overlap on top of the elastic.

Stitch around the hook tape to hold securely.

Pin the soft (loop) side of one strip to the outside edge on the right side of the underlap.

Stitch around that tape.

Now place the corresponding pieces of hook and loop tape up against the stitched in place pieces of tape.

Put the wrap on your body to help determine where to sew the corresponding pieces of tape.

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Pin those pieces where they should go and unhook them from the stitched tapes. Remove the wrap.

Stitch around these tapes where you have them pinned.

WOW! You just made a spa wrap!

Now, for some designer touches, try these ideas:

Add a large pocket cut from contrasting or matching fabric or even mesh fabric on the front.

Monogram or use one of your embroidery designs on the pocket before applying it to the wrap.

You could bind the outer edges of towel with fabric to match the pocket.

If you decide to bind the outer edges of the towel, round the square corners first. It looks better and is easier to bind. See the following sewing tip to make a nice curve.

Sewing Tip: Lay a dinner plate down at the corners of the towel lining up the edges of the plate with the edges of the towel. Draw the outer curve of the plate to get a very nice even curve.

If you are using a plain towel, add a fun embroidery design using instructions to embroider on terry cloth to decorate your wrap.

Applique a unique design on the spa wrap.

If you prefer not to use hook and loop tape, use very large snaps or heavy duty gripper snaps to hold the wrap closed.

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You are the designer! Have fun with it!

It just makes sense!

�2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved
1st Step To Sewing Success

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2006-11-10T23:10:00.000+10:00

Lessons I've Learned from Sewing Teddy Bears

By Michelle Yau

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Normally all of creativity is dedicated to running my jewelry business, Trinity London. However, in recent months, I've decided to try my hand at sewing, specifically making teddy bears. Since I only attempted any type of sewing within the past few months, I have learned many things in the process that I thought I would share.

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Lesson 1a:

If you think your cat or dog sheds too much, making a stuffed animal is not for you.

Lesson 1b:

People coming into your house while you are making a teddy bear may think you have sacrificed your pets as part of a cult ritual when they see the amount of fur on the floor.

Lesson 1c:

If your significant other is not attracted to hairy chests, it's probably best to wear something over your clothes.

Lesson 1d:

Even if you bought the fur there in the first place, the people at the craft store will look at you strangely if you don't use a lint roller (or a vacuum... or just burn the clothes and change into something new entirely) before you make a quick stop at the store to pick up that one piece you are missing.

Lesson 1e:

Expect to find stray pieces of fur in odd places (i.e. - on the light switch, the curtains, the shower, etc.) as it clings to everything.

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Lesson 2a:

Slightly furry reversible fleece fabric makes it much easier to see where you are sewing.

Lesson 2b:

Slightly furry reversible fleece fabric is so thick that it will make your sewing machine buck like a bronco in a rodeo.

Lesson 2c:

It is easier to pierce your thumb with the eye of the needle when attempting hand sewing than it is to pierce two layers of slightly furry reversible fleece fabric with the sharp point of the needle.

Lesson 2d:

When your mother suggests using slightly furry reversible fleece fabric to make a teddy bear because it reminds her of the fabric used on bears when she was younger, pretend not to hear her while swiftly walking away from the slightly furry reversible fleece fabric.

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Lesson 3a:

If you didn't need to pin the section of fabric you are sewing, but it is still staying together, it is most likely on a fold and you shouldn't be sewing there.

Lesson 3b:

The person who designed the pattern put those marks on the pattern for a reason.

Lesson 3c:

It takes a lot longer to remove stitches than to sew them in the first place.

Lesson 4a:

When making a jointed teddy bear, if you use plastic safety joints, be sure they are placed exactly where you want them before attaching the lock washer.

Lesson 4b:

Asking your husband to remove a safety joint after the lock washer has been attached may result in an unexpected flathead screwdriver injury.

Lesson 4c:

It is best not to laugh hysterically at your husband's unexpected flathead screwdriver injury, as he will probably not find it as humorous as you.

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Lesson 5:

If your cat is a bit skittish, she may impale your loved ones with her claws when she sees you walking into the room with a 2' tall stuffed grizzly bear.

Lesson 6:

If you have a child, take a picture of your completed project before you show him/her because you may never see it again.

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I hope you have learned a little from my lessons... not that I would have made any of those mistakes myself.

When she is not making disastrous attempts at sewing, Michelle Yau is the owner of Trinity London, a jewelry business specializing in awareness ribbon bracelets, rosary bracelets, and other handcrafted beaded jewelry.

2006-11-08T23:13:00.000+10:00

2 Sewing Techniques On How To Sew A Reversible Vest

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

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Here are two sewing techniques plus some good sewing tips on how to sew a reversible vest or a lined vest. One is stitched and turned; the other is stitched and bound.

Try both to help you determine your favorite sewing technique.

For both methods, follow these cutting and sewing instructions:

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Choose similar weight fabrics for a reversible vest.

Preshrink all fabrics and interfacing.

Interface the vest with a fusible knit interfacing.

Test the interfacing on a scrap of fabric first to make sure it will be OK.

Depending on the fabric, you may choose to interface both of the fronts and back of the vest.

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Note: You may want to interface the fabric and then cut the vest pieces out of the interfaced fabric.

Carefully cut two fronts and one back from each fabric.

Make sure the front and back vest pieces are the same size in both fabrics after you cut them out. Lay one over the other to check it.

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Apply any pockets or designs to each front and back layer.

For each layer:

Place right sides of the fabric together and stitch the front and back shoulder seams together. Do NOT backstitch.

Instead begin and end each seam with short stitches (18-20 per inch) for about 1 to 1-1/2 inches.

Sandwich press the seams.

Press the seams open.

At the neck and shoulder point of the shoulder seam, trim the shoulder seam allowance back at an angle for about 1-1/2 inch to eliminate bulk when the neck and armhole seams are made.

Also trim the shoulder seams of one of the layers to be just slightly less than the other layer to stagger or grade the seams when they lay on top of each other.

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Continue with either Method I or Method II to finish the vest.

Method I - How To Sew To Complete A Stitched And Turned Reversible Vest

Place the two vests right sides together.

Note: Generally, when sewing a lined vest, it is a good idea to trim off about 1/8 inch from the lining before attaching it to the outer layer. This keeps the lining from showing on the outside when the vest is worn.

For a reversible vest, you may or may not want to do this.

If a bit of one of the layers shows on one of the sides, it may look like narrow piping. You are the designer. Create the look you want.

Stitch the vests armhole edges together using short stitches (18-20 stitches per inch) all the way.

Sandwich press these seams.

Press the seams open.

Trim the armhole seams to 1/8 inch seam allowance. The short stitches will hold this seam.

If this is a lined vest, understitch the armhole seams and all of the other seams as well. If it is reversible, you may not want the understitching to show on the edge.

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After the armholes are finished, place the two right sides of the vest back together again lining up all the edges. Pin to hold the layers.

Stitch the front and neckline together.

Begin stitching about 2 inches from the side seam on the bottom of the front and stitch across the bottom of the front, up the center front and around the neck and down on the other side of the front stopping about 2 inches from the other side seam.

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Use a regular stitch length to stitch across the bottom of the front and up the front. Change to a short stitch length to stitch the curve around the neck.

Sandwich press the seam.

Press the seam open.

Trim the curved area around the neck to 1/8 inch.

Trim the rest of the seam to 1/4 inch.

Hold the scissors at an angle when you trim to help layer or grade the seam allowances or use "duckbill" scissors to help do this.

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Sewing Tip: Always stagger the edges of seam allowances when they end up laying on top of each other in a finished garment.

Turn the vest right side out by pulling the fronts through the shoulders one side at a time.

Press well setting the seam lines exactly on the edge.

With right sides together, match the armhole seams and pin exactly through the stitching line to hold one on top of the other.

Stitch the side seams of both layers in one continuous step carefully walking the needle over the underarm pin.

Sandwich press the seam.

Press the seam open.

You may want to leave the full seam allowance here in case you have to let the vest out sometime.

Now, you have the bottom of the back open and about 2 inches on either side of the side seam toward the front.

Turn right sides together matching up the side seams. Put a pin exactly in the line of stitching in the side seams to hold one on top of the other.

Starting at one front side where you stopped stitching previously, stitch across the bottom until you come to about 2 inches from the next side seam pin and stop leaving about a 4 inch opening on that side.

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Sandwich press the seam.

Press the seam open.

Press under the unstitched seam allowances as though they were stitched.

Trim and grade the seam allowances to about 1/4 inch.

Turn the vest right side out through the 4 inch opening at the side lower edge. This opening is better than having the opening in the middle of the center back. It isn't as noticeable.

Press well again.

At the opening, turn in and line up the edges.

To finish this opening, slip stitch it closed by hand or place a narrow strip of fusible web and fuse it closed.

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If desired, topstitch the vest 1/4 inch from the edges.

Make buttonholes on both sides of the vest.

Sew 2 buttons together making a thread shank in between them. Use these double buttons through both buttonholes like cuff links. You can even use 2 different buttons as
long as they are the same size to fit through the holes.

Method II

Another method to finish your reversible vest is to sew each vest with shoulder seams and side seams.

path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!bloom-beacon.mit.edu!news Includes charters of the groups, lists of sources, info on quiling groups and info on natural fabrics.

Place the vests with wrong sides together.

Stitch 3/4 inch all around the armholes and the outer edges of the vest holding the 2 layers together.

Trim off 5/8 inch all around.

Bind all the outside edges either with self fabric, contrasting fabric, or a fold over trim or braid to finish.You can even use a decorative serged edge to finish the vest.

This is fast and easy!

It's your choice. You are the designer!

Enjoy your vest!

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

1st Step To Sewing Success

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-07T23:10:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - Sew Buttons and Bows for Kids

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here is a novel idea on how to sew and create your own decorative buttons and bows on kids' clothes.

