12 Days of Christmas - Day 9 Giveaway! (Jan. 2, 2022)

Sylvia

January 02, 2022

It is all about pressing, your iron is your friend

Allison T

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to press and steam a lot!! It makes seams look so much nicer in the final product.

Rachel

January 02, 2022

Press/iron as you go. Pressing seams makes sewing curves easier.

Stephanie G

January 02, 2022

My best sewing 12 Days of Christmas – Day 9 Giveaway! (Jan. 2, 2022)

Welcome to DAY 9 of our 12 Days of Christmas celebration!

For our 9th Day Of Christmas giveaway, we are doing a GIVEAWAY of one $100 JOANN Gift Card to one lucky winner. The gift card can be used towards any item available on their website or retail location. Woot, Woot!

Maybe you’ll use your gift card to buy a few supplies to use on your next pattern hack! Need some ideas? Well, we have a full collection of Pattern Hacks tutorials available in Sewing With Cinnamon! You’ll find them sprinkled through many of the courses!

Here’s a little more about pattern hacks, from the SWC course:

There are so many pattern hack video tutorials available in Sewing With Cinnamon and the new platform make it so easy to watch at any time from anywhere!

Hoodie Denim Jacket
Fur Lined Denim Jacket
Fold Over Waistband Mini Skirt
Pleated Hight Waisted Jeans
Silk Road Dress – LJ Hack and the Snowman Appliqué Hack
Staw Tote Pattern Hack
Simple Sleeves Pattern hacks
Banded Beret
Classic Peacoat (no pleats in back)
Koala Hoodie (Crafty Lil Turkey)
Holiday Dress – Creating A Ruched Bodice
Blossom-Starlight Gala Mash-up
So-Cal Beach Vibes
and so many more…
Have you explored the new site and full set of mobile apps yet?

Sewing With Cinnamon has just gotten a huge upgrade! We so excited to announce that you can find our app on all streaming services! You heard me right! Roku, AppleTV, Fire TV, IOS apps, Android Apps, and Google Play!

If you haven’t joined yet – go take a look! It’s free for the first 7 days!
www.SewingWithCinnamon.com

Explore the content! Try it out! Download an app and see how Easy it is to use!

Existing SWC members already have access, just check our email to find the emailed invite to the new platform :)

ENTER TO WIN A $100 JOANN Gift Card!

To enter this week’s contest, simply click the link below and then enter through the giveaway widget at the bottom of the blog post, there are many things you can do to earn multiple entry points!

Contest Details: You enter through the entry form that is embedded on this page and appears just below this paragraph, if you don’t see it, be sure to visit the page from your desktop or an alternate browser such as Google Chrome. It may not appear on all mobile devices. The complete rules and entry details appear on the entry form. This is not a comment contest – in other words, leaving a comment on the bottom of this page is not an official entry method. The only required entry method is to leave a comment under this post and then confirm that you did it in the contest widget. One person will receive the gift card. You can enter once, or gain multiple entries by completing the other entry methods and increase your chances of winning. Please review all Terms and Conditions on the giveaway page before entering. While we wish we could run this contest everywhere, for legal reasons it is only open to eligible residents of the U.S. and Canada, not including Rhode Island. This contest is exclusively endorsed by Pixie Faire and Sewing With Cinnamon.

Commenting below and confirming your entry in the widget above gives you one entry method, the other methods are listed in the widget above, be sure to enter in as many ways as you can to receive the maximum amount of entries to win the prize!

Entry method #1, comment on this blog post finishing the following sentence…

“My best sewing tip is ________.” Tell us why :)

Comments must be left (on this blog post) by midnight (pacific) on Sunday, 1/2/2022.

The widget will be updated the following day with the first name of the winner. The winner will be contacted at the email provided when entering.

Additionally, by commenting, you agree to allow us to use your comments for future promotional activities. In other words – we might quote you when we are putting together new testimonial pages. If you’re not okay with that – don’t leave a comment :)

Okay, good luck, and if we’ve forgotten anything we will modify and/or update this post as needed.

We hope you enjoy our 12 Days Of Christmas Celebration. We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support and wish you a happy holiday season, and a terrific new year!

Happy New Year!

