Hi Evelyn. I am a tailor working from my home studio in Johnsonville, Wellington, New Zealand. One of my favourite tools is a common dinner fork. If you want to make a free-sewing pleated skirt you cut the length of the fabric needed, (as in waist to knee or desired length) and slip the fabric under the machine. Then slip the material edge through the first gap of the fork, fold the fork over and it's made a pleat! Keeping the fabric folded, slide the fork out and stitch it, continue doing this until the desired length (or waistband measurement plus seams) is completed. It's so easy. Cut a waistband and attach, stitch in the zip, finish the seam, hem it and it's done. Do a trial on a measured scrap to figure out how much material to get. Enjoy!

@sophroniel

Жыл бұрын

Do you want an apprentice?? Lol. I'm in christchurch but can't find anyone who is actually a tailor and wants to apprentice someone 😅

@daleodberg6714

Жыл бұрын

Thank you

@catherinemclernon2550

Жыл бұрын

I made my own 'pleating fork' years ago with a popstick and 2 short pieces of a wooden skewer stuck onto one end with a hot glue gun. Works a treat!!

@swifthealy2021

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for sharing, do you know Dawn and kerry from Wales they were living in Wellington new New Zealand and working at the University there they were our neighbours and i went to school with Dawn know it's a long shot. Kindest regards Wendy 🌻 🙏🏿🎼🤗🎨

@jbad5012

8 ай бұрын

I know about all of them

For precise starching, I spray some starch into the lid, and then use a paintbrush to apply the liquid starch to a seam that needs some extra pressing management. I keep the brush rubber-banded to the starch can.

@papadonttakenomess1764

Жыл бұрын

I have a similar method. That uses a mix of cornstarch from the kitchen and distilled water.

@patriciadorwin4052

Жыл бұрын

The only one new to me was the safety pin. Sewing machines used to come with a hump jumper in the accessory box. They also have a hole with one flat side to hold a replacement seeing machine needle. Very helpful. I think I have at least three of these from different sewing machines. I also have the point turner one that you have but never use it for anything other than points.

@traciedenton6050

Жыл бұрын

Me too - very good for applique

@missbabydollful

Жыл бұрын

Genius!

@traciedenton6050

Жыл бұрын

I do this too after learning to do it on needle turn applique

Thank you! That snag tool looks super helpful. One thing that isn't a sewing tool, per se, that I use all the time is an LED head lamp. Like the kind sold in camping stores. I use it when I work around the house and need my two hands. But one day, I realized I can easily use it for sewing when I need extra light or need to see up close for hand sewing or detail work. I just put on my head lamp and I'm good to go. They are adjustable, so you can wear them as tight or loose as you like. My son likes to wear one to read under his blankets : ) They are a great idea for sewing!

@Beruthiel45

Жыл бұрын

Great idea! I bought a Brother portable years ago for quick repairs, saving me the bother of threading up my heavy duty old Kenmore in the basement so it was disappointed when the light in it doesn't even shine onto the needle plate, so I rarely use it. I did buy a craft light but a headlight is even better and I have several for reading already.

@nikimarsh404

Жыл бұрын

That’s a great idea

@colleend2977

Жыл бұрын

Genius!

@surrenderlotusfeet7119

Жыл бұрын

... and if you sew it onto a cap, it will be easy to take on and off, not be in direct contact with you skin, and also stay in position. (As some models tend to slip under the weight of the lamp.)

@DeborahYost-pi9tt

2 ай бұрын

The other end of the hump jumper is used to push corners out. It also has measures on it. Got mine free with some sewing books, and they sent another one with the next book, rubber band 2 together, and then you can go over other thicker materials. I've had mine for years and use it almost every day.

I don’t own a jump jumper but I kinda inherited my grandma’s sewing kit and I saw that she had a stash of old telephone cards in it and then I realized she used them as a hump jumper! Just stack them as much as you need for thicker layers.Been using those instead of the hump jumper. Old bank cards Works too and it’s free!

Wow! My mum taught me to sew when I was around 7 y.o. on a Singer. Now 70 years later I have made everything from baby suits to wedding dresses and I still love sewing....But you have taught me a thing or two and opened my eyes to magic! Not kidding! THANKYOU. Xx x. You're never too old to learn.

@tammyjohnson8150

15 күн бұрын

You are so right, I am 58 and just began my sewing journey in August of 23’! I dabbled in sewing in my 30’s with a friend. But got serious in August. And every single day I’ve asked myself why I didn’t start sewing years ago. I love it so much. And with social media I can get help at any time. I am keeping my mind active and focused and having so much fun.

I make a lot of purses and bags and my best tool is the walking foot. It evenly feeds the multiple layers of fabric, stabilizers, and batting or foam. And it works like a charm on thick seams (just go slow). Also - using a denim needle while working with bulky fabrics has been a game changer!

