How to Fix a Broken Zipper

It’s happened to all of us. We’re getting dressed for work or a special event, and we notice that our favorite blazer or dress is missing its zipper. We panic because we know that there is no way we can fix it in time. But before you go out and buy a new outfit, try these tips to fix a broken zipper on clothing.

For Broken Zipper Repair in Indianapolis, Call 317-845-9077 Today!
For Broken Zipper Repair in Indianapolis, Call 317-845-9077 Today!

How to Fix a Broken Zipper

With a little bit of patience, you can easily fix a broken zipper. All you need is a needle and thread, and a few minutes of your time.

First, take the garment that needs repair and lay it flat on a surface. If the fabric around the zipper is loose, you may need to sew it up before proceeding.

Next, using a needle and thread, sew the two sides of the zipper together. Start at the top and work your way down. Make sure to tie a knot at the end so that the stitching doesn’t come undone.

Now try to zip up the garment. If it still isn’t working properly, you may need to replace the zipper entirely. This is a relatively easy process, and there are many tutorials online that can walk you through it step-by-step.

With these tips, you can easily fix a broken zipper on clothing. So next time you’re in a pinch, don’t reach for the scissors – reach for a needle and thread instead!

Got a Stuck Zipper? You Can Fix That Too!

If your zipper is stuck, don’t despair! There are a few simple tricks you can try to get it working again. First, try using a pencil to gently push the teeth of the zipper back into place. If that doesn’t work, try using a bit of lubricant on the teeth. You can use a graphite pencil, WD-40, or even lip balm. Just be sure to wipe away any excess before you close the garment.

If those tricks don’t work, you may need to replace the zipper. This is a fairly easy repair that anyone can do at home. Simply remove the old zipper and sew in a new one in its place. With these tips, you’ll be able to fix any stuck zipper – and keep your clothes looking great!

No luck with your zipper repair attempt? Some zippers just get the best of you. No worries. Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional clothing repairs in Indianapolis, Castelton. We provide alterations for clothing, costumes, home decor items, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Related Posts:

How to Get Ink Out of Leather
How to Cover a Clothing Rip With a Patch
How to Reattach Iron-On Letters and Appliques

How to Sew a Backstitch By Hand

As one of the most basic hand-sewing stitches, the backstitch is a great stitch to know when you’re just starting out. It’s also a handy stitch to have in your repertoire for mending and other quick sewing projects. The backstitch gets its name from the fact that you sew backward and forward to create a line of stitches. Although it’s a simple stitch, the backstitch is strong and can be used on both woven and knit fabrics.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to sew a basic backstitch by hand. You’ll need a needle and thread, and fabric scrap to practice on. Once you’ve mastered the technique, you can put your new skills to use on a variety of sewing projects.

Sewing Help Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077
Sewing Help Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077

Hand Sewing a Backstitch Starts With the Right Materials

Important Tip: Use a hand-quilting thread for optimal durability.

What You Need:

▣ Needle
▣ Scissors
▣ Pencil
▣ Ruler
▣ Thread

How to Get Started With Backstitching

The backstitch is one of the strongest and most versatile stitches. It can be used to reinforce a seam, attach two pieces of fabric together, or create a decorative border. The key to making a perfect backstitch is to keep your tension even and your stitches small.

1. Thread your needle with a length of thread that is twice the length of the area you will be stitching. Knot the end of the thread.

2. Insert the needle into the fabric at the point where you want to start stitching. Pull the thread through until the knot is snug against the fabric.

3. Take a small stitch (about 1/4 inch) in the direction you want to stitch. Bring the needle up through the fabric at the end of the stitch.

4. Insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance (about 1/8 inch) from where you brought it up. Be sure to insert the needle on the same side of the fabric as the first stitch.

5. Bring the needle up through the fabric at the end of the second stitch. Repeat steps 3-5 until you reach the end of the stitching area.

6. To secure the thread, take a small stitch in the direction you have been stitching and insert the needle back into the fabric at the beginning of the stitching area. Take another small stitch and insert the needle into the fabric a short distance away. Continue until you have gone all around the stitching area.

7. Knot the thread and trim the excess.

Would you like some professional help with your most valuable sewing projects? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional sewing and alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with curtains, rugs, drapery, upholstery, and of course, clothing!

