They have also prevented many a project from falling apart – because as any sewist will tell you, Murphy’s Law tends to work on overdrive in this part of the universe! We are here to share some of the niftiest tricks and tips that will make your sewing a breeze. Warning though – some of these hacks are pretty wacky!
Pool Noodle Pin Cushion
Pool noodles, pool noodles, is there ever an end to the number of things we can use them for? We think not. They can be used to protect cars when parking in one's garage. They can be used as armbands for swimming. And you know what else? They can also be used as pin cushions for your sewing endeavors.
With this super simple hack, you can take a piece of pool noodle, cut it down the middle, and attach it to your dressing table or desk, then use it as a pincushion! Seriously, who needs a proper pincushion when you can just stick a bunch of pins into a purple piece of a pool noodle? It's oddly satisfying!
Never Throw Away Your Quilting Scraps
Exhibit A. One enterprising quilter decided a Christmas present to a mother-in-law requires only the best quilting scraps, but it is clear that this turned out to be a winner of a gift. All those little bits and pieces turned into eyes, a nose, a collar, and ear shadows.
If you are a long-time worker with fabric (or, really, anything that uses small pieces like lumber), you have probably gotten into the habit of keeping a box full of all the extras. Who knows when you might need them to create a picture of a wirehair fox terrier for a gift?
Keep Things Organized With Medicine Bottles
If you're the kind of person who finds himself or herself taking lots of pills for one reason or another, you might be wondering what you can do to stop throwing out all the old bottles. We all have a bunch of these lying around from some ailment or condition. If you're the crafty type, there's a clear solution.
Stock your old pill bottles full of beads, thread, eyelets, needles, and anything else that you want to keep organized. Tape on some quick and easy labels, and you'll be ready to start creating. Even better, you can take pill bottles from friends to reduce waste even further.
Scrunch Up Some T-Shirts
Out of scrunchies? That is not good. Have a couple of old t-shirts lying around that you have been meaning to get rid of? Time to check off two boxes with one task and make your own scrunchies. It is best to have a sewing machine for this job, but it seems to be pretty easy to do, even if you are a beginner without all the proper tools.
There are plenty of tutorials online that you can find, but scrunchies are pretty simple – you do not even need to worry much about proper measurements; just go with the flow.
Create a Footrest
Even if you aren't a sewer – one who sews – you probably have some old clothing lying around that you don't want to wear anymore. Don't just throw it out; repurpose it into something that will give you comfort for years to come. Sew it around a DIY pouf to give guests a break when they stop by your place.
Not only can you use the old fabric for the exterior, but the interior can also be second-hand. Fill it up with socks, hoodies, jeans, and all the other clothes you don't want anymore. It's light, soft, and a great addition to any room.
Make a Party Banner
Pennant banners are an amazing way to add flare to any party or event, but who says these wonderful accessories can only be used on occasion? You can make a DIY fabric pennant banner to decorate your kids’ room and make it look more festive.
You can create a colorful and whimsical fabric pennant banner to hang across the walls by cutting triangle shapes from different patterned fabrics, and then sew or glue them onto a ribbon or twine and hang the banner to add a playful touch to the room. Your kids will feel like there’s a celebration in their room every day!
Easily Fix Unflattering Necklines
Ladies, how many dresses, blouses, and tank tops have you discarded because the neckline looked super unflattering for small cleavage? Too many good clothes have seen early demises. But it no longer has to be that way. Here’s a two-minute hack that doesn’t even need a sewing machine.
Stitch a small vertical seam inside and pull. Voila! A top or dress that looks so much better than the original. It’s incredible how one stitch can transform clothing from drab to fabulous. This top looks much better and gives the cleavage more definition. Plus, this is a hack anyone can pull off. You don’t need to be an expert seamstress.
Use Paper Clips to Organize Bobbins
If you love sewing, chances are you have way more bobbins than you need. You know what that means – organizing disaster. Loose threads. Tangled threads. Bobbins falling off. This hack is so simple you’ll wonder why the idea never occurred to you before. Flatten out a paper clip.
Place the thread through it and finish off by folding up the edges. Has your sewing box ever looked this good? Monica Geller would be proud! What’s more, it’s still easy to slide the thread off whenever needed. Bonus tip: use scotch tape to get rid of hanging or loose threads that could otherwise get tangled up eventually.
Stop Fabric from Furling With Paper Clips
Sewing is therapy for those who swear by it. But sometimes the process can be back-breaking and prick you in frustration. You know what we mean – all those little annoyances like threads rolling away and needles eager to find a haystack. How about fabric that furls while sewing? Few things are as infuriating.
Well, no more we say! Use a paper clip to keep the furling down. That’s it! That’s the hack. No hemming or hawing. No pressing the fabric down until you can no more. What we needed all this time was a paper clip. The best things truly are the most simple.
