What sewing topics would you like to read about in Threads?

Let us know what you would like to read about in a future issue of Threads.

Producing a Threads issue takes months.
Planning for each issue of Threads begins many months before the issue is available to the public. We're already in the early stages of planning the line-up for issue #157! Issue #153 is in the mail to subscribers now.

We value reader input.
We try hard to provide articles that our readers will find inspirational and informative, taking them to a new level of sewing expertise. Is there an article you wish we had written about, but you haven't seen it yet? Is there a topic that intrigues you and you want to know more? Is there a technique that you need help to master? Please tell us about your suggestions.

Your ideas will all be given consideration.
I can't promise that we will use each of your ideas, but I can tell you they will be given serious consideration. We try our best to keep our readers informed in the way they'd like to be informed. For example, you asked us to write about HOW to do the technique that's featured on our back covers. Because of your input, we now include a department called "How did they do that?" which answers exactly that question.

Please post your ideas. Thank you for your input!

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April M. Mohr, contributor
Posted on Dec 28th, 2010 in sewing, tools & supplies

Comments (52)

LostCat writes: I hope I am not to late to make a request. I would like to learn about undergarment construction -- constructing a bra, a long line bra and a body suit with a built in bra. Things that I would like to see in that article would include proper select of wire size, and proper style selection given various figure flaws. Thanks
Posted: 6:01 pm on March 3rd

Schiaparelli writes: I realize that I am late with my wish list but just came across this post now!

My wishes for THREADS articles:
- fitting for curvy (not necessarily plus-sized) women, i.e. pants --> you can never have enough information on fitting but perhaps you can tackle those issues that are not so often found in fitting books?
- one pattern, many looks --> you had this in some earlier issues but it would be nice to have this more often to maximize patterns' values
- draping a garment --> again, you had this some time back but it would be great to learn more
- how designers draft a whole collection
- recycling/refashioning garments
- tasteful embellishing of garments
- versatile garments --> by this I mean garments which can be worn or adapted themselves in multiple ways (not that they are versatile because they make great wardrobe builders)
- how to sew and iron delicate fabric like silk chiffon
- presentation of rather 'unknnown' patterns and pattern magazines

A lot of readers are particularly interested in embroidery but I personally would not need articles on that in THREADS.

MAMY THANKS!
Posted: 4:21 pm on February 12th

NicGred writes: I recently found a reference to an old Threads magazine re. padding a dress form. I've just bought an adjustable dress form, but (of course) it does not adjust sufficiently to fit me perfectly. I think the original article was in Issue 44, but I am unable to locate a copy. Any chance of a revisit / update for us? Thank you!
Posted: 12:09 am on January 27th

Memmy writes: Hello I would love to see something on layering clothes ie the proportions and shapes that work well together. For example how to add necklines in layered garments to each other
Also how to addd a sleeve to a sleevless pattern and how reduce the ease in a sleeve head. How to raise an armhole and also the necessary adjustments to make to the sleeve .Finally how to turn a Normal 2 piece sleeve into a C"cChanel " 3 piece sleeve.
Posted: 10:33 pm on January 24th

deirdrew writes: I would love to see focus on the construction details of couturier designers of today. French, Italian or American designers. Deconstruct their garments!
Posted: 1:08 pm on January 23rd

amm writes: Thanks to all of you for your suggestions. I just printed all of your ideas for our next planning meeting. I can't promise anything other than the fact that the ideas will be discussed. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
April Mohr, Editorial Department
Posted: 4:22 pm on January 11th

AlexDawson writes: I would like to hear how to marry design elements from different patterns.
Posted: 8:52 pm on January 9th

tcsewhat writes: The only other sewing mag I read is Australian Stitches- mainly because it is about garment sewing. I like their articles on planning a wardrobe. I want to make garments that will work well together. They also show how a style can be adapted to women of any age and that is helpful.
I would also like to see an article on sewing blogs and which ones are interesting or feature a garment challenge.
Posted: 4:43 pm on January 9th

Stitchy writes: More couture secrets, mens tailoring, machine tips. Tips for difficult fabrics. I am open to learning everything.
Posted: 9:30 pm on January 5th

SewFascinated writes: I am a beginner sewer. I would like to see tips/tricks on working with difficult fabrics such as silk/satin and stretchy fabrics. I've seen some talk of using stabilizers but more detailed info would certainly be helpful.

