Teach Yourself to Sew by Threads Magazine - Issue Winter 2013

Contents

• Get in the Race
• On Your Mark. Tools for transforming essential information from pattern to fabric
• Get Set. Setting up your sewing space takes more ingenuity than room
• Go! How to drive Your Machine. Manage curves, take corners and keep your sewing smooth
• Make the Cut. Scissors or rotary cutters €•you €™ll love them both
• Photo Finish. Pressing makes all the difference
• Get in Form. When it comes to fit, a custom dress form is your best friend
• Build Your Skills
• Seams. How to make a lasting fabric connection
• Sew in Shape. Use darts to sculpt garments to your curves
• Edges are Everywhere. Here are a few techniques for finishing them
• What is Interfacing? It €™s the key to keeping the shape you want
• Fabric Fundamentals. Identify three basic textile types
• Go with the Grain. Knowing the difference between straight grain, cross-grain, and bias is essential to good sewing
• Discover Patterns
• Read a Pattern Right. Everything you need to know is on €•or inside €•the pattern envelope
• Navigate the Pattern Universe. There are all kinds of ways to get patterns
• Get to Know Ease. It affects how your patterns fit
• Pattern-Free Sewing Projects. Key measurements and gathering know-how turn 2 garments into 12
• Sew Like a Pro
• Measure Your Clothes. Step into your closet for a pain-free fitting lesson
• Make a Muslin. Test your pattern in a throwaway fabric
• Buttons Matter. It €™s important to put the right size button in the right place
• Got Curves? A technique for sewing smooth curves that go in opposite directions
• Fit & Fine-tune
• How to Take Perfect Measurements. Mark first, then measure
• 12 Terrific Finishing Tips. The Association of Sewing and Design Professionals shares strategies for finishing garment edges
• When Good Darts Go Bad. Rotate the dart to reposition fabric fullness
• For a Great Fit, Start at the Shoulders. Your shoulder slope affects the fit of every outfit, so alter patterns to match your body
• Seam Finishes. Match the technique to the fabric for attractive and durable seam allowances
• Fashion Projects
• Trim a Purchased Top. A quick fix for an unloved garment
• Pillow Talk. Make them any size from any fabric
• Dress Your Duvet. Good measurements and great seams get you covered

You €™ll also find the following departments:

• Editor €™s Note
• Tips
• Web
• Hot Topics
• Quiz
• Quick Reference
• Troubleshooting
• Resources
• Video excerpts from all four seasons