Hi Sewing Friends!

I don't know about you, but I have a busy month coming up.  I just wanted to give you your monthly friendly reminder to schedule some time to maintain your wonderful sewing machines.

To help you along, I am giving you access to a machine maintenance tutorial I prepared for the January 2013 newsletter.  I hope you find it helpful.  Feel free to post your machine maintenance tips in the comments section below.

Sew Long!

M.

Hi Sewing Friends!

I just uploaded a new class to the classroom.  This is a licensed Sulky class from 2012.  I added some really cool extra techniques to this class.  The cupcake is a whimsical potholder (pictured right) and as an added bonus, I show you how to alter the original pattern and create a matching hot pad (pictured left).  Notice those darling ceramic accent buttons are just right for handling dishes straight from the oven.

In this class, I will show you 3 different techniques to transfer patterns.  Have you ever wanted to whip up a bunch of projects at one time, but were slowed down with cutting out the fabric?  Well, I have a technique for you that will really speed things up.  Are you inspired to sew clothes, but don't want to ruin a master pattern?  Well, I have a technique straight from couture sewing.  A smaller project like this is the perfect size to learn these new techniques.

One of the challenges about this project was turning the cupcake top right side out without it looking obvious.  As you can see, the cupcake top is well rounded.  Well, I am going to share a technique I learned from Sue Hausmann.  This technique will revolutionize how you sew future projects that need to be turned right side out.  And the end results are perfect!   

Now you can stitch up a unique guilt-free cupcake.  Use the flap of the potholder to stow small gifts and you have the cutest gift on the planet.  I don't have to tell you that cupcakes are all the rage now.  You see cupcake everywhere on everything.  Let you imagination soar once you learn the basics of making this cupcake.    

The following downloadable files are available in the Cupcakes & Techniques Classroom:

• PDF:  Detailed instructions
• PDF:  Pattern
• PDF:  Checklist
• Movie & PDF:  Cupcakes & Techniques - Part 1
• Movie & PDF:  Cupcakes & Techniques - Part 2

• Free Motion Sewing

• Sulky Cotton Blendables
• Sulky Cut-Away Plus
• Sulky Iron-On Transfer Pen 

Hi Sewing Friends!

Episode 3 of my podcast is now available on iTunes.  Just click on the picture above to get to iTunes.  If you are not sure what a podcast is or how to access it, check out this article I wrote.  During this month's podcast, I demystify the Sulky Tear Easy and Stiffy stabilizers.  Both of these are a temporary, tear away stabilizer.  I give you all the information you need to know about these stablizers and some tips on how, when, where, and why you would want to use it.  The podcast is not just for those who do machine embroidery either, so check it out!  There's also a special coupon code in the Show Notes.

Sew Long!

M.

Hi Sewing Friends!

So many people ask me, "Which thread is better Rayon or Polyester thread?"  I also hear a lot of derogatory comments about Rayon thread.  So, the purpose of this post is to educate you and explain the difference between Sulky Rayon Thread and the types of polyester threads Sulky offers.  

First I want to tell you that Sulky produces a very high quality Rayon thread that is available in both a 30 wt. and 40 wt.  Sulky also produces two types of Polyester thread known as Poly Deco, which is 40 wt. and PolyLite, which is a 60 wt. thread.  The polyester threads also are of excellent quality.  Unless otherwise indicated, the standard industry for machine embroidery designs and your sewing machine's built-in decorative stitches is intended to be used with 40 wt. Rayon thread.  If you deviate from 40 wt. Rayon be prepared to make some minor setting adjustments.  

Let me explain more about the Sulky Rayon threads.  Another term for rayon is viscose and/or cellulose, and these terms are more commonly used in European countries, where Sulky Rayon threads are made.  You may see 100% Viscose on some older spools of Sulky Rayon thread.  Don't be alarmed, it is still 100% Rayon thread.  

So let me get a little geeky on you and tell you how rayon thread is made.  Rayon is derived from a natural product...wood, which we all know to be a renewable source.  More specifically rayon is derived from the cellulose pulp of Spruce Pine and other select deciduous woods.  Sulky obtains it's raw fibers from the ENKA plant in Obergburn, Germany.  ENKA has forest plantations that are closely controlled and monitored.  The ENKA plant has been tested and certified to produce the highest quality long-chain cellulose fibers in the world.  These chains are crucial in the production of viscose products.  That is why Sulky proudly displays the ENKA symbol.  