Information on alterations would be great. I have a hard time finding ready to wear clothes and have often spent more on alterations than on the actual garments themselves. It kinda sucks the fun out of finding a great skirt suit for $40 if you have to turn around and spend $70 on alterations.

Turning & pressing seams is a sore spot for me. May be due to inexperience but some tips/techniques on how to get really good/clean finishes would be nice to see. I recall that there's a segment on pressing in the Teach Yourself to Sew series but I don't recall having seen much on pressing after turning the project right sides out.
Posted: 1:02 pm on January 5th

silverlining writes: I am a beginner at sewing again. Only had one class in Junior High School. So I would like to see more beginner articles and patterns to go with it. I agree with other members that repurposing older clothing to update my look would be helpful. Also, fitting for men's clothing is good. One article a month on the basics would be nice; ie., threads for different fabrics, etc. Lighting, workspace, organization, and uses for extra stash of fabrics would be appreciated. I look forward to learning new techniques.
Posted: 10:18 am on January 5th

oldsewandso writes: Articles for the vertically challenged as well as the horizontally gifted, i.e., how to fit a bra (from scratch, not "Take a bra that fits you well", I've never found one); how to dress flatteringly when you like creative clothes and bright colors; how to fit a short, very round rise; what to do with current fashions when they all make one look like a pregnant troll (gathered tops, 3/4 sleeves and cropped pants); how to add more ease and walking room in shorts and pants.

Articles with the middle-aged in mind. Even if we'd like to wear fashionable clothes, some of them look ridiculous on a middle-aged body!

Articles on Art-to-Wear, couture techniques, interesting re-purposing and ethnic clothing.

Keep it adult, there are other mags that deal with children and teens. Also, I'm not interested in Interior Decorating, quilting or little projects like eyeglass cases. Threads has always been a higher-end product, please keep it that way! I love reading your magazine, even if I don't always do all the projects, they're fun to read and imagine. Thank you.
Posted: 3:29 am on January 5th

azdesertgal writes: I firmly believe one section, per issue, strictly devoted to repurposing, could be an section that could appeal to any age or skill level. It could be your green section, so to speak.

I have seen refurbished ideas, like the Kermit green Jacket, idea I just looked at on your web page. loved it!
What I am talking about is an forum of true repurposed, renewed, and regenerated. Instead of going shopping at the department stores, we need to dig deep into the closets, thrift stores, flea markets, and hold clothing swap parties.
Having said that, now we need to show what we can do with those new finds.
You have many articles on how to tailor, retro fit and embellish, which are well written I might add.
Have people send in snap shots, or the real item. Have an designer turn that 1980's outfit into something very useable. Everyone has a ton of tee shirts in the closet.
Show in each issue what new thing the old tee can be something new. Chances are every age group will have an idea to send in that is so simple or imaginative, you will wonder why you have not done this before.

Posted: 10:30 pm on January 4th

bluesilver writes: I would like to see more articles of couture sewing techniques used by the great designers. Also creative sewing techniques to create art with your clothing. Thank you.
Posted: 1:00 pm on January 4th

bakertoo writes: I have loved the articles about clothing designers and their construction techniques, and the articles of how things are made. I really enjoyed the articles showing how the Wolf forms are made by hand still, and the article about the Coats and Clark thread company. That type of article is so interesting and inspiring.

I would also like to read more articles about couture hand finishing garments. I know you have done some articles about this subject, and they were also inspiring to me, and it has made me determined to learn more on my own, and practice more this year.

Thanks for a great magazine.
Posted: 11:01 am on January 3rd

MaryB60 writes: I would like to learn about altering ready to wear clothing. I have been scouring the internet for information on this topic and have found next to nothing - except for hemming.
Posted: 9:40 am on January 3rd

VintageTailor writes: I want to second many suggestions below and add a few ideas, too.

