Stitchers' Tips

From Beverley: Make some extra blocks for coordinating pillows for your new quilt. It is always harder to repeat the block a few months/weeks later, when your have finally finished your beautiful quilt.
From Joan: When I purchase a design for a specific project, I put all of the materials in a big Zip-loc bag to make it, then put the bag in a box by my machine. I have a box for Christmas and another for miscellaneous projects. I always have something ready for a quick gift, and no last minute searching for just the right fabric!
From Beverly: While pressing your completed quilting blocks, it's so easy to distort them. Cut a squared paper template the size that the completed block should be and size each block to this at the ironing board. Use only a pick up and press down action with the iron, don't stretch the fabric. Now you have perfectly sized blocks to join together.
From Shirlene: If you are doing a lot of finished seams - use a edge joining foot. Do a fairly tight zig-zag stitch and then join the edges of the fabric with the foot, and a zig- zag stitch. Nice finished seams. 
From Mickie: When quilting a large, heavy quilt on your machine, use cans of veggies or fruit to hold your quilt on your table, instead of buying expensive weights to help hold your fabric in place. Just make sure the cans are clean!
From DeVon: When you make a bookmark, use a tassel like you use for curtains. Put it through the hole and then pull the tassel through the loop. You can buy small ones -- they work great. 
From Diane: Take a clear, plastic, page protector, then find a quilting or embroidery design you want to use. Trace out your design onto the clear plastic with a permanent marker. Put the clear page over your project to see how it will fit and look inside the block, in the setting square or triangle, on sashing, borders, projects, etc. Save the page in a three ring binder for future design options on your next project. Works great for knowing where to place an item and how big an area is needed.
From Ruth C.: I discovered that by pinning my fabrics together horizontally rather than vertically, I don't have to worry about sewing over pins on my machine. It is just as effective and saves a step, you don't have to remove the pins as you sew.
From Beverly: With back to school coming up, start now and make some colorful bookmarks to send along with your students.
From Suzanne: I test stitch designs before I use them on muslin or old towels. If they come out fine, I cut them into blocks and store them. This way, when I need a fast gift like a quilt or applique, I take them out from my stash to use. It saves lots of time.
From Judy: I love the project pages and have purchased a lot of designs based on some projects I've seen. Whenever I download the designs, I also print a copy of the project, so I won't forget what I intended to use the designs for.
From Barbara: I hate to pin. Instead of pinning, I often use a glue stick made of washable glue. I also use glue as an adhesive for fabric on stabilizer, when embroidering.
From Nadyne: If you collect a lot of alphabets but find that you only use a few letters, you may want to try what I do -- I play with the letters and make borders and designs. For example, try putting the points of the letters A or V together and you end up with a decorative circle. The letters B, C, and D repeated sideways make a lovely border. B and D can also make small frames. These examples don't work with all alphabets but you may be surprised at the different designs you can make just using letters from decorative alphabets. The letter X is always a winner, and S makes lovely scrolls...Have fun!
From Leigh Ann: Needing a better way to attach bias tape to my project, other than pinning, I gently pressed open the tape then applied a quick shot of temporary spray adhesive. The tape was easily manipulated to its proper location and remained firmly in place without pins until stitched.
From Betty: My sister-in-law said she always downloads the free designs from Embroidery Library. I was only downloading the ones I liked or thought I would use. I started doing that, and I have used so many of the designs I didn't think I would use to begin with. My main example is the Awareness Cancer Tree. I make a lot of things for cancer patients and I use it so much.
From Beverly: The next time you are shopping for fat quarters check the craft isle for bandanas. They come in bright colors -- neon, animal prints, and lots of fun designs. Very inexpensive.
From Cathy: I have a tip for making neat bias binding edges on pot holders. I use a plastic lid to draw rounded corners, leaving one top corner square for the loop. No mitering for me! Sew the binding to the front, right sides together. Cut a very thin strip of Fusible Light, Heat 'n' Bond (paper covered), and iron it on the seam allowance of the back side, then remove the paper. Fold over the top side, press it in place to secure, and topstitch from the front. Works very well.
From DeVon: When you make a bookmark, use a tassel like you use for curtains. Put it through the hole and then put the tassel through its hoop. You can buy small ones. They work great.
From Caroline: I save my salvage pieces for one of my granddaughters (age 9). She cuts them into 6" pieces and ties on elastic ponytail rings. These make for colorful and fancy ponytail scrunchies.
From Roz: You can sew a stainless steel chain to the bottom of a garden flag to keep it from flapping around in the wind. The chain actually looks nice on the back side since its shiny, and it really keeps the flag down even in Northern Michigan Winds.
From Beverly: Get a jump on Christmas! If you do one Christmas project a week, from now until then, you will have a very nice collection. Even if it is something as small as a snowflake. Keep your collection in a pretty container and add to it regularly.
From Judith: Hang the Bendable Bright Light around your neck, so you can see better when hand-sewing, such as bindings on a quilt. 
From Vickiannette: Try using a left-over sliver of bath soap to mark lines on your fabric. It just comes off with the steam from your iron.
From Rita: When making a quilt for someone, I like to put a care Instruction label on it. So whomever I'm making it for, will know how to wash it to prolong the life of the quilt. 
From Diane: I use a recipe box and cards to keep track of my family's and grandchildren's sizes, favorite colors and interests. I write the information in pencil so I can change it as they age, or as interests change. Whenever I need an idea for a quilt, gift, or outfit I find this very helpful.
From Karen: I keep several pieces of fabric cut to fit my hoops, ready to use at a moment's notice for testing designs. Each is pressed and starched and hung on twine. I have no room for it to lie flat.
From Penny: When making paper templates for magnets, door hangers, or other in-the-hoop items, I use brown paper grocery bags. The paper is heavier, making a more sturdy template. Saving these templates is easy, too. I just iron flat (be sure to use a pressing cloth) and fold up. When I want to use them again, I simply unfold and iron if necessary.
