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Profile for ThreadsMagazine - Threads
ThreadsMagazine
editor
Member Since: 11/13/2008
Gifts for Sewers - A Gift Guide to the Holidays
Find out what our editors are craving this holiday season.
The 2011 Threads Annual Magazine Index
Download the 2011 Threads Annual Index covering issues 153-158. With this pdf download you can easily locate any subject or author in your issues from this past year.
Halloween Costume Contest 2011 - Official Rules
The official rules for the Threads 2011 Halloween Costume Contest
Threads Ultimate Sewing Challenge Sponsored by BERNINA - Official Rules
The official rules for the Threads Ultimate Sewing Challenge Sponsored by BERNINA.
Spruce Up Your Shirt Hem
Subtle hem details can change the look of an ordinary shirt, and they’re a cinch to add.
Online Shopping and Resource Guide
Check out this newly updated list of great online fabric and craft supply resources.
Pressing a Rolled Collar into a Curve
Rolled collars should be gently steamed to build in a graceful curvature.
Guide to Press Cloths
Find out why just one press cloth is not enough.
Weave a Celtic Knot
Use charmeuse cord to make elegant pockets, collars, or cuffs.
How to Make a Hat Base
Create ravishing hats without expensive tools in this tutorial by milliner, John Koch.
Stack Petals to Create a 3-D Applique Belt
Appliques are a creative way to turn up the volume on clothes and accessories.
Holiday Gift Guide
We share the gifts that made our wish lists this year. What are you hoping to receive this holiday season?
Halloween Costume Contest 2010 Official Rules
The official rules for the Threads Halloween Costume Contest 2010.
Inspired by Threads Contest - Official Rules
The official rules for the 2010 Inspired by Threads Contest.
Create an Illusion Mesh Edge
Avoid traditional facings with this creative technique.
How to Make Stripe Insertions
Tiny elements, sometimes hidden, can revamp a classic shirt with personality and design.
And the Winners of Bags in Bloom are...
Find out if you are a lucky winner in our book giveaway.
Who is your favorite Threads author?
Which of the talented contributors to Threads magazine has inspired you most over the past 25 years?
Make a Front Vent with a Loop and Button
This detail lends a bit of flair to a basic pant and can be made in any fabric from linen to lightweight wools.
Create a Detachable Flower Embellishment
Make a fabric and ribbon flower accessory that's easy to add or remove from a garment.
What were you sewing in 1985?
We are celebrating our 25th anniversary this year, and we want to know what you were sewing when we were just getting started.
How to Hemstitch by Machine
Learn a wing needle technique that will add a delicate embellishment while finishing and securing the facing edge.
Spring Color Contest Official Rules
The official rules for the Threads Spring Color Contest.
Creating Chemical Cutwork
Embroider breezy fabric without fussy cutting.
Recall of Dritz Quick Cut Scissors
Prym Consumer USA has announced a voluntary recall for all of the Dritz Quick Cut Scissors.
New Sewing Machines by Janome
Read what Janome is saying about its newly released models.
What other types of fiber-arts-related crafts do you do?
We know you love to sew, but let us know what other fiber-arts-related crafts you enjoy.
Add Style with Graphic Fabric Insertions
Check out this decorative couture piecing technique from Project Runway Season 7 Contestant, Pamela Ptak.
Create Intricate Fabric With Pin Weaving
Make your own colorful and artistic fabric from yarn and leftover fabric pieces with pin weaving. The technique is surprisingly easy to master and produces lovely yardage for garments, accessories, and even framed art pieces.
Choose the Winner in the Fancy Fabric Contest
You decide which one of our five finalists will take home the prize. Vote for your favorite to win.
Hands-On With Kleibacker: Lessons for Working with a Bias
Learn some of the techniques developed by Kleibacker throughout his career.
the 'Happy Valentine's Day' from Bernina V6 Contest Official Rules
The Official Rules for the 'Happy Valentine's Day' from Bernina V6 Contest
New Sewing Machines by Brother
Read what Brother is saying about its newly released models and accessories.
Sew Buttonholes that Resist Stretching
Closures can be tricky on stretchy, loose knits, but with the right support, you can add professional-looking buttonholes that complement your knitwear designs.
What's on Your Sewing Wish List?
Here is a list of the gifts on our wish lists this year. What sewing items are you hoping for?
Fancy Fabrics Challenge Official Rules
Official Rules for the Threads Fancy Fabrics Challenge
How to Recover an Umbrella
Give an old umbrella a bright new look with an all new cover.
How to Make Loops in Soutache Braid
Learn how to make small loops in soutache braid lie perfectly flat for elegant embellishment details.
Fitting Tips from the Pros: Online Extra
In the latest issue of Threads (No. 146 Dec/Jan), Louise Cutting and Linda Lee share their quick tips for fitting your problem areas. Here are a couple more tips from these talented ladies.