Use Paper Clips to Sew With Precision
In the right hands, even ordinary paper clips can become nifty sewing tools. This one’s a neat hack for attaching things like ribbons or lace onto fabric. Grab a paper clip, unfold one of its ends, and give it a slight bend. Secure the opposite end with tape just below the pressure foot.
Thread the lace or ribbon through the bent portion of the paper clip, and you're all set to sew! This hack simplifies the process. It’s not only effortless but precise, and what more could one ask for in a sewing project? Sewing is an art but even the best artists could always do with a little help every now and then.
Easily Sew Your Headbands
Headbands are all the rage these days. Sewing them is another story altogether. But the sewing community is nothing but determined, scrappy, and honestly, pure genius. Don’t believe us? Take a look at this video demonstration of an easy hack to make headbands out of scraps. Place the fabric right to right and sew 1cm from the seam.
Flip the fabric. Leave the seam in the center and face right to right (the side without the seam) as seen in the video. Sew at 1 cm seam allowance and you’re done! This technique uses a flat machine without an overlock. Sewing has never been easier.
Use Spools to Store Your Needles
The perennial struggle of finding, storing, and keeping track of needles. It turns out there’s been a secret within thread spools all along, one that could’ve saved us a world of pain. Take your thread spool and open it up as shown in this video. Spools are, in fact, removable.
Why, you ask? To store needles! We feel foolish. The best needle storage solution was under our noses all this time. Imagine all the hours we could’ve spent searching high and low for misplaced needles. It’s baffling why they just didn’t say so on the box but happy sewing days are ahead.
Keep Fabric Down with Pattern Weights
Let’s face it. Sewing takes up a lot of time - too much, in fact. Time is a luxury most of us don’t have. There’s always tons to do around the house and at work. We’re always looking to speed up sewing projects and this hack does just the trick. Use pattern weights to keep the fabric down while sewing.
Instead of the traditional pinning routine, pop these handy weights onto your pattern pieces. They prevent fabric from shifting and completely speed up the cutting process, giving you more room to enjoy the actual sewing. Pattern weights are a game-changer in making sewing more efficient.
Use a Flat Object to Easily Sew Thick Hems
Have you ever had an important sewing project but the sewing machine refuses to stitch through thick fabric? Thick seams are a nightmare. They’re so bulky that a humble sewing machine at home cannot stitch over many layers neatly, which is when the nightmare begins. Thread snapping, stitches skipped, or even needles snapping apart.
This little tip will help make sewing thick hems a breeze. Find something with a flat surface such as a spare button or your machine needle box. Place this under the pressure foot and sew. It’s like magic! You no longer need to take a mallet to the machine to get neat, beautifully stitched hems.
Jazz Up Old T-shirts with Zig Zag Stitch
Sewing skills are heaven-sent when you’re on a budget but still want a fresh wardrobe. A nip and tuck here or a new pattern there is all it takes. But what if you’re short on time? Get some yarn, a straw, and a trusty sewing machine. Cut the straw to size and thread your yarn through it, securing it with tape onto your sewing machine.
Place it neatly under the presser foot, and adjust the stitch length to zigzag. No need to worry about backstitching – simply thread your needle and poke it into the back of your t-shirt. Finish off with tying a knot. You have a brand new, stylish tee shirt. The whole thing is faster than getting a pizza delivered.
Use Tape to Sew Multiple Straight Lines
Sewing numerous straight lines at once is so much harder than it looks! It’s as if the machine has a mind of its own. Your hands and legs can try but the machine isn't having it. Thankfully, there is a solution as shown in this video. Fix double-sided tape to the base of your needle box.
Place it along the seam line of your sewing machine. And there you have it. It’s as simple and straightforward as that, pun intended. Need to change seam size? Simply move the box. Unless you're a pro, sewing can trip you up in the unlikeliest of places. Hacks like these are useful for those of us starting out as jacks of the trade.
Easily Sew With Multiple Threads
Here’s a useful hack for sewing with multiple threads and it involves tape. There’s nothing a little tape and some ingenuity can’t fix. In this case, use masking tape. Scotch or washi tape will work just fine too. Take multiple threads and place them on the sticky side of the tape. Press down firmly.
Trim any excess but make sure to keep the tip small enough to fit inside the needle’s eye. Slide the tape through the needle gently so that all the threads fit in smoothly. Cut off the tape. There you go - sewing made easy, efficient, and achievable yet again.
Use Alcohol to Remove Glue Stains
This one isn’t a sewing hack per se but the kind everyone should know. Getting glue on clothes is a nightmare for anyone. Maybe you’re a bit clumsy and splashed glue on your favorite pants. Maybe your kids’ enthusiasm for a craft project went too far. Dealing with glue almost always involves sticky and painful repercussions.
What does one do that doesn’t involve a hefty cleaning bill? Rubbing alcohol and cotton. Two essential items that almost everyone has at home. Put a few drops of rubbing alcohol on the cotton. Rub it gently over the glue-stained fabric until there are no more grubby bits. You just saved yourself from doing laundry or spending a bomb on dry cleaning.