@donitaforrest9064

Жыл бұрын

Great Tips! 👍🇨🇦

@catherinemclernon2550

Жыл бұрын

How did I ever manage without my walking foot! I use it so often

Snag repair tool I was taught to use a needle threader that has the metal tab to hold with thin wire that goes through eye of needle. You push wire through fabric from back side and slide the snag in to opening then pull back through the fabric. Works great, especially on sweaters.

@amandanelson9697

Жыл бұрын

Love this 👌

@jennyp4934

9 ай бұрын

Great idea.

I always wondered what my hump jumper was. It has had me scratching my head for years. Now, at last - you solved it! Thank you so much! I could have been getting a lot of good out of it all these years.

I'm just pleased as punch that I have ALL of your secrets in my sewing room... somewhere. I just moved house and everything is still boxed up, but I should be back to sewing by the start of next year! Here's my hint from this journey - when you know you're going to move, it's a great time to take your machine(s) to the repair shop for a tune-up! I packed mine into their original boxes and dropped them at my sewing store. They even shipped them to the branch that's closer to my new location, saving me gas money as well. Bonus is I get to meet the staff at the new store when I go to get them and start a new relationship!

@joyscout348

Жыл бұрын

Thank you. The coil free safety pins and the looper threaders were new to me. The snag tool I have somewhere in my stash, but I never used it. Time to look for it and make it more handy now that you demonstrated how it works.

@bettyeames6812

Жыл бұрын

I did that when I moved house too. I did not move so far away as to require finding a new sewing machine repair shop. I just thought it was a good time to get my machines out of the way of movers and ready to start a shiny new life in our new home.😊

The spray starch: also makes a great fabric protector. Ever notice that new clothes releases soil easily on the first wash? It’s the sizing or starch. I use spray starch on the front of hubby’s work shirts and front of kids jackets. Also on the cuffs. Amazing how nice these items release soil.

@traceybyrne5644

Жыл бұрын

Fantastic for kids clothes, thankyou so much

@ddempsey9642

Жыл бұрын

​@@traceybyrne5644To avoid picking up any sort of infection from new clothes, I always wash them before first wearing them. Shop made items especially but even home-made ones too, because of not knowing in either case who has handled the fabric/garment etc at any stage in the making & storage.

@amandanelson9697

Жыл бұрын

Love this 👌 I mix up spray starch in a bottle with water and several drops of essential oils-I spray my sheets and duvet cover in the morning-tug the corners, wrinkles gone and at night when you get in bed, they feel freshly pressed (and smell amazing)

6 secret tools from the video: 1-coiless safety pin at 1:33 2- hump jumper 2:50 3- loop turner 5:00 4- overlocker needle threaders 6:00 5- spray starch 7:52 6- snag repair tool 9:47

@tonidozier4573

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your post. She could have made this video in half the time if she would stop yapping so much about her ego and “secret tools” that we’ve heard about. I’ve had a snag tool for DECADES. Actually, a needle with a longer piece of thread can be used for the same thing, pulling a snagged thread through.

@tonidozier4573

Жыл бұрын

This video is too long. Get to the point quicker. I’m not a professional seamstress. I’ve had a snag tool for decades. Here’s a hint, use a needle and thread (no knot) and the same snagged thread can be pulled through to the back. You’re not as special as you think you are with your knowledge of all these tools that we haven’t heard about because you haven’t heard about them, first. Talk about ego trip!

@Call-me-Al

Жыл бұрын

​@@tonidozier4573 Chill, please. I didn't get the impression she was super serious. Her demographic is also people who have far less sewing experience than you, as she is a sewing teacher. I've heard of most of these too, it's not that serious.

@612jaybe

Жыл бұрын

@@tonidozier4573 😂😂😂

@ashleymufasa

Жыл бұрын

​@@Call-me-AlYes, exactly. She is targeting people like me who know nothing and are just starting out. I like listening to her talk. That's why I chose to watch her out of all the other many seamstresses on KZread.

I've been using a bone folder to finger press seams and it's so much easier on my hands! Plus it doubles as a point turner :)

@Wingedshadowwolf

Жыл бұрын

I bought one of those with the intent to use it like that, I haven't tried it yet. Last time I was sewing, I couldn't find it!

@scottcaley5057

Жыл бұрын

I made my own Bone folder and other tools out of scraps of wood an old ruler and whatever I can find it works great for me!

@julienunn2102

Жыл бұрын

Love my 'Hump-Jumper' - it's an icecream stick, filed down at one end to use as a pointer / awl but put it under the back of the presser foot and it's brilliant for lifting the back of the foot to get over the bump. I also have two, stuck together, for when I ocassionally need higher lift ;) Can also mark inches/cms on it. So useful and costs nothing ;)

@FabricFool

Жыл бұрын

GENIUS!!

@user-qt4qp6bj1q

8 ай бұрын

I inherited a bone folder. It was so old it broke, very soon! 😪

Another great video. I use the jump jumper from the back to level out the foot rather then pushing the fabric.

