SewWonderful

Craftsy Classes

2012-01-28T11:38:00.000-08:00

I have signed up for 2 online classes at Craftsy. It's a great online learning environment. The class handouts are nicely formatted and you can always go back and review lessons. The classes never close. Now to get to my homework. ;)

Keeping Warm

2011-12-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

Has it really been nearly 6 months since I last posted? WOW! The great move has been so distracting, I haven't been doing my usual sewing and knitting. Now, with winter just around the corner, scarves have been on my mind and finally on my knitting needles.

This little scarflette was an enjoyable weekend project that will likely become a repeat. I will make some changes in the keyhole opening, though. I prefer dividing the stitches to make an opening between 1x1 ribbing.

Right now, a version of the potato chip scarf is on my needles. While some can't make just one, I am finding the endless short rows too boring. I think this one is my last.

Want to knit one of my favorite scarflettes? I have been making this one since we took up cross country skiing in the 80's. The design was from a couple of scarves my mom had when we lived in Winchester, New Hampshire. I don't remember wearing either after my family started moving around. My mom had forgotten them but I found the style so fascinating and practical for skiers that I just had to create the pattern from memory. By the size of the scrap bag I gave away on freecycle this summer, I must have knit and given away hundreds since that first one I recreated with a skein of worsted weight yarn.

Click to download pdf pattern.

Sunny Smiles from 2011 4-H Quilt Camp

2011-06-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

Sugarless Treats: Crayon Cookies and Kool Aid Playdough

2011-04-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

We are off to see the new baby but not without some fun treats for big brother. The crayons were made in the Wilton cookie mold pan (mini-muffin pan works well, too) and a silicone candy tray.

Just peel the crayons, break them into pieces, and group them by color families in the molds (no need to use a cooking spray if you have a freezer). Preheat the oven to 200 degrees and place pan in oven for 15 minutes. The silicone candy mold will need a baking sheet under it to keep it flat. Check at about 10 minutes to make sure you have enough broken crayons in the mold, if not, add more. The silicone molds take longer to heat the crayons to melting point. When, melted, turn off oven and open door. Let the crayons cool until set around the edges, then cool on the counter until set (I put mine outside). When set, put tray in freezer until cold. The crayons will slide right out of the pan or pop out of the silicone molds. Look for inexpensive silicone molds at a dollar store and use only quality, non-toxic crayons. The silicone may absorb some of the dye from the crayons so don't use a borrowed tray. And you will need a fair amount of crayons. The box in the right picture was filled.

For the playdough, plain inexpensive bleached flour, salt, and a light colored cooking oil will make the most vibrant colors but you may want to have some extra liquid food coloring on hand.

Kool-Aid® Playdough

1 cup flour
1 package unsweetened Kool-Aid®

1/4 cup salt

2 tablespoons cream of tartar

1 cup hot water

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Mix flour, salt, cream of tartar, and Kool-Aid® together well with a fork in a medium pan. Add hot water and oil. Stir over medium-low heat 3 to 5 minutes. When mixture forms a ball in the pan, remove. Knead until smooth. Put in a plastic bag and refrigerate. Dough is smooth, non-sticky, and smells nice.

Another Two Done, One to Go!

2010-12-14T22:04:00.000-08:00

My mom has put in requests for three aprons. One was easy. She had me copy a chef's style apron that fit her well. I made the first one last year and completed another last month. The next request was a challenge.

When I saw her for her birthday in October, she had an ad for a smock type apron. With the renewed popularity of aprons, you think it would be easy to find a pattern for a smock but googling didn't bring much success and none were in the pattern books for the major companies, either.

With the help of some internet friends, I located a vintage Kwik Sew pattern for a zip front smock. It didn't have a yoke, gathers, or buttons; but with a picture of a pattern insert from another vintage pattern, I made adaptions to the Kwik Sew pattern and now my mom will have her smock.

Next, but with no immediate pressure, will be an apron she can wear next fall and on Halloween when she answers the door to trick or treaters. Mom used to dress up as a witch until she scared her one and only a few years ago in her old neighborhood. Since she moved, her new location is very popular and she lamented she wished she at least had a special apron for the occasion.

The toddler apron is for the cutie who smiles at you up in the corner. My daughter is giving him some small but real cooking utensils for Christmas. I promised a chef's apron. I need to complete a matching hand towel, next.

If you like the embroidery design, you can find it at Embroidery Library. This is from a set for the "fruits of the spirit." They offer the design for both small and large hoops. I reduced the design from the large pack to fit the pocket with no problems.

Stay Calm!

2010-11-27T15:25:00.000-08:00

Make your own poster: Keep Calm-o-matic

Spiral Rib

2010-11-07T18:51:00.000-08:00

I needed a spiral rib for socks with 30 stitches on each of 2 circular needles so I charted it in Excel. Click to enlarge.

National Tie One On Day!

2010-11-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

Get in the spirit of giving aprons! Join in the fun, creating memories of special people, aromas, and occasions spent in the kitchen :

Cranking Out Aprons, Litterally

2010-11-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

In recent months, my husband and I have been blessed with some great hospitality provided by some very special hostesses. To show our appreciation, I have been busy making aprons.

With two fabrics and rick-rack, I was frequently changing thread to match. I finally decided, with so many machines in the house, why not use two. The one I chose was a hand crank model that was already in the sewing room and fit easily on the end of my small sewing table. Also, it doesn't add to the tangle of cords running under or across the table. I love sewing on a hand crank machine. It is so relaxing.

Today, I finished another apron for our 4-H silent auction. Both apron patterns appear in Retro Aprons by Cindy Taylor Oates. I can't wait to get her latest apron book, Mother and Daughter Aprons. Maybe I am dreaming there is a little girl in my future? ;)


http://apronmemories.blogspot.com/2010/10/national-tie-one-one-day-2010-is-here.html

Binding Magic

2010-10-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

I often get asked how I get my binding on potholders and placemats so even. DH thinks when I make them, I am practicing voodoo. ;) The secret to my success is lots of pins!!

I make my own 1/2 inch wide double fold binding from 2 inch wide bias strips and a Clover Bias Tape Maker. I don't recommend any other brand of bias makers. The Clover brand makes a better fold than any of the others I have tried.

Before applying the binding I zigzag the raw edges of the potholder or placemat together. This gives a nice firm and secure edge with nothing that will get caught in the seam when attaching the binding.

After zigzagging the edges of the potholder or placemat, I open up one fold of the binding, pin to the back side, stretching slightly as I round the corner, and then sew in the crease of the fold. Rounded corners are easier than square because you don't have to miter. If you plan the overlap where the binding meets, for a spot where the fabric in the face block blends or matches with the binding, it won't be as noticeable. Once the binding is attached to the back side, I fold it over the raw edges to the front for the final pass of stitching.

View from the back side with one fold open: Pins perpendicular to the edge are easier to pull out and can be spaced close to prevent puckers and pleats.

My binding is attached just like shown for the Retro Fun Quilted Mitts. But, I pin like crazy and I generally choose to use either my Pfaff 7570 or Davis VF. Both machines have an upper feed system that insures the multiple layers move between the presser foot and throat plate without puckers and folds. You could choose to use a walking foot attachment, too, but some machines have multiple feed dogs to ensure even feeding. You may not need to use a walking foot to avoid puckers.


It doesn't matter if you pin from the inside or the outside, just catch the binding and the top layer to prevent distortion.

Unless you really have the Midas Touch with a sewing machine, I recommend you zigzag topstitch the binding down on the last pass. Thirty years ago in a quilted jacket class, a master seamstress told us that unless you hand stitch the binding down, it will never be perfect by machine. Instead, if you must use a machine, zigzag; it will look "straighter" than if you tried to straight stitch it in place. I have faithfully followed that advice because the binding is never exactly the same on the front and the back and straight stitching just accentuates all of the inconsistencies on the back side. Additionally, if your machine likes invisible thread, you can use it to mask the faults.

Note: If you like to hand stitch, just reverse the side you sew the binding on in the first pass. Sew to the front and flip to the back, then use a hand blind-stitch to sew down the binding in place of zigzag.

The Price of Socks

2010-10-21T00:16:00.000-07:00

Don't under price your hand-styled socks! Designer socks are bringing in big bucks! Some look like something sold at any outdoor store.

DH says mine are easily worth $200 and he is right, I knit so slowly, I have way too many hours in them but I knit in the evening when I was just hanging out on the internet and when I am riding in the car. I have reclaimed time. ;)

Oh, if you really want people to notice your socks, make sure you have shoes that show them off. Comfort and style meet in the new Mary Jane fitness style shoes. I chose the budget version from Kmart at 19.99. ;)

Socks with a Picot Hem

2010-10-03T14:30:00.000-07:00


Finished Picot Hem

These socks needed something a little different after being knit in ribbing. The picot hem was the perfect finish. I switched from K4P2 ribbing to stockinette for the width of the lavender stripe. Then I repeated [K2tog,YO] for the folding row. The next row was K, including the YO's. Lastly, came K3P3 ribbing for the width of the lavender stripe, followed by a stretchy bindoff. I tacked the hem over with a cross stitch needle (fine tapestry needle with a blunt tip) threaded with woolly nylon serger thread (one could split the fingering yarn into strands as an alternative). Every inch, I stopped to stretch the hem so there would be enough slack in the woolly nylon to fit my leg. I also kept the whip stitches short to prevent my fingers from snagging them when I put on the socks. These socks are only a little over 5 inches long in the leg. They stay up without additional support from elastic thread caught in the ribbing rows, an optional addition for longer socks on thin legs.

Picot Hem after the Socks Come off the Needles

Picot Hem Tacked in Place with Woolly Nylon Serger Thread

Waffle Rib Socks are Done!

2010-08-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

I actually finished these socks in time for show and tell on August 21. My SIL and I had fun sharing our sock knitting progress. I love her soft wool socks made from Knit Picks' Stroll yarn. And guess what I just discovered at Knit Picks? Yarn suitable for dying! Yes, I am itching to try dying my own sock yarn. I'll be stocking up on Kool Aid and Wilton's food coloring gels. Keep you all posted on the results.

