Sew Fabulous!

Modest Dress Project

2011-04-13T16:18:00.000-06:00

Perfect example of my personal and churches view on modesty and fashion. What a cool story!

Lil Dragon

2010-10-18T11:56:00.000-06:00

So here he is...the cutest little blue dragon you have ever seen! This is my 19mo olds Halloween costume for this year. Vote for him in the Parents and Parenting magazine costume contests. (Links Below!) Thanks!


RARRRR!

Please vote for the little guy on the following contests....

Here

and

Here

Just click on the link and "like" or "vote"

Thanks!

Dress design for Shabby Apple dresses

2010-10-12T19:31:00.002-06:00

Shabby Apple Dresses is having their annual Dare to Design Contest. This year I decided to enter.

According to the Shabby Apple Website the winner Winner’s design will be featured as part of the Shabby Apple spring collection.What a cool prize!

The top 15 entries will be posted on the Shabby Apple blog by October 22, 2010. Blog readers will vote on their favorite entry. The contestant whose design receives the most votes by November 15, 2010 will win. Winner will be announced on the Shabby Apple blog by November 22, 2010. So stay tuned!

Here are my entries.....

#1 (my husband lovingly calls this one the "June Cleaver")

Tune into the Shabby Apple Blog to see the finalists and vote on the winner.

Adorable Crocheted Baby Hat

2010-10-07T12:10:00.000-06:00

Find the Great Tutorial Here at Asthetic Nest.

Hemming Jeans

2010-10-01T12:02:00.000-06:00

I didn't write this tutorial myself. But I have been meaning to write this for a very long time. I have hemmed jeans like this before, and it is definitely the best way to do it! Thank you Naptime Crafters Great Tutorial!

Cutting Fabric with Cricut

2010-09-27T17:35:00.000-06:00

Here is a great tutorial. Thanks Oopsey Daisy!

Awesome Idea for Turning a Fabric Tube

2010-09-20T17:32:00.000-06:00

I loved this idea!!! Can't wait to try it out.

A Modern Twist on an Old Idea

2010-09-13T10:48:00.001-06:00

Lots of cute Vintage aprons with a modern twist! LOVE THEM!

Adding Length to a dress

2010-09-09T12:03:00.000-06:00

Make it and love it has some great tips on adding length to a dress to make it more modest. Check it out here!

There is also a company called Vintage Hem that is kind of the same idea. They make slips that are suppose to "show" and add to the design and character of the dress. You can find them here.

Modest Alteration Ideas

2010-09-07T12:10:00.004-06:00

Michele Ashman Bell came out with a new novel I think about 2 years ago called, "A Modest Proposal." I haven't read it yet so I can't tell you if it is good. But what I can tell you is her tips on altering dresses to be more modest are great.

Here they are...

Use fabric from matching shawl to add sleeves
Purchase or make a shrug/cardigan to match or contrast
If dress is bargain priced, buy two. Extra fabric can be used to modify dress.
It’s easy to add wide straps or sleeves to strapless gowns
Fill plunging necklines and high slits with contrasting or matching lace or extra fabric
Hem long dresses and use excess fabric to modify dress
Ask store if leftover fabric is available for use to modify
Layers are in! Use a simple or lace under-tee to cover shoulders, chest or midriff
Lengthen skirts by adding a wide lace or fabric trim to the hem or layer a matching slip

Remember, be creative and have fun! Take the challenge of putting your personal stamp on your wardrobe, and when people ask where you found such an awesome dress that is actually modest, you can be proud of your amazing mod-alter designer skills!

www.covenant-lds.com

Diaper Cover

2010-09-06T11:10:00.003-06:00

Love these. I don't love seeing baby's diapers hang out. I've been meaning to make a pattern for this for a while. Dana did it for us! For all you photographers out there. These would be great for all your newborn shoots.

Felt Playhouse

2010-08-25T15:49:00.001-06:00

This has been on my to-do list for a long time. It has been my latest project during nap time. Its taken me weeks! but it is finally finished. I took inspiration from.....

Here

and the tools are inspired by this and this

another favorite house idea is here.

I did like a lot of ideas I found but I wanted to make it unique too. Most importantly my 18 month old LOVES it.

So Without further ado.....

