Here are the links if you found something you liked! 1. Water soluble thread -amzn.to/3AHePQi 2. Seam allowance discs - amzn.to/3Ex4szt 3. Diagonal seam tape - amzn.to/3OyHHjb 4. Roll and press - amzn.to/3ExYE91 5. Thread "clips" - amzn.to/3XqcS4p 6. Bulky Seam Jumper - amzn.to/3GDdRbD 5. Eloflex Stretchable thread - amzn.to/3VEAhxx
@@ThoughtfulCreativity *Chuckle!* I have quilters in my family (not my jam, buy wow do they make beautiful things! There is a quilt in every bedroom) I also used to watch Nancy Ziemann, sometimes it was the only thing on tv early Saturday mornings! Also, you so hold the keys to pattern drafting! Many thanks for that.
Nancy (nee’ Luedtke) Zieman, died 11/14/2017. May she rip. She was a sewing genius, and an inspiration to millions. I can not count the many things I learned from her. Her inventions are still saving time, & making our sewing lives easier. MSQC bought her company and her products are still available. Happy sewing 🧵!
I keep the water soluble thread in a large pill bottle, labeled of course, with the thread on a bobbin. I only use the thread in a bobbin because once it is in water the top thread will pull away in one piece. And, it's simple to know what's in the bobbin since the pill bottle is still out and there isn't a bobbin in there, so it's a great reminder.
I have many kinds of thread but have never had the water soluble one - right now I don’t know what I would use it for as I’m a quilter not a dressmaker!
Nancy Zieman was AMAZING! I set my alarm early to get up an watch her on Sat. AM, and recorded her on VCR. Then everything changed to disc! RIP Ms. Nancy!
I did too! It is so nice that she gives credit where credit is due! So many people i youtube or instagram copy ideas or recipies as if they had invented the wheel! Nancy really did a lot for sewing and quilting I wouldn't mind watching her programs again!
You might want to try seam allowance magnets which you can attach to your scissors. I have four 5 mm magnets, which allow me to cut perfect 5, 10, 15 and 20 mm seams. I know different size magnets exist, so you can pick whatever suits your needs. And the best thing is: No need to add seam allowance to your patterns at all.
As I sit here taking apart a test muslin to use the fabric again, I thought of your video and how the water soluble thread would make this easier. Thanks for sharing!
I inherited my mother's sewing machine when she passed away almost 17 years ago, and inside the storage box was this thing that I had no idea what it was. I've held on to it all this time because my mother was a very practical person and I believed it might be important. Now, thanks to you, I know what it is and I couldn't be happier! It's a "Bulky Seam Jumper"!!! Can't wait to try it! THANK YOU! 😊🙃😊
How nice to have the gift of your mom's machine and hold onto the sewing tool you didn't know about. This is a very handy tool you'll find useful. At first, I was clumsy with mine but once I got the hang of it I found it to be most useful, especially installing needles. It keeps them from falling and adds leverage because my hand gets in the way.
I had no idea they had seam jumpers that long ago. Now I'm feeling very old.😉 I had my mother's machine for 40 years, & couldn't figure out what this one foot was. Had 2 parts, & was the craziest sewing accessory I'd ever seen. Couldn't find it online to save my life. No one I asked had a clue. It was an elastic foot.🤦♀
Bulky Seam Jumper was known as a Jean-a-ma-jig back in my day, when making your own 'designer' jeans was all the rage. Have had mine for at least 30 years - LOVE it.
Also good for just sewing thicker layers if fabrics and batting. Love the diagonal seam tape but I still have a slight problem with getting it straight - just my wonky eyes😁
With the seam tape, if you line the corners of the block on the ¼ line, you can sew 2 lines of stitching on that block, cut apart and you get 2 half square triangles blocks!
@@ooohlaa13 hi! You saw how she lined up the corner with the red line in the center to see corner to corner. You could then trim off the excess and iron it open (seam to the darker side usually, not flat). This is a half square triangle.Or you could make your square a bit larger, line up your point with the black line and sew 1/4" to each side of the center line. You would then cut down the middle, corner to corner and have two half square triangles without any waste. It's so much easier to show you, but I hope this helps. If you search on "half square triangle", you will probably find some good videos to show you. Somewhere there are charts that tell you what size square to start with so you end up with the size block you need. For example, to get two 4" blocks, you might start with two 4 3/8" squares. I'm pulling numbers out of my bum, but hopefully you get the concept. Half square triangles are a common block used in creating quilt patterns, like a pinwheel or a number of star patterns.
It’s called making two half squares at a time. Instead of sewing on the line like she did, you sew 1/4 inch from the line on both sides of that center line, which is on the diagonal. After you sew a quarter inch away from the center line on both sides, you can cut away the two parts by cutting down that center line. Now you have two triangles sewn together to make little squares. I hope that helps. Quilting is magical!
The double sided sticky Tape Water‑Soluble , I find brilliant for holding "difficult" fabrics together before sewing, eg knits that would stretch out of shape or velvet that slides around.
The “seam jumper” tool came w/my sewing machine. I thought it was ONLY for changing the needle. I had no idea it had other uses. Thank you for teaching me something new today!
Some sewing machines come with it, but mine never did so I had no idea this existed:) nifty little tool, right? I am glad it gave you some extra info on it :)
The thread stops for thread spools are a life saver. The thread does not unroll until it is off. It keeps my thread from being tangled. There are pins you can buy that holds the matching bobbins on top of your spool. There are some that look like hair pins or their is a more expensive ones that are flatter. But the hair pin ones have a sort of handle on top that you can grab. They are great.
