winding a bobbin – it should be
loose between the thread reel and
the tension mechanism and taut
from the tension mechanism to the
bobbin. If you end up with a ‘squishy’
bobbin, failure to do this is the
most likely cause. Bobbins can be
rewound to a new bobbin.- Always make sure the thread type
being used in the needle is exactly
the same as the thread wound on to
the bobbin. Different colours can be
used but, for perfect stitching, the
thread brand and weight needs to be
the same – unless of course you are
doing decorative techniques. - Press seams fl at as sewn to blend
the thread into the fabric.
Hand-stitching
Twisting thread is one of the most
common problems encountered when
hand-stitching.
To eliminate twisting:
- Cut thread on an angle.
- When using thread from a reel,
thread the end through the eye
of the needle and cut off the
required length. - When using thread from a bobbin,
cut the required length and
thread the cut end through the
eye of the needle. - Consider threading the needle
and then ironing the thread
before stitching. - Use a single thread for all hand-
stitching except when attaching
fastenings (e.g. hooks and eyes,
press studs, etc.). - Keep thread length to
approximately 50cm (193/4in). - If there is a lot of hand-stitching,
prepare several threaded needles
before starting. - To increase thread strength for
permanent stitches only, wax the
thread – thread the needle and
run the thread through beeswax;
place between two sheets of paper
towel and iron while pulling the thread
through – this melts the wax and
embeds it into the thread.
Photo 1Photo 2Photo 3Tips and Techniques