Sew What’s Up Presents
The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 11-03-2004, 07:47 AM (1 of 87)
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We all have our little corner where we sew or quilt. How about a 5 minute task every day to keep it a little more organized. Some of us have a whole room while others steal a corner of the dining room table so keep this in mind when you are performing your chores. Today let's sweep the floor of all threads, fabric and whatever else is down there. That's it, just sweep and remove what shouldn't be on the floor. Tomorrow we will tackle one more chore. If we do just one thing for 5 full minutes I think we will all be happier with our surroundings. Come on girls, get ready, set, sweep. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 11-03-2004, 07:56 AM (2 of 87)
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My sewing room is the neatest room in the house because my husband doesn't come in and leave stuff wherever he uses it. I am a tidy gal and my room is tidy, thank you very much. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: GreenDragonLady
Date: 11-03-2004, 08:01 AM (3 of 87)
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Mary, please. 5 minutes? That wouldn't even handle the floor in ONE corner of my sewing room! I've actually been very lax lately because I'm anticipating a move into a new room, and I don't want to clean all this up, then move it and reorganize it. I had my hubby take some "before" pictures in my room (right after my wedding, which I made 10 of the outfits for). If I get it organized before I move, I'm going to take some "after" pictures. You won't believe it! photos.yahoo.com/greendragondesigns
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User: GreenDragonLady
Member since: 07-29-2004 Total posts: 495 
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-03-2004, 08:14 AM (4 of 87)
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Ok Dorothy. Dragonlady, if you are going to move your room sweeping the floor won't hold anything up or do any harm. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: sewphisticate
Date: 11-03-2004, 08:22 AM (5 of 87)
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I just moved my sewing room out of my house, so now I call it my studio. I have a teeny-tiny house and my sewing was taking over like it was some kind of mysterious life form. I am amazed at how much stuff I have acquired and forgotten about. I am having trouble organizing it all. I just don't know where to start. Does anyone have any suggestions? I tend to purchase for projects and have a very difficult time giving up the idea of the project, even when the deadline has passed. For example, I purchased everything I needed to make a gorgeous dark silver evening gown for a major event my husband and I were planning on attending shortly after we got married....well, I ended up pregnant and didn't feel like making a dress that wouldn't be appropriate for a preggie, so I put all the stuff aside and forgot about it. We have been married for five years and I still have all the materials and notions. I will never wear an evening dress like the one I planned for, but I still can't bring myself to use the fabric for anything else. Am I crazy or what? Genevieve Genevieve
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User: sewphisticate
Member since: 10-29-2004 Total posts: 20 |
From: CatholicMum
Date: 11-03-2004, 08:32 AM (6 of 87)
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I sew in the kitchen so daily sweeping is a must but I'll pay especial attention to the nooks and crannies near my machine. (((hugs))) Sewphisticate - Would it be possible to find someone else (locally or online) that you could "bless" with your never-to-be-completed projects who might not be able to afford the project otherwise? It might make it easier to pass them along if you know that they are going to a home where they will be appreciated. Or for the evening gown project, if you were to complete it, could you donate it to charity or to the group that provides prom dresses to those girls who otherwise wouldn't have one? Linda
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User: CatholicMum
Member since: 10-31-2004 Total posts: 19 |
From: sewphisticate
Date: 11-03-2004, 11:20 AM (7 of 87)
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Hmmm...charity is a good way to go. I'll have my buddies come over and help me go through everything. I am not sure where, in my area, I could donate fabrics. I honestly don't have the time to start, much less complete, a project of the magnitude of my evening gown. It really is a spectacular design. Since I sew for hire, and custom fit each dress, I am not comfortable making something from a pattern and hoping it will fit someone out there. I have yet to just cut and sew...not even for the most trim, perfectly proportioned ladies I have sewn for. Do any of you know of charities that would welcome quality fabrics and/or patterns? Genevieve Genevieve
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User: sewphisticate
Member since: 10-29-2004 Total posts: 20 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 11-03-2004, 11:37 AM (8 of 87)
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Well I swept the floor Mary. Took fifteen minutes 'cause there was a lot of stuff on the floor that needed to be picked up. I think this is a good idea. I hate going into a messy sewing area. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Hogmami
Date: 11-03-2004, 11:46 AM (9 of 87)
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Hey Mary, how about a day of mending. I'm catching up today because my dear son brought me all the mending for his family last night. But I promise to sweep the floor after I get done. I will also dust and wipe everything down.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800 
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-03-2004, 12:27 PM (10 of 87)
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I think Project Linus is a good place to donate fabrics. This is for quilting fabrics only. For fine dress fabrics, perhaps a local school for costumes or sell privately. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: plrlegal
Date: 11-03-2004, 12:36 PM (11 of 87)
DorothyL could I hire you for a few days or maybe Hogmami, if either of you are in the mood to tackle tidying up, dusting, etc.?  Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-03-2004, 12:51 PM (12 of 87)
Patsy, sweep your own darn floor! 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 11-03-2004, 01:05 PM (13 of 87)
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There are different services around town that help needy people with all sorts of needs.. Not long ago I donated a portable machine I no longer needed to Catholic services because they were helping a widow with 4 or 5 kids whose only job skill was sewing experience and her husband was killed in a car accident.. I donated machine and a dozen or more spools of thread.. They or the Salvation Army in our town along with other organizations help needy families .. Community Links is another favorite of mine.. They help homeless and almost homeless with fresh starts and getting jobs etc...Some use volunteers to do sewing and some help the people themselves learn to do their own..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Chrysantha
Date: 11-03-2004, 02:52 PM (14 of 87)
Does MOVING everything count as a clean up ??? I'm gonna be moving out of my computer/junk room into the dinning room (which we have never used as a dinning room) so I can spread out more..... 
Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: Melanie T
Date: 11-03-2004, 04:37 PM (15 of 87)
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Ok, I picked up all of the toys so we can actually see what the floor looks like and found my worktable. I will vacume the floor after I fold all of my neglected laundry and pick up enough thread pieces so that the vacume cleaner doesn't bind up. I haven't sewed in two days since the stash challange ended and am going through withdrawls. Yesterday I tackled lots of neglected little projects around the house and today we baked cookies. It took me two hours to find the kitchen counter when that project was done. Have a great day Melanie
4 little sewing machine mechanics (6, 4, 2, Born June 14) Ontario Canada |
User: Melanie T
Member since: 09-21-2004 Total posts: 155 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 11-03-2004, 05:00 PM (16 of 87)
Hey Mary! I drug the vacuum cleaner into the sewing room night before last to use my small attachments and clean all the black fabric out of my sewing machine and serger. Hmmm didn't think about using it to sweep the carpet?  Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Hogmami
Date: 11-03-2004, 05:33 PM (17 of 87)
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Ok my sewing room is nice and clean. Mending is done. When outdoors and took care of leaves. I even dusted rest of the house. I keep this up and maybe I will start cooking. No, thats a bad idea. My husband is a chef and does a much better job of cooking than me.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-03-2004, 07:22 PM (18 of 87)
Does just sweeping the walking path in the sewing room count?  My four furballs can even find the bed I have in there for them now!!!!
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User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: sewn-machine
Date: 11-03-2004, 09:33 PM (19 of 87)
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Dorothy - I'm in your camp. My sewing room is the neatest room in my house too. I'm set up in a very small bedroom, so space is at a premium, and I've got wayyyyyyy more stuff than it can accomodate. So after each sewing session, I clean it up and put everything back in it's proper place. When I start my next session, it's in a neat environment, and I feel better with my work. It can get pretty messy while I'm sewing though. Pattern pieces on the floor, books strewn on the cutting table, and loose bobbins rolling around. But when it's all cleaned up, sometimes I just go and sit in there and daydream/plan my next adventure.
A good dog, a sewing machine and an old guitar
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User: sewn-machine
Member since: 08-12-2002 Total posts: 13 
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From: smith972
Date: 11-04-2004, 06:30 AM (20 of 87)
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There is an internet site that i used to give away all types of items...including fabric I will never use...it is freecycle....the idea of the group is to give away items for free to people in your area to prevent more items from ending up in the dumps... i have gotten rid of so many things in my house that would have otherwise ended up in the trash and i have recieved a few items from those making offers....you can also post wants on the board but they ask that you offer something first... |
User: smith972
Member since: 09-10-2004 Total posts: 241 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 11-04-2004, 08:19 AM (21 of 87)
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Yeah Patsy -- what Mary said. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 11-04-2004, 11:39 AM (22 of 87)
 Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-04-2004, 07:20 PM (23 of 87)
| I use Freecycle too!!!! It's a great site for just about anything you wnat to either get rid of or receive from someone. |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-05-2004, 09:39 AM (24 of 87)
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Today is another chore day for our sewing room. We all have fabric that we don't want or know we will never use. Let's do something with it. Find all the fabrics you know you don't want any longer (for whatever reason) and shove them all in a bag. Be ruthless, it's better to donate all that stuff than keep it to sit and gather dust on a shelf. Next, take that bag of fabric and take it to your closest charity or goodwill store. They can make good use of it one way or another. You are doing a good deed and purging your stash at the same time. This is your good deed for the day! 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Magot
Date: 11-05-2004, 03:01 PM (25 of 87)
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You're going to have all those fabric-o-holics going into spasms with that suggestion Mary! Does sorting out all my patterns count for being a good girl! I threw away a bin load of old magazines (with the good bits cut out!). As I sew in the kitchen and Tony has coniptions if there is little bits of thread around the place I always Vac like a Mad Woman before he comes home. He is going away for a few days from Sunday so I am going to turn into a Sewing Slob. hee hee
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626 
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From: Mischka
Date: 11-05-2004, 07:01 PM (26 of 87)
| You can also donate extra fabric to a local community or high school theater group - or even a dance studio. My friends who teach ballet say it can get pretty expensive for the kids' parents, especially around Nutcracker or winter recital season, even if they make their own dancewear and costumes. |
