Aug
17
Sewing Tips – How To Sew An Easy Centered Zipper
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Marian Lewis asked:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Extra tip: Brown paper super market bags make good press cloths. Avoid the printed area.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Try it! It just makes sense!
Bradford
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Extra tip: Brown paper super market bags make good press cloths. Avoid the printed area.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Try it! It just makes sense!
Bradford
Aug
5
Simplicity Sewing Patterns Article
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Patricia Pizarro asked:
Sewing is becoming more and more popular, and with TV shows like Project Runway, people are seeing how much fun (not to mention profitable) it can be to create your own clothing. Simplicity sewing patterns allow you the opportunity to emulate fashion designer clothing and to add your own twist to the garments.
The company currently offers well over 1000 patterns (actually that figure is closer to 2000) and you will be amazed at the variety they offer. You will find basic, easy patterns for those just starting out and patterns for those who have been sewing for a long time.
Simplicity sewing patterns are not all that the company offers. You will find any accessory you need to knit, quilt and crochet. They sell craft tools and fashion kits for children. They offer sewing machines and even lights that will brighten the area you are working in to ensure you can see exactly what you are sewing.
Simplicity offers trimming for the garments you create, for example, you can purchase beads, bands, eyelet, lace, piping and even jewelry trim. They feature all kinds of ribbon: fancy, printed, satin and wired edge, to name a few. There are hundreds of appliques from which to choose. Some examples are animal and insects, flowers, hearts, letters, numbers, sports and trendy. For home decor items that you are creating with your Simplicity sewing patterns, they offer cords, fringe, tassels and tie backs.
They offer every tool you may need in your endeavor to create the perfect wardrobe or home decor. There are many Simplicity sewing patterns that were inspired by Project Runway and you can purchase not only the patterns but all the accessories needed to complete your project, like rick rack, piping and bands.
A Simplicity sewing pattern will enable you to make special occasion dresses, coats, tops, jackets, skirts and pants. You can also create sportswear, sleepwear, clothing for babies and children and even costumes. You can make incredible stuffed animals made of fleece for all the little ones in your life.
Learning to sew and creating your own projects is a joy that will give you such a feeling of accomplishment. And Simplicity sewing patterns will help you to attain that feeling. You can find these patterns, and all accessories, at many online sites and also at online auctions like Amazon and eBay.
Jamal
Sewing is becoming more and more popular, and with TV shows like Project Runway, people are seeing how much fun (not to mention profitable) it can be to create your own clothing. Simplicity sewing patterns allow you the opportunity to emulate fashion designer clothing and to add your own twist to the garments.
The company currently offers well over 1000 patterns (actually that figure is closer to 2000) and you will be amazed at the variety they offer. You will find basic, easy patterns for those just starting out and patterns for those who have been sewing for a long time.
Simplicity sewing patterns are not all that the company offers. You will find any accessory you need to knit, quilt and crochet. They sell craft tools and fashion kits for children. They offer sewing machines and even lights that will brighten the area you are working in to ensure you can see exactly what you are sewing.
Simplicity offers trimming for the garments you create, for example, you can purchase beads, bands, eyelet, lace, piping and even jewelry trim. They feature all kinds of ribbon: fancy, printed, satin and wired edge, to name a few. There are hundreds of appliques from which to choose. Some examples are animal and insects, flowers, hearts, letters, numbers, sports and trendy. For home decor items that you are creating with your Simplicity sewing patterns, they offer cords, fringe, tassels and tie backs.
They offer every tool you may need in your endeavor to create the perfect wardrobe or home decor. There are many Simplicity sewing patterns that were inspired by Project Runway and you can purchase not only the patterns but all the accessories needed to complete your project, like rick rack, piping and bands.
A Simplicity sewing pattern will enable you to make special occasion dresses, coats, tops, jackets, skirts and pants. You can also create sportswear, sleepwear, clothing for babies and children and even costumes. You can make incredible stuffed animals made of fleece for all the little ones in your life.
Learning to sew and creating your own projects is a joy that will give you such a feeling of accomplishment. And Simplicity sewing patterns will help you to attain that feeling. You can find these patterns, and all accessories, at many online sites and also at online auctions like Amazon and eBay.