It is true that rayon thread is not as strong as polyester thread, but it is an unneccessary strength.  Sulky Rayon thread is not intended for sewing seams.  You can be assured that Sulky Rayon thread is produced from the finest natural raw fibers in the world.  Sulky Rayon thread is lightweight and strong.  It has the same luster as silk thread.  Sulky Rayon thread is stronger than silk and cotton threads.  Sulky Rayon thread has less stretch than polyester and the stitches lay very nice.  Sulky 40 wt. Rayon thread is available in 388 solid, variegated and multi colors!  Perhaps one downside to Rayon thread is that you cannot use any bleaches or whiteners during laundry.  When I think about my wardrobe, I have a lot of bright colored and dark clothing.  I use bleach sparingly.  If I have to, on occasion, I'll bleach a load of white laundry.  So the fact that Rayon thread cannot be bleached is not a factor for me personally.  Perhaps another blog will be about how I treat stains when they happen : )

Polyester thread on the other hand is a man made fiber that comes from oil.  I could not find any information on how thread is created from oil.  When using polyester thread in lieu of a rayon thread in applications such as machine embroidery and decorative stitching, you may need to lower the top tension setting slightly and shorten the stitch length.  Sulky's polyester threads, Poly Deco and PolyLite, are made in Germany and are 100% polyester.  They have a shiny smooth finish.  In fact, I find that the Sulky line of polyester threads to be eye catching.  To me, the colors seem to be quite vibrant and very beautiful.  Poly Deco is available in 138 colors and PolyLite is available in 36 solid and 24 multiple colors.  Since polyester thread is "stronger," it has more stretch and will return to its original shape.  Polyester thread can be laundered with bleach and other whiteners.  That is why many people who make items for young children prefer polyester thread over rayon thread.  The disadvantage here is that it can cause puckering if the tension isn't adjusted and there needs to be more stablization.  A common occurrence with polyester thread is the thread loops on the top.

(Rayon on the left, Polyester on the right)

Which thread do I use?  When I purchased my first starter package of embroidery thread from the dealer, I was totally unprepared to make the decision of rayon or polyester.  For me, as luck had it, I selected the rayon thread, and I have been very happy with my haphazard choice.  I enjoy doing a variety of creative machine arts, and one of my favorite techniques is known as free standing embroidery or embroidery decoupage.  This is essentially a design that can be kind of treated like a patch.  The design is embroidered on Sulky Soft 'n Sheer stabilizer and a stencil cutting type tool is used to burn the excess stabilizer away from the edge of the embroidery.  This tool also helps seals the edges of the embroidery and prevents the design from falling apart.  Rayon thread is the best type of thread to use for this technique because it can stand up to the extremely hot temperatures of the burning tool.  

Hi Sewing Friends!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.  I've been tackling some spring cleaning, and judging by the weather, it seems like I am right on schedule.  I'm not finished yet.  Today I'm going to focus on my sewing room.  For some reason, I don't think I will be as detailed down there as I have been in the rest of the house.  That might be because I spent 4 days cleaning so far.  

I am just so excited about registering for my FIRST American Sewing Guild Annual Conference, that I just had to share it with someone, and why not my favorite Sewing Friends?

Last week the details about the conference were published on the ASG website.  The conference is being held in Arlington, Virginia. It officially begins Friday, August 1; however, there are some day before classes.  I knew that registration opened today, and I have been stalking the ASG website since midnight.    Then I received a special email message this morning with a link to register.  So, I was all prepared to register.  I just may have been one of the first ones to register.  If you are interested in attending the conference, you do not need to be a member of the ASG.  The conference is being held at a very nice hotel and I've had a room reserved since the end of February.  So, maybe now you can understand why I am sew excited.  I even have some roommates.  Now, I just have to wait a couple MORE months!!!  

This seems like a really great package, and it so unlike any other expo I have ever attended.  If you sign up for the full conference package, you get breakfast and lunch and 3 days of classes, for one flat fee.  The only extra fees are the kit fees, which you pay directly to the instructor.  Of course, there is plenty of shopping in the exhibit hall.  This is like an all-inclusive sewing vacation.  I just cannot wait.  

