View entire thread: Machine Embroidery
Posted by Steph Peters on Sun Jul 16, 2006 6:38 PM    Post subject: Re: Machine Embroidery



Eliza Wright <sgudal@[127.0.0.1]> of 2 Fishes wrote: [quote:1d2b00a50c]Hi everyone, Is there anybody here who does
machine embroidery? I mean the free style sort where you lower the feed dog and move the material around yourself etc.
I am wanting to get a sewing machine specifically for this purpose. Have just spent ages looking around lots on the web,
until I feel dizzy. I should point out that my nearest sewing machine shop is about 250 miles away and so I will not be
going to test drive the machine. So, any help would be appreciated. [/quote:1d2b00a50c] I have done this type of
embroidery, but not in the last couple of years. I use my very basic 20 year old New Home machine for it. The things
that you want are: - ensure the feed dogs can be dropped under the faceplate so they do not protrude at all. Some
machines are better than others. - check on where you can get extra shuttles and at what price. I find it worthwhile
having 20 or so prewound with my favourite shades. - sometimes the fabrics used are quite flimsy. Use stitching paper
to help. Unfortunately this is where a real test drive would come in handy. - a friend's machine holds the thread reels
horizontally instead of vertically. This seems to work better - on my machine the reels of some fancy threads come
flying off the top of the spindle. Could just be my machine though. -- Those who are mentally and emotionally healthy
are those who have learned when to say yes, when to say no and when to say whoopee. W.S. Krabill Steph Peters delete
invalid from incm@sandbenders.demon.co.uk.invalid Tatting, lace & stitching page
<http://www.sandbenders.demon.co.uk/index.htm>

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View entire thread: Need Help finding
Posted by Butterflywings on Mon Sep 25, 2006 4:01 PM    Post subject: Re: Need Help finding

Just don't do what I did and get 'turned around' in the middle of your project. Butterfly "Sandy Ellison"
<eltex@sbcglobal.net> wrote in message news:C13C7FFF.B572%eltex@sbcglobal.net... [quote:2fd44fc0bc]Howdy!
Working on a small LogCabin this weekend, in blues & yellows. ;-) Here are a couple of lessons/ideas I like:
building blocks -- http://www.nmia.com/~mgdesign/qor/styles/logcabin/logani.htm settings --
http://www.vcq.org/specialty%20lessons.htm/log_cabin.htm Here's another plan:
http://www.womenfolk.com/baby_quilts/logcabinpattern.htm I determine the width of the strips (I like 1 1/2"), cut
a bunch of those strips and start sewing them together, then go around the cabin path, pressing and trimming after each
addition. May take a little longer than some super-fast pattern plan but it doesn't take much time at all to whip
these babies out of the machine & into a quilt top. Good luck! Ragmop/Sandy On 9/24/06 1:22 PM, in article
12hdjafrct4r2a4@corp.supernews.com, "Barbara Sherrill" <bsherrill@ia-pdq> wrote: I am wanting to do a
baby blanket. I have 5 different types of material for it. I was wanting to look at perhaps doing a basic log cabin
style blanket.... Can anyone help me with a pattern? I have looked online and just not sure I am looking all in the
right places... Barbara in Spring Branch (Houston) [/quote:2fd44fc0bc]

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View entire thread: Need Help finding
Posted by Sandy Ellison on Mon Sep 25, 2006 12:33 AM    Post subject: Re: Need Help finding

Howdy! Working on a small LogCabin this weekend, in blues & yellows. ;-) Here are a couple of lessons/ideas I
like: building blocks -- http://www.nmia.com/~mgdesign/qor/styles/logcabin/logani.htm settings --
http://www.vcq.org/specialty%20lessons.htm/log_cabin.htm Here's another plan:
http://www.womenfolk.com/baby_quilts/logcabinpattern.htm I determine the width of the strips (I like 1 1/2"), cut
a bunch of those strips and start sewing them together, then go around the cabin path, pressing and trimming after each
addition. May take a little longer than some super-fast pattern plan but it doesn't take much time at all to whip
these babies out of the machine & into a quilt top. Good luck! Ragmop/Sandy On 9/24/06 1:22 PM, in article
12hdjafrct4r2a4@corp.supernews.com, "Barbara Sherrill" <bsherrill@ia-pdq> wrote: [quote:5b1590cd0f]I am
wanting to do a baby blanket. I have 5 different types of material for it. I was wanting to look at perhaps doing a
basic log cabin style blanket.... Can anyone help me with a pattern? I have looked online and just not sure I am looking
all in the right places... Barbara in Spring Branch (Houston) [/quote:5b1590cd0f]

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View entire thread: VENT: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!
Posted by Marie Davis on Mon Sep 18, 2006 11:34 PM    Post subject: Re: VENT: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!

On 18 Sep 2006 11:51:48 -0700, "Tricia" <cricket527@e-garfield.com> wrote: [quote:67769704c6]Well, I
went to my cousin's wedding this weekend downstate....nice enough considering I didn't really feel like I was a part of
things (and had a bad turn out of guest messages for her wedding gift but oh well, I'll figure something
out).....anywhoo..... Danced up a storm, although admittedly not as much as I normally would have as DH was tired and
knowing he would be doing the driving back north the next day to get us home had him taking it easy. Now I've got my
right knee wrapped in an ACE bandage (my sewing pedal leg!) because two years ago some nut job wanted a ride in an
ambulance so much she rear-ended DH and I and my knee went WHACK! into the dash. We all assumed I was only bruised and
indeed with some excercises prescribed to me by my doctor my knee got to feeling better -- except for things like the
changing weather and when I do things like dance (which I LIKE to do). Unfortunately, we had no idea it would be so
lingering/reoccuring until after the claim deadline (so I can't even get reimb'd for the aggravation of days like
yesterday and today). So I hobbled into work this morning to get my check and find out the schedule for the week and
the boss lady gave me my check and sent me home, telling me to put my leg up and call it was better because I wasn't
gonna be able to do the job until I was more mobile. So no work....not the end of the world for today, I could really
use some downtime after being on the run for a very emotional weekend....I need the downtime today that even the loss of
potential hours and income doesn't bother me too much but..... I am bumming big time because (besides the pain
associated with walking) I was all geared to come back north here and get to work on a project for my mom (one of my
Finishers 2006 goals). I had decided on what I wanted to do Thursday evening as I was getting off shift at work, well
inspired by the patterns I was looking at there at the shop, etc. Well, I couldn't do it Thursday because I had to do
laundry and pack for the trip. We left right after errands and DH's classes were done on Friday (wasn't even worth
trying to take the machine with us -- I *knew* I wouldn't have any time downstate this trip), so last night and/or today
was going to be the first chance I had to get rolling on this and I can't use my machine because of my friggin' knee and
I can't stand to rotary my fabric for this either. I'm so upset about the woman who did this to me and will never know
the lingering effects of what she did to get a fix for her ambulance addiction (admittedly, I never spoke to the woman
but the emergency responder who I spoke to at the scene let me know that the woman "likes" to ride in
ambulances and that they had just picked her up on a call the night before and she hit us just after leaving the
hospital). Actually, I'm not upset about her per se but more that because of a stranger's actions to satisfy an
addiction, I'm left to pay the consequences. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! Anyone ever train themselves to use their
non-dominant leg with the sewing machine pedal? Was it hard? Any tips for me? Anyway, the project I have in mind for
my mom is a whole new experience for me in many regards--- 1. it will include triangles that are NOT PP'd 2. it doesn't
have neat 90 degree corner angles in the finished product 3. will be the first thing from conception to completion that
will be for "use" (meaning likely to get dirty and therefore need to really be washable) rather than just to
hang on the wall looking pretty (this one is meant to sit on a table/desk and look pretty instead *snicker*) 4.
following a pattern that isn't PP'd and isn't just a throw together as I go along 5. I will *probably* use Warm and
Natural for the first time unless I decide to use a length of flannel in there instead for a dense
batting......hmmm......flannel is probably too costly....ah, decisions, decisions..... It's a table runner comprised of
triangles, plain squares, and 4 patch squares placed in such a manner where the 4 patch squares run down the long center
of the runner and the triangles fill the side gaps and on either side of the 4 patches are the plains. at least that's
what my memory recalls...I have to go find my jotted notes in my purse from when I sketched them out at work on Thursday
waiting for DH to come pick me up. I'm pretty sure that since I have FQs of all the fabrics in question (at least for
the top) I should be able to adjust things creatively enough to make up for the fact that I don't have 1/8 yd of a full
length/width of a bolt for strip piecing for the 4 patches --- I'll just have more than one strip pieced set to make up
for it, right?????? bumming about the knee and lack of productivity today (I did sit in on one of DH's basic chem
classes today, took notes, think I saw a student cheating on a quiz but can't prove it -- however, I have used my years
of educator experience to let DH know how he can eliminate any likelihood of what I *think* I saw repeating itself so
the situation doesn't arise again in the future) I wanna sew, I wanna sew, I wanna sew.....=( T. [/quote:67769704c6]
Last summer I fracture my right foot. I didn't do anything stupid like bungee jumping, all I did was take a step and
heard a pop. I was told no long distance walking and to keep off of it and it elevated as much as possible. Well that
was my "sewing" foot. I was bound and determined to learn to sew with the other one. And actually it wasn't
hard at all. took about an hour to get use to it. All I did was put it on the other side of the sewing machine and
went to town! I'm back to the right foot now, but every once in a while when it gives me trouble I switch. Get back to
sewin'!!!! Marie

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View entire thread: VENT: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!
Posted by Jessamy on Mon Sep 18, 2006 8:04 PM    Post subject: Re: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!

(((Tricia))) I can and have used my left foot for sewing - it can be done just practice on some scraps first ;-) if
you can drive you have already used that left foot if you have a non automatic car ;-) -- Jessamy In The Netherlands
Take out: _I love the colour_ to reply. www.geocities.com/jessamy_thompson
http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jessamy_thompson/my_photos ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Well, I went
to my cousin's wedding this weekend downstate....nice enough considering I didn't really feel like I was a part of
things (and had a bad turn out of guest messages for her wedding gift but oh well, I'll figure something
out).....anywhoo..... Danced up a storm, although admittedly not as much as I normally would have as DH was tired and
knowing he would be doing the driving back north the next day to get us home had him taking it easy. Now I've got my
right knee wrapped in an ACE bandage (my sewing pedal leg!) because two years ago some nut job wanted a ride in an
ambulance so much she rear-ended DH and I and my knee went WHACK! into the dash. We all assumed I was only bruised and
indeed with some excercises prescribed to me by my doctor my knee got to feeling better -- except for things like the
changing weather and when I do things like dance (which I LIKE to do). Unfortunately, we had no idea it would be so
lingering/reoccuring until after the claim deadline (so I can't even get reimb'd for the aggravation of days like
yesterday and today). So I hobbled into work this morning to get my check and find out the schedule for the week and
the boss lady gave me my check and sent me home, telling me to put my leg up and call it was better because I wasn't
gonna be able to do the job until I was more mobile. So no work....not the end of the world for today, I could really
use some downtime after being on the run for a very emotional weekend....I need the downtime today that even the loss of
potential hours and income doesn't bother me too much but..... I am bumming big time because (besides the pain
associated with walking) I was all geared to come back north here and get to work on a project for my mom (one of my
Finishers 2006 goals). I had decided on what I wanted to do Thursday evening as I was getting off shift at work, well
inspired by the patterns I was looking at there at the shop, etc. Well, I couldn't do it Thursday because I had to do
laundry and pack for the trip. We left right after errands and DH's classes were done on Friday (wasn't even worth
trying to take the machine with us -- I *knew* I wouldn't have any time downstate this trip), so last night and/or today
was going to be the first chance I had to get rolling on this and I can't use my machine because of my friggin' knee and
I can't stand to rotary my fabric for this either. I'm so upset about the woman who did this to me and will never know
the lingering effects of what she did to get a fix for her ambulance addiction (admittedly, I never spoke to the woman
but the emergency responder who I spoke to at the scene let me know that the woman "likes" to ride in
ambulances and that they had just picked her up on a call the night before and she hit us just after leaving the
hospital). Actually, I'm not upset about her per se but more that because of a stranger's actions to satisfy an
addiction, I'm left to pay the consequences. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! Anyone ever train themselves to use their
non-dominant leg with the sewing machine pedal? Was it hard? Any tips for me? Anyway, the project I have in mind for
my mom is a whole new experience for me in many regards--- 1. it will include triangles that are NOT PP'd 2. it doesn't
have neat 90 degree corner angles in the finished product 3. will be the first thing from conception to completion that
will be for "use" (meaning likely to get dirty and therefore need to really be washable) rather than just to
hang on the wall looking pretty (this one is meant to sit on a table/desk and look pretty instead *snicker*) 4.
following a pattern that isn't PP'd and isn't just a throw together as I go along 5. I will *probably* use Warm and
Natural for the first time unless I decide to use a length of flannel in there instead for a dense
batting......hmmm......flannel is probably too costly....ah, decisions, decisions..... It's a table runner comprised of
triangles, plain squares, and 4 patch squares placed in such a manner where the 4 patch squares run down the long center
of the runner and the triangles fill the side gaps and on either side of the 4 patches are the plains. at least that's
what my memory recalls...I have to go find my jotted notes in my purse from when I sketched them out at work on Thursday
waiting for DH to come pick me up. I'm pretty sure that since I have FQs of all the fabrics in question (at least for
the top) I should be able to adjust things creatively enough to make up for the fact that I don't have 1/8 yd of a full
length/width of a bolt for strip piecing for the 4 patches --- I'll just have more than one strip pieced set to make up
for it, right?????? bumming about the knee and lack of productivity today (I did sit in on one of DH's basic chem
classes today, took notes, think I saw a student cheating on a quiz but can't prove it -- however, I have used my years
of educator experience to let DH know how he can eliminate any likelihood of what I *think* I saw repeating itself so
the situation doesn't arise again in the future) I wanna sew, I wanna sew, I wanna sew.....=( T.

back to top


View entire thread: VENT: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!
Posted by Tricia on Mon Sep 18, 2006 7:51 PM    Post subject: VENT: Not quilting, Not working...GRRRR!

