I taught myself to sew on a machine, my mom did not. She had her machine in an unused bedroom of our house which was too quiet for me! I took the old 1960's portable machine my Aunt Irma gave me and sat in front of the TV an sewed for hours. If I have to do something time consuming like formal wear, it's 2 dvds or something long like Gone With the Wind! I can still remember when I was 17 or 18 and I had had surgery so unable to do much Christmas shopping. I had found my grandmother's crutches in a closet and one day when no one was home, slipped away to the Hancock's that was nearby and bought matching quilted and regular fabric to match my Mother's kitchen. I only worked late at night when they were asleep and I had the TV on, hoping to cover some of the noise. The only snag I hit was on the Priscilla tie back curtains was it called for a French seam but the instructions were about as clear as mud! This was like 1979 so no internet, and another foray out of the house was probably not going to happen. (I wasn't supposed to be on my feet to have made that first trip!) I eventually got my Mom into a lengthy discussion regarding a PBS sewing show and managed to steer her to French seams and got those curtains done. Also with the double sided quilted fabric made placemats and coasters, with regular fabric made napkins and a really intricate multi-pocket bun warmer. It's hard to remember after all these years. I would have to look back at the Christmas picture to remember all of it. It was the only time she was ever truly shocked and pleased by a gift from me. She was one of those hard to please people. I was just glad to have caught that reaction in a picture.
In April of this year I had a stroke. Some things in my life are back to normal'ish and some things are not BUT I'm LUCKY. I can still use my sewing machine, can knit and crochet, can bake and still turn out a good family dinner. I'm not as I used to be, I'm not the proficient carer of my home but fortunately my family love me and still come to for advice. Last night I joined all my family in the middle of a general knowledge game and my grandson said "don't cheat..... don't ask Nanny because she knows EVERYTHING":). The biggest problem I have is my speech but it's getting much better....... I can now manage my sewing machine (and yes, I keep mine out at all times) and I LOVE IT. I have been re-looking at all your tutorials which I LOVE...... But , Nanny DOES'NT know everything, so what I want to ask is this, 'what is your pre washing routine? 40degrees? Cold wash? With soap? Without soap? I have washed sometimes but have never been quite sure and I have been asked many times but have had to say I don't know for sure. Thankyou for taking time to read this, I hope you or some of your readers will give me advice.
Generally, I advise pre-washing fabric the same way you expect to wash the sewn item...in the case of most of the items I make from 100% cotton, I use a fast cycle with detergent to help remove the sizing. The water can be on the cold side, to save some energy, but then I dry it completely in a pretty hot dryer. I want as much shrinkage as possible to occur before I cut and sew. Thanks. Hope you are feeling well this evening. We had a dozen people for one of those fun family meals, and I am just about to hit the hay but thought I would respond right away. ..
Zazu's Stitch Art . Oh!!!!!:)..... I'm in shock..... HAPPY SHOCK that you have answered so quickly:-). Thankyou so much, I will be mindful of my pre washing now. It's 11am on a dull, wet day here in Belfast NI and believe or not but I'm sitting at my machine sewing the holes in one of my grandson's school blazer (pre a holiday dry clean). It has been a labour of unconditional love to fish out the 'stuff' that had fallen through the holes into the deep, dark depths of the bottom of the blazer. Thankyou my dear and Happy New Year. I adore my sewing, I love to make things well but I love to do things that I make up from my own design. I have a serger which I love also and my little machine is a 20 year old PHAFF, a work horse for sure. I'd love a new one that 'does everything' but as long as my new glasses and the 👀 behind them, hold up, I'll manage just fine. So Thankyou again and good luck to you and your family for 2020.
I've been sewing for almost 50 years and am a professional costumer, but I learned about products today that I've never known existed! I don't quilt, which might be why, but the tools do have non-quilting applications. One trick I learned from working with leather and having my straight-edgers constantly slip while I was cutting fabric or leather, was to put 80 grit Non Skid Tape on the quilting rulers. I found a roll of it on Amazon for about $12 - totally worth every penny! It's the stuff they put on the edge of stair treads. It has been an amazing help, because I don't have the strength sometimes to stop my straight edge from sliding when I'm cutting. Although, upon your suggestion, I did just order a set of 2 suction handles from Amazon. Those will also help me do a better job of holding on to the slippery ruler! The bias tape makers are going to save me a TON of time when I make custom corsets! I'm excited about getting those! Thank you for this very helpful video!
I have been sewing for years, about 50, and I love your presentation. yes, I know many of these tips but sometimes a reminder refreshes your technical skills and I shared your video with my family, daughters and granddaughters who sew... thanks.
I'm new at this. I'm learning how to sew and I'm gathering good tips to start. I haven't even touched a sewing machine yet😊 but I'm on my way. Thanks for the video and for passing on your years of experience and knowledge.
I like this low-key production videos. No shade to videos that have a lot of editing and higher production value but they don't have the same anyone-can-do-it feel anymore
i agree with you but space isn't all ways a thing we have . but just recently i talked my husband into letting me have the spear room but even so it is still quite small and no floor space should i wish to lay anything out flat. i am always looking online for storage ideas for small spaces. one day i will get a sewing room that i will be proud of as i am still a leaner i know space and organisation is a must if you want to spend a lot of time in the room.
I just started sewing/quilting this past January, despite my mom's best efforts at catching my interest 40-ahem years ago. I started 2 months too late to inherit A LOT of notions and fabrics - but I am lucky to have received so many of these notions from her and advice on my own purchases! Next up for me is a sewing table and a Rowena iron like moms'!
When using a seam ripper, once you get an opening big enough to insert the seam ripper, turn it upside down so that the red ball tip is against the fabric and you will not accidentally cut your fabric. That is the purpose of the red ball on a seam ripper.
Donna Nelson - Hi, Good on you for your important comment! Not many people know how to use a seam ripper correctly. These days everyone seems to use the point for the whole operation, ignoring the purpose of the red ball!
Just started watching your videos - love your way of teaching and producing the videos. Of the 12 sewing tips, through the years, I have come to 11 of them myself, one way or another. The only one I haven't been doing is the suction handle; now I may try that. Have also come to most of your other tips on my own too. Another tip: I have a "Big Board" on my ironing board - that improved a great deal for me at the ironing station. My first board lasted 15 years and then the plywood started to buckle where I ironed the most; I did re-cover it a couple of times. A friend made me my second board. Ok, another tip - I like the iron cord to come from above; I use some kind of hook device on the wall above the board to drape the cord on. I do a lot of big stuff, so the cord is out of the way. Having a great time watching! And learning. Thanks!