I recently improved my sewing space floor plan, moving my work tables, sewing machine,ironing board and project storage for more efficient movement among them. I got to thinking, they always talk about a "work triangle" in the kitchen. Is there a "work triangle" or other golden rule for designing a sewing workspace? I am mystified by photos in design books or magazines (not Threads!) that portray sewing spaces barely big enough for hemming pants. How about a kitchen designer or other designer experienced in designing spaces that really work, teamed up with a professional organizer, for an article loaded with ideas for making cutting-sewing-pressing-storage spaces that adapt to different projects?

Task lighting for a sewing space, and types of lighting (like full-spectrum)would also be useful.

How about fitting articles about menswear? Having succeeded in making shirts for my husband, I now have my eye on making beautiful trousers for him. David Page Coffin's magnificent trouser book does not address fitting. Threads, please help!

I sew from patterns of the 1930s, '40s and '50s. I am inspired by menswear of those periods as much as womenswear. It would be great to see up close the excellent designs of smoking jackets, sportcoats, trousers, shirts, ties, and outerwear from those decades.

For the last year I have been thinking how great it would be to have an image consultant who would work with me to build a wardrobe mainly from my fabric, button and pattern stashes rather than from retail clothing stores. Each of us would bring resources to the relationship (fabric, patterns, sewing skills on one side; fashion knowledge, sense of proportion, an objective eye on the other), and each would reap rewards (a great wardrobe suited one's lifestyle; creativity unrestricted by current styles in ready-to-wear). Threads, do you know anyone who has had such an experience with an image consultant? If not, perhaps I should offer myself as a test subject! An article is begging to be written on this topic.

Fabrics and buttons are favorite souvenirs of my travels. I have used your articles about shopping in New York and Portland and would welcome more such information.

I sew a lot but know little about alterations or repairs. I have walked away from buying clothes that might have fit had I just known some simple alteration techniques. Alteration is a timely topic.

How about introducing sewing tools, brand-new ones and even quite old ones, and explaining what they do? Didn't you have an article (or was it a topic on this website) about unusual presser feet? It was fascinating. I bet most sewers have at least one old gadget in their sewing toolchest they can't identify or haven't gotten around to learning to use but which is quite ingenious and useful.

Thanks, Threads, for asking for suggestions! I can't wait to see upcoming issues!

Posted: 9:43 pm on January 2nd

TJSEWS writes: When you have a garment made up in an article or in the Pattern Review section, can you say what type of fabric you used please.

Please continue your historical/educational articles on designers (like you did about Valentina, Ralph Rucci)...how about Balenciaga?

Please continue your articles on couture techniques - more please!!!

Please provide more info regarding altering armholes and sleeves.

PLEASE do articles regarding fitting on larger than a D cup. I am a 30GG with narrow shoulders and have a terrible time with fit.
Posted: 1:16 pm on January 1st

sewsilky writes: I am currently working with some lovely, fine knits that tend to be tough to handle at the finished edges (i.e., wrinkly, stretched out, etc). I have a serger, but, some information about finishing edges, perhaps artful and creative would be nice.
Posted: 12:15 pm on January 1st

WandaJ writes: Fitting, fitting, fitting. Fitting from the pattern to the muslin to the face fabric and lining. There has to be someone that can teach this in steps. What I see is a bit of this and a bit of that for various parts of the body. Also, there has to be an order to the fitting techniques. Which part of the pattern first, second, and so forth does one adjust. Do you lengthen the bodice first or do you make an adjustment to the bust? When you widen the armhole what do you do with the sleeve so it will fit properly? Finally, the steps need to be photographed and written so a 'dummy' can understand the instructions. Too many people get turned off of sewing at this point which is the 'start' of the project, or they have an ill-fitting garment and are turned off forever. Someone writing fitting tips and techniques needs to understand that everyone is not on their level. Thanks for asking for input from your readers.
Posted: 11:56 pm on December 31st

Juleo writes: I would love to see more about working with second hand clothing. I use only pre-loved fabric and relish any ideas for incorporating already sewn elements of an old piece of clothing into a new piece of clothing.
Posted: 11:07 pm on December 31st

eMMb writes: More articles on alterations, especially to purchased garments.

Articles on garment replication.

Also, I always love articles about couture techniques and deconstruction of historic couture clothing.

Creativity starters and tips and tricks also help me a lot!

Thanks for all the hard work you all put in, love the magazine.
Posted: 6:08 pm on December 31st

kundert writes: 1. The pattern review section is one of my favorites, although I would like to see all of the reviewed patterns photographed.