Connecticut Yankee Block

2010-08-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

Free Quilting Clipart

I just saw the Connecticut Yankee block. I like the positive negative effect and the possibilities for a scrap quilt. While the block can be pieced traditionally with templates, I thought you might like a foundation paper pieced version. Click on the block to get the bmp sized for a 6.5 inch block, then right click and save. Using 4, you will have a 12.5 inch block. Or use the 4.5 inch block below for a 8.5 inch block.

Never too Much Fabric, Right?

2010-08-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

I say I am not going to buy more fabric, but I have done it again. A bag, not huge but not small, has been collecting since the first of May when we on vacation. I can't stay away from the stuff but I have enough!

Even if this video won't cure the addiction, it will bring a smile:

Too Much Knitting!

2010-08-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

Last week I had to stop knitting for a few days due to tendonitis in my right wrist. SIGH!! Of course I was able to get some much needed work done but still I missed making progress on the new socks on my needles. What to do???

I let my wrist take a break and then I started in with some exercises. I had a few stretches that I was familiar with but ultimately, strengthening the muscles is beneficial. Here are a few links to get your started with improving the strength and flexibility in your hands and the supporting muscles:

Hand and Wrist Exercises

And a Few More

Waffle Rib Instead

2010-08-03T22:46:00.000-07:00

The intended zigzag rib that I mentioned in my previous entry, was far too complicated. The pattern had a repeat of 20 rounds! And I thought the wiggly bubble texture was a challenge!

I don't need any more mind benders with the reasons for 4-H judging classes needing my attention. The waffle rib is easy and brainless. The version I came up with that works for this weight yarn is for multiples of 3; knit 2, purl 1 for four rounds, then purl the 5th round. Repeat the 5 rounds. The stretch is enough to work through the leg portion of the sock. I need the give if I make my socks the standard 7 inches.

Real Socks!

2010-08-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

This is the first pair of socks with real sock yarn. The first two pair were from yarn labeled worsted weight. I can't believe I actually managed to knit with fingering weight yarn. It isn't as bad I as I once thought.

The textured design is actually a mistake. I found a spiral rib that looked fun but it was written for straight needles. When I wrote it for circs, I made a few errors and ended up with a wiggly bubbly effect that is very stretchy. I liked it so much, I didn't tear it out and rewrite. The only down side was trying to duplicate the pattern when I dropped stitches. It was a real effort for my brain to think backwards through the pattern to pick the stitches up with a small crotchet hook.

Wiggly Bubble Rib (multiples of 4)
Rnd 1: *Knit 2, Purl 2; rep from *
Rnd 2: *Purl 2, Knit 2; rep from *
Rnd 3: Knit 1, *Purl 2, Knit 2; rep from *, end Purl 2, Knit 1
Rnd 4: Rep rnd 3
Rnd 5: *Purl 2, Knit 2; rep from *
Rnd 6: Rep rnd 5
Rnd 7: Rep rnd 3
Rnd 8: Rep rnd 3

The next pair of socks will have a zigzag rib up the top of the foot and around the leg. It is a cool pattern written for circs in Socks a la carte. I can't wait to get my copy of the new version written for toe up socks, Socks a la carte 2.

Big Smiles, Beautiful Quilts!

2010-07-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

10th Annual Quilt Camp

2010-06-25T18:12:00.001-07:00

What an amazing week! And a wonderful group of family and volunteer helpers!

Want to host a quilting camp in your area? Click the link below for info on obtaining the complete curriculum on CD. The curriculum was written under the direction of Washington State 4-H staff and WSU AMDT faculty.

Quilting Camp Curriculum Information

Purple Passion

2010-06-18T15:34:00.000-07:00

The second pair of socks came off the needles on Wednesday night. They aren't perfect but they are very wearable, never-the-less, because the fit is great. I love the feel of the cotton blend yarn from Knit Picks. The socks are so soft and silky to the touch.

If I had them to do over, I would put in more lifelines. I forgot to put one in before I started the heel turn. I must have purled two stitches together because the slip stitch heel didn't line up in the sock underneath. Also, I wouldn't have changed the type of ribbing for the last inch of the cuff. The knit 4, purl 2 was stretchy enough and the density of the cotton keeps the socks up even though the second part of the cuff flares out due to the change in ribbing and the Aloha Cast-off. I will try the sewn bind-off, next time. Hopefully it will not flare the cuff of the sock.

Despite the fact that the yarn was labeled worsted weight, it easily knit up on US 2 needles, 7.5-8 stitches per inch, the gauge for DK weight. With sock yarn, I am going to have to move down to US 0 circulars. They are in the mail and since I have 4-H quilting camp next week, my attention is conveniently re-focused. ;) Guess I have to go back to knitting tawashis.

Another Stretchy Bind-Off Technique

2010-06-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

If you tried my little bag pattern, you may have used the Stretch Armstrong sewn bind-off technique. The above video shows a stretchy knit bind-off demonstrated by Cat Bordhi, a famous sock knitter and novelist. This one provides incredible stretch.

Going Stir Crazy/Sock Crazy

2010-05-31T08:05:00.000-07:00

Since this month has been RAINY, I feel like my spring is slipping away and the heat of summer will break out in full force. I had to have a new distraction to brighten the gray days. Knitting socks has provided the perfect mental focus. I always thought they were way out of my league. All those little needles sticking out and tiny yarn tangling on the tips, how could that be fun?

This whole thing started with a question from my SIL on Mother's Day, "Have you ever knit socks?" My answer was, "No, because sock yarn is usually wool." But, I got to thinking with all the new fibers, surely knitters had more choices, like bamboo and cotton blends. So I went on a quest to find the best circular needles, the best sock method/book (no local yarn shops with classes), and sock yarn in blends less than 50% wool (I have allergies to wool fibers).

I posted an off topic question about circular needles on the treadle owners' list and it just sort of evolved from needles to books on knitting socks. One lady said the best book was The Crazy Toes and Heels Sock Book by Mary Ann Beattie. Her claim that I could knit socks with any yarn in my own gauge and two circular needles, no little needles sliding out and dropping tiny stitches; sold me. I joined the Yahoo help list and ordered the book.

Well, I must say, Mary Ann's method is easy. If you can knit and read instructions, socks are a moderate challenge with a worsted weight yarn. I now feel confident to try my second pair with finer yarn. And, yes, they will match this time. ;)

Digital Swatching

2010-05-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

This tip came to me when I was knitting the swatch above for my next pair of socks. As a sock newbie, I wasn't totally sure how much yarn to buy and I didn't want to break my budget adding new yarns to the stash. Worrying that I may have purchased too little, I didn't want to waste yarn by cutting off my swatch, so I have it on a stitch holder, hooked to the sleeve of the yarn. If I run out of yarn, I can tear it out and use it without having to splice.

The picture of the swatch with the gauge will be added to my digital file on my projects. I am going to make a panoramic shot with a picture of the yarn sleeve, as well.

By the way, the yarn is Blackberry Comfy in worsted weight from Knit Picks. I am knitting on US 2 needles yielding a gauge of 6.5 - 7 stitches per inch. The yarn seems to be a bit finer than some worsted weight yarns and it is a bit less resilient because it is a cotton blend. Knitting on the US 2 needles makes it easy to get a good gauge for socks without knitting too tight on the needles. I just love the feel of the Comfy and it has a nice twist so it isn't spitting easily.

Tribbles and Bits

2010-05-17T12:40:00.001-07:00

You read right! It is Tribbles and bits and not dog food. I have been trying to use up my bits of scrap yarn. Tawashis (Japanese for scrubbie) caught my eye in a Threads blog newsletter. Their instructions were for crocheted tawashis. Since my knitting skills surpass my humble attempts to crochet, I googled for knitted versions. The Tribbles version appealed to me.

If you like the Tribbles, find the complete instructions here:

http://wishingiwasknitting.blogspot.com/2008/02/tribble-tutorial.html

If you like to crochet, find that version for the Tribble here:

http://crochetpatternsonly.blogspot.com/2005_05_16_crochetpatternsonly_archive.html

Now, if you take up using these fun little kitchen sponges, you might like to keep them free of germs. Research shows that zapping a wet cellulose sponge in the microwave for 2 minutes is most effective without using any chemical germ killers. Wet cotton and acrylic fibers can take the heat of the microwave but my sister-in-law tried a plastic sponge and it melted. She now uses only cellulose. Read the about the research here:

http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/news/20070124/microwave-kills-germs-sponges

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_do_you_disinfect_a_sponge_in_the_microwave

M'Lady's MP3 Player Bag

2010-05-17T10:05:00.001-07:00

My MP3 player was residing in an odd sport sock, definitely not a classy case. With my new fascination with sock knitting, I was practicing the Aloha cast-on on circular knitting needles. Using a scrap ball of worsted weight yarn and 10 1/2 US circs, this little bottom up bag sort of magically grew on my needles. It is about 6 inches tall by 5 inches wide.

Here are the general instructions for worsted weight yarn and 10 1/2 US circular needles. Change them as necessary to get the gauge or size bag you desire. Note that an even number of stitches on each needle are required for the decreases and eyelets to distribute evenly.

Using the Aloha cast-on, cast on 8 stitches on each needle. Knit the first round.
Next round and those remaining until you have a total of 22 stitches on each needle: Knit 1, increase one in the next stitch and the next to the last stitch, knit last stitch on each needle.
Then knit even for about 3 inches.
Decrease: Knit one, knit 2 together every stitch then knit last stitch on each needle (12 stitches remaining on each needle).
Knit even 4 rounds.
Eyelet row: Knit 1, *YO (yarn over), knit 2 together* repeating until last stitch, YO then knit last stitch.
Knit even 4 rounds or so then bind off with the Stretch Armstrong sewn bind-off.
Make 2 twisted cords and thread through the eyelets for drawstrings. I started with 3 yards of yarn folded in half for each cord (each cord has 4 strands of yarn).

Let me know if you make a bag! I would love to see it!