Related Posts:

Sewing Advice for Knitted Fabrics
How to Knit a Rug With Your Fingers
How to Choose the Right Hand Sewing Needles

How to Cover a Clothing Rip With a Patch

Oh, those pesky rips! Whether your favorite pair of jeans, a sports jacket, or even a school backpack, tearing a hole in your clothing and upholstered fashions is a frustrating scenario. But when this happens to you, just choose to make lemons out of lemonade! Bring out your inner designer and upgrade your jeans or shirt by covering up a rip with an embroidered patch of your liking. Not only will this save your cherished piece from being tossed in the trash, but it will also save you money!

Continue reading to learn how to cover up a clothing tear with a patch, plus an alternative to clothing repair near you.

Clothing Repair Alterations Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077
Clothing Repair Alterations Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077

Patch Sewing 101

The great thing about patch sewing is that even a beginner can do it. In fact, it makes a great activity for you and your children to do together. Keep in mind, embroidered clothing patches aren’t just for repairs, they are also great for adding some flare to any garment or accessory! Apply patches to anything upholstered, including shirts, blouses, sweaters, sweatshirts, blazers, jackets, jeans, trousers, shorts, coats, costumes, uniforms, backpacks, purses, tote bags, suitcases, hats, scarves, and much more!

Selecting a Patch

When it comes to choosing a clothing patch, you will find a vast selection of options. Select one that represents your style, but also matches the garment you plan to repair. From rainbows and peace signs to sunsets, surfboards, flowers, animals, stars, sports logos, and more, you will surely find a clothing patch that meets these needs and speaks to your character.

Patch Application

As for application, you will need to decide between sewing and ironing. Some patches are designed to be ironed on, while others are designed to be sewn on by hand. Both techniques work well, even if you are a beginner.

If you plan to purchase an iron-on patch, be sure you have access to both an iron and ironing board. If you don’t have an ironing board, you can use a heavy-duty, folded towel. Most people prefer to sew on iron-on patches because they tend to come off in the wash. Iron-on patches come with written instructions, which basically involve pressing the patch onto the surface of the garment with a medium-hot iron. It’s easy!

If you plan to go the sewing route, be sure you have the proper sewing thread, thread color, and needle. You can use a similar color thread or a contrasting color. You will also need sewing pins and a pair of scissors.

To Sew on a Patch

If you prefer a sew-on patch, consider using sewing thread for jeans, embroidery, or hand-quilting because they offer added durability. Polyester and cotton threads will work, but they are weaker and prone to breakage.

To begin, lay your garment flat and clear the surface around the tear. Clean up the fraying around the inner edge of the rip by cutting down the loose exposed threads.

Lay your patch on top of the area you wish to apply it, in this case over the rip, then pin it in place. Try to only use 2 or 3 pins. Once it is pinned, begin preparing your needle and thread. Bonus tip: double up on your thread.

Now begin sewing around the outer perimeter of the patch. Insert the needle fabric-first, pushing upwards into the patch. This way, the knot at the end of your thread is not visible.  If you run out of thread before completing your loop, just restart as usual.

Is the damage to your garment to large or complex to cover with a patch? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional sewing and alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with curtains, rugs, drapery, upholstery, and of course, clothing!

Related Posts:

How to Fix Thread Snags
3 Ways to Control Fraying Fabric
Tips for Sewing Quilted Cotton Clothing

The Importance of Using Quality Thread in a Sewing Machine

If you have been having problems with your sewing machine, the first troubleshooting method is to swap out the needle for a new one. If that doesn’t work, your sewing thread could be the issue. Good quality sewing thread is one of the most important elements of any successful sewing or clothing alteration project.

Continue below to learn more about the importance of using high quality threat in a sewing machine, plus what to do if you cannot seem to get your stitches right.

Sewing Professionals Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077
Sewing Professionals Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077

Quality Thread is Essential for Sewing Machine Work

Just like many other products out there, you cannot sacrifice thread quality without noticing it at some point in time. Sure, you can save a few bucks by opting for that cheaper thread, but your project will suffer certain aesthetic and structural deficiencies. Plus, low quality thread is often incompatible with sewing machine work, as it can lose tension and snap while running through all the tension disks and eye openings within the machine. It can even cause your machine to suffer long-term or irreversible damages, especially to the disks.

So, what makes a good quality sewing machine thread? Well, there are many attributes to look for in a dependable, top-grade thread, and a high price tag is not one of them.