User: Mischka
Member since: 09-01-2004 Total posts: 63 |
From: Dexter
Date: 11-05-2004, 09:49 PM (27 of 87)
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My creativity room is usually flawlessly organized. It is probably the cleanest room in my house, and it also has the most items within it. I spend a great deal of time in there, though, so I’m around it enough to keep it at the best. I have my computer and a few of my Nintendo systems in there for me to play with, too. It is such a wonderful room. The aura within it feels more comfortable than any other room in my house. I recently donated a huge amount of fabric to a local school. I had it piled up from the previous years, just waiting to find that special place to go off to. I’m glad I found a place that appreciated it and will actually use it for creative fun. |
User: Dexter
Member since: 11-05-2004 Total posts: 48 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 11-05-2004, 10:24 PM (28 of 87)
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I cleaned out my material over the summer & sold it at a yard sale for $1 per yd. on the last day it was fill a bag for $1 or .25 each. I sold about 1/2 of what I had . We had another sale in Oct. & what didn't sell my mother in law took which means in a few years I will probably inherit it back. I got rid of 3 egg crates full plus a garbage bag (approx. 500+yds.). I also got rid of a full box of patterns that my kids have outgrown. on the last day of my sale I sold them all to a lady who is home schooling her daughters. Whatever she doesn't use she will donate to charity. What is our next chore?
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115 
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From: Hogmami
Date: 11-05-2004, 11:12 PM (29 of 87)
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I didn't get this one done. I will be working on it tomorrow. I haven't decided where to donate to yet but will find some place.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: susies1955
Date: 11-06-2004, 03:00 AM (30 of 87)
Ok so hate me.  My sewing room is always clean. Maybe it is because I'm 'so' new. LOL. I don't have a stash worth looking at but hope to one day. I guess when your husbands boss implements a benefit package that is of no benefit and costs you over $1200 a month out of your pocket fabric is something you have to anxiously wait for. Love reading this forum, Susie northern NY
http://community.webshots.com/user/susies1955 |
User: susies1955
Member since: 11-07-2003 Total posts: 124 
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From: abear
Date: 11-06-2004, 05:10 AM (31 of 87)
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I am in the dining room too and constantly cleaning. One reason is my 14 month old grand baby is constantly under my feet!! And she can spot a straight pin a mile away!! She has chewed on more fabric then my dog has a bone!! lol abear Holley
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User: abear
Member since: 08-08-2004 Total posts: 27 
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From: smith972
Date: 11-06-2004, 06:55 PM (32 of 87)
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Today is another chore day for our sewing room. We all have fabric that we don't want or know we will never use. Let's do something with it. Find all the fabrics you know you don't want any longer (for whatever reason) and shove them all in a bag. Be ruthless, it's better to donate all that stuff than keep it to sit and gather dust on a shelf. Next, take that bag of fabric and take it to your closest charity or goodwill store. They can make good use of it one way or another. You are doing a good deed and purging your stash at the same time. This is your good deed for the day! I dont think i can get rid of my stash......it feels like it is part of me.....i think i would die if i got rid of it.....how does one slowly withdraw from the stash... |
User: smith972
Member since: 09-10-2004 Total posts: 241
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-08-2004, 10:15 AM (33 of 87)
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Chore for Monday. Patterns lay around and pieces are easily lost. I have done it myself a hundred times. Put any and all patterns you are not working on away. For those of you who sew for the holidays, you are going to be busy so don't have extra stuff getting lost in the shuffle. For those of you who are not going to be sewing, put all your patterns for yourself in the proper envelopes and make sure they are laying around. They can go in zip lock bags, then into a filing cabinet, box or drawer, whatever works best for you. Put garment patterns together in one group, craft related patterns in another group, and children's patterns in yet another group. Donate patterns you no longer use to the local library or goodwill store. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Hogmami
Date: 11-08-2004, 10:46 AM (34 of 87)
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I started doing that a couple of months ago just never finished. Now I have a reason to finish. Off to my room
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: Pudge99
Date: 11-08-2004, 11:34 AM (35 of 87)
