February 18, 2011 – 10:17 am
I’m new to sewing and wondered about using a rotary cutter instead of scissors for cutting. Any advice?
Rotary cutters come in several sizes, from 18mm to 45mm blades, and are perfect for cutting long, straight cuts. Quilters love them for their speed and accuracy. Because of the sharp blade, a rotary cutter must be used with a protective mat underneath the area being cut. When using them for cutting long straight edges, they’re best paired with a ruler which serves as an edge guide.
Some garment sewers use rotary cutters for cutting out their patterns, but their nature can make them a little tricky to use around tight curves. If you’re cutting tight armholes and neckline curves, use a smaller size blade; reserve the larger blades for longer, straighter sections like skirt side seams and hemlines.
Whether you use scissors or a rotary cutter is really a matter of preference and what works for you. Try both methods, then decide.
In addition to the straight blade, rotary cutting blades come in pinking, scalloped and other novelty edges, perfect for finishing fleece and other non-woven fabrics.
SEW-lutions Tip: For more information on rotary cutters and scissors, see SEW-lutions Guidelines #1.130 Scissors and Shears and #1.133 Rotary Cutters
February 14, 2011 – 11:16 pm
Take a look back in time with Amy Barickman’s Vintage Notions book. Based on the wisdom of Mary Brooks Picken, a pioneer in domestic arts and international dressmaking authority, this book offers something for everyone–from recipes and decorating ideas to a dozen sewing projects from years past. There are inspirational essays and a project for each calendar month. The book also offers modern day tips as updates to some of the original instructional material. There’s an extensive stitchery glossary included as well. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back and read to your heart’s delight… a step back in time. 244 pages.
February 10, 2011 – 5:19 pm
Why does my sewing machine skip stitches?
The first thing to check when your machine starts skipping stitches is the needle. If you haven’t replaced it in a while, do it now. Be sure that the needle shank is inserted all the way into the needle bar and follow the directions in your owner’s manual for proper installation.
It’s possible that you have the wrong type of needle for the sewing that you’re doing. For example, if you’re working on knits, change to a stretch needle with a more rounded point to avoid damaging the knit fibers. If you’re topstitching, you’ll need a needle with a larger eye to accommodate the heavier thread. For more information on selecting the right needle, see SEW-lutions Guideline 22.115 Sewing Machine Needle Chart.
Fabric that isn’t preshrunk can also cause some stitching difficulties. Residual finishes can cause skipped stitches, so always preshrink before sewing.
Incorrect machine threading can be another culprit–be sure the bobbin is inserted properly.
Be sure your sewing machine is clean and lint-free. Follow the instruction manual to clean and lubricate the machine, if needed. If all else fails, talk with your sewing machine service person about the skipped stitches, as it can be a timing problem.
February 4, 2011 – 3:47 pm
Do I need to pre-shrink interfacing before I use it? If so, what’s the best method?
It is a good idea to pre-shrink interfacings, and other garment components, before using them to avoid potential disaster later. It’s ugly if some portions of a finished garment shrink during laundering and others don’t.
To pre-shrink washable sew-in interfacings (non-fusible type), simply launder them in the washer and tumble dry. You can also line-dry them, if you prefer.
To pre-shrink washable fusibles, loosely fold the length and soak in a basin of hot water until the water cools off. Then roll the interfacing in a towel to remove the excess moisture and hang to dry.
To handle dry-clean-only interfacings (non-fusibles) used in tailoring projects, simply steam them or use a damp press cloth with a dry iron to press.
When you label interfacings in your stash, note whether or not they’ve been pre-shrunk so there’s no doubt when you’re ready to use them.
SEW-lutions tip: For more information on interfacings, see Guideline 5.110 – Interfacing 101
January 31, 2011 – 3:47 pm
If you loved this author’s first It’s a Wrap book, It’s a Wrap II will tempt you to go running to the hardware store yet again. Using ordinary cotton clothesline covered with fabric, designer Susan Breier creates baskets, totes, vases and bowls with superb shaping and style. Beyond the basics of this fun sew-able art form, look for the addition of buttons, beads and other unique findings to accent the shaped creations, as well as handles and lids. A gallery of projects will make you want to sew them up and try your own ideas. Colorful photos showcase the projects and step-by-step instructions.
