tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-193250397544546812024-03-16T11:51:53.193-07:00Simply StitchyOllyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-67707497326576202302024-02-13T14:39:00.000-08:002024-02-13T15:06:09.943-08:00The Charity Shop Find & the Headache from Hell!<p> Hi all</p><p>I've always been a fan of charity shops. Even before they became a fashionable way to reuse or repurpose other people's unwanted clutter. </p><p>To me, they have always been a gateway for feeding my addiction to vintage and antique sewing machines. </p><p>Like this one. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4jtpMNzHYD_T1V336AMC4lQ0-zMqATcWyMzex2QAQXmtoOOMVguZEc0E-9sVLxBHdMY3Ssg9eJixC1_e1R3o1oS7ZVrvETllRipOkNIFsYkFKg2ZQg4aO7j6rUbhZQbAMEXhWx55x7oxVWiW8BTYszcw895SbxRSnv2Abqh2PWXN1tWYgV8mBjkLfg/s640/DSCN9414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4jtpMNzHYD_T1V336AMC4lQ0-zMqATcWyMzex2QAQXmtoOOMVguZEc0E-9sVLxBHdMY3Ssg9eJixC1_e1R3o1oS7ZVrvETllRipOkNIFsYkFKg2ZQg4aO7j6rUbhZQbAMEXhWx55x7oxVWiW8BTYszcw895SbxRSnv2Abqh2PWXN1tWYgV8mBjkLfg/w444-h333/DSCN9414.jpg" width="444" /></a></div><p>Isn't she a beauty? According to the markings, She is a New Home machine made in West Germany so I'm guessing she's a post war... maybe 1950s... electric sewing machine. </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEfbc0d6eRQ7EDX9oDCYNmrx36BY0yCsazGYxi1OszisMXYXwxkeActOrHf_WoW9WDen6vtdLutDVht4z9K2MYvMDeJfijXkZOzyXxOrJzVVwNgPA8G_LWqW13W4Fq5hGyW-lJvuqJyFil8kmlu20N_7vOQ7cmXmb0JawtVVFQ_WQi_sEiBLVEd24Tg/s640/DSCN9422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEfbc0d6eRQ7EDX9oDCYNmrx36BY0yCsazGYxi1OszisMXYXwxkeActOrHf_WoW9WDen6vtdLutDVht4z9K2MYvMDeJfijXkZOzyXxOrJzVVwNgPA8G_LWqW13W4Fq5hGyW-lJvuqJyFil8kmlu20N_7vOQ7cmXmb0JawtVVFQ_WQi_sEiBLVEd24Tg/s320/DSCN9422.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>She has a bolt-on motor and the shortest electric cable I have ever seen on a sewing machine!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWifBGgkeM5uMv0_R0GrwXEiQfR3vxuZYMYAGSqWwLqDsvavZ_2_eL7WkBuCj13BA0Ucoz9uN5NDjbWW4S3EV-cB3Hv-_d7mblDpVBOzlAQL80JXDun9DkHa0M7fGXBC5tNKLffRp4is4XSbJjR1CHT5nuLrKSYLCTzduL2X_70eIATfwBCEMHKeC7dw/s640/DSCN9416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWifBGgkeM5uMv0_R0GrwXEiQfR3vxuZYMYAGSqWwLqDsvavZ_2_eL7WkBuCj13BA0Ucoz9uN5NDjbWW4S3EV-cB3Hv-_d7mblDpVBOzlAQL80JXDun9DkHa0M7fGXBC5tNKLffRp4is4XSbJjR1CHT5nuLrKSYLCTzduL2X_70eIATfwBCEMHKeC7dw/w387-h290/DSCN9416.jpg" width="387" /></a></div><p>Look at it! It's tiny! That's never going to reach any of my electrical outlets. I'm thinking that this vintage sewing machine was made to be in a cabinet... or a previous owner cut the cable for some reason. </p><p>Maybe their outlets were mounted on a desk and they didn't want long cables cluttering the workspace? </p><p></p><p>Who knows? One thing I do know, is this sewing machine is going to give me a little bit of a headache! </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF0fNwu3CIZVKZ6K2VnW3tRhs-DRA4B6WWNc551xhWeE1HHqX-r1W26Ooui07FkNCs9FM76BH36sivF9L1y1C3U-EBh_ORLZadWrXC8TtM1hHgvclS-vOGWKIJS5w811oBiwty2SzGdZMji6IVplf4aE5y-6jpbhcbm9gIlwzm96hwOwjytNkRoDoWA/s640/DSCN9418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF0fNwu3CIZVKZ6K2VnW3tRhs-DRA4B6WWNc551xhWeE1HHqX-r1W26Ooui07FkNCs9FM76BH36sivF9L1y1C3U-EBh_ORLZadWrXC8TtM1hHgvclS-vOGWKIJS5w811oBiwty2SzGdZMji6IVplf4aE5y-6jpbhcbm9gIlwzm96hwOwjytNkRoDoWA/w400-h300/DSCN9418.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p>Why? Because she's missing a few parts. </p><p>Like the foot controller, the bobbin and the bobbin case. But she was just too shiny to leave behind. So I broke some of my own rules when it comes to <a href="https://youtu.be/p8XwowJv3A0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">buying a used sewing machine!</a><br /></p><p>That's one of the biggest disadvantages of buying vintage and antique sewing machines from charity shops or second hand stores... they don't usually come with their accessories. There are a couple of reasons for this.</p><p>Sometimes the person donating the machine isn't aware that there are other bits that need to go with it. Other times... it's because some stores will separate the parts from the machine to double their profit. </p><p>A charity shop I used to go to did that with all their electrical items, not just the sewing machines. The item would be on one shelf and the power cables and pedals would be in a box full of cables at the other end of the store. </p><p>Without a label on any of them to say what item they belonged to. Sifting through a box full of electrical debris isn't my idea of a fun day out. <br /></p><p>Another thing I try to avoid is buying vintage and antique sewing machines without either the bobbin or the bobbin case. With so many different bobbins and bobbin cases out there looking for the right combination for a particular machine can be a headache from hell.</p><p>I should have known better!</p><p>My initial research into this New Home sewing machine hasn't turned up much information on bobbins or cases. But never fear! I will continue my search to get this gem back up and running.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgI34aAWSCTi8KlPNEwnoz-zA_Q0UgvyphtoKSDiWgrwXuTip2CicUZMO4b32wL8jx0ONYhPM1zN8xxyXxQ-gcOV6tNguMack7ve3u7TTX1jx5IfXMG8H8Aopb7RihCEjQEH9S-OdRRKlm9bKrUcJYrg4hsOwQwLyMmOx8CDU1-bngNOb8vnHJHoA-g/s640/DSCN9427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXgI34aAWSCTi8KlPNEwnoz-zA_Q0UgvyphtoKSDiWgrwXuTip2CicUZMO4b32wL8jx0ONYhPM1zN8xxyXxQ-gcOV6tNguMack7ve3u7TTX1jx5IfXMG8H8Aopb7RihCEjQEH9S-OdRRKlm9bKrUcJYrg4hsOwQwLyMmOx8CDU1-bngNOb8vnHJHoA-g/w399-h299/DSCN9427.jpg" width="399" /></a></div> <p></p><p>The good news... I think I can get away without a base or cabinet! There is plenty of ground clearance between the base of the bobbin housing and the table surface.</p><p>Thanks to some clever and thoughtful machine markings, I also know what kind of needle it takes:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qEhuMXDJ7RUDIgpafL12zzwKqffzoxImA4BOHnNbp_VCRwn9_Q0PlBwKI7MzG41pa828w82Jnc7_ZlYuiw3kJbQ83K3lkHO9ADI4my8Cdw3vo9U5C1IHIL_knIaDKW1KdOcP26z9TzYL-PBVTRHax4ESZ0mf4pigGfPfWkfG6B5htTmyEmt0ua8UVQ/s640/DSCN9426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qEhuMXDJ7RUDIgpafL12zzwKqffzoxImA4BOHnNbp_VCRwn9_Q0PlBwKI7MzG41pa828w82Jnc7_ZlYuiw3kJbQ83K3lkHO9ADI4my8Cdw3vo9U5C1IHIL_knIaDKW1KdOcP26z9TzYL-PBVTRHax4ESZ0mf4pigGfPfWkfG6B5htTmyEmt0ua8UVQ/w385-h289/DSCN9426.jpg" width="385" /></a></div><p></p><p>How cool is that? It takes a class 16 needle! Why don't all sewing machine manufacturers put the needle type on the needle plate? Our sewing lives would be so much easier! </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9DiIUQtLMR6g9Knju94JmyR3qZWPzVkNBnID9IiY1eXaKlgppWdoEGHwypxgIcqgMhZ2QUmol6offFqjazxMel0FTxtkmiPOgTONWCIbaE_LuDO4LMo_ORHRbsIYFkbnLh3j224EyVRRYY2ISKGEy8hWaKaQCSrHs0RpugXUz_h4wKbmUD7XMG23jA/s640/DSCN9429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9DiIUQtLMR6g9Knju94JmyR3qZWPzVkNBnID9IiY1eXaKlgppWdoEGHwypxgIcqgMhZ2QUmol6offFqjazxMel0FTxtkmiPOgTONWCIbaE_LuDO4LMo_ORHRbsIYFkbnLh3j224EyVRRYY2ISKGEy8hWaKaQCSrHs0RpugXUz_h4wKbmUD7XMG23jA/w364-h273/DSCN9429.jpg" width="364" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Better still, there's no mystery about the direction the hand wheel should be turned. Good news for me as it's the same direction as my Singer sewing machines. I need an arrow like this on my <a href="https://youtu.be/KMsL4FwpwV0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wheeler & Wilson D9</a>... I'm always turning that one the wrong way. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsM-I2NpM2XLTeqCUFmC-q_mQ3a9JBat7Wdg3W4CJUNfE-MqYCsfmKbLGpb2FDvZDv4KKAXRvgkXpZiNoctgh_V0_sFB1pTripMsB7SwVZABjrBbr-m0UWxzAQLv7FL7Hu65UA1RnXlvPsZJ_3U-J_Q_Mof0A1iLKrC9AGtZY0pq80Vh-rhI7SX0qaVA/s640/DSCN9425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsM-I2NpM2XLTeqCUFmC-q_mQ3a9JBat7Wdg3W4CJUNfE-MqYCsfmKbLGpb2FDvZDv4KKAXRvgkXpZiNoctgh_V0_sFB1pTripMsB7SwVZABjrBbr-m0UWxzAQLv7FL7Hu65UA1RnXlvPsZJ_3U-J_Q_Mof0A1iLKrC9AGtZY0pq80Vh-rhI7SX0qaVA/w381-h286/DSCN9425.jpg" width="381" /></a></div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One thing that I was surprised to find, was the manual. Usually, that most important of little sewing books is the first thing to go missing. </div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLiIdjFpkPWUA6DYOFcd-8kftghwNtIx3o8a3CRHXThQSA5rggGPq-FTBn-Ic-WXCCQ_Quc9_HxHg7QAUTLFhk1-bo7l0PijxuhzD9X5jEuwGn1E5nzESeCEdK7YCxWrcXPN_Vw2TxFJCK8rK-hnTRss0JXTIuhzJKD4_wWg_6JZ5LTYDu5ihDNZGLA/s640/DSCN9428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLiIdjFpkPWUA6DYOFcd-8kftghwNtIx3o8a3CRHXThQSA5rggGPq-FTBn-Ic-WXCCQ_Quc9_HxHg7QAUTLFhk1-bo7l0PijxuhzD9X5jEuwGn1E5nzESeCEdK7YCxWrcXPN_Vw2TxFJCK8rK-hnTRss0JXTIuhzJKD4_wWg_6JZ5LTYDu5ihDNZGLA/w401-h301/DSCN9428.jpg" width="401" /></a></div><br />I've picked up two useful pieces of information from the front cover of the manual. The first is thanks to the handwriting across the top... "put zipper in with tape. Then sew over tape." Knowing that could come in handy next time I'm sewing a zip.<p></p><p>The second, the machine is a New Royal Zig Zag machine made by New Home Sewing Machine Co. I'm hoping that will help narrow down the search for the ever elusive bobbin combo. It probably won't but I am an eternal optimist so watch this space! </p><p>Now all I need to do is figure out if I need a foot control or a knee lever... and where to get one! If any of you have any hints and tips, I'm open to suggestions!</p><p>Whichever link you follow in this post, I hope you find your way back
here for the next one. In the meantime, whatever you’re sewing,
whatever you’re sewing it with, embrace your creativity and have fun!</p>
<p>Thanks for reading! Bye for now.</p>
<p>Olly</p>
<p><em>As an Amazon Associate,</em> I earn from qualifying purchases made through using the Amazon links that I include on my blogs and <em>my YouTube channel.</em></p><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-74499422804694486622024-02-01T10:53:00.000-08:002024-02-07T19:26:55.156-08:002024: A New Year and Time for a Change<p> Hi all</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivRza5UpxgJFklmQRfYONYheclZ011W7b1dhcVktkIrnigI233qZczWM11zY39LXNO5gNNpuQ2gF2JNjOad-sghRMgt-YO30WjlaMcNXgluLQcyQoieQ8odWVSZuvvXg3_yOWYbnsyXiRwzIs5hWAY9oe52qxKr6c4P3BAeUd6AOKnOd36eq_3SiSYw/s2167/Simplystitchy%20wall%20plaque%20Close%20up.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1796" data-original-width="2167" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivRza5UpxgJFklmQRfYONYheclZ011W7b1dhcVktkIrnigI233qZczWM11zY39LXNO5gNNpuQ2gF2JNjOad-sghRMgt-YO30WjlaMcNXgluLQcyQoieQ8odWVSZuvvXg3_yOWYbnsyXiRwzIs5hWAY9oe52qxKr6c4P3BAeUd6AOKnOd36eq_3SiSYw/s320/Simplystitchy%20wall%20plaque%20Close%20up.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>I've been running this Simply Stitchy blog on Blogger for quite a while now. Along with its sister site, Simply Thimbles, I've been using this platform since 2010, or thereabouts. That's 14 years!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0unxeaXu_dHAYsjfsk38MGStIMWqYB6YzN7rl9tQadmqTyxPsmVSoOHwgc9GvzGhaBR9C3X84G16t9V06R3vJSd2SclQSuEazwJi1vx-F14Ir6G8oC1sAEyEYpR3AdsUIJpSOmzyYdim-e1bclRkFtOkBouA58zlR0b5CJnFWp3rxyEHjyhEsyditcQ/s1561/Bear.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1561" data-original-width="1281" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0unxeaXu_dHAYsjfsk38MGStIMWqYB6YzN7rl9tQadmqTyxPsmVSoOHwgc9GvzGhaBR9C3X84G16t9V06R3vJSd2SclQSuEazwJi1vx-F14Ir6G8oC1sAEyEYpR3AdsUIJpSOmzyYdim-e1bclRkFtOkBouA58zlR0b5CJnFWp3rxyEHjyhEsyditcQ/s320/Bear.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Simply Thimbles Image property of Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p>Although I have been happily tapping away and posting the odd blog post here and there, and trust me, most of them are<a href="https://simplythimbles.blogspot.com/2010/01/names-bond-james-bond.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> definitely on the odd side</a>, the Blogger platform isn't exactly... idiot proof. </p><p>Not for this idiot anyway. <br /></p><p>I'm the first to admit my passion lies with <a href="https://simplystitchy.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-soft-spot-or-osmc.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">vintage sewing machines</a> not computer coding technologies. </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYok9-8hPqKmz20-Cl7QlqUZgYCh8hpx2PGTDRCHCeS79iHamqYQf6fPmvPg8lOENR-Up1Un7JYWAwekTn7dW6MAu5JPjkNsz02-ruYnieeIuXxgWoOxEzRtHtIOZ32EWGvAAzUryGI_qQluPqECUIJ7gDx8A85asTCPd9EOrPh8nqASKItCGwieMC7Q/s448/Singer3.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="448" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYok9-8hPqKmz20-Cl7QlqUZgYCh8hpx2PGTDRCHCeS79iHamqYQf6fPmvPg8lOENR-Up1Un7JYWAwekTn7dW6MAu5JPjkNsz02-ruYnieeIuXxgWoOxEzRtHtIOZ32EWGvAAzUryGI_qQluPqECUIJ7gDx8A85asTCPd9EOrPh8nqASKItCGwieMC7Q/s320/Singer3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Singer 128 Vibrating Shuttle Image Property of Olwen White <br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><p></p><p>You can even give me a top of the range modern sewing machine with bells, whistles, and flashy lights... like the <a href="https://www.janome.com/machines/embroidery/continental-m17-professional/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Janome Continental M17</a> (please Janome, if you're reading... give me one of those... or the M7... I'd be happy with the M7... pretty please?) and I'm in my element. </p><p>Make me figure out the intricacies of compose mode vs HTML... and I'm lost in a sea of tech speak that is way over my head. (Any hints, tips, or suggestions for navigating computer coding are welcome... just explain it to me like I'm 5 ;) lol).<br /></p><p>This is one of the reasons that I don't blog here as often as I used to. Or should do. Either the links won't work or the text will be mismatched through the different paragraphs... it can be annoying! Because I can't fix it. <br /></p><p>Don't get me wrong. It's not Blogger's fault. That's how this platform is set up. It's designed to be a no frills blogging portal. Ideal for bloggers who want to... well... blog. And I'm going to carry on doing just that. This will still be my go-to place for sharing all things sewing and sewing machines. Complete with format issues and broken links. <br /></p><p>But from an all-around content creator point of view, I also need more of a content management system (CMS) to help coordinate my activities. Or at least make my blogging life a bit simpler. <br /></p><p>As many of you know I run a YouTube channel called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzdGjNdIRO0ZG8pLExfWaZg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Simply Stitchy</a>. I compare vintage and modern sewing machines against each other. To show the changes that have been made since <a href="https://www.singer.com/history" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Singer was granted his first patent for a domestic sewing machine back in 1851</a>. It's been going since 2020 but has been slightly disconnected from my blog. </p><p>With a view to getting better coordination between YouTube and my Simply Stitchy blog, I'm also going to test out WordPress. </p><p>Creators across the internet are brimming with good things about WordPress as a CMS. I've used the platform for writing blogs before as part of my freelance writing for other sewing blogs. But never as a CMS for my own work. </p><p>From a blog writing point of view, the platform is a piece of cake. <br /></p><p>It has blocks. </p><p>I spend a lot of my sewing life dealing with <a href="https://simplystitchy0.wordpress.com/2023/07/20/quilt-show-trekking-across-the-usa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">blocks because I quilt</a>. </p><p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOd9ubBgq7Cxluh8cVHe3K_D3QnV6XOeFPtU6lniGBqtRFkzU2xMvVMFJfwiE-Q-iL6zivuBsldcu9HeRGMqVtB2KJoYHWRK9VEe61GVJ6c7TpKsMi5vX4LF-svFnLFjpbGCl446GbZTg2l5MpagZ3zsTf0YiFRQCrSLJgXDTC1YGS6oXWRwwaMB3YMQ/s1920/vlcsnap-2023-12-12-17h55m17s759.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1920" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOd9ubBgq7Cxluh8cVHe3K_D3QnV6XOeFPtU6lniGBqtRFkzU2xMvVMFJfwiE-Q-iL6zivuBsldcu9HeRGMqVtB2KJoYHWRK9VEe61GVJ6c7TpKsMi5vX4LF-svFnLFjpbGCl446GbZTg2l5MpagZ3zsTf0YiFRQCrSLJgXDTC1YGS6oXWRwwaMB3YMQ/s320/vlcsnap-2023-12-12-17h55m17s759.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Applique Block Image by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />2023 was my year for quilting... I took part in three... yes, three... Block of the Month quilts throughout the year. You can see the pictures over on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/simplystitchy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram page</a>. I even entered a block in a Quilt Block contest run by the <a href="https://youtu.be/HeeZkrFWNsU?si=cYIJgsMm9wIi4GlF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show</a>.<p></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kxBsaUXJLxYyVsdx3P4Sj-cQW4zsIoIelti2VViJ7bYzEdE8EWqW_0JbTpYwGYfKmgfp6nGwAUCuQU5XArxPtc235Gu2sm1w-3CP-xsmasNxvR9Nvw0AI1wEXq4tMORdFtou1o7XD0BE1F97cV5ucXB7WGnIOaDGJLFX2v1YJEE8sDKvFaWwTekJmA/s580/Quilt%20Block%20Entry%20Sisters%20Outdoor%20Quilt%20Show%202023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="580" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_kxBsaUXJLxYyVsdx3P4Sj-cQW4zsIoIelti2VViJ7bYzEdE8EWqW_0JbTpYwGYfKmgfp6nGwAUCuQU5XArxPtc235Gu2sm1w-3CP-xsmasNxvR9Nvw0AI1wEXq4tMORdFtou1o7XD0BE1F97cV5ucXB7WGnIOaDGJLFX2v1YJEE8sDKvFaWwTekJmA/s320/Quilt%20Block%20Entry%20Sisters%20Outdoor%20Quilt%20Show%202023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Although I didn't win the contest, it was fun to put a quilt block together for it. I'll be posting a blog about the Block of the Month quilts shortly. But for now, know that I like the sound of blocks. </p><p></p><p>And WordPress has blocks!<br /></p><p>Not quilting blocks. But separate blocks that you can pick and choose. There's a block for a heading, and another for an image. It handles the HTML so I don't have to think about it. </p><p>So for 2024 I'm going to be running two sewing blogs. Side by side. A personal, sewing blog here on Blogger and a more product based blog over on WordPress. That's my blogging strategy for 2024... and yes... I'll no doubt get them mixed up and post products on Blogger and personal sewing on WordPress. Because... well, that's just so me, lol. </p><p>Both will have links to my YouTube channel and, hopefully if I can figure out how to do it, they will be linked to each other so you don't miss any of my... ahem... odd content. </p><p>Although, you could also subscribe or follow both to make sure you don't miss anything. The WordPress blog can be <a href="https://wordpress.com/view/simplystitchy0.wordpress.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">found here</a>.</p><p>To help me decide which platform is best, why not let me know in the comments which one you prefer.</p><p></p><p>Whichever blog you decide to follow, I hope you find your way back here for the
