Shibori Design on Silk
1 commentA simple form of Shibori using plastic, paint brush, straws, eye droppers, small cups, several colors of dye-na-flow, thread, string, 1 yard light weight silk fabric and kosher salt. Fold fabric in...
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Cutting Out
Accurate cutting is important for a well-sewn garment, but this step doesn't have to be difficult if you keep in mind a few simple things.
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Samplings of Weft Knit and Warp Knit Fabrics
1 commentMore examples of weft knit and warp knit fabrics:Take a look at a few common types of readily available knits.
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Know Your Knits
Learn how to select and use a knit with confidence;this guide to the confusing world of knit fabrics will help you.
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A Pin for Every Purpose
A pin is not just a pin. Consider its five parts: head, point, length, thickness, and metal content.
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Machine-Needle Know-How
1 commentThere are lots of needles to choose from. Ensure a project's success by selecting the right one.
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Bias 101
Master the tricks of sewing bias-cut garments with a simple style and foolproof fabric.
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How to Replace a Broken Zipper
1 commentReplacing a broken zipper is a common mending task, and it's easier than you think, even if you have to shorten the zipper to make it work.
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Working with Vintage Patterns
Learn what it takes to stitch up beautiful garments from the past.
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Video: An Easy, Flat Fly-Front Zipper
4 commentsIgnore the pattern instructions, says Sandra Betzina, and use this simplified version for "ready-to-wear" results.
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Video: Straightening the Grain On Fluid Fabrics
Before cutting, the crossgrain and the lengthwise grain need to be ruler straight. In this video, fashion designer Sarah Veblen demonstrates the technique.
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Video: Pressing Tips
The goal of pressing is to shape the fabric, not flatten it. In this video, custom sewer Ann Steeves demonstrates a few handy tools and techniques to use with your steam iron to create great-looking garments.
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Video: Pressing Templates for a Sharp Edge
1 commentSee how easy it is to create perfectly pressed hems and pockets.
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Video: Accurate Darts without Permanent Marks
Use pins to transfer darts from pattern to fabric, and tape to mark the stitching line.
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Making Sense of Pattern Grading
If you want to use a too-small (or too-big) pattern, you need to know the way garments differ in proportion from one size to another.
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Sewing In a Zipper
1 commentLearn now to install centered, lapped, and invisible zippers.
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