How To Sew An Easy Decorative Pillow Cover

Dear Sewing Friends on my Sewing Blog:

So many of you have asked about decorative pillow covers.

Here is a recent article about how to sew a Harem pillow that I thought you might like.

Sewing your own pillows is fun and saves a ton of money.

Try this pillow and let me know how it turned out for you. Please post your comments here.

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

How To Sew An Easy Decorative Pillow Cover

- by Marian Lewis

©2006Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Decorative pillows are a quick and easy way to perk up your decor. They can be very expensive to buy, but very easy and inexpensive to sew your own.

Here is how to sew an easy, decorative pillow cover that takes very little time or effort. Even a beginner can do it!

This style pillow is sometimes called a "Harem" pillow. It is a different version of the "Knife Edge" pillow.

This is a great way to dress up and recycle your old knife edge pillows. You can also purchase or make a knife edge pillow liner or form to insert in the Harem cover.

To make the "Harem" cover, follow these instructions:

1. Cut 2 squares or rectangles of fabric the desired pillow size plus 1/2 inch seam allowances all around.

2. Place right sides together and stitch three sides of the pillow plus around the corners on the fourth side for about 2-1/2 inches on each side leaving an opening in the middle to insert the pillow liner or form.

Note: You have the option to insert a zipper in the fourth seam or leave the opening to insert the pillow form and hand stitch the opening closed.

3. Press the seam allowances open.

4. Do not cut or trim the seams or corners.

5. While the pillow cover is wrong side out, draw a line across each corner on an angle about 2-1/2 inches down from the corner.

6. While still wrong side out, pinch and gather up the corners with your fingers along the drawn line.

7. Use string or strong carpet thread to wrap around the pinched corner and tie a secure knot.

8. Now, turn the cover right side out.

9. Insert your knife edge pillow liner or form.

Note: It is not necessary to tie the corners of your knife edge pillow liner.

10. Close the zipper or slipstitch the opening closed.

Enjoy your Harem pillow.

Another idea is to go ahead and turn your pillow cover right side out first and then tie all four corners for a different look. Tie the corners with some decorative cord and tassels.

Cut up sheets or pillow cases to make your Harem pillows to match your bedroom decor. It adds a real decorator touch!

If you are artistic, here is your chance to have your accent pillows make a statement in your home. A pillow is the perfect palette to do your creative thing whether it is stitching, painting, photography, or whatever, put it on your pillows.

Try it! It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog.

Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

If you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look.Thanks!

Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

Sewing Tip - Pre-shape Zippers Before Sewing In Curved Seams

Hi Sewing Friends on my Sewing Blog:

So many of our garments are fitted today. Sewing a zipper in a curved seam can sometimes be very challenging.

Here is an article I wrote that might help you avoid the frustration of a buckling zipper in a shaped seam.

Try it! It just makes sense!

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing Tip - Pre-shape Zippers Before Sewing In Curved Seams

- by Marian Lewis

©2006Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Here is a sewing tip to help you when you are sewing a zipper in a curved seam.

Zippers are straight and your fitted garment has curved or shaped seams.

You need to pre-shape your zippers before you insert them into curved seams.

By pre-shaping the zipper tape, you remove the stiffness of the zipper, make it work easily into a shaped seam and allow it to conform to the body curves without buckling.

Follow this process:

Remove the zipper from the package.

Wet the zipper thoroughly and let it dry to preshrink it.

Press the tapes flat on each side of the metal teeth or nylon coil with a steam iron or with a damp cloth.

NOTE: Be careful when you are pressing near a nylon coil. If the iron is too hot, it will melt the coil.

After the first press, dampen the tapes once again with a damp sponge or wet cloth.

Press the tapes while still damp - one side at a time. This time, stretch the tape and shape into an outward curve while pressing.

Press until dry using the stretching, curving motion.

By shaping the zipper this way, you make it more flexible. When you insert it into a curved seam, it will conform to the curve beautifully.

Try it! It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog.

Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

If you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look.Thanks!

Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

How To Shorten The Hem Of Cuffed Pants

Hi Sewing Friends on my Sewing Blog:

I've had a few requests for a sewing technique on how to shorten the hem of cuffed pants. So, here is a recent article I wrote on hemming cuffed pants.

So many of you need to do this. It gets costly sending your pants to the tailor all the time. You can do it. It is not that difficult if you take one step at a time.

