PatternReview.com : Sewing Message Board feed

URGENT - PR WEEKEND 2012 - CHANEL(like) boucles posted by MarinaVK

Dear Members, PLEASE RESPOND ASAP if you want to shop for CHANEL(-like) boucl?s on discount during the PR weekend.

I am organizing store visits for you and the owner of the best store in NYC for CHANEL and other designer boucl?s asked me yesterday whether at least a small group would be interested in buying fabrics for Chanel-like jackets from a small stock she is willing to offer ON A GOOD DISCOUNT.

We have a visit planned to her new store anyway, but she can bring fabrics from her old store, which was damaged by fire one month ago. All fabrics in her basement storage are gone due to the fire, but the fabrics she had on display on the ground floor are not damaged, although they may need dry cleaning (smell etc). She is willing to sell those at a good discount but needs to bring them over to the new store we will visit. Since she has to make arrangements for this I need to REPLY THIS AFTERNOON whether we are interested. I know this is a short notice, but the offer is very good if you are looking for unique materials for your Chanel-inspired jacket.

IN the new store she has boucles and a few gorgeous silk prints from the newest collections, which she bought during her visit to Europe last week. Those are regularly priced and start at $80 up to $260 per yard. It is definitely expensive, but worth consideration for anyone who is planning to work on a couture garment, and especially a Chanel-jacket.

By the way, if you ever took Susan Khalje's French Jacket class - this is the main store where the class shops for fabrics. I got some pictures of the fabrics and the store in my class review, on my blog

Last post by MarinaVK at Wed 16 May 2012 10:32:13 PM Total posts: 12

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Necchi Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

Bernina 630/635 posted by Warbler

I know the 630 embroiders... I wonder if it comes with embroidery unless you opt out and get the machine only.
I have been pricing the 630... there are only 2 Bernina dealers in Vermont. One has lost their autherization to finance and offer machines beyond the 3 or 5 Series machines. That smaller dealer is very expensive... I don't see how they stay in business. My dealer is high volume and really the only full service dealership in the state. Their prices are much better but still sticker prices are high. I think they are willing to deal... I am not quite ready to get the 630/635 as I need to save more money and sell a few items.

So really my question is what should I expect to pay for machine only and how much more is embroidery. I have seen prices ranging from $3000 trade in with embroidery to 4400 with embroidery.

Last post by Sonoma33 at Wed 16 May 2012 10:34:01 PM Total posts: 48

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Sewing Machines at PatternReview.com.

making a bolero/short jacket from a reg jacket pattern posted by guillorypr

So...I want to make a bomber jacket bolero. I found a pattern that would work with some design alteration. That part was...easy. The hard part I am having now is in the armscye. I made a mockup, it fit okay except that when I tried it on, my friend says that she doesn't like the way the whole jacket moes up when I move my arm. Other than that, the jacket fits fine. I say the jacket is going to have a lot of movement because the side seam is only about 4 inches long, there isn't a lot of fabric there so the fabric movement will seem larger because there is less of it. Does that make sense?

She has linebacker shoulders, and she is complaining the armscye is too tight. This isn't a fitting problem I have and I don't really know how to correct it. The pattern is a princess seam. Do I just "scoop" out from the armscye and add in the sleeve cap?

THANKS!!!

Paulette

Last post by guillorypr at Wed 16 May 2012 10:55:30 PM Total posts: 4

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Brother Sewing Machines, Sergers and Coverstitch Machines at PatternReview.com.

Do most refurbished machines come with all their parts? posted by Butter Bean

I'm thinking of buying a refurbished Singer Quantum 500L from internet sales usa. I'm worried that it might not come with all the parts or have some cosmetic damage. They state on their website that it will have everything. It will come with a new warranty from singer. Has anyone dealt with this company before. I looked them up on BBB they have no complaints against them. I don't know if I should take the chance or not? they have a 30 day exchange policy if machine is defective ( no refund only online store credit if not happy). They don't really have anything else I want. Any input would be helpful.

