Way back when, when I started to sew for my daughter when she was little (57 years ago), I was taught to cut around the notches. Another old fashioned thing that I still do, is make tailor tacks for any dots on the pattern. I know it takes more time, but it's what makes me comfortable. I also pin a lot.
Hi Jen, I love your beach/wet bag. I now have an itch to make one to have ready by summer👍🏾. Also I used to cut my notches outward but now I snip into my seam allowance, I think Im too lazy😂. see you friday❤
I am self taught (Vogue book helped in late 70’s early 80’s ) then a 37 year break and started again just over 2 years ago when I retired. You Tube has helped me so much. I now snip but also mark with a marker pen or chalk as overlocking makes snips disappear. Could not go back to notches now. Had new LDL scissors for Xmas and they are wonderful. Thank you for your channel Jen- I look forward to it every week. As for sewing to help with grief - sometimes to get “lost” in my project feels like a life saver.
Hi Jen - I too have been sewing for 55 years. I missed the previous question due to life needs. And am late on this last one. Almost Friday Sews again. Anyway, I used a rotary cutter on knits because it is easier and scissors on wovens. As for notches, I too was taught to cut around the notches. But now I snip because I find it is easier to cut out my fabric without causing any shift in the fabric and pattern. Then I carefully snip the notches making sure I can see them but not too far into the seam allowance. If it is a narrow seam allowance, I will use a chalk marker (or other marking tool depending) to mark the notches. Take Care.
I learned to sew as a 4-Her a thousand years ago also. I used to always cut my notches outward until I purchased a serger. I then started to mark my woven fabric with chalk and snip my knits. I forgot to go back last week and answer the question. I am a rotary cutter and use pattern weights instead of pin I feel I have less chance of distortion. I always use pins instead of clips to hold my pieces together when sewing. I love your pool bag! Another bag maker you might like is Sara Lawson from Sew Sweetness. Thank you for all your videos. The saying we always used growing up in regards to sewing is:"There's a right way, a wrong way, and the 4-H way to sew."
Hi Jen. I find the question interesting. In home ec class I learned to cut around notches. As I got back into sewing and watching videos I had seen people snipping for notches. Like you I cannot see my notches when I snip and have also cut too far because I couldn't see. Now I use either a heat erasable pen or chalk mark to show my notches as I often mark on both sides of my fabric to help me line up things properly. Love your channel!
I also cut around my notches when I want to bother I'm a rouge sewer I often don't bother, never wash my fabric first don't sew with the proper seam allowance can't waist fabric.I have been sewing for nearly 60 years and still sew almost every day for clients, family, friends and myself. Sewing is my happy place and I care for my mum so my sewing is done in the lounge room and she loves watching me sew as she taught me when I was a child used her treadle machine then at school learnt to use electric machines. Then taught myself to use my over locker. I have thought of starting a you tube channel I would call it "The rouge sewist ". I love watching your vlogs, keep up the good work. Regards Wendy
I switched to snipping when I switched to a rotary cutter and pattern weights for my sewing. I’d always used a rotary cutter for quilting and bag making.
HI Jen. I am neither a snipper nof do I cut around the notches - I draw them on with the fabric marker I'm using on a project (either chalk pencil or frixion pen, usually). Easy to see and match up and not as labour intensive to cut out ... win/win 😄
I learned about 55 years ago to mark the notches to the outside. I have changed in the past few years to mark with clips or markers depending on the fabric or seam allowance used. ( or my mood at the time. 😄 )
Love this bag 😍Interesting about scissors/scissor. I think it just comes naturally to say 'scissors'. Also the notches question, I only made one item of clothing at school, a skirt. I think we had to cut round the notch and when I was in my later teens I cut around. But the last few years the patterns don't have them on the outside so I don't cut around. I like your explanation for continuing to cut around and will start doing this, so thank you Jen x x Debbie
from mrs: nice pattern selection. I cut around notches for the reason you mentioned. I also use the rotary cutter for knits, pinking shears for wovens.
I'm with you! When I learned to sew (a thousand years ago) the notches on the patterns were actually extended to the outside of the pattern and so I have always cut out and around the notches. Now... Funny story... I had a sewing hiatus from sewing for several years and when I returned to sewing I discovered that pattern manufacturers no longer printed the extended notches. And that completely rocked my world! But I took a deep breath and continued on my way... Cutting around the now invisible extended notch!!!!
Yes I’m from Virginia. I love the pool bag & the pillow covers. You did an awesome job on them. If you haven’t started your daughters pants yet have you heard of the top down center out method of fitting pants. Ruth Collins is the one who invented the process. There is a 8 part series by the crooked hem that does a great tutorial. You being a seasoned seamstress could probably skip or skim through quite a bit of it. Also Jenifer Stern does a few excellent videos on it. It’s really designed to help you fit your own pants by yourself more easily . So it would be even easier fitting them on some else. I cut my marks going out also for the same reasons you just mentioned. I actually got clothes in washer to start getting ready for that Florida trip coming up real soon.
