September 7, 2011 – 4:26 pm
It’s National Sewing Month!
The observance of National Sewing Month began in 1982 with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan declaring September as National Sewing Month “In recognition of the importance of home sewing to our Nation.”
As we all know though, our passions for sewing today are a probably just a tiny bit different than they were in 1982! Well, that is for those of us who were around in 1982… I don’t know about you, but back then, I was sewing because I couldn’t afford to buy what I wanted. Today I sew because I really do want to make it myself. Store bought is nice, but the size is always wrong, the color’s not quite right… so off we go to the fabric store (or the fabric stash). Sure, we all still sew for utilitarian purposes, but all it takes is one look at Etsy and you’ll see how those creative juices REALLY flow. I particularly love that new sewists just dive right in – no more first timer A-line skirt project. And with intuitive machines, fun fabrics, easier patterns and a bit of spunk, I hear myself saying WOW quite a bit when friends share their first time projects. I’m impressed!
We hope you’re doing something special to celebrate National Sewing Month. Maybe it’s time to finish those UFO’s, take a class, join a group or start that business. Whatever you decide to do, why not share it with us on Facebook – join in the discussion!
September 2, 2011 – 10:14 am
What is a licensed fabric, and are there restrictions on using these?
A licensed fabric is one where the manufacturer has a legal agreement with the creator of the artwork or design printed on the goods. For example, there are some fabrics that showcase Disney characters or other movie studio heroes, or a particular brand of candy, just as examples. In these instances, the fabric company has to pay the owners of the trademarked icons a fee and/or a royalty for the use of their imagery.
There may be restrictions on the use of the fabric printed with these images. Most common is that you cannot use the fabric to create something and sell it, like at a craft fair or bazaar. Restrictions are often printed on the selvage of the fabric with phrases like “for personal use only.” Other times you’ll need to read the end of the bolt to check on any usage restrictions.
If you don’t adhere to the licensing terms, you can find yourself entangled in a lawsuit for copyright violation, depending on how seriously the company wants to pursue its rights. It’s best not to take the chance; honor the agreement.
August 14, 2011 – 12:33 am
Pantone has released their Fall 2011 fashion color report and the results are both bright and neutral. Wait.. what? Bright AND neutral? Although it sounds odd when you say it, just look at the colors – they are simply beautiful. This year’s New York Fashion Week designers are using neutral colors like quarry, orchid hush, nougat and coffee liqueur combine with deep teal and cedar to evoke a feeling of comfort and warmth. Much like a painter creating a work of art though, they are adding romantic brights in phlox, honeysuckle, emberglow and bamboo to draw the eye and add the WOW factor. It’s going to be a colorful year!
Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2011
August 13, 2011 – 4:06 pm
I hear the term “microfiber” all the time, but I’m not sure what it means. Can you explain?
The term microfiber simply means a very fine fiber. In current sewing use it refers to a thin man-made fiber such as polyester, nylon, acetate or sometimes rayon. The fibers can be made into woven or knitted fabrics that are strong and durable, but sometimes a challenge to sew and press.
For woven microfiber fabrics, sew them holding the seamline in front and back of the needle as you stitch to avoid puckering. Or the seams can also be serged. To hold seams flat, they’re often topstitched after pressing (see Guideline 12.225 Topstitching) for more information.
Microfiber fabrics are very soft and drapable, so are popular for dresses and loose fitting tops or pants