Cinnamon & Pixie Faire Team

100 Comments
Tina
Tina
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip, is to take a break when frustrated.

Patti Z
Patti Z
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is be prepared. If you are making something from a new pattern, read the instructions completely first. Don’t rely on your instincts and past experience to make the project step by step as you go. Always gather up all the materials you are wanting to use including the tools, buttons, snaps, zippers, etc so when you start sewing everything is at the ready. This way you don’t wasting time once you start the project. Always give yourself the appropriate time frame to finish the project. Nothing worse than having to rush near the end to finish the project on time. And always remember in the end it doesn’t have to be perfect it just has to be made with LOVE.

Elise Arseneau
Elise Arseneau
January 02, 2022
Best advice I ever got was: as soon as you realize you’re making a mistake, STOP! Fix what’s wrong, or you’ll spend the rest of the project trying to accommodate it.

Marcy Mahle
Marcy Mahle
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to cover my patterns with clear contact paper before cutting out at least on the top side. This is especially good for patterns that are used over and over again.

Michele Williams
Michele Williams
January 02, 2022
My sewing tip is to use quality thread. It’s better for your machine and it’s a joy to sew with.

Laurie
Laurie
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to keep the insides of your sewing machine clean. After every project, use your brushes, vacuum, and oil before your machine tells you to. This will make your sewing machine very happy and you’ll be happy when you don’t have problems as a result of lint buildup on the inside of your sewing machine.

Kathy
Kathy
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip, use microtex needles.

Dawn
Dawn
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use an iron!!!

Renee B.
Renee B.
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is prewash your fabric. Just put it in a warm rinse and then the dryer. There is nothing worse than fabric shrinking or fabric color running after your project is done. Certain dyes are much stronger than others, like red or green. I’ve heard some people say that their quilt or doll outfit will never be washed. You cannot count on that. Accidents, like spills, do happen. Some people like the “new fabric” feel, there are many chemicals on that “new” fabric. Just iron as you sew and one can use spray starch if necessary to give the fabric “body”. I also serge all my fabric before prewashing so I know what has been prewashed on the shelf. Your thread on the serger doesn’t have to match your fabric.

GIN
GIN
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to measure! make sure you have all the right measurements, hemming and other fancy add ons included!

GIN
GIN
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to measure! make sure you have all the right measurements, hemming and other fancy add ons included!

Amy
Amy
January 02, 2022
Read, Read, read the pattern. It saves lots of frustration and time in the long run!!!

Fran R
Fran R
January 02, 2022
My favorite tip for success has always been “Baste, baste and baste.” As a high school sewing teacher I reminded the students that a few minutes of basting is less time consuming than time spent picking out. Difficult seams, slippery fabrics, matching patterns such as stripes or shapes and zippers. I love to hand baste while watching classic movies.

Anna S
Anna S
January 02, 2022
My sewing tip is to keep all the cut fabric, trim, pattern pieces and extra fabric for your dolly sewing project in a gallon ziplock bag (or other reusable container). It keeps small pieces from being lost in your work area, and makes it easy to prep multiple projects and switch between them. I usually have two or three project bags going at a time.

Mendy
Mendy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is use the little plastic clips instead of pins. Makes it so much easier. :)

Kris Emmerich
Kris Emmerich
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is read directions, take your time, and make sure you have all the supplies. Measure, measure, measure, don’t guess. Nothing slows you down more from finishing your pattern then missing elements!

judy
judy
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to put a piece of painter’s tape with the adhesive facing out so you have a place to add the bits of thread as you cut them off. Keeps the sewing area clean.

Faith
Faith
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to have your ironing board and iron set up & ready to press

Linda A C
Linda A C
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use safety pins instead of straight pins when I need to pin something because I was always sticking myself or scratching myself with the straight pins.

Denise Darby
Denise Darby
January 02, 2022
my sewing tip is to invest in a quarter inch foot. Well worth the time.

SewLynn
SewLynn
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is … press, press, press! Pressing makes the difference between looking ‘home made’ and professional for any garment but is especially important with the smaller scale of doll clothing. Mini-irons and craft irons are great to get into the smaller areas.

Julie
Julie
January 02, 2022
I have a couple favorite sewing tips to share. I mark grain line arrows and stretch direction arrows on my paper pattern pieces so I don’t make errors cutting out & waste fabric. As I have gotten older I realize I need more light on my sewing area. Try this if you have problems sewing darker threads on darker fabrics.

Diana
Diana
January 02, 2022
My sewing tip is to keep a piece of scrap fabric handy and always start a project by sewing on the scrap. Then slide your project under the pressure foot, keeping the threads attached to the scrap piece, then sew. Cut the threads once finished. This keeps the threads from bunching up under your first stitches on your project and makes a much neater seam. If you have a lot if different pieces for your project, you can also just stream them all together like that, always backstitching at each end, of course. Quilters do this all the time. It saves time and thread as well.

