I don't remember giving you permission to use me in this comparison. I AM the group who don't do the right things. Can you imagine not doing the 7 correct things on the same block. I wonder why I can. I love your videos. I am so lucky to have found your youtube channel. The disappearing 9 patch is one of my favorite designs. I can not wait to do one correctly.
I am an impatient person but the difference when you starch for cutting accurately, sewing without stretching and the wonderful end results are worth the effort.
That is such a great idea for a clapper. If anybody missed it, her clapper appears to be the front of a drawer or small cabinet door with a handle on it. That is awesome and much better price and size than a "clapper" from a quilt store. Thanks
I tend with you said that you do not use a started of tail when sewing a seam, but, if you can use scraps for the starter you will be making progress on your crumb blocks.
Thanks so much! Have recently been realizing starching is a key and have discovered StaFlo. Like your handle for the starch. Will order from your link. Also thanks for the great tip about needle down for starting!! I was using a starter piece and recently saw a tip about simply holding the thread which I like better than the starter piece but needle down is even better!! Thank you!!
Lots of good tips, Tracey. Without starching, I really to make a mess of things! I’m just too old to cut well without a little starch. Thanks for always providing good tips and well-organized tutorials. Pat Berne
I bought a tiny ruler with a hole at the 1/4”. I put this under my presser foot and move the needle until it fits in the hole. Works great and is accurate. The only down side is it is only about 2” long, so I am constantly looking for it. Bought it at the quilt store.
I'm in a small online group of lady quilters, and the question of using a clapper or not has been asked. The general consensus is that they're too expensive. Your clapper is freaking GENIUS. It's bigger than normal ones and is only a few bucks. Thank you for this bonus tip!!!!
I could just kiss you! I've tried and tried to become more precise and no matter how carefully I measured and weighted my rulers on the end, I was failing so my blocks were not perfect. Your method has given me new hope! Bless you forever and ever.
Well I definitely learned something about my machine that I never realized before. I learned that I do have needle positioning. I've been sewing for over 60 years and I keep learning all the time. Thanks for teaching me.
I'm very grateful for my sister, who started quilting years before me, taught me every one of these tricks, but one. I never knew to check my cuts after, but still I did pretty good overall. She taught me much more tho, like glue basting, about frixion pens and washable markers, etc. I'm going to have to remember this one too. I'm blessed to learn from her and others, thank you!
I was thinking of you yesterday when I began sewing together a 25 piece block. I had very carefully trimmed the half square triangles and they were ironed. ( I don’t have starch yet.) I was so careful with my seams. I was careful with the needle when I started sewing each seam. I am not finished yet but I am impressed that most of the points and seams line up so well, and the one or two that are off, are just by a tiny bit really. I saw the fabric “bend” a few times. This project wants to be carefully done because it is navy blue and white half square triangles arranged in a star within a star pattern. Everything shows. Thanks for encouraging me to be more careful when it matters. 😁
I definitely agree with starching! And spray starch is great (LOVE your handle attachment hack). But I would also recommend trying liquid starch for bigger projects. Vano is a good brand. Water it down according to how light or stiff you want your final product, then dunk the whole cloth in there, squeeze it out, and iron it dry. I like a pressing cloth to prevent any starch build-up on my iron.
Thank you for this demonstration.it is so helpful to me. I stopped quilting except for scraping. Now I will go back and check everything you reviewed in this video. I never even gave thought to the idea my needle could be the problem with accurate stitching. Thank you so much will use all these tip with my next quilt😊❤️👍🙏
Great video! It changed some of the things I was taught from when I was told I should be making quilts with a sewing machine. When pricing by hand we always pressed seams open, always measured seams, always pinned. Then quilting by machine became popular- seams pressed to one side to lock pieces, other things were to save time. I still like hand piecing, but my hands don't LOL! You bring back the quiet of quilting not rushing, thank you.
I,come from,the time when hand piecing was the only was to piece - and we were told to ABSOLUTELY never iron seams open! We pressed them to one side. I have learned that I can actually press seams open and not have the quilt police come after me!!! Because I now piece by machine (but I still enjoy hand piecing😄😄👍).
I was taught to hold the two thread ends before you make your first stitch, holding the threads prevents nests. I have seen a case made for using a thick leader of you are sewing a thick layer of fabrics to bring the presser foot level with your work.
I always assumed I was the problem. Now I know it’s the process not the operator. Lol. I’ve been doing a deep dive to more precision quilting and this video was very clear. Thank you!
Great video. Through trial and errors, I have learned that starching and pinning are essential for precision. I use liquid starch. Very cheap. I dunk fabric in diluted starch, squeeze excess and either hang outside to dry or put in dryer on LOWEST temperature. Lovely stiff fabric to work with. Also, I LOVE your clapper. I have avoided using them because of the expense and if they are just blocks of wood, why can't I just use wood I already have.
Here is the link Debbie to make the exact same clapper I use in this video ua-cam.com/video/ZJDknsneC84/v-deo.html Thank you so much for your starching tips! I appreciate you sharing them💛
As a huge fan of your wonderful informative videos, I’ve a question. What is the major difference between using starch and the other pressing aides such as Best Press? Thank you, Joyce G
Good question! Aerosol spray starch contains "wax particles"...when the wax dries it creates a hardness over the fabric making it really stiff and easy to work with✅ The best press...(in my opinion) is mostly made up of water and fragrance and does not make the fabric as stiff as I would like. Now that being said....some people love Best Press....🤷🏻♀️ But spray starch is superior when it comes to piecing fabric to reduce shifting❤️
@@TheSewingChannel Thank you, Tracy. I’ve been sewing since I was a preteen. Needless to say that was long ago. Always said I’d never quilt but in the last 15 yrs the bug has bitten. Love the wonderful info I gain from you. Thank you for your sharing and teaching. You are amazing.
