#1 Tape paper bags to the edge of your workspace and catch threads as you snip. #2 Plan ahead and save time by making two of a kind. #3 Run a hot iron over a dryer or fabric softener sheet to clean. #4 A roller of paper towels can double as a pressing ham. #5 Use bricks to raise a standard table to cutting height. #6 Use a three ring binder to organize machine manuals. #7 Accordion fold larger cuts of fabric and zig zag stitch along the selvage before washing and drying to prevent bunching. Then, when dry, remove or cut off the stitches. #8 As fabric weight and density increases so should the needle size. For our projects, crafted from cotton fabric with interfacing, a universal size 90/14 needle is ideal. #9 If in doubt about the longevity of the needle in use - replace it. Needles are the least expensive aspect of sewing. #10 Disposable mascara wands are the perfect tool for cleaning dust from the bobbin case. —Peggy Nelson, Sewing Club Member #11 For highly defined topstitching using a topstitching needle. #12 Keep bobbin and thread sets organized by threading pipe cleaners through both and looping the end of the pipe cleaner over to lock in place. #13 Rather than tossing a badly wound bobbin into the thread case use it in place of your thread spool to rewind the bobbin correctly. #14 Store smaller cuts of fabric in bins sorted by color for use in scrap buster type projects.
#15 Use a pants hanger to hang up larger cuts of fabric. #16 Save your selvage to reference when color matching or reordering fabric. #17 Cotton, cotton/polyester or polyester thread can be used when sewing cotton fabric. #18 Hot glue magnets to the bottom of a glass dish to create a diy pin holder. #19 If you want to sew a straight line; train yourself to watch the guide not the needle. #20 Keep a design notebook to track the fabric used, alterations and future ideas for each project you make. #21 Place a small cut of non slip rug pad under your presser foot to keep it from sliding across the floor while you sew. #22 Keep a bottle of lemon essential oil nearby to remove residue from your needle. --Peggy Nelson, Sewing Club Member #23 Use spray starch to thicken fabric and achieve crisp corners. Comments are closed.
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welcome!Whether you are a sewing novice or an expert in your craft, the sewing club offers you an opportunity to make new friends, expand your skills and share your passion for the art of sewing in a supportive virtual environment.
Club lEADERLargely self-taught, Andrea has been sewing full-time as a hobby and profession since 2006. She especially enjoys teaching, pattern design, sewing bags and accessories. It is her belief that creativity is an essential element of well-being and sewing is a practical and enjoyable way to express your creativity, connect with other artistic people and build lasting friendships. To learn more about Andrea and see samples of her work, visit Sewspire.com New? Start HereClick for an overview of club happenings.
Tips & TricksClick "Tips & Tricks" for inspiration.
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