Hi there I am a snipper , and to answer the other question I don't own a rotary cutter, so it's scissors all the time. What a wonderful surprise you read out my tx to you, and you did so very caring, thankyou I will never forget it, regards Diana
I use to snip outwards on the marks but lately find it more convenient to trace a line with my tracing wheel and tracing paper and make it longer than Sean allowance. This way if I’m serging the seam, I can easily see it. I use tracing method to mark almost everything anymore. I enjoy the process!
When I started to sew I didn't know what to do with notches so I just ignored them. LOL! how silly of me. Now I tend to, either chalk mark them or use Taylor's tacks. When cutting out I would forget to cut out or snip so end up in a mess. Quite a lot of the instructions do mention using Taylor's tacks so that is good enough for me. Thank you so much for the read out ❤
When mom taught me to sew a thousand years ago, she taught me to cut out the notches. Now, because of severe arthritis in my thumbs I have to use battery operated scissors for cutting things out. I then go back and mark the notches with a fabric marking pen. I love your pool bag. A place for everything.
Regarding notches: I mark them on my fabric with either my white chalk marker or an heat erasable pen(depending upon the color and texture of the fabric.
I'm just getting back to trying garment sewing after mostly doing quilts and crafts and was surprised to find no notches on the patterns. So I thought you had to mark them til I saw someone on UA-cam doing the snipping. So I tried that and so far so good but snipping made me kind of nervous. Just goes to show ya how important early education is; we learn these things when young and it sticks with us for life.
I am totally in agreement with you on the notches.. I originally learned that they were to be cut outwards.. then I noticed in my sewing journey the last 2 years that most people were snipping the fabric.. so I decided to try this.. but I have a vision impairment... and like you had an issue seeing the notch.. as well as seeing how large I was snipping it 🙄.. so I decided to return to the tried and true of "outward" notches.. I forgot to comment last week on the scissors.. I also have been using "Kai" scissors and I was fairly happy with them.. until Whitney from Tomkat mentioned how much she liked the "LDL" scissors before Christmas.. I had planned to ask for new scissors for Christmas and when I looked these up online they were quite reasonably priced...I am so happy with them.. they are very smooth to cut with.. and great for those of us with some hand mobility issues 😊
I used to cut them out when I first started sewing but I currently snip. After watching you I believe Ive changed my mind. I have on many occasions sniped to far and regretted it and had a hard time finding the snip. Thanks for the question I intend to change my habit. Im not exactly sure why I started sniping in the first place, possably because the patterns changed?
I cut my notches out because that’s how I was taught, too. When I returned to sewing after a hiatus I was surprised to see people snip. I thought I should try it but it just didn’t work for me. Now, I either cut out or I mark with a marker, depending upon the fabric.
I have not been sewing for very long and I have ADHD, so sometimes I forget to do anything with the notches whatsoever. (I know … I know …) But when I do remember I either snip or I mark them (either using chalk or a Frixion marker - depending on the color of the fabric).
When I was young I was taught to cut notches outward they are much easier to see when sewing the garment. I have since switched to sniping, but I snip an inward notch “V”. I too have difficulty finding the little single snips.
A roll of brown butcher/ freezer paper that you can buy at a kitchen supplier for about $5. Could be your new best friend.I lay out the tissue on top of the shiny side of the butchers paper. Next I iron the tissue to the shiny side of the brown paper. Last thing is to use a tracing wheel to create cutting lines. The paper is thin enough that you can add markings easily. Remove the tissue from the butcher paper,cut out on the lines made by the wheel.Great for multi sized patterns and you get a sturdy paper pattern to use. Your moms classic Bernina is the bomb. Thanks for introducing her to us….bingeing on your videos.
Sewing does help with grief. My daughter was cruelly taken from this life by a monster one year ago. My sewing helps so much because I get lost in my projects and get a break from the pain.
I'm a snipper and use a rotary cutter mostly. I totally understand how Diana Powers uses sewing to soothe her soul. I think I had the Best husband who passes away 5 years ago this month. Sewing has become my obsession of late. UA-cam channels, especially yours has inspired me to get back into garment sewing for myself. So far this year I have made 21 items and have a huge pile to get thru for spring/summer. I always enjoy your weekly chats, thank you!
Ima slippery. But I'm careful to not snip too deeply. I love your channel, I've been watching you for ages under my other youtube account. This one is my account now so I can make videos. Thanks for all of your messages too. Bless you x
Your bag and the pillows are really nice. You are so talented. When I learned to sew back in the stone age, the notches extended beyond the edge of the pattern piece, and that is the way I cut them. Have fun at the Expo.
I've also had a problem finding New Look patterns at Joann. When I asked why there were so few, I was told that there was some kind of "system" going in with Viking but she had no idea what it was. Has anyone heard of this? I love NL not only for the style but also because I don't have to buy 2 patterns to cover my size. Great pool bag. I'm going back to notches because I often loose my snips or cut only through one layer in an effort not to snip too deeply.