Your videos are great! I am a beginner who use to steam press, but you start me to starch & press . I love ❤️ starch and get less lint or dust in the bobbin case and flatter blocks. Thanks🎉
I just LOVE your UA-cam Channel!! I am from South Australia, and even though I have been quilting for about 16 years, you have taught me HEAPS of tricks and hacks!!! Plus you are funny, and I love hearing any new good ideas that you have. I was teaching Beginner's Quilting at our local church at a Craft Group I started a number of years ago, but I eventually had to stop due to bad health. I really miss teaching....I enjoyed it so much! I am no Master Quilter....I have just done a lot of fun quilts for my grandchildren and friends, and been to lots n lots of Quilting Classes at various places over the years. Now that I can't get out and about so easily, my laptop is my best friend, and all the online quilters, and teachers, like you are my new Teacher's, keeping me up to date with new ideas. Plus I just LOVE those Hacks of yours!! Please keep the ideas and the Hacks coming!! Love from Sue in South Australia xxx
Starching my fabric has been a game changer or me. Mt blocks come out so much better. I d spray with diluted staflo liquid starch. It is much cheaper that way.
Hello! Another fun chat to listen to while I hand quilt! I just want you to know how much I enjoy your channel's content. I hope you have a wonderful week ahead! Thank you for sharing this video and your time.
I'm binging on your channel as I piece. I disagree with starters when chain piecing. 9mm machines will suck the fabric in, even with straight stitch needle plate. The fabric goes in through the feeddogs. I have experienced this on the Janome 9450 and the Bernina 880. I'm enjoying your tips and tricks! Please keep up the good work.
thank you so much for the excellent video. I have seen some quilters I thought were pros do all of the don'ts you talk about but none of the do's. This will definitely help me a lot.
Darn! just sewed all my squares together and didn't press them open! I saw doing it another way on another site. Wont do that again!!! Yours looks so much neater and precise!!
Great video. I always prewash my fabric first. I would rather know about the bleeding, etc before I make a quilt. I heavily starch on the wrong side and lightly massage the starch while wet to ensure I have the starch on all the fabric. When it is time to press I press on the right side. If I buy fabric at a store who cuts I buy extra. Then when I get home I tear one side to make sure the fabric is on the grain. I do this before I prewash because the fabric usually goes on the tear line without any issues. I only use open seams when required by multiple seams hitting at the same point. Love my clapper and ensuring I have the quarter inch seam.
I'm not a pinner, but I'm a glue baster....and glue means no distortion--but a non starter for quilters who like to press their seams open.. It is endemic to my work process. I starch--and I use both spray (if I find it at my local salvage store for .99) or use 50:50 stayflo in a spray bottle that finely mists. Love the sprayer gadget (I think I have one). It also protects the top of your sprayer from falling and having the button snap off and leaving much product stranded in the can. I don't and won't press open. I find that pressing seams open to be additional work. But I do use teflon sheets for pressing, and I spin my seams for flat joins. Do I get as flat as open seams? Maybe not, but I don't have any need to..Thanks for sharing these great tips.
Thank you. This video is excellent. I’m new to quilting. I started with a couple of very forgiving rag quilts. I’ve made a few foundation paper piecing blocks for baby bibs. (Mistakes not a problem - the baby doesn’t seem to mind ;-). I love using freezer paper & stitch in the ditch so I can reuse my FPP designs. My big big projects will be the quilts I am planning to make using my Angel Daughter’s clothing. Because there is an absolutely finite fabric supply, I’m working on gathering old cloths from other folks to make some practice quilts. Having different weighted fabrics will be a challenge. I suspect the starch will be very helpful. I plan to appliqué some heavier or decorative clothing parts onto my quilts. It will not be a typical memory quilt. So much to learn.
I never knew that I should be starching. I honestly thought I was doomed to always be just ever so Slightly wonky! Lol I can't wait to be more accurate now! Thank you Tracy
Definitely use a water mister when I press my fabric, but have never used spray starch (even though I do have some on my shelf). Guess it's time to try it out!
About using a starter scrap: reasons to use them: you don't have thread ends that you need to cut off and deal with. Just snip between units. You can seam small units (scraps squares work great) in place of the scrap, and before you know it you are halfway to another quilt! (This is called "leaders and enders".) On many machines you are sewing with a large zigzag hole in the face plate of the machine and lightweight (especially garment or fancy crazy quilting fabrics) can easily be pulled down into that and cause trouble or even be damaged..
I have a Brother machine like you but the next model down. I never knew that I could change my needle position like that! I'm such a ninny for not reading that in my manual lol! Thanks so much! ❤️
awesome vid....great information! i have only been quilting about 5 years...but from the very beginning i starched! makes a huge difference....i also pre wash/dry my fabrics before use.....then iron and fold neatly .... put in bin until used.....:). thanks again!
I am a self-taught beginner. I have watched so many of your videos and especially love this one! You make the viewer feel like a next door neighbor dropping in for a visit. (Wish I was your neighbor 😁 do not mean to sound weird ). Do you travel and do live classes?
