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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Sewing Tables - Giving You the Sewing Work Space You Deserve By Jennifer Akre


One of your most favorite activities to do is to sit down and sew. You love it so much that you have pretty much taken over the kitchen table to do it and every time there is a meal, you have to clean everything off of it only to put it all back on when you continue doing your project. There is a solution to your problem and that solution is sewing tables. One would give you a great place to do your work so you can give your kitchen table a much needed break.

The reasoning behind why sewing tables offer you such a great work space to do your sewing projects is because that is what they are specifically designed to do and nothing else. One will typically feature a spacious table top perfect for laying out patterns to mark them on fabric and then cut them as well. Some options will feature drop down leaf extensions that you can use if you need additional room to work with. If you generally use a sewing machine, you can get options that are perfect for installing your sewing machine right on. And, there are even some that even have hidden storage areas for sewing machines. Like, when you need it you can just raise your it up from underneath the table top thanks to an elevator like mechanism, then when you are done using it, you can lower it back down under the table. This is extremely convenient when you are juggling between marking and cutting a fabric and sewing it.

Along with giving you an awesome place to do your sewing work, sewing tables also provide you with a wealth of space to store all your supplies as well. Again, this is because of their design. Most will feature drawers, cabinets, and shelving where you can stow away a wide variety of things from fabric, patterns, thread, needles, scissors, books and anything else you might need while working.

Are you thinking that you might not have the space for one? Well, the thing is, sewing tables generally come with wheels, which makes them extremely mobile and able to be moved wherever you have room that day. So, if you have enough space in your living room, just roll it in there, or if the living room is being used by your kids that day, you could simply roll it in your office to work there. The wheels offer you a lot of flexibility and one furnishing that would be a smart buy and speaking of buying, a great way to find the perfect one for you is by going online for some online shopping. It really is the way to go since you can just shop from the comfort of your own home in front of your computer. When you do find something that you like and purchase it, it will then be shipped right to you so no having to worry about hauling anything anywhere.

In the end, if you want a nice place to sew, turn to sewing tables. One would definitely be a great purchase.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops including that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it isaccent tables for your living room or tables for you newly remodeled home, there are many tips you can use to make any spot both functional and beautiful. Click today and indulge your senses.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

How To Buy Your First Sewing Machine By Mary Wilkins

There are many brands of machines out there and everyone boasts different features. Some machines appeal to quilters, others want you to embroider everything including the toilet seat and the shower curtain. Searching for the right machine is going to take some time.

Shopping for a new machine can make your head spin. The girls on my boards discuss which machine is best every time someone needs a new one. We all know the name brands but I am not going to suggest one, that decision is yours. It's a personal one and an important one. I will, however give you a few basic questions you should ask yourself.

1. What type of sewing do you plan to do?

- clothing

- crafts

- repairs and alterations

- home decorating

2. Where will you sew?

- sewing room

- kitchen table

- integrated into other family living area

3. How will your machine be stored?

- in its own cabinet

- in a closet hiding behind the coats

- leave it out to sew every spare moment

4. Consider your budget and buying habits? How long will you keep this machine?

- 6 months

- a few years

- forever and a day

When you answer these questions, you are on your way to making the right decision. Obviously if you are going to sew from the kitchen table, you don't want a machine with lots of accessories or add-ons that will take up too much room. If you are doing repairs and alterations, you don't want a machine that duplicates the quilting stitch. If you have small children around, your machine needs to be tucked away safely. Just a few things to think about.

Research is the name of the game here. Check out the latest consumer reports. Visit the forum discussions on sew-whats-new.com and see what the girls are using. They will gladly tell you what works and what doesn't. Another source is the well known sewing magazines. Sew News and Threads do comparison studies all the time.

If you are lucky enough to have local dealers, pay them all a visit. Test drive all their machines and ask lots and lots of questions. Take fabric with you that you use and test out things like stitch length, reverse and some of the different presser feet. Find out about lessons. Lots of dealers will give you a few free lessons to get you acquainted with your machine. Above all, take your time. I cannot stress this enough. Don't let anyone rush you thru the process. Leave the kids at home so you have no distractions. While you are in the shop asking questions, you can see how the staff relate to customers and if they have the answers to all your questions. If they seem impatient or brusque, imagine how they might be after the sale. If they are not helpful now at the prospect of a sale, they probably won't be later if you need help.

On the other hand, a strong sales pitch can also steer you in the wrong direction. Paying for a top of the line model doesn't mean you are getting the machine you will be happiest with. You must resist the urge for that impulse buy. Go home and talk to someone who sews. Find out their experiences and listen to what they have to say. Again, take your time with this decision.