@traceybyrne5644

Жыл бұрын

Thats the way ive seen it done before. I usually go extra slow or use the hand wheel to go over thickness a little easier

Love this video! I hadn't heard of 4 of the 6. However a tool that I use frequently is a hemostat. You know those little pinchers that doctors use. They are perfect for recapturing that slipped elastic that has gone down into the casing. They lock so you can grab the center of a tube and pull it though like a loop tool. (I also use them for stuffing dolls and that sort.

@taraiza878

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I love mine. I recently gave my young (new sewiest) niece some of my extra sewing tools. When she saw the hemostats I threw in she 😳These look like surgical tools Tia !! I’m thrilled to share with her. Lol 😊

I’m going through my late grandmother’s sewing table this week and found a loop turner, but had no idea what it was for. A lot of knowledge got lost between her sewing career and mine; I’m so grateful to have learned about this tool from you today. Wonderful timing. ❤

Something that I have found useful when threading my serger is pair of reverse grip tweezers. They are used in the paper crafting - card making world. They hold the thread leaving one hand free to move the needles. Awesome tool and quite inexpensive.

I love using the coiless safety pins on the back of name tags. The HJ I learned how to use in Home Ec in high school (1973}, but I use it in the back of the foot. The loop tuner is great but I like the tube turners better. Now the serger threaders, wow! I’m ordering those! My fav starch is Magic Sizing! I carry a snag tool , great in thrift stores, so you know before you buy if the snag can be hidden!

@traceybyrne5644

Жыл бұрын

Or, ask for a good discount on the garment. I just say, i dont know if i can fix it but for a discounted price, im willing to try

@amandanelson9697

Жыл бұрын

Nice 👌 I carry my tape measure with me to thrift stores- now I'll add a snag tool to my pocket 🥰

Fantastic video as always. I started using a reusable straw to insert into small spaghetti straps then insert the turner thru the straw. It makes quick work of small straps made of difficult material like knits & lycra.

@bettyeames6812

Жыл бұрын

This is very similar to the Dritz Quick Turn Fabric Tube Turners. They come in 3 sizes with rods to push the end of the fabric through the cylinders.❤❤

@user-qt4qp6bj1q

8 ай бұрын

You just gave me an idea to use a long piece of uncooked spaghetti, to reverse narrow items after sewing.😀

I have a Hump Jumper like yours but I never thought of using it that way, but now I certainly will! It’s actually for sewing larger buttons on thick fabrics, such as coats. This tool helps you by allowing some space between button and fabric, you need that to keep the button from ripping off or damaging the fabric. 😊

@nancydann6338

Жыл бұрын

A circular peice of cardboard with a center hole, (large enough to accommodate 2 or four buttonhole or the button stump) Work well. So does a hardware washer (smooth edges please!).

@MirjaHCreative

Жыл бұрын

Ohhhh, so that's why the piece looked familiar! I must have one similar to that, as one of those tools came with my sewing machine back in the day!

@TheEvie202

7 ай бұрын

I always attached buttons on winter coats with a quarter between the button and wool coat. It works and is free, too!😂

I love the dress and room divider screen that agree in the background!

I’ve heard of them all except the snag tool. I was also entertained to see that the sewing machine you demo’s the hump jumper with has a levelling button which actually does the same task as putting your hump jumper under the back of the presser foot to level it. That black button took me a while to suss out, but it’s magic.

I have not heard about #2 or #6 and will be keeping my eye out for them. I love your videos, I purchased my Granddaughter a sewing machine for Christmas she turned 14 this year and I recommended that she watch your videos as she loves vintage clothes. Your content is well thought out, your presentations are not click bait and your tips and tricks are well worth the time spent hitting all the buttons, YOU ROCK EVELYN. Oh I was rude and shouted. I don't comment often. I comment on the Great ones!!!

@kuroinokitsune

Жыл бұрын

Oh.. 14 and has her own sewing machine! I'm jealous - I used my grandmother's and school ones at that age. You guys so cool, I hope she likes it:)

@eo9044

Жыл бұрын

If your granddaughter likes vintage-style fashion and is learning to sew, she might like The Closet Historian channel here on KZread (as well as Evelyn). Both are great for different reasons! I recommend some of TCH's earlier videos for some additional interesting ideas and how-tos.

@julienunn2102

Жыл бұрын

#2, the Hump-Jumper, I use an ice cream stick. Brilliant. I also have 2 sticks stuck together for the occasional 'bigger' bump but it certainly brings the foot straight so can stitch over the bump so much better. I've also filled one end to a point, so can use it if awl not handy plus I marked inches and cms on it too so a multi-use tool :) I don't like spending my money on something that isn't as accommodating as a DIY tool ;)

