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Starting a fabric store...suggestions? posted by Madam Wu

I am buying an existing fabric store's assets and relocating it to my city. I really would like to set things up to please fashion and home dec sewers. The store sells mill ends and designer fabrics. So far, I know we want to also serve costumers and plus size sewers. Any suggestions or comments on what you like or dislike in a fabric/sewing supplies store would be appreciated!

Last post by Nancy K at Sat 17 May 2008 02:58:02 PM Total posts: 19

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BWOF 06/08 posted by SarahSM

Maybe this has been posted in one of the message threads, but the June preview is up with all the styles.

Here's the link.

Last post by Nancy K at Sat 17 May 2008 02:51:00 PM Total posts: 3

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MY Pattern Contest (Official Thread) posted by Debbie Cook

Welcome to the Official Thread for the 2008 MY Pattern contest!

RULES:

Objective: A finished garment made from the participant's own design and/or original pattern.

Definitions:

"Block": In this context a block is defined as a basic pattern which fits the individual. A block (or sometimes called a "sloper") does not have any design elements.

"Pattern": In this context a pattern is a derivative of the block or draping process used to create the final garment, or is the result of original drawing if a block or draping is not used.

"Draping": In this context draping is the art of manipulating fabric on an individual or a dressform to achieve the desired garment. A draped garment may or may not originate from a block and it may or may not result in a paper pattern.

1. This contest is open to all members (free or FoPR) who have been members for at least 90 days prior to the start of this contest. 90 days = member since April 2, 2008 or earlier. Those who vote for a contest winner also must have been members for at least 90 days prior to voting.

2. This contest will run from June 1st, 2008 to July 31st, 2008.

3. Blocks can be pre-existing and can be from any source, including a commercial fitting shell such as McCall's 2718 and blocks generated from pattern software. See limitations on pattern software below.

4. If a pattern is used, the pattern must be entirely the participant's own creation. Pattern can be derived from a previously created block (see definition above). Pattern should not have been copied or morphed from a commercial or someone else's pattern. Even if you are inspired by some designer's design, you have to still create your version of it. All cutting and sewing and pattern creation (or draping) will be done within the two months the contest is running.

5. Pattern can be created by any method - such as measurements, draping, flat patternmaking, or Computer Aided Design. If using a computer to draft, CAD computer programs are allowed only as a manual drawing tool and as a subtitute for pencil and paper. Shortcuts to add seam allowances, markers or rotate darts, for example, are allowed but no programmed (via macros or program options) or non-original pattern pieces or design/style elements are allowed. Please ask the contest manager (Debbie Cook) if you are not sure if your process will be allowed.

6. One entry per person. An "entry" may be one garment or a coordinated outfit.

7. A WIP (work in progress) review should be started for each entry (either public or private) documenting the entire process, including photographs of the block (if used), the draping in process (if draping), and the finished pattern pieces (if pattern pieces were created). It's understand that you'd rather spend time designing and sewing, but the documentation will be educational for all and will also help decide who the winner is. Plus it's a good journal entry for you too.

8. When the garment(s) is/are complete, three clear photographs (front, back, side) of each completed garment in the entry should be added to the review. Photographs should either be on the person for whom the garment is designed or the dressform.

9. Winners will be deteremined by reader votes. Voting will begin on August 2nd and end on August 12th.

10. Prizes: TBD

A Sidenote: All of the contests on PR are based on the honor system. It's hard to judge an entry for fitting because it all depends on how good the photograph is. And yet, since we all strive to achieve the best fit we can with each of our projects, it's important to remember that if you follow the rules and be true to yourself, you are the winner, no matter what.

=====================

Contest Links:

Contest Report

Contest Gallery

Tutorial for How Contests Work

-- Edited on 5/17/08 1:15 PM --
-- Edited on 5/17/08 3:39 PM --

Last post by Marji at Sat 17 May 2008 02:45:25 PM Total posts: 4

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Choosing the right size posted by Mariel15

I'm about to make Butterick pattern 4800, and I'm having alot of trouble choosing the size. My bust measurement (36.5") would fit size 14 , my waist (32") is size 18 , and my hips (39") are between 14 and 16. This size difference has been the bane of my adult life.

This top is supposed to be flowy over the midsection, so I would hate if I choose the smaller size to fit my bust and hips, and it ended up being tight over my stomach. What would you all do?