Well, I went to my cousin's wedding this weekend downstate....nice enough considering I didn't really feel like I was a
part of things (and had a bad turn out of guest messages for her wedding gift but oh well, I'll figure something
out).....anywhoo..... Danced up a storm, although admittedly not as much as I normally would have as DH was tired and
knowing he would be doing the driving back north the next day to get us home had him taking it easy. Now I've got my
right knee wrapped in an ACE bandage (my sewing pedal leg!) because two years ago some nut job wanted a ride in an
ambulance so much she rear-ended DH and I and my knee went WHACK! into the dash. We all assumed I was only bruised and
indeed with some excercises prescribed to me by my doctor my knee got to feeling better -- except for things like the
changing weather and when I do things like dance (which I LIKE to do). Unfortunately, we had no idea it would be so
lingering/reoccuring until after the claim deadline (so I can't even get reimb'd for the aggravation of days like
yesterday and today). So I hobbled into work this morning to get my check and find out the schedule for the week and
the boss lady gave me my check and sent me home, telling me to put my leg up and call it was better because I wasn't
gonna be able to do the job until I was more mobile. So no work....not the end of the world for today, I could really
use some downtime after being on the run for a very emotional weekend....I need the downtime today that even the loss of
potential hours and income doesn't bother me too much but..... I am bumming big time because (besides the pain
associated with walking) I was all geared to come back north here and get to work on a project for my mom (one of my
Finishers 2006 goals). I had decided on what I wanted to do Thursday evening as I was getting off shift at work, well
inspired by the patterns I was looking at there at the shop, etc. Well, I couldn't do it Thursday because I had to do
laundry and pack for the trip. We left right after errands and DH's classes were done on Friday (wasn't even worth
trying to take the machine with us -- I *knew* I wouldn't have any time downstate this trip), so last night and/or today
was going to be the first chance I had to get rolling on this and I can't use my machine because of my friggin' knee and
I can't stand to rotary my fabric for this either. I'm so upset about the woman who did this to me and will never know
the lingering effects of what she did to get a fix for her ambulance addiction (admittedly, I never spoke to the woman
but the emergency responder who I spoke to at the scene let me know that the woman "likes" to ride in
ambulances and that they had just picked her up on a call the night before and she hit us just after leaving the
hospital). Actually, I'm not upset about her per se but more that because of a stranger's actions to satisfy an
addiction, I'm left to pay the consequences. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! Anyone ever train themselves to use their
non-dominant leg with the sewing machine pedal? Was it hard? Any tips for me? Anyway, the project I have in mind for
my mom is a whole new experience for me in many regards--- 1. it will include triangles that are NOT PP'd 2. it doesn't
have neat 90 degree corner angles in the finished product 3. will be the first thing from conception to completion that
will be for "use" (meaning likely to get dirty and therefore need to really be washable) rather than just to
hang on the wall looking pretty (this one is meant to sit on a table/desk and look pretty instead *snicker*) 4.
following a pattern that isn't PP'd and isn't just a throw together as I go along 5. I will *probably* use Warm and
Natural for the first time unless I decide to use a length of flannel in there instead for a dense
batting......hmmm......flannel is probably too costly....ah, decisions, decisions..... It's a table runner comprised of
triangles, plain squares, and 4 patch squares placed in such a manner where the 4 patch squares run down the long center
of the runner and the triangles fill the side gaps and on either side of the 4 patches are the plains. at least that's
what my memory recalls...I have to go find my jotted notes in my purse from when I sketched them out at work on Thursday
waiting for DH to come pick me up. I'm pretty sure that since I have FQs of all the fabrics in question (at least for
the top) I should be able to adjust things creatively enough to make up for the fact that I don't have 1/8 yd of a full
length/width of a bolt for strip piecing for the 4 patches --- I'll just have more than one strip pieced set to make up
for it, right?????? bumming about the knee and lack of productivity today (I did sit in on one of DH's basic chem
classes today, took notes, think I saw a student cheating on a quiz but can't prove it -- however, I have used my years
of educator experience to let DH know how he can eliminate any likelihood of what I *think* I saw repeating itself so
the situation doesn't arise again in the future) I wanna sew, I wanna sew, I wanna sew.....=( T.

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View entire thread: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?
Posted by teleflora on Tue Jul 11, 2006 10:18 PM    Post subject: Re: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?

Yeah, I could have used a friend too! Or a firing squad. The first thing I tried was a Vogue pattern that wasn't
very clear. I cut out and heavily embroidered the tiny little bodice and then realized that I was supposed to do the
pintucks first. It's hard to pick white embroidery out of fine batiste. I pretty much gave up after that. I'll do it
again sometime though. Cindy "Polly Esther" <mistercleen@mindspring.com> wrote in message
news:6iEsg.7035$cd3.1046@newsread3.news.pas.earthlink.net... [quote:b04df47069]I've just run into such surprising and
ridiculous challenges. The pattern calls for a base yoke of fine-gauge English cotton netting. I marked the yoke with
a washout pen, then stitched around the marking with silk thread. In an abundance of caution, I dipped the netting in
cool water and let it dry. It dried about 30% smaller than I started with. I sure could use a friend in this creation.
Polly "Taria" <tariawilson@verizon.net> wrote in message news:qRDsg.18806$LS6.6747@trnddc03... When I
saw the heading my first thought was Polly does that kind of thing. : ) I took a class years ago and did some simple
heirloom stuff but we are talking really basic. Certainly someone here can help. Taria Polly Esther wrote: I am
wading into a new territory using fine gauge English netting with entredeux, beading, silk ribbon and laces. I don't
want to bore the rest of the group here to pieces. Are there any of you here that do heirloom sewing? (I realize that
some heirloom stitching is never going to rise to the level of becoming an heirloom, that's just what it's called.)
Polly [/quote:b04df47069]

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View entire thread: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?
Posted by Val on Tue Jul 11, 2006 9:39 AM    Post subject: Re: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?

I do a lot of heirloom sewing and just sent you an email, Polly. Val "Polly Esther"
<mistercleen@mindspring.com> wrote in message news:6iEsg.7035$cd3.1046@newsread3.news.pas.earthlink.net...
[quote:9468176be0]I've just run into such surprising and ridiculous challenges. The pattern calls for a base yoke of
fine-gauge English cotton netting. I marked the yoke with a washout pen, then stitched around the marking with silk
thread. In an abundance of caution, I dipped the netting in cool water and let it dry. It dried about 30% smaller than
I started with. I sure could use a friend in this creation. Polly "Taria" <tariawilson@verizon.net>
wrote in message news:qRDsg.18806$LS6.6747@trnddc03... When I saw the heading my first thought was Polly does that kind
of thing. : ) I took a class years ago and did some simple heirloom stuff but we are talking really basic. Certainly
someone here can help. Taria Polly Esther wrote: I am wading into a new territory using fine gauge English netting
with entredeux, beading, silk ribbon and laces. I don't want to bore the rest of the group here to pieces. Are there
any of you here that do heirloom sewing? (I realize that some heirloom stitching is never going to rise to the level of
becoming an heirloom, that's just what it's called.) Polly [/quote:9468176be0]

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View entire thread: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?
Posted by Polly Esther on Tue Jul 11, 2006 3:46 AM    Post subject: Re: OT Any heirloom dress stitchers here?

I've just run into such surprising and ridiculous challenges. The pattern calls for a base yoke of fine-gauge English
cotton netting. I marked the yoke with a washout pen, then stitched around the marking with silk thread. In an
abundance of caution, I dipped the netting in cool water and let it dry. It dried about 30% smaller than I started
with. I sure could use a friend in this creation. Polly "Taria" <tariawilson@verizon.net> wrote in
message news:qRDsg.18806$LS6.6747@trnddc03... [quote:5b0e98ca7a]When I saw the heading my first thought was Polly does
that kind of thing. : ) I took a class years ago and did some simple heirloom stuff but we are talking really basic.
Certainly someone here can help. Taria Polly Esther wrote: I am wading into a new territory using fine gauge English
netting with entredeux, beading, silk ribbon and laces. I don't want to bore the rest of the group here to pieces.
Are there any of you here that do heirloom sewing? (I realize that some heirloom stitching is never going to rise to
the level of becoming an heirloom, that's just what it's called.) Polly [/quote:5b0e98ca7a]

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View entire thread: Zippers into Pillowcases?
Posted by Lisa on Fri Oct 06, 2006 1:26 PM    Post subject: Re: Zippers into Pillowcases?

It is easier if the zipper goes in FIRST. See http://members.aol.com/plotherbs/pillowcaseindex.html for some basic
directions. Substitute your own dimensions, of course. HTH, Lisa puckle wrote: [quote:dba5b8fdbd]Hello Everyone. At
the risk of sounding like a complete 'outsider' - I'm writing this from the United Kingdom, in sunny Gloucestershire, in
England - what's the best way of putting a zip along the end of a pillowcase cover? I have a sewing machine, and I'd
like the zip to run the length of one edge of the pillowcase... Does the zip go in last of all? Any help or diagrams
would be much appreciated!! Thanks. Narjas[/quote:dba5b8fdbd]

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View entire thread: FS:The Home Machineist's handbook $15
Posted by Scott on Fri Oct 06, 2006 2:53 AM    Post subject: FS:The Home Machineist's handbook $15

The Home Machineist's handbook. Mostly concerns Sherline lathes. By Doug Briney Heres everything the do-it-yourselfer
needs to setup, and operate a handy-mans machine shop. Areas covered range from shop requirements and proper lighting to
buying, using and storing tools. Ideal for the hobbyist, home handyman, and inventor, this book shows you how to work
with basic hand tools and how to read shop drawings. There are also step-by-step instructions, photographs, and a whole
range of project plans! Youll learn how to make metal parts for cars, boats, model trains, guns, cameras, clocks, sewing
machines, and more! With this how-to handbook at your side you can make inexpensive machine tools - like a jack and
clamp, ball peen hammer, milling machine - and tackle building a replica of a sixteenth century ships cannon. Contact
Scott at Shakascaregiver@aol.com

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View entire thread: OT-Cheryl and Ellice
Posted by ellice on Fri Oct 27, 2006 2:24 PM    Post subject: Re: OT-Cheryl and Ellice

