Janome Sewing Machine!

Janome sewing machines are known for high quality and durability. They are also one of the most innovative sewing machine companies. The company is credited for many firsts and the ease of using these machines in unmatched. Janome sewing machines are important fixtures in many homes and businesses.

The Janome sewing machine company is based in Japan, but has American counterparts. But, the company actually began in 1867 when two men, William Barker and Andrew J Clark began a company that made the " New England Single Thread Hand Sewing Machine" in Orange, Massachusetts. They had much success with this machine and with their "Home Shuffle" machine for over 20 years. In 1960, the company was purchased and moved to Japan by the Janome Sewing Machine Company. The company got its name when it created the round 15 class metal bobbin system instead of the traditional long shuttle type. It was thought that this round shape made it look a lot like a snake's eye. The word Janome translates to "the eye of the snake". The company expanded and developed many machines over the years. They have been leading the sewing manufacturing field worldwide for years.

In fact, in 1970's, Janome sewing machines introduced the first programmable, computerized sewing machine available. The newer versions of these machines are renowned for their precision and the ease of use they provide.

If you are in the market for a Janome sewing machine, whether it is the Janome 6500 sewing machine or an antique version of these machines, you will find that they are made to be high quality and very dependable machines. The precision they offer exceeds the standard in today's market. And, the ease of use in the Janome sewing machine makes it a perfect addition to a home or business.

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.my-sewing-machine-4me.com/

Sewing Machines for the Beginner!

Sewing machines, to a beginner can seem overwhelming. What brand to choose? What features do you need? Knowing a few basic facts about what you plan to use your sewing machine for will help guide your decision. Sewing machines, like most other things, can be learned by using tools that you have on hand. Learning to sew, or knowing what sewing machine you will use, can be as simple as asking a few questions to a friend or family member more knowledgeable, taking a class, or using the Internet as a guide.

There are many brands of sewing machines including Singer, Brother, and Viking. But, brands don't tell you much more than quality and how much you will pay. Learning about the features available to you is much more important. A model by Simplicity offers portability using batteries. It boasts of being a great beginner sewing machine because it offers basic sewing needs along with items like zig zag stitching and adjustable stitch length. Up the line a little is a machine by Singer which can do most at home crafting projects like garment construction, home decor, and crafting. Still there are other sewing machines that are great for quilting. One top of the line model from Singer offers electronic sewing and embroidery because it is capable of hooking up to a computer and using the Internet to access designs. It claims to have cutting edge technology and all the features you could ever want.

Purchasing a sewing machine is a big decision. To the experienced sewer, this is a big investment. Using some basic knowledge will prove invaluable. For instance, if the consumer who wants to purchase a sewing machine knows an advanced sewer, it might be wise to ask they opinion. Experience is always the best source for information. Another source for information would be taking a sewing class. There, you can learn many things that a book just can't teach properly. The hands on experience is great. Other sources for information on sewing machines include the library with its millions of books and also, the Internet. If you are set on learning to sew and use a sewing machine, these can provide lots of information.

Sewing machines are great tools for a sewer beginner or advanced. Sewing machines range in price and quality as well as in features. Finding the right features for you is simply knowing what you will use the sewing machine for. Learning the terms and techniques will help in this decision and getting this information can be as simple as searching for it online, going to the library, or asking someone you may already know that sews. Sewing machines come in all sorts of styles with many state of the art features down to a simple basic form. While all this is important, having a use and love for sewing, and using sewing machines is even more so.


Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.my-sewing-machine-4me.com/

The Singer Sewing Machine Line!

In sewing machines, the Singer Sewing Machine is probably the most well known. The name itself will have any advanced sewer or quilter eager to give comments. Their line of machine range from the most advance electronic machines to the most basic for beginners. The company has many features, accessories, and models to available in most department stores.

Singer sewing machines are high quality and highly praised. The company itself has been in business since 1851 making sewing machines. They were the first to offer machines with the zig zag feature. Also a first in the world by offering an electronic sewing machine. Their newest sewing machines are the world's most advanced home sewing and embroidery machines. They boast that their machines can do anything such as home decor projects, clothing construction, quilting, and embroidery. With so much to offer it is easy to see why the Singer sewing machine has been around for so long.