Printing Tip for Freezer Paper Patterns

2010-04-21T18:13:00.000-07:00

I am not going to repeat some of the great tutorials on foundation paper piecing with freezer paper or using freezer paper patterns for applique. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. The site below offers a great tutorial on foundation paper piecing with freezer paper:

http://www.twiddletails.com/store/index.php?main_page=page&id=21

Or freezer paper applique:

http://www.lizziebcre8ive.com/applique.asp http://atbquilting.wordpress.com/2008/10/13/freezer-paper-applique/
http://www.cddesigns.com/FreezerPaper/How-Applique.html
http://feeddog.blogspot.com/2008/11/tutorial-freezer-paper-circle-appliqu.html

My main point is to give you a tip on how to print patterns with a laser printer. It is easy with an ink-jet because there is no heat to apply print to the page. The freezer paper can be cut to the size of a standard sheet of paper and printed on the wax-less (non-shiny) side without any problems. A laser printer presents a special challenge because it uses heat.

Here is what to do. Cut a sheet of freezer paper 17 inches by 11 inches (the equivalent of two regular sheets of printer paper side by side, aka ledger paper). Fold the freezer paper in half with the shiny sides facing and insert a sheet of regular paper between the waxed surfaces. If you want to prevent any shifting of the layers, use a warm iron to baste the layers together. Now feed the paper through the manual slot of your laser printer. You can print on both sides before you separate the layers for use.

Have fun downloading patterns to print with a laser printer. You can start with the foundation paper ladybug above. Click to open the larger size, then right click to save it on your computer. The pattern should print a 6 1/2 inch square.

Let me know if you make the ladybug. I haven't had a chance, yet.

The Secret is Out!

2010-03-11T12:30:00.000-08:00

My Aunt Gertrude, Dad's remaining sibling and only sister, celebrated her 90th birthday on March 7th. She lives in Connecticut and I haven't seen her since I was 8. My cousin planned a tea party for her on March 6th. To honor the occasion I made a quilted fabric postcard. The cute cupcake embroidery designs at Embroidery Library were on sale when I made the card so I had fun picking out one for her. Of course, if I could have attended I would have had DDIL make some of her real yummy cupcakes for the celebration.

I have a tutorial up at the WA 4-H site if you want to try a postcard. And check out the patterns for the card stock backs: http://4h.wsu.edu/clothing/quick_projects/list.htm

Now to make a few more for all the special spring birthdays. ;)

Great Giveaway at Tea Rose Home

2010-02-13T13:06:00.001-08:00

Folks, there is a great give away at Tea Rose Home. Sachiko is giving away a kit for her project featured on Ucreate. Check out the great tutorial for this nice looking bag. It is a great spring project or gift.

Disappearing 4-Patch or the 4 to 9-Patch

2010-02-03T11:27:00.001-08:00

The Disappearing 4-Patch or 4 to 9-Patch starts with a 4-patch block with good contrast in colors or shades and tones. The one below was made with 5 inch squares and it will finish to a 8.5 inch block from raw edge to raw edge if accurate scant 1/4 inch seams are used.
Next, make 4 cuts without moving the block or the cut pieces. Use a small mat so you can turn the block without disturbing it. Using the center seams as the reference point, measure out 1 inch and make a cut; then make a cut on the other side of the seam. Rotate and repeat, measuring 1 inch from the center seam for each cut.
Next, rotate only the center outside sections 180 degrees as shown in the photo below.

Sew the sections together as shown in the next two photos to complete the block.

There you have your new 9-patch block. You can vary the look by the width of the cut. This block makes a great charity quilt because it is fast to sew and looks complicated.

This block can be done starting with a 9-patch but using a 4-patch allows one more freedom to get the look desired by varying the width of the measurement from the center seam.

Finally!

2010-01-29T12:49:00.000-08:00

In May of '09, I posted a picture of the quilt I made for my mom:

http://sewwonderful.blogspot.com/2009_05_01_archive.html

Well, the time wasn't right to give it. Mom was packing up a whole house to make a major move. Now, my parents are finally getting comfortable in their new home and it just seems like the right time to present the quilt as a sort of house warming gift.

Wednesday, I embroidered a label for the quilt on my Janome MC10K. Yesterday, I made it into a framed block, and this morning while doing laundry, I stitched it on. I am glad to have the quilt ready to give and my Mom will have to keep the quilt because the label makes it hers! ;)

Carving an Antique Singer

2010-01-13T21:23:00.000-08:00

This slide show demonstrates an incredible eye for detail in miniature. Enjoy!

It's Called Christmas!

2009-12-09T17:05:00.000-08:00

Just had to post this video here. I love popular Christian music with a strong beat. This is fun and so appropriate for the season! Enjoy and share!

Apron Strings

2009-12-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

This cute apron is from Cindy Taylor Oates' Retro Aprons booklet. It goes together fast and looks fabulous! This is the fourth one I have made of that style. This one is going to our favorite waitress at a local Chinese restaurant. Brianna loves to cook and she keeps asking us if we are coming in on the 18th. She said she is making cookies for us.

I am making the rest of the wait staff Christmas pillowcases and one for the owner's daughter, too. You'd think I would have enough fabric in my stash but I just might have to go get some more, always a good excuse to go to the fabric store!

Janome Cover ProCP 1000

2009-11-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

Cool machine! Check out Janome's website for the details on the latest model with new design features and included accessories (extension table, clearview foot, and wide elastic applicator foot).

Easy Peasy!

2009-10-23T18:01:00.001-07:00

When I told DDIL that I made Kool Aid Play Dough for Experience 4-H at the farmers' market on Oct. 3rd. She said she loved playing with play dough but when her mom made it, her sister always got the purple. I just had to make her some grape Kool Aid Play Dough and a pretty vinyl lined bag to put it it in. She and her niece, (her sis's daughter) can play with it. She is visiting this weekend so it is all ready to go home with her.

Practical and Pretty

2009-10-22T17:14:00.001-07:00

I have been meaning to do this project for a long time. This week, the little ironing board it going on a retreat with 80+ 4-H teens and I decided the job just had to be done.

My little ironing board came with a less than adequate foam pad and cover. I saved some foam padded Teflon ironing board covers when we got new covers for the ironing boards at the county extension with the idea one might recycle nicely on the little board.

I traced my ironing board on the Teflon and added 1 1/2 inches all the way around. I centered the original foam pad on the foam side and secured it with zigzag stitching. The old cover just barely fit to keep the new pad in place.

Next, I created a new cotton cover that is reversible and cinched it on tightly. Now, I have beautiful and secure cover that will have fun at camp with the kids. I just love having attractive ironing board covers. They make me smile!

Next project with be a tote bag for the ironing board. I wonder when I will get around to that?

A Quilt for the Fall Online Quilt Festival

2009-10-14T23:29:00.000-07:00

I finished this quilt in May for my Mom and with everything going on with my parents moving and a new grandbaby this summer, I haven't finished the quilt I started in August. Since the quilt was late for Mother's Day, I was thinking about giving it to her on her birthday this month. Well, she is moving next weekend and to save her having to pack the quilt, it is now a house warming gift. I will give it to her in early November.

The quilt was a long time in the planning stages. I found two sets of 6 fat quarters a few years back when I was in grad school. The colors are my Mom's favorite and she has decorated her new house around them.

I purchased the fat quarters with the Yellow Brick Road quilt pattern. I really thought I would make that quilt but the design didn't seem to settle well with me for my Mom. The rail fence design spoke to me and I completed the top with very few scraps remaining from the fat quarters.

If you want to see the quilting details, check out my entry for May 2009. And if you want to see why I haven't didn't get a quilt made this summer, check out June and July entries on the 4-H quilting camps. The kids deserve an look for this online quilt festival.

2009 Portland TOGA

2009-10-13T10:39:00.001-07:00

We had a great TOGA in Portland on Saturday. Mike and Mary Rust were fantastic hosts. The location at Quilting Delights in Clackamas, OR was perfect and the weather cooperated, no rain! What fun seeing everyone and their lovely machines.

Thanks to all who made lunch and all the snacks absolutely delicious. Wish I had a few more hours to spend with everyone and didn't have to leave before dinner but I had a great time visiting with my kids, too. Check out more pictures in my Flickr album.

Combined Boye Needle Charts

2009-09-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

Kevin Pinkerton of Treadle On has just finished a wonderful resource for antique sewing machine collectors. With the help of Boye Needle Case owners, he has made a data base of the information on the the ingenious needle display. The pdf version of his charts are available for download in the right side bar of this blog and at Kevin's online album sites:

http://community.webshots.com/user/kpinkert
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kpinkert/sets/

Many thanks to Kevin and contributing Treadle On members for a wonderful resource.

Pincushions for the Sew Green Fleet

2009-09-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

Last year, at our Sew Green activity at Walla Walla's farmers' market, I only had one pincushion among three machines. This year, each machine will have a pincushion plus one for the filling station.

The brightly colored pincushion at the top of the photo was made for me by Alyce Suzanne on the treadle owners list. She very graciously made me one when my exchange partner failed to come through. Her pincushion is bright and cheery. The pincushion is weighted nicely as it is filled with poly pellets.

The pincushion on the left is made from a Birthday Bash block. I made too many for the exchange so I have to figure out where to use them up. It's a little wimpy. I didn't stuff it enough.

The remaining two are from upholstery samples. In March, my 4-H Super Saturday class was in the home ec. room at the middle school at the end of the block. The teacher had tons of boxes of fabric swatch books. She let me and the other volunteers in my class take as many sample books as we wanted. What fun and a great reward for our busy 2 hour session.

More Coming Attractions

2009-09-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

I have been busy making some thank you gifts. Three special people who have blessed me in the last year deserve a little gift. All three will be a TOGA so I made the gifts all alike. ;

If you need a seasonal grocery tote like the ones pictured, you can download a tutorial at the line below:

Grocery Tote Tutorial

Portland TOGA: Sneak Peeks

2009-09-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

The Treadle On treadle owners are having a gathering in Portland, OR, on October 10th. I am working on some quick projects to share and samples of what vintage attachments can do. My first project is a thread snips basket. This is a handy little scrap catcher for thread trimmings. The shape is reminiscent of a style of ash tray from the 60's and 70's. The tutorial for the project was up at another blog but it appears to have been taken down.

The basket is made from 2 squares of fabric and Pellon Fleece or Warm and Natural Cotton Batting. I used a 12 inch squares as a foundation for my strip piecing, then I trimmed up to 11 inches.