How to Choose a Good Sewing Machine Thread

When shopping around for a sewing machine thread that works well, is compatible with your sewing machine, and will render great results, you want to look for fewer loose fibers and less fraying tendencies. Loosely-wound threads with many stray fibers do not perform well in sewing machines. Choose a thread that is more tightly wound and has few stray fibers. Here is a guide you can take to the store:

Loosely-Wound with Stray Fibers:

► Coats And Clark Dual Duty All-Purpose Thread
► Excell 100% Polyester
► Lucky Strike 100% Cotton Thread
► Talon Superlock 100% Spun Polyester
► Trusew 100% Spun Polyester

Recommended Sewing Machine Thread:

► Coats and Clark 100% Cotton Thread
► Guttermann 100% Polyester Thread
► Mettler Metrosene Plus 100% Polyester
► Mettler’s Silk Finish 100% Mercerized Cotton
► Molnlycke 100% Polyester Thread

Are you still having problems with your sewing project? Can’t seem to get your stitches sewn right? Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for more information about our home décor repair and alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, today!

Related Posts:

How to Fix Thread Snags
How to Tell if Your Thread is Expired
The Pros and Cons to Using Ribbon Yarn
Thread-Bunching Solutions for Sewing Machines

Is Your Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches?

Using a sewing machine to achieve all of your crafting goals is an excellent way to take your projects to the next level. But using a sewing machine can pose all sorts of challenges. One such challenge that you will learn to overcome with time is skipping stitches. You don’t want to compromise your project piece by continuing to use your sewing machine. Instead, continue below to learn why this might happen and how to fix it right away.

Sewing Professional Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077
Sewing Professional Indianapolis Indiana 317-845-9077

Why Sewing Machines Skip Stitches

Before you begin to troubleshoot your sewing machine problem, it helps to review the most common reasons why sewing machines tend to skip stitches. This knowledge will give you a place to launch in terms of diagnosing the underlying issue. Typically, sewing machines will start skipping stitches if the needle is old, you are using an incorrect needle, or your tension settings are wrong. Sewing machines can also skip stitches are due to tension disk, spool, and/or bobbin are not correctly attached or positioned.

Old Needles

If your sewing machine needle is too old, it can lose quality. Around 7 hours of sewing time should be the limit per needle. To follow the general rule of thumb, use a brand new needle for every new project you start. You never want to use a dull or bent needle in a sewing machine.

Wrong Needles

Not only should your sewing needles be fresh, but they should be the right type. Use the correct sewing needle for the particular type of fabric you are working with. For instance, if you are sewing jersey or spandex fabrics, you would need to use a stretch/ball point sewing machine needle. Additionally, be sure the needle is set within the sewing machine. If it is loose, it will skip stitches.

Tension Setting Problems

The tension setting must be just right for optimal sewing machine results. To fix this issue, adjust the tension dial little by little before each test run. It might be necessary to adjust tension for the bobbin as well if you have one in a metal case. Your sewing machine manual can also offer up some troubleshooting advice for tension setting difficulties.

Tension Disk, Spool, and Bobbin

If all else fails, you may need to re-thread the machine entirely and wind the bobbin. First, check that the thread is actually in the tension disc. Then check that the spool is positioned properly. Last, check on the bobbin. It should be in the right place and properly threaded.

Are you having trouble finishing your sewing piece or project? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for Indianapolis Indiana alterations and tailoring services at the most affordable prices around. We can help with home décor, costumes, upholstery, apparel, and more.

Related Posts:

Sewing Machine Tension Balancing Tips for Beginners
4 Ways to Prevent a Sewing Machine From Swallowing Fine Fabric
How to Properly Feed the Dog on Your Sewing Machine

Corduroy Sewing 101

Corduroy is a classic garment fabric that has paved its way through mainstream fashion history. Because it is a sturdy but luxurious material that can be applied universally across the garment board, corduroy always seems to make a comeback. Currently, you can find corduroy apparel in all your favorite clothing stores, from pants and jackets to dresses, skirts, vests, coats, suits, and even accessories like hats and purses.

With so much corduroy going around, you may be tempted to indulge in a little wardrobe upgrade yourself. However, not all corduroy is a perfect fit, and as an important investment, you will want to make sure it stands the test of time. So, it is wise to be prepared to make some minor alterations or periodic repairs to your garment as needed.