From Tonya: Don't know what to do with those extra stitch outs? Make it a work of art! Purchase a framed artist canvas and wrap your fabric over top. I got mine at the local discount store. Now you can have wonderful art for any decor!
From Beverly: Look through your button collection or buy some new ones, to add to your embroidered flowers. Use them right in the middle of your 3D, freestanding lace or applique flowers. It adds a bit of fun to your embroidery.
From Annie: After selecting a design to stitch on to children's clothing, use a rinse away blue pen to trace out the pattern on fabric. Then, stitch out the design, if the design is a little off center, you can adjust easily.
From Karen: I have learned that it is much easier to clip threads on free-standing lace before I rinse out the stabilizer. It is easy to see and to clip those left over bits of thread.
From Sharon: Keep several charm packs on hand to have a nice assortment of fabrics to use in appliques.
From Beverly: If you haven't tried it yet buy some Mylar for a special project. It adds bling to ornaments and everyday projects. You can find Mylar designs here at Embroidery Library!
From Margaret: I want to comment on the instructions for the flowers not made in-the-hoop. If the flower is made your way, your customers will us a lot of stabilizer. They can get the same results by omitting the final stitch in the in-the-hoop instructions. When they rinse it out, all pieces will fall apart and can be put back together any way they want. This will result in saved supplies and happy customers.
From Shirlene: Did you know that thread looks darker on the spool than it does on fabric? Be sure to choose thread a shade darker than the material you'll be using it on. 
From Jan: I don't need to buy much wrapping paper anymore! I do my stitch-outs on a variety of novelty and floral prints. Then, when I need to wrap little gifts, I just sew them up as little gift bags and tie them with ribbon. People LOVE them!
From Mavis: I was using the daffodil designs but got tired of yellow. I clicked on Google, typed in "daffodil", and all the color combination pictures came up. It certainly widens your color scope.
From Alison: Often, I have a couple of embroidery projects going on at once, some are waiting for supplies. I keep handy little plastic baskets with thread selections for each project. That way, I know for sure which colors are for which project! 
From Shirlene: Even though it seems tedious, I suggest you clip all your thread jumps in between each of your color changes. It's often easier and produces a better result - rather than waiting until the design is completed and you have lots of jump stitches that you have sewn over. What a mess that can be! I like to say -- make the back look as good as you can.
From Jan: We never have enough time for Christmas projects. So now, my friends and I set aside the 25th of each month to embroider and complete projects just for Christmas!
From Helena: For cute little wall hangings, instead of buying expensive batting, buy ironing board underlay form the Dollar store. It's a much better value!
From Peggy: If you have separate sewing and embroidery machines, plan your projects so that you can sew while your embroidery machine is running. Always have a sewing project going on the side! You will have more fun and get a lot more done.
From Christie: Instead of using different colors of "good" thread to test lace embroidery, I always stitch the designs out in white. When purchased on large spools, white thread can be much cheaper. If the design turns out, I put it in a separate container to use later as hostess gifts or presents.
From Beverly: When using iron-on adhesives, grab a sheet of parchment paper from the kitchen and use it under your applique. It keeps any sticky residue off of your ironing board cover. It can also be used as a pressing cloth on top.
From Terri:  When appliqueing, I always sew out the die line on cutaway, then I turn over and trace the back onto Wonder Under and iron on fabric. Cut it out and it's ready to go with the perfect shape I need, and I do not have to trim around the fabric.
From Joanne: To help pleats hold up during washing, mix 2 cups water with 1/2 cup white vinegar. Soak a pressing cloth in the mixture, wring out, place over the pleat and iron dry.
From Shirlene: Prepare a pleat for ironing by sliding a bobby pin onto each pleat at the bottom, to hold them all in place, while you press or use a high steam. Do not place the iron directly on the bobbin pin and be sure to remove it after.  
From Christine: Colored fine tip fabric pens will touch up any flaws or spaces in your finished embroidery.
From Ruth C.: Wondering what to do with those UFO's that you have no desire to finish? How about placing all the required materials and pattern into a neat parcel with the name of a family member on it. Then, someday when your family is sorting through your things, they will find it thinking that you had intended to make it up for them and hopefully they will either finish it themselves or take it to someone to have it finished for them.
From Karen: I enjoy making freestanding lace bowls and other items, but had trouble lining up the pieces. I now use my edge joining foot to attach each piece without trouble. They sew together quickly and beautifully.
From Noretta: As a gift item, I like to take a design, add a recipe, and the actual goodie. For example, cherries would yield a cherry cheesecake recipe, and a cherry embroidered on a towel. Then, I would bake the item and give them that as well.
From Lucy: When I'm getting a T-shirt ready to hoop, I tape the shoulders to the table. Then, I get the stabilizers ready and tape them to the bottom hoop, slip it in between the shirt and position the hoop in the right place. Gently lay the top hoop on top of the bottom hoop and snap it in place. Remove the tape carefully and begin your embroidery. This helps me get everything nice and straight, and tight, hope it helps you too!
From Kris: Whenever I have a wedding to attend, I always include a fleece blanket with their names, wedding date, and a design on it. A personal item is always a welcome surprise.
From Jan: I keep a stack of those inexpensive cotton dish towels on hand to test stitch my designs on -- I use all 4 corners. Now I have plenty of fun, if not perfect, decorated towels to use instead of paper towels for quick cleanup and spills.
From Ruth: Try using Angelina fibers in place of Mylar on some of your designs.
From Sally: When I embroider small letters or alphabets, the letters stitch out much better if I use bobbin thread in the bobbin and in the top of the machine.
From Martine: When embroidering a design with a fringe, use a different color for the fringe part. That way, you know which threads to cut to free the fringe without accidentally cutting something else.