If you want to know how to make this handy little basket, you are going to have to come to TOGA in Portland.

Note: I finally found my bookmark for the tutorial. The freebie had to come down. There was a copyright infringement. The project has another name: Fabric Catch All from Liberty Weaver by Diane Bachman in Leola, PA.

If you want to try a slightly different version of the basket that is free, check out this one:

http://www.free-quilting.com/list.html?criteria=FQ00129&cat_id=434

It is a free download, made from a 12 inch quilt block featuring small blocks in each corner instead of tacking the corner down with a button, and the dart on the side is angled differently to form a straight corner instead.

Pre-wash or Not?

2009-08-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

I generally pre-wash all my fabrics before I use them in a project. Above you see a pillowcase made from a Connecting Threads kit last fall and the one I completed recently. I pre-washed the fabrics in the rose and green version. Since they shifted some in the process, I had to square up and trim off the serged edges. As you can see, there was a considerable amount lost to the prep process.

I will take measurements and see what happens to the more recent pillowcase made from a Connecting Threads kit. Stay tuned.

Note: Test results are in. I washed and dried the pillowcase with a load of laundry. There was no shrinkage. The pillowcase was and is 30 inches long and 21.75 inches wide.

Nostalgia

2009-08-13T16:02:00.000-07:00

I splurged last week and bought kits from Fabric Depot and Connecting Threads. The kits from Connecting Threads arrived on Tuesday. I should have been cleaning house but the lovely fabric was too tempting. I made up one of the pillowcases. The fabric is just wonderful!! It is going to be hard to be satisfied with fabric from the local chain store!

The pillowcase is from the Backyard Friends kit and it is pictured with some pins that I wore in the '60's and a mug a friend gave me in college.

http://www.connectingthreads.com/images/regular/1598_large.jpg

Connecting Threads sent enough that I could interchange the brown with the lime green. The green is now the narrow trim for both versions and I have a pillowcase reminiscent of my favorite colors in high school along with my favorite flower. I think this is going to be mine. I am always giving away the pillowcases that I make but not this one.

Midori, the Japanese New Home head in my Singer cabinet, did the honors. She has to earn her keep if she lives on the main floor. I wanted to enter her in the Sustainable Living recycling contest on Saturday but DH won't be home to help me take her down to the farmers' market to display her. :(

If you are looking for instructions for the pillowcase, you will find a great tutorial for the same method in the Connecting Threads kit at With Heart and Hands. It is known as the magic or burrito style/technique. The seam for the band and accent strip are encased inside the band and then French seams are use to finish the rest. If you don't have a serger or just like professional looking construction methods, this is for you.

The band is cut 1/4 yard wide, the narrow trim is 1.5 inches wide, and the main body of the pillow case is 3/4 yard. I used 1/8 seams inside the French seams and 1/4 inch to encase them. Also, the seam allowance inside the band is 1/4 inch. I like to attach my narrow trim to the front side of the main body with a 1/8 inch seam first, then I fold the band to quarter mark it. I use the quarter marks to match the band when I attach it to the body with the attached narrow trim. Matching the quarter folds and pinning carefully prevents ripples and shifting.

Instructions for a pillowcase with serger finished seams can be found in the Tutorial Links in the right side bar of this blog. Have fun sewing and remember, pillowcases don't have to match your sheets. Make them for holidays, in honor of personal special occasions, and change them to suit your whims.

More Lessons from the New Home 443

2009-08-05T13:40:00.000-07:00

The 5 dollar lesson machine, a Janome 443 straight stitch machine with drop feed, a cool bobbin winder, and a cord and plug to the light was a pesky little beast. I thought after I got the machine cleaned up and lubricated, it would treadle nicely. Well, it did, silently and smoothly. BUT, it would not pick up the bobbin thread easily and if it did, it made birds' nests with the needle thread as if there were no tension on it. The tension worked perfectly, though.

Well, I went over to Yahoo on the Vintage Japanese list and asked what was the problem. Bill Holman suspected a bent cushion spring. Well, he was right but I never succeeded in getting both screws loose to change the cushion spring. Even after Bill suggested swiveling the cushion spring to help turn the screw. But, after swiveling the cushion spring out twice, I made two attempts to reshape it. On the second try, it was a good fit and the machine is now back together and sewing beautifully!! Considering the time I have in on this machine, it has become very pricey. ;)

I will treadle it for awhile in the Singer cabinet with a borrowed bobbin case. I might even make a quilt top on it. Since the machine is short shank side clamper, it will use common feet and accessories, then I will bring it down to the Portland TOGA where it goes to Emily if she can supply the correct bobbin case and a Singer cabinet.

Now, a name for this pleasant stitching machine. Since the machine is a Japanese New Home, two tone green in color, and now a "green" environmentally friendly treadler, she is Midori (Japanese in origin and meaning green).

Hmm, Midori Ito was a figure skater. Maybe this machine will become a graceful free motion quilter. But probably not in my house. But just to show you I can free motion, I free handed my name on a test strip of fabric I used for testing the stitch quality. I must admit, Midori is a charmer and she will be hard to give up.

The $5 Lesson Machine

2009-08-05T13:22:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, DH and I went on an excursion down into eastern Oregon to ride the Wallowa Union Railroad tourist train. Of course I had to work in a junk store, yard sale, and antique store to check for machines. However, I don't seem blessed with the knack of finding machines easily so it becomes work, especially when it is over 100 degrees in the afternoon sun.

Driving through Imbler, OR. We spotted a church yard sale. It was pretty late in the day and there was an over abundance of clothing but I had hopes there was a SM that I could make into a hand crank for one of he 4-H families that would like one for their 6 year old.

Well, towards the end of my perusing, I was surprised to find a two-tone green Janome Streamliner model. I just recently converted one to a hand crank and it made a lovely one so I was excited. A guy overseeing the sale apologized for no foot controller but I just brushed it off and checked it out. It had heavy splotches of dust in places but it did turn reluctantly and the finish looked like it would clean up without any evidence of its past. Without the missing FC and the bobbin case (a pretty standard class 15), I figured I would offer 5 dollars. The guy was pleased and I carried my prize back to the car.

My efforts to locate another SM were not rewarded. I stopped in an antique store in LaGrande. I was pleased to find an older desk-top Boston pencil sharpener. DS wants one. This one is in excellent shape. The suction grip is still very strong and the blades are sharp. He will be pleased. For 8 dollars, it was only one third the cost of a new table-top model.

When I paid for the pencil sharpener, I asked the lady if she had any SM's. She said no but the thrift store a couple blocks over had just gotten one in. She described a Lotus or Singer Genie from the sounds of the case and warned me the shop closed in 20 minutes. We headed over and were disappointed to find that they had closed early. The store was locked and the sign in the window said closed but the hours on annother on the door indicated they should be open. Well, that was a bit of a downer to say the least.

On that note, we called it a day, got some gas and headed home. Feeling still a bit sorry for myself, we ate dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant in Milton-Freewater, OR, on our way into Walla Walla.

Well, now you want to know what the 5 dollar lesson is? Check the clutch knob on the handwheel!!! I easily noticed the motor mount but didn't even bother really looking at the handwheel, I just turned it. The shaft is totally different. I will take some pictures later. To say the least, I have a very nice class 15 head that will probably make a very nice free motion quilter and it has a nice little cord and plug that will work the light. I am intending on putting the head in my Singer cabinet for a bit and then maybe I will bring it down to the Portland TOGA. If I don't find a class 15 bobbin case, the person who wants it will have to supply it. All of my orphan cases have found very nice new homes. Pun intended because I have a couple of New Home Janome machines in the fleet. ;)

Oh, now my Sew Green activity needs to be edited. I need to add specific info on indicators for a standard Singer type shaft.

Another Super Quilt Camp in SE Washington!

2009-07-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

(Click on pictures for a larger image)

Great kids, great parents and volunteers, and great quilts! We had a wonderful camp setting sewing at the fairgrounds. The building is an ideal facility in a beautiful location. What a super spot for the last camp of the season!

Safety Grip Handles for Rotary Cutting Rulers

2009-06-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

We had an accident in quilting camp. One of the adults (I don't allow the kids to use the rotary cutters) sliced a portion of skin off her finger while cutting fabric for the kids' quilts.

The Gypsy Quilter has been offering safety suction grip handles for rotary cutting rulers:

Gypsy Gripper Trio

These are merely dent pullers (the dual suction handle is also sold as a shower grip handle). You will find them for great prices at places like Harbor Freight and similar tool outlets. The whole set will be under 25 dollars.

http://www.toolking.com/category/automotive/auto-body/dentcollision-repair.aspx

http://www.nationalwholesaletools.com/2inchsuctioncupdentpuller.aspx

Buy some for your friends. ;)

Quilts from 9th Annual 4-H Quilt Camp

2009-06-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

(Click on images for a larger view.)

After a few challenging obstacles, 3 campers who missed a day of camp, and one mishap with the rotary cutter, we finished the week with 9 quilts and one quilt top to be completed later in the summer with one of the volunteers (aka the camper's 4-H leader). It is so rewarding for the volunteers, parents, and camp participants to see the results of their hard work and perseverance. A big thank you for all who helped make this year's camp a huge success. Without the helpful hands of parents and volunteers and the donated space at the local Catholic school, we would not be able to run this special program.

If you would like to make the pillowcase, you will find the instructions online:

http://4h.wsu.edu/clothing/quick_projects/Pillowcase2.pdf

For a CD including the complete program guide for the half-day camp program see the link below for details:

4-H Quilting Camp Program

Mom's Quilt

2009-05-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

My recliner is modeling another quilt. This one is for my mom. I have been intending to make her one since I found 2 sets of 6 fat quarters in her favorite colors several years ago when I was in grad school. At the same time, I picked up the pattern, Yellow Brick Road. But having second thoughts about the scrappy look, I decided on a slight variation of the traditional Rail Fence pattern.

In an effort to develop my quilting skills, I worked on creating a new quilting pattern of free form flowers, loops, and leaves over the blocks. My border has vines of leaves and a flower in the center and each corner. You can see I cheated a bit and did some embellishing of the inside border with my domestic sewing machine. ;) (Click on pictures to enlarge for detail.)
Now to get a special signature block made on the embroidery machine. If I don't dedicate the quilt to her, my mom will be asking me in two months if she can give it to someone. She has done that with other things I have made for her. Not that I mind, because I generally make small, practical gifts like placemats and shopping bags.

