Alterations & Repairs

A lot of people don’t know the difference between altering an item or repairing it. Today I will explain the difference between the two.

Alteration: 
To alter a ready made garment means to change it in some way and make it fit or look better or more up to date.

Alterations are normally done with a sewing machine.

The garment will look as if it was made to fit you!

Example of alterations range from taking in the side seams of a skirt or trouser, shortening a pair of jeans to shortening the shoulder of a lined jacket to make it more flattering.


Repairs: 
To repair something means fixing what has been torn or ripped.

Repairs can either be done by hand or by a sewing machine.

Example of repairs range from replacing a broken zip, button that have come loose to patching the knee of your favourite jeans.

Altering or repairing you garments is a great way to save money and the satisfaction of a job well done.

So get out the sewing machine or needle and thread and start saving money NOW....

Interfacings!

One of my students asked me the other day what was the difference between fusing and interfacing?

Answer:  Fusing and interfacing is the same thing.

We use interfacings to stabilize, add shape and give structure to a sewing project.
Interfacings come in different fabric types, such as knit, woven and non-woven.

The difference is that one is fusible, this means that there is glue spread over one side and when heated with an iron, it sticks directly to the wrong side of the fabric and is permanently bonded.

You then have what is know as sew-in, this one is basted to the project edge on the inside before you start to make it.

Where to use interfacing: It can be used anywhere to add body, shape and firmness.
For example: necklines, front & back openings, waistbands, collars, cuffs, tabs, welts, flaps, pockets and some button-holes. You could also use it to add weight and support in the hemlines of jackets and coats.

Serger Sewing

This is the course to take if you are venturing into this very different realm of sewing. We will hold your hand as you learn about the machine and the basics of Serging.

We want everyone to get their sergers out and learn to use it.  Using a serger is fun, fast and easy to use.  Different machine can use between 2 to 5 threads at any one time to sew. 

A Serger creates the stitch found on the inside of ready to wear clothes where the thread wraps around the edges of the fabric (called a seam finish). It also cuts away the excess fabric of the seam allowance as it sews.

A serger/overlocker can be used for many aspects of sewing.  You will learn to use it for decorative stitching that shows on the outside of clothing, as well as making a full garment. 

The serger/overlocker does not replace your normal sewing machine, but it is a great companion to one and can save a lot of time when sewing

Facebook

We have finally come up to date and joined Facebook
Please go to The Art of Sewing and Crafting School and like.

Teach sewing this summer

Here is a fantastic article I found while doing my research about sewing: Its worth taking the time to read, especially if you have children.....

Teach sewing this summer

Article by: Carol Boles has a master's degree in Special Reading and an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has more than ten years experience teaching K-12 reading in public schools. She now manages her own business and is a member of The Lieurance Group, a freelance writer's cooperative. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.teacherspetplace.blogspot.com 

Summer has barely begun, even so you've probably already heard, "I'm bored." So, why not introduce your older children to sewing while teaching them a skill they will use the rest of their lives. 

Here are a few reasons I think sewing skills are important for children to learn: 

• I encourage parents to not only teach their daughters but also include their sons in sewing lessons. My son used to ask, "Why don't you show me how to use the sewing machine?" He's always interested in what I'm sewing and eager to participate. Really, he's not particularly unusual, since so many famous fashion designers are men. 
• Assembling any kind of garment or completing a sewing craft project requires reading instructions. Learning to read a pattern and it's accompanying directions teaches children how to read sequential instructions. 
• Sewing involves math. Children will learn how to figure the amount of yards (of material) needed for a particular project and then accurately measure them out using either a ruler or tape measure. 
• Sewing teaches children about different kinds of fabrics. As your children learn about fabrics they will learn how different fabrics are laundered. This naturally leads them into lessons on how to operate the washer and dryer and how to take care of their clothing. 
• Ironing is a companion skill to sewing. As your children learn to sew a garment or craft project they will be introduced to ironing because it is usually required during and after construction. 
• As your children become proficient at sewing they will be able repair pieces of their clothing. They will be able sew up torn seams and hem garments on perfectly good pieces of clothing which otherwise might have been thrown out or given away. 
• Don't worry if you don't sew or own a sewing machine. Many fabric and quilt shops offer summer sewing camps for boys and girls. Classes are held once a week, for several weeks, where children are taught basic skills and complete a simple sewing project.
• Break the summer boredom blues and teach your children a skill they can use the rest of their lives. They're going to be so proud of their finished products, and the best part, you're spending quality time with your children. 

Solutions to Sewing Problems

Ok, so we have finally done a lot of research on all things sewing and with our vast knowledge and experience within the fashion trade,  are now ready to give you tips and advice!

We will be giving out solutions to problems you ask each week and also some helpful tips and advice to help you enjoy your sewing experiences a little more

So if you have any questions, We will do our best to answer them for you.

Tip 1:
Try not to work on a project or fabric that you don’t like. Choose a fabric that you love and you will get a lot more enjoyment as you cut and make your project.

Tip 2:
Always trim away the threads as you work, there is nothing more frustrating than when you get to the end of the project, you then have to go back and clean it up. The threads can also get in the way as you construct the project.

Tip 3
Always have everything available and ready before you start. You don’t want to leave half way through.


Tip 4
Don’t be a messy sewer. Its hard to be creative in an untidy surroundings.

2012 sewing classes

Hi again, sorry I haven’t been here for a while but I have been really busy building our new web site www.theartofsewing.ie. It is really looking great and I have just put up the new course dates for 2012.

Keep your fingers crossed that we will get loads of bookings through it.

I will start giving helpful information soon once I get to do research on all things to do with sewing.

BintyBags is going from strength to strength and had a great time at the National Craft & Design Fair in the RDS last week. For some great Christmas presents go to www.bintybags.com