The entry way, complete with working mailbox.

The Dog House, JJ loves the flowers and I'm in the process of making some "bugs" for the pockets.

A plentiful harvest! Little squirrel in the tree.

My Favorite side for sure. I didn't want the playhouse to be too girly so I had to get creative on what a boy would want in his house. The tools fit on the pegboard, in the tool box or on the apron. Justin loves them.

Shade Closing!

2010-08-21T10:59:00.001-06:00

Sad to hear about a great MODEST clothing company closing. I am a former employee, and frequent customer sorry to see them go!

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

New Modest Swim Finds

2010-05-27T09:47:00.001-06:00

I think I have a little obsession with swimming suits. I've been waiting for someone to do a more "vintage" looking line. Here are Shabby Apple's new ones...

I love them! and Grosgrain is doing a giveaway! So head on over there to enter.

Have a Great Day!

Rag Rug

2010-05-18T09:05:00.001-06:00

When I was student teaching junior high school sewing. Some of my students were making these. Its a fairly easy crochet project because the hook used is so big.

Sugar Bee has a good tutorial for these Rag Rugs Here. They even have a video. Check them out!

Hapari Swim Give Away

2010-05-04T15:48:00.005-06:00

If you couldn't tell from previous posts I'm kind of obsessed with modest swimming suits. I get so excited when I see the new suits for the season come out.

I know the lady who owns this company. (I worked for her other company for a bit, when I lived in UT) She is wonderful! Her suits are so cute! and I love that they are modest.

Check them out!

Also...

is giving away a fabulous tankini! Hurry over and enter!

Just for Me...and You: William Riera Review and {GIVEAWAY!!}

2010-04-20T10:53:00.002-06:00

I personally worked with this designer when I was working for Shade clothing. William Riera is AMAZING. He has a new line out! Its gorgeous!

Just for me and you is giving a dress away! Check them out here.

Just for Me...and You: William Riera Review and {GIVEAWAY!!}

Felt My Potato Head

2010-01-28T16:07:00.001-07:00

I haven't had much time to do any projects lately but when I saw this I had to make it. My nephews had a Priate Birthday Party last week so I made this for the 3 year olds gift.

I think it turned out really cute.

Here are some other parts.

If your interested the tutorial is found here.

Fabric Barn

2009-10-28T18:04:00.002-06:00

I found this tutorial just randomly and I fell in LOVE with it. I knew my little boy needed one to house his squeeky animals.

I used pellon instead of the plastic grid stuff. Its not as stiff as I wanted but I think it turned out pretty cute. I can't wait to make this one again.

What a great tutorial UK lass. LOVE IT!

Mod Cloth Swimwear

2009-06-30T12:44:00.001-06:00

New Modest Swimsuit Find

2009-02-16T14:45:00.003-07:00

Yes, I'm still under construction and I apologize. It may stay that way for a while since I'm expecting my 1st baby any day now.

But.... I found a great site (THANKS BRIANNE!) with a modest swim line. I couldn't resist posting about it. I hadn't heard of them before now so I wanted to give them a plug.

They have great designs
One piece suits and tankinis
Fun Prints!!!
Prices are a little bit more than some other companies but pretty comparable.

Check out Shades new swim styles and Modbe as well. (See links on left side bar under Modest Lines) Ideally companies should release their swim lines by the 1st of March.

Under Construction

2008-11-20T16:30:00.004-07:00

I'm in the process of redoing this blog. Please be patient with me I should have all the links up and running again soon.

Whitney

Ammee's Babies

2008-11-17T15:25:00.006-07:00

I just came across a site for Hemsistched Baby Gift Kits! I get so excited when I find new websites!

I received an email from a reader recently asking for more hemstitching retailers. This may be a good option for those who don't have access to a company that will hemsistch for them.

This company provides kits that include a hemsistched blanket, burp cloth, thread, a hook and easy to follow instructions.
I think this is a great idea. A One Stop Shop. And after you complete your gift you can wrap and give it in the box the kit came in.
They also have many pattern books, a learning center to teach you how to crochet, wash and care for your projects etc...

They promote "Going Green" and they also Donate a portion of their proceeds to underprivileged babies! and they also have a great FREE PATTERN!

Here is a link to Amees Blog if you are interested in finding out more about her.

