The Fence Post: 2011-10-09

Wednesday 12 October 2011

In search for the perfect bag and other workshops

The pursuit of the perfect bag continues. If you love a new bag for every outfit this post is for you.
Picket Fence Fabrics is offering more bag classes this spring, and a basket class, just in time for Easter (class March 29). Our current favourite is the Bow Tucks Tote which keeps things organized (if I put things back in the same place everytime !) Here are a few Bow Tucks totes. By popular demand this class is being offered again March 24.

Another favourite is the Bali Bag.(April) I love this one to use up batik scraps. New to the line up is the Mari Lyn. The whimsical thread heads on these gals are sure to turn heads and great for carrying to class or to the market.(April) Pattern will be available later this month.

Linda's Irish Bouquet pattern is now available and charming little project for this month.

52 Steps to better quilting. One a week.

Sew any leftover binding strips together as quilts are completed, and use this scrappy binding on a scrappy quilt.
Cut and prepare binding strips when cutting out your quilt and store in a zip lock bag with your project.
Tape your package of sewing machine needles to the side of the machine. Easy to find when a replacement is needed.
Keep a pair of inexpensive readers near your sewing machine for threading needles and ripping out seams.
Check how much thread is on the bobbin before you start a chain piecing task.
Have extra bobbins filled, ready for a quick change when the thread runs out.
Sew any fabric left over from a project into a backing. It will reduce the amount of fabric you have to purchase.
Clean your bobbin case before starting a new project. use a soft makeup brush to clean the lint. The bristles will grab the lint easily.
Use the correct needle in your machine for the task at hand. The right needle will carry the thread through the fabric so that you won't have issues with tension and thread breaking.
Use starch when pressing applique pieces for a crisp edge.
When using small acrylic templates or rulers, draw a few lines of a water soluble glue stick on the reverse side of the ruler. This prevents slipping when cutting. The adhesive is easily cleaned off with soap and water when you are finished cutting.
Keep fabric, thread, specialty rulers and pattern together in a one container. When you start the project you won't waste time looking for something you need for the project.
Measure twice, cut once. Become familiar with your rulers. Some have an added extra half inch which can make your cut too small or too large.
Use the right pin for the job. There is a pin for every task--short applique needles that don't get in the way of hand sewing, fork pins to pin nesting seams, quilting pins for pinning blocks, silk pins for fine work.Instead of a pin cushion,store them in a clear stacking container at your work table, available at quilt and craft shops.
Replace your rotary blade often to prevent fatigue. A dull blade requires more physical exertion to cut through fabric.