next post. In the meantime, whatever you’re sewing, whatever you’re
sewing it with, embrace your creativity and have fun!</p>
<p>Thanks for reading! Bye for now.</p>
<p>Olly</p><p>As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through using the Amazon links that I include on my blogs and on my YouTube channel. </p><p></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-85024419025812624192023-07-20T11:55:00.003-07:002023-07-20T11:57:12.909-07:00Quilt Show Trekking Across the USA<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Hi all</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I've been quilting for a while now but last year, 2022, was the first time I attended a quilt show. Well, it turned out to be three quilt shows. All in the same month pretty much.</span><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The first was a relatively new outdoor quilt show in a town about two hours away from me. I wasn't sure what to expect but the talent on show, even in the basic quilts, was simply amazing. </span><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1nH1EpDTtE-46zLTZNDVkN4HeA4kPTSa55U2gvm4G4WyTFKKvwZ2pOYB2tgEiCWO1xLB4EDGq77j3L4X3hKMln9_5LX-Ar29cxwX7GPu8rJdr6VXD-0o13zDS48oG1UWiQsiZLfsI__6KJRRYYn-NYCDQ8WxpFO1DP_lAoiePuD5y_UEKM408yEJcQ/s640/DSCN8785.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1nH1EpDTtE-46zLTZNDVkN4HeA4kPTSa55U2gvm4G4WyTFKKvwZ2pOYB2tgEiCWO1xLB4EDGq77j3L4X3hKMln9_5LX-Ar29cxwX7GPu8rJdr6VXD-0o13zDS48oG1UWiQsiZLfsI__6KJRRYYn-NYCDQ8WxpFO1DP_lAoiePuD5y_UEKM408yEJcQ/s320/DSCN8785.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBHDiyUtqRml_07FJsKXqV1Umcts_Sadu4-aE0b9YHVWqN-GkNNmXdJUFUxlrKlKmAAZYxl4DDOiEAhlf3LmRoIcTvr8_sjsimuE_wlXWX4VDDYey3hNBbg93iYGxHzoj_SaUXbUaF0GiIzm8nZKOsGMd_U2CdKsd0H6e-8mTQSC7UxV788Ezq2zu2Q/s640/DSCN8802.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBHDiyUtqRml_07FJsKXqV1Umcts_Sadu4-aE0b9YHVWqN-GkNNmXdJUFUxlrKlKmAAZYxl4DDOiEAhlf3LmRoIcTvr8_sjsimuE_wlXWX4VDDYey3hNBbg93iYGxHzoj_SaUXbUaF0GiIzm8nZKOsGMd_U2CdKsd0H6e-8mTQSC7UxV788Ezq2zu2Q/s320/DSCN8802.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I even managed to find a new friend for my sewing area. A Singer 99 from 1926. In need of a little TLC, she has become a welcome addition to my vintage sewing machine collection. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFyg72dgilsFyS6ntHnotSVMhJmf_5UNsjtzq2rJypLmoM-_gJzsbl9lhITtypMMzEx3lecyf_pkLjTTFfq32Dl8VmfhLVNrqHllHLUotG3t9inivXgzBmNDRx76mh8ozWw0270eCp-2AMilhDEHtsDctb9v9tLIdnFjsdBeUGQB9iBfmUQY8utshxg/s640/DSCN8817.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivFyg72dgilsFyS6ntHnotSVMhJmf_5UNsjtzq2rJypLmoM-_gJzsbl9lhITtypMMzEx3lecyf_pkLjTTFfq32Dl8VmfhLVNrqHllHLUotG3t9inivXgzBmNDRx76mh8ozWw0270eCp-2AMilhDEHtsDctb9v9tLIdnFjsdBeUGQB9iBfmUQY8utshxg/s320/DSCN8817.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuh82yE9nJse2-PtU3ObhrgUYRTsscnYjr5mUyPvO8XW8jTkFB7STiM8jqkOkOnJIlRvLPk1Y9LOM1rxWLfJaNinbNzrN3dmc5JYqKFHyM0C5OQoim61pfphibjqiZ9XV4M2P_eq29K4gIC72sJgCl8GaZp2oSnarICj58RUpYEYniinesG4SiRc32w/s640/DSCN8801.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuh82yE9nJse2-PtU3ObhrgUYRTsscnYjr5mUyPvO8XW8jTkFB7STiM8jqkOkOnJIlRvLPk1Y9LOM1rxWLfJaNinbNzrN3dmc5JYqKFHyM0C5OQoim61pfphibjqiZ9XV4M2P_eq29K4gIC72sJgCl8GaZp2oSnarICj58RUpYEYniinesG4SiRc32w/s320/DSCN8801.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I thought this quilt was adorable. The little cat reminded me so much of my own two little monsters. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OPNKmfEvChTTPFlRyEyC3G44qejbNxXjfM1a4gqoWP1i4CI0rhiJK0IwDSLfqTqIeUKD3YcEab7rBsPblOs2-0ktKZmrAdFRqJY-pLv2Ao-lGaN_RepWpnoRAtUoNFcdc4hruskWEzB5F_UHHddBAeV9RDRdD_NlG5_M7_xpDbZwLnVgiiw24PvjKw/s640/DSCN8821.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1OPNKmfEvChTTPFlRyEyC3G44qejbNxXjfM1a4gqoWP1i4CI0rhiJK0IwDSLfqTqIeUKD3YcEab7rBsPblOs2-0ktKZmrAdFRqJY-pLv2Ao-lGaN_RepWpnoRAtUoNFcdc4hruskWEzB5F_UHHddBAeV9RDRdD_NlG5_M7_xpDbZwLnVgiiw24PvjKw/s320/DSCN8821.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As a fan of the Sunbonnet Sue block, this quilt made me smile too!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The next was in the closest metropolis to me. It was a lot bigger and was held in a convention center. I didn't think it was possible to get so many quilts all in one area. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhj2M4DQHbcK0XDEvFcr6dRYiNyc0B6kEQaSeWtUn5J7KmZj6N8ViR9wD8Fy0Kn7Dy9Fj5u4RR2_Cyrt-3O-gLDXuweNKqxwg0UB7eV4XlPcIAkeVLPfAjFRxUvqvwx7_k2E0J2Jy6SfHqe3u40ikVOY9eqb3-J6KZhlT8w8bgQkduAEaqX52FktQGA/s640/DSCN8916.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhj2M4DQHbcK0XDEvFcr6dRYiNyc0B6kEQaSeWtUn5J7KmZj6N8ViR9wD8Fy0Kn7Dy9Fj5u4RR2_Cyrt-3O-gLDXuweNKqxwg0UB7eV4XlPcIAkeVLPfAjFRxUvqvwx7_k2E0J2Jy6SfHqe3u40ikVOY9eqb3-J6KZhlT8w8bgQkduAEaqX52FktQGA/s320/DSCN8916.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">I found this humerus is a fitting title for the cat with a bone! I was chuckling all the way around the show after seeing this one! </span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIcJ1y3MGsDuuzQlOb6EHDbQu-qF21Av5kmMiQqJZ28BlZmCE9NB13K_8Oz_PmGCCO_Yglt4lNsQRT__x2XMYD7KK-Xga8iCH249KxgaAipWDvTnlML01Drh-3eUipWGkrvzdQepCcf4coYhH7lvQksjPkgtxqGNETuLO5lLs26b5L2L9KumuXBwVqA/s640/DSCN8903.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDIcJ1y3MGsDuuzQlOb6EHDbQu-qF21Av5kmMiQqJZ28BlZmCE9NB13K_8Oz_PmGCCO_Yglt4lNsQRT__x2XMYD7KK-Xga8iCH249KxgaAipWDvTnlML01Drh-3eUipWGkrvzdQepCcf4coYhH7lvQksjPkgtxqGNETuLO5lLs26b5L2L9KumuXBwVqA/s320/DSCN8903.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">More Sunbonnets! Yay! :D</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQcCOnMjArY3BbeyNmW1w_e1KZeJiFXlBBkmtzANUs7NDB0CUug5fkQ-5-9uO_wlPbnin59BccSOo4oH138RHM0SUJWP7zdjdI6LiwaGvYyfW3SDhqeom-90GZxhKLQQ-zyVYqOX8djTbk0AsMFfr2peVkLaS5LuKhQXBSyRTZ3aW2NL_0evgTRGNxg/s640/DSCN8901.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQcCOnMjArY3BbeyNmW1w_e1KZeJiFXlBBkmtzANUs7NDB0CUug5fkQ-5-9uO_wlPbnin59BccSOo4oH138RHM0SUJWP7zdjdI6LiwaGvYyfW3SDhqeom-90GZxhKLQQ-zyVYqOX8djTbk0AsMFfr2peVkLaS5LuKhQXBSyRTZ3aW2NL_0evgTRGNxg/s320/DSCN8901.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It was a fantastic show... even if some of the quilts were starting to look familiar.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">There was a sewing machine at this one too, only this one didn't make it home with me.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Qlew7vTlYMv5hJ3P-w8M7bqMpxYb-UcqasvfQdfFQgFd9kRBtZ9uK0zHJh_gYvIgAF9WTTMXZOSt0U0bzuEjMn3hWK5XUdjNwXtsx5oAri8prLB-QzsBOln_gAP8BTO8r2z6S0NgJdW0p71lHvnymJHAV6AevrnMmb5Rjv39ybkeA-bNhCczWBzQpw/s640/DSCN8878.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Qlew7vTlYMv5hJ3P-w8M7bqMpxYb-UcqasvfQdfFQgFd9kRBtZ9uK0zHJh_gYvIgAF9WTTMXZOSt0U0bzuEjMn3hWK5XUdjNwXtsx5oAri8prLB-QzsBOln_gAP8BTO8r2z6S0NgJdW0p71lHvnymJHAV6AevrnMmb5Rjv39ybkeA-bNhCczWBzQpw/s320/DSCN8878.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6OHOASs0ByzdBi6uLMCvk2k-EW2x0K1VvPEwvneHHmvy1IQ5_zlPX-G7qZPfKIbnTLE0Hpb0HLXid4j92SQSOzU5eEz9McRuZ0l00i2icDWpDqayM9hnIm5bhwrBZH9KsIxOYWks0cmVOFav-9u63XpO6zOS0zTMUsPhBIv6qC_VNDOFfqq_v8p3ZQ/s640/DSCN8868.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6OHOASs0ByzdBi6uLMCvk2k-EW2x0K1VvPEwvneHHmvy1IQ5_zlPX-G7qZPfKIbnTLE0Hpb0HLXid4j92SQSOzU5eEz9McRuZ0l00i2icDWpDqayM9hnIm5bhwrBZH9KsIxOYWks0cmVOFav-9u63XpO6zOS0zTMUsPhBIv6qC_VNDOFfqq_v8p3ZQ/s320/DSCN8868.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This was possibly the saddest exhibit at the show. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Apparently,
it was entered into the wrong category and was disqualified... bit
harsh... couldn't the mistake have been rectified? </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I'm sure the quilter
made an honest mistake but to be dismissed so abruptly... they must have
been devastated. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I didn't take any photos of the third quilt show. It was held at a local college and the quilts were of a more personal nature. To take photos would have been an intrusion. Or at least that's how I felt at the time. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Anyway, you're probably wondering why I went to three quilt shows in as many weeks. Well, it was all because of Sisters. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Sisters is a small city in Oregon. Every year they hold the largest outdoor quilt show in the world. I have been wanting to go to that quilt show for years. Unfortunately, I've always been too far away so, going to three slightly closer quilt shows was my way of easing the disappointment of missing Sisters yet again. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This year was different! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The 48th annual Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show 2023 had a newbie attendee this year. I got to go to Sisters! To say I was delighted is an understatement. I was tickled pink. Even if going meant staying in a tent. On a campsite without proper washing facilities and a hole in the ground for a toilet. Accommodation - decent accommodation - sells out quick for the Sisters Quilt weekend! </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I even entered the Quilt Block competition: <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRURYhm8OIIb5k9jd7CT81DcAtmkNid8g8WjQcjsxmo72fMvpkcoMm28dHlHYCTQi3Y5CgG5x_1zDo-skE5ExK53wsH8yBH5Rc-yg0rjjW-sysoVWMjDUXwBxcvimHlHKRqonVHye6l_0SrC4QfvAVXUP-gfq22_cUNEc9F_Nkc9miLDyMoVbxf2HQRA/s580/Quilt%20Block.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="580" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRURYhm8OIIb5k9jd7CT81DcAtmkNid8g8WjQcjsxmo72fMvpkcoMm28dHlHYCTQi3Y5CgG5x_1zDo-skE5ExK53wsH8yBH5Rc-yg0rjjW-sysoVWMjDUXwBxcvimHlHKRqonVHye6l_0SrC4QfvAVXUP-gfq22_cUNEc9F_Nkc9miLDyMoVbxf2HQRA/s320/Quilt%20Block.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> My first ever entry into any quilt competition. No, I didn't win. The standards of the other blocks were way higher than my newbie talents could match. But it was Sisters and taking part, seeing my block on display with the others... gave me quite a buzz.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">To see more of the amazing quilts on show at the 48th annual Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show 2023, check out my video. I hope you enjoy watching it as much as I enjoyed attending! Hopefully, fingers crossed I'll see you at next years show! <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HeeZkrFWNsU" width="320" youtube-src-id="HeeZkrFWNsU"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">As
an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a referral fee on any qualified sales made
using the Amazon links shared in this blog. This doesn't cost you any extra but does help
support me and my channel. </span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" color="rgba(6,95,212,1.000)"></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Like my blog? Help support me and my channel: </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Donate to: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" color="rgba(6,95,212,1.000)"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbnRiWkw5aGZiY0Njb1RhV0twVG43Y2psRTRJQXxBQ3Jtc0ttRTktTEh5QUlkZ2V3NlZ1cEtzanVYQTNlTDVuQXU3Wko2LVlkNU5pQ3RRRDMyWlA5ZV9YQ0NBX0kwQktmLXV5MGZaR21oa2hVaXd1TVVHU2lBYjBkaXY0aDJzY09keEMtdWo5VDc4ZG9qNmtSRGl4NA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fko-fi.com%2Fsimplystitchy&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://ko-fi.com/simplystitchy</a></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Follow Simply Stitchy on Social Media: </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Facebook: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" color="rgba(6,95,212,1.000)"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbl96eXJaaF9OR0JUdGNGNmNhc3VSa0dIQ1lMZ3xBQ3Jtc0trRFRac3JjaTJZaHJOdFdQNzQ3NUpSSG52bnY0V19DM3EyMGVkNzloTVBDOXFzWkIyMEJ5NGlLUWU4N29Ka1MyX3VTUHV4VWRybVdFRW1nUWc4YTc3Q21XeDQyTE54UmpuYlhqRWtkSVdteFE1QnR3VQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOlwenWhite&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/OlwenWhite</a></span> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Twitter: @olwenwhite </span></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Instagram: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" color="rgba(6,95,212,1.000)"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa044SEQyRGVSbEliWHBZQ0t6OE9LRHFDRmNlZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttdFRPbWdDVGMyazVBRmpZMUpveTRIdjh0c2wzLV9hY241WXVScFdKYzVZQVlRT0I1djVzSm90VGRXZkJoMkx4Nl9UNjlab1VVQ0RRYzJjTVdJU3lEVUVhblU1bF9hX3RjWTRZdW5Dc3pkNTNkRmJQOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2FSimplyStitchy%2F&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/SimplyStitchy/</a></span></span></span><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /><br /></span></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-39894500381744374872023-05-23T11:52:00.003-07:002023-05-23T11:52:42.656-07:00Using a Bakelite Sewing Pedal on a Vintage Singer 66<p> Hi all</p><p>I don't come across items made from bakelite very often. Apart from two bakelite sewing machine pedals, the only other bakelite item I own is a <a href="https://simplythimbles.blogspot.com/2010/10/bakelite.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bakelite thimble</a>. </p><p>At one time, bakelite was everywhere. From door knobs to telephones. As the world's first foray into the world of plastic, it found it's way into all aspects of life. I think it peaked in the late 1950s and then slowly fell out of favour through the 60s and into the 70s as the new and improved plastics came into play. </p><p>Anyway, I have two sewing machines that came with a bakelite foot pedal. One is the Singer 301 and the other is the latest addition to my sewing machine collection. The Singer 66. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnVcx8e-GqA5s27gFTRtqFZ_VMwfu4VQmoV0i8rVxpKBIFcEGndZczyFSBEZJCr-zC6YqjNVan1ojbo_hL9ZeTzLoEFKU09fwr-lkph6w4axWgUm7rU9Ql683Md3FcVeJLLz88O10Eb59ecfvpRTf_ZTynWTUQoClHqYceaHEKp9yh8YBscDHZAM/s640/DSC_0703sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnVcx8e-GqA5s27gFTRtqFZ_VMwfu4VQmoV0i8rVxpKBIFcEGndZczyFSBEZJCr-zC6YqjNVan1ojbo_hL9ZeTzLoEFKU09fwr-lkph6w4axWgUm7rU9Ql683Md3FcVeJLLz88O10Eb59ecfvpRTf_ZTynWTUQoClHqYceaHEKp9yh8YBscDHZAM/s320/DSC_0703sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />This type of pedal can be found on sewing machines from around the 1930s through to the 1950s. My 301 dates to around 1954 and my 66 is from 1949. So they fall neatly into that date range. Although it's most often associated with Singer, some other brands also used this type of pedal. Necchi used the pedal on some of their Supernova range.