Heather
Heather
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to write “Fabric Only” with permanent marker on all your fabric scissors so that family members don’t use them to cut other materials.

Laura
Laura
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is about your patterns. I have over 200 so I bought sheet protectors to put the pattern cover sheet in front and the pattern pieces behind it. They are stored in notebook by doll size and pattern type on my bookshelf.

Moana
Moana
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use those wonderful plastic clips instead of pins. I hate getting stuck in the tender fingertips area When I’m happily sewing along. And my other best sewing tip is to use one of those lint rollers underneath your sewing machine to pick up all those little threads that somehow didn’t make it to the garbage can. That saves a lot of wear and tear on my vacuum roller.

Linda
Linda
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip fir doll clothes is to sew all trims before the side seams or gathering.

Pam R
Pam R
January 02, 2022
My best tip, when sewing doll clothes is to iron, iron, iron. If you spend time sewing, do your best work towards a finished outfit. Ironing makes a big difference.

Zandra
Zandra
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to take your time while sewing. I never get great results when I rush through a project.

Laura
Laura
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use hemostats to turn small things right side out.

Carol
Carol
January 02, 2022
My tips have already been given, but there is no substitute for reading directions ahead of time and pressing well along the way.

Laura
Laura
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is using a coffee filter under knits. It makes it so/sew much easier!

Linda Linzey
Linda Linzey
January 02, 2022
My sewing tip is to keep a seam reaper close. We all make mistakes sometimes and it helps to have it handy and close. The sooner you get it undone, the sooner you can get back to making something beautiful.

Rebecca
Rebecca
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip would be to use a walking foot with thick or knit fabric

Colleen
Colleen
January 02, 2022
My best tip is when sewing a new pattern, to read ALL the instructions at least 2 or 3 times to make sure you understand them. As well as have all the supplies you will need handy. I have found this to be a great time saver as well as keeping the frustration level low

Amy W
Amy W
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use pinking shears to clip curves. It saves time compared to individually cutting tiny triangles.

Theresa Pasquale
Theresa Pasquale
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to watch/read all the Pixie Faire sewing tips!!!🤗

Mary Jo
Mary Jo
January 02, 2022
Keep your sewing area as neat & clean as possible while working on your project. This helps you stay organized, and you won’t have a huge mess to clean up afterwards.

Tommie
Tommie
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to dedicate a time to sew. Don’t multitask. By being distracted, I find I make many mistakes and need to remove stitches and resew.
Another favorite tip I have is use sharp needles AND pins.

Rebecca
Rebecca
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to read and then reread the entire pattern directions so you are familiar with the steps. Then we you read it as you see it makes more sense.

Dianne G.
Dianne G.
January 02, 2022
My sewing tip is to clean your machine often and especially around the feed dogs and bobbin area. Then put in the right needle for the fabric you are using. You will have far less frustrations with your sewing.

Brandy
Brandy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to have patience. Nothing every runs perfectly and little mistakes happen. Few happen if you are patient and don’t rush through what you are doing though.

Nessie
Nessie
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use sewing clips to hold fabric together on some projects instead of pins.

Cynthia W.
Cynthia W.
January 02, 2022
My favorite tip is to start a project with a new needle to make sure it is sharp and has no burrs.

Sparkle
Sparkle
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is “the seam ripper is your friend”. This bit of advice has saved me much frustration and feelings of failure. Now I just look at the need to rip as a second chance to do it right.

Kay
Kay
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to keep you sewing machine clean and oiled. It just makes the machine run so much better, and it’s better for the machine too!

Janie
Janie
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting any project.

Sam
Sam
January 02, 2022
I guess my sewing tip would be, always use more pins then you think you need. While it might take longer in the beginning, there is a nice finish at the end

marlene
marlene
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is iron your fabric before you cut!

Tamara G
Tamara G
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to iron and press your project frequently! Start with freshly pressed fabric for the most accurate cutting of pattern pieces. And press your project at every step along the way. If it’s something too tiny to easily iron, steam and finger press. Taking this extra time and attention will result in a garment that is easier to handle and sew. And it will simply look better!

Bl
Bl
January 02, 2022
I have enjoyed all the tips. I am not sure I have another one to add but I do think I get the best results when I use good quality fabric and thread. The best thread is a treat to sew. It seems $ but there is a lot of thread on each spool. Thank you Pixiefaire for all the tutorials and patterns.