Hi Tracy, I've just sewn 476 hexagons on my new Juki. I dropped the needle, held the thread & raised the needle to pull up the bottom thread, and then keeping a hold of the top thread started to sew. It was the only way to consistently not get tangles. Y seams are great, right? ;-;
Hi tracey, I have a handle for my spray cans also ,home depot has them for around 8dollars I have been using mine for years ,I love starch ! Thanks for sharing and I'm glad we're on the same page ,😇🌞
A lot depends on whether you are making a "sleep-under" quilt or one that looks like it was machine printed. Sure, pin the joins, but a thread off in either direction can make you crazy if you let it. What is your final product? How critical is thread-for-thread join? Do you unsew and resew 4 or 5 times to make it "perfect"? The making should feed your soul as much as the sleeping under.
Chrissy...I wonder if sewing teachers taught students the "leader & ender" thing on older machines? With my experience there is no need with newer sewing machines✅
I don’t starch because I’m always in a rush. I’m going to start now. I hear so many quilters say “oh I never use pins!” This is wrong on so many levels...I consider it a form of shaming. I’m a pins or clips girl and proud if it. A very good video.
Very helpful, however, if you want to stitch in the ditch when quilting, you wouldn't iron your seams open as you would be stitching in thin air, instead you would have to stitch 1/4 inch away from the seam either side.
Additionally, STID is generally done in the "ditch" caused by pressing allowances to one side rather than directly into the seam. The stitch is done on the lower side or opposite direction from the pressed seam allowances.
@@mariettedemarest5173 sorry but aren't you being a little pedantic. Either way, if your seams are open I wouldn't use this method of stitching and instead stitch 1/4" either side of the ditch for security, instead of this method. That is my point.
@@carolynnecp Clarification please, because I'm a newer quilter and confused by your comment. If the seams are ironed open, when you stitch in the ditch, you are only sewing the opened seam allowances to the top fabric which is on either side of the piecing seam - which wouldn't secure the piecing seam. So I'm struggling to understand what you mean by "stitch 1/4" either side of the ditch for security". How would stitching the seam allowances to the top fabric make the piecing seam more secure? Thank you for the help.
While the fast quilters one sees in online tutorials may get things done with stunning speed, we only see the production, not the actual way they quilt. Nevertheless, I have always felt bad about pinning and starching -- especially pinning. I have really beaten myself up about it. My quilts generally come out about 95% perfect. But after watching this, I will be pinning, starching and clapping!
Great video, saving a big piece of cardboard for starching. I'm glad you addressed the leader/ender issue. If you have a drop in bobbin, like most modern machines it is not necessary but I definitely use them on my other machines. I ordered the can handles and the forceps. Take care.
Thank you Chrystal for the kind feedback. People with newer machines than me are using leaders and enders 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe they do it because they see others do it so often🤷🏻♀️ Those handles are a game changer ✅ and I love my needle nose, grippy, plastic medical forceps💜 Have a great weekend 🌸
Interesting that your first comments were about starching. I never even thought about using starch until I moved to NC in 2003 and met people who star h fabric really well. And now I definitely starch - a lot!! Makes machine piecing so much easier and better looking.
Great tips. I just finished my first quilt top ever while being in quarantine. Normally I sew clothes. I already did a lot of things you suggested and I am very proud how precise my quilt top turned out 😊 I aLways pin my seams when sewing clothes so I also did it when sewing the quilt. I also set my seams and use a clapper (which I recently bought). I even used spray starch on some fabrics that were very thin and flimsy. I made my quilt only using fabric from my stash and most fabrics are not specifically made for quilting. But I starched the blocks after cutting. I’ll change that next time. I also made sure to set my machine to get the 1/4‘‘ seam allowance. But that was necessary anyway because normally I use metrics and I never sewed with that seam allowance before. I already ordered some batting and I hope I’ll be able to sandwich and quilt the fabrics in a nice way and end up with a lovely quilt. It’s very nice craft (but very time consuming) and I hope this will not be my last quilt. I can see how it can be very addicting.
Thank for this.... Some things I do and some I do not.... I definitely will use some of the things you have shown.... Wow the starched one was so clean and precise!
You are so welcome Chrissy...Starching is a total game changer✅ It took me awhile to actually start implementing into my quilting...but now I can never NOT starch LOL😂
I do enjoy leaders and enders though, just because I like crumb piecing. For me it's an opportunity to organically build little bits without thinking about it or taking much time. I have a small scrap container handy, and run random pairs through as fresh leaders/enders all the time when I sew.
I agree for this reason. I sew on a vintage machine, not a computerized one and so using the leaders and enders saves thread, saves my thread from nesting and just makes the journey more pleasant. No fusing with pulling on the threads to the back of the machine before each block. I love your videos, Tracy. Keep them coming.
@@TheSewingChannel when you are sitting between your tables everything seems to me so functional. So, I will move next month and I want to place every table like yours. Thanks for your good informations and the idea for my tables.
Great tips. Here’s another…..I use the Clover Press Perfect ruler to find my perfect 1/4 inch. Put it under the presser foot like a piece of fabric and drop the needle through it right on its 1/4” line. Then see exactly where the right edge of the ruler sits relative to the edge of the presser foot and you will see exactly where the fabric edge needs to run. 😀
As a scientist, if you want to give more confidence that starching made the difference in the final product, all other steps should have been done the same way for both starched and unstarched fabrics. As it is, all 7 or only 1 to 6 of the 7 variables could have made the difference in the finished product.