<br /></p><p>You'll find the bakelite pedal is particularly common on Singer's Featherweight series of machines. Which explains why some people know this pedal as the Featherweight pedal. </p><p>Although the foot pedal on my Singer 66 is an original, I have had to <a href="https://youtu.be/E5rOX9XoRdk">replace the wiring</a> to it. </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnCl5bbTsOpXRnxGFOdffC7uMFQnySwCkTzrDm2jHuqYMAmLynzZJHiCNR6RPHS8rFyKAEoOyAxSlQSB3LDtESq-K6F9vrStWXiUpuwncxVlUSn5gGoVl4yBV1M9W2rzAa3Q9zNvSXoOjYI4rt1CZDuLOr3m9gmYQk4zvSulubYZp8UmPjGQp-Vo/s640/DSCN8989%20sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnCl5bbTsOpXRnxGFOdffC7uMFQnySwCkTzrDm2jHuqYMAmLynzZJHiCNR6RPHS8rFyKAEoOyAxSlQSB3LDtESq-K6F9vrStWXiUpuwncxVlUSn5gGoVl4yBV1M9W2rzAa3Q9zNvSXoOjYI4rt1CZDuLOr3m9gmYQk4zvSulubYZp8UmPjGQp-Vo/s320/DSCN8989%20sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Quite chunky and incredibly solid, the pedal is heavier than modern day equivalents. That's not the only difference. This pedal doesn't work in the same way as the wedge shaped foot controllers we use on modern sewing machines. </p><p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OgaE9Pn5GJ8865H-ZzsMFhebw4z0lIPDkEJGev9IrcujlDF6YvzcOv2S7pd-wuEqFtaOuFYqh21XfwT3gXQXTZflDuYLKO9SFyC81OpMWkB2bp2tB6hP227C1EVtS2MqGESzK20sRsSbuH837WddxzY9d53hjfdxqARNuZswkNwc1IkHsZdLmXc/s5568/DSC_0701%20sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5568" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OgaE9Pn5GJ8865H-ZzsMFhebw4z0lIPDkEJGev9IrcujlDF6YvzcOv2S7pd-wuEqFtaOuFYqh21XfwT3gXQXTZflDuYLKO9SFyC81OpMWkB2bp2tB6hP227C1EVtS2MqGESzK20sRsSbuH837WddxzY9d53hjfdxqARNuZswkNwc1IkHsZdLmXc/s320/DSC_0701%20sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by Olwen White<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>Unlike modern pedals, the body of the bakelite pedal doesn't move. Instead, you power the machine by pushing one of the two buttons found at one end of the pedal. The button on the left is just a block. It doesn't do anything. Power comes from the button on the right. <br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdkNRPm5LICubp_BvofeTKe8aM0qx2BjbVgnW0ryrQWIVbHZNWyC4cf5c5zt2nFJ3vftqPALv7eISsEMmBZY8dQO8EEEyKFg9gOJpBE3zyni68lL_tI5UmIGQwCBRmm5nxKVHeZcMmwf-eTvU4cYDxIkecCATg24cAZu_Qi40-swC4mr5pmQ9Mio/s4896/DSCN8990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdkNRPm5LICubp_BvofeTKe8aM0qx2BjbVgnW0ryrQWIVbHZNWyC4cf5c5zt2nFJ3vftqPALv7eISsEMmBZY8dQO8EEEyKFg9gOJpBE3zyni68lL_tI5UmIGQwCBRmm5nxKVHeZcMmwf-eTvU4cYDxIkecCATg24cAZu_Qi40-swC4mr5pmQ9Mio/s320/DSCN8990.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I've got to be honest, I'm not really a fan of this style of pedal. It's not an easy device to use. In fact, there are at least 4 different ways to operate it. Which can be confusing... and more than a little counterintuitive. It's little wonder that this pedal style is no longer found on modern machines!</p><p>In my latest YouTube video, I demonstrate 4 of the more popular methods that can be used to work this pedal. Why not check it out by clicking the image below. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="349" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WgXX_VZqFAQ" width="420" youtube-src-id="WgXX_VZqFAQ"></iframe></div><br /><p>Don't forget to like the video so I know you dropped by and why not let me know in the comments if you've used a bakelite pedal and how you got on with it. </p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly</p><p><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">As
an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a referral fee on any qualified sales made
using the Amazon links shared in this blog. This doesn't cost you any extra but does help
support me and my channel. </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Like my blog? Help support me and my channel: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Donate to: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbnRiWkw5aGZiY0Njb1RhV0twVG43Y2psRTRJQXxBQ3Jtc0ttRTktTEh5QUlkZ2V3NlZ1cEtzanVYQTNlTDVuQXU3Wko2LVlkNU5pQ3RRRDMyWlA5ZV9YQ0NBX0kwQktmLXV5MGZaR21oa2hVaXd1TVVHU2lBYjBkaXY0aDJzY09keEMtdWo5VDc4ZG9qNmtSRGl4NA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fko-fi.com%2Fsimplystitchy&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://ko-fi.com/simplystitchy</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Follow Simply Stitchy on Social Media: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Facebook: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbl96eXJaaF9OR0JUdGNGNmNhc3VSa0dIQ1lMZ3xBQ3Jtc0trRFRac3JjaTJZaHJOdFdQNzQ3NUpSSG52bnY0V19DM3EyMGVkNzloTVBDOXFzWkIyMEJ5NGlLUWU4N29Ka1MyX3VTUHV4VWRybVdFRW1nUWc4YTc3Q21XeDQyTE54UmpuYlhqRWtkSVdteFE1QnR3VQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOlwenWhite&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/OlwenWhite</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Twitter: @olwenwhite </span></div><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Instagram: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa044SEQyRGVSbEliWHBZQ0t6OE9LRHFDRmNlZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttdFRPbWdDVGMyazVBRmpZMUpveTRIdjh0c2wzLV9hY241WXVScFdKYzVZQVlRT0I1djVzSm90VGRXZkJoMkx4Nl9UNjlab1VVQ0RRYzJjTVdJU3lEVUVhblU1bF9hX3RjWTRZdW5Dc3pkNTNkRmJQOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2FSimplyStitchy%2F&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/SimplyStitchy/</a></span></span><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-5805485099876380172023-05-15T11:51:00.004-07:002023-05-15T11:51:57.051-07:00Cracking the Code: A Guide to Reading Sewing Machine Needle Packets<p>Hi all,</p><p>Sewing machine needles come in a whole host of different styles and sizes. It can be a bit of a challenge to choose the right one for your project. Especially as the information on the packet is written in code...</p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYDzcM0AwNWUdOf_mk22zn_pH2AieGGYbqmGyMhRcpVbebVWvsLksbb932zBfohlEvp4TuXYe3qbAFgv6nPHKzQ3-qQGF0QkmM2_0DtWxYOZvzUcbWuTYd-TscbbINNkhzZvPLbxofHwjS_oy4Gl5IZz3uk6kkG8_e4OZQOvKhxrKkEP-mFs0XTA/s640/DSCN8968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYDzcM0AwNWUdOf_mk22zn_pH2AieGGYbqmGyMhRcpVbebVWvsLksbb932zBfohlEvp4TuXYe3qbAFgv6nPHKzQ3-qQGF0QkmM2_0DtWxYOZvzUcbWuTYd-TscbbINNkhzZvPLbxofHwjS_oy4Gl5IZz3uk6kkG8_e4OZQOvKhxrKkEP-mFs0XTA/s320/DSCN8968.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Picture of Schmetz Needles by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>In my latest YouTube Video, I show you how to decode the information on your sewing machine needle packet! Simply and easily! Better still, there's a link in the video description to a handy pocket guide that you can keep in your sewing area! <br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ra5pUDfGjkQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="ra5pUDfGjkQ"></iframe></div><p>The video isn't sponsored but I did reach out to Schmetz Needles to ask permission to use their images. Thanks Schmetz for allowing me to do so! </p><p>Enjoy the video and let me know in the comments if the information helps you choose the right sewing machine needle for your project! <br /></p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly<br /></p><p><br /></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-76893049765005224142023-04-20T16:20:00.001-07:002023-04-20T16:20:11.064-07:00Welcome the Summer With a Sunshine Placemat<p> Hi all,</p><p>Finding an old yellow gingham tablecloth at my local thrift store inspired me to think of summer projects! What better way to brighten up a home after an incredibly long winter... and a chilly spring... than a nice summery yellow?</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYn6JV2wBJBT-NWS8BQEByI5QVZbFNt0KsXqPDQihQ7c7etiG_7733VZU2Ftwg-RRPA8C0DnGlfYJUO8uF9M0esVRiEoDht1vID7k9iSxNZrw0UstasOFTAdiON5Fm2w_QF0QIpLpaHOniIAbLv1W4vsK-d4d4AhTiydPE-jb-fJxitoVsOsW6X_o/s640/DSC_0477sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYn6JV2wBJBT-NWS8BQEByI5QVZbFNt0KsXqPDQihQ7c7etiG_7733VZU2Ftwg-RRPA8C0DnGlfYJUO8uF9M0esVRiEoDht1vID7k9iSxNZrw0UstasOFTAdiON5Fm2w_QF0QIpLpaHOniIAbLv1W4vsK-d4d4AhTiydPE-jb-fJxitoVsOsW6X_o/s320/DSC_0477sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p> I decided to use the yellow tablecloth as a background for a Half Dresden Plate applique design. After a quick internet search, I found these cute fat quarters from Singer. They don't just make sewing machines you know! They also have a cute range of fabrics!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6KzlCgTIiprNB6N_T7xIYFCm9Z_mjQsbU1ixwOK4FXG-KGdhEHPH4htQ_uF7yPo1L7LM0sEynDsSjY-tRd7SHOXEL8f_E4kSusNO3WHbLAgiyRmUFFdstyyNAbTmWTCqyf7bSFL2H8k0NEyswCiZkROAJqHGRsKhFwHcSNZQCPg9ow3Pfc6hFAk/s640/DSC_0371sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6KzlCgTIiprNB6N_T7xIYFCm9Z_mjQsbU1ixwOK4FXG-KGdhEHPH4htQ_uF7yPo1L7LM0sEynDsSjY-tRd7SHOXEL8f_E4kSusNO3WHbLAgiyRmUFFdstyyNAbTmWTCqyf7bSFL2H8k0NEyswCiZkROAJqHGRsKhFwHcSNZQCPg9ow3Pfc6hFAk/s320/DSC_0371sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEu6NsHksFakFvnMI2B4D_PQHBeuKK1QAk5wNBIRvjIBtt9YqfhZOysJ9Q-iNKeLitGCO-NcLrvHiYWvgUhXdZ71Db7Fjutj7sM9VX2olJLFDHVZt5-MmV6lSXSF4BRJhUif4VLB2hboHBG9cSn8yMhDsxNlrFZJ86Ewp7IoLRREEHyxcSwWQPerc/s640/DSC_0372sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEu6NsHksFakFvnMI2B4D_PQHBeuKK1QAk5wNBIRvjIBtt9YqfhZOysJ9Q-iNKeLitGCO-NcLrvHiYWvgUhXdZ71Db7Fjutj7sM9VX2olJLFDHVZt5-MmV6lSXSF4BRJhUif4VLB2hboHBG9cSn8yMhDsxNlrFZJ86Ewp7IoLRREEHyxcSwWQPerc/s320/DSC_0372sized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>As soon as I saw the butterfly fabric, I knew it would make the perfect center piece for my Half Dresden. </p><p>Find out how I made the placemats in my latest video:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="391" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/49d8QgXn3ek" width="470" youtube-src-id="49d8QgXn3ek"></iframe></div><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">Why don't you have a go at making a summery placemat for your home? Let me know how you get on in the comments and leave a picture for me over on instragram using the hashtag #Simplystitchyplacemats. I'd love to see your version!</p><p style="text-align: left;">You can use any fabric - new, scraps or anything from your existing stash. It's best to stick with 100% cotton if you can, but polycotton is fine if you can't find anything else. Try to keep it to below 60% polyester though... and watch the heat on your iron! Polycotton can melt! </p><p style="text-align: left;">If you use Insulbrite as the batting - be sure to double it up with a piece of ordinary batting. Although Insulbrite is heat resistant - it is prone to condensation. Which can make your placemats soggy. Normal batting added to the sandwich will soak that up!</p><p style="text-align: left;">Bye for now <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">Olly </p><p><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">As
an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a referral fee on any qualified sales made
using the Amazon links shared in this blog. This doesn't cost you any extra but does help
support me and my channel. </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Like my blog? Help support me and my channel: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Donate to: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbnRiWkw5aGZiY0Njb1RhV0twVG43Y2psRTRJQXxBQ3Jtc0ttRTktTEh5QUlkZ2V3NlZ1cEtzanVYQTNlTDVuQXU3Wko2LVlkNU5pQ3RRRDMyWlA5ZV9YQ0NBX0kwQktmLXV5MGZaR21oa2hVaXd1TVVHU2lBYjBkaXY0aDJzY09keEMtdWo5VDc4ZG9qNmtSRGl4NA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fko-fi.com%2Fsimplystitchy&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://ko-fi.com/simplystitchy</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Follow Simply Stitchy on Social Media: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Facebook: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbl96eXJaaF9OR0JUdGNGNmNhc3VSa0dIQ1lMZ3xBQ3Jtc0trRFRac3JjaTJZaHJOdFdQNzQ3NUpSSG52bnY0V19DM3EyMGVkNzloTVBDOXFzWkIyMEJ5NGlLUWU4N29Ka1MyX3VTUHV4VWRybVdFRW1nUWc4YTc3Q21XeDQyTE54UmpuYlhqRWtkSVdteFE1QnR3VQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOlwenWhite&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/OlwenWhite</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Twitter: @olwenwhite </span></div><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Instagram: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa044SEQyRGVSbEliWHBZQ0t6OE9LRHFDRmNlZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttdFRPbWdDVGMyazVBRmpZMUpveTRIdjh0c2wzLV9hY241WXVScFdKYzVZQVlRT0I1djVzSm90VGRXZkJoMkx4Nl9UNjlab1VVQ0RRYzJjTVdJU3lEVUVhblU1bF9hX3RjWTRZdW5Dc3pkNTNkRmJQOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2FSimplyStitchy%2F&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/SimplyStitchy/</a></span></span><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">For a full list of supplies - check out these links:</h3><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Daisy Daydream Singer Fabric 100% Cotton 5 Fat Quarters
<span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/41IFW8v">https://amzn.to/41IFW8v</a></u></span></span> </p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">Daisy & Lemon Singer Fabric 100% Cotton 5 Fat Quarters
<span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3Lh0n76">https://amzn.to/3Lh0n76</a> </u></span></span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">iNee Gingham Fat Quarters 100% Cotton Fat Quarters
<span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u>https://amzn.to/3H0T9l4</u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Bias Binding Tape <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3H0g6F3">https://amzn.to/3H0g6F3</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Insulbrite Thermal Batting <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3N8eQDE">https://amzn.to/3N8eQDE</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Warm & Natural Cotton Batting <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/41sYtWW">https://amzn.to/41sYtWW</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Sewing Machine Thread <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3N0gk35">https://amzn.to/3N0gk35</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
EZ Dresden Quilt Tool Set <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3LiEO64">https://amzn.to/3LiEO64</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Rotary Cutter Set <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/41HAyCE">https://amzn.to/41HAyCE</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Fusible Web <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/40uGhuu">https://amzn.to/40uGhuu</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Spray Starch <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3UR5K02">https://amzn.to/3UR5K02</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Pur Steam Iron <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3optzQt">https://amzn.to/3optzQt</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;">