Singer sewing machines are grouped in 4 basic groups. First there is the basic featured machine. This sewing machine is the most economical, but still offers such features as buttonholing and utility stitches. Another group is the scholastic. Scholastic Singer sewing machines are highly durable and practical. These machines are great to use in a teaching environment. Singer sewing machine's highest quality machines are probably the Quantum line. These machines offer the most new features and electronics but are also great beginning machines as well. Lastly, the multi featured line is what the name suggests in that they offer many features in one machine such as buttonholing, automatic needle threaders, and drop feed. Singer sewing machines has something for everyone.

To find a Singer sewing machine, you needn't look far. They are available in most department stores, in catalogs, and online. Since they are made durably and of high quality, purchasing one second hand is still a good options available to the consumer. The Singer sewing machine has something to offer for every level of sewer or quilter. They have something for computer savvy individuals down to the most technically challenged. When looking for a good machine to last a lifetime, consider Singer sewing machines.

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.my-sewing-machine-4me.com/

Sewing Machines for Children

Children love to make crafts and have fun making things. One way for children to do this is with their very own sewing machine. They can make creative items and learn something new while they do it. Children may not want to work on an adult sewing machine, so it may be a good idea to buy a child size machine. You can find these in many the department stores or toy stores in your area.

Sewing machines for children are safer for new beginners to use. The yare not as fast and they have special parts on them that are made just for children. The needles on toy sewing machines are plastic so that there is no chance that they will get hurt with them. Machines for children usually run on batteries and do not have a lot of power behind them. This means that the child has to go slow and there is no risk of sewing their finger together.

Most of the children sized sewing machines are smaller and move easily. They can be used almost anywhere and you can even take them on the go. This will keep your child busy and quiet when you are on vacation or taking long trips.

Children can create so many different things with their child size sewing machines. They can make anything from doll clothes to their very own clothes. They will have so much fun creating new things for their dolls and for them to wear.

A child and a parent can have so much fun together playing around with a sewing machine. Moms can teach their children new things with their sewing machine and it is a good way for moms and daughters to share special bonding time. Getting young girls started on a sewing machine now will get them ready for the years to come.

You can give young girls the practice and the skills that they will need for the future not only in school with classes like home economics but in life. They will have the knowledge of how to make many different items and they will be able to do patch work at the same time.

Your child will absolutely love to have a sewing machine and create her own products. Once they have all the skills that they need, they will be ready for an adult sewing machine and make even more exciting and beautiful creations.

For more information on sewing machines, please visit: http://www.1-sewing-machines.info.

Sewing Designer Clothes For Kids---The Frugal Way!

I have been sewing clothing for my children for the fifteen years. Yet, I can count on one hand the number of commercial paper patterns I have purchased. What?s my secret? Am I master pattern drafter? Not quite. For fifteen years I have been buying sewing pattern magazines. These magazines provide you with anything up to 60 patterns per issue- from newborn size to plus size ladies. Equipped with my collection of sewing pattern magazines and a current children?s fashion magazine, I can be sure that I will have a pattern for any child?s garment I care to create.

Children?s fashion, like women?s, goes in cycles. What is popular now was also once popular before. The new designer garments you see from kids fashion houses are always just variations on an old theme.

As I first had two boys, then later two girls- I am now enjoying going back through my pattern magazines from fifteen years ago and creating the groovy girls fashions I once longingly gazed at.

Pattern sewing magazines may seem a bit more expensive initially, but when you factor in how many endless possibilities to create they provide, they are a definite boon for the dressmaker on a budget wanting up to the minute fashions. Each magazine is full of glossy designer type pics of the made up garment being modeled by cute kids. You get full pattern sheets and instructions and a page of the patterns in a drawing format. This page of drawings of the patterns is a wonderful way to clearly see the structure of each pattern. It also allows you to imagine how the garment would look made up in your chosen fabric scheme. Sometimes, looking through older mags can be a little off-putting, with the old fashioned fabrics and accessories. These drawings of the patterns allow us to see past that and concentrate on the pattern structure.

The pattern sheets in the sewing magazines can be a little confusing on the first glance. Similar to a road map with varying routes! It is simply a case of picking your pattern, measuring your child, deciding on the correct size. Then, you need to locate which pattern pieces/sizes you need to trace off. I find it easier to first go over the ones I need to trace with a highlighter, remembering to locate all pieces and pattern markings as per the instructions. I use a cheap, light interfacing or tracing paper to trace onto. To keep my traced off patterns organized, I keep all from each individual mag in a ziplock bag, with a note at the front clearly indicating what I have traced off and in what size.

By using the fantastic pattern magazines available you will soon find yourself with an indispensable library of patterns at your fingertips!

