While trying to use my embroidery machine, my needle keeps breaking. I think I have stabilized correctly. I used a medium weight iron on stablizer on a medium weight cotton and am just trying to monogram a name. What would cause this?
Maureen says:
It could be several things but what you've described sounds like a tension issue. Make sure your machine is threaded correctly. Make sure your bobbin is loaded correctly. Look at the back of your design and make sure you can see the bobbin thread and not too much of your top thread. Refer to your owners manual for your sewing machine for instructions on when to increase or decrease your tension and how to do it. My guess is that your tension is too tight.
Kim, making curtains for the first time asks:
I'm thinking of doing it in a chocolate organza/silk like fabric. Any tips or pointers?
Maureen says:
Organza can be difficult to sew and it frays like crazy. My first rule of sewing curtains is to make absolutely sure you have your grain line straight. It makes a major difference in how they will look when they're hanging. Just take your time with the organza. It's a little difficult to press the hems into, but just use a press cloth and a steam iron. If it frays a lot, get some Fray Check and take the time to treat all the edges. It would be time well spent for all the hassle it could save you.
For much more detailed help, check out this link from Simplicity.
For much more detailed help, check out this link from Simplicity.
Kay asks: What can I use to line the inside of a cosmetic bag so I can wipe it out?
Maureen says:
Here are just a few of your options. You can use PUL fabric, any regular fabric of your choice with an iron-on vinyl, flannel backed vinyl (like you'd see in a vinyl tablecloth), vinyl, pleather. If you use washable fabrics on the inside and outside, you can just throw the whole thing in the washing machine, which is what I usually do.
Cheryl asks: When I use a pattern size based on my measurements and make the size they say, it's always too big. The pattern size is way bigger than my regular size anyway. How can I figure out what my size really is in patterns?
Maureen says:
Often on the bottom of the pattern envelope back, it tells you what the actual finished size of the item will be based on each of the sizes. You can also measure the pattern pieces, subtract the seam allowances, and see this for yourself on the pattern. Depending on how tight or roomy you like to wear your clothes, this can be very helpful. You always want your clothes to be bigger than your measurements, but how much bigger? That's what you'll have to decide. Sometimes it depends on what you're making. I recommend looking at these measurements and making the size that best corresponds to the finished size you want.
Do you have a sewing question? Post it here or email me and I'll answer it for you. If I can't answer it, I'll find someone who can. So go ahead. Ask away in the comments area.