Last post by Nancy K at Sat 17 May 2008 02:32:28 PM Total posts: 3

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Should I wash and dry fabric first? posted by Mariel15

I am about to attempt my first from-scratch, machine sewn garment. What I'm wondering is if I should wash and dry the fabric before I start cutting, so that the finished garment doesn't shrink in the wash. However, if I do that, what if it shrinks so much that there is not enough to cut out all the pieces?! I hope this isn't a dumb question. :) I'm not really sure what kind of fabric I have...it is woven, and I guess it is cotton.
-- Edited on 5/17/08 11:31 AM --

Last post by Nancy K at Sat 17 May 2008 02:28:24 PM Total posts: 13

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Get more into your Sewing.

Look what I found today--on my way home today, I followed an Estate Sale sign-- posted by agnesiam

found a Singer 501, very good condition, in sewing table w/orig book, lots of attachments--woo, hoo! I didn't have any cash on me, so I asked if he'd hold it while I went to an ATM. Here's a really quicky pic I took---I love it!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v327/agnesiam/501.jpg

I don't know how to include a pic...

Last post by mufffet at Sat 17 May 2008 02:26:02 PM Total posts: 12

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A great foot to add to the collection posted by fixedgearhead

I just bought a #10 edge-stitch foot for my Aurora 430. This foot is a godsend for adding topstitching to arm holes and side seams, and yoke seams. I had been using the blind hem stitch foot but it didn't let me use it with the needle to the right of center, and necessitated turning the clothing piece around to sew it on the opposite side of the garment. It will be useful if you have a needle swing to both right and left. If you only have a needle swing to the left, it will still be useful, but the blind hem foot will do just a well. I love it when I find a special foot that makes it easier to accomplish what I am trying to do.
-- Edited on 5/16/08 7:46 PM --

Last post by mufffet at Sat 17 May 2008 02:23:17 PM Total posts: 8

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Value of New Home Janome machine posted by angrychicken

This is a green sewing machine in a cabinet. It says model 5302 but all I have found online that looks like it is 532 (no zero). So Im guessing this is the same one. Im trying to find a value on it. Can anyone help?

Last post by mufffet at Sat 17 May 2008 02:20:17 PM Total posts: 6

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Drtiz Fray Check Vs. June Tailor Fray Block posted by lehighalums

Well, in my typical, over the top style, I decided to make cloth napkins for my little side sewing business (totally for fun!) - I figured 90 napkins would be enough to add to my website. Now I have 90 napkins with edges that need to be "sealed". I bought Fray Block and it's nice because it's not as stiff, but is it as strong/long-term as Fray Check?? Fray Check can be scratchy, so I just thought someone out there might have done this before and could help! I certainly don't want 90 double sided cloth napkins to get ruined!

I was wondering if anyone has used this for serger rolled edges and if I could try to use the fray check - a little dot on the edge, then use the fray block for a little more security on the threads?? Thoughts?? Thanks in advance!

:confused:

Last post by Brillig at Sat 17 May 2008 01:11:51 PM Total posts: 5

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Green circle under my name posted by sewuptight

Any idea what the new green circle means under my username? I notice it when I post messages.
Thanks.

Last post by bestgrammy at Sat 17 May 2008 01:06:58 PM Total posts: 4

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Fabric Fast: 2008 posted by popoagiesmiles

Having just realized how fabric I have and how much money I don't have as a result, I had a realization:

No matter how good a deal is, if you don't truly need it soon, you're just giving away your money and creating more maintenance for yourself, and the money and time won't come back. The fabric vendors will have more sales. Right now, I just don't need any more fabric.

So....

I have decided to go on a fabric fast for a whole year, using only what I have with the following exceptions (since even with food fasts, most people drink water and may supplement with juice or not cut out everything:

1) If I cannot complete a garment without a lining fabric that I absolutely can't cover with my stash, I can look for a deal and do it. But, I can't do it too far in advance, can only do it for one garment at a time, and I must follow through before making any other purchases.

2) If I need a notion for a garment that I'm committed to make SOON, I can get it, but only for one garment at a time, and I can't get any more until that garment is made.

3) If I need a pattern for a garment that I'm committed to make SOON, I can get it on sale, but only for one garment at a time and only for every fifth garment.