First Online Quilt Show

2009-04-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

Amy @ Park City Girl is having an online quilt show. Entries are favorite quilts of the contestants. Well, mine is a repeat because this quilt is a favorite. I always wanted to make a quilt from the scraps left from my kids' summer jams and finally, I did it! Here is the Treadle On Mystery Quilt for 2009. The pattern was perfect for my scraps and I had fun making the quilt; so many special memories were sewn into the quilt. Thanks for letting me share!

Signature Blocks and Starch

2009-04-09T12:52:00.001-07:00

Last spring, I participated in a pinwheel block exchange. We were instructed to starch our fabrics before we constructed our blocks. I followed the instructions but had a nagging feeling that starch may prevent the ink from penetrating the fibers of the fabric. Today, I ran a little test. I starched one sample twice with spray starch and pressed it flat. The other was pressed and signed. On each sample I used the same 4 pens, a Sakura Pigma Micron Pen, an Identi-pen, an Uni-ball Signo (a water resistant ink for check signing), and a Zig Ball Pen. After writing, I heat set the ink for 10 plus seconds and then ran the sample under hot running water in a strainer basket but used no laundry products.

As you can see, the starch does keep the ink from penetrating the fibers deeply. The Micron Pen and the Identi-pen did the best in the test so far. Now, I wonder what laundry products will do to the samples.

Sneak Peek

2009-04-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Shhh, don't tell, but I am posting a picture of a quilt I finished for the Treadle On 2009 mystery quilt event. The Mystery Quilt Show won't begin until next week and I used a Janome Jem Gold to construct the top because I made all the kids' clothes on a Janome New Home my DH bought me in 1978 when my T&S Singer 758 gave out when it was less than 5 years old. ;)

The quilt is made from the Hawaiian fabrics purchased for shorts my kids wore in the 80's and 90's (well, one fabric was the apron my daughter made for 4-H). It brings back many memories of happy summers including a week spent on the beach and then another in Southern CA at Disneyland and Sea World.

Well, just for the record, the link to the Treadle On Mystery Quilt Show was posted Monday night (April 6, not April 15 as I thought it would be), so if you want to see the rest of the quilts, visit Olde Treadleonia:

http://www.treadleon.net/oldtreadleonia/mysteryquilt1/mq-finalshow/mq-ri/ri-mq.html

Last Blast of Winter

2009-02-26T15:06:00.000-08:00

I have always said that the weather can change in a blink of an eye in Walla Walla. Last night, I was on a roll. I stayed up until 4 am hand stitching the binding down on a quilt. Sometime after 2 am, I put a load of laundry in the dryer. Our basement felt cold and damp - colder than it was when I put the load in to wash; like a winter fog had just rolled in. When I returned upstairs, I looked out the window in our living room from where I was curled up with the quilt over my lap, no sign of fog.

But soon a heavy slushy rain came pelting down. It was almost hail but not quite. It splattered and started to cover the ground. I stood and watched and all of a sudden, a huge thunder clap broke through the sound of the pelting rain and lightening lit up the sky followed by a sound that could have been a jet breaking through the sound barrier. The sound was so low and close, I almost expected to hear a crash but only silence came and snow fell heavily.

By the time I went to bed, there was probably over an inch of fresh heavy snow. When I woke up to blue skies at 8 am, it looked like there had been about 3 inches. But did the sun last? No! It is now snowing heavily again. There is always a last blast of winter at the end of February in our valley. It brings a cruel halt to the signs of spring and often surprisingly warm days.

And the quilt? The binding is on. I will do a label for it after it is washed. The batting is cotton, I like to see how the shrinkage shows up the quilting.

This quilt top was made on my Sweet 99, Minnie, a hand crank, on Christmas Day. We didn't get to be with family due to snow. I had to celebrate the season by making a Christmas quilt. And, I love sewing on hand crank sewing machines. There is just something so relaxing about the process. I forgot my disappointment over Christmas with every turn my hand made to stitch the quilt.

Postcard Perfect

2009-02-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the right inspiration just happens. Our niece is attending a Journey with Christ retreat. We were asked to send her a card or letter with a special message.

Robin loves Irish dancing, so I spent an afternoon googling for an Irish blessing I could use on a quilted postcard. I found the perfect one and then found a Celtic Sun embroidery design with the symbol of the Trinity looped four times inside. Since St. Patrick's Day fabric is in for the season, fabric selection was easy! Now to get it in the mail. Trips to the PO are not my favorite thing to do.

Sew Funny

2009-02-18T19:48:00.000-08:00

Another:

January, '09, Reader's Digest

In Seattle you haven't had enough coffee until you can thread a sewing machine while it is running.
Attributed to: Jeff Bezos, owner of Amazon.com and Blue Origin

First Quilt for First Grandbaby

2009-02-10T11:07:00.000-08:00

This quilt is a first - first project made on the Davis Vertical Feed treadle (Victoria), first quilt quilted on the HandiQuilter 16, and first quilt finished for our first grandbaby to arrive in June!

Originally, I intended to quilt the top on a friend's machine on a quilting carriage and frame. I tested the set up and loved it!! I decided that a HandiQuilter 16 with their Portable Professional Table was the perfect quilting machine and frame for my needs and space.
I spent about three weeks bonding with my HQ16 and then loaded the baby quilt on the frame. Being a newbie, I didn't do everything just right. Despite the fact the borders were fine when I started quilting, I found I had too much fabric to ease in when I attempted to do them last (after watching Kim Brunner's video, I now know what my error was).

I took out the quilting in the borders and what looks like ruler-work on the HQ16 was actually achieved with individual arcs of freezer paper that I arranged repeatedly to create the rows of scallops. The batting is Soft and Bright by the Warm Company. It allowed me to use a hot iron to position the same seven waxed freezer paper templates on the quilt border. I stitched with a regular sewing machine, following the edge of the freezer paper template. (Note: Don't attempt to iron freezer paper templates with just any batting. You must test the batting between layers of your fabric, first. I have used cotton batting and Soft and Bright with great success for this method of marking a quilt.)
Now to get a label made for the quilt, a job for the Janome MC10K v. 3.

Finished!

2009-01-16T09:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am late but we haven't celebrated Christmas with our family, yet! The snow kept us from traveling this year, so I have had a little more time to get my projects done. I just put a label on a quilt that I started in '01 or '02. I finished the top promptly but the back was not completed until I was in grad school. I finally quilted the project in October of '08 and designed the label soon after but I just finished stitching it down. I need someone to hold up the quilt so I can get some pictures but I thought you would like to see that I really do use a modern wonder once in a while. ;)

Just in case you are wondering, I make a quilt block with my embroidered design. Then I place the block face down on the fusible side of the lightest non-woven interfacing I can buy. I stitch all the way around the block with a short stitch length and trim the seam allowance with pinking shears. I slit the middle of the interfacing so I can pull the block through to turn it right side out. I carefully pull the block through the slit and push out the edges and corners. Then I press the block, interfacing side down, on a Teflon pressing sheet or a piece of paper from paper-backed fusible web. Make sure you remember to use the pressing sheet or the shiny side up on the paper backing. You don't want your quilt label stuck to the ironing board (or your iron)!!

Next, I place my block on the back of my quilt. I use Warm and Natural or Soft and Bright batting by the Warm Company. Even though Soft and Bright is polyester batting, I can press my label on the back of my quilt to baste it in place without damaging the polyester fibers. Then I hand stitch the label in place in three places, each ditch of the seam and the edge. I start on the inside seam and work my way out. The label is secure and looks so cool! Now to get two more quilts done for the other two kids and their spouses. But first to get two tops quilted for the first grandchild to arrive in June.

Scrap Happy

2008-11-18T21:33:00.000-08:00

Did I tell you my Davis Vertical Feed is named Victoria? I named her after a lady on the treadle owners' list who helped me identify her. She sews beautifully and we have been having a blast making potholders. I have tons of strips of fabric already cut from my days as a strip quilter. I also have lots of self-made bias left from the placemats I often make for wedding and housewarming gifts. Along with scraps of batting from quilts, Victoria and I have made a pile of potholders. She applies that binding without a ripple. And I have become a real pro at treadling steadily and removing pins at the same time. Victoria's treadle pedal works well even at slow speeds so that is a big help.

Just call us the happy strippers! ;)

Just so the Pfaff 7570 doesn't feel displaced, I have been zig-zagging the binding down for the last step. The topstitching looks great and is a sturdy finish for the binding.

Converting to a Hand Crank

2008-10-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

I have had many requests for instructions and information on how to convert a machine to a hand crank. This will be brief until I can get up all the instructions and pictures.

For converting, you will need a Singer or a clone with a standard wheel shaft and a motor mount on the outside of the column.

http://www.treadleon.net/sewingmachineshop/motorboss/motorboss.html

The Singer 99s, 185Js, and the 128s are the ideal Singer for portability to events. The kids and adults think the machines are cute but they are 3/4 size, fully functioning sewing machines. They are easy to use and unlike most crank toy machines, they all sew very well. The 185Js are fun for 4-H events because they are green!

The Singer 128s are a long bobbin and shuttle machine. They have a learning curve that goes with winding the bobbin and loading the shuttle. But once mastered, they are superior to the round bobbin models because they don't tangle the threads when cranked backwards and some think they crank easier than 99s and 185Js. Also, the bobbin winder works easily with the larger sized spoked wheel.