Halloween Costume Contest Official Rules
The official rules for the Threads Halloween Costume Contest.
How to Sculpt a Row of Faux Bows
Learn how to manipulate a bias tube to create the illusion of bows.
Competitors Make It With Wool and Win
See the winners of the annual Make It With Wool competition.
And the Winners of the Simplicity Bias Tape Makers are...
Find out if you were the lucky winner of a Simplicity Bias Tape Maker.
Gallery of Gorgeous Gloves by John Koch
View some of John Koch's amazing custom-made gloves in this inspiration gallery.
Use a Proportional Scale as a Design Tool
The key to reproducing a garment that inspires you is keeping the proportions right.
Stitches for Gorgeous Gloves
Use these stitches when sewing gloves.
Patterns for Gorgeous Gloves
Download the glove pattern from "Gorgeous Gloves" in Threads Issue 145.
Summer Sewing Challenge: 1 Week Left to Win!
There is still time to enter your linen creation into a Summer Sewing Challenge. You could win the new Janome 1100D serger.
Summer Sewing with Linen
Enter to win our Summer Sewing Challenge. There are just two weeks left to share your linen creations.
Thread Beyond the Sewing Room
Our tour of the Coats & Clark thread factory taught us that their thread shows up in some of the most unexpected everyday items.
Needle Felting Without Wool
Yes, you can needle felt with fabrics other than wool. Experiment with different fabrics to create a whole new look.
What is Your Level of Sewing Expertise?
How do you rate your sewing skills? Are you a sewing newbie? Have you been at it for years and are continually progressing? Do you make your living by sewing? Or, are you somewhere in between.
Join the Threads Summer Sewing Challenge and WIN!
Express yourself in linen by August 17th and enter to win the new 1100D serger from Janome.
Summer Sewing Challenge Official Rules
The official rules of the 2009 Summer Sewing Challenge: Express Yourself in Linen.
And the Winner of Ribbon Embroidery: Simple Stitches for Easy Embellishments is...
Find out who won a copy of Natalie Bellanger-Clement's book, Ribbon Embroidery: Simple Stitches for Easy Embellishments.
How to Embellish Buttonholes with Embroidery
Embellish your buttonholes with this embroidery technique from Jennifer Stern.
Shell Hem Edge
Enhance any edge with a shell hem using just a basic needle and thread.
*UPDATED* The Latest in Sewing Machines
If you're in the market for a new machine, check out these models by Baby Lock, Brother, Husqvarna Viking, Janome, Singer, and Pfaff. Check back often for the latest releases. Just added: the Janome ASQ 2009.
Announcing the Winner of the Fluid Fabric Challenge!
Check out the winner and the runners up in the Fluid Fabric contest.
Create a Custom Feather Fringe
Create a feather trim to embellish any garment.
Enter to Win a $150 Gift Card in Our Fluid Fabric Challenge!
Submit your own garment made from a fluid fabric and you could win a $150 gift card to Fashionista Fabrics.
Fluid Fabric Challenge Official Rules
The official rules for the Fluid Fabric Challenge.
On Fitting Sleeves
Your favorite off-the-rack fashions hold the secret to perfectly shaped sleeve caps and armholes.
Threads Announces New Editor
Meet the new editor of Threads magazine and ThreadsMagazine.com, Deana Tierney.
Fitting DVD Series Preview
In this video preview, you'll learn 6 fitting techniques from the Threads Fitting DVD Series.
Meet Designer Brook DeLorme
Take a look at the way thoughtful inspiration leads a young designer to create chic, sculptural garments.
Bobbin Work: When Threads Are Too Thick for the Needle
Use hefty threads, yarns, braids, and ribbons in the bobbin, and sew from the wrong side to create exciting stitched effects.
Adapt a Bra to Accommodate a Prosthesis
Creating a post-mastectomy bra from a purchased garment requires only basic sewing skills and a little attention to detail.
The Seam Method of Pattern Alteration
An innovative technique for pattern alteration that's simple to understand and easy to do, offering options other techniques don't.
Understanding Underlining
Underlining solves everyday fabric problems, from stabilizing loose weaves to reducing show-through.
A Shortcut to Great Linings
Skip interfacing and keep facings in place with this quick-lining technique.
Armani Jackets: The Inside Story
The state of the art in interfacings, shoulders pads, and set-in sleeves
Understanding the Basic Shawl-Collar Pattern
Learn how to make this distinctive collar type, drafted with the lapel and collar in one, for easy sewing and flattering. style
Sewing White Fabric
Learn how to avoid soil, surface damage, show-through, and other pitfalls when working with white fabrics.
Symmetry for Quilters
Use the simplest principles of symmetry to transform a single motif into endless quilting and appliqué designs.
Packing Tips Help You Travel in Style
Keep garments neat and organized with Marcy Tilton's system for stuffing a suitcase.