From Nadyne: When using my rotary cutter and ruler for cutting strips etc., I find that my ruler does not always stay put, no matter how hard I try to keep it straight. I discovered that if you extend the ruler a bit, on to a piece of rubber kitchen shelf liner (found at the dollar store), the ruler will not move, resulting in nice straight cuts.
From Shirlene: Here is one handy tip for your ironing board - take the lovely cover off, place a large amount of aluminum foil on the ironing board and around the tip of your board. Place your cover back over the aluminum foil and iron away - the aluminum foil will generate heat and will press your fabric from both sides - fast and quickly.
From Beverly: If you like to make free standing lace flowers and would like realistic stems and leaves, check your local craft store for artificial flowers. You can get them very inexpensively and remove the flower head. Replace with your free standing lace and just pop in a vase.
From Jan: When stitching lace doilies, I like to use the jumbo thread spools. I don't have a large thread rack, so I just place the spool on the floor right in front of my machine. To keep it from falling over on its side, I place the thread in a nice little wooden bowl I have. It works great, and I don't have to buy, or find a place to put a large thread holder behind my machine.
From Marietta: I have found that the best place to dry freestanding lace, that I want to be quite stiff and straight, is on an aluminum cookie sheet. I soak just long enough to dissolve the water-soluble stabilizer and press lightly with fingers to remove some of the water. Place on cookie sheet quite wet, smooth, and let dry. Lace will dry perfectly straight, nice and stiff.
From Kathy: When converting a sweater into a pillow, use twill tape or other non-stretch material in the seams to prevent stretching out of shape while sewing. Mark equal lengths first to keep your sides symmetrical.
From Dorla: I am not a quilter, but I save all my practice embroidery pieces and give them to a friend who incorporates them into small quilts for a youth cancer center. The children get cold when taking their treatments, and they can choose their quilt and take it home.
From Patricia: Enjoying MN cold & snowy winters, I'm making many different lace snowflakes, which bring memories of cutting folded paper snowflakes as a child - no two were ever the same! They all will hang on next years' Christmas tree!
From Patricia: Instead of buying the thin pillow cover protectors, I purchase twin mattress covers -- they're cheaper and can make two very thick pillow covers. Using Velcro to close them at the ends, it works great and they really protect those expensive down pillows.
From Cindy: I was window shopping through the project section of the web site and an idea came to mind. Embellish scrapbooking pages with "in the hoop" or "freestanding lace" sayings, charms, frames, miniatures, the list can go on and on. Most crafter's have more then one crafting skill under their belt, and who doesn't love pictures?
From Breck: While stitching out designs, listen to a book on tape. Feed your mind and soul!
From Suzette: Increase your productivity and manage your time. While my machine stitches 1 design, I get the other hoop, fabric and design ready. When the first hoop comes off, I immediately put the prepared hoop on!
From Wendy: Whenever I have a bar of soap that is down to a sliver, I let it dry out. It's great for marking on fabric. I use it to mark the "crosshairs" to center my embroidery designs. The soap marks usually wipe off easily -- test first on a scrap of the fabric you are using.
From Wendy: After completing a project that requires matching thread in the bobbin, I use the leftover bobbin thread to make miniature stand alone lace designs. When I have a collection of various colors made, I turn them into wine charms. They make great hostess gifts and it makes use of what would otherwise be wasted thread.
From Joanne: I save large envelopes from the mail, cutting off one end to remove the mail. My Ellageo uses floppies, and now instead of having piles of unknown contents, I slide the floppy into an envelope, and write on the outside the designs I have downloaded, along with notes to myself as to color, or what project they are to be used for. 
From Sue: Always stitch out a practice run on inexpensive fabric before you use the final blank you have purchased. So if there is a problem, you can correct it before you stitch your final project.
From Shirlene: When you have finished wrapping packages, don't hesitate to do it up with a pretty FSL Ornament or Charm - it makes the package look complete and professionally wrapped. Stars, Angels, Bells, Cardinals, and Snowflakes are great for this - but be sure it is in a color that matches your ribbon, wrapping or coordinates with the recipients colors for their tree or home. Happy Stitching.
From Sue: There is always a small amount of thread left on a bobbin - rather than just pulling it off and wasting it, embroider a greeting card with the last bit. Cards only take a few minutes and before you know it, you'll have an entire stack to send out.
From Beverley: If you don't want to spoil your fabric with marker pens that don't always wash out, use little stickers for center points or pin paper marked to the exact size of your design. Remove when the design is ready to stitch.
From Suzette: When you rinse freestanding lace and you have not cut all the jump stitches, quickly cut them. It's much harder after they have dried!
From Leigh Ann: Can't cut a straight line, and a cutting mat and rotary cutting tool are not in your budget, or the one you have is too small? An inexpensive laser level works great. Just follow the laser line for a perfectly straight line every time!
From MAD14kt: To keep my sewing seam straight on my machine, I use a post-it-note on my sewing machine plate.
From Beverly: Buy a package of 4x4 assorted charm squares, for quilting. Use these for small appliques. There is a lot of variety to choose from in each pack.
From Anita: I was away from home, helping a friend do a sewing project, and in need of a cutting board. Unable to find a cardboard cutting mat, I bought a science project board. There are some available with grids on them.
From Ruth: Looking for ideas for Christmas Gifts? Check out the free projects, listed on www.embroiderylibraryprojects.com. Featured in the Home Decor section, I found the Insulated Bread Blanket. I have made up several! I purchased round baskets from the Dollar Store, which measure approx. 8" at the base, lined the basket with the bread blanket, added heating instructions, and filled it with items related to making Bread. I used clear-wrap (also available at the Dollar Store) and tied a colorful bow at the top. I can't wait to see how well these gifts will be received.
From Eleen: Whenever I go to shops, I always visit the linen section. If pillowcases, napkins, etc. are on sale or at a low price (like after Christmas) I stock up. I use these for trial stitching. If they don't turn out well, they become part of my cleaning bag. Otherwise I use them when needed -- for unexpected gifts, etc.
