Thanks for this video. Great to hear about the mannequin, I’ve been wanting one for a long time but never had space in my sewing room. I love my snips, just started using them in December. Best tool so far for cutting threads. Have you thought of using Best Press instead of spray starch? Might be better for your iron (should not scorch) for sure better for your lungs (no aerosol)! My local fabric store sells a refillable bottle.)
You're welcome! Mannequins are great to have in a sewing room. Snips are amazing for cutting threads, aren't they? I haven't tried Best Press yet, but it sounds like a great alternative to spray starch. I'll look for it at my local fabric store. Thanks for the tip!
I only use my magnetic clips when sewing bags or upholstery as well. Duckbill scissors are on my wish list. I really just need to buy them. I say that every time I cut both pieces of fabric when I am trying to grade a seam😂
It sounds like we have similar strategies! Magnetic clips are fantastic for bags and upholstery. And I totally understand the struggle with grading seams without duckbill scissors, they can definitely make a difference. Happy sewing! 💜😁
I love the dress you’re wearing! I’ve been finding linen duvet covers and I have great plans for them. I love magnetic seam guides, and my walking foot, especially for knits. I wish all machines came with a built in walking foot. Spray starch really helped me make matching bus tape for a crepe fabric. Great video! I may try that electric cutter since I use heavy fabrics!😮
Great video. I too am a convert to those same pins and spray starch is always to hand. So good for stabilising. I do use loop turners but have same issues with my mannequin. I sometimes use my walking foot but drool over machines that have them inbuilt! Seam gauges- wasted my money there!!! Scissors for seam grading - on my shopping list. Thank you.
Thanks so much for sharing these tools! I use many of the tools you do not use, including the walking foot, loop turner, and magnetic seam gauge, but it is always great to see someone else's take, and it really shows how different we all can be in our sewing preferences. I really liked your take on the point-turner, I don't have one, but I like the various uses you've highlighted, and I agree with your spray starch highlight, I have a can at hand at all times! I have loved finding your channel!
New follower here, I'm excited to try the pattern I just downloaded! Your website and channel inspire happy sewing thoughts. I appreciate the freshness of the designs and high-production-value presentation. You're so right, how nice it would be to have a walking foot built into the machines! I don't want or need 30,000 stitch styles, I want easy access to basic functions that I routinely use. Threading, needle changing, bobbin access & rewinding, straight stitch, zigzag, backstitches, troubleshooting and cleaning the machine.... Not much more than that. As to useful notions, a magnetic pin collector made a huge difference in keeping a cleaner, safer sewing space. If I were staring a sewing kit over I'd highly recommend any and all styles - wristband, dish or wand. I missed the link to the collar point turner. You make a good case for it. I see Clover makes one but yours had a different design. If you have time, would you kindly post the brand name? Google didn't find Sew Me.
Hello!! Thank you for tuning in :-) I love the idea of the magnetic pin cushion, great for cleaning up. I'm so sorry I missed the point turner link. I'll drop it here. Here is one in australia: www.quiltersangel.com.au/products/finger-presser-crease-maker This one is US based: madamsew.com/products/finger-presser And Europe: www.strima.com/dw-fp01-finger-presser-tool-15-cm/item-1033163
I just got those loop turners after years of waiting to get them , hoping they would save my life, and they just ruined my whole day today 😅😅😅😅 it took me about 1 hour to turn around 3 loops.... So, fail for me too! Lol
And oops I forgot to mention, I take it from what I’ve seen on YTUBE that you don’t use pins on stretch knits. So what do you use to hold the pieces together whilst sewing? Those little plastic pegs things? Looking forward to your response, and thanks in advance.
Hi there! Thanks for reaching out and for your keen observation. You're correct; when working with stretch knits, many sewists prefer not to use pins as they can leave visible holes or distort the fabric. Instead, you can use alternatives like clips or fabric weights to hold the pieces together. Clips, often made of plastic or metal, work well as they secure the fabric without causing damage. Another option is to use fabric weights, which are small objects placed on the fabric to keep it in place. Each method has its advantages, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your project. Happy sewing!💜
Christine I bought those scissors because of you and I absolutely love them! 😍 They’re wonderful for narrow hems after you’ve sewn your first line of,stitching and have to trim the seam down to sew another line. It was an absolute dream, and no bulky seams. 😅 Anyway my love, I’m going to be sewing my first ever stretch knit garment this week, (😳😬 so nervous), but I just wanted to ask you 1) when gathering a stretch knit as is required on my pattern, do I use a regular long STRAIGHT stitch that I’d use on a woven please or something else? And 2) what about interfacing, is there a special one for knits, or do I just use ordinary interfacing? Thank you ever so much in advance my darling. I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone so I thought I’d ask the fearless expert. 😊
Hi! First off, I'm thrilled to hear you love the scissors! 😍 For gathering stretch knits, opt for a long, narrow zigzag stitch to maintain elasticity. This will help prevent the stitches from popping when the fabric stretches. As for interfacing, use a knit or stretch interfacing specifically designed for knits to preserve flexibility. You're on the right track by stepping out of your comfort zone-go for it, and happy sewing! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask 💜
@@SewingandtheCity Oh Christine I love you! 🤗 Thank you so much for your helpful tips, and yes I will most definitely ask if I need more help. After about a 15 year absence I've started sewing again especially to get me through these depressing winter months, and all I can say is I'm in love...... 🥰🥰🥰
I love my walking foot. It makes pattern matching, sewing heavy fabrics and knits so much easier. I also have one of those loop turners and have had the same problems as you. I have been trying the thread method but am still finding that ineffective; the thread/cord always breaks and/or it gets too bulky at the starting end. I have a dress form too, and even with the same measurements, the distribution is totally wrong for my body. It’s ok for learning draping and pattern fitting methods, but not projects specific to me.