Shopping for a Serger
Analyze your sewing needs, understand serger features, and prepare to test-drive.
Lapped Zippers Rule!
Lapped zippers are easier to insert and look better than centered zippers in almost every situation.
Stenciling Workshop
Simple fabric painting offers unlimited possibilities for great garments.
Textures: From Photo to Fabric
The real world offers endless visual stimulation. With a little ingenuity, you can transfer the excitement onto fabric.
Sewing Lycra Blends
Puzzled by wovens and knits featuring a touch of this springy fiber? Learn how to get the most from Lycra blends; it's surprisingly simple.
Crazy Patchwork by Machine
Learn how to use your sewing machine's decorative stitches to mimic the random, embellished hand-piecing of Victorian crazy quilting.
The Whimsical Creations of Saskia Wassing-Shepherd
Bright colors, free-motion embroidery, and a sense of humor combine delightfully in the designer's soft-sculpture animals and furnishings.
Find Your Best Silhouette
Most of us have struggled with proportional problems, but the solution is actually selecting clothing shapes that better complement our existing figures. Learn how to design for your body using age-old proportion rules, and print out a master grid for your designs.
Lessons From Other Quilters
Close inspection of antique (and other) quilts reveals techniques and approaches you can use in your own work.
The Scoop on Linings
Learn how to determine the best lining weight for your garment.
Knits & Wovens: What's the Difference?
There are two basic categories that fabrics fall into: knits and wovens. Learn how to better understand and identify these categories in order to improve your sewing.
A Hand-Picked Zipper is Worth the Effort
Show off your stitches with this easy-to-learn technique.
Luxe Hangers
Learn how to make sumptuous, padded hangers from bits and pieces of your best fabrics.
Fabrications: One Pattern, Three Looks
Threads' newest feature is the result of a collaboration among three designers and one talented— and speedy— dressmaker.
Understand Turn-of-Cloth
Learn what you need to do when fabric takes a curve.
How to Sew a Sheer Placket
Learn how to create a perfectly aligned placket for a sheer blouse using hand stitching.
Choosing Fabric for Plus-Sized Designs
The aesthetics, durability, and comfort of the fiber are the most important criteria to consider when choosing fabric for plus-sized designs.
Button Bangles: Off the Cuff
Mismatched buttons now have a home on a stylish arm.
Machine-Sewn Textures
Learn how to create surface effects by stitching together shrinkable and nonshrinking fabrics, then washing them.
Draft a Two-Piece Collar with a Stand
Use these step-by-step instructions to design a two-piece collar with a stand.
The Ease Factor in Pattern-Drafting Software
Selecting the correct amount of ease is critical in drafting a great-fitting pattern.
The Dowager's Hump
Learn the best solution for fitting a rounded upper back.
Go against the Grain
Get creative when aligning pattern pieces along the fabric's yarns.
Embellishing Vintage Textiles: Buttons and Buttonholes
Learn how to fashion these textile treasures into elegant creations for garments or home.
Quick to Make: Great Pillows 1, 2, 3
Download a project plan and create stunning pillows for your home in three contemporary designs.
Sandra Betzina Sews for Your Home: Duvet Cover
Here's a home-dec project that will give your bedroom a new look and keep your comforter clean.
Corduroy
Discover techniques that yield superior results with this classic pile fabric.
Create Couture Lingerie
Delicate fabric and lace, a simple pattern, and fine sewing add up to a couture cami. Alexandra Armillas teaches you how to make one of your own.
Mastering the Narrow Hemmer, Part One
This pesky presser foot easily delivers precise narrow hems, once you teach it who's boss. Learn how to get the most from it in this three-part series.
More on Rejuvenating Vintage Garments
An evaluation checklist, plus cleaning and storage tips to help you revive time-worn fashions
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.
Bold, Bright Chintz
A home décor staple that's centuries old
Hooping Tips for Successful Embroidery
Discover fresh ideas for ease and accuracy when inserting your fabric in a machine embroidery hoop.
Samplings of Weft Knit and Warp Knit Fabrics
More examples of weft knit and warp knit fabrics:Take a look at a few common types of readily available knits.
The Scalloped Hem
Make hemlines the center of attention with this delightful couture finish.
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.
Rotary Cutters and Mats
Choose the right ones, and your scissors may just spend a lot of time in the drawer.
A Handy Chart of Fusible and Sew-in Interfacings
Before you cut and apply an iron-on or sew-in stabilizer, you need to choose the right type.
Create a High, Scrunch Collar
Learn how to draw a new pattern to make a scrunch collar.
Lush, Embossed Velvet
Design your own unique fabrics with rubber stamps and an iron
Master Class: More Great Fabric Manipulations
Raveling fabrics and cloth tubes can take your garments to a new embellishment level.