Brother Sewing Machine <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/40qJM59">https://amzn.to/40qJM59</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;"> <br /></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-46213101797387886752023-03-24T11:26:00.000-07:002023-03-24T11:26:11.145-07:00How to Move Abroad and Take Your Sewing Machine With You!<p> </p><p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iPljZQCXXkY16bNrjZ2yqWAdr6oXqE72yTvy7tMXD-lKp0EKXOtuZhsOdHKYmLEqg6m-crmyh-UE67dz07Syl322qN2MC7Y8DNhIkVEh1wUWueYttJVjPhTcHCsERAy_QfeiGVt8luk1axoMxaZV1PWsZ_fVwGZqE_CPHjLxqnT5kwGh-Rg44U0/s5568/DSC_0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5568" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8iPljZQCXXkY16bNrjZ2yqWAdr6oXqE72yTvy7tMXD-lKp0EKXOtuZhsOdHKYmLEqg6m-crmyh-UE67dz07Syl322qN2MC7Y8DNhIkVEh1wUWueYttJVjPhTcHCsERAy_QfeiGVt8luk1axoMxaZV1PWsZ_fVwGZqE_CPHjLxqnT5kwGh-Rg44U0/s320/DSC_0243.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image (c) Olwen White 2023<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></p><p>Hi all, </p><p>Many of us get attached to our sewing machines. They become our sewing buddies. We get to know them and their quirks... and they get to know how to push our buttons too! </p><p>But the thing is, for many of us faced with the life-changing adventure of moving to a new country, it can be hard to say goodbye to our faithful sewing companions. </p><p></p><p>Electrical appliances tend to have a motor that is suitable for use in the country you live in. Although some have dual voltage, like hair straighteners and travel irons, many don't. </p><p>It's easy to take a dual voltage device with you when you travel. With a range that spans 110 volts to 240 volts, you can use a dual voltage electrical item pretty much anywhere in the world. Well, as long as there is a mains socket to plug it into. <br /></p><p>As electrical outlets differ from country to country, you'll find that the style of plug will change depending on where you are heading. All you need to overcome that hurdle, is a travel adapter. </p><p><br /></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivqNqTOs3jWmGyQw-0RCJLa7ifNvwQRIv7tFLwP4rDT4A70OiDWJVrq-OvuSgTJcZ3sBWvRsqFr7--SjRqut88NbOElhd6xUcE85LGOFKyGoZEyhUND1cHRVf6tOzWcefLM2AuzBZshSqcxKKsPINK074q2z90gCAe7OCfYPEhn-lREFm9zC9uU0/s1155/51O0qwbzYGL._AC_SL1166_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1155" data-original-width="1116" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivqNqTOs3jWmGyQw-0RCJLa7ifNvwQRIv7tFLwP4rDT4A70OiDWJVrq-OvuSgTJcZ3sBWvRsqFr7--SjRqut88NbOElhd6xUcE85LGOFKyGoZEyhUND1cHRVf6tOzWcefLM2AuzBZshSqcxKKsPINK074q2z90gCAe7OCfYPEhn-lREFm9zC9uU0/s320/51O0qwbzYGL._AC_SL1166_.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://amzn.to/42GEiFK" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ceptics World Travel Adapter</a> <br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </p><p>For longer stays, you can even swap out the plug on your item. That can be useful sometimes... particularly if your like me and keep losing your adapter!<br /></p><p>Unfortunately, your less portable items like televisions, washing machines, tumble dryers, and your favourite sewing machine don't tend to be dual voltage. They aren't the kind of things you'd normally pack to go on a world sightseeing trip so they don't need to be. </p><p>Although things are changing and more and more electrical items are going down the dual voltage route, many older products are restricted to one of two systems. Either 110-120 volts (60HTZ) like the US, Canada, and many parts of South America. Or 220-240 volts (50HTZ) like the UK, Europe, Australia, and many other parts of the world. <br /></p><p>Jerome, my Janome QC6260 is a UK powered sewing machine. He was made for the UK power system which is 230 volts. I was gutted at the thought of leaving him behind when I moved to the USA. The US is on a 110 volt system which is a lower voltage. Jerome would be unable to work properly. He would be struggling to get enough juice. </p><p> </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLbIuqkJWBCjuzllVAJWp1gu4wIzrIjoR9GU979sqaFJmPpd-WWhfSMyRnsjYp-ZjpZdn_pUFwP-ed316KSISv-TUshjcCymdqxSw1pWml7NDS511fFdVTNJl5tgdD9JtQMkmIX9Np2yhGVkquUgVxixX1YAGHnUWtBf4uVW8-9fU-VBH_DXTsWE/s5568/DSC_0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3712" data-original-width="5568" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLbIuqkJWBCjuzllVAJWp1gu4wIzrIjoR9GU979sqaFJmPpd-WWhfSMyRnsjYp-ZjpZdn_pUFwP-ed316KSISv-TUshjcCymdqxSw1pWml7NDS511fFdVTNJl5tgdD9JtQMkmIX9Np2yhGVkquUgVxixX1YAGHnUWtBf4uVW8-9fU-VBH_DXTsWE/s320/DSC_0243.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image (c) Olwen White 2023<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p>The good news, for me and you if you're planning to make the move to a new country, is you don't have to leave your sewing machine behind. </p><p>You can get one of these:</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NBQ0qwMmBScMteSQQ53LKzi4lPZEashLXQY6koH9RzB8QwZNMmU7az2iSSWapscpQWZ2QQ4ixcp2HUeiobmyA8vOJmrhk-Ur44pVwEEqFJxh2S84M8NHRhjeTSuOXteiZkj3iJchGagOLfcZaYeaBq-NuuBGYAIK7rMrZfXYA0CLP-0sOisRp8k/s1500/81CZiI2mJ8L._AC_SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="1500" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1NBQ0qwMmBScMteSQQ53LKzi4lPZEashLXQY6koH9RzB8QwZNMmU7az2iSSWapscpQWZ2QQ4ixcp2HUeiobmyA8vOJmrhk-Ur44pVwEEqFJxh2S84M8NHRhjeTSuOXteiZkj3iJchGagOLfcZaYeaBq-NuuBGYAIK7rMrZfXYA0CLP-0sOisRp8k/s320/81CZiI2mJ8L._AC_SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3K6GKyg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pyle Step Up Step Down Converter: https://amzn.to/3K6GKyg</a></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p></p><p>It's a step up step down transformer. And it converts the 110 volt power supply in the US to the 230 volts I need to power my UK Janome sewing machine! I get to use my sewing machine and Jerome gets to stay with me. It's a win-win!</p><p>I've put an Amazon link to a step up step down converter under the image. But, there is one more thing you need to know before you buy one for your sewing machine. There is more to electricity than volts. You also have to consider watts. </p><p>These converters come in a range of different watts. The one I have is 500 watts. Check your electrical information on your sewing machine. There should be a label close to where you insert the mains cable. It will tell you the wattage of your item. Make sure the transformer you choose has a wattage that is higher than your sewing machine!</p><p>So if your sewing machine is 400 watts, for instance, go for a 500 watt transformer. If it's 550 watts, go for the next size up which is 1000 watts. </p><p>For more information on step up step down converters, why not check out my video on Youtube:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J-xCRW5pIgY" width="320" youtube-src-id="J-xCRW5pIgY"></iframe></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">As
an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a referral fee on any qualified sales made
using the Amazon links shared in this blog. This doesn't cost you any extra but does help
support me and my channel. Links can be found under the product images. <br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Like my blog? Help support me and my channel:
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Especially if you are purchasing your thread online and can't see or feel the quality, or more importantly, the weight. </p><p>You see, your thread weight needs to match the fabric that you want to sew. A heavy thread on a delicate material like silk is going to drag your project down and potentially damage the fabric. While a lightweight thread used to sew denim is a recipe for disaster. The thread won't take the punishment and will break. Leaving your seams gaping and your sewing project in tatters. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzypJT9N5xs-T89SN3AZNfpJLVEikDLPbLBFlw-W4XSSwqx--TBfo0E9pRz6ExbcUO6yRfvHBrqDeXtc9CrQFfzS1jh_VQKyvus7_Ntaa2EzS1r8pf7B6_9bFDZawpHIoYjKdsfICr4uC7-7DODElRkqmlrjxFvBORr8gx8Fke9W24PLTxKK-uYk/s640/DSCN8950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzypJT9N5xs-T89SN3AZNfpJLVEikDLPbLBFlw-W4XSSwqx--TBfo0E9pRz6ExbcUO6yRfvHBrqDeXtc9CrQFfzS1jh_VQKyvus7_Ntaa2EzS1r8pf7B6_9bFDZawpHIoYjKdsfICr4uC7-7DODElRkqmlrjxFvBORr8gx8Fke9W24PLTxKK-uYk/s320/DSCN8950.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Different Thread Types - Image by Olwen White</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">How Do You Choose Threads? <br /></h3><p>There are so many different brands, styles of reel, and weights to choose from, it can be difficult to tell which one you need. So much so that it could leave you feeling bewildered and confused. </p><p>The first thing to remember when choosing thread is the most important reason you're looking for the thread in the first place. Your project. </p><p>If you keep your project in mind when you go thread shopping, it will make it easier for you to pick the right one. Think about the finished item and ask yourself four questions: <br /></p><p>1. What will the sewing project be used for? </p><p>2. How often will it be washed? </p><p>3. Will you be using a heavy fabric or a lightweight material? </p><p>4. Is the fabric made from a natural fiber or a synthetic one?</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSsRNNGhNqjxQD9G5xvT3rpD8_dl4YasDAnTGh6MeaKRz9maAe611vvLu5q8EseCy81tkskrKnj5pmKiutRJKaU95x2OL8iQs5FE2HYzPGKTVtGmPxPq0-Z8n2lYV1NrcxKoivIjIP6bhB8-MiLGQonfuMGiVjkTW6qpyF8YJp77D_actuu8Gv0I/s640/seamstress-4073022_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSsRNNGhNqjxQD9G5xvT3rpD8_dl4YasDAnTGh6MeaKRz9maAe611vvLu5q8EseCy81tkskrKnj5pmKiutRJKaU95x2OL8iQs5FE2HYzPGKTVtGmPxPq0-Z8n2lYV1NrcxKoivIjIP6bhB8-MiLGQonfuMGiVjkTW6qpyF8YJp77D_actuu8Gv0I/s320/seamstress-4073022_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Image By Mystic Art Design From Pixabay<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Let's try a few examples of different sewing projects to see how these four questions can help you choose the right thread weight. </p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Example 1: Repurposing an Old Pair of Jeans into a Denim Bag.</h4><p>OK, so the first thing you need to identify is the material. You're going to be using denim. One of the heaviest cottons you can get. Even with some synthetic lycra content, it's still has a fairly chunky weave. Denim needs a mid to heavy weight thread. </p><p>An All Purpose thread or a specific Jeans thread. Aim for a polyester based thread if your denim has a high stretch content. <br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Example 2: Making a Silk Scarf <br /></h4><p>For a project using a luxury textile like silk, you'll need to steer clear of the thread you used for your denim bag. Silk needs a gentle touch, so you'll need to choose a lighter weight of thread. </p><p>A silk thread would be ideal for this type of project. Not only does it match the fabric, but it's both strong and delicate and will enhance your project rather than swamp it. </p><p></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Example 3: Making Your Own Swimwear<br /></h4><p></p><p>Swimwear needs a synthetic fabric like nylon or polyester. It needs a lot of stretch and has to be waterproof. You really don't want to use a fabric that sucks water up like a sponge. </p><p>Because of this, you'll need to choose a thread that is both waterproof and stretchy enough to move with the fabric. Natural fiber threads like cotton or linen are not a good choice for this type of project. They'll absorb the water. But worse, they'll break as soon as you put the seams under too much pressure. </p><p>What you need is a synthetic thread that is both robust and flexible. Nylon and polyester threads are the perfect match for swimwear. </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">What to Look For at the Thread Store<br /></h3><p>So far we've looked at a general overview of how to choose the right thread weight for your sewing project. But knowing the theory is only half the story. You also need to know what the thread looks like.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjte3tghFoexTmcHJkP9hcod3fScMoIsYYa-9n9XlUTQp40UaFGbVtmPup41E_B7V83svf5EXq3MTRVYRMok5Sl6P_TUq3TsF-fGfeAnMym1BCqnnB1eyIyPYG-GYX7F6f3u0XTh5jD3iXpF7DpdtK2IN_fCzOeSFZmDeoh1-GpUew8VGvoqxlwqw/s2000/20230214_174228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1126" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjte3tghFoexTmcHJkP9hcod3fScMoIsYYa-9n9XlUTQp40UaFGbVtmPup41E_B7V83svf5EXq3MTRVYRMok5Sl6P_TUq3TsF-fGfeAnMym1BCqnnB1eyIyPYG-GYX7F6f3u0XTh5jD3iXpF7DpdtK2IN_fCzOeSFZmDeoh1-GpUew8VGvoqxlwqw/s320/20230214_174228.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Typical Thread Display at a Fabric Store<br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>The picture above is from the thread display at my local fabric store. It is categorized into different sewing activities. When you go shopping for thread, allow yourself to be guided by those categories. They will help you decide which thread weight, or rather thread type you should choose. </p><p>Here are the headings you'll probably see as part of your local store's fabric display:</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">All Purpose</h4><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">This is the one that will probably take up most of the space in the thread section of your local fabric store. All Purpose, or Sew All thread, is the most popular and well-used thread you can get. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">It's a mid weight thread that you can use for any mid or heavy weight project. Suitable for both hand and machine sewing, it's usually polyester or a polyester blend. This thread can cope with clothing seams, quilting, edge stitching, and even machine embroidery. </span><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Quilting</h4><p style="text-align: left;">Quilting thread is usually 100% cotton. The cotton used tends to be high quality and it comes it two different types. Machine quilting thread and hand quilting thread. The main difference between the two is hand quilting thread has a special coating to help it glide through the fabric easier. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBN12GRTdZ4LsF8EEht8-39U-6tE-145pn6-SBA6CKxliuVhzQorxM-1Blw5LOWZIneROg7V_vOSuVJGN9OiYtMsB7DrtLw3WEpuklJFaskq1Qy1ivpRLVzMf0oD0AUdWftYCY01uVfpZaSD8W5VncaxVLyoFC4OLaXvaYVHisdLNeXqF8QBaobtg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBN12GRTdZ4LsF8EEht8-39U-6tE-145pn6-SBA6CKxliuVhzQorxM-1Blw5LOWZIneROg7V_vOSuVJGN9OiYtMsB7DrtLw3WEpuklJFaskq1Qy1ivpRLVzMf0oD0AUdWftYCY01uVfpZaSD8W5VncaxVLyoFC4OLaXvaYVHisdLNeXqF8QBaobtg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Image by Eszter Miller From Pixabay</span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p style="text-align: left;">Thread specifically designed for quilting comes in three weights. Lightweight, mid, and heavy. Each weight gives a different effect to the finished quilt top. A heavyweight or thicker thread gives the design and extra pop while a lighter choice will be more subtle. </p><h4 style="text-align: left;"></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">Embroidery</h4><p style="text-align: left;">This thread can be either polyester or rayon. Both options give a lightweight thread suitable for embellishments or decorative stitches. Again, you can get two types. One for hand embroidery and one for machine embroidery. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNz5h2thtuquN2Xy3DjZVxIH9KA3TGpjfMQFcOl1pMfz6cu9Fkf6Xf6p2jUzDLtCIpPlKZO5jJSQ_EgKsni2ZGeXcXiivAUccmcOUSK_PNro2RMLbXhQfKTWhOYKc_ZOb6jeC2e_KXF9n3nShYvGkPf-KIyuNkFLLVpTWP9KwBgNHURCcs8l1uhns/s640/embroidery-2937593_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNz5h2thtuquN2Xy3DjZVxIH9KA3TGpjfMQFcOl1pMfz6cu9Fkf6Xf6p2jUzDLtCIpPlKZO5jJSQ_EgKsni2ZGeXcXiivAUccmcOUSK_PNro2RMLbXhQfKTWhOYKc_ZOb6jeC2e_KXF9n3nShYvGkPf-KIyuNkFLLVpTWP9KwBgNHURCcs8l1uhns/s320/embroidery-2937593_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Image by Kateryna From Pixabay <br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table> </p><p style="text-align: left;">Embroidery thread isn't strong enough for the construction of seams. But it can be used for delicate hems or other areas that don't need to be put under pressure or strain. Most embroidery thread has a luxurious sheen designed to make your embroidery stand out and look amazing. <br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Overlocker/Serger</h4><p style="text-align: left;">The thread used with overlockers or sergers is very similar in weight to all purpose thread. There are a couple of differences though. This thread comes on cones rather than spools. Cones can hold more thread. As overlockers use a lot of thread, the larger cones allow more sewing and less spool changing!</p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><p style="text-align: left;">Another difference is the heat-resistant coating. Overlockers and sergers generate more friction as they work so the thread has a special finish to counteract that. This thread also tends to be a little thinner so that overlocked seams are flatter and bulk-free. <br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Top Stitch</h4><p style="text-align: left;">More robust than embroidery thread, top stitch thread is used to add definition and stability to seams and edges. Think decorative detailing on shirt collars, for instance. Not only does the thread hold the collar edges in place, but it also adds a decorative finish. The orange detailing on denim jeans is made using top stitch thread. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Strong and slightly thicker than all purpose thread, this thread is used in areas where hiding structural stitching just isn't possible. Instead, it helps you make a feature out of it! The whole point of a top stitch thread is to make your projects pop.</p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Silk or Rayon</h4><p style="text-align: left;">Silk and rayon are both strong but lightweight threads that can be used with delicate fabrics. Or for areas where you don't want the stitching to show. These threads are ideal for French seams or rolled hems on silk or chiffon fabrics.