Although have not personally purchased from this site but they do have a money back guarantee and they seem like a reliable and reputable company. If you are looking for an option for hemsistched blankets this company may be worth a try!

Yarn Tree

2008-11-17T15:12:00.003-07:00

I'm not a really big Cross Stitcher (my sister is much better at it than I am) but I do find it enjoyable. Recently I have been researching different Cross Stitch sites and I came across this one and thought I'd share.
Yarn Tree a company out of Iowa has a great site. With lots of information, products, links and free stuff.

My favorite thing about their site is the Cross Stitch Calculator. It allows you to enter your fabric count, and your stitch count (width by height) and it will give you the dimensions in inches.

It is so awesome because you can figure out fast how big your project is going to end up and how it will change if you decide to change your fabric count. I highly recommend it. If you are into Cross Stitching this site is for you.

Awesome Contest Giveaway!

2008-10-10T19:20:00.001-06:00

So I know this has nothing to do with sewing but it is for a good cause.

I just found out about a contest/giveaway that the Little Window Shop is doing.

They are giving away and awesome doll house to one lucky reader. They are also giving a doll house to Primary Children's Hospital. You can be part of it too. Visit the Little Window Shop and read the blog post. They are allowing everyone to sign the card and write well wishes. I think its such a fun gift for these kids. And would be awesome for any little girl to have in her toy collection.

To learn more about the doll house visit this link. To enter the contest visit the Little Window Shop.

If you have never been to LWS before you need to check them out. A friend from my Wymount ward started it. Emily features fun stores, ideas, blogs, anything a girl would love. I have gotten lots of great ideas from this website. So if you haven't visited please do. And Good Luck in the Contest!

Blog Sabbatical

2008-06-01T18:42:00.001-06:00

So I decided to take a break from blogging. (This is one of 3 I am currently doing). I want to spend more time sewing for myself and family. Having some down time to relax and spending time with my husband and friends we will be leaving soon. I promise it won't be too long...

Until I'm back...Best Wishes...Keep Sewing!

What NOT to Wear

2008-05-27T12:33:00.002-06:00

My new favorite show is What not to Wear. Unfortunately we do not get TLC on our cable so I have looked every where to watch them online.

This is the only place.

Although I think Stacey is a little harsh sometimes I love to hear the tips they give. I watch and think what would they say about my fashion sense. And I think of people I would love to nominate! If you haven't seen it check it out.

Retro Swimming Suits

2008-05-10T18:48:00.005-06:00

So once again I am being obsessed with Swimming Suits. I found these cool retro swimming suits at Urban Outfitters.

If you are brave enough to go retro, these are really CUTE! and most are MODEST!

Check them out!

Topless Undershirt

2008-05-10T18:09:00.006-06:00

Kind of ironic don't you think? But I think this is a fabulous idea! TOPLESS UNDERSHIRTS! They are so awesome for all those shirts, (everybody has them) that just aren't long enough! and they are also great for nursing moms! Lift your shirt up to nurse and not worry about your tummy or back showing. Not to mention the greatness of not having another seam at your underarm in the summer when you are already wearing enough clothes as it is.

They are also awesome because they will give any of my readers 20% off a purchase of 2 or more shirts! Use the code "welovebloggers"

Check them out!
THANK YOU BLUSH!

BLUSH, Topless Undershirts

Color Matching

2008-04-23T11:23:00.003-06:00

For those of you who have problems figuring out color schemes for projects, quilts, or digital scrapbooking layouts. I have found two great websites to help you out.

Color Match Remix

and

Adobe's Kuler Labs
(You have to install flash player 9 to use this!)

I have had so much fun with these websites and they have been a great help to me in creating designs!

Make your own Dress Form

2008-04-15T18:39:00.000-06:00

Threads has a great article on how to make your own dress form. Here is the one I made for myself to drape my wedding dress. My dad made the stand with metal pipes.

Try it yourself. Its moderately difficult to make and fairly inexpensive. It is pretty time consuming. I encourage you to try it for yourselves.

Pros:

Its cheaper than buying a real dress form
It is an exact clone of your body

Cons:

Its hard to get it really firm
Your pins get sticky from the tape

More Advanced, Crocheted Edge Patterns

2008-04-13T20:00:00.000-06:00

I got these instructions from the cotton shop in Provo. As far as I know they are not copyrighted.