Basket-Weave Coat: the Inside Story
How do you transform basic basket-weaving into a jacket with a 22-panel lattice? See the pattern and the assembly technique.
Fitted Coat
This linear coat is inspired by the Denver Art Museum’s Hamilton Building, which was designed by the innovative architect Daniel Libeskind.
Peacock Dress
Inspired by Victorian and Arts and Crafts peacock motifs, this dress has an iridescent silk dupioni bodice with a cascading skirt.
Two Takes on Felting Wool Jersey
Exercise your creative options by shrinking wool jersey before, or after, embellishing with it.
Pattern Layouts
Get tips on layout and ideas on keeping your pattern pieces in place.
Choose the Correct Pattern Size
You can't rely on your ready-to-wear size when selecting a pattern size. Your best bet is to record your basic body measurements and refer to them when it's time to buy your pattern.
To Judge a Pattern, Start with Its Cover
It's critical to evaluate the fit and style of any pattern before you sew it. This crash course tells you what to look for.
Cut Up Your Patterns and Add Seams
Learn how to get extra style mileage from your favorite patterns by creating new seams.
An Assembly of Aprons
Dust off grandma's aprons and reintroduce them as new fashion accessories.
Vest, Turtleneck, and Leggings Ensemble
Christo's 2005 Gates Project in Manhattan inspired this inventive design.
Draped and Pieced Dress
Inspired by the Marcel Duchamp's painting Nude Descending the Staircase 2, this layered dress flows in triangular pieces, though the fabrics sections are square shapes.
Silk and Taffeta Jacket and Dress Ensemble
Svetlana Shalumova's creation was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's portrait of Mona Lisa del Giocondo.
Free Patterns: Mini-Quilt Templates in a Jiffy
Give miniature foundation piecing a try using our four free patterns, and preview some quilt-block software that makes it a breeze to print templates.
Mastering the Narrow Hemmer, Part Three
Carol Laflin Ahles explains basic hemming techniques: how to start and end at a corner, cross a seam, include a facing in the hem, and blend into the starting point. You'll also learn how to achieve special hemming effects with your narrow hemmer foot.
Mastering the Narrow Hemmer, Part Two
Carol Laflin Ahles explains how to sew a narrow hem, how to guide the fabric, and how to overcome common left-handed feeding problems.
Sources for Chic, New Eco Fabrics
Learn how to sew greener with these alternative fabrics.
Simplicity Pattern Collection from Threads
Bringing sewers the look they're after, Threads and Simplicity have introduced new patterns that feature an assortment of garment styles.
New Sewing Machines by Pfaff
Read what Pfaff is saying about its newly released models.
New Sewing Machines by Singer
Read what Singer is saying about its newly released models.
New Sewing Machines by Husqvarna Viking
Read what Husqvarna Viking is saying about its newly released models.
New Sewing Machines by Baby Lock
Read what Baby Lock is saying about its newly released models.
New Machines by Bernina
Read what Bernina is saying about its newly released 830 Series (coming soon).
Machine-Embroider Allover Lace
Make elegant lace on your home-embroidery machine that rivals the quality of the finest lace you can buy.
A Pin for Every Purpose
A pin is not just a pin. Consider its five parts: head, point, length, thickness, and metal content.
Copying Complex Garments
Even if your garment has lots of shaping and unusual pieces, making a pattern from it is straightforward—and doesn't require taking the garment apart.
Skipped Stitches on Ultrasuede
You can use this tissue paper trick to stop your machine from skipping stitches.
Interfacing Doesn't Always Have to Match
A wool crepe can be a great substitute for itchy and bulky tweed fabrics.
Elastic Connection
You can use these tips to eliminate bulk when sewing elastic waistbands.
Keep Track of Your Fabric Stash
You can use this method to keep track fo your fabrics; it will help you know if you have enough fabric for certain projects that you may have in mind.
Keep Stripes Symmetrical
Adding a seam and seam allowances allows you to keep collar-stripes symmetrical with those on the rest of your garment.
Keep Fabric Info Handy
Saving fabric information can be helpful for future purposes.
Prevent Prewash Fraying
A wide zigzag stitch can help minimize fraying.
Fabric Printing with a Brayer
This easy-to-find graphic-arts tool makes textural design on fabric as simple as using a paint roller.
Preventive Sewing-Machine Maintenance
Most sewing machine problems can be traced to poor general maintenance or neglect. Learn how to keep your machine in tiptop shape with only a few simple supplies and a few minutes of attention daily, weekly, or monthly— depending on how much you sew.
A Figure-Flattering Tee
Learn how to make a custom-fit surplice top that elongates the body and slims the waist.
Embellish Your Cardigan with Lace
Dress up a basic cardigan with Venise lace appliqué.
Sewing-Machine Needles: An Overview
Learn to recognize the many types of standard, decorative, and special-purpose machine needles. Discover what each is best for, and how to troubleshoot problems.