Last post by Marie367 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:13:17 PM Total posts: 40

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Kenmore Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

Vintage Singer Featherweight question posted by ukdame

OK, its been about 4 years and I yet have to find my dream machine at the right price. Is the 221-1, 221-2 the only ones out there. What accesories should it come with. I know the original carry case is a must. I doubt I would use it much as I have other machines but the Featherweight would be my display baby, once LynnRowe helps me polish her up. How much is too much is too much to pay for one? :winkgrin:

Last post by Warbler at Wed 16 May 2012 11:14:47 PM Total posts: 3

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research BabyLock Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

doing a bookbag posted by Amores

:winkgrin: im i am doing the pattern number 1823 for a bookbag but now im stuck on the part were i have to add the zipper it says" ON OUTSIDE, pinclosed zipper to upper edge of front band, having the zipper face down? i know that to u guys its very clearn what its saying but to me im lost. :( please can someone help me understand this please...

Last post by Amores at Wed 16 May 2012 11:16:36 PM Total posts: 1

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Viking Sewing Machines at PatternReview.com.

Stash Sew Along posted by jannw

Now that the Stash Contest is over, several of us have decided to continue to sew our stash. If you didn't join the contest and are interested in "de-stashifing" for any reason, please join us.

The contest offered motivation, a goal to reach, which at first seemed to be unobtainable, a chance to try new patterns, the impetus to start a long planned for project, and the opportunity to do so in good company.. I know I increased my skills by sewing everyday, used patterns that I've had for years and never tried, learned some new techniques, dusted off some old skills, all the while making room or new stash.

If you would like to join in, I would only ask that you check in periodically, let us know what you are sewing and how it is progressing. This way, we can all continue to be inspired and motivated.
Other than that, there are no rules. Stash is what you, personally consider it to be-it has no age limit- sew what you want to sew at your own pace. If life intervens, as it will, do not feel guilty-take care of things, and come back to us when you can.
If you participated in the contest and need time to get your sewing room, home and family back in order, do so, and join in when you are able.

If you want to set personal goals, post them here and we'll cheer you on, give advice and encouragment, and keep each other motivated.

I will be sewing in the One Pattern Contest starting today and using some of my stash for that. I'm using a piece of stash fabric for my basic, unaltered version and have several more versions with stash planned.
My goal for the coming year is to sew 10 yards a month. I did 20 a month for the contest and that may have been a little to much for even my minimal housekeeping skills. I like having stash and intend to keep buying, but hopefully more varied pieces. I need more knits and less silk! But I would like to reduce what I have to a more managable level.

That said, please join in..I need company to keep on track!
Jan

Last post by katlew03 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:17:30 PM Total posts: 12497

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Shop for Burda patterns at PatternReview.com

Where do I find this fabric? posted by LeahDD

I just got the July 2012 issue of Threads magazine and I want to make the blue striped dress featured on the cover. Where do I find that EXACT fabric? OK. If that exact fabric isn't findable, how close can I get? I've looked around a little on the internet and I can't find it. But surely it is out there, right? Thanks for any help with this.

Last post by LeahDD at Wed 16 May 2012 11:33:00 PM Total posts: 4

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Pfaff Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

PR Weekend 2012 - New York City posted by Deepika

Click on the logo above to see more details on the event.

--- REGISTRATION CLOSED ---

Already registered? Grab a badge for your blog

Submit your Bio by March 25th for the booklet!

Printable "Member Cards" to give out to people at the event

Need a Roomie? Refer to the e-mail you got when you registered for the event. There is a link to the spreadsheet there.

Show your PR Love ToteBag Contest!

I know that everyone has been waiting anxiously to find out where the next PR Weekend will be. I have some news for you! It'll be NEW YORK CITY!!!!

I know that many of you chose San Francisco for next year but there is an event in SF next year which clashes with our dates (weekend after mother's day). This event brings tens of thousands of people to SF and it would have been a nightmare to plan anything during that time.

So we have to pick a different city. And what's more exciting than NYC? It has the 3 Fs! Food, Fashion and Of course FABRIC! So, who's with me? Lets rock the city shall we?

I've created a poll to help us plan. We'll need a host and some volunteers to bring it all together.

Are you IN?

