12 Days of Christmas - Day 3 December 27th 2017

Shelley

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is using my see her to do a rolled hem to finish the seams.

Eddie Stull

December 27, 2017

When my mom is busy sewing, I make dinner for the family. That’s a good tip anytime

Penny Sears

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to measure the person or doll you are sewing for and apply the measurements to the pattern and make any adjusts as needed. Don’t assume the patterns are going to fit.

Heather

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to use the ads from the newspaper that have the shiny paper to make copies of my pattern so they will stand up to multiple uses and the original is kept nice and stored away so you can use it later to make more copies

WyccanWytch

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is when you have ripped it out more than once. Put it aside for a little while. When you come back everything usually goes much smoother!"

tammy revlon

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to press as you construct, not just at the end. Doing this will give a professional finish to your outfit.

Roberta

December 27, 2017

The best sewing tip I learned from my Mother is to ALWAYS press your seams open before continuing to sew pieces together and then press the finished project well to make corners and hems look nice and crisp and more professional.

Donna

December 27, 2017

My favourite sewing tip is to sort all my fabric by colour and also by type (flannel, denim, etc). Since I usually use mostly cottons that is what I sort by colour and then I have larger bins to sort by type. It makes it much easier to find what I am looking for.

Laura

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is pin baste well, sew once. I love sewing doll clothes for 18" dolls.I collect trims, buttons, etc from clothes that are being discarded. Love to use on outfits.

sharon

December 27, 2017

When sewing with thin silky material use tissue paper under the fabric to help it feed through.

Grace J

December 27, 2017

Sew many wonderful tips, mostly known, but some new to me! Thank you. One thing I didn’t notice was, don’t try to quickly finish up a project when you are tired. It’s better to wait until after you’ve rested and usually goes much quicker when you are fresh (and you’re less likely to make time and resource consuming mistakes.

Grace

December 27, 2017

My sewing patterns are printed and inserted into plastic page sleeves then put into large 3 ring binders on a shelf for convenient storage. Once the pattern is used this is an easy way to keep the smaller pieces all together.

Karen

December 27, 2017

My Favorite sewing tip is when something is not working right stop and get a small piece of dark chocolate and some tea. When I return it works just fine.

Joyce

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is not really sewing but organizing my thread and bobbins. I have a thread rack but the spools are too big to also hold the bobbin on the dial unless I put the bobbin on the bottom and the thread spool on top. The rack is on a shelf above my sewing machine and the bobbins were a little harder to reach. So I extended the dial by cutting a straw in half and putting it over the dial for the spool and it generously holds both the thread spool and bobbin. I can even put two spools on the straw and still have room for the bobbin.

Sharon

December 27, 2017

I like to use square dowels from the hardware store to press tiny seams!

Karen G

December 27, 2017

My favorite seeing tip is that I like to make a lot of doll clothes from the same pattern assembly line style. I tend to cut them out assembly line style too. I always have many cut out before starting to see. So I use the plastic containers that have muffins in them that you get from the bakery at grocery store to store my assorted projects. They are clear so I can see the project but I also write the pattern number and view number or store the pattern with them.

Elaine

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is to print pieces on cardstock and then laminate. The pieces last so much longer.

Aime

December 27, 2017

My favorite trick is to after sewing the pattern pieces together to adjust the item on a doll matching my grand daughters doll before ironing.

Nellie Brownlow

December 27, 2017

Checking measurements to make sure the pattern will fit. When using a new material your not familiar with, get enough to experiment with so that you have enough to make your project.

Ruth

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to copy only the pattern pieces for doll clothes. Read the instructions from an iPad while sewing. This saves paper and also storage space for patterns.

Sheri Thomas

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is using iron on interfacing for facings. Sew fronts together then turn and press and you have a great finished edge for facing.

Janene Grace

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing technique. Marking different sized sewing machine needles with a color and keep them in a cushion. One=used once, two lines=used twice, etc….

Stella

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to cut out the pieces for doll clothes out of multiple fabrics at once. This way I can make a bunch quickly assembly line style. It is also helpful to have a helper when sewing!

Evelyn

December 27, 2017

My favourite sewing trick is to buy quilting fat quarters to make extra special items or purchase clothing from thrift stores to recycle. Such as bathing suits (lycra)

Darcy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is take it slow and pay attention to details.

