Machine Madness Stabilizers are magical.  There are so many quality stabilizers available that are suited for a wide range of sewing needs.  When the right stabilizer is used for a specific sewing task, it is like magic!  Your sewing machine performs well and the process of completing your project goes along smoothly.   There once was a time when sew-in interfacing was all that was available.  Although it worked well for dress making,

What’s New?

There’s new machine at Thimbles that is like no other. It is the Sashiko machine from Baby Lock. For over 200 years sewers created gorgeous hand-stitched patterns using a technique known as Sashiko. Sashiko (or “little stabs”) began in Northern Japan as a way to add bulk to fabrics in the winter. Soon the technique evolved into creating patterns, designs, and even artwork. This traditional hand-stitched look can be created with the Sashiko machine. This machine perfectly replicates the hand stitches. A wish list machine for any quilter or sewer who wants a hand-stitched look!

              
Dagmar’s Quilt Quips  

Invisible thread is always the right color for any project.   It is a “must have” item for every quilter and sewer. It would seem that this man-made thread would last forever since it does not deteriorate and weaken over time as cotton does. Unfortunately, invisible thread manufactured in the past does have a long term limitation. It becomes cloudy and yellow over time. In addition, it may remain in a coiled shape as you pull it from the spool. This yellowed and tightly coiled thread will not run smoothly through your machine, and you should avoid using it. If your invisible thread was a gift from Grandma’s sewing basket, or has just been around for a long while, consider replacing it will an up-dated product. Today’s invisible thread is more flexible and will last indefinitely...

Deb’s Do’s and Don’ts 

Do add sparkle to your projects this holiday season. A little sparkle can brighten a room and turn any gathering into a party. There are so many ways to add sparkle to both old and new projects. Consider adding sparkle to old placemats and table runners by using clear or colored crystals that have a heat activated adhesive backing.. Arrange the crystals on the project and touch each for 10 seconds with a heated, easy to use, “Lorna Tool.” Once heated, the crystals will be permanently in place. You might also consider adding a little glitter to your projects by using “art glitter” and the clear drying “art glitter adhesive” by fabric Bouquet. This easy to apply ultra fine glitter is available in a wide range of colors. Enjoy the season and help make it bright with a little sparkle!

Judi’s Knit Picks 

One would think that needles of a certain size are exactly the same regardless of what material is used to make them. A size 9 plastic needle would be expected to be the same as a size 9 bamboo or metal needle. This is true. Yet, there are some subtle differences. Different needles of the same size can perform differently. A knitter might knit more loosely on a metal needle as compared with a bamboo needle. This could impact the size of the item being made. To be sure to get your stitches to look just the way you expect and avoid any unpleasant surprises,

Jennifer’s Sew Sense 

Time to sew always seems to be in short supply. No one wants to waste any of their precious sewing time looking for a needed piece of fabric or sewing tool. This can be a very frustrating and time consuming experience. The key to avoiding this loss of time is organization. Begin by sorting all fabric scraps and pieces into clear plastic containers with flip top lids. Label each container with the specific contents. Then stack these containers in a closet or the corner of a room for easy access. Next, sort sewing tools and notions into smaller clear containers and label each one as well. Finally, organize your threads. Avoid loose threads in your thread container by using “Amazing Tape.” This tape sticks only to itself and nothing else! It can easily be cut into strips just long enough to wrap around a spool of thread and just as easily removed and reused. The plastic tape will hold the thread on the spool and avoid big tangled messes of wasted thread.

Next time you are ready to sew you will be glad that you invested your time and energy in getting your sewing materials in order. There will be no searching for anything, and you can get right to your project!