Nothing as the materials I buy have still got the starch in the material. If I feel it is not starched I definitely use the spray. Thank you for bringing that up as many of my friends don't starch at all
Most tips are helpful, especially dropping the needle, however, if I spent this much time on a quilt top that honestly, after quilting and washing the quilt won't even be noticeable, I would not enjoy it nearly as much. I won't be starching, or opening my seams, but I do use pins and will double check my seam allowance. I believe that if you had pinned both blocks you would have seen almost equal precision.
Thanks for the video! You voice is very reassuring. I'll order the spray can holder. Great idea! My finger gets so tired between starching and spray basting. I've been using a clapper recently and it does make a difference! Thanks again!
I love how you show everything and how to pin. I wanted to know why you starched at the beginning and had them wet and let them dry. Why is this done? I have starched a couple of fat quarters and sprayed and pressed right away. I am only learning things. I know starching clothes you press right away.
I saturated with the starch which makes them extra wet...you shouldn't iron over really wet items....when you let it dry then the wax in the starch leaves a nice dry coating over the fabric...then when when you press it...it comes beautifully stiff💛
I tried using Terial Magic on smaller cut pieces and WOW! what a difference! It made those pieces stiff like paper and there was no bias stretching. I've thought about watering it down for larger pieces but haven't gotten that far yet.
I don't remember giving you permission to use me in this comparison. I AM the group who don't do the right things. Can you imagine not doing the 7 correct things on the same block. I wonder why I can. I love your videos. I am so lucky to have found your youtube channel. The disappearing 9 patch is one of my favorite designs. I can not wait to do one correctly.
I am an impatient person but the difference when you starch for cutting accurately, sewing without stretching and the wonderful end results are worth the effort.
That is such a great idea for a clapper. If anybody missed it, her clapper appears to be the front of a drawer or small cabinet door with a handle on it. That is awesome and much better price and size than a "clapper" from a quilt store. Thanks
I noticed that too. Going to have to try that. I noticed a clapper has made more of a difference in my seams than a wool pressing mat did.
I tend with you said that you do not use a started of tail when sewing a seam, but, if you can use scraps for the starter you will be making progress on your crumb blocks.
Thanks so much! Have recently been realizing starching is a key and have discovered StaFlo. Like your handle for the starch. Will order from your link. Also thanks for the great tip about needle down for starting!! I was using a starter piece and recently saw a tip about simply holding the thread which I like better than the starter piece but needle down is even better!! Thank you!!
Lots of good tips, Tracey. Without starching, I really to make a mess of things! I’m just too old to cut well without a little starch. Thanks for always providing good tips and well-organized tutorials. Pat Berne
I have listened to this 3 times all the way through and this time went to how to set the needle for my 1/4 seam. Very helpful!
Wonderful! Your doing great Phyllis if it only took you 3 times✅ Takes me much longer to hear what I need to do and then to do it LOL😂
I bought a tiny ruler with a hole at the 1/4”. I put this under my presser foot and move the needle until it fits in the hole. Works great and is accurate. The only down side is it is only about 2” long, so I am constantly looking for it. Bought it at the quilt store.
I'm in a small online group of lady quilters, and the question of using a clapper or not has been asked. The general consensus is that they're too expensive. Your clapper is freaking GENIUS. It's bigger than normal ones and is only a few bucks. Thank you for this bonus tip!!!!
Wish I had seen your tip a month ago, before I got a clapper
I could just kiss you! I've tried and tried to become more precise and no matter how carefully I measured and weighted my rulers on the end, I was failing so my blocks were not perfect. Your method has given me new hope! Bless you forever and ever.
Glad I could help Frances💛 have a great weekend 🌸
Well I definitely learned something about my machine that I never realized before. I learned that I do have needle positioning. I've been sewing for over 60 years and I keep learning all the time. Thanks for teaching me.
I'm very grateful for my sister, who started quilting years before me, taught me every one of these tricks, but one. I never knew to check my cuts after, but still I did pretty good overall. She taught me much more tho, like glue basting, about frixion pens and washable markers, etc. I'm going to have to remember this one too. I'm blessed to learn from her and others, thank you!
I can’t believe starching makes that much difference! Thank u for showing us
Yes it does for me Katie✅ Try it and see how you like it.....keep me posted💛
I was thinking of you yesterday when I began sewing together a 25 piece block. I had very carefully trimmed the half square triangles and they were ironed. ( I don’t have starch yet.) I was so careful with my seams. I was careful with the needle when I started sewing each seam.
I am not finished yet but I am impressed that most of the points and seams line up so well, and the one or two that are off, are just by a tiny bit really. I saw the fabric “bend” a few times.
This project wants to be carefully done because it is navy blue and white half square triangles arranged in a star within a star pattern. Everything shows.
Thanks for encouraging me to be more careful when it matters. 😁
Wow Patty...a 25 pc block is no joke!!!!
Sounds like you really took your time.....
that makes a big difference in the outcome for sure.
Way to go!!!🎉
@@TheSewingChannel ♥️♥️♥️
I definitely agree with starching! And spray starch is great (LOVE your handle attachment hack). But I would also recommend trying liquid starch for bigger projects. Vano is a good brand. Water it down according to how light or stiff you want your final product, then dunk the whole cloth in there, squeeze it out, and iron it dry. I like a pressing cloth to prevent any starch build-up on my iron.
Thank you so much for more starching tips Marialla✅
Thanks for the pressing cloth tip.
I NEVER double check my cutting. But this shows just how big a difference it makes! Wow
My eyes have been opened! Thank you for doing the side by side comparison. More, please!!!
