Oh, but I haven't just been sacrificing trees to the gods of paperwork this week! No, I've also been basking in the glory of my sewing sensei, Russell, of Sewing Arts Center fame. Yep, through the end of March I am spending one to two nights per week with said sensei in order to hone my sewing skills via a variety of classes.
January is all about the skirt and last Tuesday was my first class. Needless to say it was illuminating. My classmates and I spent the evening modifying our patterns (if needed), cutting out our pattern pieces and fabric pattern piece doppelgangers as well as embarking on a bit of sample seam sewing. Russell demonstrated a couple of seam techniques that we will be using on our projects: (i) the French seam and (ii) the flat fell seam. His contention is that fine finished seams are easy and a must for novices to learn. And after completing sample versions of both seams, I agree with him. I am a big fan of the private side of my home sewn garments looking just as fine as the public side.
A less than perfect example of a French seam. As is my way, I began this particular seam on the wrong side of the fabric instead of the right side as I was told to do. What can I say? I have a long and very familiar relationship with my seam ripper.
An almost perfect flat fell seam. Fortunately I didn't screw up two types of seams in one evening!
My next class will be all about seaming and pressing my garment. I haven't decided which seaming technique I will use to assemble my skirt. However, I have a week to mull it over while in New York. Exciting stuff!
February, I am tackling quilting! Wooo hooo!
10 comments:
I am glad I am not alone in finishing things on the wrong side of the fabric. I have trouble visualizing it - you'd think I would just think of the wrong side as right - I'd be right - but alas my brain is to sneaky for that one to work!
My grandmother always said the inside should look as good as the outside. I would recommend the french seam for a skirt. 'Tis a little dressier (or skirtier if you prefer)
Is there anything you can't do? I would love to take sewing classes, that's on the list of things to do someday.
My seam ripper is my most trusty, most loyal and most used sewing tool.
Now I want to take a sewing class too!
New York, a sensei! Wow, sounds big time!! I love that you are showing us the stitches, thank you for sharing with us. Happy new year friend!
I just had to feature on my blog. Check it out when you have time. You are one crocheting Mama!
I just plain can't sew. A straight seam is a major achievement for me! This is way, way beyond my abilities.
Lovely, inspiring seams. Just letting you know I nominated your blog for the Lemonade Stand Award today! Just cuz it's one of my faves! See my blog for details!
Wonderful seaming! I have always struggled with this aspect of sewing. Any tips on maintaining straight lines? I don't know why, but that is where I always struggle. Several people have told me, "Practice!", but I HAVE practiced and I'm getting no better. Are there any guides available you can recommend?
Wow, I just had a flashback to my Home-Ec class! I hated those classes, but bought a sewing maching with my first real paycheque from my first real job...go figure. I love your material!
Post a Comment