Continue reading to learn some top advice on how to sew with corduroy, as well as where to get trusted and affordable tailoring services for corduroy fittings and repairs in Indianapolis.

Corduroy Alterations Indianapolis IN 317-845-9077
Corduroy Alterations Indianapolis IN 317-845-9077

How to Sew With Corduroy

Corduroy is a cotton-based fabric that is sometimes blended with polyester. Due to its textile makeup, corduroy is proven to be a material worthy of several clothing applications. Not only is corduroy fashionable, but it is also durable and incredibly warm. From the catwalk to the arid paths of the Sedona, corduroy will serve you well depending on how you wear it and why you need it.

But when mishaps occur, you may need to sew your corduroy up alter it to better fit you. Use these tips to help you understand how to sew with corduroy:

Cut Straight Along the Ribs

It is important to put a lot of focus on keeping the corduroy ribs (wales) straight when you are cutting them. You want the pattern grain line arrows to be perfectly parallel to the ribs. To ensure better precision, cut corduroy with the ribs side facing up. When you can see the ribs, it is easier to ensure you are cutting parallel along the grain line.

Sew Parallel to the Fabric Wales

In addition to keeping the ribs straight when you cut corduroy, it is equally important to keep the fabric wales straight when you are sewing corduroy. Making the mistake of sewing even slightly off-grain will result in an obvious garment irregularity that will be blatant to even the most untrained eye.

Try Not to Squash the Corduroy

Corduroy has ribs, or fabric wales, which are the valleys on the fabric. Corduroy also has piles, which are the peaks of the fabric. When sewing corduroy, it is important to avoid squishing the raised piles because it can cause permanent damage to the fabric and make it more difficult to attain your alteration objectives. If you are using a sewing machine, you can avoid squishing the piles by lowering the presser foot, lowering the thread tension, or both.

Take Care When Ironing and Laundering

Corduroy is a specialty fabric that requires a separate level of care when it comes to pressing and cleaning. Try not to press too hard when you are ironing corduroy, as it can damage the piles as mentioned before. In fact, it is recommended to steam corduroy if you can. To properly clean corduroy, wash on the delicate cycle and cold water and hang dry. If you must put corduroy in the dryer, tumble dry on low for shorter time as possible.

Are you looking for professional corduroy alterations in Indianapolis? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 four Indianapolis Indiana alterations and tailoring services at the most affordable prices around.

Related Posts:

Helpful Advice for Sewing With Synthetic Leather
Cost Effective Alternatives to Silk Fabric
Tips for Sewing Quilted Cotton Clothing
4 Fabrics You Should Never Machine Wash

Indianapolis Alterations
Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077

Sewing Safety for Beginners

Sewing is an excellent and entertaining hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and genders. However, when you are first starting out, it is important to instill some fundamental safety rules in order to prevent sewing injuries. Things like seam rippers, fabric cutters, scissors, needles, and Rotary cutting equipment can all cause severe injuries and even amputations! So, just as we learn the safe way to handle and use scissors as a child, you will learn these same values in terms of sewing, as well as a few other interesting tips that can save you time, money, or a huge hassle.

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips and tricks for safe sewing if you are just starting out as a beginner, and where you can get help with your sewing projects that leave you stuck.

Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077
Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077

Use Thimbles and Cut-Resistant Gloves

There are several sewing apparatuses that can hurt our fingers and skin, like needles, pins, seam rippers, rotary cutters, and more. Using certain sewing tools can significantly reduce the number of Band-Aids you peel through after a sewing project. Tools like thimbles are classic, yet effective in protecting fingertips from needle points and razor cuts. In fact, thimbles were among the very first sewing tools invented. Modern sewing gear that is effective at protecting fingers and skin are sewing safety gloves. They are relatively inexpensive and the perfect tool for kids and beginner seamstresses.

Fundamental Guidelines for Sewing Safety

Aside from protective tools and apparatuses, there are certain guidelines to follow in order to remain safe while sewing. For example, it is important to never aim a seam ripper at yourself or another person. Always aim the point away from the body and do not place your hands in its way. Also, avoid poking your skin with pins. Although mild in pain, pinpoint cuts can bleed all over your garment without you realizing it, or worse, become infected. 

