THE BASICS
Stitches, quick fabrics guide and handy tools. Getting things ready and starting out. Here we go !
STITCHES, starting with stitching .......
Running Stitch :
The first stitch we all learn. Used for basting or tacking too.
Longer basting stitches are used to keep two fabrics together temporarily. While the shorter, running stitch can be used to create neat gathers by pulling gently on the thread.
The needle stabs in and out of the fabric in one movement. Keep stitches as even as possible : )
Back Stitch :
This is the best stitch for seams when you hand sew. It is very similar to the basic running stitch, but here you literally "back " stitch into the space left behind.
Blanket Stitch :
Probably does get its name from the edging stitch on blankets (remember those, before we had duvets : ))
Very similar to the oversew stitch above, but you catch the thread in the previous stitch to create a further row of stitches running at right angles.
Oversew or Overcast stitch :
Used to join the edges of two fabrics together. Can be used to close openings (but does not give such a neat finish as Ladder stitch : ) Best used to attach ears and other apendages you might need to attach to your softie.
Ladder Stitch:
This stitch is perfect for closing openings on softies. It can be almost invisible (especially when used on fur or other piled fabrics : )
Very simply, work along the oepening taking small alternate stitches on either side. Work in groups of 4 or 5 stitches, but do not pull the thread taut as you sew.
When you have a small group, then pull the thread in the direction you are sewing (this part is important). The raw edges should then turn to the inside with a neat closure.
If the group of stitches is not doing as they should, run your needle along the edge, between stitches to encourage the edge to turn inside,
Ladder Stitch before and after on fur or fabric
TIPS USING YOUR PATTERN
You've found the pattern you want, you've purchased the fabric but making those first cuts can be more than daunting!
Preparation is the key :
There is nothing worse than cutting out your pattern to find that you cannot get that last leg piece out! Always check that you have all the pieces you need before making any cut into the fabric or fur.
Try duplicating the paper pieces this helps to make sure you get left/right facing pieces and the best use of your treasured fur or fabric : )
Things to remember:
-
Use a contrasting coloured pencil to draw around the pieces.
-
Always work on the back of your fabric
-
Check fur or pile direction.
-
Add any markings like joints/eye positions
-
Check that you have right/left facing pieces where needed.
-
Cut out on or just inside your drawn lines.
WORKING WITH FUR
-
Bonkers here is made in a very dense, thick fur (hence his name : ) Lovely to hug but more of a challenge to work with !
With this type of fur, it really helps to trim the fur sitting in the seam allowance (remembering to keep inside the allowance or you will have a bald bear ! ) Makes stitching much easier - and less fur trapped in the seams.
-
To release fur trapped in the seam you have sewn, you can use a special teasel brush. For smaller or less dense fur, simply run the blunt end of a sewing needle, or wooden cocktail seam along the seam.
-
To avoid your bear looking as though he has had a bad hair day, we need cut as little of the fur pile as possible when cutting out the pattern pieces. It helps to use just the tips of your scissors and take small snips. For hefty fur, try running a small craft blade along the backing side of the fur
-
Do be very careful though and aware that this will not work so easily on trickier shapes :
-
And most importantly, have your vacuum handy - it gets everywhere !
The teasel brush - perfect to tame thicker fur