2. I would also like to see some fashion styling like how to put together outfits and what shoes to wear with what. You do a little bit of this in the pattern review section. Sometimes I can make a georgeous garment, and then I don't know how to wear it.

3. More articles on how to work with specific fabrics would be helpful.

Posted: 2:58 pm on December 31st

warbaby writes: List and discuss sources for local fabric in various states and cities. At this point I can find nothing but JoAnn Fabrics or quilting, crafting or upholstery supply houses. Fine for what they are, but very limited.
Where can one browse dress fabrics of good quality (or chancy quality, for that matter), idiosyncratic selection, unusual nature or anything off the beaten track? I sew for adventure, and I would like to be able to touch the fabric, examine its drape or weave, and be surprised at unusual characteristics. Online sources are a blessing, but they don't let you get physical.
Posted: 11:06 am on December 31st

veg writes: I would like to see more millinery tips like the John Koch one on hats. fascinators a becoming popular in Canada for evening parties and wedding. Some more ideas and methods would be wonderful
Posted: 11:06 am on December 31st

veg writes: I absolutely loved the article by Johm Koch on hat making. Since fascinators are comming back in style ( in Canada) I would love to see a few more millinery tips. The more us women wear them the more they will be fashionable. I have made a couple for weddings and cocktails parties and they have been a huge success.

Love your magazine and the eletters. Keep them coming. Thankyou

Victoria, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Posted: 11:02 am on December 31st

iluv2sew writes: In-depth looks at vintage garments and designer houses (like you have covered in the past i.e. Ralph Rucci, Vionnet or Valentina). Perhaps Celine or Stella McCarthey Thanks for considering
Posted: 12:41 am on December 31st

rosb writes: I agree with CHL looking after the women who are bigger than than D cup. I would love a few articles of garment construction on the dresses featured on the back but please continue this back page as its inspirational.Maybe something on how to grade patterns such as if your top is 16 but the hips 12.
Posted: 11:20 pm on December 30th

Aspydelia writes: Three things I would like to see:

A few examples of specific suggested fabrics. For example, if an article recommends "lightweight fabric" I wish it would go on to say "such as..."

More advice on using sergers and specialty attachments. Most articles are written solely from the least common denominator standpoint, never getting past straight stitch and zigzag. Not that every article should be exotic, but lots of us do own these things and it's a shame not to include them just be cause "everybody" doesn't have one.

More peeks into couture workrooms, especially addressing the current trends from the Fashion Week shows. Now that web sites like style.com exist it would be nice to have someone "on the inside" reporting back to the home sewers who are online drooling over the latest from Chanel, Armani, Galliano, et al and trying to figure out how it's done.
Posted: 11:03 pm on December 30th

fabriclover007 writes: Actually, for sewing with plus sizes and the difficulty with fitting for narrow shoulders, thick arms, etc. I diligently study any and every article I find to continue to learn.

one of the best suggestions is to go find ready to wear, no matter how much it costs (you aren't buying it) and take your tape measure. Try on things until you find something that you like that fits well. Start by measuring the back top of the armseye to armseye. That will give you a good starting point since tops hang from the shoulder. Many of us plus sizers learned that although we "grew" of course our shoulders didn't. So we attempt to closely fit the narrow shoulder and then the larger arm difference is more emphasized and a struggle to fit For those with thick upper arms (biceps) I would almost bet you will look better with a somewhat extended shoulder. Not the droopy dropped shoulder. my ideal shoulder width is 20" and shoulder pads are a must, but with narrow shoulders and larger arms, a somewhat extended shoulder seam allows the sleeve to come straight down off the shoulder and skim the arm rather than emphasizing the difference. The alteration for the shoulder is easy. I also have to have a two-piece sleeve (I have a standard I use in all garments) because I need more shaping. Otherwise sleeves twist. (How about an article on that also?)

The person that pulled it all together for me was Cynthia Guffey. I spent a day with her and it was well spent as it changed my approach. You don't only want to "fit" your figure, you want to create a pleasing silhouette.