Mind Your Rotary Cutting Equipment

Rotary cutting equipment is sharp, and can easily slice through, or slice off, a finger or piece of skin. It is important to always SLOW DOWN and take your time when using rotary rulers and cutters. Be sure to line the ruler up and then stop, keeping your fingers and hands out of its path. Also, many styles of rotary blades automatically retract, but many also do not. This means to never expect your rotary blades to automatically retract. Always be sire the blade is covered and locked before placing it down or putting it away.

Furniture Can Get Damaged From Sewing Activities Too

Although fingers and hands are important to protect, so is your furniture! Just like your skin and extremities, furniture can also be damaged by sewing tools and techniques. For example, when cutting fabric, it is always important to lay down a protective barrier on top of the surface you intend to use for a platform. Dining room tables, countertops, and more can be significantly damaged by cutters, seam rippers, and more. This leads to unsightly marks and nicks, as well as costly repairs and replacements. Try using a thick, folding cardboard poster as a liner for tables and countertops. It is thick enough to protect and easy to store.

Would you like some professional help with your clothing and home décor sewing projects you’ve been stuck on for a while? Contact Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 four Indianapolis Indiana alterations and tailoring services at the most affordable prices around.

You Might Also Read:

How to Create a Sewing Kit
How to Label a Sewing Machine for Beginners
How to Sew a Straight Line

Indianapolis Alterations
Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077

What You Need as a Sewing Beginner

When you are just starting out with a new sewing hobby, there is one thing you need to establish first. That is a beginner’s sewing kit. Everything you put in your sewing kit will play a major role in your daily sewing machine projects. Best of all, you can continue to add to your kit as your talent for sewing evolves overtime!

Continue below to learn what you need to put in a basic sewing kit, and a few beginner’s sewing tips that will help you get started on the right zipper foot!

Indianapolis Sewing and Alterations
Indianapolis Sewing and Alterations 317-845-9077

Sewing Kit Options

You have two great options for curating a sewing kit as you start out. The first option is to buy a pre-packaged sewing kit, online or at your local crafts store. Several national department stores with a crafting section will also have a selection of pre-made sewing kits. They will come in a wide array of sizes and skill levels. Choose one that is a full kit, whether for a novice or not, and no matter the size. After all, you need the basic stuff, but it is also okay to have more, because then, you will have the items you need as you get better at sewing.

Your other option is to manually put together a custom sewing kit yourself by choosing the items you need as a beginner sewing hobbyist. Look below for the recommended tool and material list for a beginner’s sewing kit!

Tools and Materials for Your Custom Sewing Kit

Let’s start with basic tools.

⇢ Sewing Kit Box
⇢ Hand Sewing Needles
⇢ Sewing Spools
⇢ Needle Threader
⇢ Pins and Pincushion
⇢ Sewing Tape Measures
⇢ Sewing Gauges
⇢ Fabric Rotary Cutter
⇢ Rotary Mat
⇢ Rotary Rulers
⇢ Seam Ripper
⇢ Sewing Scissors
⇢ Pinking Shears
⇢ Pressing Tools
⇢ Thimble
⇢ Bodkin

Other items to consider as you go:

⇢ Fabrics
⇢ Buttons and Snaps
⇢ Elastics
⇢ Wonder Clips
⇢ Fabric Steamer/Iron
⇢ Fabric Cutting Table
⇢ Clothes Rack
⇢ Printed Project Ideas
⇢ Hardware Bins and Organizers
⇢ Sewing Magazines

Need Some Help With Your Sewing in Indianapolis?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional home décor and clothing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

Indianapolis Alterations
Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077

4 Ways to Prevent a Sewing Machine From Swallowing Fine Fabric

As someone who uses the sewing machine often, you know there is nothing more frustrating than that moment your fabric gets sucked under the needle plate. No matter how easily your sewing project is coasting along as you run your fabric through your machine, this sewing blunder can happen to anyone at any moment in time. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent your sewing machine from destroying your fine fabrics. After all these materials are not cheap; right? So, we must protect them at all costs. Plus, we want our finished pieces to come out perfect!

Rather than researching every single possible way you can prevent sewing machine fabric swallowing, simply continue below to learn the top four methods that are sure to work for you.

Indianapolis Clothing Repair and Alterations
Indianapolis Clothing Repair and Alterations 317-845-9077

Switch to a Finer Needle

When sewing with fine fabrics, one of the best ways to prevent sewing machine swallowing problems is to simply switch to a finer needle. You can find the vast array of needle types and sizes at any local fabric or craft store, as well as online, through various vendors and retailers. Opt for needled labelled 60 or 70 on the pack.