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Equally suitable for hand or machine sewing, you can use silk and rayon for embroidery, embellishments, and detail work. <br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"></h4><p>To learn more about thread weights, check out my latest YouTube Video:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="391" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sBPf1aD2CIY" width="471" youtube-src-id="sBPf1aD2CIY"></iframe></div><p><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"></span></p><p><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn a referral fee on any qualified sales made using Amazon links. This doesn't cost you any extra but does help support me and my channel. </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Aurifil 50WT Thread 3-Pack <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXZCUXUtZkROak0zT2wxclNNTDNHeWlJeUNrd3xBQ3Jtc0tra3JXb1UtUTUyVTNtRVROWF94aU9ZSmpQZFduZ3J6Y29hVnNBUWpRNGZGTlg2dW1lZnU2cnF4NVNUUjdNZWNaNlBUNm00MmVIWXVhNjRxY3RQX21OZ1VoQjBSRms0dkdJNTgwUFgwTWt6LTNYNmJpbw&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F40S85dA&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/40S85dA</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Brothread Machine Embroidery Thread: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbkdHY1dzc2xLX081aEVYM2ZRNUx1VldTakRFUXxBQ3Jtc0tra09WdjdHeV9RU2lfNUhwS3pZWDBHSl9nd3hyWFVlanBCa3RfcVBreHdITHRVaGxxVm1INGpsTFdLd05NTHFQc050dE8tR2UyRHBUaGVWSWRyVkNDR0tSLXJJd1FKVzJlZzdjVi0xaTFoNUpiSXloUQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3YoO4di&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3YoO4di</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Serger/Overlocker Thread: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa2lpb3RLVjJZR01zVUNZX1Bwak11a1A0bmw2d3xBQ3Jtc0trSUVBX25UR1YwcWlBTEhYX1RkY0tITHJ6SHViakVXTVVHSS1rQ1lySFFGeUIzcjhCTkIwek53WkYxcWVUd3hCcW05WjJrZU1icEJQcVFIcTk4dVNmanhJWTNQOG93TWx6Wko1Skl5NUJHem5JQ0Naaw&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3YNxzY3&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3YNxzY3</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">All Purpose Thread: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbG9yeU1DZ0lhVVBFZEh3bDlGLU5UY2s3TEdQd3xBQ3Jtc0ttOV9HeHpFTmFNMUlWckRFbzBmNF9zU0ZxSnkwTVJIZGxwd1hYLUMweG9TbzRNUC14VTFqbEFKSTl2cnktWFQwdzFSelNvX0kyTVU4MjIweFQ0SDJTdDRyTnZrX2J0eWpzZzROdjRLdkFlOE9zT21ESQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3IiJnvI&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3IiJnvI</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Jeans or Top Stitching Thread: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXF1RzNkaHI0b29nNmFhcmp1VDM0NWZXNWMwd3xBQ3Jtc0tsM0c1ZEl6VnVuWm9MaTZQOEVxZ2FzMFJTZlF6SmFKNmJLeTF1ek10aWc3QWQzU1Z0Y2I5YVRyb2EzVEEwYnBHU2ItaUlINWxfekM4ajJkOUpYMFJtR0o5VExuTFo3WkZQZTRXbkFuejVKYjZsdGI5cw&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3XoO4sj&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3XoO4sj</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Mettler Silk Finish Cotton Thread: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXhCSTdMNTdsb0tBampKSFRQVmJaY2M1VjRSUXxBQ3Jtc0tsOGdRRWZkdlVwTWU2cTUwRzZkSkJPU3FmVjJQbjVoRlVrYUdwSlItYUQ2UHNfc0IycXVyYmY3NWw5Ri1udmpudkNsRlJMX0VUTnRraXNZY1hjdEdBNlM5dGJtMnptc2dhUmNOU3dqdHpqUURDU0pGRQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3XG3MiI&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3XG3MiI</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Schmetz Combo Sewing Machine Needle Pack (universal & twin Needles): <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbnpsbXEyMlRiOUFDYVBGX2FHeGw3VUxvcHE2QXxBQ3Jtc0trUXRyUVdtTXF1RFFjVXVTYW5ncld4RE5kLU1RaUNFZ1kwTHc3Vl9sRWhBYkNndGM1dUMzRDZNMk5pVEhud0owdFkwTnNPemFzUUlPYmRpUndsU0FjLXVSR3JZd1daTzhoY1NId3NiZjNIdGpaejcxTQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3fNiaBO&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3fNiaBO</a></span>
Schmetz Twin Needles Universal: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa19YVmdncEQ0VktzUjQ0VTNCblpON0VucTNpUXxBQ3Jtc0trNzZ3Y1ZqVXZORnFfYzFyLUFtVVJtZEhyR3YwTnpzRHQ3cDNhT2pLcktvZGxsU2N3YTVDRXRYUzR6Sm41eFZSWEk0VVZSQzBMV2laYXB4UlJCMUJYdEZaS0U3bDEwWXY0Z3VEcGxMRXpvanAzekhtTQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2KllNTI&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/2KllNTI</a></span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Schmetz Twin Needles Stretch: <span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"><a class="yt-core-attributed-string__link yt-core-attributed-string__link--display-type yt-core-attributed-string__link--call-to-action-color" href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbjRfMVBwekNrNk85UV9LbnBIQnA3RFBZWXZyd3xBQ3Jtc0trb2dheElxNGRjSlgxZjhsU0RCTVZZekxUSWJPLVdESnVyR0hxbTNUMjFWbEJ2eWI0SkIybF9GUzZuRWkxY09RLUdLS0oyd1hmc1I0Mi1IZ2hsQ1hkSzEzaWthZDNxM3N2Q3Fhb04yTC13YnFEU0xiMA&q=https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3oU5oUH&v=sBPf1aD2CIY" rel="nofollow" tabindex="0" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3oU5oUH</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string--link-inherit-color" style="color: rgba(6,95,212,1.000);"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="yt-core-attributed-string yt-core-attributed-string--white-space-pre-wrap">Like my blog? Help support me and my channel:
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<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Quilting looks
complicated. There’s no denying that. From the intricate designs to
the dictionary full of terms, anagrams, and techniques. Starting to
quilt as a beginner, can feel daunting. Particularly, when you hit
the brick wall known as the Quilt Police.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZMmBE5LHNRy_CWP97zTmKjFBFt_bECjBPmEp-6-lN8A2rycaAxDSJbQdihXv5GL6NwsoFQ4fkYJ7woYnBWOF5hsCY1S_ItXuokDK2OWC5FABTEjiC9yh4Skj6Y-j_hPbf-tv-boyy729I38baL8Woz4Iz_2It1ErBTLtVr_wZ4FjgqiCJSFGHXk/s640/DSCN8921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheZMmBE5LHNRy_CWP97zTmKjFBFt_bECjBPmEp-6-lN8A2rycaAxDSJbQdihXv5GL6NwsoFQ4fkYJ7woYnBWOF5hsCY1S_ItXuokDK2OWC5FABTEjiC9yh4Skj6Y-j_hPbf-tv-boyy729I38baL8Woz4Iz_2It1ErBTLtVr_wZ4FjgqiCJSFGHXk/s320/DSCN8921.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you’ve never
heard of the Quilt Police, it is a band of experienced quilters who
will tell you there is a set way to quilt. With rules to follow. And
woe betide you if you break any.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">From how to quilt,
what fabric to use, to something as silly as the size of your
stitches. Then there are the traditionalists who believe that a real
quilt can’t be made on a sewing machine. To qualify as a quilt they
must be hand-pieced and hand-quilted.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Talk about sapping
any enthusiasm you ever had for being creative. It can leave you
feeling more than a little discouraged.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Now, before I go any
further, sometimes, the rules are there for a reason. Pressing your
seams to the dark side is one. By that I mean pressing the seam
allowance so it falls behind a dark color… so it doesn’t show up
on the front of your quilt. But, it isn’t compulsory to do that.
It’s personal preference.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When I first started
quilting, the Quilt Police were a force to be reckoned with. They
were everywhere. Thankfully, these days, they are less prolific.
Which is good news for us modern quilters.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">With modern quilting
anything goes. I openly encourage you to embrace your creativity and
have fun. So much so, that’s how I sign off on all my YouTube
videos. If you want to follow the traditional rules then that’s
great! If you want to do your own thing, that’s even better.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I’m not here to
tell you how you must quilt. My aim is to show you a possible way to
quilt. Simply and easily. With my Cheater’s Guide to Quilting video
series, you’ll discover hints, tips, and “cheats” along the way.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">All designed to make
your quilting a breeze. So join me as I sew a quilt from scratch.
Using cheat number 1, a quilt kit. Follow the link below to the first installment in my
Cheating With Quilting video series.
</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
</p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CTAXZrrfA3o" width="320" youtube-src-id="CTAXZrrfA3o"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Looking forward to
seeing you there!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>For
more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </b></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
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Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-77124661670332568132022-12-27T11:03:00.003-08:002023-03-19T09:40:51.892-07:00Jelly Roll Racing on a Singer 27<p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> Hi all,</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I'm always surprised by the reaction I get when I tell people I quilt. It's either a mixture of awe and wonder. Or they are totally flabbergasted. Followed by questions like these:<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">"That's complicated isn't it?" or, "I could never do that." And even, "Wow! You bought a yard of fabric to cut it into little bits... then stitch it back together? Why would you do that?" </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The thing is, quilting doesn't have to be complicated. Nor does it have to involve stitching tiny snippets of fabric together. In today's video I'm going to show you how to make a quilt top using nothing but a Jelly Roll. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">A Jelly Roll is what's known as pre-cut fabric. It's usually made up of 42 strips of 2.5inch wide fabric. Each strip is the width of the fabric from selvedge to selvedge. Which for quilting is usually between 42 and 45 inches long. <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">So come on over to my YouTube Channel and sew a Jelly Roll Race Quilt with me! Find out why it's called a Jelly Roll Race Quilt, and discover just how easy making a quilt top can be. <br /></span></p><p> <br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yltXCMnCb2M" width="320" youtube-src-id="yltXCMnCb2M"></iframe></div><p> </p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more videos like this, don't forget to subscribe to my Youtube Channel!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">See you in the next video!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span><br /></p><p></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-91732823572626414652022-12-15T16:15:00.002-08:002023-03-19T09:42:08.458-07:004x4 Hoop Embroidery Machines: Are They Worth Having?<p><span style="font-size: medium;">Hi all</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I've been test driving a new sewing machine. Its the Brother SE625. A sewing and embroidery combination machine with a 4x4 hoop.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Now, I've been looking at getting an embroidery machine for some time. But, there have been a lot of negative comments about 4x4 hoops. The main one being, they are too small. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Well, when this one came up at a reduced price earlier this year, I thought, what the heck. Let's give it a go and see if 4x4 hoops really deserve all the bad press.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Find out how I got on in this video:</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CEpROsFgpcM" width="320" youtube-src-id="CEpROsFgpcM"></iframe></div><br /><p>Bye for now </p><p></p><p>Olly<br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This
article may contain Amazon associate links. I may earn a referral fee
for any purchases made via these links. This does not cost you any
extra, and there’s no obligation to use the links. Although, they do
help support me and this blog. </span></span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. </span></span></i></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Twitter</a></span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Facebook</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Instagram</a> </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">YouTube</a></span></span></p><p></p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-75084480522330934612022-02-12T17:19:00.003-08:002022-11-14T13:42:07.729-08:00From Jeans to Apron in 120 Minutes<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> Hi all </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A few weeks ago, well more like a month, I saw a post on my Facebook feed for upcycling denim jeans. The post gave a link to a free tutorial for making a denim apron. Always keen to reuse, repurpose and recycle, I thought I’d give it a go. </span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYfer_Uc1eU81zlVfkG3X9qHngxJ7NgJEk-zVoI8xeaUk-zIiHDVDIZzwf1NutnZuyEPntECE_tw_TrgZD7h6Ar5kIIYqh9zzuHRjYaY5cVdxc6T2mDNISNt93FDN15BHyFi7XE0moXVPngbuZl1SVc-2LXRW-b37YAjh8_qc80urQC8KE0mkwg3s=s320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The ruffle around the base of the apron</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This post is my review of that tutorial. It was designed by Carissa Bonham for CreativeGreenLiving.com and is called the Farm Girl Apron Tutorial. I'll leave a link to it further down in this post. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In theory, turning some old jeans into something new and practical sounds like a great idea. In practice, it should also be a good thing to do. I was hoping for a useful, repurposed apron. What I got was frustration and annoyance. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The link in the Facebook feed sends you to a blog post. Nothing wrong with that, I use Facebook to link to my blog all the time. My issue with this particular blog was the tutorial isn’t all on the same page. You have to continually “click here” to be taken to a new page. Every time you reach a new step.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">It got tiresome and old. Real quick. The first page tells you she has a downloadable pattern you can buy, the second is just supplies. You’re on to page 3 before you start the tutorial, and even then, it's only to tell you to cut the legs of the jeans off. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In a bad mood before I started, I should have known this wasn’t going to end well. </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Now, I know clicking on to new pages earns revenue for the writer. But still, did it have to be so often?</span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Anyway, I ventured on. It’s a relatively straight forward project. Cut the legs off your jeans so you’re left with the top section. Use the bottom part of the legs to make the bib, so you can keep the original hem. Grab some contrasting fabric for the ruffle and straps and hey presto! </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">You have an apron.</span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjgWPigfOztaNx5O1k7WVnBfPHyUlEtwTtgrAYiAWHJpRZ4nDAK5HjWhez3zqdhbPrf2eDd_rw2__8kisNJVbt3oSoSl_cauWB_ROe5H64g7WP6ELftx6Cg4DQrW7KhU2SOW-UDUXMgdDcBJNXHXdWC311DWdO0CWXgc31-2ySQqcZRwHjEa23nUao=s320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Cutting the legs off my boot cut jeans</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">My first issue came from the jeans. I was using boot cut which meant the legs were too wide. Even after I’d chopped them down a bit. The denim was obviously a little heavier than the jeans the designer used. They had an unsightly sag at the top of the bib. </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZpvHozEmXz7wdXaVsFlEJG94D6k5awl9F-kUHw3YlAfXh3WWAUgfElCI-uMw71t7Jfqf2GKC9mKArDddtY6K283pY7IvFN7dLvrs9VwZVwzw5q-sXArXiihZjo8Epr3K8AwrE_aj4YT6cV7BscqVo7ac7wT8smtiiwWfMP-vG5oXH5-v_pY_EH64=s320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Saggy Bibs - not a good look!</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> In an attempt to reduce weight at the top of the bib, instead of having a straight edge, I curved it a little bit. It didn’t help. Although the sag reduced slightly, it’s still there for all to see. Right where you don’t want any sagging. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">So much so, I had to move the straps from the edge of the bib to the middle of each side, just to hold the bib up! And it still sagged!</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The second peeve, was the binding used to make the bib straps and to bind the edges. Instructed to cut these at a width of 1 inch, I did so.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you’ve ever made your own bias binding, or any binding, you’ll know how fiddly it can be to fold over the edges and press them down with your iron. Especially, if like me, you don’t have a <a href="https://amzn.to/3TvyM32" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bias binding maker</a>. The thing is, you need to fold the long edges inwards to stop them fraying.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">So there I was, folding the edges inwards, holding them down with my fingers, and pressing with my iron. And yes, that was mostly my fingers getting pressed and not the binding.