Sewing for kids is a lot of fun. It is a great way to try new ideas and sewing techniques, too. If you don't have your own special child to sew for, then sew things for kids and give them to charity. It is still a gift of love and the kids really appreciate something made just for them.

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Try the buttons and bows for kids. It really is cute and the kids love it!

Bows are really popular on kids garments, but they don't hold up well in the laundry. So, here is how to sew some easy detachable bows.

This idea grew into a delightful sewing project that involved the kids, too. Kids have great imaginations and a lot of really good creative ideas on what they want to wear.

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These buttons are called Velcro Button Bows/Flowers/Appliques. The kids call them "Stick-em Buttons". They think these buttons are really "cool". They love to change the "tops" of the buttons.

Here is how to sew "Stick-em Buttons."

Sew the buttons at the shoulders of jumpers or overalls, on pockets or randomly scattered on jeans, tee shirts, skirts or other garments. The buttons can be functional or purely decorative.

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Use up those old buttons in your button box. Paint the rim of the button with nail polish or craft paints if you like. The large, flat buttons are perfect for this sewing project. Buttons about 7/8 inch or larger work well.

First, sew a button onto the garment. Use double thread. Run it through beeswax and press it to melt the wax into the thread. This strengthens the thread and keeps it from tangling.

After sewing on a button, apply a drop of clear nail polish or Fray Check to the button threads to keep them secure.

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Prepare the Velcro

Using a coin, draw a circle the size of the button onto some Velcro or use sticky Velcro circles. If the button has a rim, draw the Velcro circle to fit inside the button rim.

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Glue the soft side of a Velcro circle to the top of the button that you stitched to the garment.

Next, sew some bows, ribbon flowers or small appliques or use pom poms, etc. For boys, use small appliques of their favorite animals, cars, toys, etc.

Fuse, glue or sew the rough hook side of a Velcro circle to the underside of the bow/flower/applique, etc.

Button the button and stick the bow, etc. to the top of the button.

Make several different kinds of bows in different colors or whatever you like to have a selection of things to attach to your "Stick-em Buttons".

Remove the bows to launder the garment. The soft loop side of the Velcro doesn't stick to everything else in the wash.

The kids will have fun with their "Stick-em Buttons!"

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
�2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved
1st Step To Sewing Success

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

To discover sewing and fitting secrets to achieve sewing success, follow the link http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com

2006-11-06T23:09:00.000+10:00

Why Sew? This Is My "I Can" For Sewing - What's Yours?

By Carmel Baird

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This is my "I Can" for sewing my own clothes, do you have an "I Can"?

People often say to me, "Why sew when you can buy clothing so reasonably?'

Well my answer to that is�.

When I sew for myself
I can get the fit right. Not everyone, actually very few really, are the stock standard measurements you find on the racks.

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Have you noticed how each year "they" seem to change the sizing?

When I sew for myself
I can make it in the colors that suit me and I prefer, not the colors the manufacturer decides.

When I sew for myself
I can make it in the fabrics I like, better quality, better fabrics, I can use natural fibres that breathe in our hot summers and keep me warmer in the winters.

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When I sew for myself
I can have an individual style but still keep in the fashion trend for the season, I don't like to see myself coming or walk into a room and there is my "twin", if you know what I mean.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

When I sew for myself
I can afford to make up my basics in good quality fabrics and get that good line and fit.

When I sew for myself
I can save so much money by doing all of the above.

So that is my "I Can" list what's yours?

Even if you don't think your sewing is good enough, the way to correct that is to practice, keep at it and in no time you will find you have improved. Start with simpler styles, there is nothing like a classic style and they are less fussy, good fitting and always wearable.

You may find there are techniques you are not sure of, you can find many of these in my eGuide SewMoreForU.

CTBaird, Author of Sew More For U, a DIY Sewing eGuide. Get great sewing tips and techniques, http://www.sewmoreforu.com/patterns.html
http://www.sewmoreforu.com/sewingbook.html

2006-11-05T23:35:00.000+10:00

Discover The Power Of Sewing Machines

By Joseph Then

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

It's unbelievable how sewing machines can have an impact on your life. Without a sewing machine, there are no clothes to wear and you have to throw away for favorite clothes when there is a slight tear.

With all the technology that is out there you may not even think of using a sewing machine any more to make cloths or even to fix them. If you were to think about it when you use a sewing machine to fix some of your cloths that have a small rip in them you can really save a large amount of money in the long run.

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If you are able to fix all those small rips and tears you are not going to be throwing out a lot of cloths that are repairable. Then if you are not throwing them out you are not going to need to spend more money to replace all the cloths that you did pitch out the door. To some people pitching out some ripped cloths is an advantage so that they have a good reason to go to the store to buy more cloths for their wardrobe.

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If you are one of the many people that have a sewing machine and choose not to use it for some of the small tasks at hand then you may want to think about making a few different items with it. You are able to make some Halloween costumes with a sewing machine and then you are not going to end up spending lots of money on an item that you or your kids are only going to wear for one night of the year and probable never wear it again. If you were to figure out what it cost to buy a costume or even rent one and them compare it to making your own costume you are going to see that it does cost less to make the costume in the end.

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With some of the technology that the sewing machines have now you are even able to purchase a sewing machine that can do embroidery on almost any material. If you are one of the ones that have a machine that does embroidery machine you are going to be able to personalize your coats and maybe some hats for yourself and your family if your wish.

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In conclusion, it will be nice to have a sewing machine at home. However small it may be, it's a handy item.

Learn more about sewing machines for free and why you should have one at:
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2006-11-02T23:57:00.000+10:00

Sewing Thread

By Stacy McDougall

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

What kind of sewing thread should I use? This is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer is simple, and difficult, at the same time.

The first thing to decide is what fiber to use. Rayon, polyester, cotton, silk, or metallic? All have their pros and cons, but basically it comes down to personal preference. I believe in using whatever threads work for your project. If it works well in your machine, and you like the effect you get while using it, then don't hesitate, enjoy it! Don't let the sewing "police" tell you what you should or should not use in your project. As odd as it sounds, sewing machines have preferences too. So experiment, and don't be afraid to use a particular thread just because it's not "made for that".

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Polyester Thread

Polyester is far and away the most popular thread for general sewing. It is a very strong economical thread. Polyester thread won't fade or shrink in the wash.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

The luster, or sheen, of polyester thread falls between that of cotton and rayon. A medium luster thread, it is suitable for almost any sewing project.

Polyester threads do have some give or stretch to them.

Polyester threads are available in a wide range of solid and variegated colors. The most popular thread size for sewing is 50wt, but many other weights are used depending on the project.

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Cotton Thread

100% cotton sewing thread is the traditional choice. Cotton is a natural thread that gives a soft, matte look.

Cotton thread is available in a wide range of weights, and is suitable for most sewing projects. 40wt and 50wt are the most common, but cotton threads range from 8wt to 100wt.

Cotton thread does not stretch a great deal, and will break if pulled too tightly. Cotton threads will fade with the sun, and shrink in the wash, so treat them as you would cotton fabrics.

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Most cotton threads sold now are mercerized. This is a chemical and heat process that increases the luster of the thread. During the mercerizing process, fuzzy threads are burned off, creating a smoother surface. This smooth surface reflects light, increasing the luster of the thread. It also has the effect of increasing water absorbency, making the thread easier to dye.

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Long staple cotton is finer and stronger than regular cotton. Most high quality threads are made with long staple cotton, creating a softer, stronger, higher luster thread. Long staple threads tend to have fewer slubs, lumps of lint spun into the cotton threads.

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3 Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3

Silk Thread

Silk is an elastic, though very strong, sewing thread, and is among the most beautiful of natural fibers. It has a high sheen, and creates a distinctive look when used in sewing projects. Silk threads are used in many high quality sewn garments.

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Pure filament silk is the highest quality silk, as the fibers do not need to be spun; they come naturally in long strands from the silkworm.

Spun silks are made of shorter fibers. They come from broken cocoons or the beginning and end of cocoons.

Silk thread, and projects created with silk thread can be gently washed in the washing machine with a mild soap. Bleaching agents should not be used as they can damage the threads.

Rayon Thread

Rayon is a high sheen sewing thread, and often used as a lower cost alternative to silk threads. It performs well in high-speed sewing machines without breaking or fraying.

Most Rayon threads are available in 40wt, though 30wt can be found without effort. A wide range of colors and shades are available, including variegated colors.

Though some brands can be, rayon threads are not generally colorfast. It is best to avoid using any bleaching agents, including those made for colors.

Stitches sewn with Rayon threads create a very smooth consistent stitch, leading to a higher quality project.

Rayon threads do deteriorate over time, so attention should be paid to how it is stored. In low humidity regions, rayon threads can be stored in the refrigerator to extend thread life for a long as possible.

In most cases, when it comes to sewing thread, you get what you pay for. Good thread will stand up to high-speed machines without breaking or shredding. Bargain bin threads are inexpensive, but of poor quality, and will cost you in time and frustration.

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Have fun, and don't be afraid to experiment with thread.

About the Author
Stacy McDougall's company, Red Rock Threads sells quilting, sewing and embroidery thread online. View the Sewing Thread that Red Rock Threads has to offer.

2006-11-01T01:26:00.000+10:00

Are Your Kids Saying, "I'm Bored?" Teach Them Some Sewing Skills This Summer

By Carol Boles

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

I've been sewing since I was a teenager and still do. Over the years I've made everything from curtains to quilts - even the purses I carry. Summer has barely begun, even so you've probably already heard, "I'm bored." So, why not introduce your older children to sewing while teaching them a skill they will use the rest of their lives.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

I encourage parents to not only teach their daughters but also include their sons in sewing lessons. My son used to ask, "Why don't you show me how to use the sewing machine?" He's always interested in what I'm sewing and eager to participate. Really, he's not particularly unusual, since so many famous fashion designers are men.