Kugs and Kisses:
Row 1: ss in the first hole, ch 3. sc iin the hole to the right of the one you ss in. Skip over the hole you ss in and also skip the next hole. (you should be moving left). *ch3, sc in the skipped hole to the right. Moving left skip the sc and the next hole, sc in the next hole* repeat * to * around. Finish off.

Triangles and Arches:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 5, (this is 1 dc and 2ch), dc in the same stitch. Skip 2 stitches and *dc in the third stitch, ch 2, dc in the same stitch* Repeat * to * around. ss, to join. (This makes a row of triangles, every other one inverted.)
Row 3: *3 dc in the upper flat part of the 1st inverted triangle, then 1 sc in the point of the second upright triangle,* Repeat from * to *, ss to join. Finish off.

Lace and Waves:
Row 1: 1sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 5 (this is 1 dc and 2 ch), dc in the sam estitch. Skip 2 stitches and *dc in the third stitch, ch 2 dc in the same stitch*. Repeat * to * around, ss to join. (This makes a row of triangels every other one inverted)
Row 3: (You will ONLY be working in the upper flat part of the triangles)
*First upper triangle-sc
Second upper triangle- 3 dc
Third upper triangle- 4 tr
Fourth upper triangle- 3 dc*
Repeat * to * around, ss to join. Finish off.

Medium Difficulty, Crocheted Edge Patterns

2008-04-13T17:00:00.002-06:00

I got these instructions from the cotton shop in Provo. As far as I know they are not copyrighted.

Fence Post:
Row 1: 2 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 3 *sc in every other hole*, Repeat around. ss to join.
Row 3: ch 3 (this counts as the 1st dc), dc in the same stitch, ch 2 then 2 dc in the same stitch. In every other loop of the 2nd row, *2 dc, ch2, 2 dc*, ss to join. Finish off.

Two Tone Loops:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: *ch 8, sc in the 4th hole*. Repeat * to * around, (you may need to adjust at the end). Finish off.
Row 3: With another thread color: sc in the middle stitch of the 3 stitches between loops from the second row. *ch8, sc in the middle stitch, alternating front and back over the loops of the second row*, This makes a twisted loop and also helps to hold up the loops evenly. Repeat * to * around. Finish off.

Heavy Ruffle:
Row 1: 2 sc in each hole. ss to join.
Row 2: Chain 3, (this counts as the 1st dc). dc in the same stitch. *2 dc in each space* repeat around. (Expect a LOT of rippling), ss to join.
Row 3: ch 2, 1 sc in each space, ss to join. Finish off.

For variety, it looks good if row 1 & 3 are the same color and row 2 is a different color.

Easy Crocheted Edge Patterns

2008-04-13T15:44:00.001-06:00

I have learned from experience that beginners should use a few specific tools that make the process easier.

100% Cotton Thread (Bedspread Weight) size 10 or 12 would be ideal.
Crochet hook size 5

After you are use to crocheting well with this thread and hook then you can try your luck with nylon thread and a smaller size hook (7)

I got these instructions from the cotton shop in Provo. As far as I know they are not copyrighted.

Abbreviations:
ch=chain, sc=single crochet, dc=double crochet, tr=triple crochet, ss=slip stitch
(I have listed the easier to learn patterns 1st)

Simple Edge:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 2, 1 sc in each stitch, ss to join. finish off

Basic Shell:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 2, 1 sc in each stitch, ss to join.
Row 3: ch 2, 1 sc in first stitch, skip 2 stitches, *(6 dc in the next stitch) skip 2 stitches, 1 sc in the next stitch, skip 2 stitches*, repeat * to * around, ss to join, Finish off.

Basic Picot:
Row 1: 2 sc in the first and second holes, *in the third hole sc, then chain 3, ss in the top of the same se (#3) you are working on (this makes a picot), then sc in the same hole (#3), sc in the next 2 holes*, repeat from * to * around, ss to join, Finish off.

Basic Ruffle:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole, ss to join.
Row 2: ch 3 (counts as the 1st dc), dc in the same stitch. 2 dc in each stitch around, ss to join.
Row 3: ch 2, then 1 sc in each stitch around, ss to join, Finish off.