Jamal
Aug
4
Advice For Sewing Machine Novices
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Lily Campbell asked:
Sewing is enjoying a surge in popularity. Making your own clothes, accessories or soft furnishings can save money or simply help you create unique, beautiful pieces that look exactly how you want. But if you are a complete novice, the range of sewing machines available can be a bit intimidating if you don’t know exactly what you are looking for.
If you are planning on making your own clothes or home furnishings you are probably only going to need a fairly basic model rather than an expensive sewing machine with a dozen functions you may never learn to use. A basic machine should be able to do straight and zig zag stitches and a button hole function. If you are quite artistic or creative (and therefore interested in doing elaborate or embellished work) and have a slightly bigger budget then computerized models of sewing machine do a much greater variety of stitches. These types of machine are also a better investment if you aspire to selling your handiwork one day.
By far the most common problem novices have with their new sewing machine is misthreading the needle. Read the instruction manual carefully and keep it to hand until you are truly proficient in using it. Take the time to experiment with varying types and weights of fabric and different stitches. Lighter material such as silk will require short stitches (1mm to 1.5mm) while heavy fabric may need a longer, tacking stitch (3mm to 5mm). Experimentation can save you a lot of time and costly mistakes later on when you are actually trying to create a finished product. Dust can make your sewing machine run less efficiently so always recover the machine after use.
To make the most of your new sewing machine and your crafting skills, contact your local college or adult education centre to ask if they run suitable evening courses.
Chantel
Sewing is enjoying a surge in popularity. Making your own clothes, accessories or soft furnishings can save money or simply help you create unique, beautiful pieces that look exactly how you want. But if you are a complete novice, the range of sewing machines available can be a bit intimidating if you don’t know exactly what you are looking for.
If you are planning on making your own clothes or home furnishings you are probably only going to need a fairly basic model rather than an expensive sewing machine with a dozen functions you may never learn to use. A basic machine should be able to do straight and zig zag stitches and a button hole function. If you are quite artistic or creative (and therefore interested in doing elaborate or embellished work) and have a slightly bigger budget then computerized models of sewing machine do a much greater variety of stitches. These types of machine are also a better investment if you aspire to selling your handiwork one day.
By far the most common problem novices have with their new sewing machine is misthreading the needle. Read the instruction manual carefully and keep it to hand until you are truly proficient in using it. Take the time to experiment with varying types and weights of fabric and different stitches. Lighter material such as silk will require short stitches (1mm to 1.5mm) while heavy fabric may need a longer, tacking stitch (3mm to 5mm). Experimentation can save you a lot of time and costly mistakes later on when you are actually trying to create a finished product. Dust can make your sewing machine run less efficiently so always recover the machine after use.
To make the most of your new sewing machine and your crafting skills, contact your local college or adult education centre to ask if they run suitable evening courses.
Chantel
Jul
27
Used Sewing Machines
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Alison Cole asked:
Sewing machines are expensive. It’s no wonder so many people search for used sewing machines. Demand for used sewing machines is popular these days. There are a variety of used sewing machines of various brands and capacities available. Buyers can choose from a simple basic machine to a fully featured sewing machine with embroidery unit.
Buying a used sewing machine is a good alternative. They are an inexpensive option for low budget buyers. Buying a used sewing machine could save money. When buying a used sewing machine look out for standard features like the button sewing attachment, a tension dial, an auto bobbin winder, a built in light, reverse sewing, variable speed foot control and a soft cover for storing the sewing machine.
Most of the used sewing machines are reconditioned and are sold after cleaning and oiling and restoring missing parts. It should not take much time to repair or recondition. It has to be determined if reconditioning will work out to be cheap or not.
Buying factory reconditioned machines is another great way to get used sewing machines. Factory reconditioned machines are machines returned to the Factory by the original customer due to various reasons. These factory reconditioned sewing machines are rebuilt by Factory in-house technicians. The machines carry complete warranty. So before buying a factory reconditioned sewing machine, always read the instruction manual and any additional inserts to make sure that the machine comes with all its original accessories. Sometimes factory reconditioned products don’t include accessories. It is wise to check the specifications personally before placing the order.
Used sewing machines can be found at auctions, secondhand and online stores. There are numerous online sites selling used sewing machines. Of them, Ebay is the largest dealer. Sites like Overstock.com and Sell.com operate online market for such machines. Epinions.com has the best shopping information on used sewing machines.