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Here are a few reasons I think sewing skills are important for children to learn:

Assembling any kind of garment or completing a sewing craft project requires reading instructions. Learning to read a pattern and it's accompanying directions teaches children how to read sequential instructions.

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Sewing involves math. Children will learn how to figure the amount of yards (of material) needed for a particular project and then accurately measure them out using either a ruler or tape measure.

Sewing teaches children about different kinds of fabrics. As your children learn about fabrics they will learn how different fabrics are laundered. This naturally leads them into lessons on how to operate the washer and dryer and how to take care of their clothing.

Ironing is a companion skill to sewing. As your children learn to sew a garment or craft project they will be introduced to ironing because it is usually required during and after construction.

www.newsville.com Services and. accounts: About USENET Newsgroups. Newsville Members. Newsgroup FAQ's: news.answers/crafts/textiles/books/part1. Bibliography of books on sewing, fitting, pattern drafting and a few other (sewing) subjects.

As your children become proficient at sewing they will be able repair pieces of their clothing. They will be able sew up torn seams and hem garments on perfectly good pieces of clothing which otherwise might have been thrown out or given away.

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3 Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3

Don't worry if you don't sew or own a sewing machine. Many fabric and quilt shops offer summer sewing camps for boys and girls. Classes are held once a week, for several weeks, where children are taught basic skills and complete a simple sewing project.

Break the summer boredom blues and teach your children a skill they can use the rest of their lives. They're going to be so proud of their finished products, and the best part, you're spending quality time with your children.

path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!bloom-beacon.mit.edu!news Includes charters of the groups, lists of sources, info on quiling groups and info on natural fabrics.

Carol Boles has a master's degree in Special Reading and an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has more than ten years experience teaching K-12 reading in public schools. She now manages her own business and is a member of The Lieurance Group, a freelance writer's cooperative. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.teacherspetplace.blogspot.com or email her Cwrites-56@hotmail.com.

2006-10-24T22:12:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips: Sewing and Recycling Sheets Into Beautiful Home Dec Items

By Marian Lewis

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Sewing and recycling sheets into beautiful home dec items is a great way to decorate your home on a shoe string budget! It is really fun and easy to do sewing projects.

Recycle old or use new sheets in all of your sewing whether making garments or home dec items.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

When you are in the middle of sewing a valance or drapery and you decide to line it, but nothing is suitable or large enough in your "stash," use the next best thing . . . an old sheet. There is plenty of fabric in a sheet and you are probably never going to use that spotted or torn or stretched out old sheet as a sheet anymore anyway.

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Think about recycling some of your old sheets for linings and underlinings, etc. in your garments, too. Use old sheets to sew lots of things from pajamas and skirts to Halloween costumes and ironing board covers.

Sheets are a great source of extra wide fabric and ideal for a lot of home decorating projects too.

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In fact, after the kids go back to school, why not redecorate your bedroom and bathroom with some new coordinated decorator sheets you can get when they go on sale. Sew a new shower curtain, window curtains, a table cover, throw pillows, shams, a duvet cover, bed skirt, lampshade cover, tissue box cover, etc. Who knows, you might even want to cover the seat on a vanity stool and decorate some towels with bands of fabric to help tie everything together. The possibilities are endless. These are quick and easy sewing projects. So, try it!

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Speaking of kids, how about using sheets to decorate the college kids' dorm rooms? Don't forget! They always need laundry bags! The guys might love a sports theme.

Expecting a baby? Sew up nursery room items for the new little one. Let the toddlers, juveniles, and teens choose their own themes for their rooms. They love it!

Get creative and sew up some fun!

It just makes sense!

path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!bloom-beacon.mit.edu!news ... These FAQs are not to be reused for profit. This copyright must be kept with the FAQ used in it's entirety.

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

Subscribe to the free Sewing Success Newsletter at:

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2006-10-23T22:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing Buttons

By Seth Miller

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Sewing is a time-honored craft and a popular pastime. Buttons are an important part of sewing. Buttons are not only used for fastening clothes but also for embellishing them. No kind of sewing is complete without sewing buttons. It is very important to use the buttons that not only complement the design of the sewn clothes but also go well with the color and the fabric.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Sewing buttons can very well exemplify the adage �great things come in small packages'. People, who enjoy sewing, invariably love sewing buttons. Sewing buttons are of various kinds like toggle buttons, clasps and shank buttons. They are made of a range of material including ceramic, clay, glass, pewter and plastic. In addition, they come in various shapes and sizes. There are specific sewing buttons for specific kind of clothing. Cute buttons fashioned as animals and cartoon characters are perfect for children's clothing. Then there are certain sewing buttons that are most suitable for bridal wear and those that are suitable for formal apparel. Sewing buttons make sewing an interesting and fun activity. The mere act of choosing the right buttons for the sewn clothes doubles the joy of sewing.

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In addition to buying from the wide variety available in the market sewing enthusiasts can also get buttons tailor-made to suit their specific requirements. They can be custom-made to match the design and pattern of the clothes to be sewn.

If you love sewing, then make the best use of the little marvels called sewing buttons. Pick the perfect buttons for your garments and become the envy of high-profile fashion designers.

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Buttons provides detailed information on Buttons, How To Sew A Button, Sewing Buttons, Antique Buttons and more. Buttons is affiliated with Rubber Wristbands .

2006-10-22T22:08:00.000+10:00

Where You Can Save Money With Your Sewing

By Carmel Baird

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

Everyone likes to save money. With your sewing, it is easier to do than you might think. And�think about this, the more you save, the more you will have put aside when you want that special fabric or that new sewing machine.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Here are a few ideas to help you save money with your sewing that you may not have thought of.

Save buttons, zippers etc from clothing that has worn out. Keep a sectioned container and store these items, you will be surprised how often you can recycle.

Always check the remnant table when in your fabric store, you will find some great bargains. Often times you can combine like colors in prints, stripes and plain fabrics into an outfit, and all from the remnant table.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

With the cute tops around, like the camisole styles, they take little fabric so the remnant table is often a great place to find fabric for these.

You often see the plain color singlet style tops on sale, these can be made individual for just you, with beads, appliqu�s, braiding, cording, embroidery, once again, your imagination can have a party.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

End of season pattern sales are a great place to stock up on patterns, they can go at very reasonable prices, great savings.

If you buy end of season fabrics when they are on sale, you will have them to start your next wardrobe for next season. You will be a "season ahead" so to speak.

Check out the Manchester stores and soft furnishings. I use a lot of soft furnishing fabric, mainly because they are different and you rarely see them made up into fashion garments.

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When flat sheets are on sale, they usually are really fantastic prices, they can make up into wonderful curtains, or join two to make a duvet/quilt cover, sew around the edges, leave one end open, add buttons and buttonholes and �.viola!!! a new quilt cover and matching curtains. They can also be made into a couch throws. Your imagination will have a wonderful time with what you can do

When interior design shops have to replace their sample ranges, many of these samples are just the right size for throw cushions and other craft items. It only takes a question and they can only say "yes or no". If they say yes, you are a winner. If they say no, then ask the next design shop you find.

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3 Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 1 of 3. Archive-name: crafts/textiles/books/part1 Last-modified: 5 Sep 1996 The following is the third of three lists of Frequently Asked Questions for the alt.sewing and rec.crafts.textiles.* groups.

Check out the shops that have a rewards system. If you join as a member, when you have spent a certain amount you qualify for a discount on your purchases. See if you have one with this offer near you and take advantage of it. If there isn't one, why not suggest it to your favorite supplier.

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3 Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3

I hope these tips have given you some ideas, so start saving money with your sewing, it's all in the planning.

� CTBaird 2006 SewMoreForU

About The Author
CTBaird, Author of Sew More For U, a DIY Sewing Companion. Get great sewing tips and techniques, sign up for Sewing Tips Extra http://www.sewmoreforu.com/nsp.html
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2006-10-19T22:08:00.000+10:00

Sewing Is A Great Kids Craft

By Marian Lewis

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Sewing is a great kids craft. Kids love to sew and show what they accomplished. They are very proud of their sewing projects and other creations.

Whether it is sewing or any other craft that you teach or share with your child, even if it is coloring, drawing, cutting and pasting, it is time well spent.

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If you want to really spend some quality time with your kids and grandkids, turn off the TV and do some kids crafts or sew with them. It is great therapy for all ages. The added bonus is the treasured memories that you create for both of you.

Whether you are planning a kid party or homeschooling, babysitting, teach a Sunday School Class or just want to keep the kids entertained, there are a number of sewing and kid craft resources to help you be successful and make a real "hit" with the kids.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Kids sewing and kids craft books are a great gift idea, too.

Check out a few suggestions on the website at 1st Step To Sewing Success. You will find them at: http:/www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/recommends.html

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Sewing and kids crafts are a sure-fired way to bond with your kids. Sew or make something together today! Have fun!

It just makes sense!

Sewing Supplies from Sew-ciety Sewing supplies, quilting patterns, sewing machine repair and more. We even offer sewing classes where you can learn to sew.

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3 Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

Subscribe to the free Sewing Success Newsletter at:

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2006-10-18T22:18:00.000+10:00

Finding Deals On Fabric For Your Sewing Projects

By Susanne Myers

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

If you love to sew and work on different projects, you are always on the lookout for a great deal on fabric. And if you are just starting out, you don't want to spend a lot on fabric in case you make a mistake and have to start over. Here are some of my favorite ways to shop for great deals on fabric.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Fabric Store

Fabric stores often have fabrics that are out of season, remnants and older fabric on sale. Just stop in the fabric store every few weeks and browse through the clearance bin. If you buy your Christmas fabric in the spring or summer, you can get great deals.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Also keep an eye open for storewide sales that are usually announced in your local newspaper. If your store is getting ready to get new fabric in, current fabric stock is often reduced to make room for the new stuff.