From Beverly: Cover a framed canvas with denim or fabric of your choice. Use this to show off your freestanding lace items for sale or display. Hold them in place with straight pins.
From Beverley: When making a small project, just repeat the step you have just done. When finished, you have two-of-a-kind. All the fabric, threads, and designs have already been sorted. I have just made two cute children's bags this way.
From Robin: I use my leftover fleece to stitch designs on, then cut squares to size. Once I have four squares, I sew them together to make a cube, leaving about a 3 inch opening on one side. Then stuff with fiberfill for a soft baby block.
From Gayle: My tip is to use the Stitcher's Tips! It has guided me through many trials -- just this morning it helped me with a metallic thread dilemma that turned out beautifully after using two of the tips.
From Jenny T.: Keep all your sew outs. They can be trimmed into squares to make centers of 9-patch squares for quilts, pillows or table runners. Also cut to 3 1/2 inches and sew a layer on top, turn, iron and top-stitch -- Voila! Coasters!
From Breck: Now's a great time to whip up a bunch of holiday lollipop holders. There are lots of cute designs and they are quick and easy. Have them ready for all the children in the neighborhood, carolers, or just a few special friends. Also you can make a bunch to donate to your church or any of your favorite charity groups.
From Nadyne: When embroidering a design on a shoulder, especially on jackets, make a note of which side the wearer carries a shoulder bag, golf bag, or the like. This way, the design can go on the opposite side where it will be seen. Many designs go unnoticed because they are always covered up!
From Patricia: Embroider sets of days of the week dish towels. Towels should be changed every day to avoid germs. Having the day on them will alert you to the fact that they need to be changed.
From Beverly: I keep a separate account just for embroidery supplies. Each month I set aside "X" amount of dollars. If I don't use it all, it rolls over to the next month. It makes online shopping fun and easy.
From Tara: Before drawing placement lines with a template, I slide a sheet of tracing paper under the fabric. It transfers the markings to the wrong side of the fabric - much faster than drawing lines twice and helps match up to the alignment on the hoop.
From Shirlene: Stock up now on your Christmas supplies. The quicker you get what you need, when the time comes around for you to be stitching out your projects, the easier it will be to have everything on hand and ready to go. You will not have to back-order the items that everyone else is trying to order at the last minute, either.
From Chris: Use cheap hand towels and flannels to practice stitching. That way, if they look good they can become part of a gift, if they don't work, then use them for yourself.
From Beverly: When doing a project with lots of color changes, cut a pipe cleaner or chenille stem in half and use it to twist the bobbin and spool together. No more searching for the right thread.
From Karen: Save trial-stitched design blocks and when you have enough, assemble them into lap or baby quilts and donate them to local charities. I usually donate at least 10 baby quilts a year to our state's Children's Hospital and the lap quilts go to nursing homes.
From Emily: Cut holiday print fabric and stabilizer into just the right sizes for your hoops for quick holiday gifts. Sew them up in a jiffy!
From Jenny: When I make gifts for people, I always take a photo and store it in a folder named "gifts". This way when a year or two goes by, I won't forget that I already gave "them" a pillow or "her" a purse.
From Ronny: We have just started getting off brand 1 gallon ice cream containers. The containers used to be round, now they are rectangle and perfect for storing embroidered blocks. Snap the plastic cover on and everything is in one place with a handy little handle. I love it!
From Beverly: Between now and Christmas, make up some extra ornaments, small stockings and candy cane holders. Put these aside to have on hand when visitors drop by. If you make a few each week you will be ready for the holidays.
From Barb: I spray my new (made-by-me) ironing board covers with fabric protector. It helps to keep the cover clean for a longer period of time.
From Emily: Gather your friends together and plan a date to work on holiday projects together. It's a fun way to make lots of gifts and share ideas with friends.
From Chris: Borrow embroidery and craft magazines from the public library for ideas. This leaves more money to buy designs and essentials!
From Emily: Keep on the lookout for designs that would make nice holiday gifts for your postman, hair stylist or teacher. Getting on early start will make you feel terrific.
From Charlene: When I am threading a cord, ribbon, or elastic through a seam I use 2 safety pins and a long crochet hook. I attach one safety pin to one end of the cord, ribbon or elastic and the other safety pin to the other end, then pin that second safety pin to the fabric. I then take my long crochet hook and feed it through the seam and hook the loose safety pin and glide the cord, ribbon or elastic right through. No more pinch and pull to work the safety pin through the seam. It is a real time saver!
From Judy: I have found that a felt squares help to remove chalk markings. I use a light color on light fabrics and a dark color on dark fabrics.
From Breck: Start your embroidery machine early in the morning, you'll get more done each day. Try one Christmas project a week from now until the holidays.
From Peggy: When cutting away the excess stabilizer after embroidering a project, try using applique scissors. The big paddle on one side holds the fabric down so you don't accidentally cut it.
From Tony: When washing material for projects that will unravel, I just stitch the cut ends with a zig-zag stitch and there are no messy "strings" when I take it out of the washer.
From Beverly: Check the back to school sales for great prices on tape, glue sticks, marking pens and other supplies. Also, look for back packs and cloth pencil cases to embroider. Stock up now while the sales are ongoing.
From Beverly: Now is a good time to take inventory of your supplies and order what you need for upcoming holiday projects.
From Shirlene: I love lace and enjoy stitching out any freestanding lace designs, I like to have something that looks vintage in my lace items. So, I have found that if I stitch with serger thread in the top and bobbin, I can achieve that 'Old World' look easily. You do have to clean your bobbin area often, when using serger thread, as it tends to get rather fuzzy.
From Barbara: When I am sewing, and especially serging, I take off my shoes so that I get a better feel to foot pedal. It gives me more control.
From Ronny: I keep an assortment of fine tip permanent markers in case a thread color doesn't come through exactly like I want it to. A small touch up can make all the difference.