The late model Singer 99s and the green 185Js are easily converted to hand cranks with little or no tinkering with the bobbin winder. Early model 99s require an unusual adjustment and a skinny bobbin winder tire but I don't find I need to cut a chunk of metal from the adjustment slot as described in these instructions for converting machines to hand cranks:

http://www.treadleon.net/sewingmachineshop/converting/converting.html

The reproduction spoked wheels and cranks can be purchased for about 24 dollars for a set or 12 dollars separately if you don't need a spoked wheel. The solid wheels on the machines can be notched if you have someone to do the job (see the link above). Some suppliers lap the wheels to make sure they will fit properly but if not follow these instructions (most wheels require lapping so they don't stick on the shaft):

http://www.treadleon.net/sewingmachineshop/lappingwheel/lappingwheels.html

If you find a machine without a base you will need it. The 99s don't have all 4 legs to support them up off the table. Again you will find instructions at the Treadle On site:

http://www.treadleon.net/woodshop/buildingbases/buildingbases.html

The last little change I made was to add a short shank to all the machines that would accept standard clip-on feet. I like to use the straight stitch foot with two equal width toes and a thick fridge magnet for a seam guide. The original Singer feet have a skinny right toe. I like to butt the fridge magnet right up against the presser foot and the larger toe gives a generous 1/4 to 3/8 inch seam allowance plus the magnet does not rub against the feed dogs with the wider toe.

I will later add a link to the download the instructions for the bean bags. The bags were constructed without the need for backstitching. Catherine has field tested them for 12 years. They are sturdy and easily made by children.

You can now find the tutorial for the Sew Green 4-H activity here (the tutorial includes the instructions for the beanbags):

http://sewwonderful.wordpress.com/category/free-tutorials/

Experience 4-H

2008-09-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

4-H spent a day at the Farmers' Market. We had animals, a game table, and hand crank sewing machines. Our sewing project was bean bags. Those stale beans I had made great filler! Many thanks to Mary Reeves for helping me round up the Singer 99s, Catherine (another member of the treadle owners' list) who provided expert advice and instructions, and the local 4-H sewing club, Sew Krafty Kids, for their help and smiling faces. Our Go Green! Sew Green in 4-H was a huge success.

Another Appointment with Dr. Woodwell

2008-09-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

The Davis cabinet and I spent an afternoon with Dr. Woodwell. Other than the fact that I can't repair the chip in the drawer and the damage around the front hinge, and the split is going to be weak point when the machine comes out of the cabinet, Dr. Woodwell did his magic. The cabinet looks so much better.

The Davis Vertical Feed

2008-09-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

I know some of you have been wondering when I was going to get around to posting pictures of the new member of the fleet. My Davis Vertical Feed arrived home safely on Friday night and I have been busy getting her ready for some photos. I haven't found a good spot for the photos so I just snapped some while the cabinet is on the patio for a treatment with Dr. Woodwell.

And Another!

2008-08-04T15:48:00.000-07:00

One of the teens at the first quilting camp was carrying around a cute bag like the one below. I knew I had the pattern. Actually, I had several versions. I printed the one from MarthaStewart.com 200% larger with Adobe Acrobat and taped it together. Then I used the instructions in the Kwik Sew pattern to construct the bag. I like the instructions because the steps are illustrated. The method described for sewing the reversible bag was similar to how I learned to bag a vest lining. It looks like it won't work but it does beautifully! And I like it because the bag turns through an opening in the bottom of the lining. The handles are completed completely before the final turn. This means they are stronger and if you don't want to reverse the bag, you can stitch the opening in the bottom of the lining by machine.

I thought I was making this bag for a gift for one of the teens who helped me with my 4-H Teen Conference class in June but I think it just turned into a sample for one of the Junior Judging Classes for our fair's competition.

If you want the pattern, the various versions are below:
MarthaStewart.com
Sewing Ideas
Singer Sewing Projects
Grab Bag from Fast and Fabulous Quilting Ideas, Favorite Picks from American Patchwork & Quilting,(this version runs a bit larger than the above 3)
Or purchase Kwik Sew Pattern # 3447
(Includes 3 sizes and instructions for construction are quite detailed and clearly illustrated)
View pattern: Pattern View for Kwik Sew 3447

Too Much Fun!

2008-08-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

This whole tote thing is addicting. I am enjoying going through the scraps left from my kids' shorts, looking at old photos to see who had selected the fabrics, and deciding how to use the scraps. Some are not big enough to get a band to go the width of the bag. The bag below makes use of a small scrap of a Hawaiian print fabric. The Volkswagen with a surfboard on the roof is driving away from the beach at sunset. I made the appliqué to resemble the setting sun and put waves along the bottom edge. I once thought I would make a quilt from the scraps but I guess not. ;)

A Tale of Two Totes ;)

2008-08-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

I like to make bags. Go ahead, call me a bag lady. That is what I am.

Since I like to make bags, I took up the challenge of joining in the Think Pink Tote Bag exchange on the treadle owners list. The construction of the bag had to be done on a manually powered sewing machine but the embellishment could be done on any e-machine. I used Stephan, my White Free Rotary to fulfill the treadle's obligations for the straight stitching but the decorative stitches and seam finishes were done with a Pfaff 7570 and a BabyLock serger respectively.

Here is Sharon's bag for the exchange:

The next tote below is a gift for my DDIL in Seattle. I read in a recent news article the stores in Seattle can charge 20 cents per bag issued if the customer does not bring their own. I decided a set of grocery bags were a perfect gift for her birthday. The decorative band of fabric is from a pair of shorts I made her DH when he was in Kindergarten or 1st grade.

The construction was done on Olivia, the Singer Fashion Mate 252, treadled in the Singer 66 cabinet. Again supporting roles were played bythe Pfaff 7570 and the BabyLock serger.

If you want the basic instructions for the grocery tote, click below to download a *.pdf file:
Bag Instructions

Treadling a Singer Fashion Mate 252

2008-07-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

I have a soft spot for old black sewing machines and especially treadles but I must admit when I do something other that piecing patchwork, I want more stitch options. I miss a multi-position needle, zigzag stitching, and a reverse button or lever.

Well, I evaluated my fleet for a model I could try out as a treadle. Here she is: Olivia!

Olivia is a pristine Singer Fashion Mate 252. She has all the features I was missing except a few decorative stitches. And, more control because there is a timing belt that runs the hook gears, making the machine a bit stiffer to run but easier to keep the needle position right where I want it.

Olivia fits perfectly in the Singer 66 treadle cabinet. But now I need to figure out what to use for a mail table??

And, now I have found the perfect Fashion Mate. It is a 258. It takes the flat black Singer cams. I would have the decorative stitches I want. Anyone have one they want to put up for adoption? I take good care of sewing machines. ;)

Pedal Powered Sewing Machine

2008-07-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

This photo gives new meaning to pedaling a treadle sewing machine:

Check out the photo.

See the photo in its full context at this blog on Jakarta:

http://brommel.blogspot.com/2008_02_01_archive.html

Columbia County 4-H Quilting Camp

2008-07-14T17:21:00.001-07:00

Our quilting camps are made possible by dedicated family members, WSU extension volunteers, and members of the Walla Walla Valley Quilt Festival committee. A big thank you to all!!

So you want to hold a quilting camp?
Click here for information about the curriculum.

Another Summer, Another 4-H Quilting Camp

2008-06-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

So you want a CD on how to run a quilting camp in your area?
Just click here for more info.

The Bleeding Pigma Micron Pen

2008-04-23T12:28:00.000-07:00

I am making my blocks for the vintage White owners' block exchange. Being a good student, I followed the instructions and bought white muslin at our JoAnn's. I selected the best quality they have. I made 18 blocks but I needed 24 for 2 sets. I ran short with the yard I had purchased because the fabric shifted when I pre-washed it. I went back to buy more but the clerk suggested that the quilter's white broadcloth was a better choice. I purchased enough to complete my last set.

The noticeable difference in the fabric is smoothness. I am not having problems with the Pigma Micron pen bleeding. At first I thought it was the starch that was carrying the ink but now with the starched broadcloth, I know it is the cotton staple that is the culprit. See the bleeding ink in the muslin block on the left, below:

Click photo to enlarge

For those of you in the White BE, don't get shook about the shade of the broadcloth. It is white like the muslin. The lighting and my camera are playing tricks on you.

Dr. Woodwell Wood Elixir and Twigless

2008-04-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

Today was a pleasant 85 degrees in the Walla Walla Valley. We are finally warming up. Last week was in the 40's and 50's. I figured it was a good time to move the twigless White treadle cabinet out on the patio and try out Dr. Woodwell Wood Elixir.

I had heard wonderful reports about the miracles Dr. Woodwell performs on antique treadle cabinets. Twigless' finish was flaking and gone on top. Other surfaces were not as bad. The veneer was and is marred and chipped.

(Click photo to enlarge for detail)

But as you can see the product does as it claims to remove paint spatters and meld the old finish into one new surface. Where the finish was worn the most, the grain raised and I had to buff it with steel wool to even out the wood surface. It is lighter in those spots but still the results is worth the effort and fun to show off.

Fun Art

2008-04-11T00:25:00.001-07:00

Check out the sewing machine and other pictures by this talented and unique artist, Don Stewart:

http://www.dsart.com/Gallery/sewing_machine.htm

Lots of detail and fun objects hidden in the drawing. Some of them are sewing related and some are not. He has an interesting bio:

http://www.dsart.com/artist.htm

Enjoy!

Miryam, the Obstinate Singer 66 Tiffany

2008-04-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

I have had a diversion from the pressing details of getting ready for TOGA and my trip to Shipshewana, IN, for the advanced sewing machine repair class. I guess I tend to create diversions when I should be focusing on due dates. A bad habit that I used to get house cleaning chores done when I was in grad school. ;)

Well, this is what has been sidetracking my attention, Miryam, the obstinate one:

Miryam has Tiffany decals. I used to think that all Singers with decals with red in them were "Red Eyes" but when I went looking to see what the Tiffany style looked like, I recognized my own Singer 66.

This machine has been in my husband's family for years. It was on the family farm and his sister said she sewed on it when she was young. Al's dad says the machine belonged to his dad's half brother. They think it was Shorty's mom's machine because Al's dad remembers his mom had a White treadle.

Miryam has a production order date of May 3, 1916; not really an old machine for a treadle. My Lorelei, a White Rotary is older.

Miryam has been the most resistant of all the vintage machines I have worked on. Most anything that should turn didn't or did so with great effort. The handwheel is still cemented on the shaft but I can wind bobbins. I worked the bobbin winder by hand until all the parts functioned as they should. I am planning on getting some Kroil penetrating oil in hopes that it will work on getting the handwheel loose.