Yard Sales

Yard sales are a great way to get lots of fabric at a fraction of what you would pay in fabric store. Keep your eyes open when you go to yard sales. Sometimes the seller will mention fabric in their yard sale ad, but also look for ads that mention quilting and crafting.

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Online Stores

Most of the larger fabric and craft chain stores now have online stores as well. In addition you will find fabric stores that are exclusively online. Since these online stores don't have the overhead of a brick and mortar store, you can often get any fabric for less. Look for sales and coupons as well.

EBay

You can buy just about anything on eBay, including fabric. Just browse through their craft section once a week or so and you will soon find deals on any type of fabric you may be looking for.

Just keep your eyes open and you will find all sorts of deals on fabric. You may not always find exactly what you are looking for, but if you buy a few yards here and there you'll soon have a great stash of fabrics for almost any project you come across.

Sewing Trims at MJtrim.com Excellent source for trim for sewing - fringe, ribbons, lace, braids, cords, tassels, buttons, rhinestones and much more. M&J offers a superb selection on and offline.

For more information on sewing and embroidery visit http://www.sewingandembroidery.info

2006-10-17T22:08:00.000+10:00

Tips For Buying A Sewing Machine Online

By Susanne Myers

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You can get some great deals on sewing machines when you purchase them online. Companies that sell them don't have to worry about the overhead of a brick and mortar store and you get the convenience of having the sewing machine shipped to your front door.

Know What You Want

The drawback of buying anything online is that you can't see it in person, give it a try and get a feel for the quality of the item, including a sewing machine. I prefer to browse through the local stores and find the model I want before I go online to find a great deal on it. You may want to find a few comparable machines that you will consider buying and then start your online search for the best deal.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Buy From A Reputable Source

Buy your machine from a reputable source. You want to make sure that what you are buying is the genuine item and in perfect condition. Remember, you want be able to look at the actual machine before you buy. All you get is a stock picture and an item description.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Return Policy

In case there is an issue with the machine, it's not working, wasn't what you expected or was damaged in shipping; you need to check out the online store's return policy before you buy. Pay attention to how long you have to return the item for a refund and make sure you thoroughly check out the machine in that timeframe. Most stores will have a 30-day return policy. Will you be responsible for shipping charges to return the item to the store, or will the store cover it? Having to ship the sewing machine across country to return it could get quite expensive.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Shipping Costs

Since we are on the topic of shipping costs, pay attention to how much each company charges for shipping and handling when you are comparison shopping. You may get what seems like a great deal on the sewing machine, but then pay much more for shipping and handling than you would have at a different store.

Use common sense and do your homework while you shop for a sewing machine online and you can get a great deal on a machine that is perfect for you and have it delivered to your front door.

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For more great tips on sewing machines as well as sewing and embroidery tips visit http://www.sewingandembroidery.info

2006-10-16T22:07:00.000+10:00

Sewing A Quick And Easy Camisole

By Marian Lewis

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

Camisoles are popular basic wardrobe items for all sizes and ages. Wear them alone or under a jacket or shirt. Camisoles can be dressy or casual depending on the fabric.

Add some pizazz to your wardrobe by sewing camisoles.

No sewing pattern is necessary. This camisole is very softly gathered across the chest. It is really a simple tube top.

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Here is how to sew a camisole.

Cut the fabric:

Determine how long you want the finished camisole to be. Add a hem allowance at the bottom and a casing allowance at the top (depends on the size of your elastic).

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Measure around the fullest part of your bosom. Add three inches (depending on the fabric weight and the amount of gathers desired) to that plus two seam allowances for the center back seam.
Sew the camisole:

1. Sew the center back seam.
2. Sew the hem.
3. Sew a casing around the top edge.
4. Insert soft mesh elastic.

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

Great - now you know how to sew a camisole. Isn't that easy?

Sewing Tip: Add some trim to the casing to dress up your camisole and make it more interesting. Add the trim before you insert the elastic. If you don't have enough to go all the way around the camisole, just add the trim to the front where it shows. This is a terrific way to use up short pieces of trim in your stash.

Here is a great sewing tip for those of you who prefer to wear a bra with straps with your camisole.

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Put on a bra and put on the camisole. Tuck the camisole into your skirt or pants.

Now, with an air soluble marking pen, mark the outline of the camisole on the bra area that shows. Remove the bra and cut camisole fabric to cover the bra straps and any other area that shows when you wear the camisole. Sew the fabric to the bra and now you have eliminated the bra exposure and still have your bosom supported. And, you can still wear the bra with other garments, too.

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You can also add shoulder straps to the camisole if you prefer. Cut fabric for the straps either straight or bias. Sew the straps. Put on the camisole. Pin the straps in the appropriate place front and back. Remove the camisole. Sew the straps to the camisole.

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You can also use the trim or ribbon for straps. That's cool.

Another sewing tip: Add a waist sash. Sew a four inch wide fabric sash to tie around your waist for the latest coordinated look.

Sew camisoles for gifts. Sew camisole tops to go with baggy pajamas. Kids and teens love them.

Now that you know how to sew camisoles, try these ideas:

Lengthen the camisole to street or evening length; elasticize the waist and slit the skirt for an evening dress or a beach cover-up. The fabric determines how you use the garment.

Have fun sewing quick and easy camisoles.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3 Subject: Textile Related Books FAQ: Part 3 of 3. This article was archived around: 27 Mar 1998 13:03:04 -0800. Part 3 of 3 of the Textile Books FAQ:

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

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2006-10-15T22:08:00.000+10:00

Sewing Tips - Make A Cutting Mat That Doesn't Slip

By Marian Lewis

How To Repair Your Sewing Machine. Sewing Machine Repair as a Home Business or for your self.

1f8f

When you are sewing, rotary cutting mats are great for cutting with a rotary cutter. However, when you are cutting slippery fabrics, it is difficult to keep the fabric where you want it.

Here is a sewing tip on how you can make your own non-slip cutting mat.

Create A Cork Top Table

Common Sense Fitting & Sewing Techniques. Sewing And Fitting eBooks Leading To Your 1st Step To Sewing & Fitting Success.

Draw vertical, horizontal and bias lines on it with permanent marker if you like. Glue a tape measure along the ends for quick measuring.

Sewing Roman Shades. How to easily sew roman shades. Step-by-step roadmap to professional window shades.

Sewing 101. A Step by Step Guide to Sewing Basics.

Another idea is to use cork tiles to create a cork top table.

More Sewing Tips

Raise Your Table Legs

To help prevent back aches, raise your cutting table up higher by placing tall cans like juice cans under each leg. This helps tremendously.

If you want to permanently raise the legs of your table and the legs are tubular, you might try PVC pipe. Put caps on the ends of the pipe or use casters to keep the legs from marking the floor.

Steady Your Sewing and Overlock Machines

Use a square of cork sheeting under your overlock-serger or sewing machine to keep it from moving around when you sew. This is also good on the floor to keep your foot pedal from sliding around.

Make A Portable Cork Cutting Mat

Make A Cork Bulletin Board

Make a cork bulletin board to post your sewing notes, etc. Recycle an old picture frame. Glue cork to a piece of cardboard and frame it.

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Or frame the cork with some trim from your stash or glue measure tapes around it or old spools of thread.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Sewing Supplies from Sew-ciety Sewing supplies, quilting patterns, sewing machine repair and more. We even offer sewing classes where you can learn to sew.

For more information, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

To learn more, go to http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

Subscribe to the free Sewing Success Newsletter at =>http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/news.html

Trick or Treating? Loot Bags

2006-09-22T07:59:00.000+10:00

Trick or Treat Loot Bags

Even if you haven't finished their costumes for Hallowwen, don't forget the loot bags for the kids to collect their goodies! These are a simple project for a beginner and...

technorati tags:halloween, trick, treat, loot|bags, trick|treat

September is National Sewing Month

2006-09-14T22:34:00.000+10:00

Well, have been away for a while but am back now. I know it is nearly over but thought you should know about September being National Sewing Month and while I've been away I haven't sewn a stitch. So not much of a sewing month for me. Not to worry, I'll catch up.

I hope you've done your bit for it to make up for me doing not a thing. Still I had a lovely break.

September is National Sewing Month

The kids are heading back to school. The weather is getting cooler... what better time to take some time to get back to sewing or sharpen your sewing skills! Before...

My Bubby Elna Sewing Machine.....I wish....

2006-08-26T23:27:00.000+10:00

ELNA LOTUS SP SEWING MACHINE - NEW SWISS MADE

AU $160.00 (0 Bid)
End Date: Saturday Sep-02-2006 21:40:16 EST
Bid now | Add to watch l ist

I just saw this and if you are interested in having a sewing machine that will be like a faithful little puppy and give you unconditional "love" or I should say performance and you're not really into sewing in a big way, then this is the machine for you.

It will do all your basics beautifully. Elna is my favorite brand in sewing machines and this is the one I wanted to buy originally. We were living overseas and my husband went to work in Singpore for a few weeks and while I asked him to get me the Lotus, he came home with the top of the range. (Don't send a male to buy your sewing machine, you see what the machine can do as far as sewing, he sees the motor and the inner workings).

I do love my top of the range but the reason I wanted the Lotus or Bubby Elna as I called it, was it could go any where with you , it is so light and could be packed away in a cupboard and brought out without a lot of fuss.

Well, enough from me, I'll keep a watch and see what it goes for, has a few days to go.

technorati tags:sewing, sewing|machine, Elna, Elna|Lotus

Free Clutch Purse Pattern and Directions

2006-08-21T12:54:00.000+10:00

Free Clutch Purse Pattern and Directions

http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa121105.htm

Think about it, sewing is wonderful, there are so many areas we who sew can get into. Here is another one, how about sewing these clutch purses, sew simple and so cool.

These are lovely and so "IN" right now. Source out some different fabrics, try the soft furnishing stores or Interior Decorators superceded samples. You could even start up a little business for yourself for the boutiques in your area. Who knows, most things are possible if we put our minds to it.