Hi, Jen. Your pool bag is wonderful! You have such creativity. My mom taught me in the 60’s how to cut patterns. At the time, patterns had extended notches, which was great for learning and for matching. I tried a few years ago to snip notches. That didn’t work for me, especially with knit fabrics being serged. I went back to cutting outward notches and I use tailor tacks for dot and circle marking. Yes, the old fashioned kind of marking! I enjoy basting by hand, too. The older I’ve become, the more I return to the ways of my mom and her mom. Blessings to you and to your gathering at the Sewing Expo. 💗
I don't consider myself so snippy, but rather as zippy. The process does seem to go a little faster using a rotary cutter and snipping notches. (Also, shears can lift the fabric, reducing accuracy.)
I love that pool bag Jen! Those patterns are very useful looking patterns, like they will be used over and over if they come together well. That lovely comment from a subscriber about losing her husband really touched me too, I have a dear friend that is going through the same and I talk to her nearly every day to see what’s she’s sewing. Have a great time at the expo!! X
Absolutely would never have done that pool bag without your help. We'll see on the patterns - I'm off to get more today. And Diana, what an inspiring story. We'll all need that someday. Wish you were here! xox
Love your weekly questions! Very thought provoking!!! I used to cut my notches outward (out and around) from the time I started sewing as a teen until just recently. I started doing this when my mind was wandering as I was cutting out a pattern. Forgot to cut around the notches. I then remembered watching a YT video of a sewist snipping notches, so I decided to give that a try vs. marking the fabric with a fabric marker. Sew easy!!! Been a snipper ever since. ☺✂
Hey Gal, how did you do that? Here's a post I found online: What has happened to Kwik Sew patterns? Kwik Sew patterns are no longer available to purchase online or in stores. The company has shut down due to financial difficulties. Customers who have purchased the patterns can still download them for free from the website, but they won't be updated anymore. Oct 17, 2022 (If you see other's you would like, do not hesitate to get them now)
Wow, I'd heard that they'd been absorbed into Something Delightful and would only be doing crafts and kids, but hadn't heard they'd be vanishing completely. What a loss!
Of course I cut out and around! My grandmother taught me this in the late 1960s. For all the same reasons that you were given, the best way to do this is to go outwards instead of inwards. I have always done it, and I will always do it!
Hi Jen….love that bag…I might have to make one myself I think. I’m actually a bit of bth …I was taught to cut out for notches but occasionally I do snip in. We’re down in Florida for the winter (from Canada) and I could use a swim bag for sure…..now I wrote to you some time ago about your hair….I just love it, and you kindly gave me the name of what you used……I dutifully copied it and saved it….but where that’s the question….I’ve looked everywhere and for the life of me I can’t find it. could I be a pain and ask you again…it really does suit you and I’ve been blonde for some time and fancy a change…..thanks so much…🌸
Hi Barb! My hair - I just use L'Oreal Age Perfect in a Violet Blonde, I think it's called HL-V with 30 Volume developer. And I use purple shampoo every time I wash my hair. That's about it! I've been thinking of doing the blue again so I can get that gorgeous gray, but haven't had the time or motivation to do it. And do make yourself a bag like that - you'll use it all the time. Will we see you at the Expo? Are you anywhere near me?
Yep. I learned to sew in 4-H too. We were taught to cut out the notches. Can’t wait to see what your making with that fabric it’s just beautiful. I must say your Goodwill store must have some beautiful items. Every thing you pick up is just perfect for your projects. Ours is not that great but to b fair I don’t go a lot. My stash of fabric is huge I didn’t realize how much I had until I had to move the heavy boxes from GA back to Indiana 3 weeks ago. This summer will b very busy creating. That last New Look pattern you showed I have and made it. I love it It’s very flattering. Have a great week!!!
I learned many decades ago, to cut out notches…but I worked in a sewing factory for awhile, and they used snips. I’m a shortcut girl…so I gravitate towards fastest and easiest! SNIPS FOR THE WIN!!🎉😂 BTW, your pillows and pool bag turned out really cute!! Very nice job on both!
Hi Jen, I was in 4H in the ‘60’s and was taught to cut around the notches. Cutting into the seam allowance was forbidden! Oh the memories that came flooding in when you mentioned 4H. When I was at Joann’ s last week, they were asking to round up the final cost. The extra change was going to support our local 4H organization. Of course I was happy to give a bit extra.
Hi Jen, I cut my notches out the old fashioned way. That’s how I was taught by my grandmother. I have tried the snip since I have watched many UA-camrs snip so I have tried it. I have the same problem as you, I can’t see the snips and if you have a small seam allowance it’s too easy to go into the garment. I like my scissors/shears. I’ve never had a rotary cutter. I think I’m relating to the phrase can’t teach an old(er) gal new tricks. 😂 Oh my, so much new stuff these days so I like to keep some things as they are.
