12 Days of Christmas - Day 3 December 27th 2017

Ansley

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is: take your time and don’t rush. Rushing makes for easy mistakes!!

Leslie

December 27, 2017

Favorite tip or trick: When sewing doll clothes, I cut patterns out of different fabrics and work like an assembly line so that multiple garments are finished at the same time. This is a must with 3 granddaughters waiting for their dolls new clothes.

Clarissa Moore

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to never skip pressing. It may seem unnecessary but the finished project always looks and functions much better if you just press the seams!

Pat

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip: After downloading a pattern, I like to trace my pattern pieces using “stitch and tear”.

Janet Simmons

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing trick is to sew with family or others. My mom, sisters and now even my daughters and nieces all come over for sewing Sunday and we all craft together.

Chrissy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to use chopsticks to help turn out corners.

Rita

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to reduce the stitch length when sewing curved areas

Sue

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make sure you start your new project with a clean machine.
There is nothing more frustrating then the machine not working right. Put new needle in make sure the bobbin area is free of lint.and the machine is threaded right.

Mollie Wood

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to pass on your knowledge to young people. Let them be involved in making decisions in fabric and patterns, etc. If you don’t have a young relative to pass it to, find and young person who is interested in learning. Pass it on!

Patty

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to have all items organized in one area before I start. Read the pattern and put together all accessories needed in a plastic bag so They’re at my fingertips and I don’t have to search or run to the store. I also take a picture of my finished project and file in a binder along with notes I have made on the pattern during construction.

Elizabeth

December 27, 2017

One of my favorite sewing tips is to always iron seams as you go. It makes everything look so much better!

Judy H

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to have that darn pin cushion within eyesight at all times!!

Mariana Lamas

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to sew at night after my little ones are sound sleep. It allows me to get things done without the distractions during the day.

Marge R (mer)

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to purchase a box of Freezer Paper (costs about $5) and sheets on roll are 18" wide. Cut 11" pieces and then cut each piece @ 8.5". You’ll get 2 sheets with just 1" waste to print you pattern onto. I then put my sheets under a large book to flatten them well and when ready to print my pattern I put these into my printer tray and print directly on the non-shiny surface. Cut out your pattern pieces and iron the shiny side onto your fabric – no need ever for any pins and the pattern piece is ready to be used over & over again! Store your pattern pieces in 8.5″ × 11″ page protectors and organize by either type or designer or however easier for you to locate when you want to re-use. Once printed (since I have so many patterns), I put PRINTED in the name of the pattern right on my computer so I know it’s already printed/cut out & stored for re-use.

Judy Bean

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is widen seams from 1/4 inch to 3/8 or 1/2 in things like quilts and anything else that may be used a lot. I saw it as a hint for making kids quilts. Works well for adult bed quilts too.

Beth L.

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to make a trial run of a pattern using inexpensive fabric or repurposed fabric BEFORE I cut out really expensive fabric for the same pattern. While it does take a bit more time, the lessons learned can save making very costly sewing mistakes.

Fran R.

December 27, 2017

My best sewing tip no matter how experienced you are, choose a fabric that has the same drape as the suggested fabrics or it won’t hang the same. If you are experimenting think of how you want the finished product to hang and choose a fabric that will hang the same. I always roll out a bit of the fabric from the bolt, then make a fist and drape the fabric over my fist. Is that the ‘hang’ I want? This method isn’t perfect but will help eliminate some fabric choice mistakes.

Sherri

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is- I always pin the pattern on the doll to make sure no adjustments need to be made before cutting out of fabric. This assures it fits just like you want it to. The 18" doll you are sewing for may not be the same size as the pattern the designer made it. Also, be creative with the trims, buttons, and other accessories. This will make it an outfit to be saved and passed down generation to generation.

beth d

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is when sewing a corner seam for a collar is to do 2 diagonal stitches and then trim closely to square the corner. When is turned right side out, the diagonal stitches give the seam allowance room.

Nessie M.

December 27, 2017

Sewing tip: When trying to turn a narrow doll belt or strap right side out, try to place the sewn end over the opening of an empty pen barrel and gently push with a wooden chop stick. It turns easily to right side out and saves the aggravation of attempting it other ways.

candy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to cut many outfits out and store them in the stack and store containers I found out about from Cinnamon’s organization classes.. When I have a an hour I can grab a box, work on the outfit, and if not done but it back in the box to store it away. I was able to bulk buy the boxes on line.

Carol

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip or trick is to share your love of sewing with a young person – it is a skill they will use and it is a bond of love!

Debi

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to be organized and clean up your sewing space at the end of the day.

Lisa

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is always press as you sew!

Ms. AGdoll

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to always follow the pattern/directions exactly for the best results!

Emily barkman

December 27, 2017

My favourite sewing tip is using the 1/4” foot for perfect seams!

Marsha

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is using a mini doll sized ironing board to press the tiny seams.