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Attaching the binding to the bib was my next turn-the-air-blue moment. Well, more like thirty moments if I’m honest. It took way too long. The strip of fabric was just way too thin to be able to manipulate it around the bib.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Trust me, if you want to have a go at making your own jeans apron, make sure to cut the binding at 1.5 inches wide. That extra half an inch will give you enough fabric to turn under ¼ inch on the front and back… a lot easier! And a lot less painful! If you do want to have a go at the project, click<a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"> here for the link</a>.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Having finished the project, putting the hassle to one side, I can’t in all honesty say I enjoyed the process. I don’t even like the finished item.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Even with the straps at the top moved in closer to the center, it still sags. I think it needs thicker straps to hold the weight of the denim better.</span></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjy8x0DX5hXT_R9xBqbXPjkgTBwLD_VkJkxiK40veou9oNkVF6uZIJ6IkZRA6LFTunfUXNW6tuWjuTsvx0uCnNv9Tkb95Nr6TJFjY1_fEnakFOGZPCoZNJftDFgiEDlhaECSj7c95Q1DLtTnNeyIFqmSxgjh9p1MizQPRzQtt3p6Dem5M57bqZJd1c=s320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Grandma, My Singer 27 Treadle from 1912 - Sewing Denim!</span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In fact, the only thing I am really pleased with on this project, was the way Grandma simply flew through the denim like a knife through butter. Even when she was sewing through the thick parts where the leg seam meets the waistband. She didn’t bat an eyelid! Bless her! </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span></span></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This article may contain Amazon associate links. I may earn a referral fee for any purchases made via these links. This does not cost you any extra, and there’s no obligation to use the links. Although, they do help support me and this blog. </span></span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. </span></span></i></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Twitter</a></span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Facebook</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Instagram</a> </span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">YouTube</a></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p><span style="font-family: times;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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</span></span>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-86129100875368241082021-12-24T11:06:00.009-08:002021-12-26T08:25:53.762-08:00Using Fusible Web for Applique<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikkHVkhCyoUd0U_6IRtt3-rOntzK16PDC1FeUFD0jXotLQ5PmrMeDomr-wqa12kiSygQsarfTkM1DCYPNUcq5n82sCKSCPMRHq_D5pXBN9POgaxyuoweHOr4PfhkQW13YNBpY1FboXysYrJMNmJmUzXQ1Os6__H7uEpwWSJqmRcppHuHzsZWXGsD0=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikkHVkhCyoUd0U_6IRtt3-rOntzK16PDC1FeUFD0jXotLQ5PmrMeDomr-wqa12kiSygQsarfTkM1DCYPNUcq5n82sCKSCPMRHq_D5pXBN9POgaxyuoweHOr4PfhkQW13YNBpY1FboXysYrJMNmJmUzXQ1Os6__H7uEpwWSJqmRcppHuHzsZWXGsD0=w482-h271" width="482" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Hi all</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I was hit with a sudden impulse to do some applique last weekend. The inspiration came from a free pattern landing in my inbox. It's for a Christmas table runner. So, I thought I'd give it a go. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It's called "It's a Gnome Christmas Table Runner" and you can find it<a href="https://bit.ly/3E3w79b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here.</a> </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhgOcU78ujHTp_YMrTbfMJovvlYBiW7gIpB9CBnOy_YrxuHs_F7XOXVx60p1v3u2RXFEtTawYcvXGOb9_xjAdydmRAzwhTTFylJSbQJWVT-UOm7sWR2lDghCXtlfTb9wA5su7GCw5I6-8jTXEZ-L9-J5aR7FmV1ljMyynfMIcz9CAyOOuqRUVswNw=s650" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="650" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhgOcU78ujHTp_YMrTbfMJovvlYBiW7gIpB9CBnOy_YrxuHs_F7XOXVx60p1v3u2RXFEtTawYcvXGOb9_xjAdydmRAzwhTTFylJSbQJWVT-UOm7sWR2lDghCXtlfTb9wA5su7GCw5I6-8jTXEZ-L9-J5aR7FmV1ljMyynfMIcz9CAyOOuqRUVswNw=w372-h172" width="372" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Only thing is today is Christmas Eve and I'm no where near finished yet. But, then I knew when the applique buzz hit me, I wouldn't get it done in time for this Christmas. That's not going to stop me making it - there's always next year's table.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Anyway, my normal applique method is needle turn. This is where you turn the fabric edge of the applique underneath as you sew it to the backing fabric. I normally pop a safety pin or two in to hold it still, and then just keep it in place with my fingers as I sew.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This time, I thought I'd try Wonder Under. It's just one of the many fusible webs available for gluing fabric together. You can buy fusible web from any fabric retailer on and offline. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This is the product I used:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://bit.ly/3E3w79b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pellon 805 Wonder-Under Interfacing</a> <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiM3wN7UmdjYMx5jbjvKPM-vWjtrsXNIVUodgd3gPvBncl6YiTNbqy2ecblgXkYw4pPtlru3eJqZScqe4mXpxQMm2TooygPp5V2A7jumihk506PWsn2sHXJNZkmPgqCzFQ8ITfMO3ZCTEvqp0Oo7rvKJrO_Zv6GSrrHf8-nkWMSdR0ewnmy7gXUEoo=s480" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="67" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiM3wN7UmdjYMx5jbjvKPM-vWjtrsXNIVUodgd3gPvBncl6YiTNbqy2ecblgXkYw4pPtlru3eJqZScqe4mXpxQMm2TooygPp5V2A7jumihk506PWsn2sHXJNZkmPgqCzFQ8ITfMO3ZCTEvqp0Oo7rvKJrO_Zv6GSrrHf8-nkWMSdR0ewnmy7gXUEoo=s320" width="45" /></a></span></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Although the product did stitch the pieces to the fabric, it was fiddly to use. Peeling the backing fabric off can be tricky. Especially if the Wonder Under is close to the edge of the applique. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I also managed to use it incorrectly. You're supposed to iron a large piece of the fusible web to your applique fabric before you cut the pieces out. I cut them out first which is probably why I ended up in a bit of a pickle. I lost count of the number of times the product stuck to things it wasn't supposed to. Like the cutting board and my iron. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">You can see how I got on over on youtube. Here are links to the two videos in the How to Applique Using Wonder Under series. <br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="398" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x5TFaNF88QM" width="479" youtube-src-id="x5TFaNF88QM"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="387" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EKgCusWscbM" width="465" youtube-src-id="EKgCusWscbM"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the next videos, I'll be sewing the shapes to the backing fabric and showing you how to make a quilt sandwich. So make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel to keep up.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In the meantime, have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"></span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"></span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"></span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"></span></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Useful Quilting Tools:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3FtI6y4 ">Honey's Heaven Rotary Cutter Set</a><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgci3QHgMfSZ8TgwNvw_6YIlB_lWLcBHzk1vZ5WCRZeotppV1MtmPrtPbPEv_LWH747V6PD08Gis6uUEa48UD6Fp0fg6LpG59VD9Mc5EokjFaCUjw5BftHHW6bbhGe26CtTyqdpWj_WVXzsAswNIU-2f-0x_3qAxlnmxo9RkiPB0QpS7w43Xb973YI=s499" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="499" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgci3QHgMfSZ8TgwNvw_6YIlB_lWLcBHzk1vZ5WCRZeotppV1MtmPrtPbPEv_LWH747V6PD08Gis6uUEa48UD6Fp0fg6LpG59VD9Mc5EokjFaCUjw5BftHHW6bbhGe26CtTyqdpWj_WVXzsAswNIU-2f-0x_3qAxlnmxo9RkiPB0QpS7w43Xb973YI=w67-h64" width="67" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3yT6Ygt"> QuiltCut UltraGrid Quilting Rulers</a><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFvAf37qRa-mQtnwxlLEO7X3o3BGMBv2DR6iEooghxY2Up6lQtuhsHOms3sxzQLylUsh9KEZ3Vk1xoSBdx4yV_bXfn_pCtt170h5trcLBYCNdvnTtc3bTk6peDAR3dwxzqaEBXaneN6p7_0g2o7PcxpZMNDVIOs9zH2hWaGPcELxzKnujVoYANbDU=s553" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="553" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFvAf37qRa-mQtnwxlLEO7X3o3BGMBv2DR6iEooghxY2Up6lQtuhsHOms3sxzQLylUsh9KEZ3Vk1xoSBdx4yV_bXfn_pCtt170h5trcLBYCNdvnTtc3bTk6peDAR3dwxzqaEBXaneN6p7_0g2o7PcxpZMNDVIOs9zH2hWaGPcELxzKnujVoYANbDU=w84-h73" width="84" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3pmq1N0">Fiskars Rotary Cutter</a><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTNP6labTufTtaoanutUsSKtGpUG0KkoXSZfWIIliXLRw035995BFjSAnyjjpS3qqhOm0T1Syl-hhJ_ZFqtYZYYmJHNJ8Jybtd7b9CEE70HroMkpVfwQANdHiEA0O5l_C6MCb5VeAyGE9Ijh8xIWPWV-n3MDnWV9nQgs3mUfZnY6WwjGhDEd6GklE=s480" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="204" height="87" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTNP6labTufTtaoanutUsSKtGpUG0KkoXSZfWIIliXLRw035995BFjSAnyjjpS3qqhOm0T1Syl-hhJ_ZFqtYZYYmJHNJ8Jybtd7b9CEE70HroMkpVfwQANdHiEA0O5l_C6MCb5VeAyGE9Ijh8xIWPWV-n3MDnWV9nQgs3mUfZnY6WwjGhDEd6GklE=w37-h87" width="37" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3enuXuw "><span style="font-size: medium;">Fiskars Rotary Cutting Set </span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgeB2npGuKwl7puTjlg2hbzvve-U7C1Ys6DvMU-5iNSJVTBzvrm1alctoBRLaf85EtHSUOjxoZIMjUbtHQLy9njVUAuc6q8Wyp-KYIrL8UCI2u3eIXlBy7kqv5OwWfjxvAHLWErlNu0DsQZOyvwn6iyNvfVujhwvisK-nZD-e9o1buT1GzCcvbIPaw=s557" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="557" height="80" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgeB2npGuKwl7puTjlg2hbzvve-U7C1Ys6DvMU-5iNSJVTBzvrm1alctoBRLaf85EtHSUOjxoZIMjUbtHQLy9njVUAuc6q8Wyp-KYIrL8UCI2u3eIXlBy7kqv5OwWfjxvAHLWErlNu0DsQZOyvwn6iyNvfVujhwvisK-nZD-e9o1buT1GzCcvbIPaw=w93-h80" width="93" /></a></div><br /> </span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <a href="https://amzn.to/3e651DI"> Clover Point 2 Point Turner</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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I may earn a referral fee
for any purchases made via these links. This does not cost you any
extra, and there’s no obligation to use the links. Although, they do
help support me and this blog. <br /><br />The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p><script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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for any purchases made via these links. This does not cost you any
extra, and there’s no obligation to use the links. Although, they do
help support me and this blog. <br /><br />The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. <br /> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3><span style="font-size: large;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></h3> <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span><p><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span><br /></p> <script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-64670608230661491992021-07-06T08:34:00.002-07:002021-07-06T08:34:46.085-07:00How to Sew a Lavender Pillow <p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://youtube.com/embed/mLLUJnBXQOk" style="background-image: url(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mLLUJnBXQOk/hqdefault.jpg);" width="480"></iframe> </p><p><br /></p><p>Hi all,</p><p>I love making little lavender pillows. They are a quick and easy way to add a touch of summer to your closets and drawers. </p><p>Simple to make, you can use these pillows also make great gifts. For step by step instructions on how to make your own lavender pillow, click the video link above.</p><p>Happy sewing!</p><p>Bye for now</p><p></p><p>Olly</p><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></p><p> <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span></p><p> </p><p> </p>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-73473408100800300272021-06-22T14:39:00.003-07:002023-01-08T12:34:36.940-08:00What Features do You Really Need on Your Sewing Machine? <p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p> </p><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpLm-bursjssM5KmE6nSqQCmeVxrcJQd8r4crCClJmLBtISsa0SCMvDo9PyxjtJkgGzMZmCNU6rj05POlBjLWV_apvkbgOmViatCZp4Qtds5p9P76XM-oaX3hJskBf9rfDpQZQV-i9WrECohLFsPzMRh6cskGt02neOnfFscvZ9mSqXcbhWGb1f6k/s1280/Sewing%20Machine%20Features%204.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpLm-bursjssM5KmE6nSqQCmeVxrcJQd8r4crCClJmLBtISsa0SCMvDo9PyxjtJkgGzMZmCNU6rj05POlBjLWV_apvkbgOmViatCZp4Qtds5p9P76XM-oaX3hJskBf9rfDpQZQV-i9WrECohLFsPzMRh6cskGt02neOnfFscvZ9mSqXcbhWGb1f6k/w400-h225/Sewing%20Machine%20Features%204.png" width="400" /></a></div> <p></p><p>Hi all,</p><p>If you've been following me for a while, you'll know I have a varied interest in all things sewing. I'm not a follower of one particular type of sewing... what do you call a type of sewing? Genre? Element? Discipline? Forte? If you know, let me know in the comments. That one's going to bug me till I find out!</p><p>Anyway, because I sew anything and everything, my sewing machines have to be able to keep up and perform a multitude of tasks. Now, not all of them have everything I need, so I do tend to pick and choose which sewing machine I use by what project I'm sewing. I've even changed my sewing plans to match the sewing machine that's easiest to set up!</p><p>But what are the features and functions that you need on a sewing machine? What sewing machine should you go for if you're a beginner? If you don't know what to sew, how do you know what you need? </p><p>My latest video, What Features do You Really Need on Your Sewing Machine shows you which ones you must have, and which are optional extras. Check it out at this link:</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pLum3ioVmp0" width="320" youtube-src-id="pLum3ioVmp0"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p>
</p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"> As an Amazon affiliate I earn a commission on products purchased through these links. This doesn't cost you any extra. Amazon affliate links to the sewing machines mentioned in the video:</p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"> Singer
Simple 2263 <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3xsh4Tq">https://amzn.to/3xsh4Tq</a></u></span></span> </p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Singer
HD 4452 <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3q3B3Wa">https://amzn.to/3q3B3Wa</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Janome
HD3000 <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3vyC75n">https://amzn.to/3vyC75n</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Brother
CS6000i <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/35y5Hxy">https://amzn.to/35y5Hxy</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Janome
740DC <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/2SHmD1C">https://amzn.to/2SHmD1C</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Singer
Quantum Stylist 9960 <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/2UaVsMZ">https://amzn.to/2UaVsMZ</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Janome
MC6650 <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/35C1etm">https://amzn.to/35C1etm</a></u></span></span></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Juki
TL2020 PE <span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://amzn.to/3cYlUzU">https://amzn.to/3cYlUzU</a></u></span></span>
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">I am also an affiliate for SewingMachinesPlus.com. I earn a commission through products purchased through the following link:
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"></p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Sewingmachinesplus.com:
<span style="color: navy;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=596711&u=2630952&m=53072&urllink=&afftrack">https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=596711&u=2630952&m=53072&urllink=&afftrack</a></u></span></span>=</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">They offer free
shipping on orders over $49, and a 60 day money back guarantee. Plus a
whole host of sewing machines by other brands not covered in this
video. It's well worth checking out. Again, I’m an affiliate for sewingmachinesplus.com It doesn’t cost you anything extra to use the link, but it does support me and my channel.