Hi Jen, Love your pool bag. I snip my notches and have no trouble finding them since I know where to look for them 😊. That said, on loosely woven fabrics I would either do like you do or tack a tailors tack or mark it with chalk or any marking tool. 😊
Wonderful video Jen, I love the way you speak and your viewers and read their comments, you have so much respect and kindness. 😊 That pool bag is just beyond amazing, get ready to be asked to make some when you next visit the pool. Great new cushions for the lanai, now you make me feel guilty about not making two cushions for the sofa 😂 See ya real soon ❤❤
Remember electric scissors? Maybe you are too young. Had a pair while in high school, 1966 from Sears. They were pink. Worked good at first, then wouldn’t cut at all! I use scissors to cut out my patterns.
Hey Jane - shoot! I have 2 pairs I found recently and couldn't believe how smoothly they cut. Probably because they never got used! I think I'd have to practice a lot with them because they just zip thru. I meant to talk about those and totally forgot. Thanks for the reminder - I'll try and mention that in the future!
BTW, I’m a quilter & bag maker so I use a rotary cutter for those, but having been a sewist for over 60 years,I always use shears for garment cutting. And I never cut notches, always snip to mark.
Your pool bag is amazing! So many pockets!! Loved the comments. I’m a snipper. I don’t think I’ve ever, ever cut around notches. I am super careful though not to cut too close to the seam line. On fabric that unravels A LOT, I serge the edges before sewing them together so mark the notches in the seam allowance with a marker of some kind. I laughed when you said “we’re all a bunch of intraverts with a camera on our phone” because that is definitely me!! As much as I’m excited about next week, I’m also terrified! LOL 💞
Having originally been taught to cut around the notches in Home Ec in 9th grade, it was a shock when I recently learned you could snip into the seam allowance instead. I felt rather scandalous trying it, only to realize that I couldn't see the snips nearly as easily. So, I'll stick with my old 60's method.
I don’t cut around the notches anymore. And I don’t snip either! I draw the notches inside the seam allowance with a marker or pen. Yes--ink pens and art markers!
I'm an outward notch person. That's the way I was taught a million years ago in Home Ec. Back when they had such a thing. Also, like you, I've tried snipping and I too can't see it!
Hi Jen! That's a great "beach" bag with lots of room in it. I am a cut around the notch type of gal. I was taught to do it that way many years ago. I'm open to learning new techniques on a lot of things but some old habits do die hard. See you next Friday!!
I use scissors but also rotary cutter for paper pattern and quilting. It really great for tissue cutting! I cut my notches out. I can't see snips either. Love your videos!♥️
Hi Jen, on the scissors versus rotary cutter topic, I use both. But I have a question, when I’m using my rotary cutter I am able to use either hand (I’m primarily left handed) but when using regular scissors I usually use right handed scissors, although I can use left handed scissors, is everyone like me regarding rotary cutters? Also, I usually cut the notches outward like you do.
Way back when, when I started to sew for my daughter when she was little (57 years ago), I was taught to cut around the notches. Another old fashioned thing that I still do, is make tailor tacks for any dots on the pattern. I know it takes more time, but it's what makes me comfortable. I also pin a lot.
Hi, I cut them out. Learned to sew in the 70's. Especially on sleeves to figure out front and back.
Happy sewing 🧵🪡
Hi Jen, I love your beach/wet bag. I now have an itch to make one to have ready by summer👍🏾. Also I used to cut my notches outward but now I snip into my seam allowance, I think Im too lazy😂. see you friday❤
I used to be a snipper, but am now reformed! I cut around the notches which is much safer and easier to see. Your pool bag is amazing!
I cut out and around. That bag is so cute, and the English lesson was very insightful.
I am self taught (Vogue book helped in late 70’s early 80’s ) then a 37 year break and started again just over 2 years ago when I retired. You Tube has helped me so much. I now snip but also mark with a marker pen or chalk as overlocking makes snips disappear. Could not go back to notches now. Had new LDL scissors for Xmas and they are wonderful. Thank you for your channel Jen- I look forward to it every week. As for sewing to help with grief - sometimes to get “lost” in my project feels like a life saver.
Hi Jen - I too have been sewing for 55 years. I missed the previous question due to life needs. And am late on this last one. Almost Friday Sews again. Anyway, I used a rotary cutter on knits because it is easier and scissors on wovens. As for notches, I too was taught to cut around the notches. But now I snip because I find it is easier to cut out my fabric without causing any shift in the fabric and pattern. Then I carefully snip the notches making sure I can see them but not too far into the seam allowance. If it is a narrow seam allowance, I will use a chalk marker (or other marking tool depending) to mark the notches. Take Care.
Love your beach bag and always enjoy your great ideas on your channel. I am a snipper, but used to be a notcher.
That pool bag is the BOMB!!! You should be a public speaker!!! You just have a countenance about you! I could listen to tou talk all day! Love you ❤❤❤
Hi Jen, well, I want each of those patterns. 😂. Love the pool bag!!
Hugs!!❤😊
I learned to sew as a 4-Her a thousand years ago also. I used to always cut my notches outward until I purchased a serger. I then started to mark my woven fabric with chalk and snip my knits. I forgot to go back last week and answer the question. I am a rotary cutter and use pattern weights instead of pin I feel I have less chance of distortion. I always use pins instead of clips to hold my pieces together when sewing. I love your pool bag! Another bag maker you might like is Sara Lawson from Sew Sweetness. Thank you for all your videos.