So pleased to learn about the suction handle. A few years ago I sliced up the side of my finger with a rotary cutter which resulted in a hospital visit. Been nervous of using the blade ever since. A suction handle is very good news. xx
Ouch! Please be careful! The handle can help, but nothing keeps you safe like taking your time and paying attention to never place your hand in the path of the cutting edge. I'm so sorry you got hurt. Thank you for watching and commenting!
Beth your tips are excellent! I've sewn as a hobby for quite a few years and there are a few that I had never used before...the bodkin and I've had the specialty threads, but never used them. I smiled over the lighted power strip...I too have always used that for my iron. And my next purchase for my sewing room will be the suction handle. Thanks once again for sharing your extensive knowledge with us!
+Linda CeeTee You are so kind! I posted a video yesterday that shows how to use the fusible thread to bind a quilt with only 4 pins: th-cam.com/video/GujI4OimyC4/w-d-xo.html (It follows up the free-motion video that shows how I use the washaway thread to baste wall hangings.) If you jump to the last time stamp on the first video, you can see how to weigh in on what project we tackle next. Thanks for your support!
Thankyou for your comment Beth...just finished watching that video. Am looking forward to seeing your next project and have still more of your videos to watch. Please take time to enjoy your weekend!
when looking for a suction handle do not look in a quilt supply store but go to your local hardware store, bathroom aids for the infirm or elderly, found that they are much cheaper and do the same job.
So many great tips, but the one about using a power strip with a light for the iron is brilliant! I have the same iron by the way, and love it so much.
Harbor Freight also has magnet pin tray. $2.99. And it’s a nice saucer shape.. Great deal. Use one for my long quilting pins and the other for my garment pins.
Thanks for the tips, I have one for you. Don't be afraid of changing he rotary cutter blade because of their expense. I buy mine at Harbor Freight, called Carpet Cutter blades (item#97642) standard 45mm size. Best of all they cost 2 for $2.00. A BUCK A BLADE !!!!
Bruce Calendrillo Talk about timing. I'm going there today to buy the suction cup thing, much cheaper than sewing store. hope they have the those blades
Bruce Calendrillo Hey Bruce! Does Harbor Freight mail their items out to people in the rest of the country? I'm in Oklahoma. I surely hope so cuz the blade thing you mentioned is an AWESOME TIP!! Thanks for that!! 💕👍💃🏼
I have a studio to sew and paint in, but right now it's cold and my studio space is huge without heat, for now its in the kitchen area that adjoins the family room to be around family and watch tv with them. Love your DIY tips thanks for sharing. Really love the clothespin sewing tips :) Merry Christmas
Sharpen blunt & dull seam rippers with fine emery cloth but be careful not to rub away the little plastic ball, although even this can be replaced with a small dot of 2-part epoxy resin.
Thanks for the information. I am fairly new to sewing and want to try quilting soon. I have a better understanding of the different feet for the sewing machine thanks to you. I have only ever used my all purpose foot and my zipper foot. I'll be on the lookout for the suction handle too.
I have 4 embroidery machines, a slant needle Singer that is nearly 40 years old, 2 sergers and a coverstitch machine. With the exception of the Singer, all are Brothers. I have a FORTUNE in feet for all of them. The right foot for the job is crucial. Never let anyone tell you different. I'm a sucker for a new foot.
I opened Google today and there you were! Thanks so much I'm so interested in doing some fabric art I have no clue what I'm doing! "NO CLUE" I am starting a sewing group but I'm trying to collect the basics and this vellum is very helpful to me I hadn't even thought about irons "Duh" Amazingly enough I have 2 in my closet that are amazing! Gifts from family cause they think I'm a wrinkly person! lol. I'm a cargo pants person!! But this was very helpful I'm on a mission today to acquire each object for "free" or on a budget! But I will invest in the scissors and wheel cutter thingamajiggy! And mat! I'm subscribed. I have a vision in my mind of what I want to make so I just have to learn how to make it a reality! I've been picking up fabric of all kinds for months and I'm going today to a local charity that has tons of fabric donated! My goal is to make a beautiful quilt and sell it to my family and donate the money to local charity! My community helps people a lot! a lot! And I want so much to help them to keep helping those in need! They have helped me beyond anything I could have ever needed! Things are getting rough out here and there are more an more people in need! It's the kids that bother me the most! I hate to imagine a little one going to bed hungry! So I'm going to work hard to acquire these skills and I'm going to help make a difference! Thank you for helping me learn. I want you to know that your a part of this because your my teacher, sometimes we go threw life not knowing the impact we can have on others lives an that's sad because we do impact people far an wide, "Its a "Good Thing" when it "Good"! GOD Bless you an Family.
Thanks so much for your enthusiasm. I wish you all the best on your journey. I have been considering a series for beginners for some time, and I may finally embark on that over the summer. Happy sewing!
your so right about the sewing machine I cover it During the week. kid's, and I have it next to the window .great video trying to learn how to sew .but quilting look's like a lot of fun.thanks for the tips,
I like the idea of suction handles for safety. I need to invest in this. I also heard that going to a local hardware store and going to the bathroom aids for the elderly would be much cheaper and do the same job. I will look at home depot.
Oh my! Your an amazing artist! I just went into your vellums Oh I'm so excited I don't understand why you haven't come up on my TH-cam searches in past months and all of a sudden today your on Google searches? Why wouldn't "The Tube" have you available to me when I looked up art quilting basics? Oh well I found you that's what matters. Maybe it has to do with fate! lol. I'm a true believer in prayer!
I did purchase a gypsy quilter . the telephone looking thing u suggested. on my way to texas from indiana we stopped at missouri star quilt co. in Hamilton missouri. wow I m kinda short and only weigh 120 and I had alot of trouble holding down the material. this tip has cut my cutting time like 1000 percent. thank u. plus I bought some omnigrid invisi-grip. 2 weeks later and put it on the backs of all my ruler. now I can git to work faster. try it it was only 8.49. it keeps ruler from sliding. U can also draw on it . like a piece on top if you r repeating a flower. U can draw the flower or whatever. like if fussy cutting the same repeating pattern piece. thank u
I got a bit fed up watching this type of video because everyone has the same tools & tips. I can't stress enough that this one is different. Not only tools I haven't seen, but ways to use them that hadn't occurred to me, like duh! Thanks! That said, I purchased a surgical seam ripper and I love it. It's easier to get the curved blade into tight spots, and it's extremely sharp {needs a little care & practice}. I had to glue some silicon shelving liner {the poofy plastic stuff with the x's} around the handle because it's a little hard to hold for long periods, but that did the trick. The silicon liner has an infinite number of other sewing uses as it keeps things from sliding around.