@patriciatriplett4020

Жыл бұрын

I agree with you ChooChoo this video had information I just didnt know about

So glad you found my tip about coilless pins helpful! I've got both sizes in my stash. The larger ones - 2.25" - came from Amazon US. The smaller ones (about 3/4") I have were purchased from Michael's (a big box craft store in the US) several years ago in the jewelry making section. Both were made by Darice brand. Dritz also makes them, but they're curved slightly and larger - 1 1/8" I believe. I've seen both sizes stocked in several places depending on the store I'm at - the quilting section, sewing notions, the jewelry/beading section, and the general craft section. I've also seen them at office supply stores, local yarn stores, on etsy, and eBay. I'm US based though, and all three companies that I know make them - Darice, Dritz, and Cousin DIY are US based so that might explain why it's easier to find here. I know for a fact that some jewelry makers use them so it might be worth looking in to Australian based shops/online retailers for jewelry supplies. And now, I'm off to buy a snag repair tool because my favorite work blouse got caught on a sharp corner of my desk yesterday and needs repair. (And, funnily enough, I can on KZread today to try and figure out how to fix it when I spotted your new vid!)

@julienunn2102

Жыл бұрын

Congratulations on having your tip loudly mentioned here :)

@NanaGagie

Жыл бұрын

Whiskeyfyre..Thank You for your detailed directions ! Made my purchases easy! 😊

@whiskeyfyre

Жыл бұрын

@@NanaGagie Glad it was of some help to you!

@chemjen39

Жыл бұрын

Nice to know! I heard of coilless pins recently for crocheters to use (instead of a locking stitch marker) to put a tag or numbered/lettered beads on your projects in progress with the hook size you were using to make the piece. So if it gets set aside for awhile, when you come back to it you know which size hook to grab. Makes sense that they could be found in so many different places - useful! Also I found out about Snag Nab It from a yarny blog and got myself one last year!

@Fluffyslippers128

8 ай бұрын

Doesn’t the coil give the pin stability?

Always good seeing your smiling face, Ms. Evelyn. I hope all is well and the healing progresses. Take care. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

Loop turners are also really great for pulling the ends of overlocked threads beck through themselves to neaten them up.

@ilektrakaratasiou3352

Жыл бұрын

Yes but as the thread chain is long enough they can be used the turn the strap inside out or using a crochet hook.

@traceybyrne5644

Жыл бұрын

Not just to neaten them up, but it also secures the thread from unraveling

The coolest safety pin blows my mind along with the looper threader. I always have to take the machine in to get it threaded - no more. Thank you. I've used all the others and wouldn't be without them. The starch or fabric finisher is also wonderfully when sewing quilts.😊

I already knew about the coil-less safety pen, the hump jumper, loop turner, and spray starch. However, I never heard of the over-locker threader or the Snag-Nab-It or snag repair tool. I have always used a size 11 steel crochet hook to repair snags with. A plastic drinking straws are very useful tool in the sewing room. Small pieces of a plastic straw can be used to make extra thread leads when sewing with an over-sized cone of thread (just use a little masking tape to hold them where they are needed on your sewing machine). Adding a longer piece of plastic drinking straw to the top thread holder can help keep a tall spool of thread in place. And, a piece of plastic drinking straw can be used to carry a cord to the crouching foot when doing fancy machine work.

@sharoncook2533

Жыл бұрын

I would love to see a picture showing how you use plastic straws in couching! I enjoy couching a great deal and would love great tips! 😊

I had not heard of the snag grabber before, and will probably get at least one. Thanks to you, I have now heard of the rest. I do have a handy hint that perhaps most sewists know about, but bears being shared. When I am trimming seams or working with anything that leaves threads or tiny shreds if fabric, I use an adhesive roller to pick up that mess, especially off my ironing board. Of course I also use it on the piece of clothing itself to get stray threads or anything else sticking to it. It makes clean up so much easier! Happy Sewing to you all!

@nancydann6338

Жыл бұрын

Growing up in 60's, I used scotch tape wrapped on my hand!

@wendibridge3577

Жыл бұрын

I have three cats so a fluffy remover is a must in our house. That snag grabber was new to me too, must get one.

@firsttimegrammy3101

Жыл бұрын

For years I have used a Steele crochet hook on pulls in sweaters. I’ll now try that on fabric pulls. Thanks for your informative videos.

Just wanted you to know how much I enjoy your videos. You help me “see” that sewing is NOT intimidating. I am keeping you in my prayers!

Mum used to lay a thin blanket ( roughly the thickness of a baby blanket doubled over at minimum) on the sewing table and then covered it with a sheet that covered the whole table before putting her sewing machine on the table. The blanket would dampen the vibrations for starters, then as you were sewing, you could pin things to the sheet/blanket to hold themselves in place or out of the way and if you were needing to rapidly put pins in as you were sewing and take them out again, you could stick them in the surface as a type of huge pin cushion. But best of all was when you were done. If there were any dropped pins, they would still be on the sheet and easy to pick up, rather than being swept onto the floor. She also kept a reasonably strong magnet on the shelf nearby if she thought one had headed south. The magnet had a string tied through a ring on the top, and she would just swing it over the floor, and any pins, needles, hooks, etc, would leap up onto the magnet. She would do this at the end of every session, even when she had a dedicated table and room, as a test to see if she could not drop any at all. She would also keep the scrap ends of ribbon or lace. She would tie the ribbon into tiny bows and hand sew them on the the lace and keep them in a tin. These would be used to decorate baby clothes, doll clothes, or any ornaments. Both of my parents were born at the start of the great depression and nothing was ever wasted.