Samanthadolls

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is that the seam ripper is your best friend! Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s nothing to be ashamed about. Thank you for hosting this contest!
~Samantha agdollawesome.com

Karen

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is as I have several grandchildren I am making doll clothes for(as well as my own) I cut out numerous pieces(fronts,backs,etc) and then assemble them all at the same time. Then each finished outfit goes into a gallon size zip lock bag with the intended childs name on it. When birthdays or special occasions come around I always have a supply of ready to go outfits!

Fran

December 27, 2017

Don’t sew when your tired or upset, you’ll end up redoing it. Have all your supplies organized and ready to go before you start your project.

April

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to sew a wide stitch the sew in the zipper and remove the wide stitch. It’s so much easier than the way that I used to do it and make a very pretty finished result.

Sonja

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to match the type of needle to your fabric.

Leslie

December 27, 2017

I have several gadgets that threads needles, one for hand sewing and one for machines….saves the eyes

Holly Tolman

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to use a glue stick for zippers.

Ashley

December 27, 2017

I love patterns I have to sew with a pattern.

Jaime Vazquez

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to choose patterns at your appropriate skill level.

Carol Dolan

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to recycle old T-shirts for knit fabric. Usually the backs of the shirts are in good shape and plenty of fabric to make knit items for dolls.

Leslie

December 27, 2017

When I need a specialty fabric for a doll outfit, sometimes I shop at a thrift store and find something fabulous to upcycle.

Lian

December 27, 2017

The most useful tip I have received in my many years of sewing came from my grandmother. She told me, “if you get frustrated, walk away from your project for a while.” I’ve had to do that many a time.

Diana D

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is stay organized.

Margaret S.

December 27, 2017

One of my favorite sewing tips is: I trace and cut out each pattern I have printed out on pattern tracing material (Do-Sew). It makes the pattern easy to work with and adds a permanence to it should I want to re-use it.

Joanne

December 27, 2017

Favorite tip if making the same item, do them assembly style. “Seams” to go faster.

Nancy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to learn and get inspired from sewing friends and classes, but not to obsess about how beautiful others do their work, when mine isn’t as perfect. It’s good to know what perfect looks like and what I can aspire to, but my efforts are better than those who don’t know how at all or don’t try, so mine looks great to the people I give my work to.

Scarlett

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is…….. Have your Mom do it! I know how to sew but am not very proficient. She loves to sew and me, not so much. :)

Sara

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to use tissue paper when sewing vinyl to eliminate sticking to the machine foot. The paper just tears off after you finish sewing.

Judy

December 27, 2017

Make sure you have everything you need before starting and have really good lighting like from a Ott’s light. I have trouble seeing the light is a life saver especially if you are working on black or dark material.

DeVonna

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to buy the large cone gray thread for construction seams, and to keep 6 or so bobbins pre-loaded in my supplies box at all times of all the basics… white, neutral, gray and black.

Susan

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to use quality fabrics. If all of your work is perfect and the fabric used was not, your doll clothes will not last. Doll dresses are the most precious heirlooms. I still have mine my mother made over 50 years ago-they need to be played with and still hold up over time.

Vickie H

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to always pin two pieces together to make sure that when u sew they line up evenly

Wanda

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is sewing the over the ends of the zippers, and cutting off the excess portion to make it the exact size I need. Also, my sister gives me great tips.

Marjorie

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip I the wash out 2 sided tape. I use it on Zippers, collars, hems and wherever I need to hold fabric together to sew it.

Kay

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to line all bodices with fashion fabric. That way lining is the same as outside and therefore especially sleeveless garments looks better.

Mary Fleming

December 27, 2017

My tip is to use a small travel iron or a mini-iron to get into small areas and press the seams as you sew. You will have a much nicer finished project.

Susan Kramer

December 27, 2017

Love the dresses, I have 3 granddaughters who will love them. Take your time when you sew and read all the insturctions first

Michelle

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing trick is use the best scissors and thread you can. They takes a ton of frustration out of sewing and are one of your best investments.

Becky

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to use double sided hem tape to give yourself an extra hand for any fiddly areas.

Debbra DeBolt

December 27, 2017

My favourite tip is buying my sewing attachment that gives me a correct 1/4" seam for my doll clothes.

RONNIE ECKART

December 27, 2017

Use the right size needle on each fabric. It doesn’t take that long to change a needle!

Janet

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is do no throw anything away. Since doll outfits use so little fabric, it doesn’t take much to make something.

Char N

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to recycle garments for fabric. You can fine special pieces at your favorite charity boutiques for great one of a kind doll outfits.

Pat Krywonizka

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to “preview” a pattern on muslin. That way i lnow how easy/difficult it will be and afterwards i can dye it if I choose!!

Gloria

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is aways keep some painters tape handy for marking pieces.

Katie

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is definitely it’s okay to take a break if you begin to get too frustrated, my mother used to remind me constantlythat I sew because I enjoy it, and she’s honestly right. So if you’re not enjoying it? Feel free to take a step back, work on something else for a bit, and come back refreshed.

Linda

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip that I have just learned after many years of sewing is push yourself to learn something new not only will it help your sewing but also your brain……….

Brenda

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is … press, press, press — makes everything look so much better, including our beautiful doll dresses!!

Virginia

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to recycle material from clothing. Check it for durability and enjoy!