When people ask me if I sew clothing, my immediate response is NO.  Truth be known, I have dabbled with garments, but I can't seem to get past the test piece, known as a muslin or sloper, which is constructed of very plain fabric.  Garment construction really intrigues me because I know I can do it, I just have ADHD.  After I make the muslin, I'm already on to something else.  

So...I'm stepping outside of my box, and I registered for a day before class called Pants, Pants, Pants with Peggy Sagers of Silhouette Patterns.  She is like my newest idol.  Every other Monday night she holds live webcasts on her website and explains in layman terms construction details and fitting issues, and how they are all inter-related.  It actually makes sense!  Looks like I have to prepare a pair of pants out of muslin in time for the class.  Perhaps this time I will get somewhere this time.

Two other big classes I signed up for is the Jeans Fit Workshop and Jean Styling Workshop with Jennifer Stern-Haseman.  Both of these classes are from 8am to 5pm.  Do you think I'll know how to construct a pair of pants by the time I am finished?

I also signed up for the Revised and Updated One Seam Pants with Louise Cutting.  One seam, how hard can that be?  The trick will be in the type of fabric.  

Another interesting class I am taking will be about how to photograph your work. I am really looking forward to this class too,  because I would love to take my photography to the next level.  I am always intrigued by others photography and wonder why my photos don't look as nice as theirs.  

If you are interested in attending this conference, visit the ASG website, www.ASG.org.  You don't have to be a member, and it's never to late to join the ASG.  If you do join the ASG, please write down my name "Michelle Umlauf" on your registration form and let me know you joined.  The ASG is having a membership drive.  The member who recruits the most new members will win a 3 day visit by the ASG National Educator at their home.  I am holding a contest for those who I recruit too, and you could win up to $50 of Sulky products.  Read my post here about the contest.

If you attend the conference, please let me know, I'd like to meet you in person.

Have a great week!

Sew Long!

M.

Sulky KK 2000 temporary spray adhesive comes in a petite can that makes it especially easy to hold and control.  Although the can appears to be considerably smaller than its competitors, there is just as much spray adhesive in a can of Sulky KK 2000.  That's because it is highly concentrated.  The Sulky KK 2000 can is engineered to have a precise spray pattern and it is disbursed with a low-pressure propellant.  Another cool fact about Sulky KK 2000 is that it is heavier than air.  All these things added up means that you can use less spray adhesive and apply it directly where you want it to go.  So, this smaller can goes a long ways.  There's no more waste and no looming clouds of spray adhesive floating in the air, covering everything it comes in contact with, or causing irritation to people with sensitivites.  Sulky KK 2000 is non-toxic, colorless, odorless and non-flammable!!!  Within 24-36 hours Sulky KK 2000 is completely absorbed within the fabric fibers, and totally disappears within 2-5 days.  Best of all, it does not leave behind a residue and the fabric will not remain permanently stiff.  If you need to quickly remove the stickiness, Sulky KK 2000 dissipates with the touch of a hot iron.  The one thing you do not want to do is attempt to wash Sulky KK 2000 away because it will form a gooey residue.  If that happens to you, try using rubbing alcohol to remove it, but remember to test in an inconspicuous area or on scrap fabric.

You will quickly discover how convenient Sulky KK 2000 will become in your everyday sewing needs, and it does not gum up the sewing machine needle.  It's always good practice to spray away from your sewing machine.  I either step outside or into another room.  Hold the can about 5-8" from the area being sprayed.  

For embroidery, it allows you to hoop the unhoopable including smaller areas such as collars, cuffs, pockets, etc.  You can also hoop stabilizer, spray the stabilizer with Sulky KK 2000 and place the item you wish to embroider on top of the stabilizer.  When "hooping" a knit fabric like this, it is allowed to lay in its natural state without the risk of stretching.  The only stabilizer you do not want to use KK 2000 on is Ultra Solvy, the heaviest of the wash away stabilizer clear films.  Instead, you can spray Ultra Solvy with some water and it will become sticky.  Sulky KK 2000 is fantastic to use for applique project because you can reposition your applique pieces without having to spray with adhesive over and over.  Sulky KK 2000 can often come in handy as a "thumb" when you don't have an extra or as a pin at times when they aren't handy.  For you crafters and creative machine arts sewists, KK 2000 can tame anything such as unruly ribbon, or secure something in place temporarily such as templates and stencils.  You can even use it on other surfaces, just be sure to test it first.  Sulky KK 2000 is also handy for garment construction.  You can test different hem lengths before sewing and consider construction details such as dart placement, the positioning of pockets or shoulder pads.  Use Sulky KK 2000 to position various embellishments and trim.  It is even convenient to secure the area around a place that needs mending.   