From Rachel: Do something active, like yoga, while doing the embroidery part of a project, instead of reading a book. Then you get some exercise even if you spend all day sewing/embroidering.
From Ruth: Whenever I use embroidery in one of the blocks of a quilt, I do the embroidery before I cut out the block. This way, if the embroidery causes the fabric to pull, I still have the correct size square. If the fabric I'm working with is quite large, then I cut out the square one inch larger than needed so that I have loads of room to square it in the end.
From Cindy: When the good colors are gone from the discount thread kits, (every body has them) and all is left are strange colors, I get creative. This week I saw a lot of green and a lot of bright colors, so I'm thinking ferns, leaves and trees for one quilt and summer or circus designs for another. Then, I can go shopping for more thread!
From Rachel: When you have a lot of one thing to make, break it into pieces like an assembly line. I do the first part on all of them, then the next, and so on. Then I don't forget what I did and it also means that I don't need all of my tools out, just the ones for that part.
From Bobbye: When cutting out patterns, then sewing the pieces of fabric, I keep a supply of plastic clothes pins handy to clip the pieces together. I find this is one of the easiest ways to organize and save the pieces as I use them.
From Edith: I use an 18-egg carton with holes poked in the top to sort threads used in a design as an inexpensive thread "stand" and to keep them from rolling off the table.
From Ronny: Instead of pinning my fabric to the stabilizer, I almost always try to use painters tape to fasten it. That way, I don't have to worry about my machine hitting a pin.
From Nancy K.: I am an avid chap stick user and keep some EVERYWHERE in my house -- but especially by my sewing machines that do not have automatic needle threaders. I've found that if I run the thread between my lips with chap stick on, then threading the needle is much easier! Chap stick has wax in it and my guess is that it is just enough to 'stiffen' up the thread for easier threading. I keep some in my sewing basket for hand sewing as well. I generally cut off the end that I've 'chap sticked' up so that any color in the chap stick does not come off onto my project. Need an inexpensive source? Avon, dollar stores, or discount stores.
From Rachel: When embroidering a waterproof jacket with two layers, hoop the stabilizer and use spray adhesive to attach the jacket. Then, line the second layer up and baste around the edge of the hoop, basting all three layers together.

Tip from Kris: For all the new babies born in our family and at our church, I make a fleece baby blanket with their full name, birth date and a design on it. It has become a cherished (and now expected) gift.

Tip from Ruth: A flex arm magnifier light that attaches to the tabletop or sewing cabinet is a must to inspect your latest machine embroidery item.

Tip from Therese: I often spend an entire day on multiple sewing/embroidery projects. When I know that this will happen, I place my iron and ironing board in another room that is the greatest distance from my sewing/embroidery machines. This forces me to walk between both areas, and helps me to get the exercise that I would otherwise miss.

Tip from Rachel: When doing an embroidery design that will take a while, don't waste your time sitting around and watching it, multi-task! You can cut cloth or plan another piece while waiting.

Tip from Mary: When stitching out a design on a very thick towel with larger than normal "loops", iron the towel before hooping to smooth out the loops. They won't poke through your design, and will lay flat under your stitching, even if you have used wash away stabilizer on the top.

Tip from Barbara: If you need to take a small iron and press while something is in the hoop, you can place a potholder underneath to use as a pressing pad.

Tip from Diane: I couldn't see my markings when channel quilting, so I used painters tape to keep the lines straight and equally apart. Love that stuff!

Tip from Therese: Whenever you have a project that uses multiple pieces of fabric (as in a fabric book) that must be of equal size, you can accomplish this task by placing a basting stitch before or after you embroider the designs on each separate piece of fabric. Then, you can sew all the pieces of fabric together using the basting stitches as guides for perfect alignment.
Tip from Sheila: When embroidering on a special project that it is important for no bobbin thread to show, instead of changing bobbin thread to match your top thread, use a bobbin thread that matches the garment. I have had great success with this technique.
Tip from Beverly: Buy a large desk calendar to keep track of special occasions that you will need gifts for. Work on your projects several weeks before you need them to have them ready.
Tip from Ronny: I sometime test my patterns. Once I find out if I like them or not I use an iron on backing and I have really cute patches.
Tip from Linda: I have found that using a single hole throat plate works wonderfully when stitching on t-shirts. I have been doing some designs on shirts for our church's pre-school (fairly large) and the director was impressed that I had no puckering on the shirts. I did make sure it wasn't an extremely dense design, but the single hole throat plate prevents the fabric from going down in the hole, and keeps the fabric from moving and puckering.
Tip from Beverly: Some of my best ideas come to me at night. That is why I keep a notepad on the nightstand to jot down those ideas!
Tip from Barbara: I check Embroidery Library Stitchers' Showcase every day, because it gives me inspiration and ideas.
Tip from Joyce: When my "to do" list of embroidery projects seems a bit much, I jot down the items in order of "when needed" on a piece of paper. Makes the "to do" list seem more manageable, especially when I am able to draw a line thru the ones completed.
Tip from Ruth: When ever I make up a quilt square using paper piecing, there is a concern that I will cut up the original pattern. I use a red marking pen and write across the top of the pattern "original". Now I can cut and sew without worrying. Then when I finish, I simply store the original in a zip lock bag from the dollar store, label the pattern number or name on the bag. I then use a hole punch so that I can securely place it in a binder ready to use the next time.
Tip from Barbara: Instead of "finger pressing", I use a small roller that is generally used for seaming wallpaper. It leaves a nice, crisp, seam. You can find them at paint and wallpaper stores.
Tip from Nancy: I love to embroider blocks to sew together to make quilts. I found that if I use a heavy spray starch and iron my blocks before stitching, I have a much neater, crisper looking finished project. Now I keep those little cans of heavy spray starch around for stitching on any light weight fabric. The heavy starch helps to stabilize the fabric a bit and I end up with much less puckering than with stabilizer and fabric alone!