The saying we always used growing up in regards to sewing is:"There's a right way, a wrong way, and the 4-H way to sew."
Hello Jen,
Your bag turned out nice!
That co mment made mecry i lost my son to lung cancer and sewing has helped me also love your video s and humor.
Thanks so much for the scissor/scissors definitions. Now if I can just remember!!! I snip.
Hi Jen. I find the question interesting. In home ec class I learned to cut around notches. As I got back into sewing and watching videos I had seen people snipping for notches. Like you I cannot see my notches when I snip and have also cut too far because I couldn't see. Now I use either a heat erasable pen or chalk mark to show my notches as I often mark on both sides of my fabric to help me line up things properly. Love your channel!
I also cut around my notches when I want to bother I'm a rouge sewer I often don't bother, never wash my fabric first don't sew with the proper seam allowance can't waist fabric.I have been sewing for nearly 60 years and still sew almost every day for clients, family, friends and myself. Sewing is my happy place and I care for my mum so my sewing is done in the lounge room and she loves watching me sew as she taught me when I was a child used her treadle machine then at school learnt to use electric machines. Then taught myself to use my over locker. I have thought of starting a you tube channel I would call it "The rouge sewist ". I love watching your vlogs, keep up the good work. Regards Wendy
I switched to snipping when I switched to a rotary cutter and pattern weights for my sewing. I’d always used a rotary cutter for quilting and bag making.
HI Jen. I am neither a snipper nof do I cut around the notches - I draw them on with the fabric marker I'm using on a project (either chalk pencil or frixion pen, usually). Easy to see and match up and not as labour intensive to cut out ... win/win 😄
I learned about 55 years ago to mark the notches to the outside. I have changed in the past few years to mark with clips or markers depending on the fabric or seam allowance used. ( or my mood at the time. 😄 )
I cut around notches. I use scissors and a rotary cutter, but scissors mostly. Love your sweatshirt.
Love this bag 😍Interesting about scissors/scissor. I think it just comes naturally to say 'scissors'. Also the notches question, I only made one item of clothing at school, a skirt. I think we had to cut round the notch and when I was in my later teens I cut around. But the last few years the patterns don't have them on the outside so I don't cut around. I like your explanation for continuing to cut around and will start doing this, so thank you Jen x x Debbie
from mrs: nice pattern selection. I cut around notches for the reason you mentioned. I also use the rotary cutter for knits, pinking shears for wovens.
I cut around the notches. I can never see those tiny snips! Great pool bag! Just in time for the season.
I am with you I like the notches outside I can see them and follow perfectly
Hi Jenn I learned to sew in Home Economics class in 7th grade and they taught us to cut out the notches. And I've done it that way ever since.
I'm with you! When I learned to sew (a thousand years ago) the notches on the patterns were actually extended to the outside of the pattern and so I have always cut out and around the notches. Now... Funny story... I had a sewing hiatus from sewing for several years and when I returned to sewing I discovered that pattern manufacturers no longer printed the extended notches. And that completely rocked my world! But I took a deep breath and continued on my way... Cutting around the now invisible extended notch!!!!
You are the best! I remember doing that same thing.
Yes I’m from Virginia. I love the pool bag & the pillow covers. You did an awesome job on them. If you haven’t started your daughters pants yet have you heard of the top down center out method of fitting pants. Ruth Collins is the one who invented the process. There is a 8 part series by the crooked hem that does a great tutorial. You being a seasoned seamstress could probably skip or skim through quite a bit of it. Also Jenifer Stern does a few excellent videos on it. It’s really designed to help you fit your own pants by yourself more easily . So it would be even easier fitting them on some else. I cut my marks going out also for the same reasons you just mentioned. I actually got clothes in washer to start getting ready for that Florida trip coming up real soon.
Hi there I am a snipper , and to answer the other question I don't own a rotary cutter, so it's scissors all the time. What a wonderful surprise you read out my tx to you, and you did so very caring, thankyou I will never forget it, regards Diana
❤️😘
I use to snip outwards on the marks but lately find it more convenient to trace a line with my tracing wheel and tracing paper and make it longer than Sean allowance. This way if I’m serging the seam, I can easily see it. I use tracing method to mark almost everything anymore. I enjoy the process!
I too cut notches out, much easier to see when you are sewing together 😊
Hi Jen, great Fridaysews, you had me laughing at times. I love your pool bag!!!! I'm an inverter too. lol
Congratulations on completing your new pool bag!
🎉
When I started to sew I didn't know what to do with notches so I just ignored them. LOL! how silly of me. Now I tend to, either chalk mark them or use Taylor's tacks. When cutting out I would forget to cut out or snip so end up in a mess. Quite a lot of the instructions do mention using Taylor's tacks so that is good enough for me.
Thank you so much for the read out ❤
When mom taught me to sew a thousand years ago, she taught me to cut out the notches. Now, because of severe arthritis in my thumbs I have to use battery operated scissors for cutting things out. I then go back and mark the notches with a fabric marking pen. I love your pool bag. A place for everything.