Update 4/30/2012
PR Weekend 2012: New York City
Program of Events

Thursday, May 17
7:00 ? 9:00 pm Registration and packet pick up in lobby at Four Points by Sheraton

Friday, May 18
7:30 ? 8:30 am Registration and packet pick up in lobby at Four Points by Sheraton
9:00 am ? 5:00 pm Shopping in small groups
10:00 ? 11:00 am Simplicity offices tour Group A 261 Mad Avenue (between 38th and 39th), 4th floor
11:00 ? 12:00 pm Simplicity offices tour Group B 261 Mad Avenue (between 38th and 39th), 4th floor

(Lunch and Dinner on your own)

Saturday, May 19
8:30 ? 9:00 am Arrival at Pace University at One Pace Plaza: Lecture Hall South, Left Lobby
9:00 ? 9:15 am Welcome & Introduction of Committee
9:15 ? 9:30 am Overview of Weekend & Opening Remarks
9:30 ? 10:45 am Kenneth D. King, couturier (Part 1)
10:45 ? 11:00 am Break
11:00 ? 12:30 pm Kenneth D. King, couturier (Part 1)
12:30 - 2:30 pm Lunch on your own
1:30 - 2:30 pm Pattern Exchange, One Pace Plaza: Lecture Hall South, Left Lobby
2:30-3:30 pm Diana Rupp, Make Workshop, Q&A and Book Signing
3:30-3:45 pm Break
3:45 ? 4:45 pm Jill Ralston, Fabulous Fit Dress Forms
4:45 ? 5:00 pm Closing Remarks
6:00 pm Dinner at Tony?s Di Napoli at Times Square

Door prizes and Tote Bag Winner

Sunday, May 20 11:30 am Optional: Circle Line Cruise; Semi-Circle Tour.
-- Edited on 4/30/12 1:23 PM --
-- Edited on 4/30/12 1:24 PM --

Last post by MissLadyAudrey at Wed 16 May 2012 11:33:21 PM Total posts: 624

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Shop for Burda patterns at PatternReview.com

Sewing Down Under posted by Mel.J

I created this new thread - the name sounds a bit like an underwear sewalong but I couldn't think of anything better.

:D Mel

Last post by brissie71 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:33:22 PM Total posts: 30964

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Bernina Sewing Machines at PatternReview.com.

Adding a Link to a Review posted by katlew03

I wrote a review that contained only minimum information because I just needed to enter the item in the One Yard Contest and had made the same item and reviewed it several times previously. Another member asked for directions so I tried to add a link to my previous review. I have done this in the past w/o problems. I editted over and over and still the link would not appear-- only the a href information. When i clicked on the "add a link" symbol, I obtained the URL but there was no way to copy and paste it. When I tried, there was no "copy" or "paste" anywhere to access. So, I copied it down on a piece of paper, and it was exactly the same as what I'd typed in. What am I doing wrong? I finally had to copy a section of my previous review and paste it into my new review.

Last post by katlew03 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:34:00 PM Total posts: 1

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Shop for Kwik Sew at PatternReview.com

Making table linens and napkins posted by kimmienguyen

Hello everyone!

I'm looking into making table linens and napkins for events as a side business. I know my home machine won't be able to handle the volume so I'm looking for something more industrial and faster.

What sewing machine and serger would you all recommend I buy? I have a budget of $2000-$2500.

Thanks in advance y'all!

Last post by diane s at Wed 16 May 2012 11:34:08 PM Total posts: 5

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research your Sewing Machine at PatternReview.com.

baby/toddler footie pajamas posted by sky

I'm looking for new pajamas for my little boy. He was fitting really well into the Carters snap up footie pajamas, but he's outgrown the 9 month size. Starting at 12 months, they are only zip up and the non flame resistant ones have really tight arms and legs that look uncomfortable. I don't really mind the zip as it is definitely easier, but it doesn't seem to fit as well over his bulky cloth diapers. I certainly don't want him sleeping in flame resistant chemicals.

So.. I'm looking into making some. If I'm good about not wasting his nap time I can get it done. I do want him to be comfortable and sleep!!

Does anyone have any pattern suggestions? My son is long and lean and our nighttime diapers are pretty bulky (bumgenius stuffed to the gills). I have the KwikSew Sewing for Baby and they do have a pattern in there.

I've thought about 2 piece pj's but I'm worried that the shirt will just bunch up under his arms as he moves around, and that the pants waistband will curl under his diapers and wick. I want to do all I can to keep him from waking up unnecessarily as he already wakes up plenty. :)

Thanks everyone!

Last post by TanyaMT at Wed 16 May 2012 11:35:12 PM Total posts: 4

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Take a PatternReview.com Sewing Class today.

eBay Rant.... posted by 1975Jumby

Some sellers just irk me......there's a Babylock Ellagante on ebay right now and I just thought I'd inquire about it since the stitch count was SOOOO low. I also asked if they were the previous owner. Here's what I get back "The machine is being sold because another machine was bought in its place so this one is not needed anymore. This is a steal of a machine." Not quite answering my question, but whatever.