Seam allowance used by me for 40 years, I just eyeball and estimate when I cut have never drawn on anything & newer had a problem. My mother in law was a seamstress & taught me all she knew the I worked for father in law he upholstered antiques. Thank you for testing all these things for us. I liked the bulky seam inserter it is a good invention. Also the flexible thread
Thanks for video. The diagonal seam tape is a real shortcut when piecing squares made from two triangles. You STITCH along the two BLUE lines and then CUT along the center RED line. Here is the process step-by-step: To Use Diagonal seam tape - used by quilters to piece squares made from two triangles 1. First for blocks that will be made of two triangles (one from fabric A and one from fabric B), count number N of finished blocks needed. 2. Cut N/2 squares out of fabric A and cut N/2 squares out of fabric B. 3. Pin together two squares (one of fabric A and one of fabric B with right sides facing) - repeat for all squares. 4. Align red center line of tape with diagonal corners of a pinned square. Can place all the pinned squares on a line of tape (so all squares connected by tape. 5. Then sew down the marked blue seam lines on each side of tape. Sew the right seam line down the whole string of squares. Then turn and sew back down the other blue seam line down the whole string of squares. 6. THEN, cut the squares along the red center line of tape (this splits the N/2 pinned two layer squares into the N seamed squares, each made up of a triangle from fabric A seamed along the diagonal to a triangle from fabric B. 7. Press seams and you have the new pieced squares ready to attach to other parts of your quilt.
The seam roller is more useful when you're doing foundation paper piecing for quilts. It's meant to just give a quick press to get your seams flat before you add your next piece on, so you don't have to keep going back & forth to your iron when making quilt blocks this way. 🙂
I've used this and it really isn't very good. If you really want a seam roller, go to your wallpaper store and buy their wallpaper roller. It's cheaper, the roller is wider and heaver and works much better.
Interesting video. An alternative to the Eloflex thread is Wooly (yes, only one L) Nylon. It's sort of fuzzy/fluffy so best to use it on the bobbin only, with regular thread on top. It comes in quite large spools so is economical. I've been using this on stretch fabric for years now and works a treat.
To quickly press seams that are near to the edge of the garment, I prefer to use my old hair flat-iron. As long as you can control the temperature, it can be used on polyester fabrics and delicates as well as paper. For keeping threads in check, cut a slot in the top of the reel. Then slide the end of the thread into that slot. This is easy, cheap and makes it easy to find the end of the thread when you need it next.
I used to do that with the thread spools but I can't stand that then the cut edge catches on everything and the thread keeps constantly catching on it... :(
It's also good for when you are working on collars, cuffs, darts, etc. or getting the fold out of trims or linings. Just a little touch makes such a difference in final outcome and positioning.
As a minimalist person, I found you can use an ink brayer, pastry roller or any roller tool instead of buying one more thing to lose LOL! love the thread poppers, I have a big plastic box of threads that are separated into plastic bags by color, with little unravelling but I love those poppers for maybe the current spools that roll onto the floor when I am working on several colors. Love love the double pen trick, how good is that, and definitely must have soluble thread although I guess the fabric needs to be washable? Today i was thinking I need some elastic thread for a few things I knitted that need to have a tighter band and wondered if elastic thread available. Experiment on that one.I just found you and you are delightful and subscribed!
Great video! A few suggestions and thoughts... *When using (black &) white fabric, please choose a contrasting color thread (yellow-orange maybe?) to make the stiches easier for us to see. *I use adult size ponytail holders on thread spools to keep them intact. They're soft and slip on and off easily, but stay put. For smaller diameter thread spools (think embroidery thread) just loop the ponytail holder over twice or get little girls' holders, which work well on bobbins, too. *LOVED the suggestion of banding two writing tools together to add a seam allowance! *You showed several new products - or ways to use products - I'd never seen before. Thank you!
Oh, yeah! Love Nancy Zieman! I haven't sewn in a while, and had forgotten all about her. I probably learned 75% of what I know about sewing from her. I like the stretchable thread. This is my first time seeing you. Thanks for a great video. I'll try to come back after my Christmas rush slows down.
Fun to watch! Keep that dissolvable thread in a sealed plastic bag and it will last longer. I got the "Humper Jumpers" with my sewing machine after buying one. And that tape can be used to stitch on both sides of that center line - making two half-square triangles instead of just one with waste on the other side. I will have to look for that stretch thread! That could come in handy!
When you use your fingertips/nails to fingerpress seams there is a likelihood of stretching the seam, especially if it is in the bias. Using a seam roller before pressing may help with keeping the sewing the correct length.
I use a vintage sewing machine that is a one trick pony. Straight stitch only. I need to totally get that streach thread whenever I do work with knits for now on! The dissovable stitches I can not only see use for basting, but for making mockups with, that way you can take it apart again by simply dipping the seams in hot water. Of course you'd need to let that dry before transferring the modifications to your pattern.
I wanted to add that many of the small spools of thread have a tiny little groove at each end where you can wrap your thread to keep it from unraveling. Some have a little slit that you pop the yarn into. The bigger spools are the ones I have an issue with... especially bonded thread as it's so slippery and silky. Thanks for the video!!!
Aurafil thread has a ring at the end of the spool that actually slides off to put on the other end or slides closer to spool to secure thread. Helpful for quilters!
Wow! This is the first time I've watched your channel and I found your review of these products very useful. I actually have the Bulky Seam Jumper but didn't know how it worked. Thank you for this useful information. I don't sew a lot, but always thought I could be better at what I do sew - so I'll be checking out other videos on your channel.
Great video. I use the seam Roller more for fabrics that really can't be ironed, i.e. vinyls and faux leathers. Also, for the stretchy thread, I prefer the new Guterman Maraflex thread. It's amazing.
A drawing compass works really well for seam allowance too. You can lock it into the measurement you want and it won't slide around like rubber bands on pens.
I grew up going to Nancy Zieman's store. Even as a kid it was a wonderland filled with amazing things. It's such a shame that store is no longer around. These tools look incredible! I'm just starting sewing, with a desire to make clothes and household goods. I think these will really help. Where was that stretchy thread when I tried learning to machine sew on knit fabric 😂
I got a set of the thread holder, but also the one that goes on the bobbin, and the clothespin looking thing that holds the bobbin on top of the thread. Love them all. I'll give it 5 stars for you. After years of trying to keep the thread and bobbin together, they are a sewing room must have!
Water soluble thread!!! OMG! How did I not know that? I immediately bought a spool. I can't wait. I just discovered the Eloflex thread. It is a game changer for bra and panty making. Yes, I found this video very informative and useful. Thanks
The seam roller is useful for pre-pressing fiddly seams where you need to keep your fingers close by holding things. This avoids burning your fingers with the iron.
