Download Idiot's Guides: Sewing PDF

Table of Contents

                            Contents iv
Part 1: Getting Started 3
	1 Before You Begin 5
		Pins and Needles 6
		Measuring Tools 7
		Cutting Tools 8
		Pressing Tools 9
		Fabric Defined 10
		Fabric Types 12
		Preparing Your Fabric 14
	2 Know Your Machine 17
		Anatomy of a Sewing Machine 18
		Threading a Sewing Machine 20
		Machine Needles 23
		Loading a Bobbin 24
		Sewing Machine Feet 28
		Adjusting the Tension and Stitches 30
Part 2: Start Sewing 33
	3 Stitching Basics 35
		Straight Stitch 36
		Backstitch 37
		Zigzag Stitch 38
		Tension 39
		Threading a Needle 40
		Securing the Thread 41
		Types of Stitches 42
		Practice Project: Bookmark 44
	4 Seams and Hems 47
		Sewing and Pressing a Straight Seam 48
		Seam Finishes 50
		Sewing a Hem 52
		Practice Project: Infinity Scarf 54
	5 Corners and Curves 57
		Curved Seams 58
		Sewing Corners 62
		Practice Project: Peter Pan Collar Embellishment 66
	6 Trims and Finishes 69
		Types of Trim 70
		Sewn In Seam 72
		Edge Trims 73
		Piping 74
		Using Bias Tape 76
		Making Your Own Bias Tape 80
		Practice Project: Lace-Embellished Tank 84
Part 3: More Techniques 87
	7 Ruffles and Gathers 89
		Gathering a Ruffle 90
		Shirring with Elastic Thread 92
		Making Drawstring Ties 94
		Sewing with Elastic 96
		Practice Project: Fabric Headband 100
	8 Fasteners 103
		Using a Zipper Foot 104
		Inserting a Zipper 106
		Using a Buttonhole Foot 110
		Opening a Buttonhole 114
		Sewing a Button 116
		Sewing with Hooks and Eyes 118
		Snaps and Velcro 119
		Practice Project: Zipper Clutch 120
	9 Pleats, Tucks, and Darts 125
		Knife Pleats 126
		Box Pleats 128
		Tucks 130
		Darts 132
		Practice Project: Pleated Pillowcase 134
	10 Decorative Techniques 139
		Applying Appliqué 140
		Practice Project: Monogrammed Key Fob 144
		Types of Quilting 146
		Practice Project: Pot Holder 152
	11 Basic Clothing Techniques 157
		Using Interfacing 158
		Pockets 160
		Attaching a Collar 163
		Setting a Sleeve 166
		Making a Waistband 168
		Curved Hems 172
		French Seams 174
		Practice Project: Pocket Tee 176
	12 Patterns 179
		Reading the Envelope 180
		Understanding the Markings 182
		Laying Out and Cutting the Pieces 184
Part 4: A Gallery of Projects 187
	Basic Project 1: Peppermint Coasters 188
	Basic Project 2: Elastic-Waist Skirt 194
	Basic Project 3: Mannequin Scissor Holder 198
	Basic Project 4: Felt Coffee Cozy 204
	Easy Project 1: Sewing Machine Cover 208
	Easy Project 2: Pincushion 212
	Easy Project 3: Tissue Pack Cover 216
	Easy Project 4: Reusable Snack Bag 220
	Intermediate Project 1: Drawstring Flat Pack 224
	Intermediate Project 2: Tablet Case 232
	Intermediate Project 3: Picnic Blanket 238
	Intermediate Project 4: Makeup Brush Holder 244
	Intermediate Project 5: Appliqué Pillow 250
Glossary 258
Index 262