Sammie
Sewing machines are expensive. It’s no wonder so many people search for used sewing machines. Demand for used sewing machines is popular these days. There are a variety of used sewing machines of various brands and capacities available. Buyers can choose from a simple basic machine to a fully featured sewing machine with embroidery unit.
Buying a used sewing machine is a good alternative. They are an inexpensive option for low budget buyers. Buying a used sewing machine could save money. When buying a used sewing machine look out for standard features like the button sewing attachment, a tension dial, an auto bobbin winder, a built in light, reverse sewing, variable speed foot control and a soft cover for storing the sewing machine.
Most of the used sewing machines are reconditioned and are sold after cleaning and oiling and restoring missing parts. It should not take much time to repair or recondition. It has to be determined if reconditioning will work out to be cheap or not.
Buying factory reconditioned machines is another great way to get used sewing machines. Factory reconditioned machines are machines returned to the Factory by the original customer due to various reasons. These factory reconditioned sewing machines are rebuilt by Factory in-house technicians. The machines carry complete warranty. So before buying a factory reconditioned sewing machine, always read the instruction manual and any additional inserts to make sure that the machine comes with all its original accessories. Sometimes factory reconditioned products don’t include accessories. It is wise to check the specifications personally before placing the order.
Used sewing machines can be found at auctions, secondhand and online stores. There are numerous online sites selling used sewing machines. Of them, Ebay is the largest dealer. Sites like Overstock.com and Sell.com operate online market for such machines. Epinions.com has the best shopping information on used sewing machines.
Sammie
Jul
20
Money Saving Tips For Sewing
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Joanne Jones asked:
Many people think that the fabric needed for sewing is really expensive.
Many people think that the fabric needed for sewing is really expensive.
Jul
18
Ways To Create A Sewing Room From Your Sewing Table
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Korbin Newlyn asked:
One of the things that numerous people complain about is not having enough space, and also not having enough storage area. This is particularly true when a person is living in a small apartment or home, and even more so if you have a family.
Hence, if you are a person who loves to sew, it can feel almost like a luxury to have enough room to cram a sewing table into the corner of your lounge room, let alone actually having enough space to allocate the area of a whole room to your sewing equipment.
For many of us, we make do with storing our projects, equipment and sewing supplies scattered throughout the house, and end up creating a jumbled mess of our sewing projects. Nevertheless, it is possible to make a very big area out of a very small one if we work in a smarter way instead of harder.
Creating an Ingenious Sewing Table
If you look around hard enough, you will find a number of sewing tables with good potential on the open market that can not just save you allot of space, but can make wind up creating additional space by utilizing some smart storage ideas that you can integrate for your own purposes.
Some of these ideas include tables that give you the ability to store various supplies below, as well as above the table, maintaining all of you items in one convenient neat package (very much like a computer desk).
Even more useful, particularly for those individuals who do not have the space for a large sewing table, are tables that are compact that have the ability to expand when you have to use them, and are very easily folded back to roughly half the size when you are not using them. Depending on the space you have available, either one of these options can fit into the smallest of apartment spaces without getting in your way.
Planning Your Own Sewing Table
If you have the money to afford it, it can pay off to design and get your own sewing table made from scratch so that you can make the most optimized use for whichever room you have available. There are a number of different designs that you can work with so that you can maximize the space you have available, which include the design of a U shape, L shape, or and I shaped sewing table.
An L shaped will work best when you are working in a corner, as this will take the best advantage of the space on more than one wall. An I shaped table will function best when working in a smaller cramped and narrow area, and a U shaped will end up working best if you have a full corner or open space that you are can work with.
When determining this, be certain to measure accurately the area in question, which also includes where you will be sitting, speak to a number of different professional manufacturers in regards to what materials will work best, and also shop around for the best prices as well as various deals that may be out there.
But until you do have the opportunity to get the sewing table you’ve always dreamed of, try creating added space in your house by integrating containers that are stackable or boxes that you can store various supplies, to maximize your space that you already have using shelving, and make certain that all of your equipment is out of reach of small children to ensure their safety. Whichever option you end up choosing, treat your sewing area with the care and respect that it deserves by keeping it tidy and clean, as this will make your work more enjoyable.