I use the Bodkin to turn tubes as well put it loop end in the tube and push the fabric end in the Bodkin's teeth close Bodkin from in side (sometimes it takes two or three tries to close all the way)and just push it up in side the tube and pull out of the other end.
Best sucky handles are available at handymen or women hahaha stores. I bought mine at Bunnings! Quilt store $69, Bunnings $19.95 . They are used for old people to get up or down in the bath or the toilet
Thank you for the tips. The scissors that were your favorite pair I went and looked them up they were hard to find but worth every penny. They are the sharpest ones I have ever owned and can easily cut through six layers of batting at a time with a few layers of fabric I was really impressed. They are not real cheap but you get what you pay for and they will last a life time. I did find the gold latch ones that are spring loaded. again ty so so much for the tips
It’s 2019 and I have a remote control socket - wonderful! At the touch of a button it is switched off from any room in the house when I have the remote with me. I keep the spare remote in the bedroom just to be sure lol
I really like your tips. Good tools are a must. I wanted to ask you about the sewing machine table you have in this video. Would you please tell me what kind it is. I know they can be pricey but having a flatbed style setup is important to me. Thanks!
+Wanda MG My machine is a Bernina 950. It is a semi-industrial model with a motor under the table that comes with it. I use it with the safety guard (a small acrylic box around the needle) removed which I don't recommend. It goes 2000 stitches per minute (twice my other Bernina), and I was afraid of it for the first few months. Unless you are production sewing to sell, I would find a good household machine with a flatbed set-up or after market sewing table. If you are sewing to sell, this is a good machine once you get comfortable with it.
Great video, thanks for the tips, can you share what type of iron you're using? I know its rowenta but which one? Also have you used the Oliso Pro iron, it's a bit pricy but I love how it rises up off material when you stop ironing
Sorry this response took so long. I have a Rowenta Pro Master with auto off. I have bought the same iron 3 out of the last 4 times.I had a bad habit of knocking them off the ironing board when they weren't being used, which was usually fatal. So I am very careful about where it is when we are clunking stuff around the sewing room, like bins of materials, full bolts etc. I like the look of the Oliso Pro, and I had not heard of it before. I also like the idea of a hanging iron, although my production days seem to be waning, and I may never buy another iron for sewing, if this one keeps working so well for me and I never drop it! Thanks for the question.
I still have, and use, my grandmother's old Black and Decker iron from around 1980. It works beautifully, has an 8 foot cord and no auto-shut off (which I detest!)
Love your videos. Your work is Beautiful. Thank you for sharing your craft. I've benefited greatly by your teachings. You've probably shared in the past, the machine you use. Would you mind repeating yourself ☺ Thanks Again , for all the giving of your time to Help strangers.
Thank you for all your kind words! I am planning to do a short video about my machine, but here is some info in the meantime. Please excuse the boilerplate answer; I am asked this often and have run out of ways to reword the answer... The short answer: Semi-industrial Bernina 950, no longer being manufactured, I am told. The long answer: I want to discourage anyone from getting this type of machine unless you are already proficient at free-motion quilting. My machine is an 2000 stitch/minute, all-mechanical, industrial monster intended for commercial production. I was very afraid of it at first, and I took off the needle guard, which is not a good idea for beginners or even intermediates with a machine this fast. Many brands will do the free-motion quilting that is necessary to do raw-edge appliqué at a reasonable pace and price. I do like my Berninas, but other brands are great too. I always say to make sure that what you buy allows you to drop your feed dogs and that needle down is a really helpful feature that I recommend for this work. My machine is too bare bones to have it. All mechanical is a better idea, in my opinion, than something with a motherboard, which you can crash going through many layers like I do. I actually bent my needle bar on my smaller machine production sewing raw-edge applique, which was about a $70 dollar fix. A crashed motherboard would have cost many times that amount. Sorry for the long answer. Good luck! Beth/Zazu
Thank you for your detailed response Zazu. Works for me, as I need things spelled out. I'm all about mechanical rather than computer machines. I agree , repairs are more agreeable to my budget. Thanks for your help. I'll continue watching your channel. I'm better at sewing and creating because of it. 😊
I have two Berninas, both getting a little older now. A Quilter's Editions 153 which has a motherboard, and a semi-industrial 950 that is 100% mechanical and twice as fast and very powerful. I only move to 153 when I have to. It handles delicate sewing better, such as metallic threads. It also has a walking foot.
I have a Janome Dc2013 and I went to the store where I purchased it and asked to buy an edger foot like yours. HE gave me a ditch foot that seems to do the same thing even thought it's designed for quilting.....I am a little confused??? Aren't all edger feet the same for every machine?
I'm no sewing machine expert, and I have never used a Janome, so I don't know much about that brand, except I have heard great things. But I googled "Janome ditch foot" and saw two things. One was a walking foot, which is not what I am talking about as an edger. The other looks very similar to both the Bernina #5 blindstitch foot and the Bernina #10 edgestitch foot, which I have used interchangeably, and which I have relied on heavily to give my work a professional look. These feet have a guide that allows you to stitch very straight in the ditch, as well as one to several needle positions either left or right of the ditch or edge of your piece. Even if you go a little crooked, the metal edge that rides along the work makes your line gently steer off course, often imperceptibly, instead of sharply jumping to the side, which can look sloppy enough to stop the eye. I use one of these feet to topstitch placemats in this video (I hope it starts at timestamp10:51 for you): th-cam.com/video/FWxCHL5_OJU/w-d-xo.htmlm51s I do think that each of the sewing machine manufacturers has dealt with the various sewing issues differently, probably trying to avoid copyright, trademark, and patent infringement, resulting in slightly different feet, and many different and overlapping terminologies. But I do think your new ditch foot will be useful for the type of finishing I am talking about. Hope this is of some help. Thanks for the great question!
i have 2 brother sewing machine but i can't get them to work with a darning foot. What i am I do wrong? I have tried covering the feed-dogs. I don't thing my feed-dogs lower. Because they came with covers. bought 42 different pressure feet. I don't know how to use them. I am beginner sewer.