If you have visited all the dealers, and test driven their machines visit them all again. Visit again when you are rested and can make a clear decision. Go back and take a second look at those machines. You are looking at them with new eyes now. Maybe there are a few things you never noticed the first time that stand out now. What about that foot pedal, is it comfortable? Do you want the even feed feature? Does the machine run smoothly and quietly? Are there more programmes than you will ever use? If so, make a mental note and you can scale down your possible choices. This second visit will tell you more than you expect.

Ask about the warranty that comes with each machine. Be sure you know who is responsible for standing behind it, your dealer or the manufacturer. Are repairs made locally or will you have to pack everything up and send it away.

Be very sure you understand what is included with the sewing machine. Which feet, how many bobbins and what about a manual. The manual is very important. You will refer to the manual time after time so it should be a good reference guide to all the accessories and stitch designs along with any other functions. The manual should be full of pictures and diagrams for the basic sewing as well as clear directions. If your manual isn't helpful, do you want to go searching out the answers every time you have a problem. I wish I had a penny for every time someone has emailed me with a problem that their manual doesn't answer.

Be sure you get your sales agreement in writing and keep your copy in a safe place. Nothing less will do.

The bottom line is you must do some work before you ever sew your first stitch. If you make the effort and educate yourself, the rewards of a great sewing machine are yours.

Mary Wilkins has three grown children and six perfect grandchildren. Completely self taught, she has been sewing, and crafting for over 30 years. Her website http://www.sew-whats-new.com has been recognized in many sewing magazines and newsletters alike.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Friday, April 10, 2009

A Brief History of Sewing Machines By Alison Cole

Initially, sewing machines were manufactured for garment factory production lines, allowing for clothing to become uniformly mass-produced. It was French tailor Barthelemy Thimonnier who invented the first functioning sewing machine in 1830 for use in his garment factory.

This original machine used only one thread and a hooked needle for a chain stitch. His factory was burnt down and he was nearly killed by an angry mob of French tailors who were afraid his machines would leave them unemployed. A few years later in America, Walter Hunt shared the same fears, and abandoned the work to patent his own version of a straight-seam sewing machine. The fears were unfounded, as industrial sewing machines created multiple job opportunities worldwide.

Modern garment factories incorporate the same mass production techniques as other industries, with each workstation completing one part of the overall job. Industrial sewing machines are generally designed to perform one specific sewing function such as embroidery. Machines with different functions are operated to complete clothing items in a production line. Marketing to individuals didn't begin until 1889, allowing for women to have the means to create clothing for their family without the labor-intensive hand stitching. The domestic sewing machine used in the home is manufactured to perform many tasks from sewing straight or zigzag stitches and the creation of buttonholes, as well as stitching buttons on to the piece of clothing.

Industrial sewing machines, like their domestic counterparts for the home, were created to simplify and speed up the otherwise labor-intensive hand stitching. The domestic sewing machine is manufactured to perform many tasks from sewing straight or zigzag stitches and the creation of buttonholes, as well as stitching buttons on to the piece of clothing. Sewing machines were adapted for use in industrial settings, allowing for clothing to become uniformly mass-produced. The industrial sewing machines are generally designed to perform a specific sewing function such as embroidery or applying buttonholes. Companies from all over the world manufacture industrial sewing machines with very basic features as well as higher-end computer operated models.

A variety of machines with different functions are operated to complete clothing items in a production line. A few examples would be a Bag Closer sewing machine which is used for sewing a single thread chain-stitch, a high-speed plain sewer is used for stitching seems and double needle machines are used for adding top stitching details to items like jeans.

Walking foot machines are invaluable for quilting and sewing coats, as it keeps the fabric moving along without bunching and making for a smoother and faster production. Overlock serger sewing machines, which are also available in smaller versions for the home, create the whipped V stitch along the edge of a seam of T-shirts and other stretchable fabrics.

Sewing Machines Info provides detailed information about industrial, embroidery, antique sewing machines, and sewing machines parts, as well as reviews of best sewing machine manufacturers. Sewing Machines Info is the sister site of Vending Machines Web.

Friday, April 3, 2009

Sewing Tables - They Are A Must Have For Anyone Who Likes To Sew by Jesse Akre

Do you like to sew? If the answer is yes, then the next question that you have to ask yourself is do you like the space that you work in? Sure, sometimes it might be nice to sit at the dining room table and hem up a dress with your family around because they can be nice to talk to. However, there are still those times when it would probably be nice to not have all the distraction. That is why you need to look into fabulous sewing tables and one would be a great addition for your home if you like to sew.

