OK, I'm going to do it. I am now addicted to it.

[punkin]

I actually went to a class on Friday to be introduced to my new machine. It was very basic more geared to the ladies who were there as well. I am looking forward to the next class, it deals with the electronics.

I am thinking about turning my Dining room into a sewing center. I have a million things I would like to get done. Not enough time in the day.

I also find it very relaxing.

Tanks, you must have one of those like my friend does. She took many classes also. Her machine does embroidery and you can download patterns. She has made several lap quilts, book covers and totes in no time flat. I think it even washed the dishes once.

 

[punkin]

Congrats to all of you starting new projects and developing new skills. I love sewing and have sewn for years. Start with the simple projects and then more challenging ones. I would be glad to help if you have questions. Enjoy!!

Thanks, ldburton. I will probably have many questions, so you may regret that.

My machine came with an instructional DVD. That will come in handy for "sewing dummies" like me.

 

[TanksHill]

Punkin, thats funny. I wish it would wash the dishes. My dishwasher is broke righ now. It is an amazing machine.

 

[lorihadams]

What is everyone's take on buying from Walmart or Joann's versus a quilt shop or dealer? I have a few hundred dollars to spend and a local quilt shop told me that they had a Brother Pacesetter 3700 for $399 and I was wondering if this would be a good deal? I quilt and do some basic sewing and my mom has an embroidery machine so I don't have any need for a machine with it.

I've never used a brother, I had a singer from walmart and I am over it...it was just a basic cheapy machine and I have had so many problems with the bobbin tension and when I took it to get serviced they told me it was missing a spring. I don't want to go with Singer anymore. Any brother users out there?

Lori

 

[punkin]

I finally got the chance to sit down and watch the instructional DVD that came with the machine. I set my machine up and popped the DVD into the computer so I could do it as I watched. That was very helpful.

The only problem I had was trying to get the bobbin (that came with the machine) out of the case. Took about 10 minutes. I know I had the latch pulled all the way back. I suppose it was just stubborn.

I have already stitched the sides of 4 of the receiving blankets I cut for towels. It really was easy. I'm practicing on those before I start the BBQ napkins.

This is something that I would not have done on my own. I was inspired by all the posts about what you guys were making.
So, here is a big ole' thanks for all of you.

Lori,
The machine I bought is a Brother from Walmart for about $70. Very easy to set up and I was sewing right away. But, I have been working with it for only 1/2 hour so far.

eta: word

 

[TanksHill]

My new machine is a Brother. Mo old machine was a Singer I had for 15 years. It worked fine for a really long time. I don't have enough experience to compare the two. maybe someone here has had a brother for a longer period of time.

Maybe talk to the people at the regular stores and get there take on the pacesetter machine. Do some online pricing. Does the quilt shop offer any benefits, like classes or free service on their machine? Tht could make your decision easier.

 

[prairiegirl]

Another great project for beginners is to make a pillow case. They make super gifts and you can use fabrics that compliment the recipients hobbies, sports teams, etc.

I like to give them as gifts. Everyone seems to like them. I'm hoping to get to Joanns for some flannel. I figure it's about time for the flannel to go on sale and I'll have it for Christmas gifts this coming year.

 

[lorihadams]

Yeah Tanks, she said that they would throw in a class and one yr service contract. She said that it came with a couple of different feet too...I do a lot of in-line quilting so I really have to have a walking foot. I would probably use my mom's Bernina for any free motion or embroidery.

I guess I'm just having a hard time justifying spending the money instead of saving it for an emergency. I'm giving myself a guilt trip!

 

[CityChook]

Congratulations on your venture into sewing.

My mother taught me to sew when I was in grade school. Every time I finish a project here at home, I call and thank her. It's a wonderful skill to have. My husband watches the machine and says it's like voodoo. Silly man.

So many things around your home can be stitched using just a basic straight stitch. Clothes are a little more complicated, but only a little, and the patterns are so good these days with good illustrations and directions.

Best of luck and enjoy yourself! You'll be so proud when you get compliments on your work!!

 

[FarmerChick]

punkin
receiving blankets? 4 of them. I hope you have a baby shower for someone happening soon!! LOL

then you will tackle napkins.

WELL you just inspired me to buy some napkins. I want to get more alway from paper towels and napkins and all that so I will be hitting the dollar store and buy linen napkins. Heck it is only a wash and I do that all the time..LOL


cool

after the napkins what's next?

you go girl!!!