My best advice is to search the internet and find a Brother dealer for help. Sorry I have no experience with your machines. I would try to get manuals for ypur models - some times they are on the web. A beginner sewing class would be ideal. It will take at leaat a few good basic projects before you can reasonably approach free-motioning and beyond. I wish you all the best!
They are at many local fabric stores, most chain stores, and on the web. You may be able to get the best deal buying a set, but if only a size or two is needed, I'd just get one or two. I always try to get these types of things on sale or with a coupon! Thanks!
is it possible you could show us a link where we could purchase the edger foot. i have looked on a few sights and can not see one. or dose it have anuther name. any help would be appreciated. thank you. x
OMG yes it did. i had no idea i would be able to do this with it. Yayyy one happy bunny here. i am working my way through your 75 videos. i will not coment to every one of them or your phone will be pinging all night long. lol lol Thank you. x
Sorry I missed this. Do you order from Amazon? Look for this type of product: www.amazon.com/Madeira-Thread-20779660-Wash-220yd/dp/B004KYWU6E/ref=pd_cp_201_4?pd_rd_w=TYBSe&pf_rd_p=ef4dc990-a9ca-4945-ae0b-f8d549198ed6&pf_rd_r=VWPR9XNQ4DKVHFDERFTN&pd_rd_r=69770c47-5fa6-11e9-b2ef-bb2ae37525d6&pd_rd_wg=0zKDV&pd_rd_i=B004KYWU6E&psc=1&refRID=VWPR9XNQ4DKVHFDERFTN
What happened to the sound at the end of talking about irons all the way to the end??? It was a good video, but I needed the sound as I didn't recognize the feet or what you were talking about with the pot holders.
Zazu's Stitch Art yeah I turn my sound all the way up and then I even tried watching it on my phone and I couldn't hear it so I tried my phone in my tablet
I only wish you would've put the brand names of each item like the ruler grip, iron, & scissors. Newer sew it's such as myself aren't as up on all these as you and your viewers are. Ty tho!
I have been very happy with my favorite Rowenta iron, Gingher scissors, and Gypsy Quilter Gripper. Let me know if anything else if of interest. My machines are both Berninas. Pricey but very reliable, yielding beautiful results!
I never have. I have gotten a new one. Some have done it with steel wool or a bead reaming file. I wonder if an emery board would work? Thanks for the question.
And iso agree - have the machine OUT!!! That way not only will you get creative and productive more often without having to go through the off-putting set-up ritual.... - IT also makes repairing so easy. You want to wear something and discover the seam's started to open up, sit down, choose the right thread and within 4 minutes you're dressed.
I taught myself to sew on a machine, my mom did not. She had her machine in an unused bedroom of our house which was too quiet for me! I took the old 1960's portable machine my Aunt Irma gave me and sat in front of the TV an sewed for hours. If I have to do something time consuming like formal wear, it's 2 dvds or something long like Gone With the Wind! I can still remember when I was 17 or 18 and I had had surgery so unable to do much Christmas shopping. I had found my grandmother's crutches in a closet and one day when no one was home, slipped away to the Hancock's that was nearby and bought matching quilted and regular fabric to match my Mother's kitchen. I only worked late at night when they were asleep and I had the TV on, hoping to cover some of the noise. The only snag I hit was on the Priscilla tie back curtains was it called for a French seam but the instructions were about as clear as mud! This was like 1979 so no internet, and another foray out of the house was probably not going to happen. (I wasn't supposed to be on my feet to have made that first trip!) I eventually got my Mom into a lengthy discussion regarding a PBS sewing show and managed to steer her to French seams and got those curtains done. Also with the double sided quilted fabric made placemats and coasters, with regular fabric made napkins and a really intricate multi-pocket bun warmer. It's hard to remember after all these years. I would have to look back at the Christmas picture to remember all of it. It was the only time she was ever truly shocked and pleased by a gift from me. She was one of those hard to please people. I was just glad to have caught that reaction in a picture.
Love your advice. Great stuff. I've been sewing by hand for about 50 years.😊
In April of this year I had a stroke. Some things in my life are back to normal'ish and some things are not BUT I'm LUCKY. I can still use my sewing machine, can knit and crochet, can bake and still turn out a good family dinner. I'm not as I used to be, I'm not the proficient carer of my home but fortunately my family love me and still come to for advice. Last night I joined all my family in the middle of a general knowledge game and my grandson said "don't cheat..... don't ask Nanny because she knows EVERYTHING":). The biggest problem I have is my speech but it's getting much better....... I can now manage my sewing machine (and yes, I keep mine out at all times) and I LOVE IT. I have been re-looking at all your tutorials which I LOVE...... But , Nanny DOES'NT know everything, so what I want to ask is this, 'what is your pre washing routine? 40degrees? Cold wash? With soap? Without soap? I have washed sometimes but have never been quite sure and I have been asked many times but have had to say I don't know for sure. Thankyou for taking time to read this, I hope you or some of your readers will give me advice.
Generally, I advise pre-washing fabric the same way you expect to wash the sewn item...in the case of most of the items I make from 100% cotton, I use a fast cycle with detergent to help remove the sizing. The water can be on the cold side, to save some energy, but then I dry it completely in a pretty hot dryer. I want as much shrinkage as possible to occur before I cut and sew. Thanks. Hope you are feeling well this evening. We had a dozen people for one of those fun family meals, and I am just about to hit the hay but thought I would respond right away. ..
Zazu's Stitch Art . Oh!!!!!:)..... I'm in shock..... HAPPY SHOCK that you have answered so quickly:-). Thankyou so much, I will be mindful of my pre washing now. It's 11am on a dull, wet day here in Belfast NI and believe or not but I'm sitting at my machine sewing the holes in one of my grandson's school blazer (pre a holiday dry clean). It has been a labour of unconditional love to fish out the 'stuff' that had fallen through the holes into the deep, dark depths of the bottom of the blazer. Thankyou my dear and Happy New Year. I adore my sewing, I love to make things well but I love to do things that I make up from my own design. I have a serger which I love also and my little machine is a 20 year old PHAFF, a work horse for sure. I'd love a new one that 'does everything' but as long as my new glasses and the 👀 behind them, hold up, I'll manage just fine. So Thankyou again and good luck to you and your family for 2020.