I’ve been a self-taught sewist for decades, and I’ve never heard of most of these. I think I’m going to have to get myself a hump jumper and a loop turner now!

In your past video you had a tomato for needles. Where is this tomato with markings for needles? This is definitely one of your biggest secrets❣️

Have and use all six, but I am a sewing nerd and a gadget hound!

The looper threader, the spray on starch and the snag grabber are tools new to me. The snag grabber is jaw dropping!

@dale3404

Жыл бұрын

I haven’t seen the snag grab it, but I do have a different tool for sweater snags. It looks like a cross between a seam ripper and the spaghetti strap tool Evelyn showed in the earlier paper of the vid.

I had seen snag repair tools before, but had no idea how they actually worked. That is a godsend and I must buy one now!! Thanks for showing us that 😊

I am a total beginner, but it was just during my first project I came to the starch conclusion. good tip

Love the dress in the background. Will absolutely order the snag repair tool immediately!

I knew all of them, though with the coilless safety pins I had only just learned about them in your previous video. I have a loop turner just like yours. I haven't used it much, but when I do I thank my lucky stars that I have it. I also have the overlocker threader, though just the long one. I didn't know about the curved one. I usually just change my overlocker threads like everyone else, tie the new thread onto the end of the previous thread and run the machine. But for those times when the loopers come unthreaded it has been a Godsend. Pretty much everyone who has ever worked with slippery fabric knows about spray starch. And the snag-it, I've seen them and knew about them but I've never had one. I use Frixion (pronounced the same as friction pens a lot. I first heard about them when my choir director suggested them for marking our music. They have highlighters in bright and pastel colors as well as regular ball point pens. They're great for marking fabric because once you iron over the marks the ink disappears. But be careful when you use them on satins. The ink may disappear, but it will leave marks on the satiny side of the fabric. Also, the ink will come back if it gets too cold. Around 0° C is when it can reappear. I know of another stitcher on KZread who uses Frixion pens a lot, and one time she marked all the pieces of her garment then, as she was sewing them together and ironing it she accidentally pressed over all the markings. She had a very confused husband for a while wondering why sections of an 18th century gown was in their freezer. So be careful where you're marking with the Frixion pens. Close to the seam allowance is best unless you need to mark placement points for pockets or other embellishments on your garment. And there's one tool that I have been lusting for for a very long time. It's called the June Tailor Tailor Board. They stopped making them a long time ago so finding them is very difficult. And to find one still in good shape is almost a miracle. I've seen them on ebay selling for upwards of $70 USD. So this pressing board looks odd with 3 pieces of wood cut in odd shapes. The largest piece looks similar to an artist's palate with a curved side and a flat side. The middle sized piece looks like a very narrow bootmaker's last and the smallest piece just looks like a handle. Very odd. But it gives you 10 pressing surfaces, particularly for those hard to reach areas in collars and facings whose seams you want to press flat before turning. There are 3 edges for large, small, and very small outward curves, an inward curve, a straight edge with a straight point and a point presser, a small sleeve arm, and a flat all-purpose pressing surface. I finally managed to find one online and I'll post a picture of it on Instagram when I arrives. And I'll be sure to tag you so you can see it because my description was not the best. This is one of those things that you have to see to understand.

My only sewing trick is to get my scissors professionally sharpened every year. It kind of drives me nuts when I hear of someone buying yet another pair from Amazon when all they need is a tune-up. Thanks for this. Great tips. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

@tiggero6690

Жыл бұрын

My sewing scissors live in my sewing box and NEVER, get used for anything except fabric. They're still sharp after 20 years...

Not too secret but I keep chopsticks on hand. They are great for pushing out corners and holding seams open while you iron to keep your hands away. Along with a smoothie straw (bigger than regular one) it’s my tube turning system as well.

@WokenWildly

Жыл бұрын

Knitting needles work great as well, especially double sided needles with no bulbous end, or a boubous end can be the perfect tool depending on the knitting needle side!

Hi Evelyn. KZread suggested your video, and it was quite enjoyable. Don't know if you check comments this far or from posting, but I thought I would add a tip I learned WAAAAAY too long into my sewing years. The hump jumper is a great tool, but there's an easier way to deal with thick seams. See that little black button in your presser foot? Sew up and over the bulk, then as the front of the foot leaves the fabric, press that black button. It will lock the foot in the highest horizontal position, then as the back of the foot begins to clear the bulk, the black button will release allowing the presser foot to relax and follow the fabric again. You sometimes have to figure where the button will depress and kick, but once you do, it's a game changer!

