Machine Embroidery-Simple Machine Applique

Simple Machine Applique Most machines nowadays have buil-int, programmed stitches. Use these to full effect with lustrous embroidery threads and a few satin ribbons to enhance any project.

instructions   To applique a ribbon or braid: Stabilise the fabric by placing either Calico or Stitch ‘n’ Tear underneath. Set the machine to zig-zag or choose from other built-in stitches. Adjust the stitch size to desired length and width. Lay a length of ribbon or braid along the fabric. Fig 1 Lower the pressure foot over the far end of the ribbon (either centrally or over one edge). Stitch through all layers to hold the ribbon in place. Fig 2 Try a variety of different coloured ribbons and stitches to create colourful effects. u get many more from here...

Machine Embroidery-Cording

Cording Using even the most basic sewing machine, you can achieve interesting surface effects. This looks like a fine thread laid on the surface of your fabric ideal for outlining or fine lettering.

instructions   Fig 1 Tighten the top thread tension, thus pulling the bobbin thread through the fabric, thus showing both threads on the top surface of the fabric.  Fig 2 Set the stitch length to the minimum so that the top thread is completely covered by the bottom thread when stitching thus making the appearance of a cord lying on the surface of the fabric. Fig 3 Try working layers of spirals, using tonal shades.  This creates a wonderful texture – ideal for landscape details. Suggestions: Try using thicker top threads such as a Anchor Pearl 12’s – these will automatically tighten the top tension, due to their relative thickness in relation to the gap in between the tension wheels (adjust needle size to suit such as 100 or 110). Try working more over one spot to create raised bobbles in the stitching. Try working with thicker bobbin threads on a looser woven fabric. Try working with a fine, uneven thread on the bobbin to create areas of thick and thin. u get many more from here...

Machine Embroidery-Free Machine Embroidery

Free Machine Embroidery Free machine embroidery is achieved by dropping the feed dogs and fitting an appropriate foot (darning/free machine embroidery) to the machine (see your sewing machine manual). By dropping the feed dogs the machine loses the ability to move the fabric under the foot, and the stitch length setting is of no consequence. Free machine embroidery involves producing a stitch by simultaneously running the machine and moving the work around. Imagine the work surface to be a piece of paper and the machine needle to be a pencil. Instead of moving the pencil to draw, move the ‘paper’ allowing the needle to draw on the fabric surface. The foot leaves a gap between the plate and the foot through which the work can move easily. The length of the stitch is determined by how quickly, or slowly, the work is moved, combined with how fast the machine is run. Running the machine quickly and moving the work slowly results in small stitches. Running the machine slowly and moving the work quickly results in longer stitches. The direction in which the stitches run can also give texture to a piece of work.   u get many more from here...

Machine Embroidery-Machine Cording

Machine Cording Once you have completed your project, you may want to make some fastening cords or ties. Here is a simple way to create your own cords, using your sewing machine.

instructions   Gather a selection of fine knitting yarn, cord, crochet cotton, etc. Cut threads and yarns to desired length. Knot one end and gently twist the lengths together. Fig 1 Set the machine to a wide zig-zag stitch. Thread top and bottom threads with toning shades as both will be visible. Place the knot of the threads behind the lowered presser foot. Start to stitch slowly. Hint You may find that you need to help the threads through at the start, as they may not engage with the feed dogs. u get many more from here...