Amandas Pride:
Row 1: 1 sc in each hole around, ss to join.
Row 2: *ch 6, skip 4 stitches and sc in the 5th hole.* Repeat * to * around. Finish Off.

Hem Stitching

2008-04-12T13:41:00.000-06:00

For those of you who don't know what hem stitching is I'll explain. Hemstitching is the little holes punched in the edge of burpers, hankies, pillowcases etc... These allow you to crochet the edges of your project easily. With out having to poke your own holes.

You can buy articles pre-made at some local fabric stores. Or at the Quilted Bear (if you are in Utah). Also some stores will hem stitch you on articles you have made yourself. This is really nice because usually the pre-made stuff is not cute at all. The store usually just uses scraps and sometimes the front and back don't even match. The cotton Shop in Provo, I have found them to be the cheapest around. They currently charge $1 a linear yard. Not bad really. They have done a good job for me in the past. Also you can get packets online at the Fabric Mill. They also have the pattern booklets.

Also, there is a really easy way to hemstitch on your home machine. The requirements are as follows.

1. Your machine has do to a "Star Stitch" (or something similar, where the needle hits the same place multiple times.)

2. You have to have a "Winged Needle" (the sides are wider and poke larger holes than regular needles do)

3.Thread- (I usually use a serger cone) Because you are using a Star stitch you will use kind of a lot of thread.

4. Sew 1/4 from the edge. I like to serge the edges before I start and then star stitch right on the inside edge of my serging.

5. Make sure when you cut out your fabric that the front and back match up. We don't want any bubbles on the edges because one layer is bigger than the other. (If I'm doing a blanket I usually safety pin from the middle out to make sure I avoid this problem.

For the most part I do my own small items, Bibs, Burpers etc... and send the blankets out to be done. Sometimes its just not worth my time and I pay to have it done.

Baby Gifts

2008-04-11T15:23:00.000-06:00

Blankets, Burpers and Bibs are always needed for a new baby. This is what I give all of my friends that are expecting. It is inexpensive, cute and useful! Its also nice to give a gift that you have put your own personal touch to.

Here are some examples of the Crocheted Edge Burpers and Bibs. These are to inspire you, not frustrate you! Keep practicing you'll get the hang of it!

Here are some great booklets with instructions that I like to use. All of the "Cute N' Cuddly" series by Shirley are awesome.

You can buy them at various places but Fabric Mill sells them online along with pre-hemstitched kits.

Learn to Crochet

2008-04-11T14:54:00.000-06:00

I learned the basics of Crochet from my aunt. Then I taught myself how to read patterns. Here is a good website that I think is fairly easy to understand.

With practice you will learn how to read patterns and understand abbreviations. After you learn the basics you will be able to crochet edging...(see next few posts)

Here is another site with video tutorials that show specific stitches. Watch them and try them out for yourself.

GOOD LUCK!

Swimming Suits

2008-04-11T14:28:00.001-06:00

So its the dreaded time to get a new suit for the summer. Having been through swimsuit shopping myself I know how hard it is to find a suit that is... 1. MODEST 2. FITS 3. LOOKS GOOD 4. IS AFFORDABLE.

I am so grateful that I have the skills to make my own. (If I can find fabric!) but I realize that not many people are so fortunate. I wish I had the time and energy to make all of my wonderful friends their own custom suit but unfortunately that is impossible. (My only sister is lucky if she gets one) So in an attempt to help all of you out, I'm listing sites that I have found helpful.

I wish all of you luck in your swim suit search and I would love to hear any experiences you have had (Good and Bad). I'd also love to hear any styles or colors you love and hate.

In a perfect world I would have my own line that solves all of our problems. Maybe someday when my husband is a millionaire (yeah right!) I'll give it a go. But until then these will have to do...