Cover the Needle Plate Hole

Although this might sound like it could impede your sewing project process, using a but a sticky tape to cover the needle plate hole is a great way to quickly stop a sewing machine from swallowing up your fine fabrics. Try to use a very small piece of tape, as small as you can make it while still covering the hole. Then, before you begin stitching, pierce a single hole in the tape with your sewing machine.

Never Start on a Raw Edge

Beginning your sewing work on the raw edge of a piece of fabric is a common novice sewing mistake. What sewing enthusiasts eventually learn is, doing so will cause your sewing machine to suck up your fabric underneath the needle plate. So, in order to prevent this from happening one surefire precaution is to never start sewing on a raw edge. For pleats and darts, start from the inside and work your way towards the edges. For seams, start a little inward from the edge.

Consider Chain Stitching

Another common method to prevent a sewing machine from swallowing up fabrics, especially fine fabrics, is to use the chain stitching approach. Chain stitching is the process of sewing together multiple pieces without stopping in between to lower or raise the presser foot. This technique is often used to speed up the sewing process. For those in a hurry, chain stitching is your go to sewing machine method.

Need Help With Your Sewing and Clothing Modifications?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional clothing alterations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

Indianapolis Alterations
Indianapolis Alterations 317-845-9077

How to Get Your Fabric Ready Before Sewing

Before you ever thread a needle through, it is important to take the proper steps to prepare your fabrics for a sewing project. Continue below to learn everything from confirming the front and backside of your material, to washing, ironing, pinning, cutting, and even identifying the grain.

Indianapolis Sewing and Alterations
Indianapolis Sewing and Alterations 317-845-9077

Fabric Preparation Guide

When you purchase your sewing fabrics and materials at the store, they are not necessarily “sewing ready” in their current condition. To ensure the best possible results of your sewing project, it is important to pre-treat and prepare your fabrics prior to any cutting, pinning, or stitching. On a side note, if you wish to color treat or dye your fabrics, this must be done before you begin stitching as well. Here is a brief rundown on the best ways to prepare fabric for sewing:

Cleaning

At the store, fabrics are not fully-protected on the shelf. So, when you bring them home, they are likely covered in dust, which can contain some very undesirable, microscopic contaminants like dead skin and dust mites. So, your first best-practice for prepping your fabrics is to wash them with a quality liquid detergent, either by hand or on the delicate cycle in your washing machine. Also, be sure to lay them flat and allow them to dry to completion. Do not dry them in the dryer, even on low or air only. The process can still cause visible changes in the quality of the fabric.

Pressing

Once your fabrics are clean and dry, you will want to perfect them by releasing any lines, warps, crinkles, or wrinkles. You can choose from a selection of options. You can press fabrics with a fabric pressing machine; you can iron them by hand; or you can steam them. Either way, pressing out your fabrics will give them an added luster, and make sewing much easier.

Identifying

There are certain things you need to locate or identify before getting started with sewing. After washing, drying, and pressing your fabrics, your next step is to determine which is the front and which is the back. Typically, this is pretty obvious, as backsides are usually faded or have indiscernible patterns. The fabric front is referred to as the right side, which should be the side you plan to have facing outward in your sewing piece. Another important part of this step is to identify the direction of the grain. The grain is important to the way your piece drapes, and ultimately, performs. Warp are lengthwise threads, while weft are crosswise, which run parallel and perpendicular to the selvage.

Cutting and Pinning

At this point, your fabrics are ready to begin the sewing process, but not before a few more steps. Here, you can start measuring and cutting out your fabric pieces or templates. You can also start pinning any appliques or pieces to your fabrics. Be sure to avoid any wrinkles by laying your fabrics flat during this step. Also, be sure to pin pieces together inside the seam allowance to avoid bunching. When cutting, be sure your scissors or shears are as sharp as they can be for fine cuts.

Need Help With Sewing in Indianapolis, Indiana?

Call Yong’s Alterations at 317-845-9077 for professional alteration services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are expert tailors who provide affordable alterations for men, women, children, and home décor. Bring us your sewing projects, costumes, coats, suits, dresses, formal wear, team jerseys, curtains, upholstery, and more! Call 317-845-9077 to request a free estimate for Indianapolis Alterations, today.

Indianapolis Wedding Alterations 317-845-9077
Indianapolis Wedding Alterations 317-845-9077