Tailoring Your Threads for a Newer, Thinner You
Happy New Year!
Do you know the number one New Year’s resolution? You guessed it: GETTING FIT! Wouldn’t it be nice to “look” ten pounds thinner by altering your clothes? YOU can! To jump start the new year, let’s tackle a few simple ways to do just that! We all have a baggy blouse. Tailoring a few simple darts will remove the appearance of pounds from your mid-section immediately. I grabbed my son George to model since he wanted to learn how to tailor a few of his shirts after losing 20 lbs. Here’s how!
- Turn the shirt inside out and put it on. Button up. If you have a dress form – yippeee! Determine if there’s enough extra fabric for two front darts, or four front and back darts. I opted to take in the sides on this shirt because there was a pocket in the way of the dart on the left.
- Pinch your waist fabric evenly on both (or all) sides and pin.
- Place pins upward and through the armhole, especially if sleeves are too full. Taper just above the cuff on sleeves. If you’re making darts on a woman’s blouse, taper to 1″ below the apex (tip of the bust line.)
- Place pins downward while tapering to 2″ above the hem, unless the hem circumference is too wide. In this case, in the back, I ran the dart all the way down into the hemline. Besure to leave ease for buttoning. This necessitated removing the hemline stitching for an inch on either side of the dart, and pressing the removed hem/stitch dart/trim to even the hemline or re-hem.
- IMPORTANT! Fold the shirt in half and compare sides with a measuring tape. Adjust pins to make the darts even in both length and width on both sides.
- Match upper and bobbin thread to the shirt and stitch the darts from the waist to the tapered tips. Lockstitch the ends of the seams at the points.
- Steam press dart allowance AWAY from center. Clip in center and narrow the dart allowance by trimming or serging. You’re Looking Good!!!!
*TIP: The larger the print, the wider the silhouette. If you want to appear thinner, start with a solid color.
*TIP: Moving the cuff buttons to tighten the fit also helps add to a slimmer silhouette.
WHAT’S NEW?
I’m sew excited and thrilled beyond words to introduce my brand-new DarStar Scissor Kits! They are certainly a stand out, must-have item in the world of sewing arts. All the tools are custom designed and hand forged for precision from German-grade stainless steel, for rust-free strength and long term durability. The elegant brushed finish collections nestled in a reusable black velvet zippered pouch will let everyone know that these gems are off-limits. Both kits – embroidery and sewing – were developed for the discerning sewers in quilting, fashion, home decor and embroidery. They will make a valuable addition to your sewing arsenal. Look for their world launch on January 26th!
EMBROIDERY KIT: Item #156083
The embroidery four-piece value set is designed to cut threads in the hoop, as well as trim away stabilizers, mistakes and unwanted jump threads without poking or damaging the embroidery designs. The kit comes with a lifetime sharpening guarantee (just pay $6.00 S&H.)
When tiny fibers count, having the right tool to harness the unsightly frays can make a BIG difference! Large ring microtips are easy to hold and maneuver for any finger size. The sharp microtip offers pinpoint accuracy in selecting and isolating the correct threads to evenly cut in tight spaces. The 4″ curve scissors are perfect for crewelwork, beading and other needle arts. The 6″ double bent embroidery reach right inside the hoop-to-trim jump threads and tails without poking or marring your embroidery design. The 4.5″ easy snips are spring loaded and work effortlessly with a slight squeezing action reducing finger fatigue.
SEWING KIT: Item # 156087
The sewing five-piece value set is designed to help you clean trim your appliqués, open buttonholes, trim interfacings and threads and more with ease and precision. This kit helps you save time, eliminate frustration and achieve more professional looking results. It comes with a lifetime sharpening guarantee (just pay $6.00 S&H.)
The 4″ mini-duck-bill will provide more leverage while maneuvering around shadow appliqué and interfacings. The razor sharp 5.5″ seam ripper has an extra-long handle and comes with an easy to change blade. The safety screw top stiletto is like having an extra set of hands to hold small seam allowances and trims in place while you sew. The 4″ large ring fine tip fits any finger size and allows you to isolate and clean trim even the most intricate cutwork and buttonholes. The 6″ hefty craft scissors will slice through multiple layers and trims.