I've been sewing for almost 50 years and am a professional costumer, but I learned about products today that I've never known existed! I don't quilt, which might be why, but the tools do have non-quilting applications. One trick I learned from working with leather and having my straight-edgers constantly slip while I was cutting fabric or leather, was to put 80 grit Non Skid Tape on the quilting rulers. I found a roll of it on Amazon for about $12 - totally worth every penny! It's the stuff they put on the edge of stair treads. It has been an amazing help, because I don't have the strength sometimes to stop my straight edge from sliding when I'm cutting. Although, upon your suggestion, I did just order a set of 2 suction handles from Amazon. Those will also help me do a better job of holding on to the slippery ruler! The bias tape makers are going to save me a TON of time when I make custom corsets! I'm excited about getting those! Thank you for this very helpful video!
Nice tip! Thanks for watching and commenting! Thrilled that it was not all "old hat" for you!
I bought my suction handles in Bed and Bath. They work great and a lot less expensive.
Nice!
I have been sewing for years, about 50, and I love your presentation. yes, I know many of these tips but sometimes a reminder refreshes your technical skills and I shared your video with my family, daughters and granddaughters who sew... thanks.
Thanks! Ihope you will check out a few of my other tip videos!
The suction handle idea is genius!
Yes, I am so glad they exist! Thanks for watching and commenting!
I'm new at this. I'm learning how to sew and I'm gathering good tips to start. I haven't even touched a sewing machine yet😊 but I'm on my way. Thanks for the video and for passing on your years of experience and knowledge.
I like this low-key production videos. No shade to videos that have a lot of editing and higher production value but they don't have the same anyone-can-do-it feel anymore
Thanks!
Another good tip is to make your sewing space comfortable. A nice comfy chair, plenty of room, organized, etc
i agree with you but space isn't all ways a thing we have . but just recently i talked my husband into letting me have the spear room but even so it is still quite small and no floor space should i wish to lay anything out flat. i am always looking online for storage ideas for small spaces. one day i will get a sewing room that i will be proud of as i am still a leaner i know space and organisation is a must if you want to spend a lot of time in the room.
I just started sewing/quilting this past January, despite my mom's best efforts at catching my interest 40-ahem years ago.
I started 2 months too late to inherit A LOT of notions and fabrics - but I am lucky to have received so many of these notions from her and advice on my own purchases! Next up for me is a sewing table and a Rowena iron like moms'!
Beth it's like learning with a friend love your tutorials.
How nice! Thank you!
When using a seam ripper, once you get an opening big enough to insert the seam ripper, turn it upside down so that the red ball tip is against the fabric and you will not accidentally cut your fabric. That is the purpose of the red ball on a seam ripper.
Yes, they are handy dandy little tools. Nothing else will do when you need one!
Donna Nelson - Hi, Good on you for your important comment! Not many people know how to use a seam ripper correctly. These days everyone seems to use the point for the whole operation, ignoring the purpose of the red ball!
Donna Nelson Just don't get the mental picture. Really frustrating. I have just always been careful.
Yes,I've done that for years!!
Thank you!
Just started watching your videos - love your way of teaching and producing the videos.
Of the 12 sewing tips, through the years, I have come to 11 of them myself, one way or another.
The only one I haven't been doing is the suction handle; now I may try that.
Have also come to most of your other tips on my own too.
Another tip: I have a "Big Board" on my ironing board - that improved a great deal for me at the ironing station. My first board lasted 15 years and then the plywood started to buckle where I ironed the most; I did re-cover it a couple of times. A friend made me my second board.
Ok, another tip - I like the iron cord to come from above; I use some kind of hook device on the wall above the board to drape the cord on. I do a lot of big stuff, so the cord is out of the way.
Having a great time watching! And learning. Thanks!
Great tips, Katherine! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Suction Handle ---> GENIUS !!
This is a great video. it's nice to see how much easier and quicker sewing can be with a few great tips like you shared here!
+Marlys Sellmeyer So nice and awesome! Thx!
So pleased to learn about the suction handle. A few years ago I sliced up the side of my finger with a rotary cutter which resulted in a hospital visit. Been nervous of using the blade ever since. A suction handle is very good news. xx
Ouch! Please be careful! The handle can help, but nothing keeps you safe like taking your time and paying attention to never place your hand in the path of the cutting edge. I'm so sorry you got hurt. Thank you for watching and commenting!
There is a glove you can buy to put on your non-cutting hand to protect it. Search online for "Fons and Porter Klutz Glove"
Beth your tips are excellent! I've sewn as a hobby for quite a few years and there are a few that I had never used before...the bodkin and I've had the specialty threads, but never used them. I smiled over the lighted power strip...I too have always used that for my iron. And my next purchase for my sewing room will be the suction handle. Thanks once again for sharing your extensive knowledge with us!
+Linda CeeTee You are so kind! I posted a video yesterday that shows how to use the fusible thread to bind a quilt with only 4 pins: th-cam.com/video/GujI4OimyC4/w-d-xo.html (It follows up the free-motion video that shows how I use the washaway thread to baste wall hangings.) If you jump to the last time stamp on the first video, you can see how to weigh in on what project we tackle next. Thanks for your support!
Thankyou for your comment Beth...just finished watching that video. Am looking forward to seeing your next project and have still more of your videos to watch. Please take time to enjoy your weekend!
+Linda CeeTee :)
when looking for a suction handle do not look in a quilt supply store but go to your local hardware store, bathroom aids for the infirm or elderly, found that they are much cheaper and do the same job.
Great idea!
Thank you, that answered my question before I asked it☺
Harbor freight sells them for under $10. I also use 50 cent pavers from Home Depot to hold my ruler down
dcwatashi what are pavers?
Pavers are bricks.
Thanks, learned a couple of new things from your video. Thanks.
So many great tips, but the one about using a power strip with a light for the iron is brilliant! I have the same iron by the way, and love it so much.
Harbor Freight also has magnet pin tray. $2.99. And it’s a nice saucer shape.. Great deal. Use one for my long quilting pins and the other for my garment pins.
Great tip!
Thanks for the tips, I have one for you. Don't be afraid of changing he rotary cutter blade because of their expense. I buy mine at Harbor Freight, called Carpet Cutter blades (item#97642) standard 45mm size. Best of all they cost 2 for $2.00. A BUCK A BLADE !!!!
Now this is exciting! Thanks!
hey that IS a good tip, thanks, item number & all!