Sewing tables are very practical and provide a lovely area that makes it easy for you to work on different sewing projects. What makes them so practical are the many different features that they can have. Some features include a wonderfully spacious table top where you can lay out and cut patterns out of different fabrics and large drawers so you can store different sewing items that you might have like thread and other tools. And, these are not the only features that these home furnishings have because some will come with additional table top space that can be folded up or down depending upon how much area you need to get the job done. Some can even come with the option of wheels, so if you cannot designate an entire room in your home for sewing, not a problem because you can easily move it around in and out of storage when you need to use it. Plus, another great thing about the wheels is that it lets you transport it from room to room without much effort. So, like before when you needed to get away from all the distraction in the dining or living room, you can easily do it just by wheeling it into your bedroom. It is that simple.

When searching for your sewing table, it is important to keep in mind how you work and what kind of features you will need when doing that work. Like, if you need a space to put your sewing machine, then it is probably a good idea to go with one that is a little bit larger so your entire working space is not taken up by the machine. Or, if you only hand sew items, than you could go with a smaller work area. Along with your work style, it is also important to purchase something that is of high quality and is built to last because you do not want to buy something that you will end up having to replace in a few years. When looking for yours, make sure to buy something that is built out of sturdy materials (like different hardwoods), which ensures that yours will last as long as it should. To see the many available options, one quick and easy way is to go online and do some comparison shopping. Just by the click of the mouse, you will see everything that is out there without even leaving the comfort of your home.

So, if you like to sew, probably one of the best things that you could do is invest in is a fabulous sewing table for your home. It provides you with a functional work area, so you do not have to hog the dining room table every time you have a project to work on.


About the Author

Jesse Akre, owner of many decor sites comments on accent furniture and accent tables. Click: end tables


Thursday, April 2, 2009

Learn Exactly How To Repair Your Sewing Machine At Home! By Alex Asef

My name is Tony Asef and I start my own sewing machine business 21 years ago with little knowledge of repairing sewing machine at that time. I remember very good when I was looking for someone to teach me all trick in sewing machine repair business. But unfortunately no books were around! After 21 years in this business I decide to write all my knowledge and trick in this step-by-step book to teach other people how to do their sewing machine repair at home for themselves or as a business.

As we know Sewing Machine repair is one of the fastest growing businesses in the world today. Newspapers, women’s magazines, dry-goods stores, high schools and colleges are going all out to encourage the millions of American women to do their own sewing, not only to make their own clothes, but also slacks, suits, shirts, sweaters, etc. for their husbands, sons, or boyfriends. Statistics also show that the number of women who now make their family wardrobe has grown tremendously. Now is the time when a sewing machine specialist can write his or her own ticket. Never before have the money-making opportunities been so great in this field, if you know what you're doing. This is also one very prestigious occupation. The latest figures show that over 89 million American women, because of high costs of ready-to-wear garments and undesirable workmanship of store-bought clothes, are now making almost all of the clothes for their families.

That is not all. Most of these women find true enjoyment and satisfaction in making the family wardrobe on their own sewing machine. So it is only natural that the demand for excellent service on these sewing machines is on the upswing and growing by leaps and bounds. Think of it! Eighty-nine million or more sewing machines, not including another 10 million sewing machines in schools of all sorts, such as grade schools, high schools, colleges and universities across the land, schools for the deaf, the handicapped, the children’s homes and old folks’ homes, just to name a few. Plus, the sewing machines in hospitals, prisons, homes of correction, tailor shops, women’s shops, and the list could go on and on.

All of these sewing machines need service at least once a year and quite possibly four or more times each year. I'm well aware that some women are forced to return their sewing machine to repairmen time after time trying to get it fixed properly. Not all, by any means, but many so-called sewing-machine specialists simply do not have the knowledge or the know-how to set up, adjust and retime the modern sewing machine. I've seen sewing machines come out of a repair shop in worse shape than they were when they went in, and I am sure that thousands of women could say "Amen" to that statement. So for the above reasons, I decided to write a complete guide to sewing-machine repair and teach people how to repair their own sewing machine at home. On the very first day, you will find that our simple training method is amazing. I assume that you have had no previous experience with the repair of sewing machines. However, if you have had experience, you will learn how to use your knowledge to the best advantage. Your training will be practical from the first page on through to the end of the book. It is based on proven methods of top sewing-machine technicians.