ALWAYS EMBROIDERY RULES
- ALWAYS use BOBBINFIL thread in the bobbin. This thread is not slippery and is thinner than other threads so it will get you ‘more miles per gallon’ before running out.
- ALWAYS use the bobbins that came with your embroidery machine. Slight differences – even ones smaller than the eye can see – will wreak havoc with your stitch out quality.
- ALWAYS use embroidery needles recommended by the manufacturer. All needles are NOT created equal and some models will give you constant ‘error’ messages when the wrong needle is installed. Using the right needle will cut down on ‘bird’s nests’ in the bobbin as well.
- ALWAYS use a stabilizer. Whether it’s Tear-away, Wash-away, Melt-away, Cut-away or Sticky, using a stabilizer will ensure consistent results, less tendency to stretch, warp or otherwise distort and supply a solid foundation to preserve the design through washings.
For more tips and tricks for sewing, tune in on January 26th for a brand NEW anniversary special from Singer!
Wishing you a Very Happy New Year!
Darlene
I purchased the Futura Quarter 4-in-1 as the TS before Christmas. I have always done lots of mending (hubby’s torn jeans, workshirts, etc) in the past, and I like the numerous stitches this machine offers. It sews pretty well, but I have not tried the embroidery features yet.
But when I do the zigzag / mending stitch on this machine, I can’t get it to do “reverse” stitching. I’m able to hit the reverse button, but it only does a close-off stitch and then reverses only FOUR stitches! What am I missing here? Only four stitches? Is there a work-around for this? I am accustomed to going back and forth several times to cover my patch. I can’t easily “turn” the item to stitch in a square, for example, because sometimes I’m mending a knee. This is where the open-arm works great, but I need the reverse stitch!!! Any ideas here? Thanks so much.
Hello Dariene, when is HSN going to get brothers embroidery cards for the Embroidery Machines. That be so nice to buy them off HSN. I love it when you have the sewing and craft mth. When well the next one be on. I’ve got all 4 of my brother and Singer Embroidery machine off HSN. I love all of them. Hope to see the brother cards soon…
Hello Darlene, I just received my Heavy Duty Sewing machine with all the wonderful feet and quilting table. My question is about the attachment for the Flower Stitch Foot. I am having trouble to attach this foot, is there anywhere I can see how it is done?
Thank you.
Hanni
Hi Darlene, I too have purchased the singer 160 and I don’t know how to sew. I will be taking a beginners sewing class soon. Where can I buy an instructional dvd for this particular sewing machine. I better at visual instructions than reading.
Thanks Ruby
I thought I was logging in to see what Darlene’s answer was. I would love to have her on a DVD demonstrating all the techniques she does when selling machines on hsn.
Pat
Hello Darlene, hope day is going good. Darlene i watch you on HSN when ever you are on…I need a little help I have 17in upper arms and I would like to know how to alter a pattern to fit my arms can you please help me
msvic63
Hi Darlene, I love watching you on hsn, I have several machines I’ve purchaced from them, you’re such an inspiration.Can you ask singer to make an binding attachment& belt loop maker to be used with the professional 5 thread serger. I have been all over the web looking and can’t find anything. Even if it cost a little more than the regular feet I’ll be willing to pay. Thanks, Saundra W
Hi Darlene, I also purchased the Singer 160th Anniversary Sewing Machine! During the presentation, I remember you described a way to do “gathering” and since this machine didn’t come with a “gathering foot”, could you describe the technique again or would it be on your facebook page? I’m also interested in finding out some nifty uses for the twin needle capability that this machine has. I remember you mentioned it and said you would talk about it more, but I must have missed it. Next time maybe?
Darlene p.s. enjoyed seeing your son as a model.. He did great!!
Hi sewing inspiration and teacher..I am waiting patiently for the singer 160. My question to you is that I just bought your 4 set embroidery set and would like to know if your five set will be back in March. I’d love to pick that up too. I think it will help to keep those scissors right in the case and be able to find them easier. Thanks for always taking that extra step for all of us who want to learn.
