Sharper Needles for Batiks
Batiks can be tightly woven. To
avoid skipped stitches and other problems, try a Microtex
needle. It is sharper than a “sharp”!
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Blend that thread
If you want thread to blend in
for appliqué,
but don’t have a perfect match, choose a darker
shade.
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Stabilize with freezer paper
When you’d like to use a plaid
on the bias because the design looks better,
stabilize it with a
finished size shape cut from freezer paper.
You can remove the
paper once the piece is sewn in.
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Story Quilts from printed panels
Instead of making a cloth book
with the printed children’s panels,
use each “page” as a block
to make a story quilt.
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Use this method to check up on
your quarter inch seam:
Cut 3 strips that are 2" wide and 5" long. Seam them together
side by side. Measure across all the seams. Was it 5"? If not,
you need to adjust your seam allowance.
Remember it's a scant quarter inch, just 2-3 threads less
than a true 1/4", to allow for a bit of taken up when the seams
are pressed to one side. If you are using a 1/4" foot, be sure
the fabric is completely under the foot on the right side. Or
move your needle to the right and mark 1/4" away with a piece of
tape. If using an edge piecing foot, be sure the fabric isn't
scrunched up next to the blade.
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Label that quilt!
It adds value, both in money and sentiment, and helps ensure
the quilt's survival. At the very minimum, use a Sharpie or
other permanent pen to just write the information on a piece of
muslin and tack it to the quilt until you can do a better job.
Include maker's name, date (life dates, if the quilt completion
is unknown), and location when made, as well as anything else
you can fit on. Label those tops, too!
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Separate scraps
Keep the scraps from each
project in separate containers. Then you have a coordinated
start on a new matching mini-quilt.
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Scraps used for sleeves
Make a
scrappy hanging sleeve from the leftovers so there will be
matching fabric available for any future repairs.
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Use scraps
Use extra sewn units and strips
to make a matching pillow in a crazy quilt style.
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Trade scraps
Trade scraps with friends.
Choose a size of zip-lock bag (quart or gallon) and stuff them
as full as possible so the trades will be even!
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Using small scraps
Use small scraps for paper-piecing or other foundation sewn
blocks.
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Clean bobbin areas
Before leaving the house for a
class,
are you sure your bobbin area is clean and fresh?
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Stash your money for a Stash
Be sure to keep a little “mad
money” tucked in your purse, in case you get mad about an
unexpected fat quarter sale.
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Fusibles
If you like to use fusibles, store them on
large gift wrap rolls or ask the local shop for an empty bolt
core. This keeps them wrinkle free. You can even have different
rolls for different weights or brands.
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Basting Spray
The new “basting sprays” are wonderful, but be sure to read
the label carefully. You want something that will wash out. Be
sure to use them in a well ventilated area. Use just a light
even spray, and don’t get your face too close!
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Mark those pizza boxes
If storing & carrying your project in a commercial container
(i.e. pizza box) you may want to mark it with a sticker, ribbon,
or other device so it is not confused with trash and thrown out
by a maid or unsuspecting family member.
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Making Bias Strips
If you use one of those
"non-slip" ironing board covers, lose
it when making bias strips for appliqué stems or
binding. No matter the technique you use to
create the strips - burn-the-fingers, using a
metal gizmo, or pinning two straight pins to the
surface to create a guide path - the original,
slick ironing board surface allows the bias
strips to glide smoothly. The non-slip surface
grabs and stretches the strips - bad news...Submitted by
Andi Reynolds - Keota, Iowa