4) If I am truly committed to making a garment type that I have no suitable fabric for, such as a swimsuit or a bra, I can do it. But, only for every seventh garment. No buying just because I like the fabric and someday would like to make it.

5) After every tenth garment I sew, I get a ticket to spend $50 on sewing supplies, whether it be fabric, notions, patterns, equipment or whatever. I can save this or spend it. I will probably save it for the really good sales.

6) Basic sewing machine maintence is not included in the fast, but new equipment is. Gifts from others are allowed, of course.

7) I must do something sewing related each week for a minimum of the time I spend on sewing-related sites that week.

I must otherwise make garments from what I have and avoid spending time on sewing sites without actually sewing. I have enough interfacing, fabric, thread, zippers, buttons, patterns, etc. that there is no reason why I can't make several SWAPs with what I have and very few supportive purchases. And, I have enough time to sew if I cut back on time just talking about sewing.

Anyone want to join me? If your stash is smaller than mine or your time much more and you fear you wouldn't have enough fabric to get through a year, you can do it until your stash is gone.

This may simply save me money and time. Or, it might get me sewing. I don't propose a contest but simply an HONEST supportive dialogue.

Last post by slanden99 at Sat 17 May 2008 12:55:21 PM Total posts: 1133

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Bernina Deco 340 & Downloading Designs posted by margeh

Just bought a Deco 340 and like the machine. However, have found to download designs need design format EXP+. The "+" indicates that in addition to the EXP stitch file there's also a BMP graphic file and INF color information file. I have found different sites that offer EXP but few that offer EXP+. Do any of you Deco owners have suggestions? Also, would like opinions on software available for use with this machine. I'm not very "techy" so would have to have something really easy. What software are you all using? Do I need software to download patterns and maybe change to EXP+? Thanks for any suggestions :winkgrin: Happy Sitching!

Last post by badgerfan at Sat 17 May 2008 12:54:49 PM Total posts: 3

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home dec book posted by dvmcindy

Hey, can anyone chime in for a VERY good home dec book, for mostly curtains that has EXCELLENT lined curtain instructions.
Thank you!!

Last post by Kathi Rank at Sat 17 May 2008 12:44:59 PM Total posts: 3

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Sewing in Europe posted by Tez

If you'd like to chat, share sources, talk about patterns etc etc, please join in!

Last post by Orsi at Sat 17 May 2008 12:44:20 PM Total posts: 95

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Hat/Glove leather sources posted by xenophea

I've been working for months on a hat for DS. I think I've finally got the muslin perfect after only four tries and I'm ready to get the leather that he wants the final version made from.

I was planning to get kidskin from fabric.com, but now that I'm ready to buy, they only have it in raspberry.

So, I'm looking for a source for kidskin, lambskin, or any other type of leather for suitable for making hats.

Can anyone help?

Last post by xenophea at Sat 17 May 2008 12:42:21 PM Total posts: 1

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Info for a White Model #1666? posted by dkm458

I just found one of these for sale for $55. The owner says it's all metal gears, good construction. I can't find any info online about this model. Does anyone have any information about it?
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-- Edited on 5/10/08 8:35 AM --

Last post by bestgrammy at Sat 17 May 2008 12:41:40 PM Total posts: 14

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Mini-Wardrobe Contest - May 1 to May 31 posted by pterion

Welcome to Pattern Review's first (and much-anticipated) Mini-Wardrobe Contest, which will start on May 1 and end on May 31. This is the first of two mini-wardrobe contests in 2008. The other will be held during the month of August.
This contest is open to all members (free or paying) who joined Pattern Review prior to February 2nd 2008 (90 days prior to the start of the contest). Those who vote for a contest winner also must have been members for at least 3 months prior to voting.

Official Mini-Wardrobe Contest Rules

This is a contest to create a 4-piece wardrobe in 4 weeks. Those pieces should fit one of the following three frameworks:

1) 2 bottoms and 2 tops - 1 may be a jacket

OR

2) 1 bottom and 3 tops - 1 (no more than one) may be a jacket

OR

3) 1 bottom, 1 dress or jumper (overdress), and 2 tops - 1 may be a jacket. If a jumper is made, it should go with both tops (i.e., function as a bottom). If the dress option is chosen, it need not be worn with the other garments in the wardrobe, however it should tie to the rest of the wardrobe in theme and possibly be compatible with the same handbag or shoes or accessories.