Lory
Lory
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is: Try to pick a quiet time without interruptions and if you are having problems with sewing something……relax and breath, you will figure it out. You can always google it. And have fun!

Marjory
Marjory
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip, or one of them at least, is to use fusible thread along the turn line when sewing tiny hems on sheer fabrics.

EV
EV
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to never stop experimenting. Keeping it playful, making things your own. Take up the courage to try the “impossible,” its where the magic happens, or the deepest learning happens for the next magic.

LindaHH
LindaHH
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to have your iron and ironing board handy when you sew.

Kari L. Bjorklund
Kari L. Bjorklund
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to cut out several projects at a time-it is so nice to keep creating after one project is done, and then another, until it’s times to cut some more projects out!

Janice
Janice
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is serge and iron seams as you go.

Shirley Camidge
Shirley Camidge
January 02, 2022
You MUST use sharp scissors. A dedicated pair makes the top of the list.

Kimberly C
Kimberly C
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to iron as you go

Melody
Melody
January 02, 2022
My best tip is to make sure you are using the right fabric for the pattern and not to get frustrated when it doesn’t work out.

Debra
Debra
January 02, 2022
My best tip is to always start with a new needle when sewing fine fabrics. It helps keep the snags away.

Jo
Jo
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use a coffee filter under hard to sew fabrics, or when beginning a seam. It keeps the fabric from getting caught in the feed dog, tears away easily, and leaves relatively clean seams with little paper to deal with. I also use the filters when sewing tight curves. The filters can be purchased at a dollar store.

Peggy
Peggy
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is when sewing knits you should use a a small piece of stabilizer (I also have used coffee filters) underneath your knit at the beginning of your seam. Start on the stabilizer and continue onto the knit. When you are done just tear away the stabilizer. This keeps your knit from being pulled down into the bobbin area.

MARY
MARY
January 02, 2022
Use a chopstick to guide fabric/trims when sewing in tight spots. Saves you from sewing your finger!

Vicki J.
Vicki J.
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to put away things as soon as you are done using them. Throw away the leftover scraps of fabric. Put away the buttons, threads, pattern pieces, etc. Don’t let things sit till later. It’s nice to be able to come to a nice clean, neat sewing area when you want to work on something.

Paula Machnik
Paula Machnik
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting so you know what to expect at every state of the project.

Paula Machnik
Paula Machnik
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting so you know what to expect at every state of the project.

Janice
Janice
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to keep learning by trying different types of sewing. The last courses that I’ve taken are bagmaking and bra makiing and fitting. I’ve learned so much particularly where to source supplies for these types of sewing.

Sharon Thomas
Sharon Thomas
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to enjoy the journey. I find taking my time and enjoying what I am doing reduces the errors on my part. Some days, I am lucky to get one seam done but my finished project is generally one I can proud of.

Greta K
Greta K
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to use the right needle for the fabric you’re sewing on and to change the needle after four hours of sewing, at least.

Lyn K
Lyn K
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to cut the pattern accurately, gather all the pieces, place in a ziplock bag along with the notions and trim. I do this for several patterns at a time, then take my time to sew each project. I place a note of tips for sewing in the bag. It’s like a prepackaged kit, ready to go.

Gracia Marks
Gracia Marks
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is also given in many above. Press, press and press again. The iron is as important as the sewing machine for a great finish.

Robyn
Robyn
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to get thoroughly organized before you start. Read through any instructions, have your plan of attack, get all the supplies you think you need etc. Of course, I always end up needing something I didn’t anticipate. lol

Jocelyne
Jocelyne
January 02, 2022
My favourite sewing tip: measure twice, cut once.

Lexi
Lexi
January 02, 2022
When you get frustrated, stop and take deep breaths!

Nancy
Nancy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is change your sewing machine needle often. Sharp needles prevent slot of problems.

Ilana
Ilana
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to make sure your needle is sharp!

Carla
Carla
January 02, 2022
Read through all the instructions before starting, keep your material/supplies well organized and always press.

Shushana
Shushana
January 02, 2022
Why for my tip above is so you don’t finish a garment or project only to have it shrink later.

Nancy S.
Nancy S.
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use pinking shears instead of clipping curves, especially on small doll necklines and sleeves! Saves lots of time, and finishes the seam at the same time.