1. BillieJo Clothing:
I worked for this company last spring/summer as a seamstress and had a really good experience. They are right here in Provo and will CUSTOM MAKE you a suit for I think around $75-80. You pick your style, and fabric, and they will fit it to you. They are a great company and have a pretty good variety of fabrics. (However their website isn't great!, its Terrible actually) I recommend going into the store and actually trying samples on. Their address is on the website. Because they do everything in house it takes a while (3-4weeks if they aren't booked) to get your suit made. So go now and get on the waiting list so you have your suit in time for summer.
2. Modbe Clothing:
I have to be honest I have never boughten anything from Modbe but I have only heard good things. And this season I was so impressed with their line! Wow! They are really really cute! And they have a really good selection in fun prints! Go to their website and click on CLOTHING not "Go Shop" to see their new swim line.
3. My Baby Jo:
If you are brave enough to go "Retro" this site has some really cute suits. They have awesome one-pieces. They may rather expensive, but the designs are great!4. Shade Clothing:
I actually worked on Shades 1st swim line when it debued last year. I own some of last seasons styles and the fit is good. The hidden pockets in the bust allow you to add extra padding, which is nice, and The high waisted bottoms hide tummy rolls well. Overall I think you would be happy with a suit from Shade, they are very stylish and very modest which Shade is good at.

A few more....
hapari.com
layersclothing.com (they claim to have modest suits but I wonder about a few, their quality isn't great but take it for what it is worth.)

Hope this info is helpful. And if you have any feedback I'd love to hear

The Posture Pleaser

2008-04-10T15:45:00.000-06:00

This product is a lifesaver for me! If you sit for long hours sewing, using the computer, scrapbooking etc...you need this! Basically if you do anything with your hands in front of you for an extended period of time this will help relieve your shoulder and back pain.

Now I can't live with out it. I definitely notice a difference when I don't use my posture pleasure.

Check out the website...

I thought they only distributed to specialty stores, but I recently found out they sell them online at JoAnns. Right now they are on sale for $30

Pressing Tips

2008-04-09T16:25:00.000-06:00

· Don’t IRON on BIAS it will STRETCH
· If Fabric will tolerate steam USE IT (check if it watermarks)

· Enclosed Edges- Pressed seam open 1^st before rolling shut!

· Use the point presser and Slightly favor the edges!

· Use a damp press cloth if you need more steam

· Press Nap or Pile on needle boards!

· DON’T Press over pins

· Rowena Best Steam Iron

About.com has a great gallery and definitions for Pressing Equipment. Link to it here.

Threading a Sewing Machine

2008-04-08T18:48:00.000-06:00

Threading a sewing machine can be difficult at first. Once you learn how, though, the whole process will take you only a few seconds.

Steps:
1. Raise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you.

2. Raise the presser foot. This will allow the thread to easily pass through the threading points and will prevent the machine needle from becoming unthreaded when you begin to stitch.

3. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin located at the top of your sewing machine. If the spool pin runs horizontally, secure the spool of thread with the cap provided.

4. Take hold of the thread end and pass it through the designated threading points on the top of the machine casing, then down toward the tension assembly. The tension assembly is located on the left side of the machine and controls the flow of thread.

5. Take the thread under the tension assembly and back up through the next threading point at the top left of the machine. Make sure the thread has passed between two tension discs as well as the hook that may be attached to the left side of the tension dial.

6. Push the thread end through the lever at the top left of the machine, if applicable, and down through the threading points at bottom left and above the needle.

7. Thread the needle from the front or back of the needle. The threading direction will depend on your machine type.

8. Pull a few inches of thread through the eye of the needle and pull the thread to your left.

9. Insert a wound bobbin into the machine, if necessary, and close the throat plate. A few inches of bobbin thread should be pulled out to the right and sticking out from under the closed throat plate.

10. Take hold of the thread that has been threaded through the machine needle.

11. Rotate the handwheel toward you until the needle disappears into the bobbin case.

12. Keep holding on to the thread and move the handwheel so the needle is once again at its highest position. As the needle rises, a loop of bobbin thread will come up as well.

13. Pull the thread out toward your left to draw the bobbin thread loop further out of the bobbin case.

14. Let the top thread go and pull the bobbin thread up until the end comes up. Pull the top and bottom threads under the presser foot and to the back and right of the machine.

Tips:

Each style and model of sewing machine has its own requirements for threading. Use the instructions given here along with those provided with your machine. The owner's manual will usually include a threading diagram.

Some styles of sewing machine have the threading points marked or may even have a threading diagram printed on the machine itself.