Try it! It just makes sense!

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

How To Shorten The Hem Of Cuffed Pants

- by Marian Lewis©2006

Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

To shorten the hem of pants with a cuff is easy if you follow these instructions:

First try on the pants to determine how much you need to shorten them. Measure both legs as one may be different from the other. Write down that number. Example: 3 inches.

Then, measure the depth of the pant cuff and write down that number. Example: 1-1/4 inches.

Next, release the stitching on each side of the cuff to drop it down.

Now, measure the depth of the total hem with the cuff turned down. Example: 2-1/4 inches. Write that down.

Remove the hem stitching and press the pants well with steam.

Note: White vinegar is great to set or remove a crease. Just paint it right on the crease and press with steam. It will clear your sinuses, too. Don't worry, you won't smell like a salad when you wear your pants.

Now, cut off the amount you determined that you needed to shorten the pants. The example was 3 inches.

Finish the new raw edge to keep from fraying. You can either serge or zigzag the edge whipstitch it or bind it with seam tape.

Then, press up your new hem the same amount as the original hem. The example was 2-1/4 inches.

Stitch the hem in place and press well.

Turn back the cuff the same as the original cuff. The example was 1-1/4 inches.

Press well.

Tack the cuff in place at the inseam and outseam of the pants.

Enjoy your shortened cuffed pants.

Try it! It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog.

Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

If you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look.Thanks!

Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Hemming Jeans With A Designer Eurohem

Hi Sewing Friends on my Sewing Blog

I thought I would share this technique with you. It might come in handy whenever you need to shorten pants with decorative or special hems of all types.

It is called a "Eurohem" technique.

Yes, I know that term is used to describe a weighted hem in curtains and draperies, but the younger crowd use it in terms of hemming their designer jeans when they want to preserve that frayed, worn stitched hem.

You might find other uses for it in your sewing. Share your ideas with us here.

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Hemming Jeans With A Designer Eurohem

- by Marian Lewis©2006

Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

The designer eurohem is a hemming technique primarily used in hemming jeans to preserve the worn hem and stitching of the original hem while shortening the jeans.

Here is how to do that!

Put on your jeans to determine how much you need to shorten them. Fold up the bottom to the length you want.

Mark the bottom fold with a pin.

Check and mark both legs in case one is shorter than the other.

Remove the jeans. Measure the distance from the pin to the top of the original hem stitching. Do NOT include the finished hem in this measurement.

Example: From the pin in the bottom fold (the finished length you want) to the top of the original hem stitching equals 2-1/2 inches.

Divide this amount by 2. Example: 2 -1/2 inches divided by 2 = 1-1/4 inches

Fold up the bottom of the jeans to the outside having the right sides together.

Measure from the top of the original hem stitching down to the 1/2 amount that you determined you needed to shorten the jeans.

Example: In my example, this would be 1-1/4 inches.

What you will actually do is take a tuck in the jeans leg right above the original hem line.

Place a pin right beside the top of the original stitching line. Measure all around the jeans leg and pin to hold the tuck in place right beside the original hem stitching line.

Make sure it is smooth and measures the same all around the leg.

Note: If the jeans are flared, the bottom hem will be larger than the width of the shortened leg.
Then, you must open the inseam of the original hem and shorten it to meet the new leg width.

With a zipper foot on your machine, stitch the tuck close to the original stitching line , removing the pins as you come to them.

The original worn hem and stitching should be visible when you are finished.

Press the original hem down.

Press the tuck up inside the leg if it is less than an inch. If it is more, cut off the extra fabric leaving about 3/4 of an inch to allow for fraying. Press this fabric up into the leg.

On the outside of the leg, stitch in the ditch (well of the seam) on both the inseam and out seam of the jeans to hold the tuck up into the leg.

Press well.

The jeans still have the original hem at the bottom and the tuck is not noticeable.

Enjoy your Designer Eurohemmed Jeans!

Try it! It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog. Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

If you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look.

Thanks!

Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

Sewing A Neat No Bulk Flared Hem

Hi Sewing Friends:

I recently got a question asking about sewing a neat hem in a flared skirt.

A turned up hem requires easing in a lot of fabric and creates a bulky finish.

Here is one of the best techniques I know to eliminate bulk and have a neat professional looking hem in a flared garment.

