I want to open this with a substitute for the very good but expensive omnigrid ruler.

Eva, this is my 'self-made' helper that I can't do without. It's just a small mirror on an icypole stick (lollypop stick or whatever you call it). I use it to see how much bobbin thread is left without removing the hoop, it saves me time. I just slide it under the hoop with the mirror facing down, then angle it over the clear cover of the bobbin, and hey presto, I can see if I need to change the bobbin! Love and hugs sweetie, and have a terrific day/night.

1 images:[1]

1 comment

by evajungermann 01 Sep 2009

This is brilliant!
I hate this alarm and panic when bobbin ends unexpected.

cleaver idea..........thanks now if I can make one that will come out right. Ha ha

I use the tiny knit pony tail holders to cove my bobbins and keep them from unwinding. I use matching colors to the thread so its easy to decide which one you need. I also use the outside from a thin point marker that I removed the insides from. I use it when I am using aan extra tall spoll of thread to keep it in place when it is unwinding. No need for the expensive wire thread holder extender. Look forward to reading these post. Great question. thanks for asking.

3 comments

by nanniesara 31 Aug 2009

I use an empty mint tin to put broken needles in instead of throwing them in the garbage can. Just be sure a small child doesn't get hold of it. I also use a thread stand that is used for cone thread for my embroidery thread it feeds off great.Cheaper than the fancy thread wire thing.

by evajungermann 01 Sep 2009

Have to try the point marker tip urgently.
The only reason for staying with my machine while it is LOUDly working is to watch the thread. It never! curles up while watching it, but immediately when I left the room.
Could you explain how to install it to the desk/machine?

Worn out needles I collect in a separate box too- some of them for use with unusual material (to mark paper templates for example) and to protect the wild animals when thrown away.
(last week I found a hedgehog wearing a McDonalds plastic Flurry-ice-cream-collar with paper cup attached. He was stucked in it, blind and surely would have starved this way- poor darling.)

by nonmusicmom 01 Sep 2009

My machine has 2 spool pins I have the marken on the back pin the one I use the most when winding bobbbins. The thin line markers are thin enough that the just slide right over the thread pin and it stays in place for me.

I use the scotch tape too. I put a little piece on threadspool as I'm finished with the thread, to avoid the thread gets off the spool.Scotch tape is easily to remove and does not leave glue on the thread, I hope you know what I mean by this use.

1 comment

by evajungermann 01 Sep 2009

YES! Scotch tape is a brand available in germany too and what I love about it: you can write on it.
At the moment I am working on a applique-quilt-poem-project and have stitched out about 12 blocks, 6 to follow- sometimes I have to make a longer break so I forgot which designs (they are very similar autum leaves)I had already used. I glue it to my design board (this I call my wardrobe while having an ongoing project...) and label the blocks with scotch tape with the design number written on it.
Not sure if it leaves glue after 6 month hanging there..... unfinished ;-)))

I have a pair of longnose plyers of which my Dad filed the grooves off to make it smooth. That I use when I undo sts to take hold of the piece of cotton and pull it out. I find it very handy and keeps it with my unpick.

1 comment

by evajungermann 01 Sep 2009

I have such plyers too (from my grandpa) and it was a hard choice if this wouldn't be my favorite sewing accessorie.
I love this when it comes to machine applique but most, when the threader of my machine failures service.

I have found that people who sew (any form) have an insight to find uses for other products and also to invent or create something...It is that inspiration that has made millions of dollars for people and an example of that for one is Velcro..Sometimes we have to think outside the box...Great posting Question..*

Brilliant idea!!!! flower for you!!

This is probably not a new idea, but I can't live with the low tack scotch tape I keep near my machine. I use it to clean up all of the little bits of thread and fuzz that accumulates on my fabric especially when I have to take out some stitches. It prevents little bits of thread or fuzz from getting into the machine and causing problems.

Love the thimble idea. I would add a piece of thick felt or additional leather to pad the area of the thimble where I pushed. This would help keep the needle from puncturing the leather and hopefully make it last longer. I have a wonderful purchased one my MIL found for me several years ago and I've never seen another like it. I have large fingers (I think) and have a difficult time finding a commercial thimble that fits correctly.

GREAT TIP

1 comment

by evajungermann 01 Sep 2009

Very true! These quilting needles (named SHARPS.... could have given me a clue....ouch!) are sharp at the other end too and love to pick through. I was wondering for a metal inlay from the screw-underlay-equipment-whatsit. Washer!
Yes, I will put in a little washer next time.
Thanks! Great!

When I do just about any kind of hand stitching (hemming or shortening garments) I use an old cutting board. The one I have is soooo old, but it makes the perfect "desk" when I want to watch TV and cut the hem off a skirk or pants.

Merci beaucoup; the tips and tricks are very clever!
*4u!
Jacqueline

this is a photo of the thimble template

1 images:[1]

3 comments

by jacquipaul 31 Aug 2009

Merci beaucoup; cute little template. Sadly I had already bought one.
*4u!
Jacqueline

by marjialexa 31 Aug 2009

Very clever, Eva, I have some scrap leather, think I'll try it. A custom made thimble might actually get worn! Hugs, Marji

by shirlener88 31 Aug 2009

Very nice tip.