Hi Darlene, While researching the net on the Singer Futura Quartet, I came across a Singer Futura Quartet XL 550. This machine boast a small LCD screen, 215 stitches, an automatic thread cutter, and the same upgraded features as the quartet we have here but only it’s currently not available in USA. Can you convince Singer to please please please bring it to us here in the USA, I bet this would be a sell out on HSN as well… Let me know what you think.
Thanks, Arturo
HI Kyucker, I hope you were able to pick up the TS on Thursday. Here’s the measurements: Approx. 23-1/2″L x 10″W x 13″H It is a must have for any sewing enthusiast–you are right about that! Enjoy!!!
Hi Darlene, taped and watched your shows yesterday and loved all of the new ideas. My question is I’ve had my CG550 for years, love it BUT for heavy duty sewing it does not have a high lift presser foot which is very unhandy making the corded bowls and now I’m working on burp cloths with diapers. I need a higher lift. Which of the commercial grades has this? I have 7 Singers and looks like headed towards 8 if I can find what I need. Thanks
I bought the Stylist sewing machine and serger when tney were the Today’s Special some time ago. I love them both, but with every new machine/serger you have new feet. Where can I get some of the new feet? Does HSN carry them?
Hi Abigirl,
I haven’t seen individual feet on sale at HSN but I’m positive that if you google them you’ll see where you can pick them up. I know they’re at several e-tailers. I can give you more specific links if you e-mail me at darlcahill@tampabay.rr.com.
Thank you for ordering your Stylist Duo from HSN.
Hi Darlene, I was wondering if you or Singer have a recommended even feed foot (walking foot) for quilting on the Singer 160 that was the special today? Thanks.
I bought the wonderful new machine last night and you were saying you had a chart on face book. I do not have face book….any other way to get the chart? The machine is so gorgeous. I will be my 5th singer in the last 5 years!!
HI Jonniegirl 144, I will be happy to send you the Cheat Sheets via e-mail but you have to drop me a line so I’ll have your address. DarlCahill@tampabay.rr.com Congrats on your wise purchase and many thanks for choosing to shop with HSN! We appreciate YOU! Enjoy your machine and I look forward to hearing from you soon~~~
Hi Darlene I just ordered the Singer 160 Anniversary Machine. You said their is the guidelines for us to copy for the flower foot. Where do we find them. I LOVE SINGER I have the SES2000 and the Futura Quartet, love them!! But wondering is their a book or tablet to show what all of our feet will do? many do not have letters on them to tell what foot it is or what it does. Thank You Waiting for your Reply ;) Robin
Hi Darlene! I absolutely bought the 160 limited edition, I was waiting with such excitement and now am even more eager to get my hands on it along with all of the extra goodies that come with it. You are such an inspiration to us, please keep shinning. I wanted to ask if the Quartet SEQS 6000 is coming back? I noticed that it is sold out. Please let me know, I would appreciate it.
Take care,
Arturo
Hi Gogarzago–Thank you for picking up the Anniversary machine from HSN and for taking the time to let me know what you think. I do believe the quartet is coming back, but if not, consider the XL-400…It has the same software bundle and the same built-in designs along with two slide on hoops and multi-hooping. Either way, they’re a steal of a deal:) Happy embroidering!
Darlene,
Hi I took the plunge and bought the 160 Anniversary machine and you
mentioned something about having sewing patterns that I can get from
you on facebook. Would you please email me or post here what or where
I go to get this as I’m not a big fan of facebook but I do visit there. Thanks, Carol
Cacounter–you can visit my FB fanpage and see the Cheat sheet for the Flower Foot….also you can scroll down the wall and see projects with photos and descriptions. Thank you for watching our airings and purchasing your machine from HSN! Happy Sewing!
Hi Darlene, Question..What are the measurements for the Singer 160 Anniversary Machine? It stated that the arm is 14.7 inches long. The Singerco.com web site does not list the machines measurements. Do you know what the measurements are for this machine? The picture shows a large base with extra room for the material to glide over easily. I love the curved base. I’m more than curious. Is this machine going to as large as the much older models? This is a must have machine.