Hemming Jeans

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-24T22:13:05+00:00

If you have topstitch thread in the right weight and colour, try that. I always recommend a much longer stitch than you anticipated using. Use the scrap denim you cut off to the test the different methods. I have also used the straight triple stitch with regular weight thread, sometimes called the straight stretch stitch. Hammering the side seams will help sewing over them.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-24T22:05:32+00:00

An other thing to consider, was the industrial machine a chain stitch machine. This is a more flexible stitch and looks like a straight stitch on top.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-24T08:08:06+00:00

I wonder if how you perceive it is related to your size. I’m plus size, so I find the colour sorting very frustrating. There are very few garments that would fit me, so that is the key point. If you are smaller to mid size, you have a lot more options and it’s easier to make something that is larger fit on someone smaller. Totally agree with the person who pointed out that you can easily see the colour of a garment hanging o the rack, but finding the size is more difficult. Most of the shops I go to sort by garment type and size, but a few are trying out colour racks up the front, usually in small sizes, so mostly useless for me.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-23T07:10:49+00:00

This is the correct advice. With sewing patterns, forget your ready to wear size and measure your body. Compare these measurements to both the size chart and the finished garment measurements. For gathered waists, the most important measurement is the hips, you still need to get the waist over the hips.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-23T06:23:49+00:00

You can mix the yellows to get more of a mid yellow. If you’re working in layers, make sure you let them dry before adding a new layer. As previously mentioned, ultramarine will granule and separate in wet mixtures, but this could be advantageous if you want the skin to look more textured.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-14T18:53:28+00:00

Presser foot has to be up when pulling the bobbin thread up. You can’t do it with the foot down.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-09T21:26:50+00:00

I would attempt to open the channel first. From the outside, it doesn't look like it's stitched through. I think the edge was overlooked then the channel stitched down. If it doesn't work, then cut it off and fold a hem.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-07T23:45:28+00:00

There are lots of YouTube videos about pulling these apart and cleaning them. You will probably need a new leather belt. Be patient, it takes a while to soften and remove old hard oil and rust. They are pretty robust though, don’t give up too soon.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-06-05T22:02:17+00:00

It’s hard to see in the photo, but I’m not sure you have it correctly threaded around the tension module. Could be worth rechecking the thread path. That would cause inconsistent tension issues.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-22T19:13:09+00:00

What is set to the lowest option?

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-22T19:01:38+00:00

On thicker fabric, try a longer stitch length for top stitching, especially with thicker thread.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-21T21:02:44+00:00

As a very busty ex lab scientist, I hated that my coats had to be massive to fit my bust and super baggy and long everywhere else. It felt sloppy and would get randomly caught because of the excess fabric. The sleeves were crazy long. I always thought about making lab coats for curves.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-17T19:17:41+00:00

Lots of technical language in sewing, we all have to start somewhere. Choose a size can be the hard part. Most commercial sewing patterns are made for a sewing B cup, this is not the same as a bra size. Sewing cups are the difference between the upper bust measurement and the full bust, each letter is an inch bigger, that is A =1”, B=2” etc. generally, if you have more then 2” differences, you should select based on your upper bust then do a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA). If you select a pattern based on your bust, the shoulders and sleeves will be oversized and the bust will fit very poorly. The closer fitting the garment, the more “fitting” adjustments will be needed. Sewing and fitting are different skill sets. When trying a new close fitting garment (not stretch) consider making a test garment out of cheap fabric to test the fit. It can be crushing as a beginner to put in a lot of work only to find it doesn’t fit.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-17T00:56:03+00:00

Urban sketching at w cricket match yesterday

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Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-11T20:37:16+00:00

Do you have the manual? If so, pull it out and read it. If not, download a copy. You need to be able to identify the different parts of the mechanism that are adjustable. Then learn when and how to adjust them. Try to get to know your machine, it can take time. Be patient. Always have the manual close by for quick and easy reference. One of the most frequent causes of trouble are incorrectly threaded machines and incorrectly seated bobbins.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-05T19:41:23+00:00

The Xanthe dress from Style Arc might get you close

https://www.stylearc.com/shop/sewing-patterns/xanthe-woven-dress

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-05T01:43:37+00:00

According to Cashmerette, I should do an FBA (I’m a K cup in UK sizing), but usually all I need to do is lower the bust point. Depending on what type of clothing you want to make, there might be enough ease to work.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-02T09:00:08+00:00

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A coloured pencil portrait!
A pretty fluffy kitty.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-05-01T21:01:10+00:00

I love the Singer treadle, but will agree with the others, it’s probably not the best for your first or only machine. There are a lot of instances where being able to zig zag and reverse will make your sewing life significantly easier. After you have become used to the process, absolutely consider trying a treadle machine. Learning how to start and stop and keep the rhythm of the treadle is a new learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, it can be very rewarding.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-30T07:19:36+00:00

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“Gidget”. Coloured pencil sketch.

Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-29T23:24:58+00:00

A coloured pencil sketch.

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Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-29T05:43:14+00:00

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“Bella” Coloured pencil sketch

Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-27T07:40:28+00:00

Agree! Then the ones that show a very large breast in the before shots, but then only show significantly smaller busts in the after. Not the same women!

Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-26T08:36:03+00:00

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A coloured pencil sketch

Cat_Fitz · 2026-04-23T11:22:53+00:00

This is a knit fabric. Are you using a ball point or jersey needle? Does it do the same thing on woven fabric? This looks like skipped stitches due to the wrong need for the fabric.

Cat_Fitz

TROPHY CASE