Regarding notches: I mark them on my fabric with either my white chalk marker or an heat erasable pen(depending upon the color and texture of the fabric.
I'm just getting back to trying garment sewing after mostly doing quilts and crafts and was surprised to find no notches on the patterns. So I thought you had to mark them til I saw someone on UA-cam doing the snipping. So I tried that and so far so good but snipping made me kind of nervous. Just goes to show ya how important early education is; we learn these things when young and it sticks with us for life.
I am totally in agreement with you on the notches.. I originally learned that they were to be cut outwards.. then I noticed in my sewing journey the last 2 years that most people were snipping the fabric.. so I decided to try this.. but I have a vision impairment... and like you had an issue seeing the notch.. as well as seeing how large I was snipping it 🙄.. so I decided to return to the tried and true of "outward" notches.. I forgot to comment last week on the scissors.. I also have been using "Kai" scissors and I was fairly happy with them.. until Whitney from Tomkat mentioned how much she liked the "LDL" scissors before Christmas.. I had planned to ask for new scissors for Christmas and when I looked these up online they were quite reasonably priced...I am so happy with them.. they are very smooth to cut with.. and great for those of us with some hand mobility issues 😊
I think I'm going to have to try a pair of those too. Because I only have a bazillion scissors - I definitely need one more! LOL!
I cut out and around my notches. Like you, I can’t see snips. Plus, if anything needs to be let out you have the full seam allowance to play with
I use scissors. I plan to buy a rotary cutter this year. I cut my notches out.
When I was taught to sew in senior school (in the 60’s)we had to cut around the notches. Nowadays I’m a snipper just because it’s quicker 😀
I learned to cut out and around the notches. I too have trouble seeing the snips :)
I used to cut them out when I first started sewing but I currently snip. After watching you I believe Ive changed my mind. I have on many occasions sniped to far and regretted it and had a hard time finding the snip. Thanks for the question I intend to change my habit. Im not exactly sure why I started sniping in the first place, possably because the patterns changed?
I cut my notches out because that’s how I was taught, too. When I returned to sewing after a hiatus I was surprised to see people snip. I thought I should try it but it just didn’t work for me. Now, I either cut out or I mark with a marker, depending upon the fabric.
Fantastic Pool Bag! My mother cut around her notches and I do as well - sometimes. Sometimes I am naughty and snip.
I have not been sewing for very long and I have ADHD, so sometimes I forget to do anything with the notches whatsoever. (I know … I know …) But when I do remember I either snip or I mark them (either using chalk or a Frixion marker - depending on the color of the fabric).
When I was young I was taught to cut notches outward they are much easier to see when sewing the garment. I have since switched to sniping, but I snip an inward notch “V”. I too have difficulty finding the little single snips.
I've used older, thrifted patterns that sometimes have the notch cut to the inside. Much easier to see!
A roll of brown butcher/ freezer paper that you can buy at a kitchen supplier for about $5. Could be your new best friend.I lay out the tissue on top of the shiny side of the butchers paper. Next I iron the tissue to the shiny side of the brown paper. Last thing is to use a tracing wheel to create cutting lines. The paper is thin enough that you can add markings easily. Remove the tissue from the butcher paper,cut out on the lines made by the wheel.Great for multi sized patterns and you get a sturdy paper pattern to use. Your moms classic Bernina is the bomb. Thanks for introducing her to us….bingeing on your videos.
I like how you read some comments❤ Cargo pants caught my eye💕
I too cut out notches . I was told by a home ec teacher to do that in case you ever had to let out a seam.
I was taught many years ago to cut around the notches.
Love you4 bag! Don’t take your handles off. Just stitch the webbing on top of your existing handles!
Great idea!! Seriously!
Sewing does help with grief. My daughter was cruelly taken from this life by a monster one year ago. My sewing helps so much because I get lost in my projects and get a break from the pain.
I just can’t imagine what you are going through.
I'm a snipper and use a rotary cutter mostly. I totally understand how Diana Powers uses sewing to soothe her soul. I think I had the Best husband who passes away 5 years ago this month. Sewing has become my obsession of late. UA-cam channels, especially yours has inspired me to get back into garment sewing for myself. So far this year I have made 21 items and have a huge pile to get thru for spring/summer. I always enjoy your weekly chats, thank you!
Ima slippery. But I'm careful to not snip too deeply. I love your channel, I've been watching you for ages under my other youtube account. This one is my account now so I can make videos. Thanks for all of your messages too. Bless you x
Whoops autocorrect. I was trying to type I'm a snipper .
I don’t cut my notches inward or outward. I use a fine tip marker and put a little dot on the edge of the fabric inside the seam allowance!
That's a great idea!
Your bag and the pillows are really nice. You are so talented. When I learned to sew back in the stone age, the notches extended beyond the edge of the pattern piece, and that is the way I cut them. Have fun at the Expo.
Your pool bag is amazing! Very pretty fabric.