✅ Thank you for the kind feedback Mary💛
Thank you for this demonstration.it is so helpful to me. I stopped quilting except for scraping. Now I will go back and check everything you reviewed in this video. I never even gave thought to the idea my needle could be the problem with accurate stitching. Thank you so much will use all these tip with my next quilt😊❤️👍🙏
Great video! It changed some of the things I was taught from when I was told I should be making quilts with a sewing machine. When pricing by hand we always pressed seams open, always measured seams, always pinned. Then quilting by machine became popular- seams pressed to one side to lock pieces, other things were to save time. I still like hand piecing, but my hands don't LOL! You bring back the quiet of quilting not rushing, thank you.
That is awesome that you love to hand sew Cynthia💛 and thank you for the kind feedback.....I enjoy the quiet of quilting too🌸
I,come from,the time when hand piecing was the only was to piece - and we were told to ABSOLUTELY never iron seams open! We pressed them to one side. I have learned that I can actually press seams open and not have the quilt police come after me!!! Because I now piece by machine (but I still enjoy hand piecing😄😄👍).
This was a great video...I definitely learned a few things today..thank you 😁
I was taught to hold the two thread ends before you make your first stitch, holding the threads prevents nests. I have seen a case made for using a thick leader of you are sewing a thick layer of fabrics to bring the presser foot level with your work.
I always assumed I was the problem. Now I know it’s the process not the operator. Lol. I’ve been doing a deep dive to more precision quilting and this video was very clear. Thank you!
Yes Cindy....sometimes it is not always the operator....it's the process and how it's done✅ Well said my quilty friend!!!!!💛
Great video. Through trial and errors, I have learned that starching and pinning are essential for precision. I use liquid starch. Very cheap. I dunk fabric in diluted starch, squeeze excess and either hang outside to dry or put in dryer on LOWEST temperature. Lovely stiff fabric to work with. Also, I LOVE your clapper. I have avoided using them because of the expense and if they are just blocks of wood, why can't I just use wood I already have.
Here is the link Debbie to make the exact same clapper I use in this video ua-cam.com/video/ZJDknsneC84/v-deo.html
Thank you so much for your starching tips! I appreciate you sharing them💛
As a huge fan of your wonderful informative videos, I’ve a question. What is the major difference between using starch and the other pressing aides such as Best Press?
Thank you, Joyce G
Good question! Aerosol spray starch contains "wax particles"...when the wax dries it creates a hardness over the fabric making it really stiff and easy to work with✅ The best press...(in my opinion) is mostly made up of water and fragrance and does not make the fabric as stiff as I would like. Now that being said....some people love Best Press....🤷🏻♀️ But spray starch is superior when it comes to piecing fabric to reduce shifting❤️
@@TheSewingChannel Thank you, Tracy. I’ve been sewing since I was a preteen. Needless to say that was long ago. Always said I’d never quilt but in the last 15 yrs the bug has bitten. Love the wonderful info I gain from you. Thank you for your sharing and teaching. You are amazing.
Your videos are great! I am a beginner who use to steam press, but you start me to starch & press . I love ❤️ starch and get less lint or dust in the bobbin case and flatter blocks. Thanks🎉
Thank you so much for this video. I changed the needle setting to 6.5 and perfect 1/4 inch seams now.
Wonderful! That is so awesome...it's the little things that make a big difference💛
I think starching well is very key to helping bias cuts not stretch, and helping straight cuts not fray.
agreed!✅
It's all in the ironing, if you use pressure instead of press and life you will stretch the material whether bias or not.
Thank you! I had been wondering about the difference in starching clothing and starching quilting fabric. You've given me courage to try this out!
Wonderful Fran...give it a try for sure....You will even feel the difference in the fabric as you handle it....game changer✅
I just LOVE your UA-cam Channel!! I am from South Australia, and even though I have been quilting for about 16 years, you have taught me HEAPS of tricks and hacks!!! Plus you are funny, and I love hearing any new good ideas that you have. I was teaching Beginner's Quilting at our local church at a Craft Group I started a number of years ago, but I eventually had to stop due to bad health. I really miss teaching....I enjoyed it so much! I am no Master Quilter....I have just done a lot of fun quilts for my grandchildren and friends, and been to lots n lots of Quilting Classes at various places over the years. Now that I can't get out and about so easily, my laptop is my best friend, and all the online quilters, and teachers, like you are my new Teacher's, keeping me up to date with new ideas. Plus I just LOVE those Hacks of yours!! Please keep the ideas and the Hacks coming!! Love from Sue in South Australia xxx
Wow...thank you Country Blossoms for all of your kind feedback on my channel....I really do appreciate it❣️
Omg! I LOVE that handle!! Genius!!! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing all you do!
You are totally welcome Tiffany✅ The handle is a game changer in starching quilting fabric🌸
Thank you ! I don’t like pressing but I do it!
Thanks Tracy! I am one of those quilters who has used a leader. I will try dropping my needle.
Let me know if it works for you Crystine ✅ I would love to know🤷🏻♀️
Starching my fabric has been a game changer or me. Mt blocks come out so much better. I d spray with diluted staflo liquid starch. It is much cheaper that way.
Game changer for me too Rhandi✅
Yes, I like the faultless concentrate.
Love your 'clapper' and your 'tongue-in-cheek' humour in this video 🤭😄
Thank you Lesley! I appreciate your support of my channel🌸
Muy útil video. Voy a probar inmediatamente bajar la aguja antes de comenzar la costura. Muchas gracias y felicitaciones! Great work!