</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">This next link isn’t an affiliate link as it’s only available from Janome
Dealerships:</p>
<p class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Janome
Continental M7:
https://www.janome.com/machines/sewing/continental-m7/</p>
<p>Why not subscribe to me on YouTube so you can keep up to date with videos as I upload them. Follow this <a href="https://bit.ly/3arcvR2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">link to my channel</a> and check out some of my other videos while you're there! <br /></p><p>Thanks for watching!</p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly<br /></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></p><p> <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span></p><script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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<br /><br /><br />Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-28056439992663212012021-06-15T15:56:00.003-07:002021-06-16T14:21:45.314-07:00How to Unthread a Sewing Machine #shorts #sewing #howto<p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/UVyodCG4KTk" style="background-image: url(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UVyodCG4KTk/hqdefault.jpg);" width="480"></iframe> </p><p>Hi all</p><p>As with everything in life, there's usually a right way and a wrong way to do something. This week's video is about unthreading a sewing machine.</p><p>Find out how to do so safely by clicking on my video link above. </p><p>Thanks for watching!</p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly<br /></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></p><p> <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span></p><p><script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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</script>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-43539317372176884992021-06-05T14:16:00.008-07:002021-07-14T15:36:33.822-07:00Pattern Hacking: The Queen's Gambit Check Dress #Sewing #Cosplay <p></p><p>Hi all,</p><p>This project has been keeping me busy for a while now. </p><p>It all started earlier this year when, tuning into Netflix, I saw The Queen's Gambit come up as a recommendation. </p><p>Now, I'd heard about the show last year. Friends and family said how brilliant it was. But I didn't get around to watching it until, I think it was mid-February this year. </p><p>Well, as soon as Youngest saw the check dress Beth wears, you know the one that swooshes when she walks, she was like, I need that dress!</p><p>Me being me, "no problem, I can make one of those..."</p><p>Little did I realize what I was letting myself in for!</p><p>The thing is, I've searched high and low for a pattern for the dress. It's proved to be a fruitless search. A pattern for this dress just doesn't exist. I've found some close possibilities but nothing has been spot on. I have spent an age on eBay and more than a few pennies trying to get a usable pattern.</p><p>Here are some of the ones I've looked at:</p><p>First up Vogue V2903</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF8OSmJq__A/YMpe1n0w_9I/AAAAAAAABvk/v968Zw2SHXkvOcOO6n2znYwtmGxOQxb2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s480/Screenshot_2021-02-28%2BVogue%2BVintage%2BModel%2BPattern%2BOriginal%2B1957%2BDesign%2BSize%2B12%2B14%2B16%2BV2903%2BeBay.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF8OSmJq__A/YMpe1n0w_9I/AAAAAAAABvk/v968Zw2SHXkvOcOO6n2znYwtmGxOQxb2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-28%2BVogue%2BVintage%2BModel%2BPattern%2BOriginal%2B1957%2BDesign%2BSize%2B12%2B14%2B16%2BV2903%2BeBay.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vogue V2903<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>While this one is pushed on the internet as being an exact match for the check dress Beth wears. It isn't. I go through the reasons why not in the video link below. </p><p>Here are a few more I've looked at and thought, um... nope. <br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ykZqNNoT7dc/YMpf90OxBwI/AAAAAAAABvs/qmdJZIB8d9E-c48eGNE3pslvxGf-ftzHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Butterick%2B4085.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ykZqNNoT7dc/YMpf90OxBwI/AAAAAAAABvs/qmdJZIB8d9E-c48eGNE3pslvxGf-ftzHwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Butterick%2B4085.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterick 4085<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxQiuc6TeH8/YMpgANhoIhI/AAAAAAAABvw/q873WLn2s38oXPlNqsuRJv0zjRg3gggMACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Butterick%2B6091.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lxQiuc6TeH8/YMpgANhoIhI/AAAAAAAABvw/q873WLn2s38oXPlNqsuRJv0zjRg3gggMACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Butterick%2B6091.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterick 6091<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjzEf4YayTw/YMpgCRFClPI/AAAAAAAABv0/44O0e3kfcwIh_a16gS57S0r0qRUMWM3SwCLcBGAsYHQ/s480/Dress%2Boption%2B3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjzEf4YayTw/YMpgCRFClPI/AAAAAAAABv0/44O0e3kfcwIh_a16gS57S0r0qRUMWM3SwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Dress%2Boption%2B3.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCalls 6484<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AuBdkhWbNX8/YMpgJYonR_I/AAAAAAAABv4/xxyzX9riTt8opL0SdVYorjV4iJ-vkBKgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s480/Simp%2B2646%2BFront.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AuBdkhWbNX8/YMpgJYonR_I/AAAAAAAABv4/xxyzX9riTt8opL0SdVYorjV4iJ-vkBKgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Simp%2B2646%2BFront.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 2646<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWiKgrtLrQI/YMpgTIAPT_I/AAAAAAAABwI/he95-3R4YsUpD70rBpK3NVHBS1G5iiiPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Simplicity%2B2864.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWiKgrtLrQI/YMpgTIAPT_I/AAAAAAAABwI/he95-3R4YsUpD70rBpK3NVHBS1G5iiiPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Simplicity%2B2864.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 2864<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LMhdikAA26Q/YMpgUI53NAI/AAAAAAAABwM/FwA44b5n1R0dp5WcUQexj1uXVRYkjkvpQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Vogue%2B7848.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LMhdikAA26Q/YMpgUI53NAI/AAAAAAAABwM/FwA44b5n1R0dp5WcUQexj1uXVRYkjkvpQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Vogue%2B7848.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vogue 7848<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmHCVz5EzAY/YMpgUg8iVvI/AAAAAAAABwQ/1h4cKBPWFRgmdDnSBHZcvCBgDahXzh2MACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Vogue%2B8287.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmHCVz5EzAY/YMpgUg8iVvI/AAAAAAAABwQ/1h4cKBPWFRgmdDnSBHZcvCBgDahXzh2MACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Vogue%2B8287.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vogue 8287</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>It was at this point I thought, I'm just buying patterns for the sake of it. There's only one solution. I'm going to have to draft a pattern from scratch. </p><p>Now, I've never drafted a dress pattern from scratch before. I've tweaked them, altered them and added the skirt from one to the bodice of another. But, I've never designed one from nothing.</p><p>In the end, I chickened out and decided a pattern-hack was the way to go. I would have to combine elements of the patterns above to create the look I was after. </p><p>This was either going to go really well... or end badly.</p><p>Watch my video to see how I got on and the fun I had making the first mock-up. </p><p>There are a few "Doh!" moments! </p><p>Enjoy! :D </p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly<br /></p><p> <br /></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://youtube.com/embed/1T8BieV1jvY" width="480"></iframe><script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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</p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">I
see a lot of questions online in sewing groups and forums on the
topic of the best sewing machines for beginners.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Most
of the time, the replies all gush over the longevity and reliability
of older sewing machines. Whether it is an Elna Grasshopper or a
Singer 27, their age and beauty attest to their sewing prowess.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cWuhKAMHqBM/XwedEVsXC3I/AAAAAAAABYY/jkRVFFRTJJcmFZm2KynHOnEYI5LYhzefwCPcBGAYYCw/s640/DSCN7599.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cWuhKAMHqBM/XwedEVsXC3I/AAAAAAAABYY/jkRVFFRTJJcmFZm2KynHOnEYI5LYhzefwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSCN7599.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /> </span></span><p></p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
commenters will stress the importance of a beginner using a vintage
sewing machine. Not because of how easy they are to sew with. But,
because of what they are made of.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">The
general consensus is, being mostly metal, vintage and antique sewing
machines are hardworking and will last so much longer than today’s
expensive plastic models. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Which
isn’t necessarily true.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Especially
when you remember that plastic machines have been around for over 40
years… so are just as likely to be vintage. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">The
thing is, some vintage sewing machines can be finnickity to use. I’m
thinking of Grandma here, she’s my antique treadle. She’s quirky
to use. I’ve mentioned in previous posts that she and I have had
words. Sometimes very strong, unrepeatable words. We work through it
and come to an understanding. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vsUBS2rYXTc/XwedQI-vTCI/AAAAAAAABYY/lrNh1ozfAKEZfgiLRWn-tCX2ZNYglAdlwCPcBGAYYCw/s640/Treadle%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vsUBS2rYXTc/XwedQI-vTCI/AAAAAAAABYY/lrNh1ozfAKEZfgiLRWn-tCX2ZNYglAdlwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/Treadle%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><p></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">She
sews and I treat her with kid-gloves. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Problem
solving sassy sewing machines with more than a dash of age-related
attitude is a walk in the park. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">If you know how to sew. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">But what if
you don’t? What if you’ve never used a sewing machine? Or sewn a seam? </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Should
a beginner sewist use a vintage sewing machine?</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">It
depends. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">What
we’re really taking about isn’t the difference between vintage
and modern. Or even metal and plastic. It’s whether beginners
should buy a second hand machine.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Let’s take a look at the pros and
cons of second hand vs new to see if there is a stand-out winner
between the two.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h1 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Second
Hand Sewing Machines</b></span></h1><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Vintage
or older sewing machines all have one thing in common. Regardless of
when they were made, they are all second hand. Or pre-loved. Some of them to within an inch of their lives judging by the state they are in!</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgLTPsZMU24/UBmVdAjaEEI/AAAAAAAAAcA/P3emIatTq4kaFayD-a0SqSPx-v6JiekhACPcBGAYYCw/s448/Web%2BMundlos%2B2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgLTPsZMU24/UBmVdAjaEEI/AAAAAAAAAcA/P3emIatTq4kaFayD-a0SqSPx-v6JiekhACPcBGAYYCw/s320/Web%2BMundlos%2B2.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Sometimes they will have been in the same family for a couple of generations.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">They
can come in a range of conditions from used and abused to immaculate
and well-oiled. Some have parts missing like the foot pedal, the
presser foot and the accessory tray. Others come with so many
accessories, the manual and a gleaming paint finish, they almost look
brand new.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Most
of the top brands we know and love today have a model or two that can
be purchased second hand. Whether they are the cast iron versions
from Grandma’s day or the plastic machines of the 1990s, second
hand machines are available in abundance. So much so, it can be
difficult to find the right one for your sewing needs.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mfD6r-zmRxI/Xn54gY7Bl4I/AAAAAAAABDA/FpAeQWu5EEo7dl1Us13Jg3Rp8surfNfiQCPcBGAYYCw/s640/DSCN7405.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mfD6r-zmRxI/Xn54gY7Bl4I/AAAAAAAABDA/FpAeQWu5EEo7dl1Us13Jg3Rp8surfNfiQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSCN7405.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><br /> </span><p></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Before
we get into the pros and cons of buying vintage, or rather second
hand, let’s take a look at some of the things you need to watch out
for.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><h3 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Value
For Money</b></span></h3><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">What
price you pay for a second hand sewing machine is determined by a
number of factors. The age and condition of the machine, how rare it
is, your location and what accessories come with it.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Remember,
being old doesn’t necessarily mean valuable. There are plenty of
older machines, many from the pre-1990s that aren’t worth more than
$30 or so. Yet, sellers will happily set the price at $150 or $200.
Simply because they are old.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">That’s
the machines not the sellers!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">The
trouble is many older machines aren’t particularly rare. Sewing
machines have been mass-produced for decades. With so many available,
it keeps their value down.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Having
said that, if you are looking at a pristine model with a fiddle base
from the 1880s-1890s, it could set you back more than the price of a
brand new machine. But with less of the usability and functions.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">If
you’re in the market for a second hand machine, consider what your
sewing needs are. Functions, features and ease of use will give you
more for your money. Both are more important than the age of the
machine or what it’s made from. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h3 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Functionality</b></span></h3><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Second
hand sewing machines cover all types, styles and brands. Each one
will have different features. To work out which one will help you
learn, you need to figure out what you want to sew.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">It
can be difficult to guess what it is you’re looking for. How do you
know what type of sewing you like until you’ve sewn with a machine?</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">As
a general rule, garment makers need a free arm, buttonholes, the
ability to install zippers, and a range of sewing feet. Newbie
quilters might only need a straight stitch machine with adjustable
feed dogs.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">But
why limit yourself? Depending on how new you are to sewing, I’d
recommend going for a machine that gives you the chance to do more
than just the bare minimum you need for one task.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">A
good second hand machine is one with basic functions including
straight stitch, zigzag, an automatic buttonhole and a small range of
decorative stitches. Buy the best you can afford with more functions
than you need. That way, you can grow your skills and not be held
back by an overly simple machine.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><h3 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Availability
of Parts</b></span></h3><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">One
of the biggest problems with second hand machines is the availability
of parts. From needles to bobbin replacements, if the machine is too
old, you may struggle to find the necessary accessories to make it
work.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
older sewing machines have parts missing. The accessory tray, the
presser foot, even the foot pedal can all disappear. Sounds like magic doesn't it? What it really means, the parts got taken off and have been lost. <br /></span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">If
you are looking at a machine, regardless of its age, and it has
anything missing – walk away! If you don’t know if all the parts
are there, walk away. As a beginner, you don’t need the extra
hassle of trying to find elusive replacement parts when you’re
learning to sew.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Stick
with machines that are complete and make sure the parts are still
readily available before you part with your cash. If you don’t know
what a sewing machine should come with, take someone with you who
does!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">If
you can’t do that - buy new!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><h3 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Over
Restored Machines</b></span></h3><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">This
refers to the bling factor. Some restorers take an older machine,
such as a Singer Featherweight from the 1950s, and restore it. Only,
instead of keeping to the original paintwork and taking steps to
protect the patina, or signs of age, they’ll completely re-vamp the
machine.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">The
problem with over restoration, it removes any value the machine may
have had due to its age. Becoming just another machine, the
historical credence is wiped away along with the original decals and lacquer. <br /></span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Using
modern shades of paint from bright pink to psychedelic, they will
repaint the machines to appeal to a modern aesthetic. Now, instead of
paying the true value of the machine, you’re paying for the
renovation.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">I’ve seen some featherweights going for $700 to $1000
simply because of the snazzy paint job.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Seriously,
they aren’t worth that much. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">A Singer Featherweight is actually a
fairly basic machine. Made from aluminum, it’s lightweight, and easy
to take on holiday or to classes.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Incredibly small, their functions are
limited. They are straight stitch only machines and unable to handle
larger projects due to the lack of sewing space.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">You’re
looking at $300-$400 tops. Personally, I wouldn’t even pay that. Not for
a Featherweight, in my opinion, they aren’t that usable. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">
</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Not
for my sewing needs anyway. Especially when you can get a <a href="https://amzn.to/3oC38Dh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Singer Quantum Stylist 9960</b></a> for nearly the same price with more
functionality!</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIaF2BcpB9M/YKhmjVKYKLI/AAAAAAAABtg/6RTN4GQMU08xq09EHVi47NoqsOm2DvidQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/51rseIzVutL._AC_SL1099_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIaF2BcpB9M/YKhmjVKYKLI/AAAAAAAABtg/6RTN4GQMU08xq09EHVi47NoqsOm2DvidQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/51rseIzVutL._AC_SL1099_.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><br /> </span><p></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">When
you’re looking at a second hand machine, ignore the paint work and
avoid the bling factor. Keep your needs in mind and buy a machine
based on what it can do. Not what it looks like.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Now
let’s get into the pros and cons of buying second hand or vintage:</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><h4 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Pros</span></h4><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><ul><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Nostalgic
and romantic, you can “feel” generations of sewists sewing along
with you</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
are built from cast iron or steel making them robust and hard wearing</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be a cheap alternative to a modern machines</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">No
computers means less to go wrong</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Simple
functions</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Easy
to clean and oil if needed</span></p>
</li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h4 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Cons</span></h4><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><ul><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be expensive for what they are</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Limited
functions</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be tricky to thread</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
don’t have numbers to show tension level or stitch length</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
need re-wiring or a new motor</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Some
have parts missing</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be complicated to use</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Tend
to be mechanical – you have to turn the hand wheel to get the
needle up or down</span></p>
</li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h1 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Brand New Sewing Machines</b></span></h1><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Modern
machines come in all shapes and sizes. With some designed
specifically for certain tasks like embroidery. Others are
combination machines making them ideal for the general sewist who
sews clothes, quilts and the occasional decorative stitch. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Coming
in a range of prices, there are machines to suit every budget and
skill level. Packed with features and functions, computerized models
can help take some of the confusion out of sewing. From automatic
buttonholes, to automatic needle threading, they are simple and easy
to use. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif">Finding
a modern machine needs the same level of research as a second hand
machine. You need to know what you want to sew, the functions you
need, and your level of expertise. </span> </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Don't worry about them being computerized! Some of the best modern machines are
mechanical. Take the <b><a href="https://amzn.to/3yvvnIo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Singer HD 4452</a>,</b> for example: </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gjo37UOS7RI/YKhm0H8WSdI/AAAAAAAABto/rdAiv45NCAQCqjXJtGJiMStQxIcki6NZgCLcBGAsYHQ/s600/51qRDVe-LYL._AC_SL1100_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gjo37UOS7RI/YKhm0H8WSdI/AAAAAAAABto/rdAiv45NCAQCqjXJtGJiMStQxIcki6NZgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/51qRDVe-LYL._AC_SL1100_.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">This
one is a good all-round general sewing machine. Capable of performing
heavy sewing with fabrics like denim, it can also be used for
quilting, as well as day-to-day repairs. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3oB0xte" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>T</b><b>he
Brother CS6000</b><b>i</b></a> is an ideal machine for a beginner. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6h8RPULI0Y/YKhnC0oyU3I/AAAAAAAABts/D2JUIoXBMEAL9YuI0G9gjOi1Dq4jIuYnACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/51a4KPFwkBL._AC_SL1200_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6h8RPULI0Y/YKhnC0oyU3I/AAAAAAAABts/D2JUIoXBMEAL9YuI0G9gjOi1Dq4jIuYnACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/51a4KPFwkBL._AC_SL1200_.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Budget
friendly and with plenty of built-in stitches for even the simplest
of projects, this machine can take you from beginner to advanced and
still be your number 1 choice for sewing. Professional sewists use
this one. It’s that good!</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Or
how about the <b><a href="https://amzn.to/3oCxS6U" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Janome DC 1050</a></b></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3EGdfLs6rA/YKhnNzOIpUI/AAAAAAAABt0/UyuaEJJJybYSqLRoHeXu868K_vl3dg6sQCLcBGAsYHQ/s614/41MyO%252BR-L4L._AC_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="614" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3EGdfLs6rA/YKhnNzOIpUI/AAAAAAAABt0/UyuaEJJJybYSqLRoHeXu868K_vl3dg6sQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/41MyO%252BR-L4L._AC_.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span><p></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">With
speed control, 500 Built-in stitches and a needle up/down button, it's slightly more advanced than the Brother but still an excellent
starter machine. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Let’s
take a look at some of the pros and cons of modern machines:</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h4 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Pros
</span>
</h4><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><ul><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
modern machines don’t need oiling</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Easy
to thread</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Bobbins
are simple to use</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
handle modern fabrics</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Needles,
spare bobbins, extra feet are all readily available</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Automatic
buttonholes, threaders and thread cutters</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Push
button needle up and down</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Come
with a warranty</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">May
come with free lessons if buying from a sewing machine dealer</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Will
all come with an instruction manual. Some also have a DVD</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be mechanical or computerized</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Some
combination machines will sew and embroider</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Many
smaller models are a lot lighter than older machines</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Some
have metal frames encased in plastic outer shells for stability </span>
</p>
