Talks
"Sewing Machine Techniques for Machine Knitters"
See how easy it is to use both machines together, with lots of practical information.
I am equally knowledgeable about knitting and sewing machines and in this talk I show how, by using both machines, they can complement each other and achieve very pleasing results. As almost everyone has access to a basic zigzag sewing machine, everything I demonstrate can be done using such a machine and machines with automatic stitches and overlockers are excluded. I aim to make the sewing machine more user-friendly and demonstrate, for example, how to sew up knitted garments using yarn through a large-eye needle or a twin needle. Depending on the size of the group and time available I also cover some or all of the following techniques: - (a) How to combine knitting with fabrics in garments such as T-shirts, casual cardigans and waistcoats (b) How to do alterations e.g. reshaping jumpers and shortening skirts, including shadow pleated skirts. (c) How to make buttonholes in knitting and sew on buttons. I will bring some sewing machine presser feet for sale - if you think you might like to purchase then it is helpful to bring along a presser foot from your own machine to check the fitting. Patterns, needles and haberdashery items will be available for purchase.
Combine your knitting and sewing skills by making a T-Shirt.
A 2.5mm twin needle is used to make the seams, and a 4mm twin needle is used to topstitch the neckband.
Cut and sew edge on a lacy top edged with bias binding cut from fabric and made into binding by using a bias binding maker gadget.
Make buttonholes with your sewing machine on machine knitted bands - I will show you how easy it can be.
The ‘Sewing Machine Techniques’ talk deals with the more practical uses of the sewing machine for the machine knitter, whereas the 'Sewing Sampler' talk deals more with decorative techniques, which are taken from my book “Sewing Sampler”. They include making trims, pintucks and frills with the sewing machine. Also included are techniques such as embroidered motifs, couching, easy appliqué and making fringe. If you bring them along, I can also de-mystify some of the extra feet in your sewing machine accessory box.
Patterns, needles and haberdashery items will be available for purchase.
To all my talks, I bring a collection of samples and garments to illustrate the points I am making and I have information sheets and patterns for sale. I also bring a selection of stock which relate to the talk and often bring extras of popular items which I sell at shows.
The talks are informative and entertaining and learning something new is guaranteed. I have been asked to return to clubs on many occasions because I have so much to offer and time always runs out.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for further details - I would be very happy to tailor-make the talk/demonstration for your club.
I look forward to hearing from you.