I have little bobbin holders on top of my thread spools, they keep the bobbin in place and hold down the end of the thread. They're so great. They're translucent colorless plastic. I tried a few styles before i found these
Yes! The Ecoflex thread is totally the stuff I've been looking for, without knowing exactly what it was I was looking, or even knew I was looking for it, LoL! I'm a decent seamstress, but knits have been my nightmare since day one! Doesn't matter how many tutorials I've watched and books I've read about zigzag stitches and stretchy fabrics/elastic, I can never get the 'right' zigzag stitch for my project.... and I don't have to tell you how much of a pain it is to pull stitches out of an elastic band! Arrrgghhh!!! That stretchy thread looks amazing! Ordering some now! Yay!
The thread tamer gadget that your gorgeous daughter enjoys might be for bobbins. Many spools now pop open at the ends or have the capacity to wind and secure the thread. These bobbin tamers - I have something similar - are worth their weight 1000 time in gold! My drawer of bobbins used to be a jumbled mess of threads, but not any more.
Washaway thread, and washaway stabiliser etc., is also used in machine embroidery. Been out for a lot of years. Keep away from moisture. The seam tape, I use painters masking tape, a ruler and my pens instead, it's a lot cheaper. You can draw a wider line on wider masking tape, or a series of them, to match dress seam allowance widths. Or put the one you have with it's left line on needle spot? A perspex quilting ruler can help get the tape on and squared up. To make 2 HSTs, sew another line at 1/2" away from the centre line, then cut down the centre, makes 2 different sizes. But not wasting the smaller pieces, bonus. To get 2 HSTs, the same size add 1/2" inch either way, before cutting squares. Use tape lines to sew 1/4" away from centre, on both sides, then cut down the centre. Press flat and trim to size if needed. Ignore this if you already know. Do you cut out and make multiples at once? A rotary cutter 45mm is a good size, with a large for longer pattern pieces, double-sided, self-healing mat and a perspex ruler, to keep the blade on it's path, and sharp snips for corners, makes cutting out layered fabric for 2 of the same pattern garments a lot easier. Right sides together, ready for the machine or left and right accurately all at once. Rulers come in a lot of sizes. I chain-piece seams on garments as well, often sewing 2 garments up together. The gypsy quilter sells a round cutter, old rotary blade saver, in a case, which is good for cutting smaller sewn pieces apart, "ninja Flower." At the machine a thread clipper that fits in your hand, with a loop for one finger, is brilliant for cutting off excess threads, and separating long chain pieced seams. When I do long pants, the fabric gets tangled if I sew all four leg seams quickly, clippers are good here Some of the quilting ladies have interesting seam ripper (jack the ripper) speed techniques. Rotary cutters are also useful for paper, just change the blade first, and keep separate, paper blunts them quickly, fancy blades can cut decorative edges. In australia, fiskars have a starter pack... cutters also come in 90 mm, for prepping yardage in shops etc., and 30mm for small hand quilting pieces, maybe very good for paper. All the best.
Hi. I enjoyed seeing you so excited with your new tools. I have been sewing clothing for 60+ years and I have found some things I use to cut costs and save time. A finances get tighter I have found that I can buy rolls of paper that they use on exam tables at the doctor’s office. You can make a lot of patterns that fold easily for future use and it is way cheaper than pattern paper. The other tool I use is a surgical scalpel for taking out mistakes. You would have to make a sheath for storing it as it is very sharp but I use a number 12 blade on a reusable handle. I got mine on Amazon and if you need to take out a lot of stitches your hands will thank you. I have a Pfaff embroidery machine and I had made a mistake embroidering on chiffon, this tool allowed me to remove the mistake without damaging the fabric. I buy the blades by the box and supply some other ladies with them. You can buy them in some sewing supply places but at considerable cost. I enjoyed sewing my daughters clothes, she was my live baby doll. Happy sewing.
If you have a rapport with your doctor you can ask for the end of roll pieces they have (where it isn’t long enough for the table). I did and came home with about 20 rolls with varying lengths on them. It’s great for paper piecing quilt blocks or stabilizing seams while sewing.
Great tips! I have a feeling you might be a new viewer, because in most of my pattern drafting tutorials - that's exactly what I use, and I even mention medical paper as my favorite sewing supply for pattern drafting under the videos :)
Great video ! Just to know, lots of quilters use blue masking tape (the one used when painting walls) to help themselves with those diagonal sewing’s. Same concept as with the tape you bought. 🥰
The seam jumper looks like the one from Husqvarna that came with my Opal 690Q. I use it every time I switch needle. The best tool for so little money ever. It can also be used underneath buttons to create a distance when using the machine to sew buttons.
The thread clips will hold two Pfaff bobbins which, for quilting, can be helpful. When starting a new project, I like to fill three bobbins so a couple are ready as I go along! Great tips, and reviews!
I definitely need to get some water soluble thread. I like hand basting but invariably end up sewing over it so can't get it all out. Soluble thread is the perfect solution. We do we not know about it! Also the stretchable thread - amazing. I think Gutterman also do one.
Exactly my thinking about removing basting stitches where i manages to sew over them - pain in the butt. Ah yes, I think it is called maraflex thread :)
I started using the Eloflex thread last year and I love it. Gutterman also has a stretchy thread but I haven't tried that one. A seam jumper came with my new sewing machine but I don't use it, I usually just increase my stitch length when I get to bulky seam intersections and I sew more slowly. I keep forgetting I have a tool to help me lol.
I bought a new Pfaff sewing machine a little over a year ago, and it came with a seam jumper tool. I had no idea what it was or how to use it. Thank you!
I didn’t know there was something you could do about a thick seam. I love that u mentioned your alternatives like the eraser. I’m literally gonna buy a seam jumper rn. It would’ve been nice to have seen this video yesterday when I was finishing up a bag I made haha but thank u
I've owned two Pfaff sewing machines and two Viking sewing machines. All of them came with a bulky seam jumper in their accessory kits. I am a quilter, a costumer to Community Theatre and sew clothing for my family. I can't imagine working without the Bulky Seam Jumper but I thought they were part of the machine. Learn something new everyday.
