The world of stabilizers isn’t cut and dried and, in fact, myriad versions have been added in just the last year or so. There are cut-aways, heat-aways, tear-aways, wash-aways, fusibles and on and on–but what do all these terms mean and when should you use what for your projects? Are stabilizers just for embroidery, or do they have other uses as well? Sew, Craft, Quilt and Embroidery Confidently with Sulky Stabilizers helps to answer all those quandaries.
Yes, it is specific to one brand, but the information is like no other found in one single place. In addition to defining each stabilizer type and its characteristics, the book details where and how to use it, even down to a recommended thread type and size, and the appropriate needle.
Filled with project ideas from appliques to thread lace scarves, and corded crafts to embroidered sweatshirts, this book is sure to have you grabbing for the Post-Its to mark what you’ll want to try next.
In addition to the projects in the book, the accompanying CD has 6 bonus projects, and all the patterns. As if that’s not enough, there are also some recipes from the sewing stars whose works are featured in the book! 200 pages.
March 21, 2011 – 12:08 pm
Who doesn’t love the cuddly warmth or a sweatshirt?…It could be the national uniform of stay-at-home types, but it no longer has to stay home! Start with a Sweatshirt 2 is the second book by Nancie Wiseman that uses these sturdy knits as a basis for making some spiffy jackets. The author showcases five projects that involve adding colorful cottons, some artful quilting, and clever closures to create stylish jackets suitable for almost any occasion. So put away the pounds-adding batting and use a sweatshirt as the basis for your art. In addition to the specific instructions for each project, there is a lot of basic info on converting, fitting and styling the sweatshirt, plus info on creating bias and innovative closures. 32 pages.
I have some knit sweaters that I’d like to recycle to other projects. How’s the best way to do this without having them unravel when I cut out the motifs?
There are several ways to do this successfully and save those cute snowmen, Santas or whatever design you love. If the sweater is wool, one of the easiest ways to work with it is to felt it. Throw the sweater into the washer and dryer on hot temperature settings and let the fibers shrink and compact. This will alter the design motifs slightly, but you can then simply cut the fabric into any shape you want without fear of it raveling. Felted fabric is sturdier than its original knit state as the wool fibers have interlocked closely.
If you don’t want a felted look, or the sweater is synthetic, consider fusing a lightweight interfacing behind the area you want to save, before cutting into it. This will stabilize the knit and add some body to keep the cut edges from pulling out.
If you prefer not to add additional stability to the area, simply stitch around the motifs you want to recycle and cut close to the stitching to prevent raveling.
February 28, 2011 – 1:34 pm
If you’re thinking of turning your sewing hobby into a business, pick up this 184-page book first. While not specific to sewing, Creative, Inc. discusses in detail the running of a successful freelance business. You’ll learn to set fees, create written agreements, make a business plan, network with other entrepreneurs and keep your own books. This tome is full of case studies and interviews with creative types who run their various types of businesses with aplomb. It also includes the pitfalls of doing your own thing.
SEW-lutions tip: Interested in the business of teaching sewing? SCA”s “Trained Sewing Instructor Workshop” teaches business skills specifically for sewing educators.
February 23, 2011 – 10:31 am
Who doesn’t remember having to wear clothing from an older sibling or a family friend in an effort to save on the clothes budget? Hand-me-ups, by Lorine Mason, adds a new twist to hand-me-down garments. She actually encourages the reworking of thrift store finds and new-to-you kid’s clothing. There are more than 25 garments and accessories that look great after their makeovers, and any kid would be proud to sport them. An introductory chapter covers the basics techniques used in the projects–from ruffles and appliques to prairie points and hand embroidery. If your child likes denim, head to the Denim Do-Overs chapter for some clever re-do ideas. Full-color step by-step photos make following the instructions a cinch, even for beginners. An enclosed CD contains the embellishment patterns and designs featured in the book.
