Simply Stitchy

  I see a lot of questions online in sewing groups and forums on the topic of the best sewing machines for beginners. 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.     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. 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. Which isn’t necessarily true. Especially when you remember that plastic machines have been around for over 40 years… so are just as likely to be vintage. 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....

   Hi all, 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.  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! See how I got on by watching the video link above. Bye for now Olly For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: Twitter Facebook Instagram   YouTube    

  Hi all, It's a common misconception that you can't sew thick fabrics or multiple layers on a domestic sewing machine. The times I've heard folks in FaceBook groups insisting the only way to sew heavy fabrics is with an industrial machine or a semi-industial. Not only is it simply not true, it's not fair on our hard working domestic machines! They can and do cope with layers of fabric, as well as thicker fabrics like denim. All you need to know is how to sew the thicker fabrics with your standard domestic sewing machine.  In today's video, I put a few of my machines to the test and show you how easy it is to sew thick fabrics or layers of fabric on your domestic machine.  Click the video link above! Bye for now! Olly For more sewing tips and adventures, follow me: Twitter Facebook Instagram   YouTube    

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. 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. 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. Image by wnk1029 From Pixabay Things to consider 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 t...

  If sorting out the best storage solution for your pattern collection has been at the top of your to-do list recently, you’ve probably noticed it isn’t easy. You’re faced with a couple of questions. What to store the patterns in and how to file them. The best storage solutions for your pattern collection need to be sturdy, durable and long lasting. Clear plastic totes make ideal storage boxes as the contents can be seen at a glance. Each pattern should be kept in an acid free plastic cover within the box to protect the tissue paper and envelope. Patterns can be stored by era or style. If you’re like me, you’ve probably collected quite a few sewing patterns over the years. From projects you’ve made to patterns you might make in the future. In my case, I even buy patterns for the artwork on the front. I have boxes full of patterns dating from the 1940s to the current day, all crammed in together. Which isn’t good for them and doesn’t help me find what I’m looking for. ...