I went and bought the Eloflex thread in many colors when Joann’s had a sale. My old Rocketeer only has a zig zag for kits and I don’t always want that stitch to show. I still haven’t tried any of it though. It’s definitely something between regular and elastic thread.
I loves your seam allowance two-pen hack! The Spirograph seam allowance gadget and water soluble tread would be great for zipper installation look great. Loved all the gadgets. Thank you.❤ Greetings from New York City.👍🏼🇵🇷🗽😃
Ah, seam jumpers with a needle threader! My hump jumpers don’t have the needle holders, so I’m off for this product! Thanks for your always inspiring videos! 💗
Make sure you keep the water soluble away from all the moisture (including moisture in the air on humid days / steam/ humidified rooms etc) i got told its recommended to put it in a bag with one of those moisture-absrbing crystal bag things that are in packaging of things alot. Moisture from humidity can weaken the whole thread spool, which is frustrating as hell or a single drop of water can dissolve straight through and you end up with a bunch of tiny strings which is useless for almost all our sewing purposes.
Thanks for the tip about the bag and the water-absorbing crystals. I’d had never seen this, so I’m excited to buy some. I live in Florida, so definitely need to avoid moisture.
I wondered about that as I live in the Greater New Orleans area. New Orleans has the highest relative humidity among big US cities, with an average of nearly 86% humidity. Storing it with the crystals is a great idea! THANKS!
I watched and enjoyed this from Germany! Thanks for all the tips! And I'm kind of tickled that you have Gütermann sewing thread in the US, which is what I use all the time. The originial German company is still located in a little Black Forest Village, Gutach. Probably they also have a factory in the US.
Guttermann is the most superb thread you can buy at the average sew dept. I used to splurge on it when I made designer outfits. Loved it. My garments always looked so professional, especially w the top stitching thread.
Hi Alisa! Thank you for showing us these sewing tools! I appreciate you taking the time to test them and showing us the results. I never heard of a water soluble thread before! I did love the stretchable thread idea, I think it can be very useful. I enjoyed your video. Thank you and Happy sewing! ✂🧷🧵📏😊💖
Hello Alisa. 😊. I was so excited for your review on the stretch thread because I knew I could totally trust your opinion. What an ingenious invention. The water soluble thread as well. I’ve never heard of it. I will be ordering both for sure. 🥰
I really liked this video! You’re very engaging in the way you speak and I learned a lot from you today. Thank you! I immediately added the seam jumper to my cart because I like to sew giant dragon plushies out of fleece and those seams can get very bulky!
Here are the links if you found something you liked!
1. Water soluble thread -amzn.to/3AHePQi
2. Seam allowance discs - amzn.to/3Ex4szt
3. Diagonal seam tape - amzn.to/3OyHHjb
4. Roll and press - amzn.to/3ExYE91
5. Thread "clips" - amzn.to/3XqcS4p
6. Bulky Seam Jumper - amzn.to/3GDdRbD
5. Eloflex Stretchable thread - amzn.to/3VEAhxx
This was interesting. Hadn't heard of Eloflex! May have to look in to that one.
@@Musicwarmsmysoul you knew about water soluble thread? You always amaze me with your knowledge! happy holidays, Esther!
@@ThoughtfulCreativity *Chuckle!* I have quilters in my family (not my jam, buy wow do they make beautiful things! There is a quilt in every bedroom) I also used to watch Nancy Ziemann, sometimes it was the only thing on tv early Saturday mornings! Also, you so hold the keys to pattern drafting! Many thanks for that.
Awesome, Thxs so much
A steam iron will also dissolve the soluble thread.
Nancy (nee’ Luedtke) Zieman, died 11/14/2017. May she rip. She was a sewing genius, and an inspiration to millions. I can not count the many things I learned from her. Her inventions are still saving time, & making our sewing lives easier. MSQC bought her company and her products are still available. Happy sewing 🧵!
I use to watch her all the time and I didn't even sew. I'm just learning now, started by sewing christmas stockings for everyone. RIP Nancy!
She was so talented. I taped all her programs back-in-the-day. He story is so sweet too.
@@jeanneolson2703 omg so sorry to hear that I used to watch her all the time. May she R I P 😢
I have at least one of her books which I bought when it was new. I just saw one of her videos on UA-cam.
I keep the water soluble thread in a large pill bottle, labeled of course, with the thread on a bobbin. I only use the thread in a bobbin because once it is in water the top thread will pull away in one piece. And, it's simple to know what's in the bobbin since the pill bottle is still out and there isn't a bobbin in there, so it's a great reminder.
I have many kinds of thread but have never had the water soluble one - right now I don’t know what I would use it for as I’m a quilter not a dressmaker!
@@sandybruce9092 You can use it for basting your quilt.
Nancy Zieman was AMAZING! I set my alarm early to get up an watch her on Sat. AM, and recorded her on VCR. Then everything changed to disc! RIP Ms. Nancy!
I did too! It is so nice that she gives credit where credit is due! So many people i youtube or instagram copy ideas or recipies as if they had invented the wheel! Nancy really did a lot for sewing and quilting I wouldn't mind watching her programs again!
I know! I just loved Nancy! I was very sad when she passed
I loved her too!
me too, she had a great style of teaching
The Best of Sewing with Nancy is still being aired in my area PBS. I record it on the DVR now.
You might want to try seam allowance magnets which you can attach to your scissors. I have four 5 mm magnets, which allow me to cut perfect 5, 10, 15 and 20 mm seams. I know different size magnets exist, so you can pick whatever suits your needs. And the best thing is: No need to add seam allowance to your patterns at all.
Oh yes yes, I have that one on my list for the future! Thank you!
As I sit here taking apart a test muslin to use the fabric again, I thought of your video and how the water soluble thread would make this easier. Thanks for sharing!
I inherited my mother's sewing machine when she passed away almost 17 years ago, and inside the storage box was this thing that I had no idea what it was. I've held on to it all this time because my mother was a very practical person and I believed it might be important. Now, thanks to you, I know what it is and I couldn't be happier! It's a "Bulky Seam Jumper"!!! Can't wait to try it! THANK YOU! 😊🙃😊
How nice to have the gift of your mom's machine and hold onto the sewing tool you didn't know about. This is a very handy tool you'll find useful. At first, I was clumsy with mine but once I got the hang of it I found it to be most useful, especially installing needles. It keeps them from falling and adds leverage because my hand gets in the way.