I have been sewing since I was 6-7 years old (now 64) and I haven't heard of any of these so a big thank you. I have subscribed and rung the bell. ❤️❤️❤️

That super secret tool!!! I've been sewing since I was 8 yrs old- Never have I ever. The snag struggle is real, thank you for this. I'm about to dive into the comments 🥰

The sleeves on that blouse are incredible ❤

I need to have a snag repair tool! OMG! Where was this all my life?

I love the idea of spray starch, such a simple way to make the fabric easier to deal with.

Thanks for another informative video Evelyn! I've heard of all of these except for the snag catcher. (I use a really fine crochet hook when it happens in knit garments). I find the hump jumper works best when you insert it under the back of the presser foot (with your needle in the fabric, of course). It keeps your stitches regular and stops your machine from moaning and groaning when you're going over those double seams :)

@laurabryant2779

Жыл бұрын

I knew that if I read far enough in the comments someone would have already mentioned using the hump jumper behind the sewing needle, to lift the back side as the needle passes over the excessively thick layers of fabric. I make a good many flat felt seams, and when I make my signature hem on a skirt bottom, there may be 6-9 layers to be sewn over. I have also found to not use jeans needles for sewing through heavy fabrics. I've found using the sharpest, thinnest needle, as well as letting the fabric feed directly without pulling will sew better. I've broken way too many "jeans" needles so I found this other method easier, faster and SAFER.

@donitaforrest9064

Жыл бұрын

​@@laurabryant2779 Very interesting about using the sharpest thinnest needle instead of the jeans needle. Another commenter said switching to a jeans needle was a game changer. Evelyn should do a video on that, yeah? I've actually wondered about that alot over the years.

Thanks so much, Evelyn❤️ Coiless safety pins?! All those years of costume fittings while fighting safety pins. Now I am on the hunt for those. I have come back to spray starch in my quilting endeavors, but didn't even think about using it on knits🤦‍♀️ Oddly enough, I am really familiar with the thick seam aid, but not as a quilter. My Mother began using one when hemming denim work clothes for Dad and later for my brother. The one she used was branded 'The Jean-A-Ma Jig. I still have it and another. I want to insert another 'face-palm' because I could have been using it for quilting! I definitely need to expand my thinking!! I did know about the other tools, but forget to make a note on my wish list.

Curved Coil-less Safety Pins that are also used for quilting. I think they'd be great for holding any bulky project like making a coat. Once you pierce through the layers of fabric the bend in the pin also makes it so much easier to clasp it. Your fingers will thank you. And thank you for all you do here in your channel!

A very good evening to you. I love your videos. The hump jumper is a great tool! In another video a lady used a similar trick, right in front the hump, stop your machine with the needle inside the fabric, then lift the foot. Place a thick button or a pice of cardboard underneath the foot from the back. Lower the foot on top of the object and sew over the bump - no more broken needles or crumpled fabric! Just remember to quickly remove the object as soon as you are on the bump, or else it will "shoot" out. I find that thick cardboard or plastic works the best. Happy sewing. God bless!

I used to work at an upscale discount clothing store that has (sadly) gone out of business, but the woman who was in charge of ladies clothing swore by the SnagNabit (such a great name!). She kept 1 or 2 handy, and used them frequently to fix snags and pulls in polyester blouses that looked like silk, sweaters, faux raw silk, gauzy-type fabrics, chiffon, loose weaves that looked like Chanel suits, etc. That little tool prevented us from having to discount items so many times!

Thank you for showing and explaining how you use all the tools. I have had all of these (still in their packaging) for a long time but I was never sure what to do with them 😂. I quilt as well as sewing garments, plus bag making etc, love all your video’s

so, you just "game changed" things for me with two of the secrets. I have been having issues with my needle threader and I'm getting too old to see well bad combo. I'm going to look for that threader. Also, the starch. I am just getting into sewing knits more, and knowing I can spray starch the seams to make it easier? Holy cow!

How about this one. I use it whenever I have to sew over thick seams like 6-8 layers of denim in your jeans hem when you are shortening then. Get a hammer (a regular carpentry hammer) and a block of wood or a concrete floor and bash the good sense right out of the layered hem at the spot where all the layers are. The concussive force flattens and softens the weave of the fabric making it a breeze to sew through. Hmm, that’s the first time Ive ever used the word “concussive” in a comment on a sewing vlog!

@annakramar5088

Жыл бұрын

Good tip🙂

The Hump Jumper is a really good one. Great for sewing with denim and upholstery fabrics!

This is not a secret sewing tool but it is something that I have found incredibly helpful when doing alterations. I use a disappearing ink fabric marker to mark where the alterations need to be instead of pins. This could be just marking the amount of fabric on each side that you need to take up, or specific other alterations, but it really beats leaving pins in the fabric when you’re taking the garment off of a person. And it’s also a great way to avoid damaging delicate fabrics. I prefer the disappearing ink pen that stays on for like 72 hours. I know there are water soluble pins, but a lot of times I don’t want to submerge the garment I’m working on and water (I work on a lot of dance costumes which are not easy to wash).