I've also had a problem finding New Look patterns at Joann. When I asked why there were so few, I was told that there was some kind of "system" going in with Viking but she had no idea what it was. Has anyone heard of this? I love NL not only for the style but also because I don't have to buy 2 patterns to cover my size. Great pool bag. I'm going back to notches because I often loose my snips or cut only through one layer in an effort not to snip too deeply.
Hi, Jen. Your pool bag is wonderful! You have such creativity.
My mom taught me in the 60’s how to cut patterns. At the time, patterns had extended notches, which was great for learning and for matching. I tried a few years ago to snip notches. That didn’t work for me, especially with knit fabrics being serged. I went back to cutting outward notches and I use tailor tacks for dot and circle marking. Yes, the old fashioned kind of marking! I enjoy basting by hand, too. The older I’ve become, the more I return to the ways of my mom and her mom.
Blessings to you and to your gathering at the Sewing Expo. 💗
Hi Jen! I am not a snipper! I was taught, like you, to cut around the notches.
I don't consider myself so snippy, but rather as zippy. The process does seem to go a little faster using a rotary cutter and snipping notches. (Also, shears can lift the fabric, reducing accuracy.)
I love that pool bag Jen! Those patterns are very useful looking patterns, like they will be used over and over if they come together well. That lovely comment from a subscriber about losing her husband really touched me too, I have a dear friend that is going through the same and I talk to her nearly every day to see what’s she’s sewing. Have a great time at the expo!! X
Absolutely would never have done that pool bag without your help. We'll see on the patterns - I'm off to get more today. And Diana, what an inspiring story. We'll all need that someday. Wish you were here! xox
I became a snipper a couple years ago after seeing Whitney of Tom Kat Stitchery do snipping. It was an aha moment for me.
Beautiful bag, beautiful pillows, beautiful scripture passage, beautiful you! . Thanks Jen🥰❤
Thank you! 🤗
Love your weekly questions! Very thought provoking!!! I used to cut my notches outward (out and around) from the time I started sewing as a teen until just recently. I started doing this when my mind was wandering as I was cutting out a pattern. Forgot to cut around the notches. I then remembered watching a YT video of a sewist snipping notches, so I decided to give that a try vs. marking the fabric with a fabric marker. Sew easy!!! Been a snipper ever since. ☺✂
I just had to come here and say I'm a snipper. LOL but as I get older I do have a harder time seeing my snips. I may have to start your method.
Love your pool bag Jen! I can’t wait for next week! I’ll be the other introvert with my phone camera! Lol
😂🤓🤳 and boy will those cameras get a workout! Looking forward to seeing you too!
Hey Gal, how did you do that? Here's a post I found online: What has happened to Kwik Sew patterns?
Kwik Sew patterns are no longer available to purchase online or in stores. The company has shut down due to financial difficulties. Customers who have purchased the patterns can still download them for free from the website, but they won't be updated anymore. Oct 17, 2022 (If you see other's you would like, do not hesitate to get them now)
Wow, I'd heard that they'd been absorbed into Something Delightful and would only be doing crafts and kids, but hadn't heard they'd be vanishing completely. What a loss!
Of course I cut out and around! My grandmother taught me this in the late 1960s. For all the same reasons that you were given, the best way to do this is to go outwards instead of inwards. I have always done it, and I will always do it!
Hi Jen….love that bag…I might have to make one myself I think. I’m actually a bit of bth …I was taught to cut out for notches but occasionally I do snip in.
We’re down in Florida for the winter (from Canada) and I could use a swim bag for sure…..now I wrote to you some time ago about your hair….I just love it, and you kindly gave me the name of what you used……I dutifully copied it and saved it….but where that’s the question….I’ve looked everywhere and for the life of me I can’t find it. could I be a pain and ask you again…it really does suit you and I’ve been blonde for some time and fancy a change…..thanks so much…🌸
Hi Barb! My hair - I just use L'Oreal Age Perfect in a Violet Blonde, I think it's called HL-V with 30 Volume developer. And I use purple shampoo every time I wash my hair. That's about it! I've been thinking of doing the blue again so I can get that gorgeous gray, but haven't had the time or motivation to do it. And do make yourself a bag like that - you'll use it all the time. Will we see you at the Expo? Are you anywhere near me?
I am a snipper if it is a decent size seam allowance.
I was a cut around the notch until a few months ago.
Out and around for me. I am old school.
I cut out and around just like you Jen x we are about the same era I think x 🎉👗🧵
Yep. I learned to sew in 4-H too. We were taught to cut out the notches. Can’t wait to see what your making with that fabric it’s just beautiful. I must say your Goodwill store must have some beautiful items. Every thing you pick up is just perfect for your projects. Ours is not that great but to b fair I don’t go a lot. My stash of fabric is huge I didn’t realize how much I had until I had to move the heavy boxes from GA back to Indiana 3 weeks ago. This summer will b very busy creating. That last New Look pattern you showed I have and made it. I love it It’s very flattering. Have a great week!!!
I learned many decades ago, to cut out notches…but I worked in a sewing factory for awhile, and they used snips. I’m a shortcut girl…so I gravitate towards fastest and easiest!