Mary

December 27, 2017

How lovely! They remind me of the prom dress I made for myself in highschool. My favorite sewing tip is to make it yourself to save money instead of buying a new dress.

Darlene

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is using scrap material to make doll clothes. “

Sandy

December 27, 2017

Happiness is a FINISHED garment. Start with a simple sleeveless bodice with a gathered skirt. ALWAYS do a fitting before closing the opening (Velcro, snaps, zipper, etc.). Never ASSUME that the garment will fit. (Some stuffed dolls need to diet more than others especially around the waist.) I always add a little extra fabric allowance for a back opening to allow for problems. Can always trim at fitting time. Trims can change the “plain to fancy” with the addition of lace at the hem, small buttons down the front, patch pockets, etc. Contrasting fabric for bodice/skirt is always a show stopper.

A great place to get ideas for the simple bodice/skirt dress is on Pixie Faire, Pinterest, AG catalogues, etc.

Sometimes I tend to start a new project before I finish the one(s) I’m working on, especially if I have just downloaded a new pattern on line. So, for me I do best at 100% finishing a garment before going on to the next. The exception is any handwork I can take with me on down time. Thanks, Sandy

Mary Ann Barrett

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is Printing the patterns so I can make the outfits with different materials at one time. “

Coralee Hines

December 27, 2017

I saw all of my favorite tips listed already – cut once, after measuring twice; cut pattern pieces for several of the same outfit (different fabrics of course), and sew all together assembly style; and read through all the directions before starting a project to be certain you have everything needed.
Please add me to the contest even without anything original to add….

Laura

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing trick is to use fine tulle when hemming chiffon that frays. Much easier than trying to do a rolled hem. Use a 1 to 1/2 " wide strip of tulle and sew on the right side of hem. Then turn the tulle capturing the edge and sew again on the inside. You have captured the edge between the tulle. It is nearly transparent and will be resistant to little hands taking dresses on an off. Use a color that will not show or matches the chiffon.

Mary

December 27, 2017

I favorite sewing tip to use a light starch when doing my pressing so hems are easier to sew.

Lee

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to read all these other great tips on Pixie Faire, and cut/paste to save them in a list under various categories, like TOOLS, PATTERNS, FABRICS, PROCEDURES, etc. Printing them out to then keep by my sewing machine serves as a reminder of all the great advice gleaned here.

Ashley

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is I cut the patterns while my kids are sleeping so I dont wake them with the sewing machine. We they wake up its ready to sew.

Wendy G

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to measure twice and cut once!

Jackie

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip or trick when making doll clothes is to use the soft Velcro and cut it in half lengthwise for a narrow, smooth closure.

Laura Olinger

December 27, 2017

My favorite new tip is to get a set of forceps clamps to use for turning small items inside out. They will clamp tightly onto the item and you can get them easily down into the tube and then gently pull to turn the item. Works much better them a safety pin or just your fingers.

Megan

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip… is iron, iron, iron…. many times i get in a hurry and i skip it, only to sew a seam that doesnt lay properly or that puckers, so I have to rip it out, when if I would have just pressed in the first place, it would have saved me time and headaches.

Patricia

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make more than one doll outfit at a time and assembly line sew them, so they are finished at the same time. Works well when sewing for two granddaughters at the same time.

Linda

December 27, 2017

Have everything cut out, laid out in order to be done (including trims), and always finish seams. I also keep my patterns in plastic binders with a clip on materials used with pictures of the finished doll clothes.

MYRA

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to press, press, press. Always press before cutting fabric and after sewing a seam. Many “oops” are eased out and hardly noticeable after pressing.

Kristen

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to iron hems well before sewing. Also, adding a little bit of lace or ribbon to the hem makes it look a lot cuter!

Pamela Ryan

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is. Ironing is a must! Makes everything look so much better!

Alice

December 27, 2017

always wash and dry your material first, then when you sew always iron iron iron

Sly

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is…if you’re working with invisible thread and having trouble threading the needle (since you can barely see the eye OR the thread), try coloring the end of the invisible thread with a felt-tip marker. It makes life SO much easier, and invisible thread works great if you’re using two different fabrics and want to be sure the thread doesn’t show on either one. ((I used it when making my son’s dragon costume for Halloween as the wings were made with two very different fabrics – one for the front and one for the back of the wings.))