Never Waste Time Picking Up Needles Again
Where are those pins? You could’ve sworn there was one right here. Pins, pins everywhere but not a single one handy when you actually need it. What’s even worse is picking up each one individually to pin onto a pin cushion until the thing looks like a hedgehog in cloth form. The thought might be nice but who has the time?
When you’re short on both time and patience, magnets come to the rescue! Pins and magnets - like quick-flying moths to a flame. This hack is so simple it’s sheer genius. Plus, there’s something immensely satisfying about metal flying to magnets – probably the effortlessness of it all. Sewing has never been easier.
Make a Jewelry Holder With Household Items
Innovation has always driven human civilization forward. We’ve made assembly lines efficient and sent people to the moon. We’ve developed Artificial Intelligence that’s so intelligent, it could surpass our own. So, why is it that even the best companies can never get a jewelry holder right?
Ask any woman and she will tell you that of the many products that could make her life simple, a lightweight jewelry holder would be it! But a resourceful sewing genius seems to have cracked the code. This jewelry holder is proudly hand-made from an old shirt, a patch, and a few buttons lying around the house. Beautiful, creative, and so useful!
Use a Rubber Band to Expand the Seam Allowance
It’s true that tape fixes most things. Yet there are occasions when one tries to avoid it as much as possible – like when you need to expand seam allowance. If you’ve been avoiding or putting it off because it involves sticky tape on the sewing machine, there’s no need to do that any longer thanks to this easy hack.
You will first need a big kitchen rubber band. Next, slide the band onto your sewing machine. Adjust or measure out the band to whatever suits you best, and you’re good to go. All of the efficiency, none of the stickiness associated with tape.
Place Thread Rolls in Pedicure Separators
The key to a brilliant hack is continually finding new perspectives and ways of looking. Some of the most functional items that can save us a world of anxiety are often nondescript stuff just lying around the house. Like pedicure separators to make sewing more efficient and joyful.
Keep your thread rolls organized while sewing with pedicure separators. Who’s to say these handy tools can’t be repurposed for multiple uses? They can hold thread just as easily as keeping toes separate during a pedicure. Slip thread spools onto the separators’ flexible fingers for a beautifully organized and accessible thread supply while you sew.
Salvage a Damaged Presser Foot with Toothpicks
Do you have toothpicks in your sewing kit? You might consider keeping a few after reading this. Sewing enthusiasts know that it takes very little for a project to devolve into chaos. One must be prepared for the worst. Let’s say the presser foot of your old sewing machine breaks off, for instance. It could happen.
Most of our sewing machines have seen better days. While the thought alone is horrifying, you can salvage the situation if it comes to that. If you don’t have enough time or money to fix it immediately, a little thinking outside the box can help. Place a toothpick where the presser foot once was. Seems iffy but it works!
Store Bobbins with Knitting Needles
If the thought of digging through another tangled mess of bobbins scares you, this hack will make all the pain go away. You will need hot glue (of course), knitting needles, and mini rubber elastics. Use hot glue to seal one end of the knitting needles. This side remains permanently sealed, while the opposite end remains open.
Take a dowel and mini rubber elastics to secure the thread ends in place. This hack is inexpensive and nifty, although finding something other than hot glue would help make the bobbins at the end more accessible. An alternative? Kebab sticks! Use two sticks inserted in opposite directions and secure the ends with elastics.
Fabric Marker Hack
Some self-drafted patterns don’t come with seam allowances. Adding them while marking or cutting the fabric is essential. This picture shows a nifty hack for fabric markers. It’s a minor change that can make a big difference to sewing projects. Bonus tip: insert cooking chopsticks into one end of the marker to ensure precision.
Pencils aren’t always good on certain fabrics. Chopsticks account for the pen's height so that seam allowances are accurately marked and cut, even on stretchy knit fabrics. Who would’ve thought? It’s the little things that elevate sewing to the art that it is. This hack ensures it. Happy sewing!
Store Bobby Pins on a Sweatband
Using your mouth as a bobby pin holder might seem like a brilliant multitasking move until it’s not. Even the most meticulous person is likely to slip up at some point, placing the sharp point inside the mouth rather than out. It can happen.
Sewing can become chaotic when you’re rushing through projects. To avoid an unnecessary trip to the doctor, always have magnets handy. And if all else fails, a sweatband does the trick just as well. No matter the medium, it ultimately depends on the person concerned to pay attention. You don’t want to stab yourself either way.
Keep Bobbins and Thread Together Easily
Searching for matching bobbins and thread can be tiresome. Here is a fantastic hack to keep them paired up all the time. Thread a rubber band through the center of the bobbin. Loop its ends around the matching thread spool. Your thread and bobbin are now inseparable and fit neatly.
Bonus Tip: you could also get bobbin keepers. These nifty tools are available at most craft supplies stores. The bobbin keeper goes through the bobbin and into the middle of the center of the spool. A tiny addition that keeps your sewing supplies organized and ready for the next project.
