SEWING SHORTCUTS

There are times in life where a shortcut is just the ticket. Who wants to sit in congested traffic when there is a shortcut to be taken? Of course, on the flip side, sometimes a shortcut can lead to disaster or a dead end. Just like anything, there is a time and place for a shortcut - and there are times when you just need to take the time and learn the process, avoiding the shortcuts. (Next month we'll deal with shortcuts NOT to take)

When it comes to sewing, there are several things that can be learned from those with experience - things that can save you time, energy, and effort. Here are some sewing shortcuts to consider:

1. Magnets

You will be amazed at how the use of a magnet or magnet wand can really make a difference. At some point, sharp pins and needles will find their way to the floor. A magnet can save you time (and possible pain) by quickly finding the small items that can camouflage themselves - especially in carpet! You can also glue magnets onto a small pan or dish where you can store needles and pins. Magnets can also be used to catch pins you remove when sewing a seam. 

2. Magnetic Strip

Most of the time you only see the use of a magnetic knife strip in the kitchen. Why should this amazing invention only be limited to one area of the house? Install one in your sewing room to keep scissors and other sewing items handy. 

3. Power Strip for the Win

This idea is genius! How many of us have left the sewing room, only to wonder if you’ve left the iron plugged in? If the iron is plugged into the same power strip that the table lamp is plugged into, you won’t ever have to worry. You’re welcome!

4. Binder Clips, Clothes Pins & More

Sometimes a pin just won’t cut it (or stay in). Fabrics that are stiff and heavy can be hard to get the pin through, and those fabrics that are light and delicate often allow pins to slide right out. On the flip side, stiff and heavy fabrics can prove to be difficult to pin. Alternatives include binder clips, clothespins, basting stitches, safety pins, as well as adhesives such as basting spray. 

5. Rotary Cutter & Mat vs. Scissors

Scissors are great - but sometimes there is a quicker way. A rotary cutter, along with a self-healing mat makes the cutting process so much faster. The fabric doesn’t flex, and the cutter is so much more accurate. Always make sure that the blade on the cutter is sharp. 

6. Toothpick

There’s nothing more frustrating than sewing a button on - flat to the material, leaving no flexibility for the button to squeeze through the buttonhole. By using a toothpick or a matchstick underneath the button as you sew the initial stitches will create the space you need. When you remove the toothpick, just sew some extra thread around the stitches underneath the button to form a solid shank. 

Marshall Dry Goods

If you want to learn more about shortcuts and sewing in general, give Marshall Dry Goods a call. If you have questions, or simply need to gear up for your next project, come see us at 310 West Main Street in Batesville, Arkansas. See you soon - and remember - next month we will be discussing shortcuts NOT to take.