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Hey Mary, I thought these were supposed to be five minute chores  . Pattern cleanup and organization in 5 minutes, yeah right. I have been working on that for days now  . Making good progress though. I am putting everything in three ring binders now. Got all my window cling and shrinkydink patterns in one. Then I got one for all the free handouts patterns from Hancock and such. One for all the patterns I print out from the internet. Just finished putting my Kwik Sew books in one. I also put pocket dividers in this one to hold all the traced patterns from the book. My books used to have tissue paper patterns sticking out all over the place because I would just tuck them in where the instructions were. I am gonna make these binders for my kids too so they can start out as organized sewers. They already have a small tool box for their tools and notions. I just sat down at the computer to start scanning in all my pattern envelopes when I saw this post and had to giggle. By the way my floor is a disaster again and I haven't even sewn since I swept it. My sewing room is also the homework/crafting room so the mess must be the kids'. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-08-2004, 02:52 PM (36 of 87)
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I have put all my patterns in those 4x6 yellow envelopes with the # and sizes on the outside and then put the pattern envelopes in clear pockets, single layer, and then put them in a binder in # order. I also put the yellow envelopes in plastic drawers in # order. So far so good, I can leaf through the binder and find what I like and then pull the pattern. I then took all my information and put it on the computer with Microsoft Access, listing all the information that I would need, it puts the #'s in order for me so I can print it out and have it with me when I go to the fabric store. I can see at a glance if I have the pattern already and the size it is. I have been able to take the program one step further and can print the info out by Pattern Co., sizes, discription of the patterns, even gender and if it takes a special fabric. That's the most organiation I have been able to do in three days!!!!  I need to take a coffee break now and I don't even drink the stuff.The next thing to tackle is "the stash", trying to get the fabrics put into seasons so I can sew up clothing by the season. I think after that I will work on the quilting stash!!! LOL I hate seeing my stash get smaller and smaller, it's so sad.  I just might have to go and sit in a fabric store and inhale really deep!!!!!
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User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 11-08-2004, 06:14 PM (37 of 87)
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I did that one before my yard sale also. I went from 3 over stuffed drawers to 3 drawers with plenty of room to organize & see what I have. Since I didn't bring any work home today I think i will finish the mending & ironing so I can start some new projects. Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: Hogmami
Date: 11-08-2004, 06:53 PM (38 of 87)
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That does it. I have to start over. I just read some great ideas. Thanks, ladies. I'm going to put everything in a box, take over to my mom's and work on it while sitting with her when she comes home from the hospital. I just throught of a better idea, I will get my mom to help me. She was a libarian (spelled wrong). Be good theraphy for her.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: Melanie T
Date: 11-08-2004, 09:19 PM (39 of 87)
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Ok, I am a little behind, I cleaned out about 35 yards of fabric to give to Christian Aid Ministries to send to their sewing schools in Eastern Europe and Central America. I am sending about 10 yards to school with my son and another 15 yards to the Mennonite Central Committee thrift shop for their craft section. I still have a lot of fabric, but now I can see the stuff that I want to use. Now you want me to look at my patterns. This fabric thing is difficult enough. Ok, another day. Then I suppose you will want me to clean out my notions and sewing machine collection. Sigh, it really needs it. Melanie
4 little sewing machine mechanics (6, 4, 2, Born June 14) Ontario Canada |
User: Melanie T
Member since: 09-21-2004 Total posts: 155 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-09-2004, 02:37 AM (40 of 87)
Hey Jan  GET RID OF FABRIC!!!!! who said to do that!!!!! I have to sweep my sewing floor every other day and it's in a 12 X 12 bedroom with shelves along two walls and a cutting table which I hardly ever see the top of but the floor is sweep often. I'm still in shock about that comment about the fabric. I'm definately a BIG PACK RAT!!!!!! I always put my patterns away back in their envelope when I'm done or they would get lost. Another thing I do is when I'm working on a project that calls for a pattern I get a little basket and put all of the peices to the pattern after I cut it out in the basket, so they stay together when I'm off making other things. I get distracted easy and don't always finish things right away when I start something, so then I know where it is when I come back to that project. Mary bite your tongue. LOL ROFL GASPPPPP Throw away fabric
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Cherylau
Date: 11-09-2004, 05:04 AM (41 of 87)