Keep Track of Needles With Your Laptop
Multitasking has become second nature for many of us. Whether it's watching tutorials, catching up on favorite shows, or keeping an eye on work emails, when are we not attached at the hips to laptops or phones? This hack is for anyone who likes watching a show while sewing (how you’re able to do this is beyond us).
Locate the magnetic spot on your laptop, usually around the keyboard area. Place your needles or pins on there. They will stay put and within reach until you need them. No more fumbling around looking for needles or losing track of a movie or series.
Use Clamps for Your Sewing Projects
The simplest tools can make a world of difference while sewing, like these budget-friendly clamps. They are perfect for various sewing tasks and function as a third hand, essentially making them this generation’s Sewing Bird. The clamps are a game-changer for intricate hand-sewing finish on smaller pieces.
One can even drill a hole through the handle and nail it on a piece of secure wood or a worktable. That way, you’ll free up both hands and get more precise work done. Clamps can also keep everything in place if you need to spray bast items like quilts outdoors. The functionality knows no end with this item.
Easy Pre-Marking on Hems
The seemingly endless task of pre-marking hems can be a real buzzkill. This brilliant hack will save you time and effort. Get a piece of cardboard, that is incredibly versatile and easily available material. Draw three lines on the cardboard, aligning them perfectly with your desired seam size. Bend the cardboard along those pre-drawn lines, creating a sturdy, ready-to-use hem guide.
Secure it by adding a piece of tape to the bottom. Place your ingenious hem guide right into your sewing machine and align the fabric's edge with your pressure foot. Let the cardboard be your guide and work its magic. You've just discovered the ultimate shortcut to painless hemming.
Prevent Threads from Breaking With Tape
If you've ever tackled sewing stretchy materials, you know that thread breakage is a frustrating problem. Here’s a neat trick that'll put an end to those interruptions in your stitching. Grab some masking or Scotch tape from your crafting arsenal. Next, place a strip of this tape on the underside of your sewing machine's presser foot and that's it!
With this simple step, you're adding extra support that'll work wonders in preventing thread breakage as you stretch the material. With this quick fix in place, you can confidently sew and enjoy uninterrupted stitching. No more frustrating interruptions – just smooth sewing all the way.
Turn Stretchable Strips Inside Out
Turning long strips right side out can be downright tiresome after a point but thankfully, there’s a hack. Place some yarn inside the strip and sandwich it between the layers. Secure the yarn at the starting point. Begin sewing, ensuring not to catch the yarn while stitching.
Once you’re done sewing, gently tug on the yarn from the secured end. You should easily be able to flip the strip right side out. This easy hack can make sewing projects go a lot smoother and quicker. No more losing hours of patience and sleep over this one. Thank goodness for yarn.
Make Ruffles with a Fork
Ruffles add charm and elegance to any sewing project. But getting perfect, evenly-spaced frills can be a bit of a pickle. This hack is as simple as it is effective. Begin by taking your fabric and placing a section of it under the pressure foot. Make a single stitch as a starting point. Now it’s time to fork it up. Stop stitching, but don't lift the presser foot just yet.
Gather more fabric under the folds, using each prong of a fork. Yes, the same fork we use at the dinner table. The fork works wonderfully to create evenly-spaced folds. Press the gathered fabric down gently to ensure the ruffles maintain their lovely form. Make a stitch. Repeat the process, gathering, pressing, and stitching, until you have as many ruffles as you need.
Easily Make a Clean Inner Corner
Getting those angles perfect for inner corners is hard. But is it impossible? Not when you have this super nifty sewing hack. It's pretty neat, pun intended. Sew fabric as you normally would. Stop when you approach the desired point for the inner corner. Fold the fabric on the right side into a half triangle.
Ensure that the fold lines up perfectly with the fabric on the right. This step makes all the difference so don't rush through it. Once your fabric is neatly folded, stitch again and secure the fold. Isn't that the most immaculate inner corner you've ever seen? It's never been easier to stitch neat inner corners, beautiful and flawless from every angle.
Smart Button Storage
Buttons, buttons, everywhere! You know the struggle of keeping them organized. This handy trick will revolutionize the way you store your buttons. Take a safety pin and open it. Start placing your buttons onto the pin, one by one. After loading up your safety pin with buttons, close the pin's clasp.
Just like that, you've got yourself a brilliant button storage solution! Finding that elusive matching button just got easier. There’s so much potential for fun with this. Picture several safety pins organized not only by similar type but color, shade, size, and material. How neatly and beautifully they stack up!
Double Sided Tape to Organize a Sewing Kit
Messy sewing kits give all of us anxiety. It’s frustrating fumbling through tangled threads or desperately searching for that elusive thread or needle. Well, no more of that! This brilliant hack will transform chaotic kits. All you need is a roll of double-sided tape! Take a long strip of double-sided tape and stick it along the inside of your kit.