On 10/26/06 5:05 PM, "Donna" <needlearts@gmail.com> wrote: [quote:f750045f92]Sounds like you're living
a real life Project Runway. [/quote:f750045f92] LOL - it does feel that way. I've been a little disappointed with this
class, but they let a couple of students in that likely shouldn't be taking this class. They should just be doing the
"bridge" class - on how to use a custom sloper (fit garment/pattern) to fit a commercial pattern (make the
alterations to the commercial one so it fits perfectly). In this class it's about implementing an original design - how
to draft the pattern starting with the basic fit one. We've had to spend too much time explaining really simple
basics, and listening to the 2 wacky women - ok, only 1 is really wacky - the other differently wacky - who keep
interrupting with irrelevant stories, or the like. Last night the instructor came over and whispered "Ellice - I
really missed you last week - just to talk to" . Anyhow - I learned something really neat. I had about 4 sketches,
and we liked 2 of them a lot. Then I pulled out the last issue of THREADS - which has an amazing Devore velvet top on
the rear cover - kind of deep V neck, and a ruched empire waist. So, I re-sketched and decided to do a waistband that
is lower in the back, and then curves around and up - not quite empire, but with the ruching, which will then fall to
lightly skim/float (not pregnancy big) down to the high hip. (hips big - don't want to expand out - I do better in
cropped, shorter jackets, etc) Anyhow - I was thinking of a sleeve that would be a bit asymetric - and voila - teacher
asked if I knew about "hanging sleeves" - HUH? My brilliant answer. Turns out, its a sleeve that basically
encircles the arm at the top, but is open such that it's only on the back side - somewhere from up on your bicep, or at
the elbow - or however you design it. Very interesting - so I made some 1/4 scale patterns, and played with them - and
it's a little bit Renaissance looking - very cool - and will drape differently depending on the placement of the true
bias vs straight of grain. Of course now I have an excuse to go use today's 30% off at G-street - I'm going to try and
find some nice, soft velvet (drapey) for this, else maybe a silk. It's going to be a "dress-up" top (don't
think I want to do a long dress, though it's possible). Last night - and I was at the bigger G-Street (not the one
nearer the new house) all I could quickly find was $40-$50/yd velvet - and even at 30% I'm not doing that - since I'm
going to end up estimating the fabric. [quote:f750045f92] And for all you fans, you've got to visit the Project Rungay
blog. I can't believe I first found out about this blog from Newsweek of all places.
http://www.projectrungay.blogspot.com Nothing like men with a fine appreciation of a well-placed embroidery detail....
[/quote:f750045f92] Oh, so true. Gives you some hope for all our SOs and DHs. There is however a backlash- at times
now it appears that DH has paid attention - as opposed to the glazed over look he usually gets when I talk about some of
this stuff. Last week he joined me on the B-day Scarlet Thread jaunt - and actually was talking stock and threads with
one of the owners. Then he suddenly looked up and said "Oh, my G_D ... I know about this ....AAAAGGGHHHH" and
all of us women laughed. OTOH, he also noted on one of my samplers that the blackwork area - which was off by 1 thread
- was off and not up to my "usual standards" - so I pulled it and redid. Same piece - there's a double row of
4-sided stitch, and he wasn't sure if it was all pulled exactly the same....Argh. I told him it was fine and when the
piece is stretched for framing or bellpull it will be just fine. [quote:f750045f92] Donna in Virginia
[/quote:f750045f92] Ellice - also in Virgina [quote:f750045f92] ellice wrote: On 10/26/06 7:55 AM, "Donna"
<needlearts@gmail.com> wrote: Cheryl Isaak wrote: It's not listed on her site or on Amazon or Barnes and
Noble..... Sigh Amazon does have a slot for "Temeraire" (hard cover). I purposely didn't read the
"preview" chapter at the end of #3. No sense getting myself worked up. It's kind of like waiting for the
next go round in the Song of Ice and Fire series. Song of Fire and Ice. Ah. The good thing is when the last book was
delayed and delayed and delayed again, it was because he being forced to split it into two books. So the next book was
nearly halfway written when A Feast For Crows was published. I read his blog on livejournal. My kids are huge fans and
talk about Martin's characters like they are real people (sometimes to my husband's confusion...) Donna in Virginia
Doesn't everyone? FWIW - I wasn't worried about being forgotten by anybody - Tegan ;^) And am a little slack on
getting to the PO with some promised stuff heading to NH myself. Been busy sewing - with the machine for a change.
Anyhow - I have sewing "design" class tonight, and am way, way, behind - so I'm going to drag myself to the
other room, and then out to the truck which has my big roll of drafting paper, and come back in, and take over the dr
table and try to finish drafting this stupid pattern so I can make the muslin, so I can fit in on self, so I can then
redraw the pattern so I can then bring the correct, real, pattern pieces to class so I can whip up some stupid, or not
so stupid, design for an interesting top, so that if I'm lucky I can then get that muslin laid out. Sure, I can get the
first muslin made and fitted by 5 or so. No problem, HAH. Well, at least the machine is working well. I did pretty
much finish my knitting needle case - which I decided to dash off and then turned into a auilted back, with a strip-
pieced flap, and, well, of course it's more complicated than it should've been. But, on this topic - I made some
needlebooks out of the left over atrip pieces. They're kind of cute - little quiltied outers, and inside, a piece of
cotton batting backed on fabric - the needles will go into the batting. So, when Cheryl gets hers - she can say if she
likes it - I'm thinking of refining and then adding this to the fob collection for when I finallyhave the business
selling some pieces. And the website re-up, and my new stupid Loudoun county business licesnse in hand (waiting on the
permit from the Homeowners Asso). Now - back to the previously interrupted chat.... ellice [/quote:f750045f92]

back to top


View entire thread: OT: Clothing Pattern Sizes?
Posted by Pati Cook on Thu Jun 22, 2006 8:47 PM    Post subject: Re: OT: Clothing Pattern Sizes?

Actually, the basic sizing is standardized, what is not is the amount of ease allowed in the pattern. Most patterns
have to have some ease to allow you to move/breathe and so on. Very stretchy knits don't need much, if any ease, very
crisp fabrics usually need more ease. That is why patterns that are designated for knits only don't work well in
wovens and patterns designed for wovens may feel way to big when made in a stretchy (even moderately stretchy) knit.
<G> Clothes are much more complicated than quilts, but I love sewing them. <G> Then there is the style
ease that is added to patterns. Things like "big shirts" have a lot more ease than a more fitted shirt and
so on. Best thing to do is to measure the pattern against your measurements to see what is what. If you have something
that fits the way you like, then measure that garment in the same places as you measure the pattern. It will get you
close to right. If in doubt, make it bigger. You can more easily take in most places than let them out. <VBG> I
really wish I had a way to help all of you that have problems to figure them out in person. Sigh. It is so simple once
you know what to do. May take some time, but the results is so worth it. Pati, in Phx NightMist wrote:
[quote:5219234aa2]On Wed, 21 Jun 2006 12:49:49 -0500, "dogmom" amy@squirrel-solutions.com> wrote:
Dagnabit, I KNOW I saw a link for this just recently but didn't save it--do any of y'all know where I can go to get the
measurements for clothing patterns which are ACCURATE? If I sew a dress the size indicated by measurements on the
pattern envelope, it's so big I can swim in it. I'm not sure the link was posted on this group but you guys know
everything, for which I am always so grateful... Is this what you were looking for?
http://www.fibergypsy.com/Charts_and_Other_Helpful_Resources/Size_and_Measurement_Charts/ However as others have
pointed out, standard sizing seems to have gone right out the window over the past couple of decades. When I buy a
pattern anymore I figure that the measurements are merely vague sort of general suggestions, and assume from the start
that I am going to have to do alterations. It's rather freeing actually, if I see something I like and they only have
it a size or so too large or too small I buy it anyway because hey, I have to alter it anyhow. NightMist doing a lot of
her own pattern drafting anymore.[/quote:5219234aa2]

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View entire thread: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching
Posted by teleflora on Mon Oct 23, 2006 3:04 AM    Post subject: Re: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching

Ok, I'm exhausted just reading your list. This is why I stopped with one kid and was sooooo thankful she didn't like
to sweat! I'd have been berzerk running around like that to different practices. Ballet and piano were bad enough!
So you live in 'Derry? Cindy >HUGE Stephen King Fan! "Cheryl Isaak" <cherylisaak@adelphia.net>
wrote in message news:C160E5DF.60F19%cherylisaak@adelphia.net... [quote:91889a740b] So, let me describe my week, so
far - a thankfully light one. DH is out of town; he's in Salt Lake City Utah at the meeting of the American Jewish
Genealogical Society. AND both children are playing travel hockey. So - Wednesday, I drove DH to the airport to drop
him off for his flight. Drove back to Londonderry and went looking for "hoodies" (aka hooded sweatshirts) for
DS. Cell phone rings - it's DH. He forgot to remove his Swiss Army knife, a gift from his late father. Run back to
airport, pick up knife, drive home for about an hour. Load truck with DS's gear, go to Dunkin Donuts for an egg and
cheese sandwich. Go to HS, pick up DS, drive to Hookset NH for "Captain's Practice" for the high school team.
Go shop, get bored shopping go back to rink to wait. Neighbor, who's son also plays hockey, offers DS a ride home. Go
back toward home, pick up the hoodies I had held from interrupted trip to Marshall's (a discount clothing store). Also
find under armor for DD and a gorgeous, silky black turtleneck for me. And a box of chocolates from neighbor who's been
watching DD. Thursday - Drive north to Manchester; first stop - pick up supplies for DD's Halloween school project.
Pick up DD's travel team jerseys from Silver Graphics (they do all the sewing and such for our league). Drop off DS's
coat for stitching. Drive to Nashua to pick up DH's magazine at Barnes and Nobles (gee how did those extra books get in
there). Stop at grocery store for basic supplies. Go home. Drive to HS, get DS, drive home, load truck with both sets of
hockey gear, drive to DD's school. Have fun surprising his old teacher and get DD. Get fast food. Drive to rink for back
to back practices. Hand out jerseys to girls team. Watch little girls float on air as they see their (last) name
emblazoned on a travel "sweater" for the very first time. Finish the ground work for a door plate for DD's
team. Meet with team Mom for DS's team; have brain picked over best hotel in Lake Placid for tournament in Feb. Help
DD study for spelling test. Home - about 9 PM - I left home about 2:45 PM. Haul stinky gears in house for washing. Done
Friday - easy day - never left the house. Girl friend came over for coffee, did laundry, stitched, ordered pizza for the
kids and a salad for me DELIVERED Saturday - leave home at 8:45 AM for DD's first ice time. She skates from 9:45 until
11 AM, hangs in locker room with team, while I collect jerseys for screening their names on prior to big game at
Monarchs next weekend. We leave (with her in her gear, minus skates, gloves and helmets) for a quick snack of soup and
bread at Panera. Go back to rink for practice with her travel team - for 1.5 hours. Work on door sign. Then best buddy
and DD want to stay for public skate. Finally leave rink at 3:30. Drive home. Get her gear out of truck to make room for
his. Toss in load of laundry. Drive him to a different, further away rink for a TWO HOUR and 15 MINUTE practice. See one
of his old coaches; shoot the breeze with them. Leave, go get light dinner with DD. Drive back to rink watch some of
practice. Stitch. Try to make balloon animals with DD. Watch practice. Stitch. Wait for DS to get out of shower.... Home
- about 9:30 PM. Today - I'll let you know! She's on ice at 4:30 PM, he's on at 8 PM and the rinks are about 30
minutes apart. He likes an hour to get into his "game head". I do have a parent bringing him home. Monday's
errand list is growing! And I need a babysitter two nights next week. Cheryl [/quote:91889a740b]

back to top


View entire thread: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching
Posted by Pat P on Sun Oct 22, 2006 6:05 PM    Post subject: Re: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching

"Cheryl Isaak" <cherylisaak@adelphia.net> wrote in message
news:C160E5DF.60F19%cherylisaak@adelphia.net... [quote:dd90fbc106] So, let me describe my week, so far - a thankfully
light one. DH is out of town; he's in Salt Lake City Utah at the meeting of the American Jewish Genealogical Society.
AND both children are playing travel hockey. So - Wednesday, I drove DH to the airport to drop him off for his
flight. Drove back to Londonderry and went looking for "hoodies" (aka hooded sweatshirts) for DS. Cell phone
rings - it's DH. He forgot to remove his Swiss Army knife, a gift from his late father. Run back to airport, pick up
knife, drive home for about an hour. Load truck with DS's gear, go to Dunkin Donuts for an egg and cheese sandwich. Go
to HS, pick up DS, drive to Hookset NH for "Captain's Practice" for the high school team. Go shop, get bored
shopping go back to rink to wait. Neighbor, who's son also plays hockey, offers DS a ride home. Go back toward home,
pick up the hoodies I had held from interrupted trip to Marshall's (a discount clothing store). Also find under armor
for DD and a gorgeous, silky black turtleneck for me. And a box of chocolates from neighbor who's been watching DD.
Thursday - Drive north to Manchester; first stop - pick up supplies for DD's Halloween school project. Pick up DD's
travel team jerseys from Silver Graphics (they do all the sewing and such for our league). Drop off DS's coat for
stitching. Drive to Nashua to pick up DH's magazine at Barnes and Nobles (gee how did those extra books get in there).
Stop at grocery store for basic supplies. Go home. Drive to HS, get DS, drive home, load truck with both sets of hockey
gear, drive to DD's school. Have fun surprising his old teacher and get DD. Get fast food. Drive to rink for back to
back practices. Hand out jerseys to girls team. Watch little girls float on air as they see their (last) name
emblazoned on a travel "sweater" for the very first time. Finish the ground work for a door plate for DD's
team. Meet with team Mom for DS's team; have brain picked over best hotel in Lake Placid for tournament in Feb. Help
DD study for spelling test. Home - about 9 PM - I left home about 2:45 PM. Haul stinky gears in house for washing. Done
Friday - easy day - never left the house. Girl friend came over for coffee, did laundry, stitched, ordered pizza for the
kids and a salad for me DELIVERED Saturday - leave home at 8:45 AM for DD's first ice time. She skates from 9:45 until
11 AM, hangs in locker room with team, while I collect jerseys for screening their names on prior to big game at
Monarchs next weekend. We leave (with her in her gear, minus skates, gloves and helmets) for a quick snack of soup and
bread at Panera. Go back to rink for practice with her travel team - for 1.5 hours. Work on door sign. Then best buddy
and DD want to stay for public skate. Finally leave rink at 3:30. Drive home. Get her gear out of truck to make room for
his. Toss in load of laundry. Drive him to a different, further away rink for a TWO HOUR and 15 MINUTE practice. See one
of his old coaches; shoot the breeze with them. Leave, go get light dinner with DD. Drive back to rink watch some of
practice. Stitch. Try to make balloon animals with DD. Watch practice. Stitch. Wait for DS to get out of shower.... Home
- about 9:30 PM. Today - I'll let you know! She's on ice at 4:30 PM, he's on at 8 PM and the rinks are about 30
minutes apart. He likes an hour to get into his "game head". I do have a parent bringing him home. Monday's
errand list is growing! And I need a babysitter two nights next week. Cheryl [/quote:dd90fbc106] Phew - thank the Lord
we don`t do all that any more!!! I`m worn out reading it! In our case it was when DS was in the Sea Cadets Band,
which meant chasing all over the country with them - we set up and ran their canteen, too! It was three or four nights
a week and Sundays cadets and band practice - two nights a week trumpet lessons for DS, and wherever the Band was
doing displays and band contests, particularly in the summer. In between (???) we used to organise discos for the kids
AND for the adults and fund-raising for instruments and gear for the band. I can`t imagine how we survived several
years of this - but we loved it! Oh yes - I used to have a full time job and breed Siamese, too, which meant half a
dozen cats and sometimes a dozen or more kittens to look after ( the record was 17!!!) - plus any visiting Queens who
came to stud!!! There MUST have been 36 hours in a day at that time! Pat

