Replies

1. 
   Qjillzeta | Jan 31, 2021 07:42pm | #1

   Two tips I can give you. There is a liquid product you can buy to preserve the color of linen and other fabrics. Bright linen fades a lot in the wash. The other is to use 58/60 inch wide fabric. Cutting plus size pattern pieces on the bias uses a lot of fabric and you need the width. At least 3 yards. You may still need to piece it. Also if you are in pain, usually someone you know has a used sewing machine they can give you for free or you can find one at a garage sale or thrift store for $25. Its easy using a machine.

2. 
   BelleBeryl | Feb 18, 2021 04:11pm | #2

   Thanks for the tips. I have a sewing machine since the 1980s a Brother but the tension was always problems. I got it out of storage and oiled it and was cleaning it and as I put it gently on side ...it had loose bits deep inside it that had visibly broken off was plastic small bits. I have no idea if they are important bits. I ask on other forum about this and added picture of the broken bits.
   A person there says try to use it like this, maybe it still works.
   So I went to look for my sewing machine threads but when I test some pieces they break off.
   Which is why I gave up on machine sewing, again, it is also much too heavy to lift/move with my OA.

   
3. 
   user-5258875 | Feb 23, 2021 01:53pm | #3

   If you have a good hand sewn set of stiches there is no reason not to do that. most everyone in the sewing community recommends japanese hand sewing needles. i also really enjoy stitching with bohin french hand sewing needles. they are high quality . i haven't encountered any burrs or pulling with them at all.

4. 
   barbara_t | Feb 28, 2021 06:12pm | #4

   I would suggest getting a pattern; that would make deciding on the yardage you need much easier.