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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: InABind
Date: 02-13-2006, 10:35 AM (1 of 4)
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My first sewing project is going to be *simple* rectagle placemats (I am very new to sewing). I bought my material - 100% cotton- which I prewashed (according to my "dummies" book - this is what you should do since some fabrics will shrink or colors may run...). The placemats also calls for batting between the fabric. Hopefully this gives you all enough info on the project... now come all my questions! 1. Prewashing - when I did this, there was lots of unravelling (frayed ends) on the edges. Is there someway to prevent this? Should I have done something to the material prior to washing? 2. Batting - In addition to my "sewing for dummies", I bought "quilting for dummies". In the quilting book, it says you need to "quilt" the batting otherwise it will bunch up in the corners. In my pattern it makes no mention of this, just sandwich the batting between the material, sew, turn inside-out & finish. Confused here: What should I be doing? I don't want the placemats to be quilted, just flat. 3. When I cut my material and before sewing the seams, do I need to finish the edging so it doesn't unravel? I didn't think I'd have to since all the seams are going to be on the inside, but now I'm wondering if I need to? Sorry for all the questions. I know I should take sewing lessons, but unfortunately at this time, I'm pretty much homebound due to illness. Thanks for any help you can give me, I really appreciate it. |
User: InABind
Member since: 02-02-2006 Total posts: 12 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 02-13-2006, 11:25 AM (2 of 4)
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To help with fabric unraveling in the wash there are a few of things you can do. One if you own a serger, serge the edges. No serger? You can zig-zag the edge. No zig-zag stitch on your machine? You can stitch the cut edges together with a 1/4 inch seam. You will still get some unraveling but it should be better than nothing. The lazy way and the way I do it is just cut off the raveled bits when I take it out of the dryer. As for the quilting. Placemats don't normally need it. Eventually your batting might work its way to the corners but probably before that happens the placemats will have worn out or you will be ready for new ones. I wouldn't worry about finishing the edges before you sew them together. You are correct in you thinking that it shouldn't matter because they are enclosed in the placemat. If you get into sewing clothing finishing the edges of the cut fabric becomes more important. Don't worry about asking lots of questions. That's why we are here, to help each other. As for taking lessons there are several offered here on the site free of charge. Check out the SWN Homepage (http://sew-whats-new.com/CMS/index.php) or go directly to these links. Sewing Lessons (http://www.sew-whats-new.com/sewinglessons/) Quilting Lessons (http://www.sew-whats-new.com/quiltlessons/index.shtml) Projects (http://www.sew-whats-new.com/projects/projects-index.shtml) I am currently learning how to quilt with the Crayola Quilt (http://www.sew-whats-new.com/quilting/crayon/index.shtml) lessons. 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: InABind
Date: 02-13-2006, 11:46 AM (3 of 4)
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Thanks! lol - I didn't even know there were other pages to this site...thought it was only a message board! Those links are GREAT! I love this site - everyone on here who has answered my posts have been so helpful. I know my questions might seem odd, but if you've never done something before.....well it can be intimidating sometimes (not to mention frustrating!). Thanks again 
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User: InABind
Member since: 02-02-2006 Total posts: 12 |
From: mozeyrn
Date: 02-13-2006, 10:05 PM (4 of 4)
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I have asked some pretty silly questions myself (been out of sewing for over 25 years) but everyone has been helpful with easy to read answers/advice. I have found it's easier to ask a silly question than become discouraged and quit. Don't worry what you ask, your question/answer may help another sewer. I have learned a bunch of new things that way.
- Maureen.
Learning something new with every stitch!! Kenmore 16231000 |
User: mozeyrn
Member since: 11-29-2005 Total posts: 349 |
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