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Hi, this is my first post at this site. I've only been at this house for 3 years and I've lost count of the times I've rearranged my craft/sewing room. Could never seem to get it right. I had fabrics everywhere, in bags, in the linen cupboard. Took me ages to find the piece I wanted. I ended up pinching new shelves that my husband bought for his shed (much to his digust), ended up with 4 of them along one wall. I've been using or donating my stash, really cracking down on the stuff I buy too. Just this week I cleared one of the shelf units and to DH's delight moved it out. (to his disgust it was then moved to the laundry ). Am in the process of rearranging the rest of the shelves. I moved a 4 drawer filing cabinet in to file my patterns and project pages. I need a bed in there but found it took too much room when I put my new worktable in. So it had to be pulled out, spent way too much time curled up on it reading instead of crafting. But I've set it up so that the table is easily replaced by the bed when needed. I'm getting there, the room needs to be properly together by mid december because I have a guest staying then and we don't want her picking her way through the mess to get to bed. At the moment I am working on that as well as making gifts for Christmas. Cheryl |
User: Cherylau
Member since: 11-09-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: smith972
Date: 11-09-2004, 07:46 AM (42 of 87)
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Chore for Monday. Patterns lay around and pieces are easily lost. I have done it myself a hundred times. Put any and all patterns you are not working on away. For those of you who sew for the holidays, you are going to be busy so don't have extra stuff getting lost in the shuffle. For those of you who are not going to be sewing, put all your patterns for yourself in the proper envelopes and make sure they are laying around. They can go in zip lock bags, then into a filing cabinet, box or drawer, whatever works best for you. Put garment patterns together in one group, craft related patterns in another group, and children's patterns in yet another group. Donate patterns you no longer use to the local library or goodwill store. I use this method one step further...i have the ones for each childs size broken down as well as mine and my hubbies seperated....then in the grouping for my DD i have her favoriates in the front... |
User: smith972
Member since: 09-10-2004 Total posts: 241
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From: mamagoose
Date: 11-09-2004, 08:07 AM (43 of 87)
| Oh, Mary it took longer than 5 minutes to get my dress mess cleaned up from just about every room! I have to make myself clean up around my sewing machine and run the vac w/attachment in there. Sometimes I find pockets of time to do so when talking to dh, since it's right near the kitchen and breakfast bar area. I feel so much better when it's cleaned up before sewing. Think I've got "a bug" yest and today, will probably be on the couch most of the day today. |
User: mamagoose
Member since: 01-26-2002 Total posts: 168 |
From: blanken6
Date: 11-10-2004, 03:22 AM (44 of 87)
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I don't need to sweep....I just let all my boys play next to my sewing cabinet, the wash machine takes care of the rest!
Proverbs 31:10-31
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User: blanken6
Member since: 08-11-2004 Total posts: 41 
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From: SBEAR
Date: 11-10-2004, 07:51 AM (45 of 87)
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I sew in one of the little bedrooms upstairs and it is now chock full of stuff! I have my stuff from a lifetime of sewing, plus many of my mother's things, plus a great deal of equipment etc from my sister in law. DH cleared out his brother's house after he passed away and brought back a great deal of sewing equipment without knowing what it was. It's a good thing, because she had wonderful equipment and was an expert dressmaker. It has taken me months to organize everything, but it's done! I put fabrics into big plastic tubs, and the other things I put into dresser drawers. I made a label for each drawer, so I know what is where. The fabrics are laundered, measured off, and labelled with masking tape. I keep a little Swiffer duster up there, and in the few seconds while the iron is heating up, I dust around. I was inspired by this strand, and the other day I actually brought the big floor swiffer up there and got all the threads, dust, clippings, etc, off the floor! |
User: SBEAR
Member since: 09-15-2004 Total posts: 31 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-10-2004, 07:59 AM (46 of 87)
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Cherylau, hi and welcome to Sew Whats New. Quit complaining girls, you are accomplishing a lot!
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Pudge99
Date: 11-10-2004, 10:28 AM (47 of 87)
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Okay. Patterns are almost done. Got a few wandering around the house somewhere. I have no clue where they are but I know that I bought them. Found a few really old books and patterns that were my grandmothers. I had forgoten that I had them. It is funny to see the pictures with the ladies waists so thin. Did fat ladies wear those tight undergarments too? I could imagine trying to squeeze myself into one of those things. So Mary what's next? Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-10-2004, 11:57 AM (48 of 87)
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Those patterns most likely were BEFORE McDonald's came on the scene!!!! So my guess is yes they fit back then because there was no such thing as a FAT PERSON, you ate home cooked meals, and if they were anything like my cooking!!!!