So my vote for articles, more more more fitting; and how about showing the difference in a garment sewn just from the pattern to fit, and one in which alterations are made to show a pleasing silhouette.
Posted: 5:19 pm on December 30th

KarenJ writes: I second MariaKie's comment about fitting sleeves/armhole/upper back. I've seen too many suggestions to copy a well-fitting sleeve/armhole from a purchased garment. If I had one of those I wouldn't need to sew for myself! It would also be helpful to know how to add a sleeve to a sleeveless pattern.

How about an article that takes a specific pattern and goes through the process of making the garment, adding high-end finishing details, embellishments, etc. I've noticed a lot of pattern instructions are for a fairly poorly finished garment. It would be nice for people of all sewing levels to be able to take the same pattern and customize it according to their abilities.
Posted: 12:28 pm on December 30th

LebecEgirl writes: I would like to see a section devoted to beginner sewers. This past year I have started a small sewing group, mainly children, and I try each month to come up with "fun" projects that can be completed in 3 hours or less. I am trying to show my students how to sew without them knowing that they are really learning sewing techniques. I wanted the classes to be fun while passing along my love for sewing. In our classes we always say our projects are "funky," this way each student can feel good about their completed project.
Posted: 11:11 am on December 30th

amm writes: A couple of you requested that we photograph our Pattern Review garments on models instead of flat. As a matter of fact, we already do photograph them on models, but our talented art staff miraculously removes the models' head, legs and arms to keep the focus on the garment(s) rather than on the models. The accessories (shoes, jewelry), etc., are added afterward.

At one time we did photograph the Pattern Review garments flat, but many of you asked that we give the garments natural shape by placing them on a person. We heard your requests! You can clearly see the difference if you do some comparison. Take a look at the suit on page 24 of issue #132. It is clearly photographed flat--no bust, and the skirt looks like it's suffering from severe static cling. Now look at the photo of the outfit on page 29 of issue #153. Observe the shapeliness of the top, and notice the hemline which is clearly not flat.

Now that you know, I hope you're able to better appreciate the style lines of the Pattern Review garments. Thanks for your comments. I'm glad I've been able to clarify this point for you all.

Have a Happy New Year!
Posted: 11:00 am on December 30th

CHL writes: Create a Project Runway like series of challenges for Threads editors/contributors... where the garments are for real models. And the text describes the way her fitting challenges were addressed in the challenge.

How to design/construct clothing for young at heart with bigger than D cups that is alluring not trashy or matronly... including work, casual and formal.

Secrets of the designers who specialize in pagent, professional dance, and skating attire. How do they bring out the best for all body types. How do they make daring designs work on moving humans with curves?

Treasure troves of fabric shopping in off the beaten locations (Singapore, Africa for example) and places that are worth a side trip from other US destinations like spas or tourist attractions (other than Washington State and NYC).

Survey of software that is helpful for the sewing studio-- beyond fitting and quilting. Like pattern/fabric organization, computations, etc.

Practical advise for storing fabric. How do the pros do it? What are the lessons learned? Where are the sources? When do you store it on rolls versus folded. Plastic bins? Cardboard boxes? How to make garage storage work. What does a dream storage solution look like? What does a inexpensive solution look like? If there was one thing to invest in for the stash it would be_____?

Using our craft to help someone else: Comprehensive round up of organizations which accept donations of fabrics. How to find them locally. Sewing for charity. It's important that these articles have a diversity of project/locations/resources.

Work harder to have a more diverse set of contributers to the magazine.
Posted: 10:59 am on December 30th

SewsinOKC writes: I would like to see the patterns in the 'pattern review' secion on real people. I do like the line drawings, but sometimes the flat picture looks very different than the garment would look on a person. I love the garments made from 'other designs'- like the vest from the pashmina shawl, the blouse from the rectangles, the new 'shawl' from the rectangle. Making a garment from 'something else' by simple dimensions and instructions without having to go buy another pattern. Even having a pattern in a .pdf that you download from your website.
Posted: 8:27 am on December 30th

TutuLady writes: Tips and tricks when using stretch fabrics would be great.
Posted: 6:34 am on December 30th

mounjee writes: How about showing steps to put together a deliciously difficult Marfy pattern?
Posted: 6:02 am on December 30th

mounjee writes: I'd like some tips on working with bias cut fabric and fine cloth finishes. Also, tips on making an evening gown and a bridal dress...and couture details are always of interest.
Thankyou.
Posted: 6:00 am on December 30th

AlisaH writes: An article on how to organize a fabric stash, patterns collection and a magazine library please!
Posted: 5:03 am on December 30th

gwoman writes: I'd like to see more information about the hows and whys of grading, particularly for the plus size. Information about men's garments would be helpful as well as info about alterations.