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing A Neat No Bulk Flared Hem

- by Marian Lewis

©2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

When sewing a flared skirt, do you have a problem with a too much bulk in the hem?

Here is the answer for a smooth finish.

Face a circular or flared skirt hem with bias.

Cut a 5-6 inch wide bias strip of organza or light weight lining fabric long enough to fit the lower edge of the skirt.

Piece the strip on the straight of grain of the fabric to create the length you need.

Mark the desired hemline on the skirt with chalk or basting thread.

For medium flared skirts, trim off the lower edge 1-1/2 inches below the marked line.

For circular flares, trim off 1 inch below the marked line.

Fold the organza/lining fabric strip in half lengthwise with right sides out.

Baste the two bias edges of the strip together.

Slightly stretching the raw edges of the bias, stitch it to the outside of the skirt at the lower edge with raw edges meeting. Do not stretch the hem

Join the ends of the bias at one side seam of the skirt.

Press the seam toward the bias.

Turn up the hem on the marked line and baste along the lower fold edge.

With the skirt wrong side up, press the bias lightly and gently shape the bias strip to fit inside the skirt.

Pin in place.

Slip stitch the upper fold of the bias to the inside of the skirt. Look how nice and neat it is!

If you are hemming a straight edge, there is no need to stretch the bias.

This is a great technique to use when you hem pleated garments or any heavy fabric to help lessen the bulk and create a nice finished look.

Try it! It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog. Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=I

f you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look. Thanks!Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.htm

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

l=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing With Fusible Thread

Hi Sewing Friends:

Just a quick note to remind you about the virtues of sewing with fusible thread.

If you haven't used it yet, you really need to do that.

If you are using it, how about sharing your ideas with us? Add them here.


We would love to hear from you.


To Your Sewing Success,


Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing With Fusible Thread

- by Marian Lewis

©2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Here are a few tips and ideas when sewing with fusible thread.

Fill a bobbin (slowly) or use it in your lower looper to simplify multiple tasks. Fusible thread creates a temporary bond to hold things in place while you complete the permanent stitching. It should not be used alone to make permanent seams.

For perfect bias binding, use fusible thread in the bobbin. Use a zigzag stitch to join the binding to the garment or quilt. Fold the bias over the edge. Press the edge (do not iron) lightly to enclose it and fuse in place. Now, you can stitch-in-the-ditch or well of the seam to make perfect binding every time.

Install centered zippers easily. Stitch down both sides of the back of the zipper tape with fusible thread in the bobbin. Center the zipper over the basted closed zipper seam allowances. Press in place. Now you can topstitch the zipper without any shifting. Remove the basted stitches to open the seam and zip your zipper.

Fusible thread is ideal when you want to match plaids or a design. With fusible thread on the top of the machine, straight stitch on the right side of the fabric 1/2" from the edge on one side of the seam. Fold this seam over on the 5/8" stitching line. Line up this edge with the 5/8" seam line on the other seam matching the plaid or design. Press and fuse in place. Now, stitch the seam as normal knowing that the design is matched and is held in place.

Use fusible thread when working with fake suede or difficult fabrics to keep them in place when stitching.

Use fusible thread to outline your appliques and fuse in place prior to satin stitching.

Try using it in the lower looper of your serger with a decorative thread in the upper loopers to serge around picture frame placemats.

Lay a length of fusible thread in the crease of your pants or in a pleat to help hold the crease. Cut a length of thread longer than you actually need. It shrinks up when it melts. Press, do not iron, to fuse the thread in the crease.

For a quick and easy turned hem, serge the edge of the fabric with fusible thread in the lower looper. Turn the hem and lightly press to hold. Then, complete your final stitching.

There are many uses for this thread. Try using it for basting and trapunto techniques, too.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog. Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=I

f you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"



Copy and paste the link:=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look. Thanks!Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing "All-In-One" Short/Long Formals

Hi Sewing Friends:

This is a busy month for us. We celebrate 50 years of marriage and both of our birthdays in March.

To celebrate our anniversary, we are going on a cruise with our family.

This requires some formal attire. I don't often have occasion to wear formal attire, so it doesn't make sense to me to invest a whole lot of money in it. I would rather put my money into something that I can wear more often.

So, I thought I would share an idea with you. Let me know what you think.

