Sewing Techniques

 

Rotary Cutter

A favorite technique is utilized when cutting out several straight fabric layers at the same time.  The Rotary Cutter (looks like a pizza cutter) is a fabulous cutting device that saves much in time.  When using the Rotary Mat with the ruler measurements, then a straight yardstick and the Rotary Cutter together, then lots of fabric can be cut at the same time.  This is especially a favorite for quilters.

Pattern Marking Secrets

  
The patterns have all kinds of marks on it and usually need transfer to the fabric to promote sewing accuracy of the pieces.       

• There are markings to line up one piece to another.  These do not need pen markings and can just be cut around the diamond on the pattern.

• Darts require markings to line up the darts acurately.  Before sewing the dart, just stick a pin in each of the dots on the dart lines.  This allows the darts to be folded in half evenly and pins can be pulled out just prior to sewing close to the pin on the dart lines.

• Pleat lines can be utilized by clipping the edge of the fabric and folding, pinning and sewing the pleat onto the other fabric piece.

• Middle lines on pattern pieces can be clipped to assist in lining the middle of the next piece

• Pockets are typically lined up on the pattern with lines outlining the pocket with dots.  When ready to sew the pocket on, just place pins through the pattern to utilize as your marker to place your pocket and pin it to the area to sew.

Gathering Fabric

Gathering is used for skirts, sleeves, ruffles, etc.

Gathering of fabric is best completed by running two gathering stitch lines (one on the inside and one on the outside of the seam allowance).  When gathering these two stitches evenly over the length sewn, it is easier to prevent puckering in the seam with the gathered fabric.