The link above will give you all the directions for making these cute bags. So hop to it.... and have some fun.....remember Christmas is coming.....more gift ideas.

See the style with the chain handle, well why not make a beaded handle, not hard or a ribboned one that you sew some beads on, let your imagination run.... and have some fun...

technorati tags:sewing, sew, clutch|purse, sew|clutch|purse, beaded|handle

Fake Fur And How To Cut It !

2006-08-20T00:13:00.000+10:00

Cutting and sewing fake fur, with winter coming in the northern hemisphere and those cute jackets with the fake fur collars, I felt this could be useful to you, cut it right and you're away to sewing your very own jacket.

Check the link out below, it is good.

http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa092000a.htm

Another Pattern, Good Gift Idea !

2006-08-18T18:12:00.000+10:00

No skirt pattern today but .......how about glasses cases, great for the sunnies or normal eye glasses, make them COOL !!!!! Put them on your birthday/holiday present ideas

Below is the link to get the pattern

http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa071300a.htm

Another Skirt For You to Make

2006-08-17T17:45:00.000+10:00

Another skirt pattern for you, don't be put off by the title of the skirt, if you're not into pirates, this skirt has a great hemline for today's fashions.

Pirate Costume Skirt -- Free Pattern and directions!

http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa072706.htm

technorati tags:skirt, sewing, pattern, skirt|pattern

How To Make A Tiered Skirt

2006-08-16T08:15:00.000+10:00

For the last month or so, my time has been taken up mainly with offline work, but that is slowing down now so I'm .....back......

And to get you going again I have found this great page with directions for a Tiered Skirt. Now there aren't many places where you will find instructions like this so, make the most of it.

http://www.jcarolinecreative.com/Merchant2/peasantskirt_i nst.html

That's the skirt and the instructions are step by step, use your own imagination for the fabrics

technorati tags:sewing, sewing|pattern, tiered|skirt, instructions, skirt

It's All about Sewing....Sew Hot

2006-05-30T11:26:00.000+10:00

Hi

I love reading articles like the one below, it's about sewing. I found it in an Aussie paper but it is what I have been saying all my sewing life and that's a few years or more. When you sew your own garments you have the edge on those who don't and even the 'boys' are getting into it.

What one of the guys says about making clothes is what I say about building with timber. Same principles, you make the pattern, cut out the pieces and construct the finished product. On one hand you are working with timber, on the other hand you are working with fabric.

Same steps, just learning to use the tools for each, the basics are the same. And.... isn't it funny, no one scoffs at a female who makes things with timber like they do when a male makes things with fabric.

Okay that's my little rant, enjoy the article

It's all about sewing and sew hot

Cheers

Carmel
Sew More For U

Sew hot right now

Sewing's for grannies, right? Not any
more, writes Natalie Craig.

'THANKS. I made it myself." In sewing circles,
nothing quite beats the look on people's faces when
you tell them that your hot new outfit is an original
"you".

People who sew their own clothes may be annoyingly smug, but
if there's one thing they're not, it's
daggy. Once the domain of grannies and homemakers, sewing
is experiencing a revival - similar to the one that
brought knitting to pubs and city trams - and
everyone from builders to academics wants in.

John, 35, is a builder from St Kilda, and one of the most
unlikely sewers imaginable.

He says he and a friend got into sewing because of a game of
one-upmanship. "A friend of mine throws rave parties
- one of those things where everyone's trying
to outdo one another," John says.

"I was tired of always asking female friends to make things
for me.

"When we went to the sewing course, I didn't think
the teacher had ever had any men … I just learnt the
basics; the rest of it I figured out for myself. It's
the same skills you need to build a house - you just
have to imagine a 3D shape."

After learning to thread a machine, sew a straight line, and
finish seams and hems, John says he dove straight in and
"constructed" a pair of red PVC flares, which he reinforced,
true to his housebuilding sensibilities, with six rows of
stitches. "They're very sturdy pants," he says,
deadpan.

But despite John's sewing prowess, he's still
uncomfortable about his construction site mates finding out
about his hobby.

"I don't think they'd care if they thought
I'd just dabbled in it. But going to a course …"

Richard, 29, a Sydney architect and a sewer for four years,
has no such anxiety.

"I let what I create do the talking," he says. "I'm
an architect, so it's an extension of that creative
urge." Frustrated by the cost of men's clothes,
Richard says he's now able to look at something
that's out of his price range and think: "I can make
that." He's now making T-shirts with screen-printed
designs - a final product that costs him only a few
dollars.

Of course, men and women take up the needle for different
reasons. Fiona, 29, of Fitzroy, is size 6 and barely tips
152 centimetres. "The main reason I started sewing was to
make things that fit me," she says, showing off the severe
alterations she made to the vintage jacket she's
wearing.

"But there's more to it than that. People buy too
many clothes, then throw them out without wearing them …
We're not connected to the process any more -
of what we wear, where we live, what we eat."

Canberra's Lisa Howdin, founder of sewing website
fitzpatterns.com, is also concerned by our relationship with
production. "You can't get a $20 shirt without
paying people 50 cents an hour.

You just can't do it," she says. "You know if you
work long hours, you just get sick to death of your computer
screen … Sewing is something real that you can touch and
feel."

Howdin 's website features simple patterns for things
such as boat-neck tops ("because it's just not indie
rock without a stripey top"), T-shirt-style mini-dresses
("covers big butts when worn over jeans") and bolero jackets
("great for wearing over strappy tops").

The patterns are either free or cost a few dollars to
download. They come in PDF format, so you can print them off
at home and paste them together, or take the file to a
commercial printer.

Named one of Cosmopolitan Australia's top 12
websites, fiztpatterns.com is helping sewing shed its
housewife mantle. And major textile retailers are beginning
to reflect this trend.

"Sewing has now moved from a necessity to a leisure-time
activity," says Brian Swersky, joint managing director of
Lincraft.

"We've introduced sewing classes in our Southland and
Knox stores. They're being received very well, and
to date are fully booked."

Swersky says Lincraft is also introducing a range of
high-end fabrics to meet the demands of sewers looking to
recreate boutique clothes.

Lincraft went into receivership early last year, but Swersky
says the company's troubles were not a reflection on
the popularity of sewing.

"The DIY craft market is undergoing a huge growth," he says,
pointing to the trend in the United States, where sewing
and DIY crafts account for retail sales of more than $30
billion a year, according to the Craft and Hobby
Association.

Reflecting the US experience are websites such as
sewbetsyross.com. Founder Aimee Dolby (above), who's
based in Chicago, says women are turning to sewing as an
alternative to mainstream, "cookie-cutter" fashion.

"In a world where our fashion and retail habits are dictated
by the latest offerings of The Gap, it's refreshing
to know you can make a skirt yourself for half the cost of
a retail garment, and it's your own creation," says
Dolby.

Her website features downloadable patterns for
retro-inspired pieces such as pencil-line skirts,
high-waisted, wide-leg trousers, and pretty sundresses.

The patterns come with attractive, hand-drawn instruction
booklets - free from sewing jargon - as well
as a size chart and bookmark glossary. "I wanted to make
sewing more accessible," Dolby explains of her user-friendly
design.

"I think a lot of young women are sophisticated in the sense
that they have the means and intelligence to create
interesting, unique clothes, but they just don't know
where to begin."

Hollywood celebrities are starting to pick up on the trend,
with stars such as Elizabeth Hurley and Nicole Kidman
confessing to making their own clothes.

Gwen Stefani even broke her finger recently running up a
sample for her new fashion label, L.A.M.B. But you
don't need to go as far as Hollywood to find evidence
of the sewing revival.

The women at Dragana Edwards' sewing classes in
Caulfield include a doctor of genetics, a budding fashion
designer and a Latin dancer.

"I've anything from as young as 12 to as old as 77,"
says Dragana, who runs sewing and pattern-making courses
from her home.

"People are looking for a creative outlet … Sewing'
s less about saving money these days than about being an
individual."

Joy, 67, of Reservoir, has been attending Dragana's
classes for six years. She says she was forced to sew at
school, but hated it. "I sewed when I had young children,
but only to save money.

And then, about five years ago, I couldn't get things
to fit me properly and I didn't like the designs for
women my age - they're so daggy - so I
started to look around for sewing lessons. And I love it
now."

Carmel, a mother of one from Coburg, says she struggles to
find clothes that fit, and hates what's on offer at
mainstream shops. "Jeans are worse than going to the
doctors," she says.

"I sew for bigger women that are around my age … We might
be close to middle age, but we're still there,
we're still 'out there' and we still
want to look decent."

Dressed in a long, textured black tunic over stretch pants,
Carmel looks more like a fashion designer than a
stereotypical mum. Her nine-yearold daughter, Asha, is
equally trendy, thanks to her sewing.

"The tracksuit pants they've got at school have got
cuffs on them, and she hates them - everybody hates
them. So I make Asha's to be flared a bit! Now
everybody wants a pair."

Unlike when Joy and Carmel were at school, sewing or
textiles is no longer offered at most high schools, which is
part of the reason that Hollie and Katie, both 16, attend
Dragana's classes.

"I love it," says Hollie, of Malvern. "Our friends are
excited because we can make them stuff. And you learn heaps
and save money."

Katie, of Glen Iris, says she made a splash at the races in
a dress she'd made herself. "You know the kind that
scrunch around the top and then drop down?"

But what was the response when she told her teenage friends
- the highest arbiters of fashion - that she
made it herself?

"So cool."

DARN IT
MELBOURNE FABRIC STORES
¦ Remnant Warehouse, 10 Cato Street, Prahran. Phone: 9510
1121.
¦ Darn Cheap Fabrics, 1184 Glen Huntly Road, Glenhuntly.
Phone: 9563 6833.
¦ Artextil, 285 Lennox Street, Richmond. Phone: 9428
7199.
¦ Lincraft, Collins Street, city. Phone: 9650 1609.

