How to Edge Stitch

How to edge stitch It's easy to edge stitch evenly and close to a folded or garment edge.

---Change your machine presser foot to a wide straight stitch or edge stitch food.

---Align the folded edge or seam line with the inside edge of the foot, and set your stitch length at 2.0 mm.

--- Stitch 1/16 inch from the folded edge or seam line.

If you don't have an edge stitch foot, use a zigzag foot and reset the needle so it's on the extreme right hand side. 

More sewing tips--> Here 

Fabric Chalk Alternatives

As you know, I'm all about working with what I have. If you don't have fabric chalk, or you lost it in the pile of fabric in your sewing station, using small soap pieces will do the trick just fine.

You may lose your chalk, but you know exactly where your soap is :)

I hate thimbles!

I know I'm not the only one... Come on!!!!
Do you really want metal that comes off easily? I hate needle pricks, calluses and all the "perks" that come with being a sewer.

My bright idea, is.... BANDAGES!!!!! yeah really simple, really cheap. It doesn't slip off, and when you're done after 6+ hours of sewing just take it off.

Make sure the padding is where the needle would normally hit, otherwise whats the use!

*Another short, yet valuable tip from Jen :)

How to prevent runaway beads

We just had a disaster zone, when a bag of really small round beads fell. I'm not exaggerating when I tell you it took days to pick up. So I have a new method of dealing with beads.... Sticky Paper!

When I'm beading on fabric, I use sticky back paper to keep my beads contained. I cut a piece of contact shelf liner, about 8x12 inches (like a piece of paper) and remove the protective paper from the adhesive side. I place the paper sticky side up on a padded board, and pin or tape it to each of the boards corners. I then spread the bead on the sticky paper and they stay put!!

So I get to fit in my favorite chair while I bead away!