Patricia- ¡Muchas gracias por apoyar mi canal! Realmente lo aprecio 💛
Thanks for reminding me why quilting is not my favourite craft
LOL Ragath!
Hello! Another fun chat to listen to while I hand quilt! I just want you to know how much I enjoy your channel's content. I hope you have a wonderful week ahead! Thank you for sharing this video and your time.
Thank you for stopping by Brenda. I appreciate it very much✅💛
I'm binging on your channel as I piece. I disagree with starters when chain piecing. 9mm machines will suck the fabric in, even with straight stitch needle plate. The fabric goes in through the feeddogs. I have experienced this on the Janome 9450 and the Bernina 880.
I'm enjoying your tips and tricks! Please keep up the good work.
thank you so much for the excellent video. I have seen some quilters I thought were pros do all of the don'ts you talk about but none of the do's. This will definitely help me a lot.
You are so welcome Teresa......Happy quilting🌸
Fantastic video. I am going to use all your suggestions especially the starch before cutting. Thank you
Thank you Lupie....starching is a huge game changer in quilting✅
Darn! just sewed all my squares together and didn't press them open! I saw doing it another way on another site. Wont do that again!!! Yours looks so much neater and precise!!
Open or to one side both work✅ It is really a matter of preference🤷🏻♀️
Great video. I always prewash my fabric first. I would rather know about the bleeding, etc before I make a quilt. I heavily starch on the wrong side and lightly massage the starch while wet to ensure I have the starch on all the fabric. When it is time to press I press on the right side. If I buy fabric at a store who cuts I buy extra. Then when I get home I tear one side to make sure the fabric is on the grain. I do this before I prewash because the fabric usually goes on the tear line without any issues. I only use open seams when required by multiple seams hitting at the same point. Love my clapper and ensuring I have the quarter inch seam.
Thank you for sharing Nancy💛
Great video ! Got to try this stitch ! Thanks! Xox 💚
I'm not a pinner, but I'm a glue baster....and glue means no distortion--but a non starter for quilters who like to press their seams open.. It is endemic to my work process. I starch--and I use both spray (if I find it at my local salvage store for .99) or use 50:50 stayflo in a spray bottle that finely mists. Love the sprayer gadget (I think I have one). It also protects the top of your sprayer from falling and having the button snap off and leaving much product stranded in the can. I don't and won't press open. I find that pressing seams open to be additional work. But I do use teflon sheets for pressing, and I spin my seams for flat joins. Do I get as flat as open seams? Maybe not, but I don't have any need to..Thanks for sharing these great tips.
Thank you Leisa for sharing all your great tips with us🌸💛
I use Acorn or Best Press on all my fabric prior to cutting. Makes all the difference in the world!
"it all adds up" [in the end]. You betcha!
Thanks for making this video, it was very much needed especially by us quasi beginner quilters.
Glad it was helpful Virginia🌸
Thank you. This video is excellent. I’m new to quilting. I started with a couple of very forgiving rag quilts. I’ve made a few foundation paper piecing blocks for baby bibs. (Mistakes not a problem - the baby doesn’t seem to mind ;-). I love using freezer paper & stitch in the ditch so I can reuse my FPP designs.
My big big projects will be the quilts I am planning to make using my Angel Daughter’s clothing. Because there is an absolutely finite fabric supply, I’m working on gathering old cloths from other folks to make some practice quilts. Having different weighted fabrics will be a challenge. I suspect the starch will be very helpful. I plan to appliqué some heavier or decorative clothing parts onto my quilts.
It will not be a typical memory quilt.
So much to learn.
I have never thought of foundation paper piecing bibs before Beth...that is a really great idea✅ Have fun quilt making🌸
I'm guilty on all charges. I will incorporate all the techniques you shared with us quilters Thank You!!!
Well I'm so happy you learned something new Rich! Yay..we all learn together💛
I never knew that I should be starching. I honestly thought I was doomed to always be just ever so Slightly wonky! Lol I can't wait to be more accurate now! Thank you Tracy
You’re welcome Amanda💛 we will all keep learning together 🌸
Definitely use a water mister when I press my fabric, but have never used spray starch (even though I do have some on my shelf). Guess it's time to try it out!
Yes..give it a go✅
About using a starter scrap: reasons to use them:
you don't have thread ends that you need to cut off and deal with. Just snip between units.
You can seam small units (scraps squares work great) in place of the scrap, and before you know it you are halfway to another quilt! (This is called "leaders and enders".)
On many machines you are sewing with a large zigzag hole in the face plate of the machine and lightweight (especially garment or fancy crazy quilting fabrics) can easily be pulled down into that and cause trouble or even be damaged..
Extremely helpful to this beginning quilter!
Glad it was helpful Chrisann✅
Starch makes stars very very very crisp and perfect!! 🤩🤩
Great video!!
I agree totally Martha✅
I have a Brother machine like you but the next model down. I never knew that I could change my needle position like that! I'm such a ninny for not reading that in my manual lol! Thanks so much! ❤️
It's ok Janis...I'm still learning too.✅
Lol ..I JUST found the beginning tack stitch on my little Brother machine... after 2 years!
Homemade clapper? Awesome.
awesome vid....great information! i have only been quilting about 5 years...but from the very beginning i starched! makes a huge difference....i also pre wash/dry my fabrics before use.....then iron and fold neatly .... put in bin until used.....:). thanks again!
Thank you Jodi for the kind feedback💛
This was a wonderful lesson with terrific tips. I haven't been much of a "starcher", but from now on...!!
