Sewing Tips to Save Time and Money

By Ethan O. Tanner

Prior to tossing out pants, cut off the belt loops and use them to stitch on the inside of children's coats and jackets for a coat loop. Now the coats will not fall off the hooks at school. Before tailoring on buttons, tape each one where it goes with a line of transparent tape. After the beginning stitches are done you can take away the tape.

To avoid pinholes when hemming delicate garments, mark the hemline with tailor's chalk and use clips to hold the fold in place. Chalk is also an excellent way to mark patterns on leather, especially suede leather.

Prevent future errors in sewing by slipping a memo into individual patterns explaining any size alterations or changes for that item. A post it note works real well for this shortcut.

Prevent fraying by reinforcing the hems with a row of zigzag stitching in a matching or contrasting color. Sew a large button on each end of the drawstring on pajamas and sweat suits. This will keep the string from disappearing.

Keep a reel of clear nylon thread on hand. Because it is lucid it will catch the color of the fabric. This will as well work when a spool runs out and the reel is just about empty; merely put the clear thread on your bobbin. Set a thin sheet of foam rubber under your sewing machine's foot pedal to keep it from slipping around when you use it on an uncarpeted surface.

Stock a magnet in your sewing basket to draw in loose pins and attach one to your sewing machine to hold additional needles. If you paste a small magnet to the end of a wooden yardstick you will not have to bend over to pick up any pins that spill on the floor.

Try this economical substitute for custom-cut table pads: Place a quilted mattress cover over your table top and trim with scissors for a custom fit. You'll have a sturdy, heat-absorbent table pad to protect the finish of your table.

For a substitute needle threader: Push the needle through a sheet of white paper, the eye will be easier to see. When shopping for accessories for a recent sewing project, staple a small fabric sample to an index card and carry it with you to the stores. To organize loose buttons: String them on twist ties and twist the ends together for an easy way to store them.

Sewing leather can be an unusual experience for the beginner. Make certain to use a good bonded nylon thread for appropriate durability. A tripoint needle will work very well as it is necessary to pierce the tough leather material. An effective leather shears is also critical for cutting the stronger, tougher leather material. - 29956

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