This works as a dedicated spot to stick your threads. Add a small piece of double-sided tape inside the lid and attach a magnet to it. Say hello to your needle storage space. To store round thread spools, take safety pins and thread your spools through. Close the pin to secure the spool in place.
Button Thread Embroidery
Buttons are functional but they don’t need to be boring. With creative and easy sewing, you can transform buttons into beautiful embellishments – think floral embroidery. Start by sewing the button onto your fabric with a green thread. You can use a standard button attachment to make up the "stem." Next, choose a different colored thread for the "petals.”
Put it through the top hole twice - the second time at an angle. Now for the twist - wrap the thread around the needle at least four to five times. Use your fingers to pull the thread down, creating a spring-like effect. Finally, pull the needle through firmly and finish off with a final stitch. “Flowers” growing inside buttons, just like that!
Zipper Woes? Use a Rubber Band
Few things are as upsetting as losing a favorite pair of denim to zipper woes. Damaged zippers, ones with no mind to move. This next hack isn’t so much a sewing hack as it is a life hack! It involves a simple rubber band. Grab a rubber band and attach it to the top of the chain.
Keep a big loop intact since this is what will fix everything! Use the rubber band to pull up the zipper. Fasten one end of the rubber band to your jeans' button. You'll have a discreet attachment that won't be visible when you button up your jeans. That’s all it takes for a zipper to be back in action.
Tame Tricky Thin Strips Easily
Stringy strips of material seem to have a mind of their own. It can be so hard to get a good stitch in. All that slipping and sliding makes sewing an ultimate challenge. A safety pin – the best sidekick known to humankind - can help rescue this situation. Place a large safety pin around the machine’s presser foot.
Thread your string or fabric strip through the bottom of the safety pin. Tug the safety pin down to the base of the presser foot. This keeps the pin firmly in place. Pull the other end of the string to the opposite side, align your fabric strip, and start sewing!
This Hack Has Bra Woes Covered
It’s tough finding a bra that fits like second skin. Sometimes the cup sizes are too large or small, or the sides seem a tad too big. The good news is you can fix the latter. Before contemplating another trip to the mall, take a look at this nifty sewing hack. You will first need some neutral-colored thread that matches or blends into your bra. This little fix must be discreet.
Mark the area on the base where you want to make a snugger fit. Make a basic running stitch there. Now, stitch loosely from the base stitch, moving up toward where the straps are. This creates a gentle gather of excess fabric. Achieved the desired fit? Give the thread a gentle pull and secure the gather. It’s a quick sewing fix that'll have your bra fitting just right.
Get Crafty With Storage
What would sewists do without our trusty pins? But let's face it – keeping them organized can be a bit of a challenge. Rummaging for pins just slows everything down. If you’ve pricked many fingers numb looking for pins or simply want to upgrade your pin-storage game, why not try a more straightforward solution?
Find yourself a sponge, preferably clean and unused. Take those pins and stick them right into the sponge. Say hello to a DIY pin cushion made from a humble sponge. This is as rustic and thrifty as it gets. We admit it isn’t the most pleasing aesthetically but it’s still a quick, easy, and cost-effective sewing hack.
Marking Fabric? Use Soap Instead of Ink
Precision is key while sewing and marking fabric accurately is indispensable to this. You can choose fabric markers or chalk, but there's a surprising alternative that might work even better. Soap! Any bar of soap will do as long as the lines are visible on the fabric.
Gently rub the soap against fabric laid out flat. The soap should leave a visible line that's easy to follow. Sew your fabric as per usual. What’s great about this hack is that the markings will wash out easily in your next laundry cycle. Plus, it's an eco-friendly option that eliminates the need for disposable markers or chalk.
The Various Uses of Soap
Soap seems like an everyday washing essential. There’s so much more to soap than that. This inconspicuous item can double as a pin cushion while sewing. Before you leave, hear us out. This is how to make this unique hack work for you. Find a bar of soap, preferably plain or unscented.
We don't want pins or fabric to pick up any unwanted fragrances. Now simply insert your pins directly into the soap. The soft texture makes it easy to slide your pins in and out. It’s an unusual but effective pin cushion. Not only does it keep your pins organized but it also keeps them sharp and rust-free.
Make Precision Hand Stitching Simple
People who love hand sewing and hand quilting, we have nothing but mad respect for you. It needs both infinite patience and skill to get perfect stitches. For the rest of us, this hack might just change everything. If you struggle with keeping your stitches evenly spaced while hand sewing, get yourself a ruler or a small scale.
Mark the lines on the nail that typically holds your fabric in place. These lines should match the distance you need between your stitches. You'll find that these marked lines on the nail act as your stitching guide. Mind-blowing, isn’t it?