Machine-Needle Know-How
There are lots of needles to choose from. Ensure a project's success by selecting the right one.
Make a Sofa Wrap
Forget reupholstering or slipcovering: Draped and tucked fabric can transform your sofa in a speedy redo.
Free Pattern: Threads Shawl Collar Blouse
Download a schematic for a wrap-front, shawl collar blouse, and add your own twin-needle embellishment.
Bias 101
Master the tricks of sewing bias-cut garments with a simple style and foolproof fabric.
Easy Pleated Skirts
Learn how to make wash-proof pleats from drip-dry fabrics. Best of all, no pattern is required.
Not Your Ordinary T-Shirt
Customize a regular pattern for an elegant knit basic you'll sew again and again.
Yo-yos by the Hoopful
Learn how to turn your embroidery machine into a yo-yo assembly line.
How to Shop for Elastic
Sewing educator and author Connie Long explains how to get the right type and the right amount of elastic for a flexible waistline.
Make a Quick Summer Wrap
With just two yards of fabric and a couple of tassels, you can craft the perfect summer wrap in short order.
Make Your Own Rucci "Worms"
This bullion stitch, a favorite of designer Ralph Rucci, can be easily mastered with a little practice.
How to Replace a Broken Zipper
Replacing 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.
Identifying Treasures in Your Button Stash
Unfortunately, there are no set and easy ways to determine how much a button or set of buttons is worth; their value is determined by many factors. Learn how to identify what's rare in your collection.
Working with Vintage Patterns
Learn what it takes to stitch up beautiful garments from the past.
Drape a Skirt Sloper
Learn how to turn seams and darts into useful fitting and design tools.
Video: An Easy, Flat Fly-Front Zipper
Ignore the pattern instructions, says Sandra Betzina, and use this simplified version for "ready-to-wear" results.
Fabric Shopping with a Pro
Simplify making decisions at the fabric store by systematically comparing swatches.
Sheer Seams and Edges
A contemporary couturier shares techniques for making neat, narrow finishes on sheer and lightweight fabrics.
Making Sense of Stabilizers
Fabric stabilizers are rewriting the book on decorative sewing techniques, and new ones appear daily. Here's how to sort through the maze.
No-Mark Quilting
A quilting teacher explains how to create a stitching path without marking your fabric.
Make a Yoga Mat Carrier
Learn how to make this simple, easy-to-sew shape; quilted layers give the bag lasting strength.
Line and Underline in One Step
Discover a speedy assembly method that puts together all garment layers at once, and conceals all the seams.
How to Measure Up
Use our printable measurement chart and instructions to guide you through the process of taking and recording accurate body measurements
Sewing Lingerie that Fits: Fitting and Creating Patterns
Simple shapes, lingerie fabrics that stretch, and a lot of built-in roominess make fitting lingerie less of a headache than "serious" garments.
Easy and Elegant Linen
Linen does wrinkle, but once you get past that, you can start assessing its many charms. In this article Susan Khalje sings the praises of linen and explains how to get the most from this ancient fabric.
Introducing Decorator Fabrics
There's an astounding fabric source out there that most sewers don't know a thing about. Here's how to find it and shop it.
To Fit Your Body, Measure Your Clothes
Printable measurement charts for the clothes you like to wear most can tell you exactly how to fit garments you make.
A Primer on Sewing Knits
A guide for easy-to-make knit garments that look like ready-to-wear
Understanding Thread Tension
Learn how to use the tension devices on your sewing machine and how to thread for proper tension.
Choosing Machine-Embroidery Threads
All the options can be confusing. Here are guidelines for selecting the right threads for your embroidery projects.
Boning- Not just for Corsets
Learn how to engineer stability into all sorts of fitted garments with this couture technique.
Quilt it Freehand
Enjoy the freedom and creativity of hand quilting without marking.
Video: Variable-Width Facing on a Decorative Edge
Overlapping a brightly colored facing adds interest and style to your garment. In this video, designer Diane Ericson demystifies the technique of extending the facing around the edge of a seam.
Video: Two Custom Trims for Your Garments or Home
Using basic materials, simple sewing steps, and a sewing machine, it's surprisingly easy to mimic designer trims for use in your home and wardrobe. In this video, Linda Lee shows you how.
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.
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.
Video: Pressing Templates for a Sharp Edge
See how easy it is to create perfectly pressed hems and pockets.
Video: Embellishing with Paint Sticks
Stencil designer Laura Murphy uses paint sticks to transfer a surface texture to fabric.
Video: Do-It-Yourself Crushed Velvet
Use your iron to enhance the texture and bring out the color of this elegant fabric.
Video: Design Details with Fleece Cording
Cording made from fleece is especially effective for finishing irregular edges. In this video, clothing designer Rochelle Harper demonstrates the techniques.
