tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post1860042108394037144..comments2024-03-14T16:03:32.434-04:00Comments on Gertie's New Blog for Better Sewing: There Has Got to Be a Better Way to Do ThisGertiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04314542159287533507noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-68138572990694808912010-05-08T13:48:39.167-04:002010-05-08T13:48:39.167-04:00I'm sure you've already tried this by now,...I'm sure you've already tried this by now, but I can't recommend enough the hot wax treatment (wax the thread, then press w/ an iron) and use a fine crochet hook to cover the "core" threads - it goes much faster than using a needle. <br /><br />I rarely hand sew anything these days without waxing up my thread first.ChristineBnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-73091537942923778942010-05-08T07:30:37.577-04:002010-05-08T07:30:37.577-04:00Keep at it!
It is a couture touch.
I sometimes ...Keep at it!<br /><br />It is a couture touch. <br /><br />I sometimes do beaded jewelry and the phrase - practice makes perfect - applies here as well as there!RoseAGhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01360864547510178832noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-49995108377613371912010-05-07T12:52:23.918-04:002010-05-07T12:52:23.918-04:00Gertie! Chain on your lovely fabric!?!? I say, if ...Gertie! Chain on your lovely fabric!?!? I say, if you reject the blanket stitch, try a knitted i-cord. It is exceptionally simple to do yourself (or have a knitting friend help you - or ask me; I know how to use the mail)and will result in a very sturdy substitute. Choose embroidery floss in a color that will disappear into your fabric instead of the yarn that is used in the video.<br />http://www.knittinghelp.com/videos/knitting-tipsAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-6359090499766693242010-05-07T11:34:00.100-04:002010-05-07T11:34:00.100-04:00I love the buttons and I think you should keep try...I love the buttons and I think you should keep trying. To make it more professional looking, ditch the button twist and use something thick and glossy: #5 or 10 perle cotton, or some embroidery floss. The extra heft makes it fairly easy to get professional results. <br /><br />If you pack the stitches (that is, if you make a blanket stitch and then slide it to be closer to the ones you've already made) you'll get a nice, dense connecting cord. Godspeed!Stefhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11916754049646261441noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-76071901360948345272010-05-07T09:56:57.910-04:002010-05-07T09:56:57.910-04:00You've gotten great advice.
Personally, I woul...You've gotten great advice.<br />Personally, I would stick to VBNoBS and the thread method. You are already off to a lovely start.<br />I embroider quite a bit, and my first reaction was the same as Nora's -- it would be much easier if you could secure the buttons and therefore create a consistent tension while you do the blanket stitches. I would also avoid the embroidery floss (wrong look, and wrong kind of ply) and try the beeswax. I've not ironed my waxed thread, but then again, i've used it for embroidering, not sewing. You're not far off from a polished result -- spend half an hour or so, and you'll be there. And gorgeous, gorgeous buttons!!ElizabethDeenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-70450842200585575692010-05-07T07:55:15.883-04:002010-05-07T07:55:15.883-04:00Not exactly vintage style, but I did make myself a...Not exactly vintage style, but I did make myself a set once using buttons and wire. I put the instructions here: http://www.burdastyle.com/projects/cuff-links/instructions/1Beckyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09913795373618902575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-28298076029816440622010-05-07T04:09:23.489-04:002010-05-07T04:09:23.489-04:00someone has already mentioned but i think i should...someone has already mentioned but i think i should back them up about ironing the thread.<br /><br />i've noticed it makes a huge difference when it comes to keeping silk thread from tangling.Unknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12566789647356468402noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-23806746946773684222010-05-07T02:33:17.127-04:002010-05-07T02:33:17.127-04:00I work in a vintage store and there we had a jacke...I work in a vintage store and there we had a jacket with linked buttons and there were linked by metal chains. I think that looks much more classy and you need just couple of tools (scissors in the worst case) to fix'em. Otherwise I used to twirl a coloured thread around a strand of my hair when I was little, so it looks like a neat little round wire, you could try that. Just fix the thread at one button and twist around so that the new layer of thread comes neatly close to the previous one. Then fix with couple of knots on the other. They never unwind if fixed properly.