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View entire thread: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching
Posted by Lucille on Sun Oct 22, 2006 2:28 PM    Post subject: Re: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching

"Cheryl Isaak" <cherylisaak@adelphia.net> wrote in message
news:C160E5DF.60F19%cherylisaak@adelphia.net... [quote:1a9a6fff1a] So, let me describe my week, so far - a thankfully
light one. DH is out of town; he's in Salt Lake City Utah at the meeting of the American Jewish Genealogical Society.
AND both children are playing travel hockey. So - Wednesday, I drove DH to the airport to drop him off for his
flight. Drove back to Londonderry and went looking for "hoodies" (aka hooded sweatshirts) for DS. Cell phone
rings - it's DH. He forgot to remove his Swiss Army knife, a gift from his late father. Run back to airport, pick up
knife, drive home for about an hour. Load truck with DS's gear, go to Dunkin Donuts for an egg and cheese sandwich. Go
to HS, pick up DS, drive to Hookset NH for "Captain's Practice" for the high school team. Go shop, get bored
shopping go back to rink to wait. Neighbor, who's son also plays hockey, offers DS a ride home. Go back toward home,
pick up the hoodies I had held from interrupted trip to Marshall's (a discount clothing store). Also find under armor
for DD and a gorgeous, silky black turtleneck for me. And a box of chocolates from neighbor who's been watching DD.
Thursday - Drive north to Manchester; first stop - pick up supplies for DD's Halloween school project. Pick up DD's
travel team jerseys from Silver Graphics (they do all the sewing and such for our league). Drop off DS's coat for
stitching. Drive to Nashua to pick up DH's magazine at Barnes and Nobles (gee how did those extra books get in there).
Stop at grocery store for basic supplies. Go home. Drive to HS, get DS, drive home, load truck with both sets of hockey
gear, drive to DD's school. Have fun surprising his old teacher and get DD. Get fast food. Drive to rink for back to
back practices. Hand out jerseys to girls team. Watch little girls float on air as they see their (last) name
emblazoned on a travel "sweater" for the very first time. Finish the ground work for a door plate for DD's
team. Meet with team Mom for DS's team; have brain picked over best hotel in Lake Placid for tournament in Feb. Help
DD study for spelling test. Home - about 9 PM - I left home about 2:45 PM. Haul stinky gears in house for washing. Done
Friday - easy day - never left the house. Girl friend came over for coffee, did laundry, stitched, ordered pizza for the
kids and a salad for me DELIVERED Saturday - leave home at 8:45 AM for DD's first ice time. She skates from 9:45 until
11 AM, hangs in locker room with team, while I collect jerseys for screening their names on prior to big game at
Monarchs next weekend. We leave (with her in her gear, minus skates, gloves and helmets) for a quick snack of soup and
bread at Panera. Go back to rink for practice with her travel team - for 1.5 hours. Work on door sign. Then best buddy
and DD want to stay for public skate. Finally leave rink at 3:30. Drive home. Get her gear out of truck to make room for
his. Toss in load of laundry. Drive him to a different, further away rink for a TWO HOUR and 15 MINUTE practice. See one
of his old coaches; shoot the breeze with them. Leave, go get light dinner with DD. Drive back to rink watch some of
practice. Stitch. Try to make balloon animals with DD. Watch practice. Stitch. Wait for DS to get out of shower.... Home
- about 9:30 PM. Today - I'll let you know! She's on ice at 4:30 PM, he's on at 8 PM and the rinks are about 30
minutes apart. He likes an hour to get into his "game head". I do have a parent bringing him home. Monday's
errand list is growing! And I need a babysitter two nights next week. Cheryl [/quote:1a9a6fff1a] And what are you
going to do in your spare time???? lol Isn't Marshall's the coolest place to shop? I was there yesterday and found
several goodies, none of which I needed. Lucille [quote:1a9a6fff1a] [/quote:1a9a6fff1a]

back to top


View entire thread: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching
Posted by Cheryl Isaak on Sun Oct 22, 2006 2:09 PM    Post subject: Off topic - a little tiny bit of stitching

So, let me describe my week, so far - a thankfully light one. DH is out of town; he's in Salt Lake City Utah at the
meeting of the American Jewish Genealogical Society. AND both children are playing travel hockey. So - Wednesday, I
drove DH to the airport to drop him off for his flight. Drove back to Londonderry and went looking for
"hoodies" (aka hooded sweatshirts) for DS. Cell phone rings - it's DH. He forgot to remove his Swiss Army
knife, a gift from his late father. Run back to airport, pick up knife, drive home for about an hour. Load truck with
DS's gear, go to Dunkin Donuts for an egg and cheese sandwich. Go to HS, pick up DS, drive to Hookset NH for
"Captain's Practice" for the high school team. Go shop, get bored shopping go back to rink to wait. Neighbor,
who's son also plays hockey, offers DS a ride home. Go back toward home, pick up the hoodies I had held from interrupted
trip to Marshall's (a discount clothing store). Also find under armor for DD and a gorgeous, silky black turtleneck for
me. And a box of chocolates from neighbor who's been watching DD. Thursday - Drive north to Manchester; first stop -
pick up supplies for DD's Halloween school project. Pick up DD's travel team jerseys from Silver Graphics (they do all
the sewing and such for our league). Drop off DS's coat for stitching. Drive to Nashua to pick up DH's magazine at
Barnes and Nobles (gee how did those extra books get in there). Stop at grocery store for basic supplies. Go home. Drive
to HS, get DS, drive home, load truck with both sets of hockey gear, drive to DD's school. Have fun surprising his old
teacher and get DD. Get fast food. Drive to rink for back to back practices. Hand out jerseys to girls team. Watch
little girls float on air as they see their (last) name emblazoned on a travel "sweater" for the very first
time. Finish the ground work for a door plate for DD's team. Meet with team Mom for DS's team; have brain picked over
best hotel in Lake Placid for tournament in Feb. Help DD study for spelling test. Home - about 9 PM - I left home about
2:45 PM. Haul stinky gears in house for washing. Done Friday - easy day - never left the house. Girl friend came over
for coffee, did laundry, stitched, ordered pizza for the kids and a salad for me DELIVERED Saturday - leave home at
8:45 AM for DD's first ice time. She skates from 9:45 until 11 AM, hangs in locker room with team, while I collect
jerseys for screening their names on prior to big game at Monarchs next weekend. We leave (with her in her gear, minus
skates, gloves and helmets) for a quick snack of soup and bread at Panera. Go back to rink for practice with her travel
team - for 1.5 hours. Work on door sign. Then best buddy and DD want to stay for public skate. Finally leave rink at
3:30. Drive home. Get her gear out of truck to make room for his. Toss in load of laundry. Drive him to a different,
further away rink for a TWO HOUR and 15 MINUTE practice. See one of his old coaches; shoot the breeze with them. Leave,
go get light dinner with DD. Drive back to rink watch some of practice. Stitch. Try to make balloon animals with DD.
Watch practice. Stitch. Wait for DS to get out of shower.... Home - about 9:30 PM. Today - I'll let you know! She's on
ice at 4:30 PM, he's on at 8 PM and the rinks are about 30 minutes apart. He likes an hour to get into his "game
head". I do have a parent bringing him home. Monday's errand list is growing! And I need a babysitter two nights
next week. Cheryl

back to top


View entire thread: stippling questions
Posted by Julia in MN on Tue Nov 07, 2006 7:30 PM    Post subject: Re: stippling questions

If the feed dogs are down, you really don't need to be concerned with stitch length. Spray basting works well -- it
keeps all layers together nicely and you don't have to worry about hitting a pin. Julia in MN Roberta Zollner wrote:
[quote:7dee68d235]1. Dogs down. (Although on some machines, some people like a bit of traction and leave them up.
Experiment.) 2. No hoop. Baste well with safety pins! (Make sure when you baste that the backing is not stretched. When
you release it, it will snap back and no longer fit the top!) 3. Darning, big foot or "free motion foot". 4.
Stitch length set to 0. 5. Stitch type normal. (You don't want stitch width either.) Tips: Practice! Most people who
have done a certain amount of machine sewing will have a feel for how fast the fabric moves when the needle is going up
and down at a certain speed. So that's about how fast you need to move the fabric sandwich. Slow for curves. You might
have to adjust the top tension -my machine likes to free motion with the top set at the "zipper" setting.
Organize a flat surface around the machine. For a small piece, the acrylic extension table might be enough. For big
pieces, I dream about owning a fancy cabinet and make do with the ironing board at my left and a big extra table behind
the machine to support the weight of the quilt. Use your hands to maneuver the fabric sandwich. Your extended thumbs on
each side of the stitching area will form a little window. Some people get a better grip by wearing garden gloves with
rubber dots. I usually remove the pins from a small area just before quilting it. (You really don't want to stitch over
a safety pin.) Take a break every half hour or so. Remember to breathe and keep your shoulders relaxed. Roberta in D
"Tricia" <cricket527@e-garfield.com> schrieb im Newsbeitrag
news:1162913619.918633.34070@m7g2000cwm.googlegroups.com... okay, co-worker got assigned a model project at work....an
appliqued/blanket stitched santa thing (I havne't seen the final result yet so I'm not sure what to call it...I think it
is a WUH).... Boss wants it stippled, machine in use a Janome that seems a bit on the older side (it's a tad fancier
than my basic Kenmore machine but nothing too fancy if you know what I mean). Co-worker is having some difficulty with
her practice swatches....none of us at work really seem to be able to help her much...we all know theoretically how it
is supposed to happen but making it happen is something altogether different. In discussing this, we discovered that we
have heard different ways of doing it that tend to conflict with the other ways heard so.....(ie I thought walking foot,
someone else thought big foot/darning foot, etc) So, I have questions: 1. feed dogs down or up? 2. Hoop or not? 3.
walking foot or big foot/darning? 4. stitch length setting? 5. stitch type (the other setting next to stitch length)?
any tips, etc.? I next work with the gal in question on Saturday and there is a chance the thing could have been worked
out by then but I'm curious to know what you all have to say about it..... Tricia (not game to try it any time soon
personally) [/quote:7dee68d235] -- This message has been scanned for viruses by Norton Anti-Virus
http://webpages.charter.net/jaccola/

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View entire thread: stippling questions
Posted by Roberta Zollner on Tue Nov 07, 2006 5:26 PM    Post subject: Re: stippling questions

1. Dogs down. (Although on some machines, some people like a bit of traction and leave them up. Experiment.) 2. No
hoop. Baste well with safety pins! (Make sure when you baste that the backing is not stretched. When you release it, it
will snap back and no longer fit the top!) 3. Darning, big foot or "free motion foot". 4. Stitch length set
to 0. 5. Stitch type normal. (You don't want stitch width either.) Tips: Practice! Most people who have done a certain
amount of machine sewing will have a feel for how fast the fabric moves when the needle is going up and down at a
certain speed. So that's about how fast you need to move the fabric sandwich. Slow for curves. You might have to adjust
the top tension -my machine likes to free motion with the top set at the "zipper" setting. Organize a flat
surface around the machine. For a small piece, the acrylic extension table might be enough. For big pieces, I dream
about owning a fancy cabinet and make do with the ironing board at my left and a big extra table behind the machine to
support the weight of the quilt. Use your hands to maneuver the fabric sandwich. Your extended thumbs on each side of
the stitching area will form a little window. Some people get a better grip by wearing garden gloves with rubber dots.
I usually remove the pins from a small area just before quilting it. (You really don't want to stitch over a safety
pin.) Take a break every half hour or so. Remember to breathe and keep your shoulders relaxed. Roberta in D
"Tricia" <cricket527@e-garfield.com> schrieb im Newsbeitrag
news:1162913619.918633.34070@m7g2000cwm.googlegroups.com... [quote:c50e584944]okay, co-worker got assigned a model
project at work....an appliqued/blanket stitched santa thing (I havne't seen the final result yet so I'm not sure what
to call it...I think it is a WUH).... Boss wants it stippled, machine in use a Janome that seems a bit on the older
side (it's a tad fancier than my basic Kenmore machine but nothing too fancy if you know what I mean). Co-worker is
having some difficulty with her practice swatches....none of us at work really seem to be able to help her much...we all
know theoretically how it is supposed to happen but making it happen is something altogether different. In discussing
this, we discovered that we have heard different ways of doing it that tend to conflict with the other ways heard
so.....(ie I thought walking foot, someone else thought big foot/darning foot, etc) So, I have questions: 1. feed dogs
down or up? 2. Hoop or not? 3. walking foot or big foot/darning? 4. stitch length setting? 5. stitch type (the other
setting next to stitch length)? any tips, etc.? I next work with the gal in question on Saturday and there is a chance
the thing could have been worked out by then but I'm curious to know what you all have to say about it..... Tricia (not
game to try it any time soon personally) [/quote:c50e584944]