I never used to starch either....but it's a quilting game changer✅
Needle down to start and avoid the birds nest??? Totally worth the price of admission. Mind blown!!!
I am a self-taught beginner. I have watched so many of your videos and especially love this one! You make the viewer feel like a next door neighbor dropping in for a visit. (Wish I was your neighbor 😁 do not mean to sound weird ). Do you travel and do live classes?
Not weird at all!! I actually taught a "live" class today at a quilt retreat...so much fun.❤️
Hi Tracy, I've just sewn 476 hexagons on my new Juki. I dropped the needle, held the thread & raised the needle to pull up the bottom thread, and then keeping a hold of the top thread started to sew. It was the only way to consistently not get tangles. Y seams are great, right? ;-;
I learned a lot. I have done everything but actually sew a quilt. It’s time to get started. Thank you for the great videos
You can do it!
Hi tracey, I have a handle for my spray cans also ,home depot has them for around 8dollars I have been using mine for years ,I love starch ! Thanks for sharing and I'm glad we're on the same page ,😇🌞
Awesome Neva! Great minds think alike they say! Lol 😂
A lot depends on whether you are making a "sleep-under" quilt or one that looks like it was machine printed. Sure, pin the joins, but a thread off in either direction can make you crazy if you let it. What is your final product? How critical is thread-for-thread join? Do you unsew and resew 4 or 5 times to make it "perfect"? The making should feed your soul as much as the sleeping under.
This video was mainly for the "fussy" quilter LOL I say "let it all go" and create!!!✅
I was taught to use leaders and enders. Good advice.
Chrissy...I wonder if sewing teachers taught students the "leader & ender" thing on older machines? With my experience there is no need with newer sewing machines✅
I don’t starch because I’m always in a rush. I’m going to start now. I hear so many quilters say “oh I never use pins!” This is wrong on so many levels...I consider it a form of shaming. I’m a pins or clips girl and proud if it. A very good video.
Excellent presentation! Your quiet calm approach is soothing in our chaotic world. Thanks:)
So nice of you to comment Molly....thank you so much for the feedback💛 Have a great weekend!🌸
My machine eats fabric, going to try your drop needle method! You rock!
Very helpful, however, if you want to stitch in the ditch when quilting, you wouldn't iron your seams open as you would be stitching in thin air, instead you would have to stitch 1/4 inch away from the seam either side.
Thank you for the info CP✅
Additionally, STID is generally done in the "ditch" caused by pressing allowances to one side rather than directly into the seam. The stitch is done on the lower side or opposite direction from the pressed seam allowances.
Stitching in the ditch is not "in" the ditch, it is just to the side, about 1/8 inch.
@@mariettedemarest5173 sorry but aren't you being a little pedantic. Either way, if your seams are open I wouldn't use this method of stitching and instead stitch 1/4" either side of the ditch for security, instead of this method. That is my point.
@@carolynnecp Clarification please, because I'm a newer quilter and confused by your comment.
If the seams are ironed open, when you stitch in the ditch, you are only sewing the opened seam allowances to the top fabric which is on either side of the piecing seam - which wouldn't secure the piecing seam. So I'm struggling to understand what you mean by "stitch 1/4" either side of the ditch for security".
How would stitching the seam allowances to the top fabric make the piecing seam more secure?
Thank you for the help.
Thank you!! Obrigada from Brasil!
You’re welcome ☺️
While the fast quilters one sees in online tutorials may get things done with stunning speed, we only see the production, not the actual way they quilt. Nevertheless, I have always felt bad about pinning and starching -- especially pinning. I have really beaten myself up about it. My quilts generally come out about 95% perfect. But after watching this, I will be pinning, starching and clapping!
Great pointers. I’m guilty of some of these 🙄
Great video, saving a big piece of cardboard for starching. I'm glad you addressed the leader/ender issue. If you have a drop in bobbin, like most modern machines it is not necessary but I definitely use them on my other machines. I ordered the can handles and the forceps. Take care.
Thank you Chrystal for the kind feedback. People with newer machines than me are using leaders and enders 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe they do it because they see others do it so often🤷🏻♀️ Those handles are a game changer ✅ and I love my needle nose, grippy, plastic medical forceps💜 Have a great weekend 🌸
Interesting that your first comments were about starching. I never even thought about using starch until I moved to NC in 2003 and met people who star h fabric really well. And now I definitely starch - a lot!! Makes machine piecing so much easier and better looking.
Yes..I totally agree Sandy....makes piecing enjoyable✅
From my Florida friends I have learned that bugs love to eat fabric that has been sprayed with starch. For that reason, they use Magic Sizing instead.
Thank you for that info✅
I learned a lot, and will come back to this to remind myself, getting a bit forgetful….
Thank you, I learned why I lacked the precision that I wanted.
Glad to help💛
Great tips. I just finished my first quilt top ever while being in quarantine. Normally I sew clothes. I already did a lot of things you suggested and I am very proud how precise my quilt top turned out 😊
I aLways pin my seams when sewing clothes so I also did it when sewing the quilt. I also set my seams and use a clapper (which I recently bought). I even used spray starch on some fabrics that were very thin and flimsy. I made my quilt only using fabric from my stash and most fabrics are not specifically made for quilting. But I starched the blocks after cutting. I’ll change that next time. I also made sure to set my machine to get the 1/4‘‘ seam allowance. But that was necessary anyway because normally I use metrics and I never sewed with that seam allowance before.