Bruce Calendrillo Talk about timing. I'm going there today to buy the suction cup thing, much cheaper than sewing store. hope they have the those blades
Bruce Calendrillo Hey Bruce! Does Harbor Freight mail their items out to people in the rest of the country? I'm in Oklahoma. I surely hope so cuz the blade thing you mentioned is an AWESOME TIP!! Thanks for that!! 💕👍💃🏼
What a great tip, thank you especially when I looked up harbor freight and discovered there is one about 5 miles from my home. 😊
wow. so much common sense. I feel like a dork. thank u
Diana Wright Thanks for the great compliment! I don't think of myself as having a lot of common sense.
lovely video - extremely useful ideas, to the point, presented professionally and with passion. THANKS *****
Thank YOU!
Thank you so much for making this video! I round it incredibly informative.
Thanks!
I have a studio to sew and paint in, but right now it's cold and my studio space is huge without heat, for now its in the kitchen area that adjoins the family room to be around family and watch tv with them. Love your DIY tips thanks for sharing. Really love the clothespin sewing tips :) Merry Christmas
This is so nice. Thank you for telling me.
Sharpen blunt & dull seam rippers with fine emery cloth but be careful not to rub away the little plastic ball, although even this can be replaced with a small dot of 2-part epoxy resin.
Nice tip!
Would a fingernail file work also..then replace the ball with a dab from hot glue?
Thanks for the information. I am fairly new to sewing and want to try quilting soon. I have a better understanding of the different feet for the sewing machine thanks to you. I have only ever used my all purpose foot and my zipper foot. I'll be on the lookout for the suction handle too.
Good luck and thanks! I hope you have tons of fun, and I hope you create lots of useful and attractive items on your adventure!
I have 4 embroidery machines, a slant needle Singer that is nearly 40 years old, 2 sergers and a coverstitch machine. With the exception of the Singer, all are Brothers. I have a FORTUNE in feet for all of them. The right foot for the job is crucial. Never let anyone tell you different. I'm a sucker for a new foot.
I opened Google today and there you were! Thanks so much I'm so interested in doing some fabric art I have no clue what I'm doing! "NO CLUE" I am starting a sewing group but I'm trying to collect the basics and this vellum is very helpful to me I hadn't even thought about irons "Duh" Amazingly enough I have 2 in my closet that are amazing! Gifts from family cause they think I'm a wrinkly person! lol. I'm a cargo pants person!! But this was very helpful I'm on a mission today to acquire each object for "free" or on a budget! But I will invest in the scissors and wheel cutter thingamajiggy! And mat! I'm subscribed. I have a vision in my mind of what I want to make so I just have to learn how to make it a reality! I've been picking up fabric of all kinds for months and I'm going today to a local charity that has tons of fabric donated! My goal is to make a beautiful quilt and sell it to my family and donate the money to local charity! My community helps people a lot! a lot! And I want so much to help them to keep helping those in need! They have helped me beyond anything I could have ever needed! Things are getting rough out here and there are more an more people in need! It's the kids that bother me the most! I hate to imagine a little one going to bed hungry! So I'm going to work hard to acquire these skills and I'm going to help make a difference! Thank you for helping me learn. I want you to know that your a part of this because your my teacher, sometimes we go threw life not knowing the impact we can have on others lives an that's sad because we do impact people far an wide, "Its a "Good Thing" when it "Good"! GOD Bless you an Family.
Thanks so much for your enthusiasm. I wish you all the best on your journey. I have been considering a series for beginners for some time, and I may finally embark on that over the summer. Happy sewing!
Thanks for the sewing tips.. love the chocolate comment and the giggles at the end.
Thank you so much for the comment!
Heres hoping you have safe and happy holidays however you choose to spend them.
And the same to you!
your so right about the sewing machine I cover it During the week. kid's, and I have it next to the window .great video trying to learn how to sew .but quilting look's like a lot of fun.thanks for the tips,
Thanks!
I like the idea of suction handles for safety. I need to invest in this. I also heard that going to a local hardware store and going to the bathroom aids for the elderly would be much cheaper and do the same job. I will look at home depot.
Let me know how that works for you, please. Thanks!
I specially like the idea with the light power strip. Till now I switch the iron on and off all the time. Your hint makes it much easier. Thanks
I laughed when you said I keep my iron until I drop it! That’s exactly what happened to me and I have the sand iron. Lol thanks
Thanks for your suggestions. I love your videos.
I ran out & bought the suction handle! Thank you! I didn't know it existed!
Excellent hacks, thanks for the informative video. You are great at your expertise.
Thank you so much!
Netflix and chocolate ..... love it!
Thanks!
Oh my! Your an amazing artist! I just went into your vellums Oh I'm so excited I don't understand why you haven't come up on my TH-cam searches in past months and all of a sudden today your on Google searches? Why wouldn't "The Tube" have you available to me when I looked up art quilting basics? Oh well I found you that's what matters. Maybe it has to do with fate! lol. I'm a true believer in prayer!
I haven't really flagged my vids as "basic." Maybe that is why. Glad you are watching now. Thanks!
Good tips! I do almost all these things. I don't have a bodkin, and I never heard of the wash-away thread - but the rest was spot on. Great Minds :)
Great! Thanks for watching and commenting!
I did purchase a gypsy quilter . the telephone looking thing u suggested. on my way to texas from indiana we stopped at missouri star quilt co. in Hamilton missouri. wow I m kinda short and only weigh 120 and I had alot of trouble holding down the material. this tip has cut my cutting time like 1000 percent. thank u. plus I bought some omnigrid invisi-grip. 2 weeks later and put it on the backs of all my ruler. now I can git to work faster. try it it was only 8.49. it keeps ruler from sliding. U can also draw on it . like a piece on top if you r repeating a flower. U can draw the flower or whatever. like if fussy cutting the same repeating pattern piece. thank u
+Diana Wright Never tried the old needle trick but I have heard of it. Thx.
I got a bit fed up watching this type of video because everyone has the same tools & tips. I can't stress enough that this one is different. Not only tools I haven't seen, but ways to use them that hadn't occurred to me, like duh! Thanks!
That said, I purchased a surgical seam ripper and I love it. It's easier to get the curved blade into tight spots, and it's extremely sharp {needs a little care & practice}. I had to glue some silicon shelving liner {the poofy plastic stuff with the x's} around the handle because it's a little hard to hold for long periods, but that did the trick. The silicon liner has an infinite number of other sewing uses as it keeps things from sliding around.
I use the Bodkin to turn tubes as well put it loop end in the tube and push the fabric end in the Bodkin's teeth close Bodkin from in side (sometimes it takes two or three tries to close all the way)and just push it up in side the tube and pull out of the other end.
Nice!
Great & original tips, thank you!
Thank you!