Video: Making and Using a Muslin
Sarah Veblen shows you how to use a sample garment to get an exact fit from any pattern.
4 Belt Styles that are a Cinch to Make
With the variety of support and hardware options now available, creating a custom look has never been easier—or more fun.
Video: All-in-One Piping and Facing
Learn a technique that converts the piping flange to a self-finished facing, thereby eliminating the need for a separate facing or a lining.
Video: Cut Synthetics with a Hot Tool
The low melting point of synthetic shell fabrics makes cutting overlays with a hot tool a simple job.
Video: Conquering Inset Corners
Sewing teacher Shirley Smith demonstrates her technique for creating a crisp, 90-degree corner. The process works for corners of other angles, too.
Sew the New Box Pillow
Learn how to combine ample proportions, luxurious fabrics, and a few basic techniques to update this classic cushion.
Video: Accurate Darts without Permanent Marks
Use pins to transfer darts from pattern to fabric, and tape to mark the stitching line.
Video: A Visit to a Fabric Store
A guided tour for new sewers reveals a fabric store that has a lot more than just fabric.
The Merits of a Basic Fitting Pattern
Learn how to use a sloper to simplify altering commercial patterns.
Tapering or Widening Pants
Tapering and Widening pants involves more than just adjusting the leg seams; learn how to make a custom fit.
To Get the Right Armhole, Fit the Bodice
Learn how to successfully fit an armhole by using a muslin; Adjust bust, back, and shoulder—and your armhole almost takes care of itself.
Slipcover a Side Chair, Dressmaker-Style
Linda Lee explains how to make an easy pattern and use basic sewing skills to liven up a favorite chair.
Quick Reference for Cut-and-Spread Pattern Grading
To grade a pattern so it will fit different sizes, refer to the drawings and instructions and the two charts that follow.
The Great Elastic Waistband
Sewing professionals and designers share their secrets for comfortable, fashionable waistbands.
Knotted Fabric Buttons and Beads
Easy to make and virtually cost-free, knotted fabric beads and buttons can provide the perfect accompaniment to a unique outfit.
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.
Machine Embroidery: A Marriage of Fabric and Design
Learn how to pair the right design and fabric for great results: Guidelines for embroidering fabrics, from sheers to corduroy.
Everyone Can Have Jeans that Fit
Learn how to alter the pattern of your jeans for a customized fit.
Bag Your Jacket Lining
This ready-to-wear method of inserting a lining gives the fastest and most professional-looking results.
Five Must-Have Sewing Tools
These simple, inexpensive items make sewing easier and more enjoyable.
Twist-It-Up Bandeau Top
Take two fabric triangles and 30 minutes to get some great looks.
Video: Manuel's Free-Motion Embroidery Technique
An embroidered design starts with a drawing by designer Manuel and ends with the skilled hands and feet and knees of free-motion embroiderer Pancho Martinez.
Quilting Supplies by Mail
Quilters in search of quilting thread, batting, quilting betweens, and open-ended thimbles will find what they're looking for at the companies listed here.
Choosing the Right Batting
Will cotton, polyester, wool or silk batting work best for your project? Here's a handy chart that compares fiber content, prewash requirements, and more for 13 batting products.
Perfect Your Hand-Quilting Stitch
Tiny, even stitches are your reward for practice and understanding all that influences a hand-quilting stitch.
Bra-Making Sources by Mail
If you want to make a custom bra, you'll need patterns as well as elastic, hook closures, rings, slides, and more. Here are some companies that sell what you need.
The Bra Dilemma Solved
Once you select your style and perfect the fit, you can sew your own custom bra again and again.
Video: Make a Classic Leather Seam
Contact cement, a wallpaper roller, and a Q-tip don't sound like sewing notions, but they help to make a perfect seam in leather.
Window Treatments 101
A window-fashion professional shares her design strategies for creating effective window treatments for any room.
Silk-Ribbon Embroidery: Five More Stitches
See how Karen Kieppe use these basic stitches in designs created for her Granny May Company.
Beginners' Silk-Ribbon Embroidery: Five Easy Stitches
You can hand-embroider exquisite designs with just a few basic stitches: ribbon stitch, straight stitch, stem stitch, and French knots.
Couture Details Inside Ralph Rucci's Workroom
Feast your eyes on photos of couturier Ralph Rucci's remarkable garment designs.
Pipe-Wrapping Technique for Dyeing Fabric
You can create exciting patterns by wrapping loose folds of fabric around a pipe and tying it with string.
Wrap-and-Dip Technique for Dyeing Fabric
Wrapping with string protects parts of the fabric surface from contact with the bleach, creating a tie-dye effect.
Resist-and-Spray Technique for Dyeing Fabric
For a lovely patterned effect, place flat, detailed objects on a piece of fabric, then spray on a bleach solution.
Dyeing with Bleach
Lois Ericson shows you how to create uniquely colored and patterened fabrics with ordinary household bleach.