SNIPS FOR THE WIN!!🎉😂
BTW, your pillows and pool bag turned out really cute!! Very nice job on both!
Thank you Jen, for explaining scissor/scissors! I never knew that.👍 I cut around my notches too.
Hi Jen, I was in 4H in the ‘60’s and was taught to cut around the notches. Cutting into the seam allowance was forbidden! Oh the memories that came flooding in when you mentioned 4H. When I was at Joann’ s last week, they were asking to round up the final cost. The extra change was going to support our local 4H organization. Of course I was happy to give a bit extra.
Hi Jen, I cut my notches out the old fashioned way. That’s how I was taught by my grandmother. I have tried the snip since I have watched many UA-camrs snip so I have tried it. I have the same problem as you, I can’t see the snips and if you have a small seam allowance it’s too easy to go into the garment. I like my scissors/shears. I’ve never had a rotary cutter. I think I’m relating to the phrase can’t teach an old(er) gal new tricks. 😂 Oh my, so much new stuff these days so I like to keep some things as they are.
Hi Jen,
Love your pool bag.
I snip my notches and have no trouble finding them since I know where to look for them 😊.
That said, on loosely woven fabrics I would either do like you do or tack a tailors tack or mark it with chalk or any marking tool. 😊
Wonderful video Jen, I love the way you speak and your viewers and read their comments, you have so much respect and kindness. 😊
That pool bag is just beyond amazing, get ready to be asked to make some when you next visit the pool. Great new cushions for the lanai, now you make me feel guilty about not making two cushions for the sofa 😂 See ya real soon ❤❤
My saying is "Sewing soothes the soul"
Can't wait for Lakeland!
Cheryl🇨🇦
It was wonderful to see you! When are you headed back?
@@TodayinJensSewingRoom We go back the middle of April. Sorry to leave but anxious to meet that new little great grandson.
Remember electric scissors? Maybe you are too young. Had a pair while in high school, 1966 from Sears. They were pink. Worked good at first, then wouldn’t cut at all! I use scissors to cut out my patterns.
Hey Jane - shoot! I have 2 pairs I found recently and couldn't believe how smoothly they cut. Probably because they never got used! I think I'd have to practice a lot with them because they just zip thru. I meant to talk about those and totally forgot. Thanks for the reminder - I'll try and mention that in the future!
Your swim tote turned out great. Love all the pockets.
I'm a cutter around notch sewist.
Love the beach bag. I snip notches. Used to cut around but now snip..so much easier
BTW, I’m a quilter & bag maker so I use a rotary cutter for those, but having been a sewist for over 60 years,I always use shears for garment cutting.
And I never cut notches, always snip to mark.
Your pool bag is amazing! So many pockets!! Loved the comments. I’m a snipper. I don’t think I’ve ever, ever cut around notches. I am super careful though not to cut too close to the seam line. On fabric that unravels A LOT, I serge the edges before sewing them together so mark the notches in the seam allowance with a marker of some kind. I laughed when you said “we’re all a bunch of intraverts with a camera on our phone” because that is definitely me!! As much as I’m excited about next week, I’m also terrified! LOL 💞
Having originally been taught to cut around the notches in Home Ec in 9th grade, it was a shock when I recently learned you could snip into the seam allowance instead. I felt rather scandalous trying it, only to realize that I couldn't see the snips nearly as easily. So, I'll stick with my old 60's method.
I am definitely not snippy nor do I snip. I am a cut around gal for both the same reasons you stated. Pool bag and pillows turned out great.
I'm a snipper, unless the seam allowance is small than I cut out. 😊
I don’t cut around the notches anymore. And I don’t snip either! I draw the notches inside the seam allowance with a marker or pen. Yes--ink pens and art markers!
I'm an outward notch person. That's the way I was taught a million years ago in Home Ec. Back when they had such a thing. Also, like you, I've tried snipping and I too can't see it!
Hi Jen! That's a great "beach" bag with lots of room in it. I am a cut around the notch type of gal. I was taught to do it that way many years ago. I'm open to learning new techniques on a lot of things but some old habits do die hard. See you next Friday!!
I’m with you Jen, I cut around my notches . 🇦🇺🧵🪡
Beautiful job on your pool bag. I am a snipper but want to try cutting my notching outward. It's easier to see, and I have cut past my seam allowance.
I cut the notches out and around, because if you need to let it out a little the out notch gives you room to do that!
You’ve thought of everything with your new beach bag, that’s fabulous. 🌹❤️
Great pool bag! Im a snipper even tho i learned to cut to cut out the notches. The pillows are beautiful. 😍
I use scissors but also rotary cutter for paper pattern and quilting. It really great for tissue cutting! I cut my notches out. I can't see snips either. Love your videos!♥️
Hi Jen, on the scissors versus rotary cutter topic, I use both. But I have a question, when I’m using my rotary cutter I am able to use either hand (I’m primarily left handed) but when using regular scissors I usually use right handed scissors, although I can use left handed scissors, is everyone like me regarding rotary cutters?
Also, I usually cut the notches outward like you do.