Sewing Gear Filter: I have a number of sewing machines that have nylon or plastic composite gears that have broken. Some of them I can have replaced, some of them are no longer made. I am wondering about DIY bionic sewing machine parts. [more inside]
posted by Tchad on Jul 1, 2009 - 10 answers

CraftyFilter: Help me find a woven or pvc label maker! [more inside]
posted by bunnycakes on Jun 18, 2009 - 1 answer

In this picture, what particular kind of sewing? knotting? weaving? technique is being used? It looks super difficult, and I want to try. Help me, MeFi! [more inside]
posted by Xere on Jun 4, 2009 - 9 answers

One of the two straps on my backpack is literally (no, really, literally) hanging on by a thread. The strap itself, where it's detaching from the bottom of the bag, is very frayed. How can I reattach the strap to the backpack? Specs inside. [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie on May 18, 2009 - 11 answers

I have a Lovesac (circa 2003) with a microsuede cover in the 'Ton-O-Love' size (now called MovieSac) that has a broken zipper. I've been to three alterations places trying to get the thing fixed with no help. Finally, I found someone who will replace it if I can find the zipper (she was unable to). It's 140" long and the color is white/gray. Is this something I can purchase online? I'd like to find one that won't break again. [more inside]
posted by shew on May 6, 2009 - 8 answers

I'm looking for a conversion chart that converts VA and Trebla/Duchess thread to one of the major brands (DMC or Anchor). A lot of googling hasn't turned one up - any leads? [more inside]
posted by mippy on Apr 16, 2009 - 2 answers

I have become fascinated with cable lacing in lieu of zip-ties. I want to do it in a plenum ceiling, but I read that's a no-no... [more inside]
posted by ostranenie on Apr 15, 2009 - 9 answers

Sewing-filter. I need to replace the fly-screens in a canvas tent. Hints/Tips? [more inside]
posted by bystander on Apr 14, 2009 - 5 answers

My sewing machine is on its last legs. What should I look for in a new one? [more inside]
posted by tomatofruit on Mar 24, 2009 - 7 answers

I've been doing some cross-stitch after a break, and have been enjoying it. Where can I find some cool, non-chintzy designs? Especially if something other than cards or big projects. Recommendations for pattern software good too! [more inside]
posted by mippy on Mar 13, 2009 - 13 answers

I can't figure out how the bobbin works on this sewing machine. It's a Kenmore model 148.19370. This is a picture of the important parts. [more inside]
posted by gregr on Mar 2, 2009 - 7 answers

Looking for a sewing pattern for yoga pants. [more inside]
posted by gomichild on Feb 8, 2009 - 5 answers

I can't get the hang of inserting a triangular gore (godet?) into a slit in the fabric. All the online instructions I've found gloss over the really tricky bits (the point, and finishing the seams afterward.) Can anyone point me to the broken-down-for-complete-newbies instructions? I will be sewing by hand and need to use a historical seam finish. [more inside]
posted by oblique red on Jan 23, 2009 - 4 answers

I fell in love with some fabric yesterday but it's a nubby thermal knit (like for long-johns). I don't sew with a sewing machine but have done a lot of hand-sewing. Do you have project ideas for me, using this potentially hard-to-work-with material? [more inside]
posted by faunafrailty on Jan 19, 2009 - 16 answers

What tools should I bring to my first sewing class? [more inside]
posted by ginagina on Jan 17, 2009 - 7 answers

What is this? It's to a Domestic Sewing Machine, definitely an older machine, pictures inside. [more inside]
posted by MMALR on Jan 3, 2009 - 6 answers

Can you recommend a seamstress or tailor in San Francisco? I need to replace the lining in my favorite vintage winter coat. [more inside]
posted by gingerbeer on Dec 19, 2008 - 5 answers

My mother-in-law loves to sew and knit, but fibromyalgia is slowing her down. Can you recommend any tools or gadgets that might help her? [more inside]
posted by palmcorder_yajna on Dec 9, 2008 - 17 answers

Please help me find another sewing-kit-in-a-pen like the one I bought at Brookstone in the 1990s. [more inside]
posted by ScarletPumpernickel on Nov 17, 2008 - 4 answers

Where do machine embroidery people hang out? I'm going cross-eyed trying to find the source of a clipart Conestoga wagon embroidered on an award bandana our club uses. [more inside]
posted by cairnish on Nov 9, 2008 - 3 answers

"Gift" of a sewing machine upgrade - do I want it? [more inside]
posted by GardenGal on Oct 23, 2008 - 16 answers

I need to make a dust-cover for a plotter (dimensions: 36" x 11" x 10"). I would like it to be: cheap, easy, functional. I have no sewing experience, but can follow directions. I am also open to other suggestions. More detailed information and questions follow. [more inside]
posted by jjjjjjjijjjjjjj on Oct 11, 2008 - 13 answers

I am making a toddler-blanket for Christmas, but I've managed to buy fabric that I don't know how to work with. I know, smart, right? [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven on Oct 9, 2008 - 7 answers

DenimFilter: Help me patch the hole over the knee in my trendy designer jeans. [more inside]
posted by nayten on Oct 7, 2008 - 13 answers

Please recommend a good place to have a sewing machine serviced in San Francisco. [more inside]
posted by Quietgal on Oct 1, 2008 - 1 answer

I've volunteered to help teach 10-12 year olds how to sew. We have limited supplies (only three machines for 15+ students), so I was wondering what suggestions you had for: a) teaching the very basics to youngsters in a safe and fun way (not too frustrating and not too bloody) b) working with limited resources [more inside]
posted by chara on Sep 10, 2008 - 6 answers