AKA, a hump jumper!!😉😊
@@CheleBoxy Mine said "jean-a-ma-jig"
@@mindywashburn5898 mine too
I had no idea they had seam jumpers that long ago. Now I'm feeling very old.😉
I had my mother's machine for 40 years, & couldn't figure out what this one foot was. Had 2 parts, & was the craziest sewing accessory I'd ever seen. Couldn't find it online to save my life. No one I asked had a clue. It was an elastic foot.🤦♀
Bulky Seam Jumper was known as a Jean-a-ma-jig back in my day, when making your own 'designer' jeans was all the rage. Have had mine for at least 30 years - LOVE it.
Same😊
Me too. It is a life saver when I make handbags and more
Also good for just sewing thicker layers if fabrics and batting. Love the diagonal seam tape but I still have a slight problem with getting it straight - just my wonky eyes😁
Great to see so many people excited by a love of sewing!
With the seam tape, if you line the corners of the block on the ¼ line, you can sew 2 lines of stitching on that block, cut apart and you get 2 half square triangles blocks!
Yes, I was going to tell her that.
I wondered if it was 1/4". Thank you!
I am envious, I don't understand what you mean. Not a quilter but still would like to know.
@@ooohlaa13 hi! You saw how she lined up the corner with the red line in the center to see corner to corner. You could then trim off the excess and iron it open (seam to the darker side usually, not flat). This is a half square triangle.Or you could make your square a bit larger, line up your point with the black line and sew 1/4" to each side of the center line. You would then cut down the middle, corner to corner and have two half square triangles without any waste. It's so much easier to show you, but I hope this helps. If you search on "half square triangle", you will probably find some good videos to show you.
Somewhere there are charts that tell you what size square to start with so you end up with the size block you need. For example, to get two 4" blocks, you might start with two 4 3/8" squares. I'm pulling numbers out of my bum, but hopefully you get the concept.
Half square triangles are a common block used in creating quilt patterns, like a pinwheel or a number of star patterns.
It’s called making two half squares at a time. Instead of sewing on the line like she did, you sew 1/4 inch from the line on both sides of that center line, which is on the diagonal. After you sew a quarter inch away from the center line on both sides, you can cut away the two parts by cutting down that center line. Now you have two triangles sewn together to make little squares. I hope that helps. Quilting is magical!
The double sided sticky Tape Water‑Soluble , I find brilliant for holding "difficult" fabrics together before sewing, eg knits that would stretch out of shape or velvet that slides around.
I watched a lady today use Glad press n seal to hold those slippery fabrics together. Sew through it, them pull it off. Totally impressed!
Good ones, Alissa! Fusible thread is good, also. Just remember when you have it in your machine!
The seam allowance discs are fabulous. I couldn't make paterns without them.
You're a natural teacher.
Glad I found you.
You have made my life a little brighter with your wisdom, teaching, and philosophy. Thank you.
The “seam jumper” tool came w/my sewing machine. I thought it was ONLY for changing the needle. I had no idea it had other uses. Thank you for teaching me something new today!
Some sewing machines come with it, but mine never did so I had no idea this existed:) nifty little tool, right? I am glad it gave you some extra info on it :)
Thank you for your very detailed presentation. You explain things so thoughtfully and thoroughly.
Diagonal seam tape is a life changer! Can’t live without it!
I watched Nancy in the 70s. Still have some of her books. Sure loved her and miss her
I m 63 and my mother sewed for other people locally. I had never heard of water-soluble thread. What a time saver!
The thread stops for thread spools are a life saver. The thread does not unroll until it is off. It keeps my thread from being tangled. There are pins you can buy that holds the matching bobbins on top of your spool. There are some that look like hair pins or their is a more expensive ones that are flatter. But the hair pin ones have a sort of handle on top that you can grab. They are great.
Seam allowance used by me for 40 years, I just eyeball and estimate when I cut have never drawn on anything & newer had a problem. My mother in law was a seamstress & taught me all she knew the I worked for father in law he upholstered antiques. Thank you for testing all these things for us. I liked the bulky seam inserter it is a good invention. Also the flexible thread
You explain things so thoughtfully and thoroughly. I watched and enjoyed this. Thanks for all the tips! 🥰
Thanks for video. The diagonal seam tape is a real shortcut when piecing squares made from two triangles. You STITCH along the two BLUE lines and then CUT along the center RED line.
Here is the process step-by-step:
To Use Diagonal seam tape - used by quilters to piece squares made from two triangles
1. First for blocks that will be made of two triangles (one from fabric A and one from fabric B), count number N of finished blocks needed.
2. Cut N/2 squares out of fabric A and cut N/2 squares out of fabric B.
3. Pin together two squares (one of fabric A and one of fabric B with right sides facing) - repeat for all squares.
4. Align red center line of tape with diagonal corners of a pinned square. Can place all the pinned squares on a line of tape (so all squares connected by tape.
5. Then sew down the marked blue seam lines on each side of tape. Sew the right seam line down the whole string of squares. Then turn and sew back down the other blue seam line down the whole string of squares.
6. THEN, cut the squares along the red center line of tape (this splits the N/2 pinned two layer squares into the N seamed squares, each made up of a triangle from fabric A seamed along the diagonal to a triangle from fabric B.
7. Press seams and you have the new pieced squares ready to attach to other parts of your quilt.
wow, thanx I saved this into my notes, I don't do quilt but love hacks and tricks of any kind sometimes you can translate into a different use!
The seam roller is more useful when you're doing foundation paper piecing for quilts. It's meant to just give a quick press to get your seams flat before you add your next piece on, so you don't have to keep going back & forth to your iron when making quilt blocks this way. 🙂
Good to know, Kimberly! All good points - I had a feeling it is very useful for quilters!
I've used this and it really isn't very good. If you really want a seam roller, go to your wallpaper store and buy their wallpaper roller. It's cheaper, the roller is wider and heaver and works much better.