So, then I ask if everything that initially came with the machine according to the manual is still there. And here is what he says, "Everything should be there. If something is missing it is something small." Seriously?

This irks me about as much as Craigslist sellers that take a picture of the sewing machine cabinet (not the machine itself) and say, "hasn't been used in years, but runs perfectly!"

Weird thing is, this seller puts up these expensive machines all the time. I kind of wonder where he gets them, to be honest.

Last post by PattiAnnJ at Wed 16 May 2012 11:35:37 PM Total posts: 7

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Read Sewing Machine Reviews at PatternReview.com.

Funny Sewing Machine Review posted by Pj3g

I remembered I read this hysterical review over a year ago and suddenly thought, I should post it for PRers to enjoy.

Dissapointed
Reviewer: Julie, 07/20/2010

I took it out of the box and tried to thread the needle. I sewed my finger to a piece of fabric. I tried to pull my finger out of the head and ripped the fingernail clean off my finger. After finally getting my bloodied hand out of the machine, I ran toward the kitchen to rinse my hand, and tripped over the foot pedal. I fell down and broke my nose. Blood was streaming out of my head. I tried to get up but felt light-headed and passed out. I awoke to see my husband towling the mess off of my face and hands. I'll never sit in front of a sewing machine again. Everything goes to the dry cleaner to be repaired.

I came across Julie's review while on the hunt for an inexpensive mechanical SM for my DIL. Her review is on the Singer Talent 3323S. Despite Julie's horrific review I ended up buying it because it was what I was looking for, and was pretty to give as a gift. BTW, it sews beautifully and makes a great first machine.

Last post by Marie367 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:36:23 PM Total posts: 25

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Necchi Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

Not really new to sewing, but new to a lot of techniques posted by friendscript

Which is I guess the long way to say I've been sewing off and on for years but have stuck with stuff I know how to do.

Now, I'm trying to learn a lot more! At the moment, I'm going with something simple, a wrap that's made with only two pieces (Simplicity 5252, view C).

However, I somehow always find a way to complicate things. I dug through my stash and found this fabric that I could not resist, although at the time I had no idea what I'd make... but now I realize that after cutting out the pieces, I have absolutely NO idea how to sew it and make it stick together! It's a loose knit of very fine gauge yarn, but I bought it off a bolt at a fabric store in Louisiana several years ago. Help, please?

Pics here:TealSweaterWrap

Last post by PattiAnnJ at Wed 16 May 2012 11:39:31 PM Total posts: 5

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Read Sewing Machine Reviews at PatternReview.com.

Bernina vs Pfaff posted by laura7

I've always loved the feel and stitching of the older Berninas and for many years sewed with a 1530. NEVER should have sold it! I am now piecing with a Bernina 1010 and am happy with it, but it has few decorative stitches, and I would really like to have a buttonhole stitch for a little applique. The Pfaff Ambition 1 or 1.5 have caught my eye. They are so much more affordable than a new Bernina. I could get a used Bernina for about the same amount of money, but part of me thinks it would make more sense to spend the money on newer electronics than a 15-20 year old machine. Do any of you use either of these Pfaff models for machine quilting, or have switched from a Bernina to a Pfaff? Can you tell, lol, that I just want to go out and buy a NEW machine?! :-) Laura

Last post by threaddy at Wed 16 May 2012 11:45:44 PM Total posts: 9

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Sewing Machines at PatternReview.com.

So excited! My mother in law bought me a new Singer L-500... posted by brckhous

Ordered it from Amazon, and it should arrive before the weekend. I can't wait to try it out.

Last post by Sonoma33 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:48:02 PM Total posts: 2

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research BabyLock Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

Accessories for Coverstitch Machine posted by Klunky

If I get a coverstitch machine, which accessories will help the most to make knit tops: hemming on sleeves & hems? Is it a foot, or a fabric guide? Must I use a binder for the neck finish? I have a binder for my sm and have never used it. I have attached bias binding on knits without a binder on my sm, but I wouldn't give my work an A+.

Last post by threaddy at Wed 16 May 2012 11:51:05 PM Total posts: 17

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Bernette Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.

One Yard Challenge posted by ConnieBJ

Welcome to the May Challenge Contest! Sarez will be your Contest Manager for this quick, two week contest. We made this contest a spring weather friendly one- it will likely use fabrics and ideas you already have lurking around!
Get your scissors ready!