Meet the Threads Croquis Family: Your Tool for Fashion Sketching
Schematic figures are the basis of easy, accurate garment drawings. Download a set that matches common figure types to get you started on sketching unique garment designs.
Fashion Sketching for Untrained Artists
Industry shortcuts enable you to coax creative visions out of your head and onto paper.
Make a Drawstring Bag
Get patterns and instructions for a simple, quick-to-make drawstring bag.
Seam Finishes for Silks
Tame the slinkiest of fabrics with these finishing techniques: French seam, double zigzag, turned and stitched seam, Hong Kong seam, and serged seam.
Discover the Indian Sari
The Indian sari is an ancient and classic fashion. Sari fabrics range from sheers to heavy silks and wonderful handwoven cottons, so they can be adapted for many uses in modern sewing as well.
Video: A Neckline Binding for Knits
As when attaching a turtleneck, you divide the neckline and binding each into quarters, then stretch the binding to fit the neckline.
Make a Clutch Bag
Get patterns and instructions for a simple, quick-to-make clutch bag.
Make a Pleated Pouch Bag
Get patterns and instructions for a simple, quick-to-make pleated pouch bag.
Ralph Rucci's Double-Cloth Seams
Follow these step-by-step drawings and incorporate a couturier technique in your own garments.
Grade Your Pants for a Perfect Fit
If you've succeeded sizing your pattern to make a pair of pants that fit, you can record your changes on these downloadable planning sheets.
Online Fabric Shopping: A List of Resources
Browse some of the finest fabric shops on the continent-from the comfort of your own home.
Video: A Turtleneck Finish for Knits
Create a smooth, professional-looking edge that stretches.
Video: Boutis Provençal
Stitch first, stuff later—this sophisticated cousin to quilting makes a textured and completely reversible fabric.
Paper-Tape Dress Form
A paper-tape dress form is the easiest and cheapest of all.
Video: Manuel's Piped Pockets
Straight or curved, stitch the welts and form the pocket.
Molded Papier-Mâché Form
For an exact replica of your body, make a molded papier-mâché dress form.
Duct-Tape Dress Form #2
This take on the duct-tape method for making a dress form is a bit more difficult than method #1 but provides a closer fit.
Clone Yourself A Fitting Assistant
Every sewer needs a dress form. Here are four fast, cheap (and amusing!) ways to make your own.
Duct-Tape Dress Form #1
This quick and easy method of form making uses ordinary duct tape as both the body-casting material and the final form.
Online Sources for Elastics
For quality elastics used in high-end ready-to-wear, turn to the World Wide Web.
Use a Whetstone to Smooth Machine Needles
Using a whetstone can help extend the life of your needles
Choose the Right Notions when Sewing White Fabric
Tips for selecting notions for white fabric
Sewing In a Zipper
Learn now to install centered, lapped, and invisible zippers.
20 Ways to Improve Your Sewing
Use these sewing principles to streamline your work and greatly enhance its quality.
Smooth Curved Seam
A tip for sewing a convex curved piece to a concave curved piece
Zipper Finishing Made Easy
Use machine-basting and quilter's tape to sew a perfect zipper
Hemmer Foot for Piping
A hemmer foot allows for easier adjustment and better stitching
Drawstrings that Stretch
Elastic drawstrings make clothing more comfortable to wear and more accomodating to minor weight changes
Mirror Image Pleats
Notch the pleat positions on both the skirt and the waistband in order to get equally deep and evenly-spaced pleats.
Perfect Thread Tension Every Time
Perfect your tension setting by having the top and bobbin threads break in exactly the same place
Speaking of Buttons
A simple zigzag stitch allows you to sew lots of buttons by machine in half the time
No-Bulk Elastic Joint
Make a smooth elastic joint with the help of a thin piece of fabric
Color-Code Pleat-Marking Lines
Use different thread colors to differentiate between marked foldlines and placement lines
Binding with Fusible Thread
Use fusible thread in your bobbin for flawless binding aplications.