Tip from Ronny: When I stitch out practice designs, I put fusible webbing on the back, cut them out carefully and I have my next patch for the kids' clothes or anything else that needs patching.
Tip from Patricia: When you sew out a test design on your embroidery machine, don't throw it away, buy a package of blank cards and turn it into a greeting card.
Tip from Beverly: I love to brighten someone's day by giving a small free standing lace butterfly, heart, or flower. It makes me feel good as well as the person who receives it.
Tip from Tonya: When making baby bibs out of hand towels, if I do not have ribbing for the neck, I cut the neck ribbing out of an old t-shirt and use it. This works great.
Tip from Marlene: Instead of soaking an item in water to dissolve the water soluble stabilizer I use a Q-tip soaked in cold water to trace the stitching lines. Presto!
Tip from Nancy K.: Ever had problems with your sewing machine or foot pedal 'walking' around on you? I use shelf liner under both, and now you can purchase it in so many wonderful colors to match any decor or mood. Check out the dollar stores, you can get a pretty good sized roll for just a buck! If your shelf liner does start to slip on you, just swish it around in some clean water, let it air dry and just like magic it is back to it's non-slip self! Don't forget to take some with you when you go to retreats or classes!
Tip from Christine M.: Every time I download a new embroidery design, I print out the design with the color chart. I view all the colors by doing a sample and make any changes of colors needed. I write the correct color and number on the line, I make any necessary notes for future information and put the sample with the print out sheets in a clear sheet protector in a notebook. Taking the time initially to do a sample cuts down on time in the future. I have found this to be invaluable when I am limited in time to get something done for a gift. The notebook I put all samples in continues to grow and grow and grow - start with a large ringed one, it will fill quickly!
Tip from Sue: When quilting, to separate units when chain piecing, use a small letter opener with a sharp edge for cutting. It works great to cut threads between those chained pieced units. Wrapping paper cutters work good too - these are longer, pencil shaped, and you can find them in retail stores.
Tip from Donna: When I print your wonderful project instructions, I reduce the page size by about 80%. This gives me a large margin to make notes about thread colors, fabrics, embellishments and other ideas.
Tip from Pat H.: To remove the water soluble marking lines from your fabric, use a 1" sponge brush. Just wet the sponge and dab on the marks. I like to remove the marks as soon as I have it in the hoop so the fabric doesn't have a chance to 'keep' the mark.
Tip from Margaret: For a truly invisible way to center a design for embroidery, simply press in the vertical and horizontal lines with an iron. When you're finished there is no residue and nothing to wash out!
Tip from Denise: I have 2 sewing machines and there is no way can I remember what decorative stitches I like. So, I created a hand made index to have beside my machines. I stitched each decorative stitch onto felt squares and label them according to stitch length and width. I have one for each machine and I also labeled each felt piece with the name of the machine.
Tip from Ruth: Once I have lined all my blocks for my quilt, I use a piece of masking tape in the upper left hand corner and number the squares working from left to right. By doing this, I know exactly where to place each block and which is the top or bottom.
Tip from Beverly: When sewing a vintage design on kitchen towels, add a border of rickrack for a more nostalgic look.
From Diane: I have found that using a heavier fabric for dense designs is great. If I want to put a dense design on a T-shirt, I sew the design on the heavy fabric and then stitch that onto the shirt. It works real well for me.
From Jane: Heavy Christmas stocking holders work well to hold hoops when not in use. And, I cut a hole near the bottom of a gallon plastic bag and slip it over the hoops. I can see them and they are neatly covered.
From Barbara: I always visit the "Stitchers' Showcase". When I see something I like, I copy the photo and paste it into a folder so I can come back at a later time and look for the ideas that I liked. I call the folder "Project Ideas".
From Sue M.: To mark where you left off when sewing binding down on a quilt, use a chip clip. You can leave the needle threaded, insert it into the binding and just place the clip over the threaded needle where you stopped. It makes it easy to see at a glance where you left off. These clips can be purchased in just about any grocery, dollar or department store and are used for closing bags of chips.
From Nancy K.: Once I have decided on the placement of my quilt blocks, I take a digital photo of the arrangement. This way if things get turned around when sewing or I need to put it away and come back to it later, I can quickly put all the blocks back in the order that I spent so much time deciding on!
From Vivian: I use dots, the kind that you find in office supply stores, to mark fabric. They have light adhesive backing and will stay put on fabric but they can also be easily removed and re-used. They are great for lining up center points for design placement, button holes etc. And, you can purchase them an many colors.
From Mary: While working on my Christmas projects, I found that the Scotch paper cutter is great for cutting stabilizer. It's faster than scissors and easy to use. My husband bought me a couple extras for Christmas after I was telling him how great it was.
From Susan: I use an old baby monitor to keep track of when my embroidery machine stops and needs my attention.
From Ronny: When I have stabilizer remaining on the back of a project I use a toothbrush to get that last little bit off.
From Linda: Instead of using glass hurricanes for my candle cozies, I use a straight 16 oz drinking glass. I then add a battery operated tea-light for a flame free, smoke free and worry free candle. No fire, no allergy trigger, no mess!
From Virginia: I use a pen cap to store the stylus of my computerized sewing machine. A strip of double-stick tape secures it to the front of my machine and I spend a lot less time looking for it.
From Helene: I always had trouble keeping the sewing machine needle in the correct position as I tried to get it into the machine. I took a pair of long handled tweezers and wrapped a little adhesive tape around the ends of the tweezers. I am able to grip the needle with them and the adhesive tape keeps the needle from turning. The long handles allow me to easily reach the needle holder and insert the needle. I hold the needle in place until I have tightened the screw enough to grip the needle. I finish by tightening the screw securely with the screw driver that came with my machine.
From Bonnie: When making cases for eyeglasses, iPods, and cell phones, use a micro-fiber material for the lining. It makes it easy to wipe off fingerprints as you are taking them in or out of their cases.