Sewing Revival.....Yippee

2006-05-25T08:17:00.000+10:00

I love to read these articles, I find them an inspiration and as one who was brought up by a Mum who disliked intensly being like everyone else, we learned to be individuals with our style and by sewing our own clothes, we were just that.

So when I see an article like this one and read some of the comments then I feel great knowing that there is a revival in the sewing and dressmaking world. This means that "us who sew" otherwise known as UWSs will continue to have a range and variety and above all quality to choose from....

This is the start of the article and the link is below to read it all

The coat is exquisite and incredibly flattering. Made from green cashmere with a contrasting burgundy lining, it has an elegant funnel neck and skims Helen Doyle's slender figure to perfection.
Indeed, the garment fits the 31-year-old marketing executive so well, several people have commented it could have been made for her.
And that's when Helen feels rather smug, because it was. And she made it.
"When I started sewing classes I was a total beginner, but after four lessons I had made a skirt," she says.

Read the full article here

Cheers

Carmel
Sew More For U

Sewing Efforts Maybe Awkward but Deserve Rewarding

2006-05-16T11:54:00.000+10:00

"Sewing efforts awkward at best"
by
Jean Gouveia

Webster’s defines the word klutz as “a clumsy, awkward person.” I expected to see my name listed as an example following the definition, but, thank goodness, it was not there.

Have you ever wished you excelled at something, that in one area you performed exquisitely, that the word “brilliant” might precede your name in a discussion of your specialty in life? Too bad wishing does not make it so.

I was thinking of the word klutz and how it applies to me this morning while making breakfast for my husband and me. I decided, in the name of better cholesterol health, to scramble three eggs instead of four, with the larger portion going to my hubby. It was a simple and straightforward plan, but the rules of klutzdom would not let the simple plan work. One of the eggs had two yolks!

While cursing the thwarting of my healthful plan, I found myself smiling because as a young child from a poor family the gift of two yolks in one egg was always a happy surprise and made for a richer-tasting breakfast.

All of this klutzful thinking came about because I am taking an alteration course through Fayetteville Technical Community College. The other women in this class are skilled at altering dressy church attire and suit jackets."

Click here to read the whole article.

I love it when people give sewing a go. They are usually amazed at what they can achieve and even though things don't always go right at the start, with some perserverance the rewards will come.

Sewing always reminds me of professional sports persons, they all have their bad days and so do sewers, nobody's perfect.

So if you have had what you think is your share of disasters with your sewing, don't give up, perservere, the next project could be your masterpiece.

Enjoy the article
Take care

Carmel
PS the pattern drafting course is now online, check it out.
Sew More For U Basic Pattern Drafting Course
It's the KISS of pattern drafting courses

The Little Sewing MachineThat was and Still Is !!!

2006-05-15T10:58:00.000+10:00

Just as well we're not all alike, we would lose so much of our heritage. As the saying goes, "One man/woman's trash is another man/woman's treasure"

This article is typical of this statement.

I'm not a collector but I do have an interest in the "older world things", mostly because of the quality and workmanship and way back then, even if you didn't have much money, you would have these treasures as your everyday items because that's how things were made, it's just now years later that the value is placed on them.

And so we have this story about a little sewing machine. The mere fact that it is functional, tells us about the quality and workmanship back then. But someone wanted rid of it and couldn't see any value in it and luckily for the little sewing machine, someone else could. So it can go on now to fascinate.

So I for one am happy we're not all alike and that goes for our sewing too. The beauty of sewing for yourself and making your own clothes and things for your home is you can choose exactly what you want, you don't have to rely on what someone else thinks will suit.

So have a read about the little sewing machine and I hope you enjoy it.

All the best

Carmel
Sew More For U

Trash or treasure?

Miniature sewing machine dates back to late 1800s

Khristi Zimmeth / Special to The Detroit News
May 13, 2006

C hildren's toy or salesman's sample? That was the question on Earl Eiben's mind when he wrote Trash or Treasure to try and learn more about his potential treasure.

Eiben, of Novi, picked up the intriguing item at a garage/moving sale last spring.

"It was part of a large box filled with miscellaneous goodies that was marked 'Your Choice, 50 Cents Each,' " he says.

An avid garage and estate sale fan, he was happy to dig through the box before coming up with the little sewing machine. When he went to pay for it, however, he found out that he didn't have the money.

"I was really disappointed," he remembers. "The woman who was running the sale saw that and gave it to me anyway. They were moving and she just wanted to get rid of it."

He's been curious about it ever since.

"I have never been able to tell if it was a toy or a salesman's sample," he says. "It has interesting painting on it that looks a little Russian. I haven't been able to find any name on it, but the plate is numbered on top and says No. 480854 with numbers that are a little hard to read. I really just don't know what it is."

Luckily, Robert DuMouchelle, who appraised Eiben's piece, did.

"What you have here is a child's toy," he says. "We just had a series of these in our sale last September. They're very collectible."

DuMouchelle dated the piece to the late 1800s or early 1900s.

"Children would play with them, and they were made to look like the larger versions," he says. "This one, which is cast iron, is nicely painted and actually functional. Some are more elaborate, but this one is quite charming."

Because of that charm, he put a price tag on it of about $100-$400, saying what it would bring at auction would depend on who was there and what was hot at the time.

"We sold one of these a few years back for $650, believe it or not," he says. "It hasn't happened since."

No matter, Eiben says.

"I love antiques and I think I'll keep it. After all, it was a gift."

DuMouchelle had other good news for Eiben about a Staffordshire pitcher and bowl he also brought with him. He picked them up for $10 at an estate sale.

"This is ironstone, and not the earliest production, but it's a really nice color and it would easily bring $150-$250 at auction," he says. "If it were the chintz pattern, which everyone loves, it would be worth even more, about $300-$400."

Eiben went home happy.

"I paid $10 for both pieces and they're worth up to $800, not a bad day overall," he says.

Do you have an object that you'd like to know more about? Send a photo and a description that includes how you acquired the object, what you know of its history, any marks or hallmarks and what you paid for it to: The Detroit News, Trash or Treasure/Homestyle, 615 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226. Include your name and a daytime phone number. If chosen, you'll need to bring the item in for appraisal. Photos cannot be returned.

Sewing Tips...Re-Doing Sewing Tips.....

2006-05-07T08:52:00.000+10:00

We have started to re-do our sewing tips, well not changing them, just the way people can access them.

I prefer to read on a webpage than in an email, so we are in the process of setting up the tips on webpages and by doing this have been able to incorporate the sewing tip graphics too.

It's been a slow process so far but we are getting there.

The tips we offer for free, are excellent and a great help to anyone who sews. Sewing is making a comeback and there are many newbies and from our feedback, there are many who have been sewing for some time who have found more than one sewing tip they didn't know before.

If you would like to receive the tips, just fill in the form on the right, we value your privacy and will never abuse your details in any way.

The other big thing that is on the go, is the promotion for our subscribers for our Basic Pattern Drafting eCourse. We're all putting forward our ideas, so you can be sure it will be great. that's another reason to get on the list.

That's it for now, catch you soon

Carmel
For the Crew From Sew More For U

sewing tips

Hey..!! Want To Be A T-Shirt Designer

2006-05-05T10:50:00.000+10:00

What did we do before the T-Shirt came into vogue.  They are so much a part of our everyday wardrobe.  For the original shape to the designer styles, no wardrobe is complete without them.

Thought you might like to read this article by Terri Donahue about designing your own.  Great tips on color and graphics to get you on your way.

These days with computers, to give you a head start with the programs to make it so much easier to get your very own original design, modern printers and all the printing aids, designing your own T-Shirt could not be easier.

Never know, could lead to a new little business. Who know where your talents lie until you try something new?

Okay, here’s the article, hope you learn something from it and give designing your own T-Shirt a go.

Take care

Carmel
www.sewmoreforu.com/pattern-drafting.html

Designing Your T-Shirt: Three Elements For Success
By: Terri Donahue

A number of technologies exist today, from inkjet transfers to online designers, which make designing and printing your own t-shirts easy and affordable. But ease of production doesn’t guarantee a good design. The following are three design components to consider when creating a design for a t-shirt: Contrast, Size, and Balance.

Contrast is the difference in *brightness* between colors. You want to have contrast between your ink colors and your shirt. For example, bright yellow, a perfectly good color, is not good for text on a white shirt because white and yellow are similar in brightness. It’s very difficult to read yellow letters on a white background. Dark colored inks, likewise, do not show up well on dark colored shirts. Navy blue ink, for example, won’t show up on a black shirt (or a burgundy shirt, or forest green, etc…).

Another area where you need to consider contrast is the graphic itself. A graphic (or multicolored font) that is made up of a group of similar colors, such as dark blue, deep purple, and black, will be hard to distinguish; the lines and colors will visually blur together. Contrast between light and dark colors will make your graphics easy to recognize.

Size does matter when it comes to shirt design. Bigger is usually better for both text and graphic elements. Your design needs to be able to be read from around six to eight feet away. Keep your text relatively simple, or at least have a major few words that are large and easily seen. People don’t have the time or inclination to read a paragraph of text on a shirt. You have about 3 seconds to get your message across before the shirt has passed by. While smaller text can be used, remember to save it for information that is less important than your main idea since it will be less easily seen.

Balance refers to the overall distribution of text and images on your shirt. A layout is described as being “heavy” where there is a lot of imagery or thick, full, font styles. As the word implies, when there is an area that is heavy (or light), there needs to be a similar area on the other side. Balance can be focused either left/right or top/bottom. As a design element, balance is an area where there is the most leeway for “breaking the rules”. Many times an off-balance, asymmetric design can be very energetic. But for a classic, clean design remember to keep your elements balanced.

If you are conscious of Contrast, Size, and Balance when designing your t-shirt, you will be well on your way to a result that will be visually pleasing to both you and your audience.