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Posted by Anonymous on Tue Oct 24, 2006 8:15 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

You all are making me wish I had kept my mother's old Brother from the late 40's now, it was heavy as lead and I could
barely lift it when it was in the case. Shortly before she passed away I was cleaning house and had to move it and I
looked at her and said, "I wish we had someplace else to store this thing, it breaks my back to move it." My
mother informed me to ask Becky if she wanted it, that's one of my sisters and the one that did learn to sew quite well.
Needless to say she jumped at it although I had bought her a new Singer in the late 70's early 80's she said that
mother's machine was much better. She didn't even leave it at our house until I fussed for her to take it home. Every
thing else she gets she leaves here forever. I have begged her to take Mother's Blue Willow dishes home but to no
avail, they are still here. BTW, don't think I am crazy to give up Blue Willow, but I have my grandmother's set and I
have another set of my mother's china, then I have my every day dishes and my china and a set of Magnolia stoneware,
more dishes than anyone person needs. Anyway you all have convinced me that I might just ask her if she is using the
machine and if not go get it if she will let me. Jacqueline On 24 Oct 2006 06:59:37 -0700, "Sunny"
<shemphill@genext.net> wrote: [quote:c94c473ee3]I have a little box of old Singer attachments, including a
walking foot. They don't fit my Janome and I doubt I'll ever buy a Singer. (Caveat: they don't fit my friend's new,
shiney and terribly expensive Singer with embroidery function). I would be really happy to pass them on to you for the
cost of postage. Send me a private email and we can exchange details and get these on the way. I've refused to throw
them away, refused to give them to a friend who "collects" and then resells on eBay, refused to give them to
Goodwill. I would b e really glad to see them go to a good home with a beginning quilter who will put them to good use.
And yes, do keep that old Singer. Take it and have it cleaned and tuned up. Keep it well oiled and dusted. And it will
probably do almost everything you want for a long time. As I contemplate buying a new machine, I find myself wishing my
mom had kept her old "Singer from the early '70s. Sunny Washington State Linda F wrote: I am a new quilter
(just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I was not machine sewer prior
to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking
foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I
purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a different machine - what kind do I need? Any
suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want to spend the life savings on a really high
class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more up-to-date than my
current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any
comments. linda[/quote:c94c473ee3]

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Posted by Roberta Zollner on Tue Oct 24, 2006 4:49 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

Welcome Linda! I second the advice to look into a used machine. Pfaff machines have a built-in top feed, no need for an
extra foot. Hang on to your solid old Singer -those old ladies never die. I have 2 oldies and love them. It's nice to
have an extra machine for a session of piecing when you have the other one set up for quilting. Roberta in D
"Linda F" <lfranklin@mchsi.com> schrieb im Newsbeitrag news:pfe%g.206975$FQ1.168865@attbi_s71...
[quote:72d09b5616]I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue
quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer
sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these
will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a
different machine - what kind do I need? Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want
to spend the life savings on a really high class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for
a few years, be more up-to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to
operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any comments. linda [/quote:72d09b5616]

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Linda F on Tue Oct 24, 2006 4:07 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

Thank you to all of you for this info!!!! Sounds as if the consensus is 'KEEP THE SINGER" at least for a while
and get a cheaper set of feet. I'm working on that. I really look forward to learning from all you folks. linda
"Linda F" <lfranklin@mchsi.com> wrote in message news:pfe%g.206975$FQ1.168865@attbi_s71...
[quote:ea110a62f6]I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue
quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer
sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these
will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a
different machine - what kind do I need? Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want
to spend the life savings on a really high class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for
a few years, be more up-to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to
operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any comments. linda [/quote:ea110a62f6]

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Sunny on Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:59 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

I have a little box of old Singer attachments, including a walking foot. They don't fit my Janome and I doubt I'll ever
buy a Singer. (Caveat: they don't fit my friend's new, shiney and terribly expensive Singer with embroidery function). I
would be really happy to pass them on to you for the cost of postage. Send me a private email and we can exchange
details and get these on the way. I've refused to throw them away, refused to give them to a friend who
"collects" and then resells on eBay, refused to give them to Goodwill. I would b e really glad to see them go
to a good home with a beginning quilter who will put them to good use. And yes, do keep that old Singer. Take it and
have it cleaned and tuned up. Keep it well oiled and dusted. And it will probably do almost everything you want for a
long time. As I contemplate buying a new machine, I find myself wishing my mom had kept her old "Singer from the
early '70s. Sunny Washington State Linda F wrote: [quote:f8f4653cdc]I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first
class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and
currently own a very very old very basic Singer sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot'
attachment for my machine and find that these will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I
get a different sewing machine? If a different machine - what kind do I need? Any suggestions from others would be
most appreciated! (I know I don't want to spend the life savings on a really high class machine, but I would be
interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more up-to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have
a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any comments. linda[/quote:f8f4653cdc]

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Sandy Foster on Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:58 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

In article <pfe%g.206975$FQ1.168865@attbi_s71>, "Linda F" <lfranklin@mchsi.com> wrote:
[quote:e6f11faf76]I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue
quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer
sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these
will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a
different machine - what kind do I need? Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want
to spend the life savings on a really high class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for
a few years, be more up-to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to
operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any comments. linda [/quote:e6f11faf76] I can't add any better advice than
you've already been given, Linda, but welcome to the group! :) For $75 (or less, if you shop around) you'll be getting
what you need to make your old Singer a quilter's dream -- don't get rid of it! <g> As Cheryl said, if your
Singer just isn't doing what you need and isn't easily repairable, look into second-hand machines; anything
inexpensive and new is likely to be so full of plastic that you'll have to replace it within a year or two -- even if
you aren't awfully unhappy with its stitch quality and "cooperation" in the meantime. -- Sandy in
Henderson, near Las Vegas my ISP is earthlink.net -- put sfoster1(at) in front http://home.earthlink.net/~sfoster1 AKA
Dame Sandy, Minister of Education

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Taria on Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:50 PM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

$75 for a walking foot and darning foot is a lot. Check out Chlotilde for servicable ones. Can you id your machine?
Lots of photos on my old page: http://home1.gte.net/res6mc9p/tlw/taria/pages/index.htm Very, very old is a relative
thing ; ) TAria Kate T. wrote: [quote:ed402f4d96]Hey Linda: The best machine to learn to make quilt tops is that
old Singer you already own. I own one made in 1932. Yes it's heavy, I can't take it to quilting quild meetings or
classes BUT it works extremely well when the other basic machines I have won't. I've owned that old war horse for
over 30 years and won't part with it. If you can find a walking foot for it I'd suggest buying it. A walking foot is
an "accessory". It is not usually sold with a basic machine, only high end ones. See if you can get into a
class for beginners where you can get individual attention while learning machine quilting. Maybe they can teach you
how to adjust the pressure on your presser foot and adjust the tension of the shuttle (bobbin) so you can successfully
machine quilt in a straight line and not have to use a walking foot at all. Kate T. South Mississippi Linda F
wrote: I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I
was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer sewing machine.
I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these will cost me over
$75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a different machine - what
kind do I need? Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want to spend the life savings
on a really high class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more up-
to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) Many
thanks for any comments. linda [/quote:ed402f4d96]

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Georg on Tue Oct 24, 2006 11:09 AM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

Linda F wrote: [quote:7559cd000c]I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try
to continue quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very
basic Singer sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find
that these will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If
a different machine - what kind do I need? [/quote:7559cd000c] It's a lot cheaper to just get the feet. Only you can
determine if a new sewing machine would be worth the fuss of getting a new machine. -georg

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Kate T. on Tue Oct 24, 2006 6:29 AM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

Hey Linda: The best machine to learn to make quilt tops is that old Singer you already own. I own one made in 1932.
Yes it's heavy, I can't take it to quilting quild meetings or classes BUT it works extremely well when the other basic
machines I have won't. I've owned that old war horse for over 30 years and won't part with it. If you can find a
walking foot for it I'd suggest buying it. A walking foot is an "accessory". It is not usually sold with a
basic machine, only high end ones. See if you can get into a class for beginners where you can get individual attention
while learning machine quilting. Maybe they can teach you how to adjust the pressure on your presser foot and adjust
the tension of the shuttle (bobbin) so you can successfully machine quilt in a straight line and not have to use a
walking foot at all. Kate T. South Mississippi Linda F wrote: [quote:9eadd140ed]I am a new quilter (just finishing
my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I was not machine sewer prior to this
quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer sewing machine. I am in need of a 'walking foot' and
a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these will cost me over $75. My dilemma is: do I purchase
these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a different machine - what kind do I need? Any suggestions from
others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want to spend the life savings on a really high class machine, but I
would be interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more up-to-date than my current machine, and
perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) Many thanks for any comments.
linda[/quote:9eadd140ed]

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Cats on Tue Oct 24, 2006 3:22 AM    Post subject: Re: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

A "very very old very basic Singer" will probably do most of what you need as a beginner, but if it is a real
pain to work with and you don't want to spend a lot take a look at some good second-hand machines. Over here in OZ I
usually recommend that new sewers looking to upgrade without taking out a mortgage go see a reputable repair place and
see if they have any "reconditioned" machines, as these will come with a warranty. That advice is also
based on my personal preference for a solid (ie heavy) machine that will not bounce around if I get a bit of speed up.
I know those bright shiny new machines you can pick up with one finger are appealing, but I would rather have a good
solid work horse that would keep on going year after year. Buying a machine is a bit like buying a car - you will get
a million opinions, but your decision will - and should - all come down to what you feel comfortable with. My
personal advice, with a caution that I do NOT do my own quilting anymore - try not to spend too much until you are
sure you really want to get into quilting seriously, then buy the best quality basics you can afford and wait for the
extras. If you need another machine, check into local reconditioned machines that will use generic feet and
attachments (that means no Berninas, etc unless they come with everything). Prioritise your buying. I would get a
"Little Foot" (NAYY - I just find them more versatile) instead of a generic 1/4" foot, and then a
walking foot. The darning foot can wait a little while. If you ask 12 quilters you will get 50 opinions. Good luck
sorting through all the advice that is sure to follow lol -- Cheryl & the Cats in OZ o o o o
o o ( > Y < ) ( > Y < ) ( > Y < ) Enness Boofhead Donut
http://community.webshots.com/user/witchofthewest catsatararatATyahooDOTcomDOTau "Linda F"
<lfranklin@mchsi.com> wrote in message news:pfe%g.206975$FQ1.168865@attbi_s71... : I am a new quilter (just
finishing my very first class ever) who : hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I was not machine sewer prior :
to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer : sewing machine. : : I am in need of a
'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my : machine and find that these will cost me over $75. : : My
dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing : machine? If a different machine - what kind do
I need? : : Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want : to spend the life savings on
a really high class machine, but I would be : interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more :
up-to-date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' : (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) :
: Many thanks for any comments. : : linda : :

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View entire thread: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested
Posted by Linda F on Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:45 AM    Post subject: Sewing Machine Suggestions REquested

I am a new quilter (just finishing my very first class ever) who hopes/wants/will try to continue quilting. I was not
machine sewer prior to this quilting class and currently own a very very old very basic Singer sewing machine. I am
in need of a 'walking foot' and a 'darning foot' attachment for my machine and find that these will cost me over $75.
My dilemma is: do I purchase these feet, or do I get a different sewing machine? If a different machine - what kind
do I need? Any suggestions from others would be most appreciated! (I know I don't want to spend the life savings on a
really high class machine, but I would be interested in something that would last me for a few years, be more up-to-
date than my current machine, and perhaps have a few more 'niceties' (like an easier to operate bobbin, etc.) Many
thanks for any comments. linda

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View entire thread: Should I keep my old machine?
Posted by Carole-Retired and Loving on Tue Oct 17, 2006 2:39 AM    Post subject: Re: Fashion Mate, was Should I keep my old machine?