Detailed instructions on winding and inserting the bobbin for a specific machine can be found in the machine owner's manual.

Change the bobbin thread color when the thread spool color is changed.

(http://www.ehow.com/how_5839_thread-sewing-machine.html)

Interfacing?

2008-04-07T16:42:00.004-06:00

What is Interfacing?
An Underlying Fabric that provides...
Support
Stability
Body
Reinforcement

Where is it found in the garment?
Collars
Cuffs
Waistbands
Pocket Flaps
Jacket Hems
Sleeve Hems
Collarless necklines
Button Closures

What kinds of interfacing are available?
Sew or Fusible
Woven or Non-woven
Knit
Weft Insertion

How do I choose the correct interfacing for my project?

Fabrication should match
Weight Always lighter that the fashion fabric
Care Must Match
Color Match the VALUE (degree of lightness or darkness)
Method of attachment

How do I use interfacing?

Always pres Shrink (Fusibles in a Tub)
Apply to the piece that will show. DON’T APPLY TO FACINGS (your pattern guide sheet will tell you do apply to facing, which makes no sense because your facing doesn't need the stability, form, etc...)
Fuse to a single layer. DON’T FUSE OVER SEAM ALLOWENCES
Fusing cut off the seam allowances before you fuse
Sew-in interfacing should be machine basted at ¼ from the edge following grain.
DON’T substitute the fabric itself in place of interfacing (UNLESS ITS SILK ORGANZA)

Tips on how to Fuse: (HEAT, MOISTURE, PRESSURE, TIME)

Always test on a scrap to give you the look you want
Press Fabric Flat
Trim off seam allowances
Wrong Side Up (Resin Side Down)
USE A PRESS CLOTH
Steam baste 1^st to keep from slipping
Push with 2 hands pressure for 10-15 seconds. Don’t SLIDE the iron!
Let Completely Cool Before Lifting fabric up.

Fabric Preparation

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Preshrink if needed
Find Cross grain

Rip
Pull the Thread
Cut along a woven Design
Block with a L Square

Remove Wrinkles if necessary. Press the Selvage
Fold so selvages are on top of each other. Eliminate wrinkles by sliding layers if needed.
Observe position of cross grains. If They match Perfect! If not, pull on the short ends to re align. Or steam Press!

Standard Ease Amounts

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Bust 2-3
Waist 1-1 and ½
Hip 2-3
Bicep 2-3
Abdomen 1-2
Upper back ¼ to 3/8
Back waist length ¼ to 3/8
Men’s shirts, chests in coats and jackets 4-5 or more depending on style

How Knits and Woven Fabrics Differ...

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Knits have more give unless wovens have stretch yarn
Knits mold to the body better than woven
Knits vary widely in amount of stretch Based on kind of knit fiver yarn and fabric stitch
Lengthwise grain in knits is called ribs and cross grain is called course
Both have more stretch in the cross grain
Garments made form knits need less ease
Knits don’t crease as well as woven and resist wrinkle better
Both cannot be grained straightened if they have been permanently finished that way.
A crosswise yarn cannot be pulled in a knit. Square ends with a corner of table.
Knits shrink more than wovens. Preshrink a few times 1^st.
Knits should be cuts as one way print because of a sheen.(like nap)
Stretch fabrics need stretch seams and hems

Choose a stitch with a vertical component a zigzag or a serge it with a double needle
Seams that don’t need stretch (shoulders and hem) stabilize with twill tape.

Knits don’t ravel like wovens but they can run or curl

Lycra stretches 300% and have 100% return rate (spandex trade name)

Negative Ease- Take off ease to accommodate for fabric
Common Knits

Double

Grandmas Closet
Wool Heavy

Interlock

Reversible unless there printed. Run in one direction (put the end that runs at the bottom)

Jersey

Single knits
Face and back are different (Not reversible)
Cheap T-Shirts

Slinky

Poly or Acetate blended with lycra
Frequently ribbed

Sweatshirt
Pique

Golf Shirts

Sweater Knits
4 Way Stretch

Basic Pattern Alteration

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Here are 10 MUST follow rules when you are altering flat patterns.

Pattern must be completely flat when complete
Grain lines must be straight
Don’t alter along CF and CB
Matching edges must still match when finished
Generally you divide circumference by 4
Only add to the area in question.
Maintain the style
Keep CF and CB straight
Redraw seam lines you interrupt
Lengthen 1^st then Widen!