Morgan
Morgan
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to always have fun! Don’t let yourself get discouraged, take time to walk away and come back to it later. Just have fun!

time2smile
time2smile
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to use lightweight dancer/skater skin-tone knit for lining and facing doll clothes. The knit doesn’t ravel, it generally doesn’t show up if a tiny bit of it doesn’t get turned all the way inside; it doesn’t add as much bulk to the seam areas. I used this recently to line a bodice where the neck and armhole lines are sewn and then the entire thing turned right side out through the shoulders. The lining was stretchy enough to allow the turn without much fuss.

Nanita Adams
Nanita Adams
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tips is wash and press fabric before cutting.

Shushana
Shushana
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to preshrink your washable fabric and notions before starting your project.

anita
anita
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is: if you are sewing multiples of a pattern or two or more similar patterns, batch sew the pieces from each outfit. Sewing goes faster and you improve your skills with each group of pieces.

CAROL
CAROL
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to have a clean sewing space. It unclutters your mind and makes it heaven to sew!

Judy
Judy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip has been from reading all the comments and getting new ideas.

Margaret Miller
Margaret Miller
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to press, press, press.

Kimberly
Kimberly
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is for beginners is just keep going! I’m still new and each one of my new projects us better than the last!

Kathleen Stull
Kathleen Stull
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is practice makes perfect

Amy
Amy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to not use a cheap machine! Spend a little more for quality, or even buy a used machine from a good brand so your money goes further. Cheap machines will have all kinds of issues with tension, etc, and will drive you crazy.

My mom got me hooked on Pfaff machines because of the be IDT/integrated walking foot that they have, and I can’t imagine using anything else.

Pat
Pat
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to always have a new needle when starting a project.

James
James
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is press, press, press – use the iron, even on knits (sometimes, especially on knits!).

Mary Brock
Mary Brock
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to relax!! Don’t get so hung up on being perfect to then not enjoy of creating. Give yourself grace everyone makes a mistake now and then, so when it happens and it will, let it roll off getting back to creating.

Dorothy
Dorothy
January 02, 2022
“My best sewing tip is to Press, Press, and more Pressing. By pressing your seams it will save you time having to "Rip it, Rip it using the frog technique. I have learned many new sewing tips from Pixie faire patterns and look forward to Sewing with Cinnamon new website for new ones. Thank you.

Janet
Janet
January 02, 2022
“My best sewing tip is continuous sewing. Start the next seam without cutting the thread, just keep sewing. Saves a lot of thread.

Cathy
Cathy
January 02, 2022
My favorite sewing tip is to switch to a single hole needle plate when sewing seams in doll clothes. It keeps the tiny pieces from being pulled down into the bobbin area.

Tamara
Tamara
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is for slippery fabrics like lycra. Cut out your pattern pieces from freezer paper and lightly iron them onto the fabric. It makes the pieces so much easier to cut out! They will work a few times before wearing out, if you are making multiples.

Jennifer
Jennifer
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is to keep doing the math. For, circumference/radius math, I often do it multiple times for the same measurement that I’m trying to figure out because somehow I’ll come up with the wrong answer the first time. Guess that’s why they say, “Measure twice, cut once.”

Nancy
Nancy
January 02, 2022
My best sewing tip is take it one step at a time because you can do it !! Just read directions carefully 💕

Stephanie G

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is take it one step at a time because you can do it !! Just read directions carefully 💕

Tina

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip, is to take a break when frustrated.

Patti Z

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is be prepared. If you are making something from a new pattern, read the instructions completely first. Don’t rely on your instincts and past experience to make the project step by step as you go. Always gather up all the materials you are wanting to use including the tools, buttons, snaps, zippers, etc so when you start sewing everything is at the ready. This way you don’t wasting time once you start the project. Always give yourself the appropriate time frame to finish the project. Nothing worse than having to rush near the end to finish the project on time. And always remember in the end it doesn’t have to be perfect it just has to be made with LOVE.

Elise Arseneau

January 02, 2022

Best advice I ever got was: as soon as you realize you’re making a mistake, STOP! Fix what’s wrong, or you’ll spend the rest of the project trying to accommodate it.

Marcy Mahle

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to cover my patterns with clear contact paper before cutting out at least on the top side. This is especially good for patterns that are used over and over again.

Michele Williams

January 02, 2022

My sewing tip is to use quality thread. It’s better for your machine and it’s a joy to sew with.

Laurie

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to keep the insides of your sewing machine clean. After every project, use your brushes, vacuum, and oil before your machine tells you to. This will make your sewing machine very happy and you’ll be happy when you don’t have problems as a result of lint buildup on the inside of your sewing machine.