I hope you learned more about Sulky KK 2000 and discovered new practical uses for it in your everyday sewing and crafting projects. During the month of April, purchase Sulky KK 2000 from my online shop and receive 10% off. 

Just your friendly monthly reminder here to give your sewing machines, embroidery machines, and sergers a good cleaning and a drop of oil.  Spring is in the air and I plan to do some spring shuffling  in my sewing room.  While I'm shuffling things around, I'll at least vacuum, which is the perfect opportunity to use the mini vacuum attachments.  You can usually find these vacuum kits at sewing expos, perhaps your sewing machine dealer or even a sew-vac shop near you.  They are a great accessory that helps speeds up the cleaning process.  

Need some machine maintenance tips?  Take a look at archived blogs post around the beginning of the month.

Sew Long!

M.

Hotsy Totsy

Click on the picture to see the detailed class description.

Hi Sewing Friends!

Let me introduce you to Hotsy Totsy, the newest licensed Sulky class to enter the classroom.  When I think of Hotsy Totsy, I think of the cartoon character Maxine.  This is such a fun project to make and it is filled with a lot of purse-nality.  It is designed to be a small shoulder bag, but it would make an awesome gift bag for a special friend or family member.  You can easily adapt Hotsy Totsy to be an applique for a larger tote bag or the back of a shirt or jacket.  Or how about a pillow.  I'll just stop there before I get myself into trouble.  

You will have so much fun learning how to make Hotsy Totsy.  This class is truly a creative machine arts class.  Once you learn the basic skills you will say to yourself, "That wasn't so hard," and be inspired to create many more.  For you aspiring art quilters, this class is for you too.  You will learn how to build upon your traditional quilting skills and add pizzaz to your new quilting projects.  

I love creative machine art project, because you cannot make any mistakes.  If you think you created a mistake, look at it as a decorative opportunity.  Decorative opportunities means that your "mistakes" can be covered up with more sewing, embellishments, paint, embroidery, and other techniques.  

To see a full class description and to sign up for this class, click here or click on the picture above.

Sew Long!

M.

Hi Sewing Friends!

I just wanted to let you know that Episode 2 of the Sew Simplified Podcast is available on iTunes.  This episode is all about demystifying the Sulky Cut Away stabilizer.  There was so much information to share, that I created Episode 2a, which focuses on how to successfully embroider on a sweatshirt.  In Episode 2a, I share with you a lot of tips, tricks & techniques for successful placement, hooping, Rayon vs. PolyDeco thread, and more.

To listen to the podcast, click on the podcast picture below.

Click here to listen to the podcast

Have a wonderful weekend!

M.

Hi Sewing Friends!

Finally, the long awaited Sew Fabulous Versa Pad class is now available in my online classroom.  This is the class I taught the night of the Margaret Moorehead Virtual Sewing Guild.  I received a lot of positive feedback from the audience about the class and the inspiration it provided them.  So, I think you are going to like it too.  Just click on the picture below and you will be redirected to the full class description.

I think this project is really cool!  It was originally named the Sew Fabulous Mouse Pad.  This is a prime example of one of those classes that might not appeal to you.  If you are like me, you don't use a mouse pad, so why in the world would you want to take this class.  The secret, it's all about the techniques.  To entice more people to sign up for the class, I changed the name to the Sew Fabulous Versa Pad, because there are sooo many different things you can do with it.  In fact, I was just recently inspired to make something else using the concept I learned from the Versa Pad class.  

Back to the secret, it's all about the techniques.  That's one of the benefits of the licensed Sulky classes.  They are quick and easy projects, designed to show you how to do something new and guide you through some new techniques without spending a lot of time making a larger project. Once you learn the technique it's time for you to soar to a whole new level.  I love creative machine art!

Sew Long!

M.