Best sucky handles are available at handymen or women hahaha stores. I bought mine at Bunnings! Quilt store $69, Bunnings $19.95 . They are used for old people to get up or down in the bath or the toilet
Great idea, but pricier than the quilting ones! Thx!
GREAT VIDEO I especially love the idea about the light extention cord because I am ALWAYS leaving the iron on 😤
Yes, I have scared myself with mine!
This is good stuff. Thanks for sharing. I’m just starting; gonna do some easy tear repairs. Thence on to more advanced levels.
Happy Sewing!
"I find I have my iron until I drop them". Yes ma'am...it's a truth! :-)
Great information. Thank you Sew much.
Thank you for the tips. The scissors that were your favorite pair I went and looked them up they were hard to find but worth every penny. They are the sharpest ones I have ever owned and can easily cut through six layers of batting at a time with a few layers of fabric I was really impressed. They are not real cheap but you get what you pay for and they will last a life time. I did find the gold latch ones that are spring loaded. again ty so so much for the tips
Yes, they are great scissors and a little pricey too. Thanks for the feedback and happy sewing!
mom very nice.....soin
Very good tips, thank you!
Thanks!
It’s 2019 and I have a remote control socket - wonderful! At the touch of a button it is switched off from any room in the house when I have the remote with me. I keep the spare remote in the bedroom just to be sure lol
I really like your tips. Good tools are a must. I wanted to ask you about the sewing machine table you have in this video. Would you please tell me what kind it is. I know they can be pricey but having a flatbed style setup is important to me. Thanks!
+Wanda MG My machine is a Bernina 950. It is a semi-industrial model with a motor under the table that comes with it. I use it with the safety guard (a small acrylic box around the needle) removed which I don't recommend. It goes 2000 stitches per minute (twice my other Bernina), and I was afraid of it for the first few months. Unless you are production sewing to sell, I would find a good household machine with a flatbed set-up or after market sewing table. If you are sewing to sell, this is a good machine once you get comfortable with it.
+Zazu's Stitch Art
Thank you so much for your reply.
Great video, thanks for the tips, can you share what type of iron you're using? I know its rowenta but which one? Also have you used the Oliso Pro iron, it's a bit pricy but I love how it rises up off material when you stop ironing
Sorry this response took so long. I have a Rowenta Pro Master with auto off. I have bought the same iron 3 out of the last 4 times.I had a bad habit of knocking them off the ironing board when they weren't being used, which was usually fatal. So I am very careful about where it is when we are clunking stuff around the sewing room, like bins of materials, full bolts etc. I like the look of the Oliso Pro, and I had not heard of it before. I also like the idea of a hanging iron, although my production days seem to be waning, and I may never buy another iron for sewing, if this one keeps working so well for me and I never drop it! Thanks for the question.
What is a hanging iron?
Loved your video loved the last idea about he chocolate even though I am dieabetic lol lol lol little treat every now and then
Thanks! Best wishes!
Rowena is THE BEST iron on the market. The only irons I have ever owned.
Agreed!
They're very expensive here in Canada but I recently bit the bullet and bought the same model as in the video. Best iron ever!
YES!
It is the best because it is 1600 watts, I too have owned one for 28 years.
I still have, and use, my grandmother's old Black and Decker iron from around 1980. It works beautifully, has an 8 foot cord and no auto-shut off (which I detest!)
Thank you so much for the hints
Thanks!
Good tips. Nicely done.
Love your videos. Your work is Beautiful. Thank you for sharing your craft. I've benefited greatly by your teachings. You've probably shared in the past, the machine you use. Would you mind repeating yourself ☺
Thanks Again , for all the giving of your time to Help strangers.
Thank you for all your kind words! I am planning to do a short video about my machine, but here is some info in the meantime. Please excuse the boilerplate answer; I am asked this often and have run out of ways to reword the answer...
The short answer: Semi-industrial Bernina 950, no longer being manufactured, I am told.
The long answer: I want to discourage anyone from getting this type of machine unless you are already proficient at free-motion quilting. My machine is an 2000 stitch/minute, all-mechanical, industrial monster intended for commercial production. I was very afraid of it at first, and I took off the needle guard, which is not a good idea for beginners or even intermediates with a machine this fast. Many brands will do the free-motion quilting that is necessary to do raw-edge appliqué at a reasonable pace and price. I do like my Berninas, but other brands are great too. I always say to make sure that what you buy allows you to drop your feed dogs and that needle down is a really helpful feature that I recommend for this work. My machine is too bare bones to have it. All mechanical is a better idea, in my opinion, than something with a motherboard, which you can crash going through many layers like I do. I actually bent my needle bar on my smaller machine production sewing raw-edge applique, which was about a $70 dollar fix. A crashed motherboard would have cost many times that amount. Sorry for the long answer. Good luck! Beth/Zazu
Thank you for your detailed response Zazu. Works for me, as I need things spelled out. I'm all about mechanical rather than computer machines. I agree , repairs are more agreeable to my budget.
Thanks for your help. I'll continue watching your channel. I'm better at sewing and creating because of it. 😊
Thanks for your tips
Thank YOU for watching and commenting!
Ran over my index finger and now I NEVER cut without that handle. I am going to use many of your other tips.
Ouch! that sounds horrible. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Really good tips. I'm an instant fan and new subscriber! 👏😊
How nice. Thanks!
Nice tips.thank you
Thank you.
Do you have special machines for specific jobs? I think I've seen a couple at least. Thanks!
I have two Berninas, both getting a little older now. A Quilter's Editions 153 which has a motherboard, and a semi-industrial 950 that is 100% mechanical and twice as fast and very powerful. I only move to 153 when I have to. It handles delicate sewing better, such as metallic threads. It also has a walking foot.
I have a Janome Dc2013 and I went to the store where I purchased it and asked to buy an edger foot like yours. HE gave me a ditch foot that seems to do the same thing even thought it's designed for quilting.....I am a little confused??? Aren't all edger feet the same for every machine?
I'm no sewing machine expert, and I have never used a Janome, so I don't know much about that brand, except I have heard great things.
But I googled "Janome ditch foot" and saw two things. One was a walking foot, which is not what I am talking about as an edger. The other looks very similar to both the Bernina #5 blindstitch foot and the Bernina #10 edgestitch foot, which I have used interchangeably, and which I have relied on heavily to give my work a professional look. These feet have a guide that allows you to stitch very straight in the ditch, as well as one to several needle positions either left or right of the ditch or edge of your piece. Even if you go a little crooked, the metal edge that rides along the work makes your line gently steer off course, often imperceptibly, instead of sharply jumping to the side, which can look sloppy enough to stop the eye.