Migdalia
One of the things that numerous people complain about is not having enough space, and also not having enough storage area. This is particularly true when a person is living in a small apartment or home, and even more so if you have a family.
Hence, if you are a person who loves to sew, it can feel almost like a luxury to have enough room to cram a sewing table into the corner of your lounge room, let alone actually having enough space to allocate the area of a whole room to your sewing equipment.
For many of us, we make do with storing our projects, equipment and sewing supplies scattered throughout the house, and end up creating a jumbled mess of our sewing projects. Nevertheless, it is possible to make a very big area out of a very small one if we work in a smarter way instead of harder.
Creating an Ingenious Sewing Table
If you look around hard enough, you will find a number of sewing tables with good potential on the open market that can not just save you allot of space, but can make wind up creating additional space by utilizing some smart storage ideas that you can integrate for your own purposes.
Some of these ideas include tables that give you the ability to store various supplies below, as well as above the table, maintaining all of you items in one convenient neat package (very much like a computer desk).
Even more useful, particularly for those individuals who do not have the space for a large sewing table, are tables that are compact that have the ability to expand when you have to use them, and are very easily folded back to roughly half the size when you are not using them. Depending on the space you have available, either one of these options can fit into the smallest of apartment spaces without getting in your way.
Planning Your Own Sewing Table
If you have the money to afford it, it can pay off to design and get your own sewing table made from scratch so that you can make the most optimized use for whichever room you have available. There are a number of different designs that you can work with so that you can maximize the space you have available, which include the design of a U shape, L shape, or and I shaped sewing table.
An L shaped will work best when you are working in a corner, as this will take the best advantage of the space on more than one wall. An I shaped table will function best when working in a smaller cramped and narrow area, and a U shaped will end up working best if you have a full corner or open space that you are can work with.
When determining this, be certain to measure accurately the area in question, which also includes where you will be sitting, speak to a number of different professional manufacturers in regards to what materials will work best, and also shop around for the best prices as well as various deals that may be out there.
But until you do have the opportunity to get the sewing table you’ve always dreamed of, try creating added space in your house by integrating containers that are stackable or boxes that you can store various supplies, to maximize your space that you already have using shelving, and make certain that all of your equipment is out of reach of small children to ensure their safety. Whichever option you end up choosing, treat your sewing area with the care and respect that it deserves by keeping it tidy and clean, as this will make your work more enjoyable.
Migdalia
Jul
18
Sewing Essentials and Tips for Beginners
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Ivan A Cuxeva asked:
As it sometimes happen, we see a piece of clothing which grabs our attention due to its material, texture or patters but for some reason it’s the wrong size so we can’t buy it, other times we might be a little short on the “money department” which makes it impossible to buy designer clothing. All of these problems could easily be solved if only you knew how to sew. By learning this useful skill anyone can customize his/her wardrobe as well as those special items around the house; and just like many people who know how to sew can tell us, sewing your own clothing and other items can be significantly less expensive compared to buying them in stores.
Taking all of these factors in consideration we arrive to the conclusion that learning how to sew is important, especially if “fashion” is your thing, the steps and tips shown below can help you get started:
- The very first step for beginners involves getting acquainted with all of the sewing tools which will be used to modify and create pieces of clothing, a good way of doing just that is by either buying a used sewing machine or by borrowing one from a friend, if you happen to have the manual handy it is highly recommended to read it entirely, make sure to specially read the parts about safety steps since the last thing you want to do is hurt yourself while using one of these machines. Starting with an used machine will help you develop your skills and knowledge making it a lot easier on yourself when you decide to buy a bigger-more expensive machine. After following these steps it is also recommended to sign up for a sewing class because this is a skill you will need to develop gradually and there is no one better than a sewing teacher to help you master this art, these classes are quite common and can be found in community schools which start at different levels.
- Practice makes perfect, finding easy to follow sewing patterns to practice with will help you accomplish your goals. Start by sewing on simple pieces of clothing such as a shirts or even pillow covers, avoid having to sew complex patterns or sewing on expensive pieces of clothing you have just purchased; if for some reason you fail on the fist project the piece would be ruined, so do yourself a favor and keep it as simple as possible while learning.