All pieces must coordinate with each other.
Patterns may be new, never sewn before, or TNT (tried and true). Self-drafted patterns are fine. Patterns may be drafted, tweaked, and muslined before the contest date, but fabric for the pieces entered cannot be cut till the start date of the contest (May 1).

Each entry must be presented as a collage or composite of all garments included in the wardrobe. It is suggested, but not mandated, that participants draw up a storyboard and post it as a WIP that can be followed, updated, amended, etc during the contest.

Final garments may be pictured on a dress form or worn by the garment's intended owner. Please consult with the contest moderator if neither of these is feasible for you, and options will be discussed.

Any individual piece entered into this contest may be simultaneously entered into another contest as long as it meets criteria for both contests.

This wardrobe/ensemble may be created for men, women, or children. Sorry, doll clothing is not admissible.

Accessories, while they may be made and showcased with the wardrobe, are not a part of this contest.

Swimsuits, while wonderful, are not considered admissible to this contest. Workout wear is admissible within the above parameters.
-----
ETA: Clarifications
You may submit more than one contest entry, however each entry must be four, and *only* four items. While many participants may be planning to use these four garments as part of a larger coordinating wardrobe for themselves, the choosing of just four items that coordinate well together is one of the particular challenges of this contest.
-----
Winner: To be determined by popular vote. Official voting criteria will be posted at a later date, but will be based on (and these are listed in no particular order): Wardrobe versatility (is it wearable and do pieces complement each other well?), garment construction/ skill of design and craftsmanship, designer creativity, and presentation. Voting will begin on June 1st and end on June 10th.

Prizes:One first prize: A Sewing Machine sponsored by Greenberg and Hammer. Also, the first one to complete and review the mini wardrobe will receive a PR Button and a Pattern of their choice.

Contest Links

Contest Report

Rules

Photo Gallery

Entry Form

Entering Project to Contest

Add a Pattern Review

Contest Tutorial

Composite Photo Tutorial This is a tutorial for using a Microsoft accessory called Paint (for those using on Windows computers).

Some other links for storyboard tutorials:

Sherril Miller's SWAP Storyboard tip

This Storyboards thread has links for tutorials.

Click for links to angie.a's Paint.net tutorial

SigridNL's Powerpoint tutorial, and

ChrisS' Photoshop tutorial

Options for Macintosh users (and I am one!): You could try the Powerpoint or Photoshop tutorials above, if you have access to Mac versions of those programs.
Cidell mentioned a software in the pre-contest thread called ComicLife which you can read about and download a free 'unhindered' 30 day demo here (sorry no storyboard tutorial available for it that I know of).

I'll be updating this post as necessary as clarifications will undoubtedly need to be made :)
I'll try to answer your questions and address your concerns as quickly as I can. I've been really impressed at the level of excitement this new contest has generated! This is my first time as a contest manager but as some of you may know, Pattern Review now has a Contest Committee which determines the rules for contests and if there is question I can't answer myself, I'm sure I can rely on their expert guidance.

Good Luck to everyone!

-Terry (aka 'pterion')

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-- Edited on 4/22/08 10:03 AM --
-- Edited on 5/8/08 10:43 PM --

Last post by Meggie LuLu at Sat 17 May 2008 12:41:20 PM Total posts: 262

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Vintage Bathing Suit posted by Cat MacGregor

I've been trying to find a pattern similiar to this bathing suit for a while and had no luck. Then I though someone here might know where to find one.

Vintage style - one piece - with straps - has skirt or short effect - separate bottoms underneath

Similiar to this: Vintage Bathing Suit

Last post by PopoAgie at Sat 17 May 2008 12:36:58 PM Total posts: 6

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Hello Phoenix! posted by SewbeHappy

Are their any sewing buddies out there? We all have people who we call our friends but not all of us have sewing friends close to home. Is there anybody in Phoenix who gives fitting lessons? I really need the help! Other than that I think this is a great forum to meet sewing friends, so how 'bout it? Anybody in Phoenix who loves to sew?

Last post by SewbeHappy at Sat 17 May 2008 12:30:15 PM Total posts: 39

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Just purchased my first Burda pattern posted by halleyscomet

All these years I have never owned a Burda pattern. I just bought my first pants pattern. I am so anxious to see how they compare to the other pattern companies.

Last post by Cidell at Sat 17 May 2008 12:27:32 PM Total posts: 20

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