I have given up the notion that I will swap the presser foot bar out for one that will take ordinary side clamping presser feet and attachments. The screw that holds the presser foot bracket on the bar is stripped. If I can't get off the bracket, I won't be able to lift it up though the hole in the top of the machine. I am disappointed because I really want to use all of my Singer attachments on Miryam and do free motion quilting with the foot I bought from Cindy Peters. I guess I will just have to find another Singer treadle for that. ;)

Honoring April 1st Traditions

2008-04-01T11:55:00.000-07:00

I know some of you just can't bring yourself to buy an old machine that treadles or handcranks. If you don't have the skills to repair them, they are going to cost a bit to get up and running if you have to check them in at the local quilt shop or sewing machine store for repairs. That is a big consideration. ;) Perhaps you need to consider this TOL machine at QuiltersWarehouse:

http://www.quilterswarehouse.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=AFE2008#

This machine will definitely not clash with any modern machine you may have in your collection!!

See the other amazing April specials here:

http://www.quilterswarehouse.com/storeitems.asp?Bc=AFE

Happy April 1st!

Meet Dora!

2008-03-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Dora, the Yukon handcrank, joined the fleet on Saturday, March 22nd. This little Yukon had been listed on craigslist several times. I finally decided to try for it despite the fact that the front slide plate was severely bent and stuck open. We met Judy, the owner, at REI in Seattle to check the machine out. The little machine appeared to be in very good condition with no rust. I decided it would be a good purchase and brought her home. All of my consultants say this machine has the look of a badged Davis. I checked out some photos of Davis handcranks and I concur.

Dora had been a gift to Judy, so the name which means "gift" seemed appropriate. Also, being a Yukon and purchased at REI plus being so cute and dark, who wouldn't also think of the cartoon character, "Dora, the Explorer".

With a little coaxing, the slide plate came out and was easily flattened on a cement floor with a hammer. I padded the slide plate with a piece of wool. There is no damage to slide plate and it works as easily as the rear plate.

Dora has a shuttle that looks new and 2 bobbins. The bobbin winder is very cool!! She also makes a beautiful stitch. I guess she needs to make some blocks for TOGA, too!

1/4 " Foot for Piecing

2008-03-18T22:00:00.000-07:00

Well, the verdict is in! I just finished doing a set of TOBE blocks for the Treadle On Birthday Bash. Minnie did her share with the 1/4" foot I purchased at JoAnn's (find the foot with the White sewing machine attachments). The results is just perfect! I would highly recommend the foot if you own a machine with a standard low shank ankle. If you can't find the version on a hinged ankle, you will need to get the snap on type to accommodate the foot. I already had a few of those around from the Kennies and Janomes I own.

Sewing on the Road

2008-03-12T22:39:00.000-07:00

Awhile back, I posted a link to a young fellow who takes a treadle out into the streets to repair clothing for folks. He operates in LA or San Francisco. Here is a site showing an African who is an itinerant tailor repairing a zipper with a hand-crank sewing machine on the back of a bicycle:

http://www.lamachineacoudre.net/archives/afrique1.html

Simply Charming!

2008-02-27T12:24:00.000-08:00

I called a friend last week and she said she was making a bag with charm squares. We are supposed to be doing a trunk show of bags, purses, and cases for our CTA group sometime this year. Not to be without my version, I googled charm bag and found some pictures for inspiration. Here is one:

http://www.quiltedvine.com/pics/dec/charm.jpg

Then, I sorted some 4 inch charm squares that I have had from a fabric swatch club I joined in the late '80's as a results of my first visit to the famous quilt shop in Sisters, OR. The only squares that sort of coordinated in any way were the country red, white, and blue fabrics. There were enough to do half square triangles that I made up into six 6 1/2" scrappy pinwheel blocks. With a few more scraps of fabric left from a project in a quilted jacket class I took in the spring of 1980 at Patchwork Peddlers in Portland, OR, I had enough fabric to complete my project.

The results is a small quilted tote embellished with buttons and yo-yo's made with the new Clover yo-yo maker (60 mm. size). Not exactly in 'now' colors but with denim, it would be casual country. ;)

Minnie had the honors of piecing the pinwheels but my Pfaff 7570 finished up the quilting and sewing. I just didn't think I could quilt and crank at the same time even if I only did in- the-ditch quilting. ;)

Note: A free tutorial for this tote has been added to the Tutorial section on the side bar.

Minnie's First Project

2008-02-21T23:15:00.000-08:00

Minnie and I were going to make Birthday TOGA blocks for our first project but we took off on some scraps that turned into Tissue Pack Covers. They are quick and easy but very professional looking with a lining that looks like binding on the outside. I even decided to see how the Singer Zigzagger attachment worked for finishing the two end seams. It wasn't worth the effort to put it on. I decided a pinked seam finish was adequate for the project.

Conversion Complete!

2008-02-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

Minnie, the Sweet 99, I rescued from the rain is now a handcrank sewing machine. She is in a beautiful oak base made by my son-in-law. The base is higher than recommended by the plans at Treadle On but my desk is lower than normal so it really is perfect to sew on with no stress to the arms and shoulders.

Parts for the conversion came from Cindy Peters and the instructions for converting to a handcrank are at Treadle On. The instructions show how to make an adjustment to the bobbin winder so it will work perfectly with the handcrank. Notice, I retained the light on the 99 by cutting the cord at the connection to the motor and adding a plug. I want to re-wire the light with a longer black cord but that is in the future. The rings that hold the light together are a bit tricky and they require special pliers to reposition.

I intend to make the next set of blocks for the Birthday TOGA exchange on Minnie. I purchased a foot at JoAnn's that promised a scant 1/4" seam allowance and a fit for my standard snap-on ankle. The foot snapped on but the first test I did was to watch it feed fabric without guiding it. The fabric didn't want to feed straight. At first I thought the feed dogs needed aligning or the presser foot bar was askew. Before I tinkered, I tested the standard Singer straight stitch foot. The fabric traveled in a straight line. It is the design of the foot that causes the fabric to go in a curved path.

I won't give up on the foot if it produces a scant 1/4" seam allowance. Stand by for test results. :)

I dare you to ask me to mend! ;)

2008-02-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

I need to have this on a 'frig magnet:

"Asking a quilter to mend is like asking
Michelangelo to paint your garage."

Do you think they would sell?

Great Looking Drawstring Backpack

2008-01-23T21:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a great looking backpack to make with your young sewers or for teens to sew on their own. Lots of creative options for fabric and color combinations:

http://www.hopeyoder.com/shop/item.asp?itemid=187

It has two sizes so don't overlook the pattern thinking is it just for kids!

Another Thread Catcher

2008-01-21T19:49:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to making the Lorelei a thread catcher. I didn't put a pincushion on it because I have been using my magnetic one. I should have put a pocket for my small scissors on the tile, instead.

If you like the thread catcher, see my December 12, 2007, entry for more details on where to go for the general instructions. I used a 4 inch tile so all the measurements were 33% smaller than Jane's.

TOGA Birthday Blocks

2008-01-21T13:35:00.000-08:00

I am testing my fabrics for the 2008 Seattle TOGA Birthday Blocks. I had better get going on these. I want to have enough to exchange with everyone at the TOGA and perhaps a few of the TOBE's so I will have enough blocks to make a good sized lap quilt. I like to be warm and skimpy lap quilts just aren't practical! ;) Let me know if you think I need to get a darker signature block fabric. I prefer the slightly marbled effect over a solid.

I am making my blocks on the Lorelei, my White Rotary treadle. They are coming out right on, a perfect 4 1/2" by 6 1/2". I guess I won't need a template to cut the blocks from larger block.

Disappearing 9 Patch

2008-01-13T21:06:00.000-08:00

I used the disappearing 9 patch for my baby quilt on the Lorelei. It is an easy and fun method for sewing both planned and scrap quilts.

The disappearing 9 patch quilt block is made from a 9 patch block that is split both horizontally and vertically and sewn back together as desired. There are many possibilities for planned quilts but as a scrap quilt, the blocks are great stash busters.

Check out the tutorial here for the pattern in a scrappy look:

http://quiltsatcs.blogspot.com/2007/04/disappearing-9-patch-tutorial.html

There are other possibilities below:

http://weetoesandnoggins.blogspot.com/2007/05/my-first-doll-quilt-i-actually-finished.html

http://maggi.typepad.com/photos/quilt_stitches/9patch.html

Check out more examples from this link (I love the red and black one by Sara):

http://www.webshots.com/search?query=disappearing+9+patch&new=1&source=chromeheader

Have fun experimenting!

Patchwork Pedaling

2008-01-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

The Lorelei is up and running! I started a baby quilt to bond with my "new" machine. Learning to treadle and actually sew something is a little like learning to sew again. The quilt top has some imperfections that probably would not exist had I used my little Janome Jem Gold but considering, I think I did a pretty good job. ;)

I have to admit, I did use an old White Rotary 77 e-machine for about 25% of the work. I have my treadle on the main floor but my pressing station is downstairs. When I wearied of running up and downstairs, I set up the 77 for some of the piecing.

A Name for the White Rotary

2007-12-18T20:17:00.000-08:00

The White Rotary has a name: Lorelei! She has already demonstrated her ability to call out and draw other treadles to her shore. I know the machine isn't made in Germany but I think she has a sturdy beauty like the rock she has been named after and she has a song she is singing to attract other machines like the fair maiden of the legends.

Yesterday, I remembered I had seen an ad for a treadle on craigslist in the city where I am headed to celebrate Christmas. I looked it up and there in living color was another White treadle in an oak cabinet. The price was $25! I emailed and asked the seller if I would be able to see the treadle the day after Christmas. He said, "Yes!" I can't believe it. The ad just expired tonight and I can't even link to it.

Lorelei's condition is much improved. I can now remove the needle and change presser feet. Also, the knob that adjusts the presser foot pressure is working. I have cleaned more green-brown lacquered oil off the machine. I think she will do more than sing. I found a nearly local source for reasonably priced treadle belts. Three are on their way. I should have them by the time I am back home from celebrating with family.