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User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: bunzino
Date: 11-10-2004, 02:32 PM (49 of 87)
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I looked at freecycle.com and don't understand it. It looks like a web browser. Can someone explain how I list stuff I'd like to pass along? Thanks, nancy |
User: bunzino
Member since: 08-16-2002 Total posts: 119 |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-13-2004, 12:01 AM (50 of 87)
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when you go to the main sight it will ask you for your region of the country. Ohio is under Central, but then it is listed in Alphabetical order by the states in the region. Once you find your state, look for the freecycle close to your town or county, click the "goto" and it will ask you to reigistar for that one site. You will get an email telling you that you have been approved or not, and the rules that apply to using Freecycle. I just received a very nice email from a University girl who adpoted a stray kitten from my back porch, there was know way that I could care for it when it just showed up, and all the shelters around here would not take it due to overflows. The poor thing was almost skin and bones and had some hair loss. I just prayed that I did the right thing, and I think I did this time. "Milicent (Milli) the kitty is doing great and loving her new digs. She's taken to acting like she owns the place. All her fur has grown back in and she has a nice little pot belly from eating and sleeping all day. She enjoys getting in my way while I'm doing homework and rolling around in catnip. I just want to thank you for kindness in taking care of her and getting her to me. She's been so much fun to have and I'm glad to have her around. Keep in touch anytime!" I have been able to help out a young mother who was giving her daughter a hamster for her 5th birthday, I had an extra cage that was almost brand new so I gave it to her. The little girl wrote me a thank email. I even got more flowers for my flower beds this fall!!! I think you will like it, but you have to check it lots!!! If you do go with it, I would set up a email account just for that to use, makes it easier to know freecycle from junk mail. |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Ann Made
Date: 11-13-2004, 11:21 AM (51 of 87)
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Mary, I am enjoying this site. During the summer we painted and floored my sewing room. It still isn't done but I spent the time going through patterns and got rid of 2 pattern boxes of patterns. Some of the patterns got put into ziplock bags with their tracings. That made me really happy and I gave DD the two empty pattern boxes for her patterns and she is happy. Then I moved onto my fabric. It isn't nearly where I want it to be but I did get rid of a couple of big boxes of fabric. The rest is sorted and stored in a dresser and two rubbermaid trunks. There is some on top of the dresser for western shirts and I will get at it in due time. I have a 3 drawer chest on wheels that has some fabric in it as they are sorted for quilting projects. My sewing and quilting books are all sorted also so I am happy. My sewing machine is at school and the two tables in my sewing room are empty. I will set up during the holidays and will keep it clean as I like my sewing room to be neat and tidy. Ann
Learning is a journey, not a race.
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User: Ann Made
Member since: 04-07-2001 Total posts: 67 
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-15-2004, 10:49 AM (52 of 87)
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Ann Made, good to hear from you again. I have been away for a couple of days so here is your next chore. Windows, do you have windows in your sewing space. If so, clean them, clear off the window sills and wash the frames. A nice bright window puts a smile on your face. If you don't have windows, round up all your notions you use and put them together in one space. I use an old Tupperware cutlery tray to store everything. It sits in between my two machines. Put all your markers (chalk, pens, pencils, etc.) in one place. I use a pencil case. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Magot
Date: 11-15-2004, 11:19 AM (53 of 87)
 I can't get windows clean - we live in a hard water area and it doesn't matter what I do they are always smeary. If anyone has a foolproof method I'm willing to learn.
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: Hogmami
Date: 11-15-2004, 11:28 AM (54 of 87)
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My husband and I did all the windows yesterday inside and out. We wanted it done before snow flies. So I am doing the notion thing. Try washing windows with newspaper.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: Pudge99
Date: 11-15-2004, 11:28 AM (55 of 87)
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Magot, Have you tried full strength vinegar and newspaper? I swear by the vinegar and use it everywhere we have lived. I normally just use paper towels because I don't care if a I leave a little lint behind, but some people are picky so they use the newspaper. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-15-2004, 11:50 AM (56 of 87)
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I also have hard water here in my area. I have found that if I wash the windows first with hot soapy water with ammonia in it and the wipe with newspaper I can then follow with the vinegar and water rinse. I also wash one side in a up/down motion and the other with a side to side, that way I can tell which side has the streaks on it. |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Magot
Date: 11-15-2004, 12:07 PM (57 of 87)
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I know I have vingared and newspapered ( it's what my Mum always did) and the soapy water, and just really hot clean water...I still streak.. It must be me.
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 11-15-2004, 12:44 PM (58 of 87)
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Magot, Is there a smoker in the house.??. Back when I used to smoke, I had a problem getting mine squeaky clean, but no more.... The vinegar and newspaper works great for me.. Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: Magot
Date: 11-15-2004, 12:57 PM (59 of 87)
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nope, just us asthmatics here..