I'm glad you love your walking foot! 💜 For turning loops, keep experimenting with different methods to find what works best for you. Each fabric might require a slightly different approach. And it's true, dress forms can be helpful for some aspects of sewing, but custom projects often require adjustments for individual body shapes. Keep up the great work and happy sewing! 😁
I have wondered that about the magnetic seam gauge. And I never would have thought about those fit issues with a mannequin. I also see she doesn't have a way to lengthen the torso? Maybe she does. But, good to know! Thanks for sharing!
I use the loop turned to pull through elastics in casings. Wish I could find left hand duckbill scissors. Right hand scissors just do not function in the left hand and it would be a nightmare game of roulette if I tried them in my right😅. Please, tell me if anyone knows a supplier! Also, I have straight bladed rechargeable scissors and they work well, even in smaller places. Just need some practice before cutting the good stuff 😂.
You can find left-hand duckbill scissors online through various sewing suppliers. As for the rechargeable scissors, practice will help you become more comfortable using them, so keep at it and happy sewing!💜💜
Hi Christine. One of my favourite itemz is Demineralized water for my iron ... a fabric saver
Thank you so much great tip!! 💜💜
Thanks for this video. Great to hear about the mannequin, I’ve been wanting one for a long time but never had space in my sewing room. I love my snips, just started using them in December. Best tool so far for cutting threads. Have you thought of using Best Press instead of spray starch? Might be better for your iron (should not scorch) for sure better for your lungs (no aerosol)! My local fabric store sells a refillable bottle.)
You're welcome! Mannequins are great to have in a sewing room. Snips are amazing for cutting threads, aren't they?
I haven't tried Best Press yet, but it sounds like a great alternative to spray starch. I'll look for it at my local fabric store. Thanks for the tip!
Great tips. Thank you so much for sharing. ❤️❤️❤️
You're very welcome! I'm glad you found the tips helpful. Happy sewing! 💜
I only use my magnetic clips when sewing bags or upholstery as well. Duckbill scissors are on my wish list. I really just need to buy them. I say that every time I cut both pieces of fabric when I am trying to grade a seam😂
It sounds like we have similar strategies! Magnetic clips are fantastic for bags and upholstery. And I totally understand the struggle with grading seams without duckbill scissors, they can definitely make a difference. Happy sewing! 💜😁
I love the dress you’re wearing! I’ve been finding linen duvet covers and I have great plans for them. I love magnetic seam guides, and my walking foot, especially for knits. I wish all machines came with a built in walking foot. Spray starch really helped me make matching bus tape for a crepe fabric. Great video! I may try that electric cutter since I use heavy fabrics!😮
I got some of those pins after seeing you use them during the t-shirt class I took from you at the sewing expo, and I love them!
Omygosh that's so fun! I'm glad you like them, too!!
Great video. I too am a convert to those same pins and spray starch is always to hand. So good for stabilising. I do use loop turners but have same issues with my mannequin. I sometimes use my walking foot but drool over machines that have them inbuilt! Seam gauges- wasted my money there!!! Scissors for seam grading - on my shopping list. Thank you.
You're welcome! 😊 Glad you enjoyed the video and found the tips helpful. Happy sewing and happy shopping for those new scissors✂️💜
Thanks so much for sharing these tools! I use many of the tools you do not use, including the walking foot, loop turner, and magnetic seam gauge, but it is always great to see someone else's take, and it really shows how different we all can be in our sewing preferences. I really liked your take on the point-turner, I don't have one, but I like the various uses you've highlighted, and I agree with your spray starch highlight, I have a can at hand at all times! I have loved finding your channel!
Thank you so much for tuning in and for your thoughtful comment! It's true how we all have our individual sewing "grooves" so to speak :-)
New follower here, I'm excited to try the pattern I just downloaded! Your website and channel inspire happy sewing thoughts. I appreciate the freshness of the designs and high-production-value presentation.