Kathy

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip, use microtex needles.

Dawn

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use an iron!!!

Renee B.

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is prewash your fabric. Just put it in a warm rinse and then the dryer. There is nothing worse than fabric shrinking or fabric color running after your project is done. Certain dyes are much stronger than others, like red or green. I’ve heard some people say that their quilt or doll outfit will never be washed. You cannot count on that. Accidents, like spills, do happen. Some people like the “new fabric” feel, there are many chemicals on that “new” fabric. Just iron as you sew and one can use spray starch if necessary to give the fabric “body”. I also serge all my fabric before prewashing so I know what has been prewashed on the shelf. Your thread on the serger doesn’t have to match your fabric.

GIN

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to measure! make sure you have all the right measurements, hemming and other fancy add ons included!

GIN

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to measure! make sure you have all the right measurements, hemming and other fancy add ons included!

Amy

January 02, 2022

Read, Read, read the pattern. It saves lots of frustration and time in the long run!!!

Fran R

January 02, 2022

My favorite tip for success has always been “Baste, baste and baste.” As a high school sewing teacher I reminded the students that a few minutes of basting is less time consuming than time spent picking out. Difficult seams, slippery fabrics, matching patterns such as stripes or shapes and zippers. I love to hand baste while watching classic movies.

Anna S

January 02, 2022

My sewing tip is to keep all the cut fabric, trim, pattern pieces and extra fabric for your dolly sewing project in a gallon ziplock bag (or other reusable container). It keeps small pieces from being lost in your work area, and makes it easy to prep multiple projects and switch between them. I usually have two or three project bags going at a time.

Mendy

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is use the little plastic clips instead of pins. Makes it so much easier. :)

Kris Emmerich

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is read directions, take your time, and make sure you have all the supplies. Measure, measure, measure, don’t guess. Nothing slows you down more from finishing your pattern then missing elements!

judy

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to put a piece of painter’s tape with the adhesive facing out so you have a place to add the bits of thread as you cut them off. Keeps the sewing area clean.

Faith

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to have your ironing board and iron set up & ready to press

Linda A C

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use safety pins instead of straight pins when I need to pin something because I was always sticking myself or scratching myself with the straight pins.

Denise Darby

January 02, 2022

my sewing tip is to invest in a quarter inch foot. Well worth the time.

SewLynn

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is … press, press, press! Pressing makes the difference between looking ‘home made’ and professional for any garment but is especially important with the smaller scale of doll clothing. Mini-irons and craft irons are great to get into the smaller areas.

Julie

January 02, 2022

I have a couple favorite sewing tips to share. I mark grain line arrows and stretch direction arrows on my paper pattern pieces so I don’t make errors cutting out & waste fabric. As I have gotten older I realize I need more light on my sewing area. Try this if you have problems sewing darker threads on darker fabrics.

Diana

January 02, 2022

My sewing tip is to keep a piece of scrap fabric handy and always start a project by sewing on the scrap. Then slide your project under the pressure foot, keeping the threads attached to the scrap piece, then sew. Cut the threads once finished. This keeps the threads from bunching up under your first stitches on your project and makes a much neater seam. If you have a lot if different pieces for your project, you can also just stream them all together like that, always backstitching at each end, of course. Quilters do this all the time. It saves time and thread as well.

Heather

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to write “Fabric Only” with permanent marker on all your fabric scissors so that family members don’t use them to cut other materials.

Laura

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is about your patterns. I have over 200 so I bought sheet protectors to put the pattern cover sheet in front and the pattern pieces behind it. They are stored in notebook by doll size and pattern type on my bookshelf.

Moana

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use those wonderful plastic clips instead of pins. I hate getting stuck in the tender fingertips area When I’m happily sewing along. And my other best sewing tip is to use one of those lint rollers underneath your sewing machine to pick up all those little threads that somehow didn’t make it to the garbage can. That saves a lot of wear and tear on my vacuum roller.

Linda

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip fir doll clothes is to sew all trims before the side seams or gathering.

Pam R

January 02, 2022

My best tip, when sewing doll clothes is to iron, iron, iron. If you spend time sewing, do your best work towards a finished outfit. Ironing makes a big difference.

Zandra

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to take your time while sewing. I never get great results when I rush through a project.

Laura

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use hemostats to turn small things right side out.

Carol

January 02, 2022

My tips have already been given, but there is no substitute for reading directions ahead of time and pressing well along the way.