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-29-2004, 11:05 AM (60 of 87)
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Okay girls, listen up. I haven't given you any chores in over two weeks. It's time to get back at it. Today you should look after your interfacings and stabilizers. Pieces of interfacing should be stored on empty paper towel rolls or empty cardboard fabric bolts. Use rubber bands to keep them from slipping off. Stuff the instructions on how to use inside the tube. Stabilizers should be stored upright in a basket or waste container if they are on a tube. Cover them over with a plastic bag to keep moisture and dust out. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Sewhappie
Date: 11-29-2004, 01:14 PM (61 of 87)
| Ahhhhhhh Mary,you want us to work (whinning), we just got back here, we need time to adjust!!!!!! |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Di Davis
Date: 11-29-2004, 01:43 PM (62 of 87)
Mary, I have had problems in the past with putting rubber bands around things. I ruined some very nice white lace by doing that; the lace didn't get used for some time and the rubber band left a brown mark around it.  Di |
User: Di Davis
Member since: 11-10-2004 Total posts: 3 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-29-2004, 06:00 PM (63 of 87)
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Sorry for your lace problem. Maybe just a ribbon tied if things don't get used for a while.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Di Davis
Date: 11-29-2004, 06:45 PM (64 of 87)
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I was thinking that too! Anyway, glad to see the site is back up and running! Di |
User: Di Davis
Member since: 11-10-2004 Total posts: 3 |
From: bunzino
Date: 11-29-2004, 07:02 PM (65 of 87)
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I like to sew an "envelope" out of interfacing/stabilizer instructions and put the actual goods inside. If it needs any further labeling, I use a large marker. All fit side by side on edge in a drawer. nancy |
User: bunzino
Member since: 08-16-2002 Total posts: 119 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-29-2004, 07:13 PM (66 of 87)
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What an excellent idea Nancy, thanks for that.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: beachgirl
Date: 11-29-2004, 09:05 PM (67 of 87)
| Mary, good info for sure. I have always done as you said but awhile back I found one of those kitchen wrap things that hang on a wall. They are to hold wax paper, plastic wrap, foil & such. Each has a cutter. I painted it, hung it on a sewing room wall & it holds 4 tubes of stabilizers. I don't put the water soluble on there as our humidity is too high here. I do cover each roll with plastic & hold it on with paper clips. Works like a charm. Someone else might find this handy also. I also put each direction inside the tube plus on the side of the holder wrote what kind it is & stuck it on with rolled up painters tape. At a glance I can tell what I need & it's on a wall close to where I use it. Theresa |
User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615 
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 11-29-2004, 10:30 PM (68 of 87)
Cool tip Theresa, I'll have to try that since I have serveral different kinds of stablizer I'm trying at the moment. I keep them in a desk drawer but your idea sounds great. 
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: mommgsews
Date: 11-30-2004, 01:40 AM (69 of 87)
| I use a different method for storing my interfacings and stabilizers. I learned it from someone else but cannot remeber who or I'd give them the credit for the idea. I take the plastic film that has the directions on it, usually sold wrapped around the interfacing at the store, and cut out one full length of the directions. I fold that in half crosswise and sew it into a pocket. The pocket then holds the matching interfacing or stabilizer and the pockets are stored in a small basket inside the cabinet. The pocket makes a great container plus all of the pertinent usage information is right there with it. |
User: mommgsews
Member since: 03-15-2004 Total posts: 73
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From: MaryW
Date: 11-30-2004, 12:51 PM (70 of 87)
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Is everyone ready for another chore. Here it is. Gather up all the buttons you have that are one of a kind or odd or maybe antique. Cut a square of velvet, felt or other firm plain colored fabric. Sew the buttons to this square in rows. Now, you can either frame this or perhaps make a few squares and keep it as a "button book" to give as a gift to another seamstress. You could lace the pages together with rattail cord or maybe ribbon. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Erma
Date: 11-30-2004, 08:52 PM (71 of 87)
| These ideas may seem obvious to some......sweeping out the sewing area....etc., but when you break it down into steps, Mary, it's a little less discouraging. I am sooooo disorganized. I have tons of fabric in so many different types....collected from my mother, mother-in-law and other people who thought I must be a "fabric collector" because I so much of it all over the place. I do vaccuum the floor every Thursday 'cause that's when I tackle the basement. Every time I give away fabric I don't think I'll need, I need it! Right now I'm make a pointsettia quilt, (the same type of technique for log cabin), and I'm sewing onto squares of fabric I was just going to throw away. Patterns.....never thought of getting rid of patterns.....have 3 deep shelves, filing cabinet and at least 1 box full of patterns.....going to face that first. Thanks. Enjoy this every much. |
User: Erma
Member since: 10-08-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: sewingrandma
Date: 12-02-2004, 08:35 PM (72 of 87)
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I keep my laces in small zip lock bags and my odds and ends of buttons in the small zip bags that you can get for embroidrey floss. I put matching buttons in the same bag, or like themes, or colors or whatever is needed. I bought a large ring to keep all these bags on so all I have to do is flip thru the bags to see what I need. Very handy until the cat gets to it.
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: MaryW
Date: 12-07-2004, 01:59 PM (73 of 87)
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Hey everybody. I have not posted a chore for some time now. If you are busy sewing, take one minute and clean your machine. No, don't unthread, just take a small brush or pipe cleaner and clean around your bobbin case, drop your feed dogs and clean along with any fuzz you gather up elsewhere. Remember, raise your feed dogs again to continue on sewing.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: MaryW
Date: 12-07-2004, 01:59 PM (74 of 87)
Brockie, that is an excellent tip. Thanks. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: sewingrandma
Date: 12-07-2004, 05:56 PM (75 of 87)
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Mary, you're welcome!