Well, it's certainly not a high end machine but I bought a basic one when I could afford nothing else and it's been
running for years and years and has made lots of garments and quilts and never once has had to go in for service. I
kept it clean and oiled and lubricated as per the instructions in the manual. I have a much more sophisticated machine
now, but it's been to the repair shop twice and I've pulled out the Fashionmate both times so that I wouldn't have to
stop sewing. On Mon, 16 Oct 2006 18:26:41 -0700, "Carolyn McCarty" <cxm7521@nospamqwest.net> wrote:
[quote:17f43925d9]A "friend" gave me a Fashion Mate she rescued from a dumpster. It needs a little work and I
probably won't get it fixed for a couple of years. After reading Denny's note, I wonder if it's worth it. Any comments
from other Fashion Mate owners out there? Carole in Northwest GA - Retired and loving it![/quote:17f43925d9] Homepage -
http://home.windstream.net/caroledoyle/

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View entire thread: New member, new quilter
Posted by Patti on Wed Oct 11, 2006 11:20 AM    Post subject: Re: New member, new quilter

Welcome Susan. Can't help with the hand quilting, I'm afraid; but, once most of America wakes up, there will be lots of
help available. Matching six seams to a centre is bound to be a little difficult. My most basic piece of advice is:
to sew the individual seams from the centre towards the outside - that makes sure that any distortion is at the edge
and not at the centre. Sew three pieces together, making sure that both seams meet nicely; then the second three, and
then sew these half-hexagons together. Push a pin straight through the exact centre point on both halves, leave it
sticking out and hold tight while you pin on both sides of it, close to it. Then you can remove the sticking out pin.
It is quite a challenging pattern to have started with! but, good for you and good luck. .. In message
<1160555795.046962.223500@i3g2000cwc.googlegroups.com>, smeehan <smeehan@wap.org> writes
[quote:7d15594122]I'm a new member, living in Washington, DC. I'm making my first quilt, and I do not machine quilt.
(I've had 3 sewing machines in the past, and have hated every one of them and ended up giving them away!) I've just
finished piecing the top, and am trying to correct little problems before I face quilting. My pattern is of 22 stack 'n
whack hexagons set on point. It's intensely vivid, which is good, because I'm hoping it will draw the eye away from
where I have some off-center centers where the hexagons join together. How DO you fix that?? And I have some points at
the end that will likely be guillotined a trifle, as well. I have just realized that actual quilting requires a
completely different handstitch than the usual running stitch. I will be taking a class today at the Jinny Beyer
studio, and hope I can master it in 3 hours. I'm slow in assimilating new handmovements; I took a course on
tesselations recently, and found myself well behind on cutting the tesselation patterns out (probably failed 2nd grade),
and so I hope I'll get this new stitch under my belt. I've bought a special spoon -- hope it does the trick! Do I
sound a bit anxious? I am, I am. I'm good on color and design and hope that these strengths will keep me going as I
struggle through this my first quilt. I hope this group will have at least a few other hand quilters who can give me
advice -- quilting is an obsessively fascinating skill, I think, with the richest of rewards. Stitch happy! Susan
[/quote:7d15594122] -- Best Regards pat on the hill

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View entire thread: OT: sort of....I want to hear about sewing machines
Posted by Cats on Sat Sep 16, 2006 3:29 AM    Post subject: Re: sort of....I want to hear about sewing machines

Sunny I can't advise you on specific machines. I also can't afford to upgrade now or for the foreseeable, so I have
the luxury of dreaming about my IDEAL (regardless of expense) sewing equipment. And most of what I have decided on is
what I do NOT want. I have long since resolved that I do NOT want a machine the claims/tries to do everything. I want
a fast straight stitch machine with a wider throat than my current machine, but if I want to embroider I am happy to
do it on a separate machine. I do NOT want a machine that tells me how to do things and won't let me change settings
to what I want. This may be the control freak in me coming out though. I don't mind being advised about default
settings, but I want to be able to do weird things if I want. I do NOT want a machine that proudly claims to be light
weight! I hate that so many modern machines are so light and "bouncy" - even the more expensive ones. I
want a solid machine that will sit where I put it and not move with the vibrations when I put the pedal to the metal.
If I have to choose between a superb piece of basic sewing equipment and a multi-function machine that is reasonably
reliable, reasonably flexible and reasonably priced - personally I would go with the former. I am smarter than any
machine and I can get a good basic machine to do most of what I want. I like having some embroidery stitches available
to me but beyond basics I would be happy to consign the fancy stuff to a second machine too. You are obviously far
more interested in the embroidery options so think about what you REALLY want to do, and how much of it you plan to
do. For really fancy stuff I pay a friend with a top of the line machine to do small embroidery pieces for me. And
we now have a commercial embroiderer in town who is going to get back to me about doing one-off embroidered quilt
labels. I would rather pay them for specific requirements than finance a more expensive machine with capabilities I
do not plan to use daily (or at least weekly). And where I live service and support is limited so that would also be
a consideration. Good luck with your new aquisition - whatever it is. -- Cheryl & the Cats 0 0 o
o 0 0 ( > Y < ) ( > Y < ) ( > Y < ) U ~ U
Enness Boofhead Donut (Boofhead slowly recovering from his 3 day absence and seemingly minor injuries)
http://community.webshots.com/user/witchofthewest catsatararatATyahooDOTcomDOTau "Sunny"
<shemphill@genext.net> wrote in message news:1158370956.024681.223240@i3g2000cwc.googlegroups.com... :I have
serious sewing machine lust. I currently have a Janome MC 5700. : I use the special stitches and piece and quilt on it.
So far, I really : haven't used the embroidery function because I could never afford the : cards or the converter. : :
So........Now I want a new machine. And I am torn. I can't afford the : top of the line things I want (like the Bernina
Arista). But I may be : able to find some spare credit available, with the trade in value of my : current machine, to
do something else. So the question I am wrestling : with: should I go with a straight stitch machine (think Janome
1600P) : for quilting and buy a separate embroidery machine, not intended to : really "sewing". Or...do I buy
a Janome 6600 that has a huge number of : decorateive stitches (which I crave) and the extended table and runs :
faster than my current machine, but gives up all chances of machine : embroidery. Or......LOL. : : I want to hear from
you folks, what do you find most valuable. For : piecing, for quilting, for being creative. I really want one of those
: felting devices (suspect a lot of the companies are going to be coming : up with attachments in the next year or
two). I want to have a much : creative flexibility as possible and I'm not sure what that means. : : Please enlighten
me -- what floats your boat so far as machines that : you really use and use and use. : : Sunny :

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View entire thread: Perhaps I should introduce myself........
Posted by JPgirl on Wed Sep 06, 2006 6:34 PM    Post subject: Re: Perhaps I should introduce myself........

Well thank you for all the warm welcomes! To answer some questions, Yes, I do quilt my own tops, I have this thing about
paying someone for something that I am quite capable of doing myself, and I don't think that I would be REALLY satisfied
with someone else essentially finishing my work. I'm a bit OCD about that kind of stuff. Yes I do sleep, quite well in
fact for having a little one, she has been sleeping through the night since she was about 2 months old and when I first
got back into quilting she would take her naps in her chair right beside me with the sewing machine humming away. She
keeps herself entertained very well and mommy always takes frequent breaks for play time, but I do alternate between
quilting time, feeding time and play time for the majority of the day. The ducky quilt is just a basic lone star
design, I just had some of this fabric with duckies randomly scattered all over it so I fussy cut the diamonds so that
the ducks were on each diamond with the same orientation and whipped it together. I then used the leftover ones on the
border. I just finished the binding on the Crib sized Dresden plate quilt because I am not really in any shape to be
hunched over my sewing machine today, unfortunately I seized up my back pretty good trying stippling for the first time
on my lone star quilt and I was so excited I was sitting over my sewing machine for 3 straight hours last night, my back
is certainly paying for it today. The dresden plate design is an old design I found in an 80's Ladys Circle magazine, I
have had the magazine for quite a while now and when I first saw this particular one I knew I had to make it! So when I
heard one of my friends was preggers I thought it would look completely adorable in 'kiddie prints". It is in my
gallery, the link is in my first post.

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View entire thread: Done is Good
Posted by Pam in Spencerport on Fri Sep 01, 2006 5:41 PM    Post subject: Re: Done is Good

Thanks everyone for all the nice comments! I cant take 100% credit for the idea tho. I saw something similair one time
in a craft/antique store. It was much smaller and nice enough but its one of these things that you see and say to
yourself, "I can do that myself!". So I did! Good to know its giving others some inspiration too! My husband
is what I call a 'junker' so he is always coming home with oddball stuff. He found the window frame and we actually have
3-4 more in different sizes. I will probably make a smaller version for the kitchen. But I will get my block patterns
from a different source. The book was a good idea in theory but it needed some cleaning up. Too many errors and
discrepancies I think. Pam in Spencerport Susan Laity Price wrote: [quote:b4f0da2330]Love the way you used the
window to display the blocks. I have been teaching a class using the same book as the basic text. Yes, some of the
blokcs come out small. I thought it was my sewing so remade the blocks and they were still small. We plan to frame all
the blocks with 1 1/2" strips of fabric and then trim them all to the same size before setting the quilts together.
I printed your window photo and will show it to the class. Maybe some of the students will decide that is a great idea
and just stop making more blocks. The class started in January and will end in November. Each month there is a
different technique theme. We have followed the chapters in the book making at least 72 blocks. I have given them
additional patterns or substitue patterns when the one in the book weren't correct. The applique patterns were a little
weak so I gave additional patterns if they liked applique. I have been making the quilt along with the students instead
of having it completed when class started. Fortunately the class understands. I keep a month ahead of them. September
and October will be on foundation piecing. November will be on setting ideas. December I will meet with them one on one
to decide on their setting. We plan a reunion class in the spring to show our finished (just assembled tops?) quilts.
Six students started the class but only four will finish. I have mixed feelings about the book. I like the format and
the "exploded" block drawings. I think the quilt was made before the book was designed. There isn't a good
balance in the types of blocks. Some chapters have lots of blocks and other chapters have only one or two blocks. The
size problems is obvious. Next year I am using another book. Hopefully I will have the quilt finished before the classes
start so I will know what I am doing! Susan On 31 Aug 2006 13:21:46 -0700, "Pam in Spencerport"
<pamjb77@aol.com wrote: Finally finished a project I have been working on for a LONG time. I made 24 6" blocks
and placed them under the glass of an old window. The window was old and beat up but I cleaned it up and painted it. The
whole thing measures about 1 1/2 foot high and about 4 foot long. I hung it over the couch. I got the block patterns
from a book called 'Teach Yourself Blocks From The Past' My only issue was that some of the blocks turned out a bit
undersized. Not sure if this was a problem with the book's instructions or user's error. But no big deal, I am happy
with the results. I think I will add some kind of a garland around the frame. Looks a bit bare. Click the link if you'd
like to see it. http://www.flickr.com/photos/29652245@N00/ Pam in Spencerport[/quote:b4f0da2330]

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View entire thread: Done is Good
Posted by Susan Laity Price on Fri Sep 01, 2006 3:06 PM    Post subject: Re: Done is Good

Love the way you used the window to display the blocks. I have been teaching a class using the same book as the basic
text. Yes, some of the blokcs come out small. I thought it was my sewing so remade the blocks and they were still small.
We plan to frame all the blocks with 1 1/2" strips of fabric and then trim them all to the same size before setting
the quilts together. I printed your window photo and will show it to the class. Maybe some of the students will decide
that is a great idea and just stop making more blocks. The class started in January and will end in November. Each
month there is a different technique theme. We have followed the chapters in the book making at least 72 blocks. I have
given them additional patterns or substitue patterns when the one in the book weren't correct. The applique patterns
were a little weak so I gave additional patterns if they liked applique. I have been making the quilt along with the
students instead of having it completed when class started. Fortunately the class understands. I keep a month ahead of
them. September and October will be on foundation piecing. November will be on setting ideas. December I will meet with
them one on one to decide on their setting. We plan a reunion class in the spring to show our finished (just assembled
tops?) quilts. Six students started the class but only four will finish. I have mixed feelings about the book. I like
the format and the "exploded" block drawings. I think the quilt was made before the book was designed. There
isn't a good balance in the types of blocks. Some chapters have lots of blocks and other chapters have only one or two
blocks. The size problems is obvious. Next year I am using another book. Hopefully I will have the quilt finished before
the classes start so I will know what I am doing! Susan On 31 Aug 2006 13:21:46 -0700, "Pam in
Spencerport" <pamjb77@aol.com> wrote: [quote:2cef40265c]Finally finished a project I have been working on
for a LONG time. I made 24 6" blocks and placed them under the glass of an old window. The window was old and beat
up but I cleaned it up and painted it. The whole thing measures about 1 1/2 foot high and about 4 foot long. I hung it
over the couch. I got the block patterns from a book called 'Teach Yourself Blocks From The Past' My only issue was
that some of the blocks turned out a bit undersized. Not sure if this was a problem with the book's instructions or
user's error. But no big deal, I am happy with the results. I think I will add some kind of a garland around the frame.
Looks a bit bare. Click the link if you'd like to see it. http://www.flickr.com/photos/29652245@N00/ Pam in
Spencerport[/quote:2cef40265c]

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View entire thread: Need quilting ideas
Posted by Maureen Wozniak on Sun Aug 20, 2006 4:54 PM    Post subject: Re: Need quilting ideas

On Sun, 20 Aug 2006 10:23:26 -0500, Pat in Virginia wrote (in article <C7%Fg.19336$yO4.10301@dukeread02>):
[quote:b276b1e676]M: When faced with a similar situation, here's what I did. First, SITD along the sashing, with thread
to match, adding a little curved line in the contrast colored squares. (Black thread, on your quilt.) Then, I did basic
stippling in thread to match the background fabric, white on my quilt, black on yours. Finally, I used some invisible
thread add some interest here and there. I think I might go back and add details to the color portions, using a
variegated thread. HTH. PAT PS: I love your BOM! As Sandy helpfully reported: It's at
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/mwoz2/detail?.dir=382fre2&.dnm=d9c2re2.jpg &.src=ph>, Maureen Wozniak wrote:
I got into my sewing room today and put together a top from some BOMs I just finished. I think I'd like to hand quilt
this one, but I'm not sure what the best way to quilt this is. Anyone have any ideas. Maureen Almost forgot, the
photo is in the works in progress album. [/quote:b276b1e676] Thanks for all the ideas. I already have some black
thread, so I'll start there and then see what happens. Maureen