I use one of these feet to topstitch placemats in this video (I hope it starts at timestamp10:51 for you): th-cam.com/video/FWxCHL5_OJU/w-d-xo.htmlm51s
I do think that each of the sewing machine manufacturers has dealt with the various sewing issues differently, probably trying to avoid copyright, trademark, and patent infringement, resulting in slightly different feet, and many different and overlapping terminologies. But I do think your new ditch foot will be useful for the type of finishing I am talking about. Hope this is of some help. Thanks for the great question!
Oh, but if your machine doesn't allow you to move your needle left and right, then I don't think the ditch foot will work for what I am talking about.
Thank you for sharing.
Thank you!
very nice way to exbite ...thanks....
paramjit soin.
Thanks!
thank you for sewing tips
Thank YOU!
Well considered video.❤️❤️
i have 2 brother sewing machine but i can't get them to work with a darning foot. What i am I do wrong? I have tried covering the feed-dogs. I don't thing my feed-dogs lower. Because they came with covers. bought 42 different pressure feet. I don't know how to use them. I am beginner sewer.
My best advice is to search the internet and find a Brother dealer for help. Sorry I have no experience with your machines. I would try to get manuals for ypur models - some times they are on the web. A beginner sewing class would be ideal. It will take at leaat a few good basic projects before you can reasonably approach free-motioning and beyond. I wish you all the best!
oMG Thank you thank you thank you !!! I love this video
Thanks!
What kind of machine is that that you're sewing on? I've seen the same one used in another video and they just seem so smooth!
Bernina 950 semi-industrial, no longer in production, I think.
@@ZazusStitchArt Thank you for replying :)
So helpful. Thank you.
Thanks!
Where can you buy (or how do you make) bias-tape makers?
They are at many local fabric stores, most chain stores, and on the web. You may be able to get the best deal buying a set, but if only a size or two is needed, I'd just get one or two. I always try to get these types of things on sale or with a coupon! Thanks!
Thank you for sharing with us
Thank you for saying this.
"... and chocolate" :D
chopsticks make good turning tools too.
Yes! Although I never use my best ones, because they eventually break!
great video, thanks !
Thank YOU!
is it possible you could show us a link where we could purchase the edger foot. i have looked on a few sights and can not see one. or dose it have anuther name. any help would be appreciated. thank you. x
Actually called a Blind Hem foot, sorry, your Elna 660 may have come with one...
OMG yes it did. i had no idea i would be able to do this with it. Yayyy one happy bunny here. i am working my way through your 75 videos. i will not coment to every one of them or your phone will be pinging all night long. lol lol Thank you. x
In South Africa we don't have wash away thread, please can you send me a link or web addy where I can import
Sorry I missed this. Do you order from Amazon? Look for this type of product: www.amazon.com/Madeira-Thread-20779660-Wash-220yd/dp/B004KYWU6E/ref=pd_cp_201_4?pd_rd_w=TYBSe&pf_rd_p=ef4dc990-a9ca-4945-ae0b-f8d549198ed6&pf_rd_r=VWPR9XNQ4DKVHFDERFTN&pd_rd_r=69770c47-5fa6-11e9-b2ef-bb2ae37525d6&pd_rd_wg=0zKDV&pd_rd_i=B004KYWU6E&psc=1&refRID=VWPR9XNQ4DKVHFDERFTN
I did learn a few new things
I'm glad! Thanks.
I also want to have these all from where
Yes a bodkin! So tired of seeing the "safety" pin method which always ended with poked fingers!
Haha!
Hi, can you tell me what sewing machine you use please? Thanks 💖
Sorry to reply so late: I cover my machine in this vid at length. They don't sell it anymore: th-cam.com/video/zPq9JGH9R3I/w-d-xo.html
Please give me the name of the spring scissor so I can find it onlineDeeDee Schmitt
Gingher Spring Action Scissors - I always look for them on sale at the chains, such as Joann's.
my sewing machine is in my dining room so I can watch TV in the living room while I sew! 😆
I have always listened to tv or music while I sew. It makes a big difference in how time passes. Thanks for watching and commenting!
It sure does!! Listening to podcasts now too helps with the process, although I love sewing. 😄
Yes!
What is the name of your Suction Handle and where might I purchase it
Dee Dee Schmitt
Gypsy quilter gripper - try googling, Amazon etc.
Bed and Bath have very good ones.
What happened to the sound at the end of talking about irons all the way to the end??? It was a good video, but I needed the sound as I didn't recognize the feet or what you were talking about with the pot holders.
Sorry you couldn't hear it. I just checked, and I can hear the voice on my computer. Not sure what happened... Thank you for watching.
Zazu's Stitch Art yeah I turn my sound all the way up and then I even tried watching it on my phone and I couldn't hear it so I tried my phone in my tablet
Yes, I think it was me for some reason. Maybe if I try now. I'll try now
Thank you
The Japanese "dollar" store, Daiso, sells a kit with bodkins in it. If I remember correctly, the price is $1.50.
Great! Almost a dollar!
Nice
Where did you get the suction cup handle?
Search something like "gypsy quilter gripper." Several types should pop up. The chains have them. If you shop there, try to use your coupon
this is such a good tips video very precise and actually had good information in it!
Thanks!
I only wish you would've put the brand names of each item like the ruler grip, iron, & scissors. Newer sew it's such as myself aren't as up on all these as you and your viewers are. Ty tho!
I have been very happy with my favorite Rowenta iron, Gingher scissors, and Gypsy Quilter Gripper. Let me know if anything else if of interest. My machines are both Berninas. Pricey but very reliable, yielding beautiful results!
Zazu's Stitch Art Thank you SO SO MUCH!!! 👍👍👍👍
good
I use distilled water in mine. No build up of minerals of any kind. I have well water so I prefer distilled.
Thank you very much for the bodkin tip! #:●)
Thank YOU!
how do you sharpen an seam ripper???
I never have. I have gotten a new one. Some have done it with steel wool or a bead reaming file. I wonder if an emery board would work? Thanks for the question.
And iso agree - have the machine OUT!!! That way not only will you get creative and productive more often without having to go through the off-putting set-up ritual.... - IT also makes repairing so easy. You want to wear something and discover the seam's started to open up, sit down, choose the right thread and within 4 minutes you're dressed.
I like this idea of mending something to wear it right away. Otherwise it sits and sits... Thanks!