- Give yourself time and be patient, the practice of sewing and learning how to sew requires a calmed and relaxed person so make sure you do not take too many drinks with sugar and caffeine, this will only make things harder for you. If you need to cut part of the clothing to make it the right size make sure you measure at least twice and be as precise as possible. The first few pieces might not fit your tastes or might have something wrong (too short, too long, etc.) do not be discouraged and keep practicing, at the end you’ll see it was all worth the wait.
Right after you finish your fist project make sure to start on the next one. This will ensure all the things you have learned stay fresh in your memory and will help you to acquire new skills. Following these simple steps for beginners will ensure you learn how to sew the right way, giving you the great skill to later on customize/create your own clothing.
Liana
As it sometimes happen, we see a piece of clothing which grabs our attention due to its material, texture or patters but for some reason it’s the wrong size so we can’t buy it, other times we might be a little short on the “money department” which makes it impossible to buy designer clothing. All of these problems could easily be solved if only you knew how to sew. By learning this useful skill anyone can customize his/her wardrobe as well as those special items around the house; and just like many people who know how to sew can tell us, sewing your own clothing and other items can be significantly less expensive compared to buying them in stores.
Taking all of these factors in consideration we arrive to the conclusion that learning how to sew is important, especially if “fashion” is your thing, the steps and tips shown below can help you get started:
- The very first step for beginners involves getting acquainted with all of the sewing tools which will be used to modify and create pieces of clothing, a good way of doing just that is by either buying a used sewing machine or by borrowing one from a friend, if you happen to have the manual handy it is highly recommended to read it entirely, make sure to specially read the parts about safety steps since the last thing you want to do is hurt yourself while using one of these machines. Starting with an used machine will help you develop your skills and knowledge making it a lot easier on yourself when you decide to buy a bigger-more expensive machine. After following these steps it is also recommended to sign up for a sewing class because this is a skill you will need to develop gradually and there is no one better than a sewing teacher to help you master this art, these classes are quite common and can be found in community schools which start at different levels.
- Practice makes perfect, finding easy to follow sewing patterns to practice with will help you accomplish your goals. Start by sewing on simple pieces of clothing such as a shirts or even pillow covers, avoid having to sew complex patterns or sewing on expensive pieces of clothing you have just purchased; if for some reason you fail on the fist project the piece would be ruined, so do yourself a favor and keep it as simple as possible while learning.
- Give yourself time and be patient, the practice of sewing and learning how to sew requires a calmed and relaxed person so make sure you do not take too many drinks with sugar and caffeine, this will only make things harder for you. If you need to cut part of the clothing to make it the right size make sure you measure at least twice and be as precise as possible. The first few pieces might not fit your tastes or might have something wrong (too short, too long, etc.) do not be discouraged and keep practicing, at the end you’ll see it was all worth the wait.
Right after you finish your fist project make sure to start on the next one. This will ensure all the things you have learned stay fresh in your memory and will help you to acquire new skills. Following these simple steps for beginners will ensure you learn how to sew the right way, giving you the great skill to later on customize/create your own clothing.
Liana
Jul
15
Three Basic Stitches For Hand Sewing
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Joanne Jones asked:
Sewing machines help to make sewing faster, but sometimes you need to sew an item by hand, for example, when you are repairing an item. It does take practice to make stitches that are the same length and that go in a straight line, so don’t be discouraged if at first you don’t like the way your stitches look. Keep practicing and you will get the hang of it. To help you get started, here are three basic stitches that you will need to know when sewing by hand.
Backstitch
The backstitch has more strength and will hold better than the running stitch. The reason for this is that your stitches will overlap each other on one side of the fabric. Due to the overlapping stitches, the backstitch will appear different on both sides of the fabric. On one side, the backstitch has many small, even stitches spaced so close together that they look like one continuous line. On the other side, you will notice that the stitches overlap at the ends because the stitches on this side are twice the length as the ones on the other side.
Start with a single piece of thread and knot one end. Start working from the bottom, or wrong side of the fabric and insert the needle. Pull it through until the knot touches the fabric (the knot will be on the bottom). Go over a 1/4 inch and pull the needle through from the top to the bottom. You are then going to go back and insert your needle in the fabric halfway from where you are to the knot where you started – basically you will go back 1/8 of an inch. Pull the needle through. From here you are repeating these stitches: go over a 1/4 inch and pull the needle through the fabric. Go back 1/8 of an inch and pull the needle through. Repeat until you get to the end.