Use a Magnet on Scissors for Pin Storage
Ever been in a pin-picking predicament while working diligently at your sewing machine? This brilliant hack to store pins will become your new best friend. Get yourself a small magnet, the kind you might have on your refrigerator. Fix the magnet to your scissors. Position it so that it doesn’t get in the way while you cut thread or fabric.
Place some pins or needles on the magnet and you’re all set to sew. Just like that, you've elevated your sewing process to a whole new level of efficiency! The magnet on your scissors ensures that those few essential pins you need are always within easy reach. No more frantic searching or disruptions in your sewing flow.
Use a Broomstick to Make Cutting Binding Easier
Sewing can sometimes require a bit of creativity, especially for tackling projects that involve continuous binding. This nifty sewing hack is sure to simplify the process. First, find a clean broomstick sans any debris or dirt. You can also use any other stick. It should just be straight and sturdy.
Lay your fabric flat. Place the broomstick along the edge where you want to create your continuous binding. It's like having an extra set of hands to hold everything in place. Now all you need to do is cut and cut some more with no worries. Press the finished product down for a neat and tidy finish.
Polish Your Buttons With Ease
Frayed buttons can ruin the overall look of any sewing project, truth be told. A common issue is thread fraying and sticking out from inside one. Thread fraying can make garments look old and worn out. Let's be honest, why would you settle for anything less than polished and fabulous?
That's what nail polish is for. Carefully apply a small amount of clear nail polish to frayed threads. Ensure they're coated evenly. Allow the nail polish to dry completely. Who knew our favorite beauty staple also works as a sealant? Go ahead and tame those unruly threads with this simple hack.
Set Unruly Threads With Hairspray
This one’s for all those times when you were set for a sewing project, but your thread had other plans! You get the frustration. Threading a needle isn’t supposed to be so tiresome, yet here we are - threads with frayed edges that resemble a multi-pronged fork.
When your patience (or spittle) is at an end, turn to hairspray. Give the frayed thread edges a light spritz of hairspray. Trust us, it works like a charm. It sets the frayed edges, making them easier to thread through the needle. This hack makes sewing smooth and easy and ensures your threads always behave.
Finger Spacing Works Wonders
It’s easy to veer off track when you're working on blanket stitches. No matter how good the eyesight or spatial intelligence, we could all do with a little help sometimes. This one doesn’t involve new prescription glasses, just a ruler and your index finger. Mark four inches on your finger with a marker.
Begin stitching and use the marked points on your forefinger as a guide. This simple technique helps create consistently spaced blanket stitches as you work your way through a fabric. Repeat the process as needed. That’s one small adjustment and a giant leap for sewing projects everywhere.
Use Washi Tape for Measuring
Why is achieving even spacing along the sides of fabric so tricky? Next time you’re in a fix while stitching a border, use washi tape. Stick a strip of tape along the sides of your fabric. Make large and loose running stitches along the sides of the tape.
The tape acts as a visual marker, ensuring your stitches are evenly spaced. Peel off the tape for a perfectly aligned border. No more crooked stitches and starting a project from scratch in frustration. This hack makes stitching a breeze. It’s the precision and efficiency every sewing enthusiast needs in their life.
The Secret to Perfect Knots
Tying knots is part of hand sewing 101. Easier said than done. Simple unassuming things like knotting can trip up your project and threaten to have it fall apart. Like the best things in life, there's a hack for this one as well. Begin by threading your needle as per usual.
Take one end of the thread and position it under the needle. Hold one end securely with your finger. Remember to keep the other end free. Start wrapping the thread around the needle with your free hand. Slide all the loops down towards the needle’s base. Now, gently pull the needle out. You've created a perfectly secure knot!
Use a Razor for Perfectly Distressed Denim
Distressing denim adds an edgy touch to your overall look. One of the quickest, most effective methods involves a regular disposable shaving razor. Choose your denim fabric and identify the areas you want to distress. These are typically around the zipper area, waistband, and pockets where distressing looks the most natural.
Gently scrape the razor back and forth over these areas you want to distress. The goal is to create a slightly worn and faded look. Continue scraping until you’re happy with the look. You can go as light or heavy as you prefer depending on personal style or design you're going for.
Use Plates or Cups to Draw Circles
This clever sewing hack makes drawing perfect circles as easy as pie. Freehand cutting is for the professionals after all. The rest of us are usually left dealing with uneven edges and fabric gone to waste. Round and round we go, but where are the circles at? It’s time to stop chasing our own tails and get inventive.
Head to the kitchen and grab a plate or cup of the right size. Place it on the fabric where you want the cutout. Hold the utensil firmly in place and trace around it using a fabric marker or chalk. This creates a precise outline. Follow the marked line as you cut out your circle.
Wash Fabric Before Sewing
Starting a new project? The last thing you want is to wash the fabric, right? Is it really necessary? Yes. Before rushing in, pre-washing fabric is absolutely essential. Here's why. First, you don't want to be surprised by fabric shrinkage.
