Threads #185, June/July 2016

The Pickstitched Lapped Zipper

Sew a couture closure that is always discreet.

The Magazine

Articles

How Fashion Designers Use Art to Inspire Dressmaking

See how members of the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals (ASDP) found garment inspiration from art masterpieces and famous artists like Monet and Matisse.
Notions: The Shirtmaking Workbook

All you need to know about making shirts.
Fitting Plus-Size Sleeves

Expert pattern solutions to flatter fuller arms.
Choose the Right Marking Tools

Get set to transfer symbols with the right tool for your fabric.
From Body Scan to Custom Dress Form

3-D scanning creates an accurate copy of your figure.
16 Smart Sewing Tips from Professor King

Techniques and advice to boost your sewing skills.
How to Create Facings

Learn how to draft and sew these supportive edge finishes.
Video: How to Attach an All-in-One Facing

Discover two methods for installing a facing that finishes the neckline and armhole.
Four Smart Ways to Finish a Facing Edge

In Threads #185 (June/July 2016), Daryl Lancaster teaches the essentials of drafting and installing facings. Learn the best ways to finish those facing edges.
Pattern Review: Indygo Junction Sophia Swing Coat

A roomy A-line coat from the Crossroads by Amy Barickman collection is a fresh take on a light topper.
Pattern Review: Vogue 1456 Tunics

Try a contemporary tunic designed by Sandra Betzina for her Today’s Fit line for Vogue Patterns.
Tip: Divide Measurements Easily

Discover a handy trick for evenly dividing a measured length.
Pattern Review: McCall's 7254 Jackets and Vests

When is a jacket as comfortable as a cardigan? When it is designed for knits only. This pattern for casual jackets and vests offers five views with length and sleeve…
Pattern Review: In-House Patterns Belle Blouse

Revisit classic femininity with this 1940s-inspired blouse. Two views offer a choice of a traditional rolled collar or a classic bias-cut, bow-style collar.
Notions: Sew Cute Summer Shoes

This collection of supplies makes it easier than ever to assemble your own shoes.
Notions: Diminutive Pins

These tiny pins are perfect for piecing and applique.
Notions: A Fine Point for Pressing

A stiletto is a valuable tool for holding fabric in place with high precision.
Free-Motion Guides | Notions

Achieve greater control while free-motion stitching with these lightweight guides.
Notions: Convenient Swatch Organizers

Here's a clever way to keep your swatches organized on the go.
Notions: Easy Hem Measuring

Having one of these around will make hemming a breeze.
Notions: Roll to Measure

This specialized tool was designed with measuring curves in mind, and it shows. Simply roll it along a curve to get an accurate measurement.
Mercerizing Makes Cotton Extrasmooth

Learn more about the process of mercerizing and what effect it has on a fabric.
Investigating a Mystery Luxury Fabric

Many luxury garments claim they are made out of a fabric called "cady." But fabric suppliers in the U.S. don't stock anything by that name. Join us as we get…
Get Inspired by Art: Design Challenge Winners Revealed

View the original artworks that inspired the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals' latest fashion challenge.