Interesting video. An alternative to the Eloflex thread is Wooly (yes, only one L) Nylon. It's sort of fuzzy/fluffy so best to use it on the bobbin only, with regular thread on top. It comes in quite large spools so is economical. I've been using this on stretch fabric for years now and works a treat.
Oh yes, I use the spool of it in the bottom looper of my coverstitch! :) It does separate, you're right!
To quickly press seams that are near to the edge of the garment, I prefer to use my old hair flat-iron. As long as you can control the temperature, it can be used on polyester fabrics and delicates as well as paper.
For keeping threads in check, cut a slot in the top of the reel. Then slide the end of the thread into that slot. This is easy, cheap and makes it easy to find the end of the thread when you need it next.
I used to do that with the thread spools but I can't stand that then the cut edge catches on everything and the thread keeps constantly catching on it... :(
Great idea! I have a small and large flat iron that I haven't used in years! Yay! They're going to the sewing room! Thanks!
It's also good for when you are working on collars, cuffs, darts, etc. or getting the fold out of trims or linings. Just a little touch makes such a difference in final outcome and positioning.
I've just donated all my thread that has slots in the spool edge. Too many projects sliding to a frustrating halt when the thread catches.
As a minimalist person, I found you can use an ink brayer, pastry roller or any roller tool instead of buying one more thing to lose LOL! love the thread poppers, I have a big plastic box of threads that are separated into plastic bags by color, with little unravelling but I love those poppers for maybe the current spools that roll onto the floor when I am working on several colors. Love love the double pen trick, how good is that, and definitely must have soluble thread although I guess the fabric needs to be washable? Today i was thinking I need some elastic thread for a few things I knitted that need to have a tighter band and wondered if elastic thread available. Experiment on that one.I just found you and you are delightful and subscribed!
Great video!
A few suggestions and thoughts...
*When using (black &) white fabric, please choose a contrasting color thread (yellow-orange maybe?) to make the stiches easier for us to see.
*I use adult size ponytail holders on thread spools to keep them intact. They're soft and slip on and off easily, but stay put. For smaller diameter thread spools (think embroidery thread) just loop the ponytail holder over twice or get little girls' holders, which work well on bobbins, too.
*LOVED the suggestion of banding two writing tools together to add a seam allowance!
*You showed several new products - or ways to use products - I'd never seen before. Thank you!
I have been sticky-taping 2 pens together for years, with a small ruler for wider hems. Sometimes I added a crochet hook, to only get 1 drawn line...
That water dissolvable threat is soo cool! I love your seam allowance marking trick. 👍🏼
Oh, yeah! Love Nancy Zieman! I haven't sewn in a while, and had forgotten all about her. I probably learned 75% of what I know about sewing from her.
I like the stretchable thread. This is my first time seeing you. Thanks for a great video. I'll try to come back after my Christmas rush slows down.
Fun to watch! Keep that dissolvable thread in a sealed plastic bag and it will last longer. I got the "Humper Jumpers" with my sewing machine after buying one. And that tape can be used to stitch on both sides of that center line - making two half-square triangles instead of just one with waste on the other side. I will have to look for that stretch thread! That could come in handy!
I have that seam roller, it's great for sewing fabrics you can't iron like vinyl & cork. I sew bags & purses.😊
I bought the thread clips awhile before seeing this video and I can say they are great. I love them.
Water soluble thread would be perfect for basting gathers!
When you use your fingertips/nails to fingerpress seams there is a likelihood of stretching the seam, especially if it is in the bias. Using a seam roller before pressing may help with keeping the sewing the correct length.
Be careful of scammers.
I’ve been finger-pressing, but you make a really good point, Wendy. I may try something difn’t. Thanks.
I use a vintage sewing machine that is a one trick pony. Straight stitch only. I need to totally get that streach thread whenever I do work with knits for now on! The dissovable stitches I can not only see use for basting, but for making mockups with, that way you can take it apart again by simply dipping the seams in hot water. Of course you'd need to let that dry before transferring the modifications to your pattern.
I have a jade face roller that I use as a seam roll and press, it works great on my quilting cottons 😊
Walgreens sells a mini size Jade face roller for under $3
What is a face roller?
Brilliant!!
I wanted to add that many of the small spools of thread have a tiny little groove at each end where you can wrap your thread to keep it from unraveling. Some have a little slit that you pop the yarn into. The bigger spools are the ones I have an issue with... especially bonded thread as it's so slippery and silky. Thanks for the video!!!
Aurafil thread has a ring at the end of the spool that actually slides off to put on the other end or slides closer to spool to secure thread. Helpful for quilters!
Wow! This is the first time I've watched your channel and I found your review of these products very useful. I actually have the Bulky Seam Jumper but didn't know how it worked. Thank you for this useful information. I don't sew a lot, but always thought I could be better at what I do sew - so I'll be checking out other videos on your channel.
Great video. I use the seam Roller more for fabrics that really can't be ironed, i.e. vinyls and faux leathers. Also, for the stretchy thread, I prefer the new Guterman Maraflex thread. It's amazing.
A drawing compass works really well for seam allowance too. You can lock it into the measurement you want and it won't slide around like rubber bands on pens.
Good thinking! Love it!!!
This is s good tip! I have a compass, too!
Wow, I never thought of using a “geometry compass” to add a seam allowance. Good idea!
Oh, if my geometry teacher was alive, I'd apologize to her for always asking why I needed to know . . .
I grew up going to Nancy Zieman's store. Even as a kid it was a wonderland filled with amazing things. It's such a shame that store is no longer around.
These tools look incredible! I'm just starting sewing, with a desire to make clothes and household goods. I think these will really help. Where was that stretchy thread when I tried learning to machine sew on knit fabric 😂
Well thank you for the pens banded together for the seam allowance tip. I will definitely be using that from now on.
I got a set of the thread holder, but also the one that goes on the bobbin, and the clothespin looking thing that holds the bobbin on top of the thread. Love them all. I'll give it 5 stars for you. After years of trying to keep the thread and bobbin together, they are a sewing room must have!
Water soluble thread!!! OMG! How did I not know that? I immediately bought a spool. I can't wait. I just discovered the Eloflex thread. It is a game changer for bra and panty making. Yes, I found this video very informative and useful. Thanks
I love the thread clips. My thread gets everywhere. These will definitely help.