@m.h.vriesinga9756

Жыл бұрын

There are also pens that disappear with some (low temperature) ironing. No water needed, although it will wash out also. Frixion pens are one of the known brands. But... ALWAYS try on a scrap first, because sometimes the fabric has a will of its own...

A hump jumper?!?! I can't wait to try this one out! Great suggestions! I have all the other tools and use them often. I find that my loop turner does not always catch the material right or catches some the the inner seams as I am turning, not my favorite tool. I attach a small twine or ribbon in the end seam and run it the length of the item to be turned. Make sure you don't sew the string in the sides, only the end. The twine gives you a nice string to pull the fabric inside out, (great for spaghetti straps). Once your fabric is turned, cut the twine end off. Easy and no extra tools needed.

@bbirchfield1gmail

Жыл бұрын

12:03 I have used this trick for years and it works great. Ribbon or a cord is always available and the ribbon is usually satin or some material that is of a slick nature and slides easily.

Lovely! I'm so glad to hear about the snag-nab-it tool as I'm just now learning to work with knits, some of them a bit uncooperative. And thanks for the reminder about spray starch for curling edges on knits. You're a life saver!

I am 3 years in sewing and just love learning about little sewing tools that enhance my sewing experience. The that I utilize is the loop turner. I looked everything else up on Amazon and to my surprise I already have a hump jumper presser foot that came with my sewing machine. I had know clue what it was used for. The snag repair is definitely a game changer also. Thanks again for the great info!

I have a bone folder - had it for many years and could not remember what I used it for. Now I know! I have never heard of coiless safety pins. I must find them. Wow, how great are those!! Thanks so much!!

Loved this video! So happy I found Evelyn Wood. I am a novice, even though I have been sewing many years. Thank you so much for sharing what you know.

I actually bought the last one a while ago but didn't know how to use it so I'm glad you explained and demonstrated it!!

I did learn about new gadgets. Thanks so much. The one tool I used for many projects that I seldom hear about in the US is the Bodkin. So helpful, small enough for a travel sewing kit, and adaptable for other applications. Thanks again. :D

Never heard of the coil-less safety pins!!

OH WOW ! I love these secret tools. My sewing tool box is expanding rapidly as I watch your tutorials of course I’ve heard of spray starch, I’m 77 years old but I have never used it like a magic wand. Now that is magic. Thank you soooo much

Smack my head! I have had a hump jumper for years! I only ever used the pokey end. I never knew what the slot was used for! Thanks from a snowy Ottawa Canada 🇨🇦

@SBVancouver

Жыл бұрын

Me too!! 😂

Wooden knife holders, of which I have had several over the years are excellent substitutes for tailor clappers. I thought about adding a handle but they are not that clumsy to pick up, also mine have been made with unfinished wood so I don't worry about them damaging my fabrics.

I throughly enjoyed your video. I had never seen the non-coiled safety pins, a point turner I had, but not how to use the type you demonstrated; and having a second one for a dual purpose is pure genius! The hump jumper I have in my sewing machine tray, however I had not thought to use it the way you have and now I will. I have used a snag nab it on sweaters but never thought of using it on snagged clothing! Thank you for sharing your sewing secrets that helps make sewing more enjoyable 😊

Have you ever used a self-threading needle? If you don't have a "nab-it tool", this works pretty well for pulling threads through to the other side. I have a few of these left from the '70's. Thanks for reminding me about this trick!

@lunasmum6869

Жыл бұрын

When my grandmother died we found lots of things for sewing which have made a comeback! There was a snag catcher and several needle threaders amongst it. It was fascinating. These items would probably dated from the very early 1900s. It is amazing how items are brought out as NEW when, actually, they are not.

11:31 I am so grateful for these tips. I am a new sewist with a few garments made. My next garment will be with stretch fabric. I will definitely pickup some spray starch. Great idea! ❤thankyou so much for all of these great tips! ❤❤❤

I've had/used the loop turner and spray Starch for years. Anxious to find the others , esp snap grabber! LOVE all your tips!

I used the starch trick for the first time last week on some slippery kimono fabric. Oh my word. It's a game changer. In the meantime I am sourcing coilless safety pins in Canada

@jeannegayle6365

Жыл бұрын

Most industrial sewing suppliers will have the coiless safety pins. Several on line in Canada. Also check cloth diaper places. I sent dozens out to my DIL 19 years ago when I made real cloth diapers for my first grandchild.

The only one I hadn’t heard of was the snag repair. The safety pins and looper threader I had seen on your last video. I have had/used the rest. Thanks for bringing these out.

Thank you so much Evelyn, I really really enjoyed watching you take us through all those amazing sewing 🧵 tools. I really really know most of the m, the last one not so much. Please stay safe and well too xxx Mags ❤❤❤

Love the snag nabber and usually buy 3 or 4 when I see them as I have gifted them to several people including my sister and mom. So useful! I think I have a hump jumper but didn't know what it was for. I'll be looking in my grandmother's and my sewing boxes when I get home.