I already ordered some batting and I hope I’ll be able to sandwich and quilt the fabrics in a nice way and end up with a lovely quilt. It’s very nice craft (but very time consuming) and I hope this will not be my last quilt. I can see how it can be very addicting.
Thanks for sharing your journey sphhyn 💛and yes quilting is very addictive!✅😂
😊
Thank for this.... Some things I do and some I do not.... I definitely will use some of the things you have shown.... Wow the starched one was so clean and precise!
You are so welcome Chrissy...Starching is a total game changer✅ It took me awhile to actually start implementing into my quilting...but now I can never NOT starch LOL😂
I do enjoy leaders and enders though, just because I like crumb piecing. For me it's an opportunity to organically build little bits without thinking about it or taking much time. I have a small scrap container handy, and run random pairs through as fresh leaders/enders all the time when I sew.
If you enjoy it then absolutely keep on doing it✅
I agree for this reason. I sew on a vintage machine, not a computerized one and so using the leaders and enders saves thread, saves my thread from nesting and just makes the journey more pleasant. No fusing with pulling on the threads to the back of the machine before each block. I love your videos, Tracy. Keep them coming.
Yes unfortunately with the vintage machines there Is a definite need for leaders and Enders ✅
Can you show us your sewing room??
Sure...maybe in a future video✅ Not much to see though LOL😂
@@TheSewingChannel when you are sitting between your tables everything seems to me so functional. So, I will move next month and I want to place every table like yours. Thanks for your good informations and the idea for my tables.
Thank you for all the great quilting tips. I'm so impressed with your knowledge.
Wow Ann. Thank you!!! 💛 it’s more like I’m a “sewing/quilting nerd”! Lol 😂
Brand new quilter here! Thanks so much for your tips! What kind of starch do you use?
I use cheap dollar general starch...it's the best...I think the generic name is "true living"✅
Great tips. Here’s another…..I use the Clover Press Perfect ruler to find my perfect 1/4 inch. Put it under the presser foot like a piece of fabric and drop the needle through it right on its 1/4” line. Then see exactly where the right edge of the ruler sits relative to the edge of the presser foot and you will see exactly where the fabric edge needs to run. 😀
Great tip Elise✅
Thanks for the tips Tracy.
You are so welcome Nancy🌸
Thanks so much for teaching us more about quilting! 💗
You are so welcome Leesa💛
Thanks for sharing 👍 😊 enjoyed your video and content. 🥰
Thank you so much Teresa!!!🤗 And thank you for supporting my channel🌸💛 I appreciate it so much!!!💛
Good to know what you should do. Doesn't mean you always have to. ;-)
You're absolutely right Patricia....Step by step add in tips to your projects and before ya know it.....quilting like a pro✅
As a scientist, if you want to give more confidence that starching made the difference in the final product, all other steps should have been done the same way for both starched and unstarched fabrics. As it is, all 7 or only 1 to 6 of the 7 variables could have made the difference in the finished product.
I totally agree. This was a comparison of MANY, MANY techniques.
Nothing as the materials I buy have still got the starch in the material. If I feel it is not starched I definitely use the spray. Thank you for bringing that up as many of my friends don't starch at all
Thanks for sharing Tineke💛
Most tips are helpful, especially dropping the needle, however, if I spent this much time on a quilt top that honestly, after quilting and washing the quilt won't even be noticeable, I would not enjoy it nearly as much. I won't be starching, or opening my seams, but I do use pins and will double check my seam allowance. I believe that if you had pinned both blocks you would have seen almost equal precision.
Thanks for sharing Wendy!💛
Thank you
You're welcome Darleen💛
Thanks for the video! You voice is very reassuring. I'll order the spray can holder. Great idea! My finger gets so tired between starching and spray basting. I've been using a clapper recently and it does make a difference! Thanks again!
Oh Helen I can’t wait for you to try the handle for the starch! It’s a game changer!!!🌸
Wow. Amazing lessons to keep
Thanks for watching Ellen!🌸
I love how you show everything and how to pin. I wanted to know why you starched at the beginning and had them wet and let them dry. Why is this done? I have starched a couple of fat quarters and sprayed and pressed right away. I am only learning things. I know starching clothes you press right away.
I saturated with the starch which makes them extra wet...you shouldn't iron over really wet items....when you let it dry then the wax in the starch leaves a nice dry coating over the fabric...then when when you press it...it comes beautifully stiff💛
Love the clappers I have
Gotta love a clapper for sure Angela💛
Thank you great ideas especially the quarter seam.
You are so welcome Debby....Happy Quilting🌸
We use to wash our fabric before taking to your sewing room. Times change n now we want that sizing in our fsbric
I know Peggy...it all seems to circle around eventually....soon enough we will all be pre washing again LOL😂
I tried using Terial Magic on smaller cut pieces and WOW! what a difference! It made those pieces stiff like paper and there was no bias stretching. I've thought about watering it down for larger pieces but haven't gotten that far yet.
I've never heard of Terial Magic...I will look into it✅
@@TheSewingChannel If you try it please do a video because I'd like to know what you think of it.
I sure will!
I always starch but I don’t use as much as you did. I could tell the difference between the two blocks ! Thank you
Starch really does keep things stable✅ Thank you for watching Brenda✅
Excellent tips, Tracy! Thank you.
Glad it was helpful Sharon💛
Thanks for this great video! All of these ideas are so useful.😁
Glad it was helpful Patti!💛 Have a great weekend coming up🌸
I definitely learned something. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful Nadine🌸