Month: October 2023

  • The power of pockets – 3 common pocket types

    🧡 Let’s Talk Pockets: The Great Pocket Showdown! 🧡

    Today, we’re diving into a pocket showdown, where it’s patch pockets, welt pockets, and inseam pockets duking it out for the title of “Ultimate Sewing Sidekick!” I often comment, if it doesn’t have pockets, I didn’t want it anyway, pockets are life! Let’s take a look at the top 3 and see which pocket will win the top pocket prize.

    🌟 Patch Pockets: The Versatile Darling 🌟

    Pros:
    – Simplicity at its best! Patch pockets are beginner-friendly and can be added to almost any garment.
    – Instant functionality. They’re like the handyman of pockets, always there when you need them.
    – Customize to your heart’s content! Play with shapes, sizes, and embellishments to make them uniquely yours.

    Cons:
    – Style-wise, they can be a bit casual, so they may not be your go-to for dressier outfits.
    – If not securely attached, they can sag over time and lose their shape.

    *Elodie Dress with Patch Pockets Pictured. Read the Review here

    🌟 Welt Pockets: The Elegant Enigma 🌟

    Pros:
    – Sleek and sophisticated! Welt pockets bring an air of elegance to your garments.
    – They are discreet but mighty. Keep your essentials close without compromising style.
    – Versatile placement. You can add them to pants, skirts, or even jackets for a polished look.

    Cons:
    – Precision is key! Getting those corners perfect can be a tad tricky, especially for beginners.
    – Mistakes can be hard to undo. Once you cut that welt, there’s no turning back, so measure twice!

    *Women’s Adventure Jacket Pictured. Buy the Pattern here.

    🌟 Inseam Pockets: The Seamless Surprise 🌟

    Pros:
    – Seamlessly stylish. These pockets blend into your garments like a secret agent at a fancy gala.
    – They’re spacious without adding bulk, making them perfect for dresses and slim-fit pants.
    – Comfort is king. Inseam pockets won’t disrupt the clean lines of your outfit.

    *Cons*:
    – Placement matters! If not positioned correctly, they can be a bit awkward to reach.
    – Sewing them requires precision, and any uneven seams will be visible, so take your time.

    *Woman’s Cheyanne Dress Pictured. Buy the Pattern here.

    πŸ† The Verdict πŸ† It's a Tie!

    There you have it! The ultimate pocket showdown ends in a tie because, in sewing, it’s not about one being better than the other; it’s about choosing the right pocket for your project. Patch pockets are your casual companions, welt pockets bring a touch of elegance, and inseam pockets keep things seamless.

    Ready to continue the pocket adventure? Click below to join our membership and get an exclusive masterclass on the top 3 pockets and tips and instructions on how to sew them. Not to mention support and community from other incredible creatives.
    Let’s sew, chat, and create together! πŸͺ‘πŸ‘—πŸ§΅

  • 3 Tips for a BEAUTIFUL rolled hem

    Achieving a flawless rolled hem on stretch fabrics can be a bit of a challenge. Unlike woven fabrics, stretch fabrics, also known as knit fabrics, have their unique quirksβ€”stretchiness, curling edges, you name it. But don’t let these challenges deter you! A well-done rolled hem can transform your stretch fabric projects, giving them such a gorgeous and pro looking finish. Here are three pro tips to guide you:

    1. Mind Your Thread Tension

    Tension settings on your serger play a crucial role in how your rolled hem turns out. Too loose, and the fabric won’t roll properly; too tight, and you’ll get puckering. A well-balanced tension is key. Adjust your tension dials gradually, and always test on a scrap piece first. Your machine’s manual might offer some guidance, but remember, every stretch fabric is different. You’ll often need to trust your instincts.

    2. Keep Your Cutting Blade Engaged

    The cutting blade on your serger helps trim off the excess fabric as you sew, making sure that the hem rolls neatly. Some people disengage it, thinking they’ll achieve more control, but for most stretch fabrics, keeping it engaged ensures that the fabric is guided correctly and cut evenly. Again, practice on a scrap piece to make sure you’ve got the blade position just right.

