Getting the Most out of your Sewing Machine.
Explore the built-in stitch settings on your machine for some added creativity.
I don’t know about you, but I find that when it comes to purchasing a new appliance it can be very easy to be drawn in by the amazing array of settings available. But when it comes down to actually using your shiny new toy, you realise that in reality, two settings would be fine and the others are totally redundant!
This is not always the case, however, with sewing machines. True, there are models out there which have so many buttons, switches and settings that it can feel totally overwhelming. I mean, is it REALLY necessary to have seven different zigzag settings? Probably not, but don’t ignore the potential that your machine offers you by using the built-in stitches in creative ways.
Create a stitch reference guide using all the built-in stitches on your machine. Stitch each one in sequence to give you a handy visual record of what it looks like on fabric. You can take this a stage further with any patterns you particularly like by changing the size and spacing settings to see what happens. Record the settings you used in a notebook so that you can easily repeat the effect later on in a project.
Appliqué is a technique which can really be enhanced by the use of the decorative stitches on your machine. It can create additional visual interest as well as texture to the fabric surface.
I like to use a silky machine embroidery thread and create rows of decorative stitches on felt. These are then cut between the rows to make ‘ribbons’. Stitching them on top of other fabrics adds texture, but they can also be knotted, woven or stitched together to create really interesting effects!
Choosing just one decorative stitch can also give fantastic results. Simply vary the settings as you lay down rows or areas of stitching. Overstitching or creating grids will result in a really interesting surface which can be used as the background for further embellishment. I like to use a single colour but in different tones to create added depth.
One of my favourite uses of the sewing machine is for free machine embroidery. Many machines allow the feed dogs to be lowered thus enabling movement of the fabric to be unrestricted. (If your machine does not have this function, refer to your operating handbook as it is likely that there will be a plate which can be fitted over the feed dogs instead to allow free machining.) With your fabric stretched into an embroidery hoop and your free machining sewing foot attached, you can have hours of fun ‘drawing’ with stitches!
Whatever sewing direction your machine takes you in, we hope you have many happy hours of sewing!
Suzanne, Charlotte and Rebecca
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