Basting Stitch
The basting stitch is used as a temporary stitch to hold multiple layers together or to gather fabric together instead of using pins or needles to hold the fabric in place. It is much like the running stitch, except that the stitches are much longer.
Start the basting stitch just like you would start the running stitch, except that you won’t form any knots at the end of the thread. First, insert the needle on the wrong side of your fabric and pull it through. Leave a few inches of thread on the wrong side of the fabric and hold in place with your fingers, so that the thread doesn’t come out. This is called the “thread tail”. Then from the right side of the fabric, place your needle halfway through. Angle it so that you can bring the needle back up – it can go over as much as one inch. Pull your needle through, but be sure to hold the thread tail in place so that you don’t pull it out. Repeat the stitch as needed. When you no longer need the basting stitch, simply pull the thread out to remove the stitch.
Running Stitch
The running stitch is used for hemming or repairing clothes, to join fabric together and for topstitching. It is the simplest stitch to learn because the stitch just goes in and out of the fabric. Unlike the backstitch, the running stitch does not double back on any stitches.
Start with a single piece of thread and knot one end. Start working from the wrong side of the fabric. Insert your needle and pull it through. Go over a 1/4 inch and insert the needle halfway. Then angle the needle so that it comes back up through the fabric 1/4 of an inch from where you put the needle in. Pull the needle and thread through. If you find it easier to keep the fabric smooth, you can place the fabric on the table and hold it down with one hand while you pull the needle through with your other hand. Your needle will now be on the right side of the fabric. Repeat this process of placing the needle in and over and then pulling the thread through.
Bailey
Sewing machines help to make sewing faster, but sometimes you need to sew an item by hand, for example, when you are repairing an item. It does take practice to make stitches that are the same length and that go in a straight line, so don’t be discouraged if at first you don’t like the way your stitches look. Keep practicing and you will get the hang of it. To help you get started, here are three basic stitches that you will need to know when sewing by hand.
Backstitch
The backstitch has more strength and will hold better than the running stitch. The reason for this is that your stitches will overlap each other on one side of the fabric. Due to the overlapping stitches, the backstitch will appear different on both sides of the fabric. On one side, the backstitch has many small, even stitches spaced so close together that they look like one continuous line. On the other side, you will notice that the stitches overlap at the ends because the stitches on this side are twice the length as the ones on the other side.
Start with a single piece of thread and knot one end. Start working from the bottom, or wrong side of the fabric and insert the needle. Pull it through until the knot touches the fabric (the knot will be on the bottom). Go over a 1/4 inch and pull the needle through from the top to the bottom. You are then going to go back and insert your needle in the fabric halfway from where you are to the knot where you started – basically you will go back 1/8 of an inch. Pull the needle through. From here you are repeating these stitches: go over a 1/4 inch and pull the needle through the fabric. Go back 1/8 of an inch and pull the needle through. Repeat until you get to the end.
Basting Stitch
The basting stitch is used as a temporary stitch to hold multiple layers together or to gather fabric together instead of using pins or needles to hold the fabric in place. It is much like the running stitch, except that the stitches are much longer.
Start the basting stitch just like you would start the running stitch, except that you won’t form any knots at the end of the thread. First, insert the needle on the wrong side of your fabric and pull it through. Leave a few inches of thread on the wrong side of the fabric and hold in place with your fingers, so that the thread doesn’t come out. This is called the “thread tail”. Then from the right side of the fabric, place your needle halfway through. Angle it so that you can bring the needle back up – it can go over as much as one inch. Pull your needle through, but be sure to hold the thread tail in place so that you don’t pull it out. Repeat the stitch as needed. When you no longer need the basting stitch, simply pull the thread out to remove the stitch.
Running Stitch
The running stitch is used for hemming or repairing clothes, to join fabric together and for topstitching. It is the simplest stitch to learn because the stitch just goes in and out of the fabric. Unlike the backstitch, the running stitch does not double back on any stitches.