<br />Good luck!AnyaKhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03124928418768027228noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-77566454180558435482010-05-07T02:24:02.995-04:002010-05-07T02:24:02.995-04:00First of all, you need to use either embroidery th...First of all, you need to use either embroidery thread or crochet thread. I prefer crochet thread for this kind of application. It's better twisted together than embroidery and you don't have to worry about separating the thread into individual strands. I think it simply looks better.<br /><br />The tip about letting the needle dangle is a good one. It keeps it from becoming twisted. Also, make sure you're using the same stitch every time. Changing the way or angle you're doing the blanket stitch can make it look twisted.<br /><br />I'm not sure I'd go the chain route, but if you do, they sell it at Home Depot. I think it's by the foot. Personally, I'd go for thread, because you can get it in a color to match the dress and thus blend better.Laurahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07717835382469677601noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-53002782453099870642010-05-06T22:23:07.649-04:002010-05-06T22:23:07.649-04:00I'm not nearly advanced enough to give you any...I'm not nearly advanced enough to give you any advice, but I covet your buttons. They are delish!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-43187655616185382892010-05-06T19:36:33.629-04:002010-05-06T19:36:33.629-04:00This will take ages but try using only one strand ...This will take ages but try using only one strand of thread when doing your blanket stitch and try to get them as close as possible.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-42198057053208405862010-05-06T18:21:53.650-04:002010-05-06T18:21:53.650-04:00Just read a few comments above. You COULD just ski...Just read a few comments above. You COULD just skip the jump rings and save a little money and you wouldn't need the jewelry pliers either, just the cutter. Cut the chain to desired length and sew the ends to the buttons. Brilliant! I am such a nerd for doing things the RIGHT way that sometimes I don't see the obvious solutions to a mixed media project.<br /><br />So this would run you about $2-$4 and you could have it done in 10 minutes! Besides there being a fab selection of chains out there from delicate to chunky and in all kinds of metal and painted finishes! Have fun!Holly S.https://www.blogger.com/profile/05612119142146588803noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-69622855133075874902010-05-06T18:13:56.052-04:002010-05-06T18:13:56.052-04:00This is the method I use to do thread loops on a d...This is the method I use to do thread loops on a dress for a belt...there is a crochet chain method (thread chain) in the Coture Sewing Techniques book, pg. 33 that shows how to do this. It is a bit more decorative, but might be a bit flimsy. Maybe you could double your thread?<br /><br />That said, I make jewelry and it is NOT hard. Go to your local hobby shop with a jewelry making section. You will find chain lengths in different finishes and configurations. They look like necklaces on a card ($2-$4). Pick your favorite. Pick up a pair of mini jewelry pliers (about $6). A small pack of "jump rings" to join your chain length to the buttons (about $1.50-2.00) You will also need a way to cut the chain to your desired length. I already had a pair of wide pliers at home with a cutter behind the nose part, but they sell these as well. Beware the small flimsy looking ones.<br /><br />So you could finish this with chain very easily, learn a new embellishment technique, and do it for about $10! If you have any problems or want a step-by-step, just email me. I know by now you just want to get this project over with! Good luck!Holly S.https://www.blogger.com/profile/05612119142146588803noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-87169106514313079382010-05-06T17:47:57.163-04:002010-05-06T17:47:57.163-04:00It's like hemp jewelry with a needle and threa...It's like hemp jewelry with a needle and thread. Done right, and with the comment about tension, waxing, heavier thread and practice, it does make a beautiful stitch.<br /><br />I generally do my buttons, cuffed or not, like this since I don't rip them off, and I use a heavier thread to do so.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-73859235090595527042010-05-06T16:36:09.730-04:002010-05-06T16:36:09.730-04:00You've got to wax your silk twist and create a...You've got to wax your silk twist and create a tension situation. If you don't have a third hand (like a jeweler's clip) tie one button to a stationary object where you do your hand sewing. This will give you more control - the button away from you won't be flopping about. Use the buttonhole stitch, it takes practice but once you master it you'll have learned a wonderful technique. Go for it!!lorenakittyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09560547401772928574noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-46528778735737596522010-05-06T16:25:30.575-04:002010-05-06T16:25:30.575-04:00I've made dozens of thread chains by this meth...I've made dozens of thread chains by this method of the buttonhole/blanket stitch over a few strands of thread. This is the same technique you would use to loosely attach linings to the garment at the hem on pants legs or a coat. Or to make a thread loop for a small button.