Regina Jeffery

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is when all else fails ask Nana! My wonderful MIL has been sewing forever. She is actually the one who taught me to see. When you are stuck just ask.

Karen Clark

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to alway press your seams and iron all of your sewing pieces before you constuct them. Ex: collars, sleeves, bodices, pleats, hems, etc. I learned this from a woman that I took sewing lessons from many years ago. She use to say that having good pressing techniques makes a big difference as to how your garment will look when it is finished!

AnnCP

December 27, 2017

My amazing tip – washable glue sticks!!

connie

December 27, 2017

I don’t have a favorite sewing tip or trick I am just trying to get everything orangnized since moving into a smaller place and losing my personal space(sewing room}.

Susan C.

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to avoid cutting the pattern, I buy tissue paper at the Dollar Store and trace the pattern on it. I write everything on the traced piece just like it was the original pattern.I have a nice pattern piece to work with and the pattern is still in tact.

Deborah

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip for doll clothes is hem the sleeves and pant legs before sewing the side seams. Best tip ever!

Virginia Janzig

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to sew a wide zigzag stitch over a thin cord or elastic to create a gather. Such a time saver!

Glenda

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to cut fusible tape in half to iron where I need. Although I am just learning! Pixie Faire patterns always are easy to follow!

Donna

December 27, 2017

My favorite trick is to sew a piece of twine into the casing to make it easier to turn.

Jeannette

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is, read other peoples sewing tips watch videos. You learn so much from other peoples tips and tricks. Keep organized and take a break when you need to.

Gwendoline

December 27, 2017

My favourite sewing tip is to always keep your sewing neat and tidy, cut of ends of sewing cotton and keep edges straight and even. Just joined Pixie Faire and so enjoying looking at your patters.

Debbie

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to put all your scraps in a bag. Save until there is enough to stuff a pillow for a pet bed for the local animal shelter.

Darleen

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to have plenty of ribbons, buttons, lace, etc in all sizes and colors so when I am sewing late at night (and the stores are closed) I have choices.

Nancy

December 27, 2017

My favourite tip or trick is to layer different patterned fabric on top of each other (usually 2 to 4 layers depending on fabric) to save cutting time when I make multiples of the same pattern.

Marge

December 27, 2017

If you are having trouble threading a needle, hold a piece of white paper behind the needle. It makes it easier to see the needle eye.

Karen

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is always have everything cut out and ready when you sit down to sew.

marian

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to save all the beautiful ribbons that come around towels, packages, blankets, etc.. They will come in handy when you are making doll clothes and cost you nothing. I roll them around a crayon or pencil and tape the end to keep them organized.

Deb K

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to put the small bits and pieces of thread, fabric etc in a open weave bag. (like from a turkey etc) and put it outside in the spring for the birds to use as nesting materials. Also when sewing if things are not going well, just walk away and come back later. You will have a different view of your project and things will go much better.

Cheryl

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to enjoy yourself, and of course having your supplies figured out and organized before you start. I sewed a lot when my children were young, and now after many years of not really sewing much I am getting into sewing doll clothes, and sometimes matching outfits for my granddaughters and their 18" dolls. I am having so much fun! I am finding I sometimes need to adjust the patterns, so it is a good idea to test things out with some scrap fabrics first. Now that the holidays are over, I have selected a cute pattern for beginners that I think my 10 year old granddaughter will enjoy learning to sew with!

Marion

December 27, 2017

Check the project to see if it is for a beginner(if you are) or for a veteran sewer.
Marion

Ginny Bilz

December 27, 2017

Since I got my serger, I have re-learned how useful basting is. Now I baste anything I think will be tricky, whether or not I’m using the serger

Marilyn

December 27, 2017

Before you start a project check all the supplies you need. It is better to shop before you start and don’t have the things you need.
Marilyn

Joan

December 27, 2017

Have everything you need for the project laid out ,
Joan

Barbara

December 27, 2017

My best tip is to fold over the side of the skirt opening that is stitched before sewing on to the bodice – to give a better looking finish.

Laura Bagaason

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip, as of late, is using those lone socks to make into leggings for dolls! I hate lost socks, so this makes me so happy to recycle. Also, love recycling worn clothing/fabric into potential doll clothes.
Enjoying all the great tips ??

Pixy

December 27, 2017

Measure twice and cut once. It applies to all types of making from sewing to home improvement projects.