Start with a single piece of thread and knot one end. Start working from the wrong side of the fabric. Insert your needle and pull it through. Go over a 1/4 inch and insert the needle halfway. Then angle the needle so that it comes back up through the fabric 1/4 of an inch from where you put the needle in. Pull the needle and thread through. If you find it easier to keep the fabric smooth, you can place the fabric on the table and hold it down with one hand while you pull the needle through with your other hand. Your needle will now be on the right side of the fabric. Repeat this process of placing the needle in and over and then pulling the thread through.
Bailey
Jul
8
Sewing Machines and Sergers for Sale – Finding the Right One for Your Needs
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Bailey Smith asked:
One of the most popular hobbies of the past and present happens to be sewing. A person’s creativity knows virtually no bounds when it comes to creating various items out of cloth using numerous sewing methods. Of course, a tool that will provide saved time and the ability to produce many more complex creations happens to be the sewing machine (and sometimes the serger). Beginning in the 1800s of course they started out only being mechanical later starting around the 70s to present, two additional types of sewing machines including electronic and computerized ones have become available.so what will be best when you are looking to purchase sewing machines for sale.
Numerous sewing machine brands exist for the consumer today. So many exist that for the newbie involved, the choices could almost make one’s head spin. It’s helpful to get a little more knowledge into what you will exactly need a sewing machine for. Since they range in price from around one hundred dollars all way up to thousands, it will be helpful to realize exactly what features will be important.
People in the United States, when asked about brand names of sewing machines will commonly say names like Singer and Brother. These two brands probably have the most notoriety among common people not heavily involved in sewing. However, those with more expertise in this area will have heard about other sewing machines especially from Europe. Additional brands you might not have heard will include Janome, Bernini, Juki, Viking, Pfaff, Simplicity and a few more. actually, many well-versed sewing machine users swear by European made machines. Others like different brands.
However, you need to sit down to look exactly at what you will be using the sewing machine for. Think about the different projects you will be undergoing. Maybe take a look at books in the bookstore or library to understand exactly what might be needed. You might want to talk to friends that have more experience with sewing than you do. Generally many people will have various opinions but when you look for the consensus among them all, it will help you make your decision collectively with knowing which features you’ll need.
You probably will want to consider exactly how much you’ll be using your sewing machine also. Unless you have tons of money, there will be no sense in paying out thousands of dollars for the top-of-the-line sewing machine on sale when you will only use it a few times that of the year. on the other hand, if you definitely know you’ll be involved with using the sewing machine very frequently, you may want pay a little more money for a sewing machine that will allow you to grow with your newly found sewing skills.
Of course, you will have to live with the purchase you eventually may so it will be good for you take the time to investigate further by absorbing as much information as possible about all the ins and outs of using a sewing machine. This time you invest will undoubtedly pay off in the long run by allowing you to acquire the right sewing machine that will suit you best.
Jess
One of the most popular hobbies of the past and present happens to be sewing. A person’s creativity knows virtually no bounds when it comes to creating various items out of cloth using numerous sewing methods. Of course, a tool that will provide saved time and the ability to produce many more complex creations happens to be the sewing machine (and sometimes the serger). Beginning in the 1800s of course they started out only being mechanical later starting around the 70s to present, two additional types of sewing machines including electronic and computerized ones have become available.so what will be best when you are looking to purchase sewing machines for sale.
Numerous sewing machine brands exist for the consumer today. So many exist that for the newbie involved, the choices could almost make one’s head spin. It’s helpful to get a little more knowledge into what you will exactly need a sewing machine for. Since they range in price from around one hundred dollars all way up to thousands, it will be helpful to realize exactly what features will be important.
People in the United States, when asked about brand names of sewing machines will commonly say names like Singer and Brother. These two brands probably have the most notoriety among common people not heavily involved in sewing. However, those with more expertise in this area will have heard about other sewing machines especially from Europe. Additional brands you might not have heard will include Janome, Bernini, Juki, Viking, Pfaff, Simplicity and a few more. actually, many well-versed sewing machine users swear by European made machines. Others like different brands.
However, you need to sit down to look exactly at what you will be using the sewing machine for. Think about the different projects you will be undergoing. Maybe take a look at books in the bookstore or library to understand exactly what might be needed. You might want to talk to friends that have more experience with sewing than you do. Generally many people will have various opinions but when you look for the consensus among them all, it will help you make your decision collectively with knowing which features you’ll need.