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View entire thread: Need quilting ideas
Posted by Pat in Virginia on Sun Aug 20, 2006 4:23 PM    Post subject: Re: Need quilting ideas

M: When faced with a similar situation, here's what I did. First, SITD along the sashing, with thread to match, adding
a little curved line in the contrast colored squares. (Black thread, on your quilt.) Then, I did basic stippling in
thread to match the background fabric, white on my quilt, black on yours. Finally, I used some invisible thread add
some interest here and there. I think I might go back and add details to the color portions, using a variegated
thread. HTH. PAT PS: I love your BOM! As Sandy helpfully reported: It's at
<http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/mwoz2/detail?.dir=382fre2&.dnm=d9c2re2.jpg &.src=ph>, Maureen Wozniak
wrote: [quote:ebeb5a7214]I got into my sewing room today and put together a top from some BOMs I just finished. I
think I'd like to hand quilt this one, but I'm not sure what the best way to quilt this is. Anyone have any ideas.
Maureen Almost forgot, the photo is in the works in progress album. [/quote:ebeb5a7214]

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View entire thread: several questions
Posted by Jane Kay on Wed Aug 16, 2006 5:15 PM    Post subject: Re: several questions answers-long

I tried to answer your questions one at a time- see below Jane in NE Ohio "Jacqueline"
<coldiron46@yahoo.com> wrote in message news:bdd5e2h8fgkpqiu3rgpf9fjshv1k16c4ge@4ax.com... [quote:ad4d19fed8]I
have a few questions I would like to ask, I hope someone will answer me :) 1. do fat quarters have to be washed first
or are they suppose to be washed when you buy them? I picked up some at walmart yesterday and am just wondering.
[/quote:ad4d19fed8] You don't HAVE to prewash your fabric. A lot of us like to- you find out if the color will run, you
preshrink the cloth, and if you will be storing it getting the sizing out makes it less attractive to bugs and mice.
Stores don't prewash their fabric. Fat quarters and smaller are easier to wash in the machine if you put each one into
a net bag like the bags for bras or sweaters, unfolded as much as you can & still fit it in the bag. Wash with
similar colors (reds oranges pinks reddish-purples) (blues greens blueish -purples) (yellow cream white beige light
pastels) (brown black or black navy is how I group them. For the darker colors I use a color catcher sheet also. If I
am washing mostly fabric I use the delicate cycle with about 1/4 the usual detergent and an extra rinse. Dry the fabric
(in the bag if you used one) until damp. Take it out and fold the large pieces as smoothly as you can, I lay them out
on my bed. They are a lot easier to iron if they are mostly smooth already-If I will be storing them I just let them
air dry like this, since I'll have to iron it when I am ready to cut anyway. I start ironing the smallest pieces first.
If the pieces are out of square you can pull them into straight (the threads crossing at 90 degree angles, not always
the way they were cut) easiest at this point. It is not essential to have little pieces straight, but it really helps
with the long pieces like sashing and borders. [quote:ad4d19fed8]2. I bought a pair of, is it fiskars, rotary
cutters, one is the one size recommended I think it was 45 is that MM, but I just opened them and noticed they both have
oil on the blades, is this normal? Oh, the reason I got two is one came with a cutting pad I wanted and the pad was the
same price with the rotary cutter as without. The other one is interchangeable, can be either 60-65 or 40-45, if I
could remember my numbers it would help, it too has oil on it. As far as scissors, I got a small pair by Fiskars to
clip threads with and I inherited my mother's good sewing scissors and pinking shears, no paper has ever been cut with
these, plus I have a decent pair of scissors and we have one fairly good pair that we do use when cutting paper, but
being my mother sewed all the time, when we were growing up we learned at a very early age you do not cut paper with her
good scissors. [/quote:ad4d19fed8] The blades come with oil on them to protect the metal. Cut through a few scraps to
get the excess off. [quote:ad4d19fed8] 3. When ironing material that has just been washed and dried, I read that you do
not iron it like clothes (not that I iron clothes, shoot I hate that job so if I buy something wear it and it turns out
needing ironing it goes in the yard sale bag for the church) that you press the iron down, then pick it up and press it
down again, is this true? If so it appears do me you would never get a piece of cloth ironed. Oh, gosh I have to learn
to iron. [/quote:ad4d19fed8] If you are ironing yardage, just iron it. The smaller the piece the easier it is to
stretch it out of shape, so you need to press them more carefully. [quote:ad4d19fed8]4. When you are ironing your seams
together do you iron both seams to the same side? I figured you ironed the one seam to one side the other to the other
side, then thinking of this I think that would weaken the tread. Now I have been reading all the treads seems I can
respond to the off topic ones best. Esp, if it has to do with cooking and c-pap. But when ironing seams do you not
need steam? I have noticed some of the travel irons you all have mentioned have steam and some do not. I want to get
me a small iron because I am not running down to the basement every time I need to iron a seam. Which brings up another
question, I am sewing, well I am not, but let's pretend I am, two squares together, do I iron after I get two together
or can I wait until I get the entire row sewn together to do the ironing? [/quote:ad4d19fed8] You need to iron before
you cross a line of sewing with another line of sewing, or you will end up sewing in little puckers.
[quote:ad4d19fed8]5. I have yet to figure out how to cut a square, using the ruler, now you all may laugh at this but I
am wondering if it would work if I got my dad to take some good wood like maybe black walnut and cut me a 4",
5", 6" square, sand it good, making sure he leaves enough that when he is finished it is the right size, maybe
putting some kind of protector on it and using these to cut the squares. Would this work? If so I will probably get
him to make me a 1", 2", 2.5 and 3 inch one also. 6. I also read somewhere that you never cut more than 4
squares at a time, is this also true? [/quote:ad4d19fed8] Try this website for basic rotary cutting instructions. They
have a lot of help on other topics also. http://www.quilt.com/HowTo/RotaryCuttingDirections.html [quote:ad4d19fed8]I
act like I am going to start cutting tomorrow, but I am first going to try some pre-cut quilt tops before I get into any
big time cutting, because I just am not sure I can do it. I have to start PT Friday, which is going to be 3 days a week
and also is a 60 mile round trip so I am not so sure I am going to get into any sewing other than practicing for a
while. This has caused my excitement to dwindle just a little. I also need a new pair of glasses so will get those,
too before I start any kind of project. I am sorry I have so many questions at one time, but I actually have a few more
but these are just the ones that came to my mind tonight as I was putting up my quilting purchases. Thanks for all your
time and effort in answering these questions, I am sure you all are put out with me, but this is something I really,
really want to do. Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things[/quote:ad4d19fed8]

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View entire thread: several questions
Posted by Cats on Wed Aug 16, 2006 10:30 AM    Post subject: Re: several questions

See below - and good luck! Cheryl & the Cats _ _ _ _ _ _ ( > Y < ) ( >
Y < ) ( > Y < ) ~ ~ ~ Enness Boofhead Donut Now in
hibernation with a wake-up call for Spring! http://community.webshots.com/user/witchofthewest
catsatararatATyahooDOTcomDOTau "Jacqueline" <coldiron46@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:bdd5e2h8fgkpqiu3rgpf9fjshv1k16c4ge@4ax.com... :I have a few questions I would like to ask, I hope someone will :
answer me :) : : 1. do fat quarters have to be washed first or are they suppose to be : washed when you buy them? I
picked up some at walmart yesterday and : am just wondering. This is ausually a cause for great debate between
quilters - to pre-wash or not to pre-wash, that is the question. I have got to the point where the feel and texture
give me a pretty good idea about the quality of manufacture (and likely quality of dye) and I go by that. But if I
was making a red and white quilt I would wash everything - the reds twice! Colours I find run the worst - red, brown,
purple (all have red component). If the quilt is high contrast lights and darks I might consider it. If the fabric
is cheaper I probably would too. As a beginner you are safer to wash everything. You will learn what is safe (or you
will get lazy like me LOL and become prepared to take more risks). I wash pieces sorted into similar colours in
lingerie bags. If you have some old pillocases they will do. They will also show if a colour has run. The bags
prevent the fabric fraying away to pulp in the bottom of the machine. : : 2. I bought a pair of, is it fiskars,
rotary cutters, one is the one : size recommended I think it was 45 is that MM, but I just opened them : and noticed
they both have oil on the blades, is this normal? Oh, the : reason I got two is one came with a cutting pad I wanted
and the pad : was the same price with the rotary cutter as without. The other one : is interchangeable, can be either
60-65 or 40-45, if I could remember : my numbers it would help, it too has oil on it. As far as scissors, I : got a
small pair by Fiskars to clip threads with and I inherited my : mother's good sewing scissors and pinking shears, no
paper has ever : been cut with these, plus I have a decent pair of scissors and we have : one fairly good pair that we
do use when cutting paper, but being my : mother sewed all the time, when we were growing up we learned at a : very
early age you do not cut paper with her good scissors. Standard size cutters are 18mm, 28mm, 45mm, and 60mm. The oil
is a protective lubricant. I usually wipe the new blades with a tissue (watch those razor sharp edges!) to avoid the
possibility of staining fabric. : : 3. When ironing material that has just been washed and dried, I read : that you do
not iron it like clothes (not that I iron clothes, shoot I : hate that job so if I buy something wear it and it turns
out needing : ironing it goes in the yard sale bag for the church) that you press : the iron down, then pick it up and
press it down again, is this true? : If so it appears do me you would never get a piece of cloth ironed. : Oh, gosh I
have to learn to iron. Ironing (swiping the iron across) is for fabric pieces. Pressing is for pieced blocks or
sections of blocks, and avoids the possibility of stretching / distorting the pieces. Warning - if you cut a lot of
pieces and they get creased before you get to assembling your blocks - DO NOT press them unless you cannot avoid this,
and then be very careful not to distort the cut shape and size. Beginners are often tempted to iron their patchwork
to death. : : 4. When you are ironing your seams together do you iron both seams to : the same side? I figured you
ironed the one seam to one side the : other to the other side, then thinking of this I think that would : weaken the
tread. Now I have been reading all the treads seems I can : respond to the off topic ones best. Esp, if it has to do
with cooking : and c-pap. But when ironing seams do you not need steam? I have : noticed some of the travel irons you
all have mentioned have steam and : some do not. I want to get me a small iron because I am not running : down to the
basement every time I need to iron a seam. Which brings : up another question, I am sewing, well I am not, but let's
pretend I : am, two squares together, do I iron after I get two together or can I : wait until I get the entire row
sewn together to do the ironing? Think pressing instead of ironing. To press seam allowances to one side or open is
another debatable point. I generally prefer open seams but this is not possible on some blocks. It is also not
possible with anything that is sewn onto a foundation. However, the traditional "rule" is press to one
side, usually to the darker fabric. This started from the days of handsewn seams when finger pressing seams to one
side minimised the pressure put on seams / threads. With modern quality threads and sewing machines I do not find it
necessary to do this. When I teach beginners I have them make one set of four-patch blocks with seams pressed to one
side, and another set with seams pressed open. This shows them the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Then
they can make an informed decision on which way to go. But normally you would treat all seams in a quilt in a similar
manner. : : 5. I have yet to figure out how to cut a square, using the ruler, now : you all may laugh at this but I
am wondering if it would work if I got : my dad to take some good wood like maybe black walnut and cut me a 4", :
5", 6" square, sand it good, making sure he leaves enough that when he : is finished it is the right size,
maybe putting some kind of protector : on it and using these to cut the squares. Would this work? If so I : will
probably get him to make me a 1", 2", 2.5 and 3 inch one also. Trust me - a sharp cutter will slice bits of
even hardwood rulers, thereby ruining the ruler and the blade. Steel rulers are also not suitable as they wear
blades. And you can't see thru wood or steel. The great advantage to the perspex rulers you see in shops is that you
can see through them to line up edges correctly. You don't need a lot of rulers to begin with. For years I had only
one - 6 1/2" X 24". I now have a vast array of specialty rulers and templates (all perspex) but the basic
ruler is still the most used item. A good second ruler is a 6 1/2" X 12" ruler. : : 6. I also read
somewhere that you never cut more than 4 squares at a : time, is this also true? I start beginners cutting folded
fabric (two layers at a time). You need to get used to handling your cutter and ruler before you go stacking up
layers of fabric. If I am doing something basic (say - 4" squares) I have been known to cut up to 8 layers at
once. But the more layers the greater the chance for fabric slippage and error, and each error is multiplied by the
number of layers of fabric. Most cutting is done on fabric folded with the selvages together. Your fabric is about
45" wide so the folded fabric will be about 22-23" - hence the popularity of the 24" ruler for cutting.
It is just wider then the folded fabric. Remember when cutting folded fabric to align your ruler against the fold of
fabric. If you don't cut perpendicular (90deg) to the fold, when you open the strip you will have a V shape instead
of a long straight strip. You may need to trim your fabric to get a straight perpendicular edge before cutting your
strips too. Always put your ruler on the piece of fabric you want to keep. So to get a straight edge, put the ruler
on the big piece you want to cut from, and have just the bit you want to trim off extended out from the edge of the
ruler. This is so that if your blade "wanders" you are not cutting further into your fabric. When you want
to cut strips, you put your ruler onto the strip you want to keep and have the rest of your fabric extending beyond
the ruler. Then if your blade slips by 1/4" you still have your strip (say, 4" wide) intact, and you only
have to trim the 1/4" mistake off the rest of the fabric to get another straight edge to cut from. If you
"slipped" into your strip of fabric, you would have to cut another 4" strip. Keep the ruler between you
and the blade is also a good "rule". Try cutting strips across (side to side) and away from you to see
which is more comfortable, and cut in long steady stroke. DO NOT saw your fabric or push down so hard that your
knuckles glow white and you arms feel as if they are being dislocated. If your wrist is straight, and you apply
moderate pressure with a sharp blade on a bench that is the right height for you - you should not find cutting hard
work. Cutting lots of layers will also wear your blade and make you arms/shoulders ache so . . . . . . stick to single
fold / two layers for now. : : I act like I am going to start cutting tomorrow, but I am first going : to try some
pre-cut quilt tops before I get into any big time cutting, : because I just am not sure I can do it. Get some high
contrast cheap material and cut strips about 2-3" wide. Cross cut these into squares and practise sewing small
pieces together. This is NOT a waste of time. You will learn how to handle your cutter and ruler as well. Then sew
two contrasting strips together and cross cut them the same width as the original strips. Sew pairs together to get
four-patch blocks. This will teach you about matching seams. Measure your finished four-patch blocks to check the
accuracy of your seams. This is also a good time to compare pressing seams open or to one side. : : I have to start
PT Friday, which is going to be 3 days a week and also : is a 60 mile round trip so I am not so sure I am going to get
into any : sewing other than practicing for a while. This has caused my : excitement to dwindle just a little. : : I
also need a new pair of glasses so will get those, too before I : start any kind of project. Definitely get your
glasses before starting LOL Much safer for fingers, and definitely will give more accurate results Try to
get hold of a little book called Rx for Quilters. It is a paper back written by a doctor who happens to also be a
quilter. Easy to read in one sitting, it has lots of tips for painless quilting. http://tinyurl.com/rnfbn : : I am
sorry I have so many questions at one time, but I actually have a : few more but these are just the ones that came to
my mind tonight as I : was putting up my quilting purchases. : : Thanks for all your time and effort in answering these
questions, I am : sure you all are put out with me, but this is something I really, : really want to do. : : :
Jacqueline : http://www.mountain-breeze.com : Recipes and other fun things