Prethread Serger Needles
Thread serger needles before putting them into the machine
Build in No-Slide Shoulder Straps
Use elastic cording to create no-slide shoulder straps
Neat Seams without Backstitching
A method for producing smoother, neater seams
Pin-Tuck Timesaver
To save time, sew tucks on the fabric before cutting
Add Support to Fabrics with Old Flannel Sheets
Used flannel sheets can provied the right backing for a variety of sewing projects
Put a Bead Behind That Button
Sewing a bead behind a button is an elegant trick that works with a variety of garments
The Most Important Button Position Is the One on the Bust Point Line
Determine your correct bust point
Tape Protects Ruler
Use tape to prevent ink marks
Stitch Buttons by Machine
Stitch buttons by machine for a more secure attachment in less time
Organize Your Button Stash
A strategy for keeping your button stash organized
Keep Track of Yardage
Tips for marking fabric measurments
Easy Needle Identification
Use an adhesive-backed clip to help keep track of which needle is in your sewing machine
Storing Thread Spools
Use finishing nails to help with spool storage
Multiple Uses for Kitchen Cutting Mats
Kitchen cutting mats help with a variety of sewing tasks
Thread Multiple Bobbins
Wind extra bobbins for better efficiency
Tilt Your Sewing Machine
A computer keyboard wrist rest can make sewing more comfortable
Keep Pinking Shears in the Pink
A soft brush helps eliminate lint and keeps pinking shears working properly
Mark Thread Spools to Remember Settings
Marking thread spools makes for easier readjustments
Dental Tools for Sewing
Dental tools can assist with a variety of sewing techniques
Removing Water-Soluble Marks
Use an envelope moistner and paper towel to get rid of water-soluble marks
Hand-Sew without Snags
Use lightweight fabric to prevent your thread from snagging
Sew a Buttonhole from the Ground Up
To improve your buttonhole sewing, sew the least noticed buttonhole first and work towards the most noticed buttonhole.
Tiger Tape Revisited
Tiger tape can improve your stitching and help you create even depth and width.
Two Threads Are Better Than One
Use separate strands of thread to prevent knots and tangles.
Save a Thread -- Thread a Needle
Make use of long strands of thread.
A Home for Thread Ends
Transfer extra thread to a tapestry needle to make for convenient sewing tasks and repairs in the future.
Twist-Free Hand Sewing
Wind your thread onto a bobbin to prevent kinks and ensure smooth hand sewing.
Press While You Sew; Iron Finished Items
There are four distinct times to press your garments while you are sewing.
Weatherproof Fabrics Require Special Pressing Techniques
Use these tips and techniques for optimal results when pressing weatherproof fabrics.
Troubleshooting Pressing Problems
Use these tips to get optimal pressing results.
Fitting Full, High Hips
Add a second dart at the waist for a better fit.
A Better 3-D You
You can pad your dress form to mimic your own, unique shape.
Suspension Skirt
You can use this method to prevent your skirts from riding up in front.
Loosen a Snug Underarm
A fast, easy, and unconventional way to loosen a blouse in the underarm area
Remember Which Pattern You Used
Use this tip to remember which patterns you've sewn from your pattern collection and whether or not they were successful.
Keep Track of Fitting Order
You can use a rainbow color order to keep track of your adjustments.
Equal Spacing for Buttons, Snaps, etc.
Use this trick for positioning a series of buttons, buttonholes, snaps, or any sewing detail.
Marking Seamlines on Silks
You can use this method to mark seamlines on hard-to-handle, slippery silks and lining fabrics.
Matching Patterns on Pockets
Here's a simple trick for matching pocket fabric when cutting out a print shirt.
For My Finale, the Jacket
A tip for making an outfit with multiple matching garments
Tape Tips
Advice on various tape solutions
Trace Patterns Vertically
Advice for tracing original patterns vertically
Pattern Markings Made Easier
Learn how to speed up the process of transferring pattern markings to the fabric.
Mark Buttonholes on Fleece
Use masking tape as a guide when marking buttonholes.
Graph Paper for Pockets
Graph paper can act as a sewing guide to help you sew straight seams and square corners.
Don't Embroider That Design, Yet!
Avoid some of the most common mistakes of machine embroidery.
A Safe Way to Sew Beaded Fringe
Using a glue stick while sewing beaded fringe can help you keep from breaking beads or needles.
Brooching Delicate Fabrics
This technique helps keep your delicate fabrics from tearing.
Speedy Sequin Application
Use a pencil and glue to apply cupped sequins.
Tape Guide for Topstitching
Use masking tape for straight topstitching.
Design Without Drawing
A scanner can provide great help with your design elements and patterns.
No Alterations Needed
Change your seam allowances so you won't have to make pattern alterations.
Make a Sewing Worktable
Learn how to make a useful and affordable table for your sewing room.
Button Purse Feet
Learn how to make "button purse feet" to protect the fabric on the bottom of your purse.
Liquid Skin Thimble
Learn how to create a flexible, protective thimble
How to Cut Thread on an Airplane
A substitute for scissors that you can take with you on an airplane.
Sewing Inspiration from Old Movies
Costumes of the 1930s and '40s have appealing style lines and unusual dress detailing that can give your wardrobe a custom-made look; old movies can provide sewing and design inspiration.
End Metallic Thread Woes
Use dual threading to give more definition to your stitch.
Trick for Removing Buttonhole Stitching
Use a seam ripper to help remove buttonhole stitches.
Stop Hand-Sewing Tangles
Use this tip to avoid tangles when hand-sewing.
When Thread Is Too Short for Even One More Stitch
An Easy Threading needle can help solve your stitching dilemma.
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The Construction of Bras
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