Judith Abbott

December 27, 2017

My tip would be to have a fresh needle of the correct type and size and the correct thread.

Cindy

December 27, 2017

always save a scrap of fabric to take with you when shopping for thread and other notions(buttons, zipper) is using fabric from your home stash

Melynda

December 27, 2017

I’m sure it’s not new to many but using a safety pin to help turn a narrow tube "right-side-out was a great trick

Sue

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make a square corner when fabric is turned right-side-out, I 3 -45* angle stitches at my corner turn, oddly enough it creates a sharp corner for collars and such.

Amy Looney

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to batch tasks…cut out material for several projects at once. Once you get the hang of sewing the pattern once, it will be so much easier to make multiples of the same pattern!

Britty

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip comes from my Mammaw: read the instructions, throw them away, then trust your instincts. It’s never failed me!

Evelyn Perez

December 27, 2017

I am fairly new to sewing/making items for dolls; so I just make things out of scrape material first to make sure I do it right. When I am satisfied, I organize everything I need and make item without a hitch most of the time.

Joy S

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to use an iron to correct stretched out knit fabric.

Diane Goff

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to set aside 30 minutes a day for sewing. It is amazing how much I accomplish as the minutes add up.

PattyBischoff

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to use a small wallpaper seam roller to do quickie seam presses at my machine. Also use a small applique iron for pressing small parts.

Jean Simrose

December 27, 2017

My favorite tip is to save all of the scraps from sewing my clothes to make doll clothes.

Sarah Combs

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing trick is buying fat quarters st Walmart for super cheap, they have tons to choose from.

Donna

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to copy favorite patterns on heavier paper and save original for copying if necessary.

Donna

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to copy favorite patterns on heavier paper and save original for copying if necessary.

Linda

December 27, 2017

I’ve found that if I have more than one thing I’m sewing, I can just slip the next one in under the needle as soon as I finish the first one, without cutting the thread. It helps move the project along faster, and saves thread. I then just cut the little threads that connect the pieces apart after I’m done. It cuts about 15 to 20 minutes off my time when I make several of one item.

Cathy

December 27, 2017

my best tip always have extra needles and really be in the mood to sew nothing goes right if you are not….. you can do anything if you are

Karyn

December 27, 2017

A favorite sewing tip i have to use regular printing paper to put underneath your fabric when embroidering. Pieces turn out with much smoother edging. Adhesive sprays are also a huge help when embroidering together individual pieces right sides facing outward.

Carol

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to keep everything you’ll need handy and have good lighting.

Sonya

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to use a scrap of fabric from the garment to test my stitches first and then use it to sew off of to start the seam. It gives me something to grab hold of to keep the fabric from getting pulled down in the bobbin area.

Lani Smith

December 27, 2017

My favorite trick is to make and sew together two matching bodices and sew them together with right sides together. It saves having to deal with facings!

Sheryl

December 27, 2017

my favorite sewing tip…if you use want to use a tripple or double stitch lengthen the stitch a bit it sews much nicer and catches the stitches better as you sew and it gives you less of a headache

Annette

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is stocking up fabris and little buttons, ribbons, etc. at out wonderful fabric shop sales and then I have what I need when i want to start sewing!

Helen

December 27, 2017

When I start to sew a dress i have near me accesories and this gives me a clue on how I want this dress to look different.

Nancy

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip—keep a lint roller (or pet hair roller) handy to pick up snipped threads.

Marsha

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip is to inspect your work after every sewing step.

Hollea

December 27, 2017

“My favorite sewing tip or trick is to make a copy of the pattern in a reusable material so that the original stays intact and the new one can be used over and over without damage. With the tissue patterns I have placed on clear mac tac to preserve the patterns in original condition and lasts for years and years and even generations as I am using them now for my granddaughters.

Jerri Fox

December 27, 2017

I am new to wanting to sew for dolls, all three of my granddaughters love dressing up their dolls so I figured it was time to start learning. Reading the hints is very mind opening.

Kat

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to try and make everything original. You can alter patterns just a little bit to your liking, or take inspiration and make your own patterns! Don’t just try to copy the pictures on the pattern exactly, try and make it your own and just use the pictures for inspo. :)

Guyloup

December 27, 2017

My favorite sewing tip or trick is to slip a piece of parchment baking paper under the fabric when I start sewing a very small piece of fabric, so that it is not" eaten "by the hole in the sewing machine plate .