Dawn

December 27, 2017

My favorite trick or tip is even though I love sewing your patterns its very relaxing and rewarding to get newborn baby clothes from goodwill and refurbish them.

Katherine

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is sewing with tissue paper on knits to make the machine go over the fabric smoother. It’s incredible how much easier it is!

Amber

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to step away when I get frustrated and come back after a bit with a calmer mindset. Since I’m a beginner, this helps me from getting too discouraged when things don’t go right!

Sandra

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip/trick is to use wax paper under material when sewing fine fabric. It keeps it from getting caught in the machine and is easy to remove when done with the seams.

Jean

December 27, 2017

My best sewing tips are to read the entire pattern instructions before trying the pattern and be patient.

Kathy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to have a small bag attached to your sewing table for threads and scraps- just a swipe of your hand and your work area is clean.

Linda J.

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to place a small piece of masking tape on the sewing plate to the right of the needle at the measurement that I want the seams. Then I can guide the fabric through by lining up the edge of the fabric with the edge of the tape to keep the seams uniform.

Delorise

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is to chain piece as much as possible.

Debra Luecke

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to buy a dust ruffle from the thrift store. The one with the interfacing like fabric. I use that for making patterns. Works great and I can reuse with ease. Saves a lot of money as there is so much fabric from just one of these.
Also great if you want light interfacing and have run out of your regular brand.

Nancy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make doll clothes from clothing that my granddaughter wore as an infant. Such a great way to preserve those precious memories.

Laurainne

December 27, 2017

My favourite sewing trick is to remember that my dolls are not critical,but rather love it when I make them something new to wear,even if it is not perfect!They are always grateful!This fact always helps the perfectionist in me to keep on,keeping on.

Deadra Dewbre

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to expand your knowledge of sewing. We have unlimited resources available to us provided by Pixie Faire. Thanks you. So very much Cinnamon!

Heather

December 27, 2017

Love the beautiful dresses. A girl can never have too many party dresses, even if she is a doll!

Enlee

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to cut out fabric from a pattern and put into a ziplock bag along with a note that has the pattern name, designer, size and view. That way if I don’t get to sewing it right away or finish the project I know everything and do not have to guess.

Connie

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is “always be a happy smiling ripper” (not that anyone is a ripper)

Margaret W

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip if using thrift store (or other not new) is to make sure it is not too old and will not hold up. (i,e, thread, bias tape, lace)

Joni

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to watch everything I can. I learned to sew not very long ago and fell in love with it. I prefer sewing for dolls, since the size is pretty constant and you can use such beautiful materials without going broke :) And I love watching the children’s faces light up when they see the outfits and start playing with them.

sarah

December 27, 2017

my favorite sewing tip is to utilize my 10 year old “designer”. She picks the pattern, fabrics, trim, etc..and I am the sweat shop!

Claudia Flinn

December 27, 2017

My tip is I like to cut out multiple outfits, before I start to see so that when I set down to sew I can finish them without having stop t cut out another outfit

Natasha

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make pattern pieces out of muslin (particularly for slippery fabrics). Then I can open up the ones that are supposed to be on a fold and lay them flat for cutting. Much less frustration that way!

Ashli

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is simple. Make sure you read the entire pattern first – you may have an easier way of doing some of the steps they have you do. Like adding a cuff before sewing an arm closed instead of after!

Caroline

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is using the correct needle and thread for the fabric I am sewing.

Tamara

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to cut pattern pieces out of freezer paper and iron them on to difficult to cut fabric like lucrative knits

Grace White

December 27, 2017

When you have a stalled project, sleep on it. I find that thinking about it as I go to sleep, I usually come up with a solution.

Betty Victory

December 27, 2017

Carolyn

December 27, 2017

Copy page one of a PDF pattern. Tape a piece of the fabric you used to the back, along with tips for next time. Add scraps of fabric and trim from your stash for future inspiration. Granddaughters love adding comments and styling ideas! Put in a page protector and store in a large 3-ring binder.

Krista Laser

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is if at first you don’t succeed, try again.

Sherry Hopper

December 27, 2017

I have been sewing for 50 years. My mother taught me when I was young. My favorite trick, especially lately, is to use the interfacing meant for knits. It is a lifesaver when working with fabric like t-shirt knit. It makes it soooo much easier :)

Wendy

December 27, 2017

My favourite tip about sewing is about the tension screw on the bobbin holder. I’d had years of fighting with my sewing machine, and that tip made it so I could actually enjoy sewing.

Judy

December 27, 2017

My sewing tip is to read your pattern all the way thru before starting to sew

Rhonda

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to trace patterns onto cardboard, cut the cardboard out, then use fabric markers to trace around the templates onto fabric. More work in the beginning, but it makes it go much faster when you are cutting out multipule items of the same thing!

cathy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is having the small travel iron together with small ironing board right next to sewing machine so that I can easily press each seam

Laura

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip; know when you are beaten by a complicated pattern and either ask for help or let someone else do it for you.

MARLENE

December 27, 2017

My daughters’ favorite sewing tip is not ASK mom, but have mom SEW it! Since I’m retired, it works for them most times.