Tips on Taking Body Measurements

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Taking proper body measurements is essential to getting a proper fit. Here are eight rules you should ALWAYS follow when taking body measurements.

Measure the body smoothly. Don’t pull to tight or let hang loose
Breath Loosely
Stand Still- Look straight ahead
Keep tape level
Measure to the ¼ inch
Measuring is an art and a science
Measurements are a snapshot
Measure in your underclothing

What machine should I buy?

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People ask me this question all the time. What machine should I buy? Well, I am very partial to Berninas. I have used these at home and at school. I have only once had a problem with a machine in about 15 years and that problem was promptly corrected, free of charge, at my local Bernina dealer. I think Bernina's are top of the line as far as home sewing machines go. I use mine like an industrial machine and it always runs great! I would recommend any Bernina machine as the #1 machine on my list to anyone looking for the perfect sewing machine.

I have also used 2 older Singers and they have worked well for me.

With that being said..

Threads Magazine has a good review on 31 machines. Here is the link.

I would love to hear about any experience you have had with your machine.

Sewing 101

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Simplicity.com has a great Sewing 101 lessons online. Here is the link. In these lessons there is a downloadable pattern for Pajama Pants. This is a good project for 1st time sewers.

If you are looking for a project to start. Try here.

My Bias to Brands

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My experience has led me to firmly believe that part of your success is in the tools. Certain tools can make or break your project. I have come to realize that some name brands are well worth the money! (And believe me you will pay for them) These are brands I frequently use and love!

Bernina-my sewing machine and my serger.
Moda Fabrics- The best quality cotton quilting fabrics.
Gingher Shears- Other scissors just don't "cut" it.
Vogue Patterns- Sometimes high on the difficulty level, but always more polished and fit better than other companies.
Rowenta- Awesome home irons that work like industrial steam irons

Who am I?

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Hello All,

My name is Whitney and Welcome to SEW FABULOUS!

I learned to sew from my maternal Grandmother when I was 7 years old. With the encouragement of my Mother and paternal Grandmother I gained a love for the art at an early age. Growing up I loved to make my own costumes to play dress up in. I also loved making clothes for my Barbie Dolls. I believe that most of my skill is inherited from these wonderful women in my life. The rest of my skill came from lots of practice.

I graduated from BYU in 2006 with a degree in Family and Consumer Science Education, emphasizing in Clothing Construction. I had great classes and an amazing clothing professor. I love to share the knowledge I have, but I hate teaching public school! Thats why I created this blog.

I have had experience in designing and constructing, tailored garments, wedding dresses, swimming suits, costumes, baby clothes, jeans, purses, and quilts. I have worked as a seamstress for a local company that does custom swim and dance wear. I have also worked for Shade Clothing (the leading modest womens clothing store) as a Production Assistant. At Shade I had the opportunity to work with 3 amazing designers, and an incredible director of operations, who taught me how to source and work with manufacturers.

I love fashion! Especially vintage fashion. My favorite style is Classic 60's. Jackie Kennedy is my ultimate fashion queen!

I have a strong conviction of modesty. I wholeheartedly believe that everyone can be fashionable, trendy and modest at the same time. This quote, from a former President of the University attended, and a current member of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, describes how I feel about modesty perfectly.

“Modesty in dress is a quality of mind and heart, born of respect for oneself, one’s fellowmen, and the Creator of us all. Modesty reflects an attitude of humility, decency and propriety...
Our appearance identifies us with certain manners of behavior and creates expectations in those around us. Our appearance and their expectations may influence our own behavior."

(Dallin H. Oaks, President of BYU 1971 )

The great thing about knowing how to sew is I can create, or alter, garments to fit my standard of modesty.

I hope you find this blog, informative, helpful and fun! Thank for visiting and come back soon!
I hope to be able to share some of my knowledge with you and maybe give you a great idea. I don't post a lot since my baby has been born but I do have great archives. So check them out.

Best wishes in making your next project Sew Fabulous!

Love,
Whitney

ps. I would love to hear from you....thatssewfabulous@gmail.com

A Big Thank You To...

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Background Design Credit