From Barbara: When looking at Embroidery Library, I always make sure that I use the wish list. Then, when the 'Wishful Thinking' specials come around, I already have the designs and packs I want to purchase in my wish list, and I can get them at half price.
From Joy: To protect my embroidery hoops from overspray when using spray adhesive I use the large plastic trays that lunch meat is packaged in. Wash them well and then cut out the center to the size needed and hold it over the hoop when spraying the stabilizer. Then place your item onto the stabilizer to embroider.
From Virginia: If I have a template that I find I am using many times (like a bottle bib) I print it on card stock, cut it out and am able to use it again and again.
From Patricia: Purchase plastic transparent sheets at an office supply store. Print your designs out on them and you will have a perfect printout to use for lining up designs on your fabric. They're clear so you can see exactly how the design will look on your project.
From Nancy: Every year for my birthday and Christmas my kids and husband ask "what do you want?" I never know what to tell them, until today. I reviewed some of the previous Stitcher's Tips and came up with a list of items that I would love to have for my sewing room. Some were easy things that could be made at home and other things have to be bought. The wonderful part is that I am sure to get what I can really use this year!
From Ronny: I have a small lazy susan next to my machine. As I work, I put what I'm using on it. Then all I have to do is turn the table when I need something!
From Christine: I have started making an extra item each time I do an embroidery (in the hoop designs work well). Everyone has left over fabric - next time you make a small embroidery project, think about making an extra one. When you have several items, donate to the local homeless shelter, nursing home, or daycare. It will put a smile on someone's face and yours. You will have used up some of your scraps and brightened someone else's day.
From Shirlene: For you craft fair people, if you use your test stitch outs for your display of different items that you can stitch - you can get more "special orders" when you attach them together with a large ring and a chain adhered to your booth or table.
From Connie: When using spray adhesive, put a first aid finger cot ($1.36 for a package of 36 next to the band-aids) on the fingers holding the item you are spraying to save your manicure/nails.
From Suzanne: I keep a Color Wheel by my sewing machine. If I want to change colors in an embroidery project, it will help me choose new colors.
From Therese: I often use a double tipped fabric marker when embroidering. One tip is air erase, the other tip is water erase. It seems I was constantly uncapping the wrong tip. To save myself this frustration, I used a permanent marker to color the cap I use the most often. Now, I just glance at the cap to see which tip I want to use.
From Shirlene: I use a great tool called "Seam Ripper Clipper" for cutting all those little jump stitches and loose ends from my embroidery. It is angled for ripping the seam without ripping the fabric, when used for a seam ripper. It has a spring action with is design to help reduce hand fatigue, which I need more and more as the years slip away.
From Chrystal:  Now that I starch before stitching a t-shirt, I decided to spray my applique pieces. I am now happy with how crisp and clean the applique looks. It's amazing that a little stiffener can make a design look so much better.
From Nancy K.:  I recently made several kitchen towels and bathroom hand towels for my daughter's new home. She asked that I center the design on half of the towel instead of the entire towel, that way she can just fold the towel in half and flip it over the towel bar and the pretty embroidery still shows. If the embroidery is on the center of the towel then you need to fold the towel in thirds before you hang it so that the pretty embroidery shows. I now do almost all my towels this way. I find that the towels actually get hung back up rather than 'grace' the floor, counter, chair, edge of the tub, etc.
From Eileen:  Since I don't like using spray adhesive in my home, I spray it outside. To keep the "sticky" off my fingers, I have found using a thin plastic food service glove on the hand that holds the piece to be sprayed works great. One can let the adhesive dry and reuse the glove or just toss the glove.
From Ruth C.:  I keep a small paring knife, which I purchased at the dollar store, with my scissors. When I have to cut stabilizer, I fold the stabilizer and use the knife to cut it. It saves my scissors for material and gives a straight, even cut to the stabilizer.
From Beverly:  When making small lace items such as the earrings, I paint several layers of decoupage medium (mod podge) over the lace, allowing drying time between the layers. This gives your lace a whole new look.
From Nancy K.:  I have purchased (home improvement stores carry these) two of the extra small plastic table (just a bit larger than a TV tray). My husband cut a sheet of plywood the same size as the table top and attached it to the top of the table. I then created a pad to fit the table top and a fitted cover (much like a sheet) from some bright fabric and use this as a small ironing board. On the other one, my husband glued some of the rubber shelf gripper to the top and I put a cutting mat on this table. Then I set one to my left and one to my right as I am quilting -- sure saves me from jumping between the cutting board, the ironing board, and the sewing machine!
From Sandra:  I bought a white tablecloth at a thrift shop and cut it into 8.5" x 11" size, punched it with my three hole punch, and use it for test sewing. When done I put it into a binder. They could also slide into page protectors, then put into a binder.
From Terry:  To keep small squares of Velcro in place and keep loops from catching, position Velcro and place a piece of scotch "magic" tape over it.
From Judy:  I copy my purchased designs and attach any suggested projects that go along with it. It helps me to make decisions of how to use the designs.
From Nancy K.:  Stitching a name on a hood of a sweatshirt? I stitch names on hoods of many sweatshirts, my daughters, my daughter's friends, etc. Here is my Quick 'N Easy tip: Hoop sticky stabilizer -- 'stick' the hood to the sticky then top with a layer of water-soluble stabilizer. If the seam on the center of the hood is thick, I rub a drop or two of Sewers Aid in the inside seam where I will be stitching and rub a bit on my needle as well and add an extra scrap or two of water soluble stabilizer in the seam area only. Set your machine to the slowest number of stitches per minute if you can and stitch away. Oh, and remember, the top of the letters should be at the finished edge of the hood! Hope this helps!
From Ruth C.:  I recently made up a Quilted Tote Bag and to create a unique design, I used one of the trapunto designs in the center block. I used variegated threads and the results were wonderful.