The seam roller is useful for pre-pressing fiddly seams where you need to keep your fingers close by holding things. This avoids burning your fingers with the iron.
Thank you, Sandie!
There are marble rollers for your face that will also work. I never thought to use it! Got mine at either TJ Maxx or Ross.
I have little bobbin holders on top of my thread spools, they keep the bobbin in place and hold down the end of the thread. They're so great. They're translucent colorless plastic. I tried a few styles before i found these
They're called willbond bobbin holders
The two types of thread definitely got my attention. I will be able to use both well. I also didn't know about the water soluble thread.
Yes! The Ecoflex thread is totally the stuff I've been looking for, without knowing exactly what it was I was looking, or even knew I was looking for it, LoL! I'm a decent seamstress, but knits have been my nightmare since day one! Doesn't matter how many tutorials I've watched and books I've read about zigzag stitches and stretchy fabrics/elastic, I can never get the 'right' zigzag stitch for my project.... and I don't have to tell you how much of a pain it is to pull stitches out of an elastic band! Arrrgghhh!!! That stretchy thread looks amazing! Ordering some now! Yay!
The thread tamer gadget that your gorgeous daughter enjoys might be for bobbins. Many spools now pop open at the ends or have the capacity to wind and secure the thread. These bobbin tamers - I have something similar - are worth their weight 1000 time in gold! My drawer of bobbins used to be a jumbled mess of threads, but not any more.
Washaway thread, and washaway stabiliser etc., is also used in machine embroidery. Been out for a lot of years. Keep away from moisture.
The seam tape, I use painters masking tape, a ruler and my pens instead, it's a lot cheaper. You can draw a wider line on wider masking tape, or a series of them, to match dress seam allowance widths. Or put the one you have with it's left line on needle spot? A perspex quilting ruler can help get the tape on and squared up.
To make 2 HSTs, sew another line at 1/2" away from the centre line, then cut down the centre, makes 2 different sizes. But not wasting the smaller pieces, bonus. To get 2 HSTs, the same size add 1/2" inch either way, before cutting squares. Use tape lines to sew 1/4" away from centre, on both sides, then cut down the centre. Press flat and trim to size if needed. Ignore this if you already know.
Do you cut out and make multiples at once? A rotary cutter 45mm is a good size, with a large for longer pattern pieces, double-sided, self-healing mat and a perspex ruler, to keep the blade on it's path, and sharp snips for corners, makes cutting out layered fabric for 2 of the same pattern garments a lot easier. Right sides together, ready for the machine or left and right accurately all at once. Rulers come in a lot of sizes. I chain-piece seams on garments as well, often sewing 2 garments up together. The gypsy quilter sells a round cutter, old rotary blade saver, in a case, which is good for cutting smaller sewn pieces apart, "ninja Flower." At the machine a thread clipper that fits in your hand, with a loop for one finger, is brilliant for cutting off excess threads, and separating long chain pieced seams. When I do long pants, the fabric gets tangled if I sew all four leg seams quickly, clippers are good here Some of the quilting ladies have interesting seam ripper (jack the ripper) speed techniques.
Rotary cutters are also useful for paper, just change the blade first, and keep separate, paper blunts them quickly, fancy blades can cut decorative edges. In australia, fiskars have a starter pack... cutters also come in 90 mm, for prepping yardage in shops etc., and 30mm for small hand quilting pieces, maybe very good for paper. All the best.
I like that diagonal tape!!!
Before I knew about the diagonal tape, i just marked a piece of masking tape and attached it to my sewing machine. Works great.
wow first time hearing this thread
I learned over 40 years ago how to trade a curved seam allowance with a small straight ruler. It’s actually easy!
Hi. I enjoyed seeing you so excited with your new tools. I have been sewing clothing for 60+ years and I have found some things I use to cut costs and save time. A finances get tighter I have found that I can buy rolls of paper that they use on exam tables at the doctor’s office. You can make a lot of patterns that fold easily for future use and it is way cheaper than pattern paper. The other tool I use is a surgical scalpel for taking out mistakes. You would have to make a sheath for storing it as it is very sharp but I use a number 12 blade on a reusable handle. I got mine on Amazon and if you need to take out a lot of stitches your hands will thank you. I have a Pfaff embroidery machine and I had made a mistake embroidering on chiffon, this tool allowed me to remove the mistake without damaging the fabric. I buy the blades by the box and supply some other ladies with them. You can buy them in some sewing supply places but at considerable cost. I enjoyed sewing my daughters clothes, she was my live baby doll. Happy sewing.
If you have a rapport with your doctor you can ask for the end of roll pieces they have (where it isn’t long enough for the table). I did and came home with about 20 rolls with varying lengths on them. It’s great for paper piecing quilt blocks or stabilizing seams while sewing.
Great tips! I have a feeling you might be a new viewer, because in most of my pattern drafting tutorials - that's exactly what I use, and I even mention medical paper as my favorite sewing supply for pattern drafting under the videos :)
Great video !
Just to know, lots of quilters use blue masking tape (the one used when painting walls) to help themselves with those diagonal sewing’s. Same concept as with the tape you bought. 🥰
Water soluble thread and/or interfacing is really old (30+ years), as is the heavy seam jumper, but that certainly doesn't make them less handy..
The seam jumper looks like the one from Husqvarna that came with my Opal 690Q. I use it every time I switch needle. The best tool for so little money ever. It can also be used underneath buttons to create a distance when using the machine to sew buttons.
My Husqvarna came with one too! Most useful gadget ever - have used it for more than 23 years
That's what I use mine for, but I'm going to try it on difficult spots while quilting
I really love seeing new sewing tools
The thread clips will hold two Pfaff bobbins which, for quilting, can be helpful. When starting a new project, I like to fill three bobbins so a couple are ready as I go along! Great tips, and reviews!
I wasn't actually expecting such good products. I have to get that stretchable thread.
thanks from istanbul, Turkey.
I never heard of water soluble thread. I've been sewing for 50 years.
The diagonal tape looks great for quilting, Ima gonna hava try that.
Love both soluble thread and the stretchable thread, which would be ideal for the hems of my maxi dresses.