Natural fibers shrink considerably during their first wash, so why not stay miles ahead and allow your fabric to shrink before you sew? The final product will stay the original size you wanted it to be. Second, washing new fabric also helps get rid of lingering chemical treatments, excess dyes, or dirt. Think of the entire process as new, squeaky-clean beginnings.
Sew Buttons with a Machine
Buttons seem like tiny finishes to sewing projects. Yet sometimes they can be a bit fiddly to attach by hand. Consider sewing buttons with a sewing machine instead! Select the button you want to attach and place it where you want it on the fabric. Swap your regular sewing machine foot for a button sewing foot. It’s an attachment designed for this very purpose. Align fabric and button under the presser foot.
Check twice to ensure the needle lines up with the buttonholes. Lower the presser foot. It helps to adjust machine settings to a zigzag stitch with a very short length. Start sewing! You’ll automatically get neat and secure stitches for buttons. For anyone who wants to expand or streamline the process without compromising on quality, this hack works wonderfully.
A Strap for Your Scissors
What's more annoying than being neck-deep into a sewing project when you lose your scissors? Nothing is. Imagine all the time we'd save if we didn't leave scissors lying around anywhere. Those days might just be behind us. Make yourself a scissor strap, ladies and gents. How? Fold a piece of fabric in half to create a strap.
Fold the raw edges inward and run it through the sewing machine to top stitch both sides. Ensure the strap is no more than 2 inches wide. Thread the strap through the largest hole of your scissors. Sew the loop shut but leave enough length to hang comfortably. You’ve just created a handy strap that keeps scissors at arm’s length.
Get Body Measurements Right Every Time
How do you ensure body measurements are spot on? Look no further than this sewing hack. It ties everything together quite literally. Tie something around your body at key circumference points such as your bust, above your bust, waist, and hip. These ties create actual lines and clear reference points for measurement.
This hack is a game-changer for measurements like shoulder to waist, side seam lengths, bust to waist, and more. You'll get precise pattern drafting and perfectly fitting clothes. No more wondering if the clothes will turn out too big, too small, or just plain wonky. Stitch perfectly tailored clothes every time!
Only Use Fabric Scissors
Every superhero needs cool kits and tools. It’s no different for crusaders delighting the world one stitch at a time. Among these tools, an often overlooked hero is the scissor. When it comes to sewing, not any pair of scissors will do. Fabric scissors, also called dressmaking or sewing shears, are specially designed for the task at hand.
Unlike regular scissors, fabric scissors have razor-sharp blades. Nothing compared to the sound of fabric scissors going snip snip snip as they effortlessly glide through fabric. The result is clean, precise cuts that gladdens every seamstress’s heart. Keep them sharp by never using them for anything but fabric cutting.
Some TLC for Your Scissors
Scissors are unsung heroes of the sewing universe. We put them to work continuously, cutting through fabric, thread, and heaven knows what else. They deserve a little care post-use to stay at their best. Give your scissors a gentle wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth after each use.
Doing this regularly helps remove any residue on the scissors. Those blades will stay in top shape - sharp and ready for your next project and many more to come. Taking care of scissors goes a long way in ensuring smoother, frustration-free cutting. We're not going to lie - your sewing projects will thank you for it.
Don’t Use Scissors to Cut Pins
It’s tempting to use scissors to cut a few pins. What's a harmless quick fix, especially when you’re neck deep in stitching and the scissors are right there within reach? We’re here to say don’t. Please don’t do it. Resist the temptation because pins and scissors don't get along, and never the twain should meet.
It's the quickest way to dull a perfectly good pair of scissors. Pins might look harmless but remember, they're made of hard metal. Invest in a pair of wire cutters or pin snips designed specifically for cutting pins. This small change can go a long way.
Learn the Art of Staystitching
Attention to detail differentiates amazing sewing projects from good ones. If you want to ace the precision game, learning to staystitch can make a big difference to your projects. Staystitching is a neat row of machine stitching on a single layer of fabric. You stitch from top to bottom, just inside the seam line, and ideally while the fabric is still fresh after cutting.
How does one do it? The process is pretty simple - choose a straight stitch (2.0 or slightly less) on your sewing machine. Run the fabric through while making one-sixteenth-inch stitches inside the stitching line. Any fabric (even yarn) can benefit from this simple step.
Use Beeswax to Fix Frayed Threads
Fraying threads can be minor but annoying headaches while sewing. They unravel and tangle, making life more complicated than it needs to be. Still, sewists everywhere are nothing but resourceful and crafty. It’s kind of a pre-requisite to the occupation if you will. This super simple but excellent hack to fix fraying threads proves it.
Someone, somewhere, had the genius idea to use beeswax to prevent thread fraying. Beeswax adds more strength to the thread and helps it glide through needles and fabric with ease. Every little detail matters in sewing. This quick fix ensures a smoother, happier experience for the sewing community everywhere.
