Tutorials now all in one place!!!

  PLANO ASG MEMBERS SHARE THEIR TALENT !!!
We have so many talented members that have shared their expertise both on our YouTube channel as well as with pdf handouts.

We will be adding more of these tutorials so bookmark the tutorial page on our website it is here:  http://www.planoasgsews.org/tutorials/

Do you have a specific tutorial or how to request? … Read the rest

Fabric knowledge : Twills

What I learned today – contributed by Sheryl Belson 

There are many things I love about being a part of the American Sewing Guild.  I was reminded of one of them just today.  In the Sewing With a Plan meeting we focused on incorporating more denim into our wardrobe.  When it was my turn to show my project idea I told the group that I was having a horrible time trying to get the fabric on grain. … Read the rest

If you think there is something wrong with your machine…..

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You are probably right!  You just have to find the right repair person.

I have been very frustrated with my Viking Diamond Royale in recent months.  It made terrible noise when I sewed on anything (even when embroidering) and shredded my thread.  A machine that expensive shouldn’t act that way. New needles, new thread, different stitch – nothing mattered, it still made that noise. Read the rest

Preparing to Sew – What you need to know

images of bolts of fabric

It is January a new year, I am sure you have lots of sewing projects planned for 2016.  Before you sew here are a few tips of preparation.

When shopping and you fall in love with a fabric but you are not exactly sure what you will create.  Here is a general guideline that several of our members use when buying fabric for misses sizing (especially for coordinates) :   3 yards for 1 garment; 5 yards for 2 garments  and 7 yards for 3 garments.… Read the rest

Seam Finishes without a Serger – Hands on Techniques on Saturday class

Welcome to the Plano ASG Techniques on Saturday !  Build on and improve your sewing techniques with Jami.  This month is a bring your sewing machine class to learn many different ways to “finish” your seams.  These techniques are applicable to any type of sewing:  fashion, home decor and accessories.
SATURDAY May 23rd   Seam finishes without a serger

This neighborhood group format is a hands on class.  

Read the rest

Pressing Matters

pressing rectangleThe one habit that can make or break the success of your creations is the proper pressing technique.

To begin with there is a difference in ironing and pressing.  When you iron a garment, you are smoothing out wrinkles with a gliding motion.  Pressing, on the other hand is lifting the iron up and down with the goal to meld the thread into the fabric, open the seams or shape the seam or other portions of the item into a curved shape.  … Read the rest

Organization – Part Two – Patterns

This post collects some advise from our members on how they manage both patterns.   Projects will be the topic of the next organizational post.

Patterns/Designs/Paper/Electronic  

Even if you only started sewing, I am sure you have collected many paper patterns, pattern pdfs, patterns for your quilting and/or embroidery software.  And if you haven’t – you soon will!… Read the rest

It’s A Sewing Party!!!

Mark your calendars! November 8, 2014 is a first of its kind sewing and crafting educational event. If you love learning online The Sewing Party is the place for you. For one day sewing and crafting classes will be taught by leading bloggers and DIY educational experts.

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Attendees will have the opportunity to attend over 30 classes, and will be able to access the classes 90 days after the event.… Read the rest

Tips for Buying Fabric Online

I admit, I fear purchasing fabric on line. I’m one of those touchy feely types. I like to look at fabric up close and personal. Feel it against my skin. Lay it across my arm it to see how it drapes. When one ventures to buy fabric online … you don’t get any of those experiences.… Read the rest

Using Photoshop or Gimp to visualize fabric and patterns

Markita sent me this cool tutorial on how to use Photoshop or Gimp (free alternative to Photoshop) to visualize fabric and patterns. It involves a bit of technology but it gives you a good idea of what your outfit will look like. You can even use your personal croquis to really dress yourself virtually!… Read the rest