Sewing baby clothes- I have a friend's shower coming up, and I'd like to make something fabulous for an infant baby girl. Patterns you've made, pictures of clothes you love, general info on good and bad baby clothes, fabrics, fasteners, &c. [more inside]
posted by oneirodynia on Sep 9, 2008 - 17 answers

I'm looking for a project management/social networking site for fabric craftspeople, artisans and hobbyists (can include sewing, weaving, whatever) on the MyFolia model. In other words someplace on line where I can organize my projects and connect with other craftspeople. The forums just aren't working for me-- too much chat, not enough organizing.
posted by nax on Aug 31, 2008 - 6 answers

Make me a Master Tailor: I know how to plug in a sewing machine and use a cloth ruler. Assuming nothing more, where do I begin... [more inside]
posted by Hollowman on Aug 18, 2008 - 11 answers

Heavy duty sewing machines? What do I need? [more inside]
posted by SpecialK on Jul 31, 2008 - 12 answers

Please help me make a pattern from my all-time best-fitting slacks--which no longer fit me. [more inside]
posted by sevenstars on Jun 16, 2008 - 2 answers

Can anyone recommend a good home serger? A few desired features: coverstitch, rolled hem, 4 thread. Thanks!
posted by pantufla on Jun 13, 2008 - 3 answers

Are there any trendy, fashion-forward fabric and sewing-pattern shops online? [more inside]
posted by suimin on May 31, 2008 - 16 answers

Where can I learn the necessary skills to do clothing alterations professionally? I am a fairly skilled sewer and I'm smart enough to figure out how to do basic stuff (changing hems, replacing zippers, etc.); all I need is someone or something to show me how to do the more complicated alterations. I think I could enjoy that line of work. However, try as I might, I can't seem to find a resource to teach me these things (and I already checked the local university and technical college).
posted by nataliedanger on May 15, 2008 - 10 answers

Help me find an excellent sewing box. [more inside]
posted by exceptinsects on May 8, 2008 - 7 answers

ComputerEmbroideryFilter: Can you recommend some small-time (<=$300 range) for a home hobbyist to embroider shirts and ball caps and whatnot? [more inside]
posted by ostranenie on May 8, 2008 - 1 answer

I need to know if there is a particular word for this kind of brocade. I think it's a brocade. [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven on Mar 12, 2008 - 7 answers

Has anyone else ever encountered jeans with one "misaligned" leg (i.e., the seams seem to twist around)? What's this all about? [more inside]
posted by anonymous78 on Mar 9, 2008 - 17 answers

Please help me appliqué with some difficult fabrics to work with! [more inside]
posted by infinityjinx on Feb 17, 2008 - 5 answers

Beginner's sewing: Please guide me to the most simple, step by step instructions on how to sew simple garments from simple patterns with a sewing machine.
posted by mistsandrain on Jan 26, 2008 - 16 answers

I think I need a seamstress or seamster, but I am not sure how to find one. [more inside]
posted by waywardgirl on Jan 17, 2008 - 7 answers

So my loving seamstress mother is making some fancy something out of velvet. She's ironing part of it out, having just finished off the final hemming stages annnnnnnd... she slips, some of the velvet isn't protected by a velvetboard anymore and touches the iron directly for a couple of seconds.... [more inside]
posted by ThomThomThomThom on Dec 23, 2007 - 6 answers

I'm looking for a magazine from the early 70's that was geared towards natural hippy lifestyles, homesteading, composting, crafts, self-sustainability and organic gardening. Does this ring a bell with anyone and can you help me find some back copies?
posted by watercarrier on Dec 10, 2007 - 24 answers

I have a huge head and need a winter hat. [more inside]
posted by mecran01 on Dec 2, 2007 - 24 answers

My mom has generously offered to make me some maternity tops. Unfortunately, we can't find any patterns. Help! [more inside]
posted by christinetheslp on Oct 27, 2007 - 7 answers

Where can I get a number of appliqued kites made? [more inside]
posted by Gungho on Oct 23, 2007 - 2 answers

Sewing and Internet Tutorials: Find me a *really good* *idiot-proof* internet tutorial on how to sew a button onto a suit jacket such that it will: A) Not fall off for a long long time, B) Look professional and all that, and C) Have some (small) length of somehow robust thread between the jacket and the button, like the other buttons. [more inside]
posted by sdis on Oct 19, 2007 - 9 answers

Sewingfilter: Please show me how to design a stuffed animal for my young niece. She wants a doggie doll, but I've never done anything with a snout before. [more inside]
posted by apfel on Oct 2, 2007 - 8 answers

I have a really squeaky printer. I tried WD-40, but the squeakiness comes back. One of my engineering friends suggested that I needed something similar to sewing machine oil, but perhaps a little thicker, since the gears are plastic. Any ideas on what kind of lubricant I should get? And where I could get it? Aside from the squeakiness, this REALLY is a good printer (Canon MP130), and I really don't want to get another one.
posted by ssnickerer on Sep 27, 2007 - 14 answers

I'm looking for a program that will help me tech edit sewing patterns. Specifically, I want to be able to check that the pattern calls for the correct amount of fabric. This involves putting flat shapes together and seeing how big they are when they're combined. (It's all very SAT, with a touch of Tetris.) [more inside]
posted by The corpse in the library on Sep 24, 2007 - 3 answers