I will teach you everything you need to know. Admittedly, the book is predominantly about sewing machines with just four of the 70 pages pertaining to. I have gone to great lengths to include along with the copy clear, sharp pictures of many different sewing machines, sewing-machine pails, proper adjustments, cleaning, and timing, etc., so there is no need to flip pages back and forth in order to find the picture that goes with the text. It's clear, and it's simple.

My name is Alex Asef and I start my own sewing machine business 21 years ago with little knowledge of repairing sewing machine at that time. Vist My Site Sewing Machine

Sewing

Sewing or stitching is the fastening of cloth, leather, furs, bark, or other flexible materials, using needle and thread. Its use is nearly universal among human populations and dates back to Paleolithic times (30,000 BCE). Sewing predates the weaving of cloth.

Sewing is used primarily to produce clothing and household furnishings such as curtains, bedclothes, upholstery, and table linens. It is also used for sails, bellows, skin boats, banners, and other items shaped out of flexible materials such as canvas and leather.

Most sewing in the industrial world is done by machines. Pieces of a garment are often first tacked together. The machine has a complex set of gears and arms that pierces thread through the layers of the cloth and semi-securely interlocks the thread.

Some people sew clothes for themselves and their families. More often home sewers sew to repair clothes, such as mending a torn seam or replacing a loose button. A person who sews for a living is known as a seamstress (from seams-mistress) or seamster (from seams-master), dressmaker, tailor, garment worker, machinist, or sweatshop worker.

"Plain" sewing is done for functional reasons: making or mending clothing or household linens. "Fancy" sewing is primarily decorative, including techniques such as shirring, smocking, embroidery, or quilting.

Sewing is the foundation for many needle arts and crafts, such as applique, canvas work, and patchwork.

While sewing is often seen as a low-skill job, the task of designing good-looking three-dimensional shapes from non-stretching two-dimensional fabric generally requires extensive hands-on knowledge of the design and principles of mathematical manifolds. Flat sheets of fabric with holes and slits cut into the fabric can curve and fold in 3D space in extensively complex ways that require a high level of skill and experience to manipulate into a smooth, ripple-free design. Aligning and orienting patterns printed or woven into the fabric further complicates the design process. Once a clothing designer with these skills has created the initial product, the fabric can then be cut using templates and sewn by manual laborers or machines.

Sewing Tables - Finding Some For Your Decor By Jennifer Akre

When it comes to décor in a traditional or country home, many people don't think about the things that can really take it over the top and to the next level.

One of the more underappreciated parts of country décor are sewing machine tables. Think about it. Back then if you wanted a new outfit, tablecloth or any other fabric item, you often had to make it yourself, as there were no discount stores to go grab them at. If they could afford it, no old country home went without one.

Before you rush out and pick one for your home, there is a little bit you need to know about these tables, especially if you want functionality as well. First, you need to know which type you want - machine inside tables or machine on top tables.

Machine Inside Tables

If space is at a premium in your sewing room, you may want to make sure you have a sewing table that can be as compact as possible. In this case, you are likely going to choose from tables where the sewing machine is stored inside the table. When not in use these tables can fold down to a small space, but when you are ready to sew, the top folds open to one side (to give you more work space) and then you can pull your sewing machine up from the inside and lock it to the center of the new, larger table.

Machine On Top Tables

The other option for sewing tables is those with the machine on the top of the table. While you may be thinking that you can put a sewing machine on top of any table, and you might be right, you need to think about all the extras that a sewing table holds. Many offer a slightly indented portion of the surface so once you put the sewing machine down, it will not slide while you are using it. Others have small pull out areas that are a perfect place to set your scissors, trim, bobbins, thread and other items you may need to have nearby.

Once you decide what type of table you need, there is another thing to consider. Do you want a new one or an antique? Either one is an option, but there are some things to consider as you make your selection.

Going New

If you think you want a new sewing table, a simple online Google search for 'sewing tables' should give you a lot of options to work with. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to handle the sewing machine you want to put in them.

The Antique Route

If you want an antique sewing table there are a few things to keep in mind. First make sure you purchase it from a reputable dealer so you know you have the real deal. Next, check over the piece to make sure it is durable and sturdy enough to handle the workload you are going to put on it. If you just want to use this piece for decoration, that's one thing, but if you want to put it to work, make sure it will be able to do the job.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous indoor area by using couture coffee tables and alluring accent tables to make your space extraordinary.



SEWING MACHINE TABLES

SEWING MACHINE TABLES