I definitely need to get some water soluble thread. I like hand basting but invariably end up sewing over it so can't get it all out. Soluble thread is the perfect solution. We do we not know about it!
Also the stretchable thread - amazing. I think Gutterman also do one.
Exactly my thinking about removing basting stitches where i manages to sew over them - pain in the butt. Ah yes, I think it is called maraflex thread :)
I started using the Eloflex thread last year and I love it. Gutterman also has a stretchy thread but I haven't tried that one. A seam jumper came with my new sewing machine but I don't use it, I usually just increase my stitch length when I get to bulky seam intersections and I sew more slowly. I keep forgetting I have a tool to help me lol.
Omg I already love your voice, so when you modified it, I think I got little hearts and stars in my eyes!! 😂😍🤩
The Clover seam roller; you have to apply ample pressure when rolling. I bought one about 5 years ago for quilting and love it.
Great ideas on the tools. I ordered one of the bulky seam tool. I found it on Amazon for $4.99. I will have a better luck with my seam sewing.
I bought a new Pfaff sewing machine a little over a year ago, and it came with a seam jumper tool. I had no idea what it was or how to use it. Thank you!
I didn’t know there was something you could do about a thick seam. I love that u mentioned your alternatives like the eraser. I’m literally gonna buy a seam jumper rn. It would’ve been nice to have seen this video yesterday when I was finishing up a bag I made haha but thank u
I've owned two Pfaff sewing machines and two Viking sewing machines. All of them came with a bulky seam jumper in their accessory kits. I am a quilter, a costumer to Community Theatre and sew clothing for my family. I can't imagine working without the Bulky Seam Jumper but I thought they were part of the machine. Learn something new everyday.
I went and bought the Eloflex thread in many colors when Joann’s had a sale. My old Rocketeer only has a zig zag for kits and I don’t always want that stitch to show. I still haven’t tried any of it though. It’s definitely something between regular and elastic thread.
These are great products which will make my life much easier. Thank you very much for sharing these products and uses.
I loves your seam allowance two-pen hack! The Spirograph seam allowance gadget and water soluble tread would be great for zipper installation look great. Loved all the gadgets. Thank you.❤
Greetings from New York City.👍🏼🇵🇷🗽😃
I got a seam jumper with my newer sewing machine, but didn't know what it was for. Well thanks to you I now know. Back anonimity I go.
Oh my goodness! Where have you been thank you for the great information you get ten 🌟
I use sticky note pad instead of a seam jumper, works really well, and you can adapt the thickness needed. Hope this helps
Me too! Fold it up into a stick, you can use it under the foot as is or double over for really thick seams.
Ah, seam jumpers with a needle threader! My hump jumpers don’t have the needle holders, so I’m off for this product!
Thanks for your always inspiring videos! 💗
Oooh, good to know that yours is different! My pleasure, I was on the look out for useful sewing tools
Make sure you keep the water soluble away from all the moisture (including moisture in the air on humid days / steam/ humidified rooms etc) i got told its recommended to put it in a bag with one of those moisture-absrbing crystal bag things that are in packaging of things alot.
Moisture from humidity can weaken the whole thread spool, which is frustrating as hell or a single drop of water can dissolve straight through and you end up with a bunch of tiny strings which is useless for almost all our sewing purposes.
Yep, mine is sitting in a baggy! Good to know, thank you so much!!!
Thanks for the tip about the bag and the water-absorbing crystals. I’d had never seen this, so I’m excited to buy some. I live in Florida, so definitely need to avoid moisture.
I wondered about that as I live in the Greater New Orleans area. New Orleans has the highest relative humidity among big US cities, with an average of nearly 86% humidity. Storing it with the crystals is a great idea! THANKS!
An alternative to the little packets which may be hard to find, is sprinkling some diatomaceous earth into the bag.
@@dale3404 me too, as soon as I heard that I said oh no, I live in Florida!!!
I’m adding stuff to cart and am only a third way through the video! Awesome tips!
I watched and enjoyed this from Germany! Thanks for all the tips! And I'm kind of tickled that you have Gütermann sewing thread in the US, which is what I use all the time. The originial German company is still located in a little Black Forest Village, Gutach. Probably they also have a factory in the US.
Guttermann is the most superb thread you can buy at the average sew dept. I used to splurge on it when I made designer outfits. Loved it. My garments always looked so professional, especially w the top stitching thread.
Gutermann is everywhere. It's by far the main thread in Australia, where I am.
We also use this and Rasant in australia.
I’m quite new to sewing but it didn’t take me long at all to decide that it was worth it to spend a bit more on Gütermann.
Hi Alisa! Thank you for showing us these sewing tools! I appreciate you taking the time to test them and showing us the results. I never heard of a water soluble thread before! I did love the stretchable thread idea, I think it can be very useful. I enjoyed your video. Thank you and Happy sewing! ✂🧷🧵📏😊💖
Wash away thread was a lifesaver when I was learning to make bras!
Hello Alisa. 😊. I was so excited for your review on the stretch thread because I knew I could totally trust your opinion. What an ingenious invention. The water soluble thread as well. I’ve never heard of it. I will be ordering both for sure. 🥰
I am so happy that this helped with the thread, also, Guterman has some too, it is called Maraflex - seems like people love it!
i cut a fine slice in bottom of thread cones and just put thread end in it , no cost , easy peasy !
I used to do that - but for me it (the cut part) catches on everything and makes even bigger mess :(
The water soluble thread is great for sewing fabric sandwiches to practice quilting designs! Loved it
Love the Clover products! Some are 'game changers'!
Wow. Thanks for the Eloflex review. I've purchased it to sew stretchy work pants and underwear. Can't wait to try it out.
I really liked this video! You’re very engaging in the way you speak and I learned a lot from you today. Thank you!
I immediately added the seam jumper to my cart because I like to sew giant dragon plushies out of fleece and those seams can get very bulky!
Great ideas, & thanks for the easy to follow instructions. I'd have been lost without you!
😲😲😲 I like that thread, that dissolves in water
Thank you and Happy New Year!
These ideas are like 😮. Thank you.
I put the seam jumper on my Amazon list. Thanks.
Aww she’s designing already, to sweet
Thank you! Nice to know where to go get helping gadgets.