Thank you
Posted: 8:38 pm on December 29th

pooh715 writes: Anything that talks about creating a wardrobe. Articles (like one from 2009? by Judy Burlap about turn-of-the-cloth) that show different construction methods. Interviews with successful designers and self-employed dressmakers. Also, more recognition of the online sewing community. The last one has had a huge impact on my sewing in the last several years and is solely resopnsible for re-igniting my passion for sewing!
Posted: 6:46 pm on December 29th

Posewing writes: I'd like to see something about how to identify different fabrics too and maybe a table of which thread and needle is appropriate for each type. Thanks
Posted: 6:44 pm on December 29th

LuvThreadsMagazine writes: How'z about more post-mortems on fashions of old. Deconstructing and exploring the inner workings of vintage and designer outerwear and dresses. Construction concepts are vital to expanding a sewer's knowledge.

A showcase on several of your contributing editors methods of finishing the arm holes on sleeveless garments (they can't all do it the same way). It's always the visible and simple which really makes a garment evade the scrutiny of the "Store-bought or home-made?" police.

The paperbag waist in its many incarnations: tall, flouncy, and novel. Show pants and dresses which have utilized this feaure. Listing suggested suppliers for any necessary stuctural materials.

A denim chemise out of thrift store jeans, or one's old jeans. Sort of a something-out-of-nothing article. That would fit well with the times.
Posted: 4:51 pm on December 29th

AthmaticEditor writes: I would benefit from an article about adjusting a pattern for narrow shoulders, thick arms, bigger than a size D bra cup size, and hips that are larger in proportion to the whole. All I've come up with is sewing an a-line shirt for myself or wearing knits all the time.
Posted: 3:48 pm on December 29th

MariaKie writes: Would love to see how to fit a sleeve properly, for arm movement. Have a lot of people I sew for that are wide in the back, and want extra room to move with the arms (and or back width).
Posted: 3:39 pm on December 29th

Wendelizine writes: In future issues, I would like if the clothing made in the "Pattern Review" section of the magazine was shown on real people. It would help show how it actually fits. A 1-pager section on a different fabric in each issue (along with its historical or typical use, potential challenges when working with it, and a where to buy guide) would be useful as well.
Posted: 2:36 pm on December 29th

SoCalCynthia writes: While so very many of us have New Year's resolutions to exercise more and lose weight, we don't always reach our goals. So I'd like to see articles about fitting our chubbie bodies, with real life models, not diagrams! Also, when you show a techniques with a specific fabric, please give us an online source for the fabric., and explain more about it. Many of the articles are of no use because I don't know what fabric or trim you are referencing.
Posted: 12:54 pm on December 29th

deniseo2l writes: Always glad to learn more couture techniques, and would like to learn more about designing and fitting for plus sizes.
Posted: 10:31 am on December 29th

smyoker writes: A BIG 'DITTO' to what 'lvstosew' and 'ursbie' suggested. on the fabric comment - i often read the fabric suggestions on a pattern i want to make, but then have difficulty finding those fabrics...so knowing too, about weight, drape, etc. i think would help....and articles for the plus sized woman would be great
Posted: 8:24 am on December 29th

elizabeth001au writes: How to "roughen up" some olassic pattern designs (particularly jackets and shirts) for a more modern look. Frayed bias strips of silk chiffon come to mind as one idea. Any others?
Posted: 6:17 am on December 29th

lvstosew writes: Hello, I would like it if you would write some articles about different types of fabric for example, cotton, knits, wool etc and how to tell what type they are if you dont know
Posted: 3:47 am on December 29th

ursbie writes: I would like if you would write some articles (with photos of a real woman) for the Plus sized women.
Like pattern suggestion for the pear or apple etc. shaped woman.
What kind of fabric to use so it looks good on the bumpy body...

Posted: 9:30 pm on December 28th

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