About the Author: Mandar is a graphic artist and man-about-town with http://ExpertShirt.com. Design your own custom t-shirt at http://www.expertshirt.com
Source: www.isnare.com

Getting the Best Out Of Your Sewing

2006-04-29T12:33:00.001+10:00

Check out the new articles on turning your sewing into a business and getting your sewing room in order.

Actually they go hand in hand because if you wish to turn your hobby of sewing into a business you need to get your sewing room in order first.

It's amazing what you can find once you embark on this spring/autumn cleaning of your sewing room, your sewing nook or your sewing cabinet. Something you bought for a particular project that you didn't get around to sewing, could take on a whole new project.

Anyway you may get some ideas and inspiration from these sewing articles, check them out here.

Spring/Autumn Sewing Room Cleaning
So You Want To Sell your Wares (Your Sewing Business)

Cheers
Carmel

sewing

Sewing For Tiny Ones

2006-04-22T16:39:00.000+10:00

Sewing for tiny ones

This is a subject close to my heart. We have had 2 very tiny premies and 1 tiny premie born in our family, and you don't think of clothing these tiny bubs until one is born into your family. My niece. who is now 34 years old was 1lb 4oz and born at 26 weeks. that many years ago she remained in a humidy crib until she was 4 months old and even at that age was so very small.

She herself had a premie babe and he was only 960 grams and born at 27 weeks. The difference in the care and treatment between the two was something to see and be amazed by.

But because of the 'bringing on' of the premies today, there is a need for the tiny clothing for them, especially the bonnets or beenies and it is a huge thank you to the ladies like the ones in this article from Frederick MD USA.

I hope you enjoy the read and if there is a group in your area who would like to get involved with something like this, the premie nurseries at the hospitals could put you in touch with those who would like to take advantage of your help.

When a premie babe is born it is a traumatic time for the parents and they can do with all the support and help that is available to them and it is very rewarding to be on the giving end.

Enjoy the article and I'll catch you later.

Carmel
Sew More For U

Sewing

FREDERICK — No parent plans to have a premature baby. An early baby catches parents off-guard, and, in many cases, they haven't thought of clothing that fits the tiny infant.

That's when the Good Samaritans at Homewood at Crumland Farms come in.

Ladies of the weekly craft and knitting class at Homewood meet once a week to make hats, blankets, burial gowns and other items needed for the nurseries and children's departments at Frederick Memorial Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital and other hospitals around the country.

Some of the items are so small they fit in the palm of the hand. Other items must fit infants two pounds and larger.

Recently the Homewood ladies decided to add quilts to their list of offerings. They work in collaboration with Care Wear Volunteers, a national nonprofit organization based in Frederick.

Founded by Bonnie Hagerman, who leads the quilting project, Care Wear recruits volunteers to knit, crochet and sew apparel such as hats, booties, kimonos, diaper shirts, toys and burial garments for premature and low birth weight infants across the United States.

"In (a) special care nursery, sometimes the quilts add a little color in a sterile, intense atmosphere, and garments aren't readily available for tiny infants," Ms. Hagerman said.

For the ladies at Homewood, their work is a labor of love.

Edith Horst said she likes seeing the completed project.

The ladies make other items as well, including huggable dolls. FMH gives a toy to each child in the emergency room.

FMH says the dolls calm and distract the youngsters, making it easier to administer medication, Ms. Hagerman said. At Johns Hopkins, specially made dolls are used to show kids what part of their body will be treated, Ms. Hagerman said.

The ladies at Homewood began using their sewing skills to make lap robes for Homewood's Alzheimer's and health units. Then they added prayer shawls for the Homewood minister to give to sick people. They make wreaths, scarfs, Christmas decorations, doll clowns and other craft items that the Homewood resident association and auxiliary sell at fairs and bazaars.

"It's a pretty worthwhile thing to do, and you enjoy good companionship while you're working," Ms. Horst said.

Julie Norris, Homewood activities director, said, "We take advantage of all the talents we have -- knitting, sewing, crocheting."

Ms. Norris credited Mary Kay Huber-Leslie for organizing the sewing class, which represents only one of many activities for Homewood's 300 residents.

"We provide activities for all levels," Ms. Norris said. Activities are modified to suit the patient, she said.

Other activities include trips to the nation's capital, dinner theaters, Bible studies and socials.

Sewing

You can sew your basics..

2006-04-14T11:59:00.000+10:00

I’m a great believer in getting the basics right. That goes for your wardrobe as well as everything else too.

Today’s article is all about getting the basics right.
You can sew your basics.. Get your patterns right for your basic wardrobe and you are home free.

You can build on the basics and don’t forget these basics can last you several seasons, so use good quality fabrics. You can add colors and styles with various pieces in the latest trends.

I find these articles are helpful when planning a wardrobe and I hope you do too.
Don’t forget to check out the free patterns offered here
If you need a good sewing companion try this one here there are some great free bonuses with it too.

Cheers
Carmel

Basics That Won’t Break The Bank
There are plenty of basics you can pick up that there’s no need to pay the extra to obtain a “design name.” From the outside no ones going to know they aren’t designer and no ones going to see the label so their a safe bet!

Items such as white jeans, flirty skirts, cotton T’s, crocheted shrugs, or shorts can be purchased without the designer name. Also watch for T’s put on sale by some of the big online retailers for as much as 50% off. Bluefly.com quite regularly puts DKNY and Rebecca Beeson T’s on for a serious reduction in price.

Looking fresh like they just came off the rack is important. If you purchased budget items then you’ve save quite a few dollars so once they start looking not so fresh get rid of them.

Shoes are another arena where you can save some money. No need to buy designer. Most important is fit and comfort, and of course you need to be certain they’ll work with your wardrobe. This season the wedge, as well as flats for the summer season, are in style so have some fun. If you shop carefully you can add several pair for the price of one pair of designer shoes.

Lastly you can save a whole lot of money on your jewelry. Costume jewelry is affordable and the selection is great. If you stick to costume jewelry you can buy pieces for this seasons fashion and not feel bad because you spent too much and they are out of style next year. There are many good online store with very reasonable prices. Don’t forget to have a hunt through your old jewelry as well – you might be surprised at what you find that has made it back into style. Large clunky jewelry is certainly in. As is wood and bone jewelry. Color is making a big statement this year. This is a very fun season because just about anything goes provided you complete your look.

If you need to get some ideas for the spring season – this months women’s magazines have some great articles and examples. Vogue, Elle, and In Style are all full of excellent fashion pages.

So don’t fret, you can look like a million dollars on a shoe string budget with a little creativity and hunting! Make your fashion statement!

About the author:
Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Mystery of the Sewing Squares???

2006-04-10T08:27:00.000+10:00

Hi all,

Of all thing sewing,I just read this amazing article in the Tempe News and thought, you never know who reads what, or who know what, this world is a small place really. Someone who reads this blog just may know someone who was involved in making the squares.

It seems the sewing has been done very well and I hope they will put up a photo when the quilt is completed.

Anyway, anyone who knows anything about it the contact information is at the end of the article. Let's hope someone can help as it would be great for whoever purchases the quilt to have the history too.

I can't understand anyone just bundling up something as rare as that and giving it away.

Still to each his own....

Take care

Carmel
Sew More For U

Sewing

Tempe News
Tempe sewing group uncovers bedspread mystery
By Hayley Ringle, Tribune
April 7, 2006
It’s a mystery of children’s drawings that became a handsewn coverlet. And the 20 women and lone man of the Contempo Tempe Sewing Group would love to have it solved.
Related Links
Lifestyle
Tempe
“We’ve had a lot of fun just looking at it,” Catherine Hoiland said. “Gosh, all the details.”

The group — which sews dresses, pajamas and play clothes for children from working poor families — thought they’d received just another bag of donated material last December. But these 45 fabric squares, each signed by a child, were special.

There are pictures of Babylonian art from 1700 B.C., drawn by Nadia Robeson. A Sumerian husband and wife from 3000 B.C. were drawn by Debbie Bencomo. Jessica Clark wrote out the Magna Carta, while Roxanna Apaez drew a map of Lower Egypt.

The sewing group believes the students were given a geography or history lesson on ancient Egypt, and then each student was given a topic to draw, said Mary Rupert, 74.

“I think it’s amazing,” said Gwen Hoover, 82. “I think it was a big project someone was doing as a group. It took a lot of kids doing a lot of work. Each patch is so fascinating.”

But the group has no idea who those students are, what school they’re from, what teacher gave the assignment and why the drawings were given away.

The pieces don’t appear to be too old.

The mystery is deepened further because the bag of children’s drawings was donated by club member Virginia Cook, who died suddenly in December. She was a volunteer for a Scottsdale hospice, and had received the pieces from the hospice’s thrift shop.

The group decided to put the pieces together into a coverlet to preserve the fun, unique drawings.

They plan to raffle off the coverlet in December to raise money for other sewing projects. They’d like to have some background for the raffle winner, and maybe even have some of the children who made the drawings at the annual Christmas dinner.

But most of all, the women want to show these children that their drawings were put to good use, and to show them the finished product.

“They deserve to be recognized,” said Frances Winokur, 91.

Mystery drawings
Information: If you have any information on the mystery drawings, call (602) 438-9751.
Donations: To donate fabric, zippers, lace, flannel, buttons or knitting supplies to the Contempo Tempe Sewing Group, call (602) 438-9751.

Good deed
This is an example of a good deed. Do you have a good deed someone has done for you? Tell us. Include your name, city and phone number. Send to Hayley Ringle at hringle@aztrib.com or call (480) 898-6301.
Contact Hayley Ringle by email, or phone (480)-898-6301

Sewing

2006-04-08T09:12:00.000+10:00

Hello to you,

Here at Sew More For U we are having some interesting discussions regarding the Basic Pattern Drafting Course and how we are going to package it to sell.

We have the DIY sewing eguide and there are some who think we should sell this with the Basic Pattern Drafting Course, like an all in one but they're not sure which one should lead, like the guide with the course or the course with the guide.