To Your Sewing Success,

Marian

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Sewing "All-In-One" Short/Long Formals

- by Marian Lewis

©2006 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved

1st Step To Sewing Success

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Here is a formal dress that is an all-time classic and still works today. It is a great idea for bridesmaids dresses.

This clever dress actually leads a double life. It's design gives it the unique ability to be worn long to the ankle or as short as you like. It is one that doesn't have to spend most of its life in the closet. It converts into a short length with the drop of a skirt.

The secret of this simple slender dress is the second skirt which is attached to a half slip of lining and is worn underneath the short dress.

When worn together, they give a tunic like effect. To convert to the short length, the half-slip is removed and with it the attached lower skirt.

This idea is not for flared, full or bouffant skirts. But, it works beautifully on slim straight skirts or dresses.

To sew this skirt, you need an additional 1-1/8 yards of the dress or skirt fabric and about 2 yards of 42 inch lining fabric. (Ambiance Bemberg Rayon works well.)

Finish sewing the short dress or short skirt first.

Then sew a long half slip of lining fabric.

1. Use a simple straight skirt pattern that fits you. It should have a center back seam.

2. Add about 12 inches to the length. Plan to finish the lining hem about 2 inches above the ankle.

3. Cut the width of the lining slip the same as the bottom width of your short dress or short skirt.

4. Stitch the side seams at 3/4" rather than 5/8". This will make the slip slightly smaller to fit under the short dress or short skirt.

5. Make a narrow elastic waist or a narrow waist band with a side opening. A zipper is not necessary.

6. Plan to have a slit in the center back seam for walking ease.

7. Try on the short dress and long half-slip.

8. Mark the half-slip 3 inches above the finished lower edge of the dress. This is where you will attach the lower skirt.

The Lower Skirt

1. For the lower skirt, use the dress pattern.

2. Measure 20 inches up from the lower edge of the pattern and mark front and back. Use this lower marked section for your under lower skirt pattern.

3. Stitch the center back seam at 5/8" and leave a slit opening for walking ease.

4. Stitch the lower skirt together making the side seams 3/4" deep.

5. Place right sides together with the bottom of the lower skirt laying up toward the half-slip waist and the top edge of the lower skirt laying along the marked line on the half-slip.

6. Stitch the lower skirt to the half-slip along the marking that is 3 inches above the short length dress.

7. Turn the lower skirt down over the stitched seam.

8. Hem the lower edge to your desired length.

9. Whip the half-slip lining slit to the lower skirt slit to secure.

Enjoy your "All-In-One" short/long formal.

It just makes sense!

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

End Of Article

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

PS: If you enjoyed this article or have a comment, please do so here on my Sewing Success Blog. Actually, you can check out most of my articles here. You might find something that interests you. I welcome your feedback :-)

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

If you have sewing related questions that you would like to have answered, ask them here or at:

=> http://1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/questionburning.html

I'll do my best to answer them for you.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Marian Lewis is a sewing instructor, author and creator of an amazing new fitting method for hard-to-fit sewing folks who want great fitting skirts and pants. In her mini-course ebook, she teaches step-by-step common sense techniques how to find out WHAT you really need, WHERE you really need it and HOW to apply that to a commercial sewing pattern.

Marian is also the author of many articles and other mini-course ebooks related to sewing highlighting, "It Doesn't LOOK Homemade"Sewing Techniques.

Copy and paste the link now to check out her website at:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/

Discover Fitting And Sewing SecretsTo Achieve Sewing Success

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Common Sense Fitting Method For Hard-To-Fit Sewing Folks Who Want Great Fitting Skirts And Pants"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/fitting.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Sew A Tee Pee And Accessories For Your Tribe Of Kids"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

For information on the mini-course ebook:

"Classy Designer Straight Skirt"

Copy and paste the link:

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/sewing.html

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

**Attn: Ezine editors / Site owners **

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine, blog, autoresponder, or on your site so long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed above.

Please let us know if you use the article and where you put it so we can take a look. Thanks!

Feel free to substitute your affiliate link in place of our link in the resource box.

Affiliate details are available here:

"1st Step To Sewing Success" Affiliate Program

=> http://www.1ststeptosewingsuccess.com/affiliate.html

See more about sewing

Keywords: sewing, sewing tips, sewing techniques, sewing projects, how to sew, sew

Feed Shark

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=