Laura

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is using a coffee filter under knits. It makes it so/sew much easier!

Linda Linzey

January 02, 2022

My sewing tip is to keep a seam reaper close. We all make mistakes sometimes and it helps to have it handy and close. The sooner you get it undone, the sooner you can get back to making something beautiful.

Rebecca

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip would be to use a walking foot with thick or knit fabric

Colleen

January 02, 2022

My best tip is when sewing a new pattern, to read ALL the instructions at least 2 or 3 times to make sure you understand them. As well as have all the supplies you will need handy. I have found this to be a great time saver as well as keeping the frustration level low

Amy W

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use pinking shears to clip curves. It saves time compared to individually cutting tiny triangles.

Theresa Pasquale

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to watch/read all the Pixie Faire sewing tips!!!🤗

Mary Jo

January 02, 2022

Keep your sewing area as neat & clean as possible while working on your project. This helps you stay organized, and you won’t have a huge mess to clean up afterwards.

Tommie

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to dedicate a time to sew. Don’t multitask. By being distracted, I find I make many mistakes and need to remove stitches and resew.
Another favorite tip I have is use sharp needles AND pins.

Rebecca

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to read and then reread the entire pattern directions so you are familiar with the steps. Then we you read it as you see it makes more sense.

Dianne G.

January 02, 2022

My sewing tip is to clean your machine often and especially around the feed dogs and bobbin area. Then put in the right needle for the fabric you are using. You will have far less frustrations with your sewing.

Brandy

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to have patience. Nothing every runs perfectly and little mistakes happen. Few happen if you are patient and don’t rush through what you are doing though.

Nessie

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use sewing clips to hold fabric together on some projects instead of pins.

Cynthia W.

January 02, 2022

My favorite tip is to start a project with a new needle to make sure it is sharp and has no burrs.

Sparkle

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is “the seam ripper is your friend”. This bit of advice has saved me much frustration and feelings of failure. Now I just look at the need to rip as a second chance to do it right.

Kay

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to keep you sewing machine clean and oiled. It just makes the machine run so much better, and it’s better for the machine too!

Janie

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting any project.

Sam

January 02, 2022

I guess my sewing tip would be, always use more pins then you think you need. While it might take longer in the beginning, there is a nice finish at the end

marlene

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is iron your fabric before you cut!

Tamara G

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to iron and press your project frequently! Start with freshly pressed fabric for the most accurate cutting of pattern pieces. And press your project at every step along the way. If it’s something too tiny to easily iron, steam and finger press. Taking this extra time and attention will result in a garment that is easier to handle and sew. And it will simply look better!

Bl

January 02, 2022

I have enjoyed all the tips. I am not sure I have another one to add but I do think I get the best results when I use good quality fabric and thread. The best thread is a treat to sew. It seems $ but there is a lot of thread on each spool. Thank you Pixiefaire for all the tutorials and patterns.

Lory

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is: Try to pick a quiet time without interruptions and if you are having problems with sewing something……relax and breath, you will figure it out. You can always google it. And have fun!

Marjory

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip, or one of them at least, is to use fusible thread along the turn line when sewing tiny hems on sheer fabrics.

EV

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to never stop experimenting. Keeping it playful, making things your own. Take up the courage to try the “impossible,” its where the magic happens, or the deepest learning happens for the next magic.

LindaHH

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to have your iron and ironing board handy when you sew.

Kari L. Bjorklund

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to cut out several projects at a time-it is so nice to keep creating after one project is done, and then another, until it’s times to cut some more projects out!

Janice

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is serge and iron seams as you go.

Shirley Camidge

January 02, 2022

You MUST use sharp scissors. A dedicated pair makes the top of the list.

Kimberly C

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to iron as you go

Melody

January 02, 2022

My best tip is to make sure you are using the right fabric for the pattern and not to get frustrated when it doesn’t work out.

Debra

January 02, 2022

My best tip is to always start with a new needle when sewing fine fabrics. It helps keep the snags away.

Jo

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use a coffee filter under hard to sew fabrics, or when beginning a seam. It keeps the fabric from getting caught in the feed dog, tears away easily, and leaves relatively clean seams with little paper to deal with. I also use the filters when sewing tight curves. The filters can be purchased at a dollar store.

Peggy

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is when sewing knits you should use a a small piece of stabilizer (I also have used coffee filters) underneath your knit at the beginning of your seam. Start on the stabilizer and continue onto the knit. When you are done just tear away the stabilizer. This keeps your knit from being pulled down into the bobbin area.

