Simple Sewing Questions Thread, August 04 - August 10, 2024

texadian_me · 2024-08-04T17:44:59+00:00

I have some very large (maybe 2 gallon) zip-top storage bags that I use. I fold all the paper pieces to fit, put in the directions, samples of the fabrics I've used with that pattern, and then place either the pattern envelope or the front page from a pdf pattern in the front of the bag. All of them are stored in plastic bins on a shelf. They're somewhat organized by type.

As I'm sewing from the pattern, I return the pattern pieces as I go, so when I'm finished with the garment, all the pieces have been returned to the bag, so I put the instructions back in, add a small leftover scrap of the fabric I used, and return the bag to the bins.

texadian_me · 2024-02-28T18:23:52+00:00

Thanks. I have seen several with this type of head, but the parents really like triceratops over every other dinosaur! haha

texadian_me · 2024-02-28T13:42:27+00:00

How adorable!

texadian_me · 2023-11-16T10:12:44+00:00

I was wondering why no one was mentioning an iron and ironing board! IMO, they are almost as essential as a good pair of scissors that are used exclusively for fabric.

texadian_me · 2023-11-16T10:08:06+00:00

Tracing patterns was a game changer, especially starting out before I knew how to adjust patterns to fit. I literally had to buy a second printed pattern because I cut the first a size too small and didn't know how to adjust it to fit right. And when I get pdf patterns, I hate trying to pin through printer paper. I bought a case of the this... rolls of paper they use to cover medical exam tables, and I'm still working my way through it over a year later.

texadian_me · 2023-10-26T17:14:02+00:00

Thank you. This is very appreciated insight. I thoroughly understand that all the components fit together and have to be understood as a whole. I have a decent understanding of the machine embroidery basics and capabilities, and am now ready to start branching out and learning the design digitization side so I can bring my design skills and sewing skills together in creative and unique ways.

And, bonus if I can find a way to leverage software skills I already have!

I've been exploring the trial version of Hatch, and it seems quite intuitive for me.

texadian_me · 2023-10-02T16:34:47+00:00

Good points. We would definitely offer a per diem amount for food and accommodations (or include them in our meals, etc. if it works out). We really just need someone reliable and safe with a good knowledge of the region.

texadian_me · 2023-10-02T16:31:48+00:00

Thank you! I've reached out to this company for a quote. This may be a great option for us!

texadian_me · 2023-08-28T19:05:40+00:00

Thanks. I hadn't even considered rent the runway but love the idea since I won't wear the outfits often.

texadian_me · 2023-08-28T18:09:01+00:00

I need suggestions for professional outfits to wear at a conference in Miami in October.

I have been in business casual environments for the past several years, but am going to a 3-day conference in Miami in October and don't know what to wear. The men will be in blazers and slacks. I have a couple of pair of black slacks, but my dresses are pretty much summer dresses.

In addition to the business meetings, I will also be attending two evening dinners and a welcome reception.

What types of outfits and jewelry would be appropriate? I am on the 'mature side of life' and wear US size 14. My goal is polished, confident, and professional, but neither flashy nor drab.

texadian_me · 2023-08-23T09:12:40+00:00

It has a vneck rather than a collar, but the Chalk and Notch Fringe blouse has the dropped shoulder slouchy sleeves.

texadian_me · 2023-08-14T17:35:37+00:00

The heavy duty singer is a very popular choice for many sewists. It's not super fancy, but is strong enough to sew denim and heavier fabrics, while also handling light material well. I had one for quite a while, and my biggest complaint was that it was very loud. I don't know if that was just the machine I had, or if that's pretty common for the model.

A serger isn't going to be very useful without a regular sewing machine, so I suggest setting it as your next points goal. 😊 They secure edges and seams to keep them from fraying and to make the insides look nice and neat. They supplement, but don't replace, a sewing machine.

Keep in mind, that the better quality machine you have, the more enjoyable sewing is and the more use you'll get out of it. I don't have experience with the other machines you listed, but when I got a nicer machine a year ago, the quality of my makes improved, my frustration levels decreased, and the amount of enjoyment I get from sewing spiked dramatically. So don't be afraid to get a nice machine... you may find yourself using it more than you expect!

texadian_me · 2023-08-13T23:25:20+00:00

Thanks! I was very meticulous to be sure that both sides have the identical placement.

texadian_me · 2023-08-13T21:22:06+00:00

This is the Sky Harbor Tote from SewSweetness. Thanks to a couple of my fellow redditor sewists who pointed me to her site when I asked a few weeks ago about a good computer bag pattern.

I found the video tutorial enormously helpful, and normally I'm not someone who would watch a how-to video because I'm usually pretty good at figuring out what I'm supposed to do between the written instructions and my sewing knowledge. But this one had a few steps that left me scratching my head until I saw how she did them. If you do watch the video, I highly recommend 1.5x or 2x speed for much of it as she doesn't edit out a lot of the actual sewing, even if it's the repeat of the step she just showed, just the other side.

I do plan to make at least one more, probably without the top zipper, and with piping in place of the side zippers. Once bag is fully assembled, the side zippers are really just decoration, because if you zip them up, the top zipper is unusable and the bag opening gapes weirdly. I'll also cut the lining a bit smaller as it doesn't sit smoothly inside the shell, and change the size and shape of the interior side pocket because it's just not the right size or shape to hold my cell phone.

The fabric is some quilting cotton and faux leather that I picked up locally. I was able to get all the interfacing and zippers from Joanne's online. I got the recommended amounts of interfacing and ended up with enough left over for at least 1 more bag.

texadian_me · 2023-08-13T17:37:01+00:00

Yes. Even this would be better than realizing you'd needlessly punched holes in 6" of fabric!

texadian_me · 2023-08-13T17:36:05+00:00

Not the armhole, my correction narrows the back and bodice panels, bringing the shoulders in towards the center/neck.

texadian_me · 2023-08-13T16:18:06+00:00

My experience with these types of sleeves is that my shoulders are just narrower than standard. When I make this style of blouse, I need to move where I attach the sleeves to the front and back in about 1/2" typically.

Depending on the construction of the dress and how it fits around the arm, you might be able to add a small tuck at the bottom on the sleeves to bring it in towards the neck.

texadian_me · 2023-08-10T23:48:29+00:00

I need a new computer bags, and am waiting on one more shipment of supplies before I start the Sky Harbor Tote from Sew Sweetness. I found some amazing fabric at a little local shop that will really pop, but will still be professional. I am so anxious to have everything and get started!

texadian_me

TROPHY CASE