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 12-08-2004, 09:51 AM (76 of 87)
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My buttons have to stay in my rubbermaid box b/c that is how I entertain my 2 yr old (who thankfully never puts anything in his mouth) while I sew, he loves the ones shaped like baseballs etc. and likes to play with the scraps as well. I also have a large collection of dollar store plastic to hold most items, my favourite is a fishing lure box (like the xstitch floss ones but $2 less in the sports section in the same store!) to hold my bernina feet. My biggest problem is keeping my projects organized they tend to spill over b/c I usually am working on 2 or 3 things at once. Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: mommgsews
Date: 12-08-2004, 11:50 PM (77 of 87)
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I found the Glad Slide lock bags in the 3 gallon, yes 3 gallon size work great to keep most of my projects together. I can fold the fabric and put it in the bag along with the pattern and notions and then "file' them in a large basket. It sometimes will require more than one bag to contain a project but the bags keep everything I need in one place and stow away if I need the space for something else. I just found them recently and I love them! |
User: mommgsews
Member since: 03-15-2004 Total posts: 73
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From: sewingrandma
Date: 12-09-2004, 07:58 AM (78 of 87)
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I've been known to cut out numerous projects in one day. I bought a lot of those plastic shoe boxes and put all the pieces and patterns in the box to keep them all together and separated. They stack neatly and the cats can't get the lids off-yet, so they stay neat and clean until I'm ready to sew. If I have to stop working on a project I just gather it all up and put it back in the box for another day.
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 12-10-2004, 10:18 AM (79 of 87)
3 gallon bags eh? Sounds good, will have to hit Zellers tomorrow 
Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838
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From: mommgsews
Date: 12-10-2004, 11:00 PM (80 of 87)
| Yup, The 3 gallon bags are really nice! They will hold a small or medium sized project and only take up as much space as is necessary for the project. If I have a larger project it may take more than one bag. But they are cheap and reusable when I finish the current creation. |
User: mommgsews
Member since: 03-15-2004 Total posts: 73
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From: MaryW
Date: 12-13-2004, 12:11 PM (81 of 87)
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Hey ladies, ready for another little chore. Weed out those notions. If you have notions that you haven't used in the last two years, sell or give them away rather than use up valuable storage space. I find there are more quilting notions around than I will ever use. Someone else can use what you don't. The same goes for fabric. If it has sat around for more than two years, you should probably sell or donate that too.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Hogmami
Date: 12-13-2004, 03:51 PM (82 of 87)
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Did that. I gave my daughter 4 boxes of stuff this summer. When I took my room apart in September to paint and put new carpet down, I sold some stuff and gave some to a friend.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: MaryW
Date: 12-14-2004, 10:19 AM (83 of 87)
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Here is your chore for today girls. Invest in some plastic hangars. They are usually quite inexpensive. These are to hang all your planned projects. Hang the fabric on the hangar, put your pattern, notions, etc. in a Ziploc bag. Punch a hole in the bag and slip it over your hangar. Ta daa, your projects are all visible and organized waiting for you. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Hogmami
Date: 12-14-2004, 10:42 AM (84 of 87)
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Great idea. Have the hangers, will put in my sewing room and this afternoon will dig out projects waiting to be finished and put on hangers so I can see them and hopefully get finished before I start more.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: MaryW
Date: 12-21-2004, 11:40 AM (85 of 87)
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This will be your last chore before the busy holiday season hits. You guessed it. Clean up and put pins and rotary cutters along with scissors away where little hands can't find them. My grandson dropped a pair of my scissors the other day and almost stabbed his foot. He is barefoot 365 days a year when he's home. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Hogmami
Date: 12-21-2004, 12:04 PM (86 of 87)
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I will do that as soon as I clean out the driveway and find two cars. Do it after because my sewing room is nice and warm. I know how it is to drop scissors and get your feet. I have a bad habit of going barefoot in my sewing room. Those pins in the bottom of the feet hurt.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: plrlegal
Date: 12-21-2004, 08:06 PM (87 of 87)
I might as well be barefooted in the house. I just wear the little slide scuffs that only cover the middle of the top of my foot. Bare toes are always sticking out and I barely missed them the other night with an open rotary cutter. I very seldom use that particular cutter either because it doesn't automatically close. I most generally use my Olfa ergonomic cutter that automatically closes when you release the handle but it is 60 mm and was too big for what I was cutting at the time. I think I'll take my 40% off Joann coupons and invest in a small olfa ergonomic cutter so i don't have to use those that don't automatically close. It was a very close call and I could have very well ended up going to the emergency room for stitches.  Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
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