Basically when you get down to it, we could have three options, course and guide combined, course on its own and sewing eguide on its own, course with eguide and eguide with course.

We have about a week and a half to decide, then we will have about another week and a half to get the websites ready.

We have already re-organized our Sew More For U website, new header, new colors, it's still a work in progress.

As this blog is about sewing and helping you with your sewing then all of the above when it's released will do just that but in the meantime here is a tip for you on gathering.

For heavier fabrics, when you want to gather or ruffle, use extra strong thread in your bobbin. The thread you use to pull up the gathers is the bobbin thread, so using a stronger thread will help prevent the thread from breaking half way through.

Well that's it for now, come back soon and find out what the outcome of the release of the Basic Pattern Drafting Course is.

Till then, see you

All the best

Carmel

Sewing Decisions....Gets Tuff.....

2006-04-06T22:52:00.000+10:00

Do you ever go through a slump with your sewing? I do and am in one right now. I should be getting my winter wardrobe organised, yes, the southern hemisphere is going into winter.

My biggest problem is, I'm not sure what my lifestyle is going to be this winter. I guess when I get that figured out, there shouldn't be a problem.

You see, during the winter, I normally do tax consulting, ugh...!!! I hear you say but, I'm one of the nice guys or should I say gals. We work on your side, we are the ones who try our darndest to get you back the maximun refund.

Anyway, once I decide if I will go back to that this tax season, I should be able to work out my winter wardrobe and then get into the sewing.

If I don't go back, I will be working from home with my computer and sewing machine and the wardrobe for working at home compared to a corporate wardrobe is like chalk and cheese. The work at home is much more comfortable as you can imagine.

I wrote a PDF report today to help my basic pattern drafting people with interfacings. I try each week to have a special download for them, something that relates to the making of the patterns they will be drafting.

Whenever I do this, I always find out new and wonderful things. Nothing like researching to bring you up to speed. We have so much choice today, very spoilt but it can get confusing at times.

My first basic pattern drafting group have only two weeks left to finish the course, it has gone by so quickly.

I'm working on a package for the sewing eguide and the basic pattern drafting course. I have changed my mind several times on how we will release the drafting course. Everyone is suggesting this week and we will go through them all next week and see what will work the best.

Well I'm off, so will catch you later.

Till then, take care

Carmel

For The Embroidery Lovers

2006-04-01T22:06:00.000+10:00

Fashionable Embroider Designs: How to Stitch Them Ourselves?
By Robbie Darmona

Embroidery has become an important part in today’s fashion. Wide variety of embroidery designs exists which can be seen on nearly every wearable cloth in a man’s wardrobe: T-shirts, trousers, garments. It also takes on a large number of household materials: bed-cloths, counterpanes, draperies etc. Various kinds of embroidery designs can be found on the Internet. There exists a basic systematisation of this diversity:embroider designs can be qualified into four types.

The first one is the most exploited by embroidery lovers: the clothing embroidery design. It includes embroidery designs on fashion clothes, on man’s wear, on children’s clothes, on women’s dresses or suits. This type of design can be easily purchased either on the Internet , or from the ordinary embroidery shops. What makes them more attractive is that they can be produced by the person using computerized machines or software- first you pick up the digitized design you’d like to stitch, download it and the machine stitches it in no time.

The second type is the logo embroidery designs, which can be sewn onto T-shirts, sweatshirts and other garments. They can also be ordered on the Internet. The special thing is that most of them are done by professional embroiderers. Great care is taken about their production: their size, shape, texts and outlines are artfully accomplished.

The third kind of embroidery designs is the household designs. It is developed for decoration of household materials, such as draperies, carpets, mats, bedspreads, and so on. They also are produced by professionals, most of all because of their great size.

And last come the embroidery designs on any other materials and general products: such as embroidery on baseball caps, on shoes, gloves, hats, on different personal belongings- almost everything they can be sewn onto. This type can also be done by stitching software or ordered on the Internet.

Whatever embroidery design you pick up, you have to be aware how to make it. Part of the pleasure of having a pretty embroidery on your clothes is to have done it on your own. That is why, many people start using sewing machines, which help them develop their embroidery skills. But there are few things to be considered when using a machine. First of all, choose carefully the colours of the threads which you use, and make sure you have put threads enough to finish the whole embroidery design. After doing this, you’d better start stitching your embroidery design NOT on the original cloth, but on a plain fabric to set the size, shape and outlines of your design. And remember to hoop firmly the cloth on which you have started, otherwise you may interrupt the stitching process. Even if clutching strictly on these rules, there are several things which may as well go wrong.

The first thing is what to do with the embroidery design when it is ready. People often fuss up when it comes to sewing the design onto the original cloth. Remember: you need to be creative! Any place can be appropriate for a design to put on, so don’t stick just with the middle of the cloth. For example, try sewing the design on the back of the blouse, or on the left button corner. Asymmetry can be highly provocative and fashionable. Many novices are confused when trying to make a logo. Bear in mind that logos demand smaller fonts of texts (Arial and Verdana would be most suitable as fonts ), and the thinnest possible outline. Otherwise, you risk ruining the effect of the discreet showing up of your logo. Black bobbin thread or the same color thread should be used as the top when making texts on dark fabric. Smaller objects don’t need to be outlined as it would make no difference in the final results. One of the priorities of the smaller designs is that they are easy to make: if you are a new-beginner, you‘d better start with making small designs, the width of 3-4.5 inches. Not having to worry about greater objects will put you at ease with the machine itself and would help you get accustomed to the work. Don’t panic when something gets wrong: finish the stitches and try to edit it afterwards. Another big point to be made here is the support of the sewing machine: you have to change the needle frequently, also when finishing a certain design.

Bearing these tips in mind, you may start your own unique design project The final advice I can give you is enjoy your work and create something really beautiful!

For more information you can visit embroidery designs Article by Robbie Darmona

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robbie_Darmona

We Women Knew This All Along

2006-03-31T12:04:00.000+10:00

Hi again,

I get Google Alerts sent to my inbox so I can keep up with the happenings in the sewing world and this one today is just great.

It's something we ladies have known for such a long time, that sewing is a way of de-stressing and it seems that in Japan some men have found out this too.

I'll let you read the article. It sounds like when most men turn their hand to something that is thought of to be the female domain, they do it very well, maybe not perfectly but certainly with creativity.

Seems like sewing for these men has brought out the creative side of them that maybe they didn't know they had.

Here's the link to the article, just click here
I think it's just great.

Cheers

Carmel

Welcome To Our New Sew More For U Blog

2006-03-31T08:31:00.000+10:00

Hi and welcome to our very new blog for Sew More For U.

We will be bringing you great tips, hints and techniques for your sewing projects as well as some very good freebees that we find from time to time.

Please say hello by hitting the comment button, we'd love to meet you.

The Crew at Sew More For U

SewMoreForU

Vinatge labels become trendy clothing

Get Creative, Make Your Own Bag

Sewing With Knits

Concertina Sewing Box!

How to Make a Tote Bag (with pictures) - wikiHow

Creative Christmas Stockings, Special Fund Raising

Brother's Project Runway Limited Edition In Time For Christmas.

Sew For The Home, Tips and Hints

Learn How To Mark Your Pattern Pieces

Sewing 101 – Just the Basics

Instructables Weekly Project: Make an iPod Tote Bag--Spring Fling Bling-Bling

Sewing Tips - Make A Cutting Mat That Doesn't Slip

Sewing enjoying revival among teens

Sewing Machines are Useful Everyday

Sewing "All-In-One" Short/Long Formal Dresses

Sewing A Neat No Bulk Flared Hem

Sewing With Fusible Thread

Sewing Tip - Pre-shape Zippers Before Sewing In Curved Seams

Sewing Tip: How To Sew A Flat Zigzag On An Edge

Sewing Machines Save Money in the Home

Sewing Tips - How To Sew An Easy Centered Zipper

Sewing Machines To All Types Of Fixes

Sewing Tips - How To Sew And Recycle Old Pot Holders

Sewing Tips - How To Sew More Professional Looking Top-Stitching

Sewing Technique - How To Sew A Spa Wrap Or Beach Cover-Up

Lessons I've Learned from Sewing Teddy Bears

2 Sewing Techniques On How To Sew A Reversible Vest

Sewing Tips - Sew Buttons and Bows for Kids

Why Sew? This Is My "I Can" For Sewing - What's Yours?

Discover The Power Of Sewing Machines

Sewing Thread

Are Your Kids Saying, "I'm Bored?" Teach Them Some Sewing Skills This Summer

Sewing Tips: Sewing and Recycling Sheets Into Beautiful Home Dec Items

Sewing Buttons

Where You Can Save Money With Your Sewing

Sewing Is A Great Kids Craft

Finding Deals On Fabric For Your Sewing Projects

Tips For Buying A Sewing Machine Online

Sewing A Quick And Easy Camisole

Sewing Tips - Make A Cutting Mat That Doesn't Slip

Trick or Treating? Loot Bags

September is National Sewing Month

My Bubby Elna Sewing Machine.....I wish....

Free Clutch Purse Pattern and Directions

Fake Fur And How To Cut It !

Another Pattern, Good Gift Idea !

Another Skirt For You to Make

How To Make A Tiered Skirt

It's All about Sewing....Sew Hot

Sewing Revival.....Yippee

Sewing Efforts Maybe Awkward but Deserve Rewarding

The Little Sewing MachineThat was and Still Is !!!

Sewing Tips...Re-Doing Sewing Tips.....

Hey..!! Want To Be A T-Shirt Designer

Getting the Best Out Of Your Sewing

Online Now.....Basic Pattern Drafting at an Affordable Price

Sewing For Tiny Ones

You can sew your basics..

Mystery of the Sewing Squares???

Sewing Decisions....Gets Tuff.....

For The Embroidery Lovers

We Women Knew This All Along

Welcome To Our New Sew More For U Blog