Resources for pattern magazines:

www.ottobredesign.com
http://www.glpnews.com/EN/Crafts/Crafts.html For Burda pattern magazines

 Author is Lisa @ Crafty Mamas. A Crafty Mama of 4, and owner of the website http://www.craftymamas.net. Where Crafty Mamas gather to discuss Craft and Mama stuff! WAHM items on sale and custom orders taken. admin@craftymamas.net.

Want To Try Your Hand At Sewing...You'll Need Some Sewing Patterns?

Want To Try Your Hand At Sewing...You'll Need Some Sewing Patterns?

 by: Mike Yeager

These days, sewing patterns are widely available. Almost any department store or even some discount stores carry sewing supplies and some even carry sewing machines. As this hobby grows, the amount of available products grows as well. Once a necessity, sewing has become a hobby among young and old. And, in this age of the world wide web it is now easier then ever to sell hand made articles as well.

First, patterns. People who are new to sewing will need to buy a book or two (or find them in the nearest library) and read up on the lingo and techniques. Once an understanding of how to use the sewing machine (and even how to thread a needle) is learned, finding projects to do is simple. There are many, many books that can provide ideas.

Sewing patterns themselves can be found in craft and fabric stores and also some department stores. Many times they can be found online as well. Every imaginable pattern is available. Or, creating a new idea is an alternative as well. The average person who is new to sewing and sewing machines, will need some practice and tons of patience! There is also a need for basic supplies such as needles, threads of different colors and strengths, fabric, and maybe a how to book to help them along. All of these supplies will be available in craft or fabric stores.

Of course the best way to experience the art of sewing is to do it. Having an experienced teacher is also a big advantage as there is not a book out there that can top experiencing hands on training. There are also many sewing classes available. Try looking into area recreation centers or even local colleges that offer mini courses. Mostly, practice will be a guide as to what can be created, that and of course, imagination. So, pick a pattern that is not too complex, gather the supplies, and try to sew!

Sewing As A Part Time Income

Many of us have contemplated sewing for a source of part-time income. I, myself sold children's designs for a few years, along with doing repairs and alterations. I found it very satisfying, but hardly a dependable source of income.

Part of the reason for this I think, was the ever present threat of someone else doing the same work for less. Many women find it hard to charge a decent amount for their work. A lady in our community constructed an unlined jacket for someone for ten dollars. I was made to look like a very high priced villain. A simple alteration costs more than that.

If you are contemplating sewing for any sort of income, please check around to what others are charging. You may be selling yourself short. You may also be surprised to see the quality of the work involved. I have been surprised to see very shoddy workmanship with some while others work tirelessly for a few paltry dollars. Always make sure all your threads are neatly tucked under and secured. Perfect your buttonholes, collar points, even hemming can become an art. Make sure the inside of your garments are as well finished as the outside. I was told many years ago that this was the sign of a quality garment.

If you have doubts as to your ability to work with certain fabrics, buy remnants and experiment. Velvets and satins are tricky. Sewing for others during the holiday season or a special occasion (think wedding)can be a nightmare. It is better to turn the job down until you are more confident in your skills and have a good idea of how long it will take you to complete the job. Weddings can be a very emotional time for the bride, her mother and attendants. I sold fabrics to a bride who had absolutely no say in anything. Her mother was running that show. They tried to scrimp by with barely enough fabric to save money. The bride came back weeks later, practically in tears, needing more of the same fabric. She knew her chances were slim to none of me having any more of the fabric. As luck would have it, I did have more, but this is a prime example of how emotions can run high with this sort of a job. Then, they were not happy with the job the seamstress did on the bridesmaids dresses. What did they expect, full dresses, very fitted for twenty-five dollars each. As you can see, it was a fiasco from start to finish.

My point is, don't get caught in this sort of situation. If you can't fill their requirements, don't take the job on. Not all customers realize what they are doing when they ask for something to be done. They don't realize the time it takes, the work involved or the know how required to make a quality product on time. It is your job, as the seamstress, to explain this to the potential customer. Your quality of work is what will set you apart from all the others. The impression you leave with the customer, good or bad, stays with them. Always remember that.

I could go on and on about the pitfalls of sewing for others, this is just a reminder to not underestimate yourself or to let the customer talk you into something you are not sure of. Remember, you are in the drivers seat.

Mary Wilkins is the mother of three grown children and six perfect grandchildren. She is also the owner/editor of http://sew-whats-new.com