I've been sewing for a long time but I still learn new things all the time. So, I thought I would share with you a couple of things I've learned that may help others who sew.
1)
Don't be afraid to write on your patterns! I make all kinds of notes on my patterns - especially the instructions. Occasionally, I find errors on professionally published patterns even when I've followed the instructions to the "T". I certainly don't want to make those same mistakes if I use the pattern again. Sometimes, I just find an easier way to do something so I make a note of that, as well. And, I use highlighters a lot! Sometimes, you press seams open; sometimes to the front, back or side. Sometimes, you fold and press a notched edge - or an unnotched edge. When it's something specific and out of the ordinary, I highlight it.
2)
Quickly skim through all the instructions before you start. Sometimes the pattern envelopes don't tell you
everything you need to complete the project. By reading through the instructions before you begin, you may find some little notion that you are going to need that could halt your progress if you don't find it until mid-construction. Sometimes that little hiccup can be discouraging and make it difficult to get back on track.
3)
Lay out the pattern pieces in the order you will need for construction. I do this so that I don't accidentally forget a pocket or facing and have to rip out a seam - or several - to backtrack and put in the offending item.
4)
Use a sticky note (or flag) to mark your spot if you have to step away from your project for an extended length of time. Of course, at my age, that could just mean overnight or lunchtime! This is especially helpful if you don't have a dedicated sewing space and need to pack things away because of guests - or dinner.
5)
Have a system for keeping notes. Since I am a professional seamstress and serve a lot of returning clients, I have learned to keep note cards regarding their measurements, patterns they like, any alterations I've made to said patterns, etc. That way, when my customer from Vermont contacts me and needs new trousers, I don't have to get all his measurements each time. I just verify that he is wearing the same size that I have on file. It shows them I really care about them, their likes and dislikes, and it saves time! I also keep a file on all my family members. I update it about once a year - especially info on the grandkids. They grow so fast and their favorite colors and special emphases (unicorns, kitties, baseball, etc.) change quite often.
I'll add more tips in future blogs. In the meantime, if you have questions, just ask. If I know the answer I'll tell you. If I don't, I'll find someone who does or direct you to another resource. And, if you have any tips you would like to share, let me know.
Happy sewing!
Infant and toddler nighties Left: Dad's shirt repurposed for his newborn daughter. Right: Cancer awareness shirts repurposed to honor a new grandmother of twins fighting cancer at the time. She's a survivor now!
Teddy bears made to match the recipients' tshirt quilts we also made. They had a few too many designs to fit on their quilts but designs too good to end up in the scrap bag.