</li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h4 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Cons</span></h4><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><ul><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be expensive </span>
</p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Some
machines are better suited to advanced sewists</span></p>
</li><li>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Can
be hard to find a sewing machine dealer for your preferred make
close by</span></p>
</li></ul><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><h1 style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"><b>Conclusion</b></span></h1><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
</p><span style="font-size: medium;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">At
the end of the day, the choice between second hand and brand new is
up to you. The only thing that matters is whatever sewing machine you
go for meets your sewing needs.</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">A sewing machine is a tool to aid you
on your sewing journey. It should never be a stumbling block, nor
should it hold you back.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Check
out both old and new machines before making your final choice. </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Why not consider a trade-in model at your local sewing machine dealership? You may find you
get the best of both worlds.</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a name="_GoBack"></a>
<span face="Arial, sans-serif">Trade-ins
are usually tested and will have been serviced before being put up
for sale. Better still, they may even come with sewing lessons! </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Bye for now</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">Olly</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;">If you liked the article, why not buy me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/simplystitchy</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This article contains Amazon associate links. I may earn a referral fee
for any purchases made via these links. This does not cost you any
extra, and there’s no obligation to use the links. Although, they do
help support me and this blog. <br /><br />The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. <br /> </span></p></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></p><p> <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: medium;"> </span>
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Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0Washington, USA47.7510741 -120.740138519.440840263821151 -155.8963885 76.061307936178849 -85.5838885tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-83439221898930033842021-04-06T14:01:00.005-07:002021-06-16T14:29:12.962-07:00How to Sew a Hat With a Sewing Machine #VintageSewing #Singer128 #Handcrank<p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/dPV_xt81VdY" width="480"></iframe> </p><p> Hi all,</p><p>It's not often I get to use my vintage Singer 128 hand crank so I decided I'd dust it off and put it to work making a new paperboy hat. </p><p>I'm using curtain material from a local thrift store. The added bonus is, this particular set of curtains were lined! meaning I have a built-in lining fabric for the hat!</p><p>See how I got on by watching the video link above.</p><p>Bye for now</p><p>Olly</p><div style="text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-size: medium;">For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </span></p><p> <span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a></span></p><p> <br /></p><p> </p><p></p><p><script src="https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js"></script>
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</script>Ollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15575208215693490059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19325039754454681.post-16570178296384475082021-02-17T17:47:00.001-08:002021-06-12T10:42:19.692-07:00How to Choose the Right Sewing Machine Needle<div>All sewists know the most important part of a sewing machine is the needle. Without one, the machine is useless, unless you need to wind a bobbin.<br /><br /> Because the needle is an essential part of the machine, it needs to be in tiptop condition. Not only does the needle have to be changed regularly, preferably after every project, but you have to use the right needle for the job. Both to improve accuracy and the reliability of the machine.<br /><br /> With so much to remember about needles, how do you know you're using the right one for your project? Or even the right needle for the machine itself? This article will take you through everything you need to know about needles and which one you should use in your next project.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KnX2NtnQ_9A/YC2pRgEk3QI/AAAAAAAABqY/L3ctPVXywtUTWhIgbLWoFY1-WCiWDoP7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/sewing-machine-2613527_640.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">Image by wnk1029 From Pixabay<br /></div> <h2>Things to consider </h2>Like all things sewing related knowing about needles isn’t quite as simple as this needle is great for one job and another is best for something else. You have to know which needle fits in your particular machine and even what type of machine you use. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: left;">Machine or Hand-sewing? </h3>While there are hundreds of types of needles, they all fall beneath two categories. Machine and hand needles. The distinction is an important one as they are not interchangeable.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SZiPY_wJBsM/YC2nRpu3R4I/AAAAAAAABqE/xw2JRdwO2CMfu1E7kDFKU0DE0Jje1cypwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BPremium%2BHand%2BSewing%2BNeedles%2Bfor%2BSewing%2BRepair%252C%2B30-Count%2BAssorted%2BNeedles%2Bwith%2B2%2BThreaders%252C%255B...%255D.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">Hand Sewing Needles <br /></div> <br /> <a href="https://amzn.to/3dmndty">Hand needles</a> are the ones with the eye at the opposite end to the tapered point. It's larger than the typical machine needle, designed for ease of threading and to ensure there's enough room for the thread, particularly in regard to embroidery.<br /><br /> <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9m8goZFreHk/YC2op-JNZ4I/AAAAAAAABqQ/eic3Z9jDy5UD7YMUycsvAmY1ZjqFUbP1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/sew-2384247_640.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Image by Moritz320 from Pixabay<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Machine needles, and the ones we're focusing on in this article, have the point and the eye at the same end. The top of the needle is a much thicker shaft (shank) with one flat side, perfect for fitting into the casing of a sewing machine. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>Domestic or Industrial? </h3></div><div style="text-align: left;">Obvious or not, both domestic and industrial sewing machines are very different. Designed for vastly different workloads, the needles the machines require change as well.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A69GiwsOBoU/YC2qJBsD46I/AAAAAAAABqk/NMhNGuacThUaChTGjKURAc_fybUP8Jw7ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/sewing-machine-1601457_640.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">Image by dtenorioferreira1 from Pixabay<br /></div><br />Industrial machines, as the name suggests, are the workhorses of the sewing world. They'll chug away at project after project, all day, every day. Because of this, they need a hardier needle. One that can keep up with the sheer amount of strain on its minuscule shoulders.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gfKS7YXTuS8/YC2rDsjbXWI/AAAAAAAABqw/uwoANUobil82zg913z9tBEe_9cGqTYXQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Singer%2BStylist%2B1972.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Domestic Machine Image by Olly White Simply Stitchy<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Domestic machines, on the other hand, have a much lighter load to take on. As a result, the needles don't need to withstand the same level of tension or friction as their industrial counterparts. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>Woven or Knitted?<br /></h3></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">Depending on the type of fabric you're using, the needle needs to be designed in a way to accurately handle them without causing unsightly damage or skipping stitches. </div><br />Woven fabrics, being more rigid than knits, are generally used for formal garments with a sturdier structure. Tailored suits are an example. Knitted fabric, with its natural stretch, tends to form looser and more relaxed clothing. The sweater you love to curl up in to relax on cold, winter days is probably a knit fabric. <br /><br />Leather and vinyl, however, are a different ballgame altogether. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: left;">Class, Size & Width </h3>Irritatingly enough, all sewing machines are not created equal. Depending on the brand, or the age of the machine itself, the size of the needle varies. <br /><br />Where one machine takes a class 15 another might take a completely different size. Most domestic sewing machines will take a class 15 needle, also known as 130/705H. Some don’t. Not only will the wrong size needle not fit in your machine, it can cause serious damage to both your project and the machine itself. <br /><br />It's important to check your machine's manual to make sure you have the right class of needle. <br /><br />Another way size plays a part is in the fineness of the needle or the width. Finer needles are great for lighter fabrics, like silk, but they'll break if used for hardier materials like leather. With the amount of pressure the needle is under as you work, a break can send metal splinters into your fingers and the machine itself. Ouch! <br /><br />The rule of thumb with needle width, the smaller the number the finer the needle. The numbers you are looking for are written as 90/14 or 110/18. The larger 110/18 is a suitable size for leather. 90/14 is a good medium needle. For light fabrics, you need 70/10 or even an 80/12. Schmetz, one of the industry staples for sewing machine needles has a handy needle guide. It shows both <a href="https://schmetzneedles.com/household-needle-chart ">type, size and the colors </a>associated with both.<br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Needles </h2>Now you know the basics of what to consider with needles, it's time to decide which needle will do the job you need. As a rule of thumb, change the needle whenever you start a new project, especially if you switch fabric types or between 8 – 10 hours of sewing time. A blunt needle, after all, is a useless one. <br /><br />Here's a list of the various types of sewing machine needle and the projects they're best for: <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Standard Needles </h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3qzlVz2">Universal Needle</a> </h4></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m9IqhLwri9c/YC2tAsMehFI/AAAAAAAABq8/Z3B7vn_J1zUeCvB8jDZGc-SQEbZaHxfJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSCHMETZ%2BUniversal%2B%2528130%2B705%2BH%2529%2BHousehold%2BSewing%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2B-%2BCarded%2B-%2BAssortment%2B-%2B10%2B%255B...%255D.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />If you're really unsure what needle your project needs, the universal needle is the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to non-specialty fabrics. If you're using woven or knit fabrics, the universal needle has your back. <br /><br />These are the bog-standard needles that always come with the sewing machine when you purchase it. They come in packs with a variety of sizes to allow you to choose the best one for your fabric. <br /><br />The one thing to remember though is, despite the name, one size does not fit all sewing machines! Since the 'universal' refers to the fabric rather than the machine, you still have to check your manual to make sure the size you buy is the correct one. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Jack-of-all-trades </li><li>Used for both woven and knitted fabrics </li><li>Tailored suits</li><li>Casual attire <br /></li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2LZ1vjZ">Jersey Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FwNWVLBy7CA/YC2t9EN6UmI/AAAAAAAABrI/MmZCqNLsZyUx-ynH_QB_9uEAuF5G1kJcgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BEuro-Notions%2BBall%2BPoint%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2B%2528Two%2BEach%2BSize%2B10%2Band%2B12%252C%2BOne%2BSize%2B14%2529%2B-%2B5%2Bper%2BPac%255B...%255D.jpg" /></a><br /></div><br />Also known as "ballpoint needles", Jersey needles have a rounded tip. Instead of piercing through fabric, they slip between the threads of knitted materials and avoid causing damage or skipping stitches. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Knitted fabrics </li><li> Casual attire </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/37njgkB">Stretch Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNehxsjz7lo/YC2uRBpztOI/AAAAAAAABrQ/6n7hlglgjggPL1VDXSMOwe9T7Czok2YwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2B1722%2BStretch%2BNeedles%252C%2B130%2B705%2BH-S%2B75%2B11%252C%2B5%2Bper%2Bpack%2B%25282%2BPack%2529.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Perfect for Lycra, spandex or other elastic fabrics, stretch needles are great for avoiding missed stitches. They're less rounded than ballpoint needles and, like Jersey needles, ease between the fibers of the material as you work. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lycra, spandex or other stretch fabrics </li><li>Sports clothing </li><li> Swimwear </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3u5VMdr">Microtex Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-51S48tTEf8M/YC2uryj-K8I/AAAAAAAABrY/OH_fdHcgNKQAVNj5Y1yZJh1fp0mSOPFLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BMicrotex%2BSharp%2BMachine%2BNeedles-Size%2B8%2B60%252C%2B10%2B70%252C%2B12%2B80%2B5%2BPkg.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Sharper and thinner than Universal needles, microtex (or sharps) are used on finer fabrics. More often used in projects requiring microfiber, silk or synthetic leather, microtex needles can also be used with polyester and other fine materials. These needles are also great for quilting, piecing and applique. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Microfiber </li><li>Polyester </li><li>Topstitching or other decorative stitches </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3doDvlU">Leather</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gCUUbuQMGto/YC2vCtIejzI/AAAAAAAABrg/qFKAuZES1ZskB0q8Wj_mhL_slthqaMNLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BEuro-Notions%2B1786%2BLeather%2BMachine%2BNeedles-Size%2B110-18%2B5-Pkg.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Designed with a large, triangular point, like a wedge, leather needles pierce through leather, vinyl and suede without tearing the material or breaking under the pressure. Since leather needles are intended for use with natural leathers, most synthetic materials require a microtex or sharp needle. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Leather, vinyl and suede </li><li> Shoe repair </li><li> Belts and other accessories </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2OCsLFV">Jeans or Denim Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fiAWtumSqs/YC2vXSUjpgI/AAAAAAAABro/kVy7sJvsL6QrDRM16pEbl1p4xvA9XD6IwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BJean%2BDenim%2BMachine%2BNeedles-Size%2B18%2B110%2B5%2BPkg%2B%25282%2BPack%2529.jpg" /></a><br /></div> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />As the name suggests, these needles are designed for jeans or denim fabric. They have a strong point and shaft to enable them to pierce through tightly woven materials, even canvas. <br /><br />For denim containing a certain amount of stretch, these needles can be partnered with a stretch needle. Use the jeans/denim needle for the topstitching and the stretch needle for the seams. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Tightly woven materials</li><li>Jeans or denim </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3auppgT">Self-Threading Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D2m9xw6NcAM/YC2vyUPdpfI/AAAAAAAABrw/mZ_Jpul4U2EauBKeD-jQtTWlbiFl-WIVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2BSelf-Threading%2BUniversal%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2BSize%2B14%2B90%2BPackage%2Bof%2B5.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Although more fragile than the other needles available, self-threading needles have a tiny slot at the side of the eye to make threading easier. They're great for sewists who have trouble threading needles and are designed after the universal needle. While they work best with woven fabrics, they may snag on knits. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Designed for ease of threading </li><li>Woven fabrics</li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Decoration </h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3qHWZp2">Topstitch Needles</a> </h4></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pj9DG479RvE/YC2wHYQBIAI/AAAAAAAABr4/8-A33Mr3UNo0rytdBGejCK04DjbiTOinwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BTopstitch%2BMachine%2BNeedle-Size%2B90%2B14%2B5%2BPkg.jpg" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Designed to pierce several layers of fabric, topstitch needles are incredibly sharp and feature a large eye to accommodate the thicker threads required for decorating garments. As they're used to highlight features in a project, topstitch needles allow you to achieve a very straight, even line of stitches. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Straight, even stitches </li><li> Necklines </li><li>Hems </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3u8Lj12">Embroidery Needles</a><br /></h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrnJXWGVOpg/YC2wY6ovscI/AAAAAAAABsA/NNv7tIxdmsA3XKkuUmeM3ZujcP-JPp2YQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2B25%2BSchmetz%2BEmbroidery%2BSewing%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2B130%2B705H%2BH-E%2BSize%2B75%2B11%2B%2528Original%2BVersion%2529.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Used with rayon, polyester and other decorative threads, embroidery needles feature a large eye and groove to protect the thread from fraying as you work. Embroidery needles aren't as sharp as topstitch needles. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Designed for thicker threads </li><li> Embroidered decorations </li><li> Embellishments </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3qza6sL">Quilting Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-el3xYdCcxY4/YC2wo2-2qsI/AAAAAAAABsI/laeFSSs6ecUITKMm1HJSEd6zuvYFmuUUwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2BQuilting%2BSewing%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2B130%2B705H%2BH-Q%2BSize%2B90%2B14%252C%2B%2528pack%2Bof%2B5%2529.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Also known as a 'stippling' needle. Stronger than most other needles due to the thick layers of material involved in quilt-making, quilting needles are tapered and sharp. They're designed to cause the least amount of damage to the fabric as possible. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Multiple layers of fabric </li><li> Intersecting seams </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3dnRGaM">Metallic Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYeVCiskc7M/YC2w94oNP1I/AAAAAAAABsU/G42pr0_lLRAz2CKskWgaZpP8Go2HOPSsgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2BMetallic%2BMachine%2BNeedles-Size%2B12%2B80%2B5%2BPkg.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Due to the fragility of metallic threads, metallic needles have larger, Teflon coated eyes to lessen the amount of friction on the thread itself. This also allows you to use thicker thread for your embellishments. Designed after the universal needle, they work with both woven and knit fabrics. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Metallic threads (or other specialized threads) </li><li> Woven and knit fabrics </li><li> Embellishments </li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Specialized Needles </h3><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3s77wuf">Hemstitch Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4ZgeMvbgIQ/YC2xTK1sSnI/AAAAAAAABsc/L4LiTui-mWEgygaoD6if5qLqBR2PEk6ygCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2BHemstitch%2BWing%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2BSize%2B120.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Also known as 'wing' needles due to the flanges on both sides of the shaft, hemstitch needles create decorative holes on your project by pushing the fabric fibers apart. They're often used for decorating hems and borders. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Woven fabrics </li><li> Decorative hems </li></ul><h4 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3bd6OoF">Twin & Triple Needles</a> </h4><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-904xVp_xwyU/YC2xnZLxBYI/AAAAAAAABsk/Dm6WSIJRbp8lryUtTxg-wtSjHwFlxgtHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screenshot_2021-02-17%2BAmazon%2Bcom%2BSchmetz%2BUniversal%2BTwin%2BDouble%2BSewing%2BMachine%2BNeedles%2BSystem%2B130%2B705.jpg" /></a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Attached to a single shank and evenly spaced, twin and triple needles create several lines of stitches at once. Use them to add a unique flair to hemlines but make sure the throat plate of your sewing machine is wide enough to accommodate the extra size. You also need extra thread spools to use each needle. Twin needles come as universal needles or stretch. The numbers 4.0/80 indicate the gap between the needles and the width of the actual needles. <br /><br />Usage: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Topstitch </li><li>Decorative stitching </li><li> Pin tucking</li></ul><h2 style="text-align: left;">FAQ </h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">How do you decide which needle is right for your project? </h3>Consider your chosen project and the fabric you're using. Are you hemming or adding decoration? Is it a stretch fabric or leather? Remember to consider the thickness of the fabric as well, using a fine needle with a thick fabric will lead to a broken or bent needle. <br /><br />When in doubt, particularly with woven or knit fabrics, use a universal but it's always better to choose a needle designed specifically for its intended purpose. <br /><br />If you're still unsure, check the back of the needle packet. The recommended usage is often written on the packaging. <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">You've chosen your needle but the machine's skipping stitches </h3>There are several reasons why your sewing machine is skipping stitches. Relax, it happens to all of us! Here are a few troubleshooting tips to get you out of a pinch: <br /> <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Check your stitch length and needle tension. </li><li> Have you definitely chosen the right needle for the project? </li><li> Examine the needle. If it's blunt, bent or broken, change it. </li><li> Try a larger size needle. </li><li> If your sewing is going unexpectedly haywire, try experimenting with different needle types on a scrap piece of the fabric you're using. Sometimes, the best option doesn't always end up being the recommended one. </li><li> Take your sewing machine to a technician. The timing of the machine can go off, or a broken needle can cause damage to the interior workings and cause the thread to catch. </li><li>Why do the needles keep breaking? </li><li>Try a larger needle, especially if the fabric you're using is a thick one. Finer needles are more fragile and can't cope with the pressure of working thicker fabrics. </li><li>If the needles are still breaking, it might be a case of user error. Try not to force the fabric through the sewing machine you should only guide it. For very thick areas, like doubled-up seams, slow down or manually stitch the seam with the hand wheel. </li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Why is the stitched hole so big? </h3>This is the opposite of the previous question. If the stitches your sewing result in large holes, try a smaller needle. Lighter fabrics require finer needles and the thicker shafts of the larger sizes will cause more damage to the material. <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Why isn't my machine sewing properly? </h3>If you've recently changed the needle and find your machine isn't working as it should, check to make sure the needle is properly fixed in place. Most machine needles have a rounded shank with one flat edge, the flat side should face the back of the machine. <br /><br />In case the needle isn't at fault, consider other choices. There are plenty of things that can go wrong with machines and they range from damage caused by a broken needle to faulty timing or something simple like a tension issue. <br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion </h2> It's important to remember not all needles are created equal and, since they're essential to our sewing hobbies, it's beneficial to keep stock of the various types of needles you need for your projects. While you don't have to buy all of the types available, it's good practice to pay attention to your favored patterns and keep the needles you need close by. <br /><br /> I hope this article helped you figure out which needle your project requires and, if I missed one, let me know in the comments. <br /><br />Bye for now <br /><br />Olly</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">This article contains Amazon associate links. I may earn a referral fee
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help support me and this blog. <br /><br />The items showcased may be available from other suppliers if you prefer not to use the links. <br /> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: </h3> <a href="https://twitter.com/olwenwhite">Twitter</a><br /><a href="http://facebook.com/OlwenWhite">Facebook</a><br /><a href="http://instagram.com/simplystitchy/">Instagram</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://bit.ly/38YJrzL">YouTube</a><br /><br />Sources: <br /><br /><a href="https://www.sewingmachinefun.com/sewing-machine-needle-chart/">https://www.sewingmachinefun.com/sewing-machine-needle-chart/</a><br /><a href=" https://www.singer.com/sewing-resources/choosing-the-right-machine-needles " target="_blank"><br />https://www.singer.com/sewing-resources/choosing-the-right-machine-needles </a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/1509578/guide-sewing-machine-needles-and-how-to-use-them">https://www.marthastewart.com/1509578/guide-sewing-machine-needles-and-how-to-use-them</a> <br /><br /><a href="https://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/needle-type-chart.php">https://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/needle-type-chart.php</a> <br /><br /><a href="https://weallsew.com/five-basic-sewing-needles-you-need-and-why/">https://weallsew.com/five-basic-sewing-needles-you-need-and-why/</a> <br /><br /><a href="https://www.threadsmagazine.com/2008/11/06/sewing-machine-needles-an-overview">https://www.threadsmagazine.com/2008/11/06/sewing-machine-needles-an-overview</a> <br /><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> </div><script src='https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/scripts/overlay-widget.js'></script>
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