You probably will want to consider exactly how much you’ll be using your sewing machine also. Unless you have tons of money, there will be no sense in paying out thousands of dollars for the top-of-the-line sewing machine on sale when you will only use it a few times that of the year. on the other hand, if you definitely know you’ll be involved with using the sewing machine very frequently, you may want pay a little more money for a sewing machine that will allow you to grow with your newly found sewing skills.
Of course, you will have to live with the purchase you eventually may so it will be good for you take the time to investigate further by absorbing as much information as possible about all the ins and outs of using a sewing machine. This time you invest will undoubtedly pay off in the long run by allowing you to acquire the right sewing machine that will suit you best.
Jess
Jul
4
Long Arm Sewing Machines
Filed Under Home And Family | Comments Off
Alison Cole asked:
Long arm sewing machines are different from models such as light weight sewing machines, medium-duty sewing machines, heavy duty sewing machines, and special purpose sewing machines.
Long arm sewing machines are Compound Feed sewing machines. They can be used for sewing medium and heavy weight materials. Features include: 18 inch long arm, auto lubrication by pump, selection of special needle gauge, safety clutch device protecting hook, vertical-axis twice large rotary hook etc. Long arm sewing machine also includes Zig Zag TONY H-301L Zig Zag Sewing Machine (Large Hook) for Mid & Heavy Material. It is used for making leather bags, shoes etc. It is also used in garment industries.
The Ontarian 300 is a long arm sewing machine produced by OSA (Ontario Sewing Automation). This long arm sewing machine has the speed of a standard 11″ sewing machine. It gives the clearance under the arm of up to 72 inches. This machine is used for stitching tents, greenhouse covers, truck tarpaulins; reinforced swimming pool safety covers etc.
Juki TL98Q long arm sewing machine has the following features: easy bobbin replacement, extended sewing area, automatic needle threader without eye strain, knee lifter lever helps to lift the presser foot without using hands, sews heavy weight materials easily, machine, foot pedal switch for thread trimming increases sewing efficiency, even feed foot helps this type of machine to produce beautiful seams when sewing velvet and georgette.
Some long arm sewing machines have free space measuring 420mm width which allows the operator to handle a large sewing product easily.
Delkar Machine Company produces long arm sewing machines. These long arm sewing machines are used to stitch golf bags, filter bags, car covers, airplane covers, parachutes, aircraft fabric covers, awnings etc..
Long arm sewing machines can be purchased on-line or from local stores. Payment can be made using credit card, Master card etc.
Gene
Long arm sewing machines are different from models such as light weight sewing machines, medium-duty sewing machines, heavy duty sewing machines, and special purpose sewing machines.
Long arm sewing machines are Compound Feed sewing machines. They can be used for sewing medium and heavy weight materials. Features include: 18 inch long arm, auto lubrication by pump, selection of special needle gauge, safety clutch device protecting hook, vertical-axis twice large rotary hook etc. Long arm sewing machine also includes Zig Zag TONY H-301L Zig Zag Sewing Machine (Large Hook) for Mid & Heavy Material. It is used for making leather bags, shoes etc. It is also used in garment industries.
The Ontarian 300 is a long arm sewing machine produced by OSA (Ontario Sewing Automation). This long arm sewing machine has the speed of a standard 11″ sewing machine. It gives the clearance under the arm of up to 72 inches. This machine is used for stitching tents, greenhouse covers, truck tarpaulins; reinforced swimming pool safety covers etc.
Juki TL98Q long arm sewing machine has the following features: easy bobbin replacement, extended sewing area, automatic needle threader without eye strain, knee lifter lever helps to lift the presser foot without using hands, sews heavy weight materials easily, machine, foot pedal switch for thread trimming increases sewing efficiency, even feed foot helps this type of machine to produce beautiful seams when sewing velvet and georgette.
Some long arm sewing machines have free space measuring 420mm width which allows the operator to handle a large sewing product easily.
Delkar Machine Company produces long arm sewing machines. These long arm sewing machines are used to stitch golf bags, filter bags, car covers, airplane covers, parachutes, aircraft fabric covers, awnings etc..
Long arm sewing machines can be purchased on-line or from local stores. Payment can be made using credit card, Master card etc.
Gene