"One Yard Challenge"
If you have ever purchased just one yard of fabric just because it called your name, purchased just one yard of fabric because it was too costly to buy more, or hung onto that last yard of fabric left over from your project -then this contest is for you.
During this contest, participants will create an item using just one yard of fabric. Use your creativity to design something with one yard of fabric or choose an item from the popular books "One Yard Wonders" and "Fabric by Fabric One Yard Wonders" . A quick Google search will also yield a multitude of ideas for you.

Contest-Specific Rules:
1. Contest Start date: May 1, 2012
2. Contest Completion date: May 15, 2012.
3. Only items made from no more than one yard and no less than 1/2 yard may be entered into this contest. (1 yard = 91.44 centimeters)
4. Lining may be used and will not count towards the one yard of fabric.
5. Trims may be used and will not count towards the one yard of fabric.
4. Multiple entries are allowed.
5. Any fabric type may be used.
6. Fabric widths up to 60" wide may be used.

Examples of Allowed items:
* Adult clothing items such as skirts or tops
* Children's clothing items such as dresses, pants or tops
*Wearable items such as aprons or hats
* Craft items such as items such as pillows or totes

Examples of Disallowed items:
*Any item that uses more than one yard of fabric.
* Any item that uses less than 1/2 yard of fabric.
* Any item that uses a combination of more than one yard of fabric, such as a colorblocked skirt that uses two different one yard pieces.
* multiple items that use one yard of fabric. (ie 6 bibs that together use one yard of fabric will not be allowed)

General Rules for all Contests:
1. All reviews must be entered for submission by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the last day of the contest.
2. Patterns MAY be muslined prior to the start of this contest, however, fabric for contest garment may NOT be cut prior to the start of the contest. Fabric may be pretreated before the start of the contest.
3. Items intended for sale, or for which you were or will be paid to make, do not qualify for any contest, but items made for charity are welcome.
4. Unless otherwise stated in the rules, all reviews written for a contest entry must include a picture of the entry, preferably on a live model.
5. Interpretation of rules is subject to the discretion of the contest manager and the contest committee.

Contest Eligibility:
1. Any member of Pattern Review, either paying (FoPR) or non-paying, who's been a registered member on the site for 90 days prior to the start of a contest is eligible to enter.
2. Any member of Pattern Review, either paying (FoPR) or non-paying, who's been a registered member on the site for 90 days prior to the end of a contest is eligible to vote in a contest.
3. Any member who's won first place in a contest on Pattern Review that ended in the previous four-month period is ineligible to win another contest (during that four-month period). For this contest, first place winners from the following contests are NOT eligible to win:

RTW Contest End date 4/30/12
Vintage Contest End date 4/16/12
Swimwear Contest End date 3/31/12
Red Dress Contest End date 2/29/12
Menswear Contest End date 2/15/12
Jeans Contest End date 2/15/12
Fabric Stash Contest End date 2/1/12

Guidelines for Voting on Contests:
Because of the high quality of the garments we're seeing entered in PR Contests, we're setting forth some guidelines that may help you choose when voting.
1. Consider how well the entry fulfills each of the following criteria in order to narrow down your votes.
2. How well does the garment fit the criteria stated in the contest rules? How well does it fit the spirit of the rules?
3. Are the construction methods, including but not limited to seam finishes, lining techniques, etc, well suited to the design? To the fabric?
4. Is the fabric choice well suited to the design?
5. Is the review complete and well written?
6. Taking into account the stated ability level of the entrant, how well does the garment fit?
7. Creative points. You may choose to give extra credit here for an entry that reflects additional creativity (embellishment) while only using one yard of fabric. [does this make sense? The point of this contest is to not stray far from the original intent of the pattern but to be able to put one's personal stamp on the pattern.]

Prizes Sponsored by:

First Prize:
Threads Archive DVD

Second Prize
Fitting DVD Set
-- Edited on 4/30/12 11:02 AM --
-- Edited on 4/30/12 7:59 PM --
-- Edited on 4/30/12 8:00 PM --
-- Edited on 5/1/12 12:15 PM --

Last post by katlew03 at Wed 16 May 2012 11:55:16 PM Total posts: 159

Visit PatternReview.com to read this entire topic.

Research Euro Pro Sewing Machines and Sergers at PatternReview.com.