    3. Use a Wooly Nylon or Maxi Lock Stretch thread

    For a rolled hem that looks smooth and feels soft, woolly nylon or Maxi Lock Stretch thread can be a game-changer. This type of thread has a bit of stretch and a fluffy texture, which fills in the gaps in the rolled hem, giving it a fuller, more professional appearance. The stretch in woolly nylon and Maxi Lock Stretch also accommodates the natural give in stretch fabrics, reducing the likelihood of popped stitches. Just thread it into your loopers (I use it in my upper) and you’ll see the difference it makes.

    Ready for More?

    These are exactly the kind of tips you’ll get in my exclusive sewing community, The Sewing Corner.

    If you’d like to be involved in monthly live sew alongs, live sew together sessions and amazing guest experts, come join our community. Sewing can be a lonely hobby, but you don’t have to sew alone any longer!

    Don’t miss out on this opportunity to improve your skills and achieve the results you’ve always wanted in your sewing projects. Click here to learn more and join.

  • Stretching the Limits: The Magic of Clear Elastic in Sewing

    Today, we’re about to unravel one of the best-kept secrets in the sewing world: clear elastic. Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or just beginning your sewing adventure, this unassuming, translucent material is about to become your new best friend. Clear elastic brings a bit of magic to your sewing projects, and we’re here to spill the beans on why it’s a must-have in your toolkit.

    The Pros of Clear Elastic:

    1. Stabilizing Stretch Fabrics:
    Imagine sewing a comfy T-shirt, only to have it stretch out of shape after a few wears. Clear elastic comes to the rescue! It stabilizes stretch fabrics like a pro, ensuring your creations maintain their shape and fit.

    2. Hidden Support:
    Clear elastic has a superpower – it’s virtually invisible when sewn into fabric. This makes it perfect for those behind-the-scenes jobs, like providing support in swimwear, lingerie, or anywhere you want hidden strength without visible stitching lines.

    3. Durability:
    Let’s face it; we want our sewing creations to stand the test of time. Clear elastic is not only strong but also durable, so you can count on your projects lasting for many sewing seasons to come.

    4. Easy to Sew:
    You don’t need to be a sewing wizard to work with clear elastic. It’s beginner-friendly! You can stitch it right into your seams or apply it with zigzag stitching along the fabrics’ edge. Easy-peasy!

    5. Preventing Shoulder Droop:
    Ever had a dress or top where the shoulders start drooping over time? Clear elastic can be your hero here. It helps to prevent stretching and sagging, so your garments look fresh and perky.

    Tips for Sewing with Clear Elastic:

    1. Use a Stretch Needle:
    Your sewing machine will love you for this one. When working with clear elastic, use a stretch or ballpoint needle. It helps prevent skipped stitches and fabric damage. I use a size 90/14.

    2. Keep it taught as You Sew:
    Here’s a nifty trick: ever so gently stretch the clear elastic as you sew it to match the fabrics’ stretch. Basically keep it really taught while sewing. This prevents puckering and ensures a comfy fit. Also don’t forget to secure the start and finish with a back stitch!

    3. Practice on Scrap Fabric:
    If you’re new to clear elastic, don’t worry! Practice on scrap fabric first to get the hang of it before diving into your main project. This will give you the chance to check the tension settings as well and make any adjustments if needed.

    4. Get Creative:
    Clear elastic isn’t just for seams. Get imaginative and use it in different ways, like adding it to cuffs, necklines, or waistbands for that extra structure and flair.

    And there you have it, folks – the not-so-secret magic of clear elastic in sewing. It’s versatile, invisible, and oh-so-helpful in keeping your sewing creations looking sharp. So, the next time you’re stitching up a storm, don’t forget to let clear elastic work its wonders. And when it’s time to care for your precious creations, remember this tip: consider hand washing or using a gentle cycle to prolong the life of your elastic and your hard work.

    Happy sewing!

    My latest creation, the Diana Top using clear elastic in the neckline and bodice at the skirt for extra stability.