You're so right, how nice it would be to have a walking foot built into the machines! I don't want or need 30,000 stitch styles, I want easy access to basic functions that I routinely use. Threading, needle changing, bobbin access & rewinding, straight stitch, zigzag, backstitches, troubleshooting and cleaning the machine.... Not much more than that.
As to useful notions, a magnetic pin collector made a huge difference in keeping a cleaner, safer sewing space. If I were staring a sewing kit over I'd highly recommend any and all styles - wristband, dish or wand.
I missed the link to the collar point turner. You make a good case for it. I see Clover makes one but yours had a different design. If you have time, would you kindly post the brand name? Google didn't find Sew Me.
Hello!! Thank you for tuning in :-) I love the idea of the magnetic pin cushion, great for cleaning up. I'm so sorry I missed the point turner link. I'll drop it here.
Here is one in australia: www.quiltersangel.com.au/products/finger-presser-crease-maker
This one is US based: madamsew.com/products/finger-presser
And Europe: www.strima.com/dw-fp01-finger-presser-tool-15-cm/item-1033163
I just got those loop turners after years of waiting to get them , hoping they would save my life, and they just ruined my whole day today 😅😅😅😅 it took me about 1 hour to turn around 3 loops.... So, fail for me too! Lol
I understand what you went through!😂💜
I’m with you. Never use the magnetic seam guide and those loop turners for the exact same reasons.
Glad it's not just me!
And oops I forgot to mention, I take it from what I’ve seen on YTUBE that you don’t use pins on stretch knits. So what do you use to hold the pieces together whilst sewing? Those little plastic pegs things? Looking forward to your response, and thanks in advance.
Hi there! Thanks for reaching out and for your keen observation. You're correct; when working with stretch knits, many sewists prefer not to use pins as they can leave visible holes or distort the fabric. Instead, you can use alternatives like clips or fabric weights to hold the pieces together. Clips, often made of plastic or metal, work well as they secure the fabric without causing damage. Another option is to use fabric weights, which are small objects placed on the fabric to keep it in place. Each method has its advantages, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your project. Happy sewing!💜
I have exactly the same issue with the strap turner xx
Glad it's not just me!
Christine I bought those scissors because of you and I absolutely love them! 😍 They’re wonderful for narrow hems after you’ve sewn your first line of,stitching and have to trim the seam down to sew another line. It was an absolute dream, and no bulky seams. 😅 Anyway my love, I’m going to be sewing my first ever stretch knit garment this week, (😳😬 so nervous), but I just wanted to ask you 1) when gathering a stretch knit as is required on my pattern, do I use a regular long STRAIGHT stitch that I’d use on a woven please or something else? And 2) what about interfacing, is there a special one for knits, or do I just use ordinary interfacing? Thank you ever so much in advance my darling. I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone so I thought I’d ask the fearless expert. 😊
Hi! First off, I'm thrilled to hear you love the scissors! 😍 For gathering stretch knits, opt for a long, narrow zigzag stitch to maintain elasticity. This will help prevent the stitches from popping when the fabric stretches. As for interfacing, use a knit or stretch interfacing specifically designed for knits to preserve flexibility. You're on the right track by stepping out of your comfort zone-go for it, and happy sewing! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask 💜
@@SewingandtheCity Oh Christine I love you! 🤗 Thank you so much for your helpful tips, and yes I will most definitely ask if I need more help. After about a 15 year absence I've started sewing again especially to get me through these depressing winter months, and all I can say is I'm in love...... 🥰🥰🥰
I love my walking foot. It makes pattern matching, sewing heavy fabrics and knits so much easier. I also have one of those loop turners and have had the same problems as you. I have been trying the thread method but am still finding that ineffective; the thread/cord always breaks and/or it gets too bulky at the starting end. I have a dress form too, and even with the same measurements, the distribution is totally wrong for my body. It’s ok for learning draping and pattern fitting methods, but not projects specific to me.
I'm glad you love your walking foot! 💜 For turning loops, keep experimenting with different methods to find what works best for you. Each fabric might require a slightly different approach. And it's true, dress forms can be helpful for some aspects of sewing, but custom projects often require adjustments for individual body shapes. Keep up the great work and happy sewing! 😁
I have wondered that about the magnetic seam gauge. And I never would have thought about those fit issues with a mannequin. I also see she doesn't have a way to lengthen the torso? Maybe she does. But, good to know! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for tuning in! You can lengthen the torso a bit :-)
I use the loop turned to pull through elastics in casings. Wish I could find left hand duckbill scissors. Right hand scissors just do not function in the left hand and it would be a nightmare game of roulette if I tried them in my right😅. Please, tell me if anyone knows a supplier! Also, I have straight bladed rechargeable scissors and they work well, even in smaller places. Just need some practice before cutting the good stuff 😂.
You can find left-hand duckbill scissors online through various sewing suppliers. As for the rechargeable scissors, practice will help you become more comfortable using them, so keep at it and happy sewing!💜💜