Love these tools! Did not know about the safety pin or using spray starch!

I just found your channel and I love it!! I just subscribed. I’m a self-taught sewist since I was 14 and am now a very young 72. I’ve sewed some part of almost every day since! It’s my passion! I’d never seen the coil-less safety pins - so cool!! I’ll definitely be getting some of those! The rest I either have, or have come up with my own version of. After over 50yrs of being a self-taught sewer there isn’t much I don’t own or haven’t invented myself😆! Happy sewing my new friend!

Wow! I had never heard of the over locker threaders! And the snag grabber… I had never known how to use one… or that I needed it. Thank you! ❤

I've never heard of the snag repair tool, but I've been using my loop turner on fabric snags and it works pretty well!

Glad to see you're doing well! Love your show. God bless you!

3 of them have been secrets tools to me and TY for sharing them with us 😄🥰

Thank you. I am amazed by these tools. Thank you for sharing

I always used the safety pins to turn loops ,but the loop turner I will be getting, and I love your help ,you video's are a life saver trying to get back into sewing after many many years ,thank you so much for making them!

I did not know about the snag-repair tool but I have used hand sewing needles to do the same function. Poke needle through, put the snag end through the eye, pull through. It can be a little exciting (poke ouch) to hold the pointy side on the underside of the fabric especially if the snag is fighting back. Your tool looks a bit safer!

My mother recently passed away and she was amazing at sewing. She was supposed to teach me but hadn't got to yet. Now I have all of her things and I'm trying to learn on my own. Thank you for this video! This video explained some of the things she had. There are still quite a few more that I have no idea about 😅 I'm sure I will figure them out, eventually.

I hadn't heard of the looper threaders for a serger, but as I have a Babylock with air-threading, don't really need them. I don't use spray starch as much as I should, so thanks for that tip. I have a snag fixer in with my sewing equipment, but realized it should probably be upstairs with my clothing. Thanks for the fun video!

I have a tiny latch hook tool that was used in war time to repair runs in ladies stockings. A seamstress could make money doing that since silk was rationed. Another idea for turning straps is to create a chain on the server and lay it between the layers before sewing the seam. When done just pull on the chain and it turns the strap. So easy. I never saw the snag tool, looper threader or coilless pins. We keep tiny crochet hook on hand. Enjoyed your video very much.

@janeyann8316

Ай бұрын

I saw a set of 6 crochet hooks all different sizes for £3 in The Works, and having just improvised turning a strap (a fabric mouse's tail) using a straw and struggling with a wooden chopstick and purple thang, I thought they might come in useful, and one day I might even want to teach myself to crochet. The thinnest crochet hook is thinner than the wooden chopstick so should work better going inside a straw. They are pretty jewel colours and for £3 I am sure I will find a use for them.

I had been using coins or folded material behind the presser foot but never thought of using one in front. This was a great secret to share. I made one by cutting a small Dollar Tree cutting mat and used it the same day I saw your video. Already improving my sewing life. Thanks!

I am loving the hump jumper and snag-nab-it - all sewing tools should have great silly names like these!

Thank you for the ideas. I have a loop turner & over locker needle & spray starch. I have always used a small end crochet hook for snags, but I am happy to see the snag repairs. They will be easier than the crochet hook. It will be on my next shopping spree for sewing items.

I have everything but the serger threader as I don’t own one. The second one is the snag needle and that one I am going to get. Very handy tool to have. Thank you Evelyn for sharing this video I feel like maybe I might know what I am doing after not sewing for so long you wonder but your videos remind me regularly that you don’t really forget just have to jump back into sewing and it will come back to you. I am loving learning about all the new materials and now to start practicing with them.😊

I've a loop turner. Love the look of the snag needle!

Love your channel. I'm an older sewer (is that a word, LOL), and I go stretches of not sewing anything. But when I do, I like to have all the right tools. Those were some pretty nice tools. Knew about about half, the tool to help thread my serger was a new one for me. I had the snag-damn-it thingy, but actually never could master it. Now I think I can. Great vid!

Thinking of you. 💖🥰 I'm so grateful for your detailed instructions in every video. Anytime I need advice for a sewing issue I come here. Your restyle advice is so inspirational. I have a lot of kerchiefs that I hope to add to some projects. Sending Love.

Thanks! Spray starch before sewing & the snag repair tool were new to me & will be useful!

I have never heard of any of these other than starch but not for this use. I always used a small crochet hook to get the loops through, love the snag it tool better, thank you so much!!

I just recently bought a drawstring threading tool and it's saved my life and hoodies!

Spray starch on difficult fabrics while sewing them together!! Mind blown. I’m so glad that I heard about that, and it makes total sense. Amazing!

Great tool tips thank you! Love the snag repair needle! Sewing over paper can also help with slipping the just tear it off xx

Thank you for this video, lots of great tools!