<br />1) Wax the thread. Remember to press the thread between paper towels or something to set the wax into the thread.<br />2) Keep the blanket stitches close together but be careful about pulling them tightly together. This causes twisting of the chain.<br />3) Practice. Really. I always make a short test chain to remind my fingers how to do it.BetsyVhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14824251716471351275noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-31167773079202326452010-05-06T16:20:13.843-04:002010-05-06T16:20:13.843-04:00What if you used a strip of soutache to connect th...What if you used a strip of soutache to connect the two buttons and then used your machine to make tight zig-zag stitches or a tight overlock stitch over the soutache? It's a really cute idea - I hope you find a solution that works.Twill Jillhttp://www.braverhomesandgardens.blogspot.comnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-66169202438384798462010-05-06T16:08:38.585-04:002010-05-06T16:08:38.585-04:00I'm not sure what bedding stitches are, but th...I'm not sure what bedding stitches are, but they look like half slip knots to me (um yeah, I learned knots for windsurfing). As a kid, I used to make bracelets like that, with different strands of color as the middle thread, changing the knotting thread every couple of centimeters. I imagine it's more difficult with thin thread and between two buttons, though. <br />If you want to stay with the knots/stitches, the easiest way might be to find a way to fix them so the middle thread is pulled tautly. Maybe your hubby could hold them for the time it takes you to stitch?Alessahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16605755512224178329noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-9706392174457233932010-05-06T15:46:45.571-04:002010-05-06T15:46:45.571-04:00I used to have a RTW shirt that had linked buttons...I used to have a RTW shirt that had linked buttons for the cuffs. The buttons were held together by a short length of thin elastic. Because it stretches, it doesn't have to be very long. Sorry I don't have a picture - but it looked good and worked well. (Although, not authentic for the time period of this patter, I'm sure)Saranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-75628290200805791392010-05-06T15:40:38.439-04:002010-05-06T15:40:38.439-04:00I agree with Michelle's tips for trying the su...I agree with Michelle's tips for trying the suggested blanket stitch method again. Your end result should look like a wrapped cord with a single ridge along one side. Maybe it would help if you could secure one button in place so you only have to hold one to create the tension in the cord. Try adding a few more strands to the center, it should make it less futsy.Ryanhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08848789612409874592noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-24044495453243353772010-05-06T15:34:42.216-04:002010-05-06T15:34:42.216-04:00I'd say a chain with two jump rings or a spagh...I'd say a chain with two jump rings or a spaghetti strap. The thread looks flimsy.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-77384019419999987482010-05-06T15:11:08.279-04:002010-05-06T15:11:08.279-04:00I much prefer the look of hand embroidery to a cha...I much prefer the look of hand embroidery to a chain, personally.<br /><br />I'm going to echo the suggestions of others to wax the thread, and to secure the threads linking the buttons before beginning the blanket stitches. <br /><br />I'll add these tips for the blanket stitches:<br />--After you complete a single blanket stitch, push it up snugly against the remaining stitches with your thumbnail so it lies smoothly.<br />--Let go of your needle (let it dangle) every few stitches to let the thread return to its natural twist. Most people will rotate the needle slightly with every stitch, which eventually makes kinks in the thread. From your photo, it looks to me as though that happened here.<br /><br />Good luck!Michellenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-66224022535644737752010-05-06T14:52:34.148-04:002010-05-06T14:52:34.148-04:00I agree with all those who oppose chain. Instead I...I agree with all those who oppose chain. Instead I would suggest "practice makes perfect" or the easy way out which would be a crochet chain.<br /><br />But yes, you definitly need to wax the thread carefully before attempting the blanket stitch this way.<br /><br />Excuse my bad spelling (not native speaker).<br /><br />Best of luck!Annahttp://www.mormorhadestil.senoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-26724435242467632582010-05-06T14:19:38.297-04:002010-05-06T14:19:38.297-04:00Crocheted or braided floss is the way to go. Chain...Crocheted or braided floss is the way to go. Chain will catch on your threads eventually.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01855413111142257771noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259455441759015869.post-53159026928732928212010-05-06T13:35:05.666-04:002010-05-06T13:35:05.666-04:00Are you waxing your thread? Hand sewing like this...Are you waxing your thread? Hand sewing like this leads to a nightmare of knots and tangles but beeswax will make it a lot easier.Arielnoreply@blogger.com