From Bibi:  I've always had trouble with the needle threaders that come with machines. Instead, I just use my tried-and-true method of needle threading: Wet the needle instead of the thread and you'll find your thread goes through the needle very easily.
From Nancy:  When I download a design and save it, I include the hoop size on the name. Then when I am at the machine and choose a design from the memory stick, I know what size hoop to use.
From Kris:  When I test a design and I like the way it turns out, I will sometimes save the design and use it as a patch. I will use Heavy Duty Wonder Under and cut around the design and make a patch, then iron it on the item. You can use this technique for jeans if you do not want to tear the leg open. It should not be a fancy design with lots of cuts and openings.
From Nancy K.:  I LOVE to embellish my embroidery with hot-fix crystals! I have found that if I slip a sheet of non-stick tin foil under the layer I am embellishing, I don't have problems with the layers sticking together. Also take a scrap of the tin foil and turn up the edges to make a small 'tray.' You can put the crystals you are working with in this little 'tray' and they won't bounce all over your work surface when tapping them out of the bag. Also, they won't leave a glue mess on your work surface!
From Kris:  I often save my test designs and when they turn out good, I donate them to our church quilting group to be used in baby blankets that they make for the needy.
From Peggy:  I asked the fabric store for old pattern books. There is valuable info in the back such as size and measuring info. I also like to browse them for ideas.
From Ruth C.:  I have learned that by using a skirt hanger and a plastic table cloth with a felt type backing, that I can have a quilt display board that can be used anywhere. I purchased the hanger and the table cloth from the Dollar store and attached the table cloth to the hanger (felt side out). Then, I simply hung it to the top of my door. Bonus you don't need to pin your blocks to the board as they will stick to the felt.
From Cindy:  I take a look at the latest Stitchers' Showcase everyday. And if I like it, I can take advantage of the sale that day. It is also a great place to see new ideas.
From Therese:  I often sew my designs without using the given colors of thread. Here's an easy foolproof way to see if your design will turn out A+. When choosing the thread colors, I put all the threads together in a group before I line them up in the proper order to sew. If any of my colors clash, it is immediately visible, and I replace that color with another one that harmonizes with the rest of the threads. The end product is then a delight to my eyes.
From Marie: I always have a freestanding lace project or something that requires no thread changes sewing out while I am busy sewing or cutting a quilt top. I learned many years ago the value of multi-tasking and use the skill to keep both my sewing machines busy.
From Dexter: When making an applique design, I stitch out the template (dieline) onto the fabric that I am going to cut for the design. Then, I remove and cut on the stitching line! Perfect applique pieces every time.
From Joyce: I always keep a large strip of wax paper folded to about a 6" x 6" square on the end of my "ever standing ironing board" in my sewing room. When my iron refuses to glide smoothly, I just simply run the iron back and forth a couple times over the wax paper. When the paper starts to loose it's wax, I simply unfold and refold to another area. The wax paper lasts a long time.
From Therese: I don't always stay in the same room when I'm embroidering. As a consequence of this, I have bobbins with little amounts of thread left on them. I don't want the thread to run out while I'm not there, so I change the bobbin early. I store these in a small tub. When I have quite a few collected, I have a BOBBIN DAY when I sew many small designs onto a large hoop. I keep sewing designs until many or most of the bobbins are used up. I then store these felt (or any other fabric) pages. When I need a quick gift, I cut the small designs out of the felt into round or ovals or squares, and use them to make cards.
From Nancy: My husband and I own a lawn maintenance company - so you can imagine his clothes at the end of a day. He somehow manages to get holes in everything (pants, shirts, etc.). To save his clothes, I find a design large enough to cover the hole. Most of the times, it is a bug design - bugs look GREAT on the finished item.
From Christine: I do quite a bit of heirloom sewing and work with small pieces of lace and fabric. It is difficult at times to keep the pieces straight, and feeding the pieces with your fingers can be unsafe. So I use wooden kabob sticks to feed the fabric or lace. And if the needle accidentally hits the stick, the stick will break, not the needle - and your fingers are safe!
From Jacy: I embroider on artist's canvas and then frame some of my "creations." I pre-shrink the canvas by steaming heavily with a steam iron and then embroider after it is dry. This type of canvas also makes great, and firm, bookmarks and coasters.
From Ruth C.: For all the quilters out there who are looking for a way to keep their rulers and templates secure when cutting, I use Dry Line, a product from Liquid Paper. Buy the one that is yellow and use it on the backs of templates and rulers. It creates a non-skid backing.
From Sharon: As a new member to Embroidery Library, I have purchased several designs. But I found it difficult to remember what designs were purchased without going to the website each time. Now I have a 3-inch binder with my order history, pictures and design information at my fingertips. I absolutely love your project ideas and videos. Your website is the best!
From Sharon: I sew in the dining room and drive a school bus doing three runs a day. To limit the mess and save time when I work on the in-the-hoop projects, I keep a pre-cut interface, fabric and stabilizer in a box near the machine. I cut them all at once and in advance with the rolling cutter and mat. This way when I only have an hour between runs, I am ready to go. I like to have bookmarks and coasters ready to go for gifts anytime.
From Tonya: Need a way to hold hems in place when hemming? Just use a metal binder clip. Turn the hem up and clip, then move the clip as you hem. These clips can be found at Wal-Mart or office supply stores.
From Debbie: Keep a photo journal of projects you've made to give away or keep. It's fun to note who you gave it to, what occasion and when.
From Christine: When embroidering totes and items that are not easily laid flat, I use large hair clips. I roll the item to keep the embroidery area clear and clip the rolled fabric onto the embroidery hoop. I make sure that the clip will clear as the item moves through the embroidery process.
From Lenore: Instead of printing dielines on paper, I purchased a package of vellum sheets from my local craft store. They hold up better than paper, and I keep them in a binder with my embroidery designs.
From Terri: I use my husband's old T-shirts to try out designs I digitize, so I don't ruin the "good" shirts!
   

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