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View entire thread: need some more help
Posted by Leslie & The Furbabies in on Sun Aug 13, 2006 9:09 PM    Post subject: Re: need some more help

How much fabric to buy depends on what you like to make. When I taught quilting, all my students seemed to want to make
bed quilts, so my class samples were all queen sized. Then I bought 3.5 yards for most cuts. That's about the length
for borders and the leftovers can be used for piecing and bindings. Now I make mostly lap quilts and wall hangings, so
I buy a lot of fat quarters and 1/2 to 1 yard pieces. If it might be a backing, then I'll but 1.5 to 2 yards. You CAN
make quilts from scraps, all fat quarters, only two fabrics in the entire quilt and a bajillion other combinations.....
you can do anything you want! The only true requirement is to buy LOTS of (quality) fabric in great variety! And pre-
wash all your fabrics! LOL :-P~~~~~ Leslie & The Furbabies in MO. Jacqueline wrote: [quote:77b71e2118]I am at
wits end again. I know that even though I have bought precut blocks etc, that I will have to do some cutting some time.
And even if I don't have to I want to try it and see if I can. Now here is what I need to know. I need to get me a
mat, rotary cutter, and rulers, do you all recommend any one in particular. I have a rotary cutter but the best I
remember it won't cut butter, the thing has always been dull so I bet I bought cheap. What other supplies to I need,
since I will have to buy it all on line, may as well get what I need in one order if possible to save on shipping. Also
when you all do buy fabric, how much do you usually buy at a time? I want to participate in this group as much as
possible so I know I need to get some different colors and things to mail for squissies, I think is what it was called.
I guess I need someone to just lay out to me just what all I need to pick up like basic thread, batting, the edging,
which I can't remember what it is called. Border is what I would call it. I hope you all don't mind but everyone of
you have become my new best friends :) I hope the feeling is mutual and I have not aggravated the crap out of you. I
plan on spending the day reading about quilts and reacquainting myself with my sewing machine tomorrow, well that is
after church if I will give up the ghost and go to bed that is. :) I am so excited that I thought I first thought I
would wait until about Oct. to begin this project but I really do not think I can wait that long. Love you all,
Jacqueline Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things[/quote:77b71e2118]

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View entire thread: need some more help
Posted by Jacqueline on Sun Aug 13, 2006 3:53 PM    Post subject: Re: need some more help

I appreciate your suggestions. Thanks very much, Jacqueline On Sun, 13 Aug 2006 12:06:40 +0100, Patti
<Patti@quik.clara.co.uk> wrote: [quote:01c7a29938]I'll just deal with the cutting! others will join in: I have
an Olfa mat. They are great - occasionally a smelly one turns up g< It will just have to be aired, if you get one of
those! I think most people think they are pretty good. They come in different sizes. My most used one is 20-something
x nearly 20. If your hands are a problem, try to get a cutter which is called 'ergonomic'. They have specially shaped
handles which fit nicely into the palm of your hand. Also, you may need to change your blade more often than most of us,
because the sharper the blade, the easier it will cut, with least pressure required. So, try to find somewhere that has
packs of ten or more at a special price. It isn't so much the cheap cutter, probably, as the blade. Also, it might be
too tight. The hand-turning screw at the back needs to be tight enough to hold the blade on, but not too tight to
prevent easy rolling. When you get your cutter, open it up *very* carefully and make sure you know the order in which
the little parts are assembled. Always put the bits down in the order they come off the cutter, so that you can put it
all back together in the right way. Sometimes there is a curved washer, which needs to be put back with the curve
turned the right way. Rulers: The most useful one is probably the 6 1/2" x 24". You will need one like that
for cutting large pieces. However, it is heavy, and takes quite a bit of hand power to hold it steady. I recommend
that you also buy the 4 1/2" x 12 1/2". I love that one. It will be specially useful for you if you are
cutting squares - you can buy long quarters instead of fat quarters and the smaller ruler will go right across a long
quarter (or buy a third of a yard, so that you can be sure of getting two five inch squares across the width, if that is
what you are going to work with). Lastly, there are scissors which are spring so that you do not have to use your hands
to pull them apart after every cut. Scissors might do you very well for a lot of your cutting. These would be a great
investment for you (I am trying to get a pair, but haven't yet found any large ones). There you are - some things to
chew over >g . In message <5igtd293tn2ul0a2lsq74662fetptp36of@4ax.com>, Jacqueline coldiron46@yahoo.com>
writes I am at wits end again. I know that even though I have bought precut blocks etc, that I will have to do some
cutting some time. And even if I don't have to I want to try it and see if I can. Now here is what I need to know. I
need to get me a mat, rotary cutter, and rulers, do you all recommend any one in particular. I have a rotary cutter
but the best I remember it won't cut butter, the thing has always been dull so I bet I bought cheap. What other
supplies to I need, since I will have to buy it all on line, may as well get what I need in one order if possible to
save on shipping. Also when you all do buy fabric, how much do you usually buy at a time? I want to participate in
this group as much as possible so I know I need to get some different colors and things to mail for squissies, I think
is what it was called. I guess I need someone to just lay out to me just what all I need to pick up like basic thread,
batting, the edging, which I can't remember what it is called. Border is what I would call it. I hope you all don't
mind but everyone of you have become my new best friends :) I hope the feeling is mutual and I have not aggravated the
crap out of you. I plan on spending the day reading about quilts and reacquainting myself with my sewing machine
tomorrow, well that is after church if I will give up the ghost and go to bed that is. :) I am so excited that I
thought I first thought I would wait until about Oct. to begin this project but I really do not think I can wait that
long. Love you all, Jacqueline Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things
[/quote:01c7a29938] Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things

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View entire thread: need some more help
Posted by Jacqueline on Sun Aug 13, 2006 3:52 PM    Post subject: Re: need some more help

I have to be honest I don't even know what a Joanne's is. Must be a chain store of some type. In my previous email to
Roberta, this same thread, you will see I live close to nothing, except beautiful mountains. :) I can probably find
this stuff on line somewhere. Thanks for the info. Jacqueline On Sun, 13 Aug 2006 09:34:18 -0400, Witchy Stitcher
<noone@nowhere.com> wrote: [quote:a46b35cb9d]If you have a Joanne's near you, you can buy a set with the cutter
ruler and mat, either olfa or fiskers. Either is fine, I prefer the Olfa. Use a 40% off coupon. If you don't have one,
post, and someone will send you one. I agree that this is an indespensible tool. Although you can cut many blocks at a
time, don't try more than 4. For fabric - stock yourself first before you quish people. I order a lot from Fabrics.com
closeout pages. Because if they have what you want, their prices are very good. They have nice assortments also. Juse
click on Stephen's assortments. Don't skimp on thread either. Some people say it's a no-no, but I will often use serger
thread for piecing. A good brand though - like maxilock. I once tried to use Joanne's brand and when I ironed with a
very hot iron, it became brittle and fell apart - not something you want to happen after you piece your quilt. I would
recommend that for a beginner. Linda PATCHogue, NY On Sun, 13 Aug 2006 02:20:39 -0400, Jacqueline
<coldiron46@yahoo.com wrote: I am at wits end again. I know that even though I have bought precut blocks etc, that
I will have to do some cutting some time. And even if I don't have to I want to try it and see if I can. Now here is
what I need to know. I need to get me a mat, rotary cutter, and rulers, do you all recommend any one in particular. I
have a rotary cutter but the best I remember it won't cut butter, the thing has always been dull so I bet I bought
cheap. What other supplies to I need, since I will have to buy it all on line, may as well get what I need in one order
if possible to save on shipping. Also when you all do buy fabric, how much do you usually buy at a time? I want to
participate in this group as much as possible so I know I need to get some different colors and things to mail for
squissies, I think is what it was called. I guess I need someone to just lay out to me just what all I need to pick up
like basic thread, batting, the edging, which I can't remember what it is called. Border is what I would call it. I
hope you all don't mind but everyone of you have become my new best friends :) I hope the feeling is mutual and I have
not aggravated the crap out of you. I plan on spending the day reading about quilts and reacquainting myself with my
sewing machine tomorrow, well that is after church if I will give up the ghost and go to bed that is. :) I am so
excited that I thought I first thought I would wait until about Oct. to begin this project but I really do not think I
can wait that long. Love you all, Jacqueline Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things
[/quote:a46b35cb9d] Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things

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View entire thread: need some more help
Posted by Witchy Stitcher on Sun Aug 13, 2006 2:34 PM    Post subject: Re: need some more help

If you have a Joanne's near you, you can buy a set with the cutter ruler and mat, either olfa or fiskers. Either is
fine, I prefer the Olfa. Use a 40% off coupon. If you don't have one, post, and someone will send you one. I agree that
this is an indespensible tool. Although you can cut many blocks at a time, don't try more than 4. For fabric - stock
yourself first before you quish people. I order a lot from Fabrics.com closeout pages. Because if they have what you
want, their prices are very good. They have nice assortments also. Juse click on Stephen's assortments. Don't skimp on
thread either. Some people say it's a no-no, but I will often use serger thread for piecing. A good brand though - like
maxilock. I once tried to use Joanne's brand and when I ironed with a very hot iron, it became brittle and fell apart -
not something you want to happen after you piece your quilt. I would recommend that for a beginner. Linda PATCHogue, NY
On Sun, 13 Aug 2006 02:20:39 -0400, Jacqueline <coldiron46@yahoo.com> wrote: [quote:46e960cbae]I am at wits end
again. I know that even though I have bought precut blocks etc, that I will have to do some cutting some time. And
even if I don't have to I want to try it and see if I can. Now here is what I need to know. I need to get me a mat,
rotary cutter, and rulers, do you all recommend any one in particular. I have a rotary cutter but the best I remember
it won't cut butter, the thing has always been dull so I bet I bought cheap. What other supplies to I need, since I
will have to buy it all on line, may as well get what I need in one order if possible to save on shipping. Also when
you all do buy fabric, how much do you usually buy at a time? I want to participate in this group as much as possible
so I know I need to get some different colors and things to mail for squissies, I think is what it was called. I guess
I need someone to just lay out to me just what all I need to pick up like basic thread, batting, the edging, which I
can't remember what it is called. Border is what I would call it. I hope you all don't mind but everyone of you have
become my new best friends :) I hope the feeling is mutual and I have not aggravated the crap out of you. I plan on
spending the day reading about quilts and reacquainting myself with my sewing machine tomorrow, well that is after
church if I will give up the ghost and go to bed that is. :) I am so excited that I thought I first thought I would
wait until about Oct. to begin this project but I really do not think I can wait that long. Love you all, Jacqueline
Jacqueline http://www.mountain-breeze.com Recipes and other fun things[/quote:46e960cbae]

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