In the 1990's designer labels were de-rigueur. By definition, this means they were seen as necessary if you wanted to be fashionable and popular. However, the grunge look took hold as well. It seems as if fashion fanatics were on one extreme side or the other. This show will remind you of items seen in this past decade yet I think it will inspire you to re-create with fresh new methods.
I'll begin with the end of the show this time. It's a short segment featuring decorative stitching that mimics hand embroidery. You'll see a variety of samples I stitched with thick threads that would never go through the eye of a needle. So how is this done? The technique is known as bobbin work. It's accomplished by stitching from the wrong side of the fabric with special thick threads feeding from the bobbin, and normal weight threads in the needle.
I LOVE bobbin work!!! It is fun and easy on the sewing side of the machine, and really unique when stitched in the hoop with machine embroidery designs. The majority of the samples seen on this show are stitched with built in decorative stitches on the sewing side. I used baby yarn, silk ribbon, and threads designed for sergers. Click on the image of the children's fleece cap for complete instructions for the cap seen on the show.
Bobbin work stitchery is a great way to add texture and unique effects on many different items. There are kits available but you can also purchase a secondary bobbin case and adjust it for the thicker threads. Check with your local sewing machine dealer to see what's available for your machine model.
You can click on any one of the titles below to explore more bobbin work projects and ideas. You are sure to learn additional tips about this interesting, "upside down" embellishment technique known as bobbin work.
In the very first segment you'll see Rebecca Kemp Brendt create quilted fabric on the Brother Dream Fabric Frame. Then she shows you how to turn it into a beautiful version of a quilted "Vera Bradley" style bag. These carryalls were certainly common in the 90's. They were sewn and toted around by savvy stitchers back then and they are just as popular today.
Ideal for traveling and everyday use, the versatility of these zippered and pocketed bags make them a desirable accessory item for all ages. If you'd like to make something similar, patterns from the byannie.com site are some of the closest I've seen to imitating this style.
Ideal for traveling and everyday use, the versatility of these zippered and pocketed bags make them a desirable accessory item for all ages. If you'd like to make something similar, patterns from the byannie.com site are some of the closest I've seen to imitating this style.
You only need an ordinary machine and a common straight stitch to quilt your own contemporary fabric and make a tote like Rebecca shows in this segment. However, for those who want to invest in a dedicated set up for free motion stitching, just think of this system as a great big hoop. It's ready to hold fabric layers taught and smooth while you stitch. You can quilt projects that are large or small, draw original designs with free motion thread painting, punch fibers with needle felting, and more! It's all possible with this compact, yet expandable system. Click on the photo below to learn more fun facts about this multipurpose frame. It's built by Grace Frame Company, and sold by Brother Sewing machine dealers.
In part two Londa Rohlfing demonstrates many ways to shirr fabric with special elastic thread in the bobbin of the machine.
This is a technique that requires good thread for good results. My preferred brand is the Gutermann elastic thread on a spool. You should find it wherever standard Gutermann sewing thread is sold. I also like to use the carded elastic thread designed for jewelry making.
As usual, you'll want to test for best results. CLICK HERE to download instructions for a scarf project made with elastic thread.
As usual, you'll want to test for best results. CLICK HERE to download instructions for a scarf project made with elastic thread.
Ready to learn some new and interesting techniques? You can CLICK HERE to go watch episode 912 of it's Sew Easy TV. This episode is currently showing online from March 11th to March 18th at noon. Enjoy!
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