MARY

January 02, 2022

Use a chopstick to guide fabric/trims when sewing in tight spots. Saves you from sewing your finger!

Vicki J.

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to put away things as soon as you are done using them. Throw away the leftover scraps of fabric. Put away the buttons, threads, pattern pieces, etc. Don’t let things sit till later. It’s nice to be able to come to a nice clean, neat sewing area when you want to work on something.

Paula Machnik

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting so you know what to expect at every state of the project.

Paula Machnik

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to read the instructions fully before starting so you know what to expect at every state of the project.

Janice

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to keep learning by trying different types of sewing. The last courses that I’ve taken are bagmaking and bra makiing and fitting. I’ve learned so much particularly where to source supplies for these types of sewing.

Sharon Thomas

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to enjoy the journey. I find taking my time and enjoying what I am doing reduces the errors on my part. Some days, I am lucky to get one seam done but my finished project is generally one I can proud of.

Greta K

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to use the right needle for the fabric you’re sewing on and to change the needle after four hours of sewing, at least.

Lyn K

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to cut the pattern accurately, gather all the pieces, place in a ziplock bag along with the notions and trim. I do this for several patterns at a time, then take my time to sew each project. I place a note of tips for sewing in the bag. It’s like a prepackaged kit, ready to go.

Gracia Marks

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is also given in many above. Press, press and press again. The iron is as important as the sewing machine for a great finish.

Robyn

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to get thoroughly organized before you start. Read through any instructions, have your plan of attack, get all the supplies you think you need etc. Of course, I always end up needing something I didn’t anticipate. lol

Jocelyne

January 02, 2022

My favourite sewing tip: measure twice, cut once.

Lexi

January 02, 2022

When you get frustrated, stop and take deep breaths!

Nancy

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is change your sewing machine needle often. Sharp needles prevent slot of problems.

Ilana

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to make sure your needle is sharp!

Carla

January 02, 2022

Read through all the instructions before starting, keep your material/supplies well organized and always press.

Shushana

January 02, 2022

Why for my tip above is so you don’t finish a garment or project only to have it shrink later.

Nancy S.

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use pinking shears instead of clipping curves, especially on small doll necklines and sleeves! Saves lots of time, and finishes the seam at the same time.

Morgan

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to always have fun! Don’t let yourself get discouraged, take time to walk away and come back to it later. Just have fun!

time2smile

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to use lightweight dancer/skater skin-tone knit for lining and facing doll clothes. The knit doesn’t ravel, it generally doesn’t show up if a tiny bit of it doesn’t get turned all the way inside; it doesn’t add as much bulk to the seam areas. I used this recently to line a bodice where the neck and armhole lines are sewn and then the entire thing turned right side out through the shoulders. The lining was stretchy enough to allow the turn without much fuss.

Nanita Adams

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tips is wash and press fabric before cutting.

Shushana

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to preshrink your washable fabric and notions before starting your project.

anita

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is: if you are sewing multiples of a pattern or two or more similar patterns, batch sew the pieces from each outfit. Sewing goes faster and you improve your skills with each group of pieces.

CAROL

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to have a clean sewing space. It unclutters your mind and makes it heaven to sew!

Judy

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip has been from reading all the comments and getting new ideas.

Margaret Miller

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to press, press, press.

Kimberly

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is for beginners is just keep going! I’m still new and each one of my new projects us better than the last!

Kathleen Stull

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is practice makes perfect

Amy

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to not use a cheap machine! Spend a little more for quality, or even buy a used machine from a good brand so your money goes further. Cheap machines will have all kinds of issues with tension, etc, and will drive you crazy.

My mom got me hooked on Pfaff machines because of the be IDT/integrated walking foot that they have, and I can’t imagine using anything else.

Pat

January 02, 2022

My favorite sewing tip is to always have a new needle when starting a project.

James

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is press, press, press – use the iron, even on knits (sometimes, especially on knits!).

Mary Brock

January 02, 2022

My best sewing tip is to relax!! Don’t get so hung up on being perfect to then not enjoy of creating. Give yourself grace everyone makes a mistake now and then, so when it happens and it will, let it roll off getting back to creating.

Dorothy

January 02, 2022

“My best sewing tip is to Press, Press, and more Pressing. By pressing your seams it will save you time having to "Rip it, Rip it using the frog technique. I have learned many new sewing tips from Pixie faire patterns and look forward to Sewing with Cinnamon new website for new ones. Thank you.