The New Member of the Fleet

2007-12-16T11:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I made another trip to see a treadle. This one was in a better place for viewing. We didn't have to stand in the rain to lift up a plastic cover. ;) A bit of history; I saw this treadle go up on craigslist on Tuesday. I asked for contact info and called the guy. I asked about some things that Katie Farmer recommended. She is the White guru on the Treadle On list. I was assured despite the missing oak plug next to the slide plate, that the cabinet was refinished and the machine would sew. The present owner had bought it from someone who was intending to sew on it.

When I saw the machine, the present owner said he had bought it as an intended gift for a relative but discovered she really wanted a Singer treadle. He found one and decided to sell the White. He said that the White had come up from CA with the previous owners. When he called, he got the husband and found out he knew nothing about the machine being for sale. Seems his wife had posted the ad without telling him. I guess he was a little irritated because he was working on the machine in hopes of sewing with it.

Now for some pictures. I have the machine on my workbench so you are just going to see the head. I will take more of the cabinet and irons later.

Okay, I know, this machine head is not going to win a beauty contest, but, hey, I can't afford anything in this area that might. Well, the truth is, I haven't been able to find much in the way of treadles in this part of the state. And besides, the handwheel and the working parts turn so easily. The handwheel just spins when I give it a good pull. I am really hopeful I can sew with this working wonder. The guy I bought it from wanted to sell it to someone that wanted it for its ability to sew. I think I was that someone. Now, I just have to get the tension right and do some more cleaning.

Back to the work bench. I haven't been able to get the presser foot off and there is a stubborn screw in the throat plate that is resisting me. Oh, I have to think of a name for this machine, too.

Scrap Catcher

2007-12-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

This project makes a nice gift for a sewing friend. You can find the instructions for the project if you join the following Yahoo list: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SGOTs_SewingBeeSite/files/

The project instructions are in: Thread Catcher Sewing Bee

Here are my notes on the changes I made:

Jane's Thread Catcher

Can use 2 fat quarters but a third accent color can be used for a band around top of bag.

One tab to attach scrap bag with a button: 3" by 6" sewn in seam of cover for tile (fold strip into quarters with right sides out, topstitch and make a pointed tab, may zigzag stitch part of tab together to form a smaller opening for the button.)

For heart pincushion, trace heart shape on one of two fabrics. Make a buttonhole in heart that will be on the bottom (interface for more stability). Cut open. Sew around heart shapes with a 1.5 stitch length. Trim seam allowance with pinking shears. Stuff firmly. Whip stitch buttonhole closed. Hot glue or Velcro on covered tile. I have been told the new heat fusible Velcro is very good.

I got 4 6-inch square tiles for 1.96 at Home Depot. I also tried the 4 inch tiles but made my bag smaller, too.

Here is a tip: If you can't slide the padded tile in the fabric cover easily, cut a piece of plastic wrap or shopping bag just big enough to go around the covered tile and then slide it in. Pull the plastic out after you have the tile in the cover.

Another from a friend: Use fusible vinyl to line inside of bag. Your threads and scraps will fall to the bottom more easily.

What Kind of Flower are You?

2007-12-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I am not much into gardening but I took this quiz and I am a daffodil. The flower is me! So what are you?

I am a
Daffodil

What Flower
Are You?

Operation: Machine Rescue

2007-11-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

Meet Minnie: A 99K from Kilbowie, Scotland

Minnie joined the fleet from Kennewick, WA, on November 17. She was outside in an open trailer with a sheet of plastic for protection from the weather. It was pouring down rain and she was keeping company with a Free brand treadle in an oak #5 cabinet. If I had the space for both machines and was sure I could restore the Free, I would have taken both machines. The lady who listed them on craigslist did not have room to store them inside. But, my Subaru could only hold one cabinet and I knew this sweet 99K would easily clean up to make a nice hand-crank for sewing blocks for the 2008 TOGA in Seattle.

Below, you can see some of the dust and rust that had accumulated on Minnie. I still need to do a bit more cleaning but Minnie is sewing smoothly and handwheel operates easily. I just need to order a hand-crank and spoked wheel plus a spool pin from Cindy Peters.

Meet the 4-H Forum Fleet

2007-09-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

Since we sponsored Ray White's sewing machine repair class, I have been busy collecting old zigzag machines in need of tender loving care for one of the 4-H Forum classes I will be teaching in Pasco, WA, in October. These machines were all in need of a thorough cleaning and lubing at the least, but some truly had repair issues. I picked up parts from e-bay stores and machines that came without other necessary part. Tips and encouragement came from the wonderful folks on the sewing machine repair lists at Yahoo.

The first machine I found came from one of our thrift stores. I was looking at it and the manager saw me. He said it had been in the store too long. He wanted it gone for $10. I figured it was a deal because the machine was an older Singer and looked to be functioning just fine. I only had to lube and clean up this fine simple zigzagger and he was ready to run. Meet King Leo, The Spartan (aka Singer 327K):

The next two machines came from two other thrift stores in town. I wanted to find older machines that had zigzag capabilities. This would make them more versatile for 4-H because they could be used for seam finishing and applique. I tried to stay away from the machines that I knew had non-metal gears but I couldn't resist this Singer because it ran so quietly and came with everything including the instruction manual, a rare find when buying old machines at yard sales and thrift stores. Meet Vinnie, a Singer Stylist 513.

Andy, a Singer 401A, was hiding out in a cabinet at the third thrift store. He had no cords or foot control plus the stitch selector was jammed and a thread guide was broken. The cabinet was optional so I offered 5 dollars for him and left the cabinet. I knew I had some work ahead of me but I figured parts and cords were somewhere on the internet. A fine lady, who also hosts Ray White's classes in Lake City, MN, had just what I needed to get this guy in shape to sew. I have yet to put on the thread guide but he has cords and a foot control and even a brown suitcase for travel.

Andy has a twin sister that I found at a yard sale. I paid more for Carrie but she had some decorative disks and a foot control that works fine despite a crack in the exterior. Cindy provided the cord for her, too.

Another lucky break came at a yard sale. I found a Singer 600, aka Eddy. Eddy needed some work on the bobbin winder, his one design flaw. Someone had not replaced the bracket properly that holds the bobbin in place as it fills in the machine. The bobbin would jump and the machine would jam if I forgot to wind the bobbin a very slow speed. I shamelessly gleaned a tip from the Singer man with a booth at our fair. Also, Terry's TnT site offered some vital information, too. Here is Eddy showing off his working parts:

Stay tuned! There are 5 more great machines ready to go to 4-H Forum.

Sewing Tutorials

2007-07-24T12:03:00.000-07:00

Blogs and Flickr are great places to post tutorials on quick projects. Kerri has a great lined pouch with an easy exposed zipper up at Flickr. She has a contest going at her blog for anyone who completes one of these easy bags. I couldn't resist making one but I just had to try putting the zipper off to the side. I think this style would make a great pencil case with grommets so it could be inserted in a notebook. If you try one with grommets, be sure to use interfacing to reinforce the area where the grommets will be.

Sewing in the News

2007-07-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

I like to see sewing in the news. It brings honor to our art and craft when some see little value with what can be accomplished with the most humble of sewing machines.

See what this young man does with a treadle sewing machine in a needy community:

ABC7 Salutes Michael Swaine

Great pictures here:

Michael and his machine at work

Sewing Machine Repair

2007-07-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

I just had the opportunity to take one of Ray White's 3-day Sewing Machine Repair classes. We had a small class of extension volunteers and one costume maker (engineer?) from California. Ray is a fantastic teacher and the class was well worth the fee. We had the opportunity to learn basic cleaning and maintenance procedures such as timing and feed dog adjustments that will allow us to keep any mechanical or computerized machine in good running order. Some of our class members were able to complete some challenging repairs that would have given even experienced technicians a run for their money.

2007 Quilting Camp Photos

2007-06-19T20:30:00.001-07:00

We have eight quilts in the works. One pillowcase will be made after the quilt top is done.

June 22, 2007

Here is the result of our handiwork. Our group of girls worked hard. The queen/king is just beginning to get pinned. The back is pieced using scraps to make up for insufficient amounts of a single coordinating fabric. We didn't have time to get a picture but maybe that will happen when we finish pinning and tying. One of the girls had to leave but grandma stayed in camp so they will finish their quilt later in time for fair.

MA Thesis/Project

2007-05-30T23:49:00.000-07:00

Abstract:

After school hours are when youths are most likely to commit crimes or become victims of accidents. After-school and out-of school program providers keep youths occupied during peak hours when working parents are unavailable and youths are at risk. 4-H has been a successful provider of after-school and out-of-school curricula that actively engages youths and develops character traits essential to maturity and positive contributions to society. The review of literature and pilot studies for this paper demonstrated a necessity for fiber arts related project materials that: 1) appeal to youth; 2) are designed for completion in limited time frames; 3) include opportunities for character development; and 4) reinforce skills and learning within typical academic subjects. This paper and resulting curriculum project reflect the need for curriculum materials for after-school and out-of-school program providers in the area of fiber arts and clothing and textiles. 4-H and Extension audience experience was background to development of the Fun with Fabric curriculum guide. This curriculum for after-school and out-of-school programs was produced on CD-ROM in full color and includes nine projects with related assessment tools for skills documentation.

MA in Apparel, Merchandising, and Textiles

2007-05-30T22:54:00.000-07:00

This spring has been a bit crazy. I guess I knew it would be. On March 23, I defended my thesis at WSU in the AMT dept. It was one big day with the morning devoted to WSU's Academic Showcase and the afternoon presenting my thesis/project to faculty and friends.

My capstone project is a curriculum guide for 4-H after-school clubs in the area of fiber arts and sewing. The guide provides comprehensive instructions for 9 quick and easy projects plus additional activities for community service and leadership. The guide is on CD-ROM in full color.

We have the quick projects up for download at the WA 4-H site but in the near future the CD will be offered for sale. Proceeds will cover production and postage plus a contribution will be made to our state 4-H foundation that will go to the 4-H Clothing and Textiles Committee.

Graduation was on May 5. I had the privilege of meeting Deborah Vandermar, the first distance student admitted to WSU's AMT dept. I am most likely the last. Too bad! I think both Deborah and I would say that it was most advantageous to be able to do our master's from our home and remain employed and in touch with family. I hope to see others have this opportunity.