Never Lose Needles Again
This one’s a simple and budget-friendly hack to keep pins and needles in one place. Take a standard kitchen sponge, preferably new and clean but even an old one will do. Pick up stray pins or needles and stick them all into the sponge. The sponge's porous texture holds them securely in place.
No more accidentally dropping them on the floor and all hell breaking loose as you scramble to pick up each one. It’s a good way to save time and prevent accidents. Bonus: your sewing space will stay neat and tidy all the time, which is every sewist’s dream.
Learn How to Use the Narrow Hemmer
It's safe to say that every minute counts while sewing. Learning how to use the hemmer foot can elevate your sewing game like no other. The Hemmer Foot is a small but mind-blowing attachment that usually comes along with the sewing machine when you buy it.
It makes pressing and sewing fabric edge an absolute breeze, even five meters of fabric for a double-sided ruffle, for instance. What sets the Hemmer Foot apart is its curl on the inside. This tiny addition deftly takes in fabric to create small straight-stitched baby hems or rolled zig-zag stitched edges, both stellar choices for fabric edge finishes.
Keep Pins and Needles Sharp With Steel Wool
Every sewist worth their salt knows that storing needles in a wool pin cushion keeps them sharp. But what if you're out of wool and you don’t have anything else handy around the house? Think twice. Head to the kitchen because you just might have something in there that works.
Steel wool is a great substitute when you don't have much else to go on. It's a great short-term fix. Just keep in mind that prolonged contact can lead to needle rust. The best way is to use a steel wool pincushion right before a project to sharpen your pins.
Drip Essential Oil Onto Pin Cushions
Dripping a few drops of essential oils onto your pincushion can elevate sewing. Right, sewing and aromatherapy seem like an unlikely pair, but trust us, this is a game changer. Essential oils transform an ordinary pin cushion into a sweet-smelling one. Plus, it adds a lovely fragrant touch to your needles, fabric, and the entire sewing room!
Choose fragrances that aren’t too overpowering and set a certain mood. Vanilla to feel like home or a French patisserie, citrus for freshness, or eucalyptus to invigorate. The choice and setting are yours for the making. All that’s left is to sew in calm and comfort.
Fake Hems With Some Bias Tape
In case you didn't know already, bias tape is the answer to all hemming woes. A hack so simple you’ll never want to go without again. Place the fabric right side up to start. Align one side with the edge that needs hemming. Make sure the fabric is right side up and pin the tape in place. Continue lining up the tape with the cloth.
Trim off the excess and sew the tape along the fold. Next, flip the tape up the inner fabric. Continue flipping and pinning along the hem like the last time. Sew the rough edges down. Now give the hem a good press with an iron. You're done. Perfect hemming with none of the fuss. It's that easy and looks fantastic to boot!
Test Stitches Before You Sew
Few things are as exciting as starting a new sewing project. The thought of testing stitches, however, is a drag. But proactive testing can save you a world of hell later on. Take thread and fabric scraps you intend to use for the next project. If not, similar stuff will do just as well. Begin by testing a standard straight stitch through the sewing machine.
If all seems well, move on to a zigzag stitch. Check whether the needle moves smoothly from side to side. Run a test of all kinds of stitches your project might need. Reset the machine to a standard straight stitch and run a final test seam to wrap it up.
Keep Your Iron Clean
From seasoned pros to novices, keeping your iron clean is the best way to keep sewing projects in top shape. The soleplate of your iron can accumulate residue over time which can potentially damage your fabric. Clean residue with distilled water. Tap water can contain minerals that clog vents and create more issues. Items like pipe cleaners, cotton swabs, and toothbrushes are excellent cleaning tools.
Use either one to loosen stubborn residue or tackle hard-to-reach nooks inside steam vents. In case you’re struggling with melted-on plastic, a little ice might help remove it without causing much damage to the metal. Place the part with residue on ice for a few minutes. Take a plastic knife to scrape the plastic residue away.
Organize Sewing Kits With Toothpicks And Styrofoam
The joy of a well-organized sewing box is unbeatable - easier said than done, however. This hack ensures you no longer have to go rummaging through a tangled mess of threads. Line the bottom of your sewing box with a layer of Styrofoam (or thermocol depending on where in the globe you are).
Take a bunch of toothpicks and insert them into the Styrofoam in neat rows as thread holders. Place your thread spools on the toothpicks – one spool per toothpick. The end result is a beautifully organized and accessible collection of threads. Sort everything by color or theme, whatever tickles your fancy.
Beat Uneven Seams With a Comb
Every sewist is familiar with the frustration of uneven seams. Here’s a clever sewing hack that will turn your stitching game around like never before. You'll first need a comb – the kind with wide teeth. Lay your fabric out and place the comb on top of it.
Start sewing and ensure your needle follows the comb's edge. The teeth of the comb become your guide. Stitch away with no fear. The comb's teeth help maintain a straight and even line, resulting in beautifully spaced stitches. Give this handy hack a whirl and you won’t need to struggle with wobbly seams ever again.
Paper Fans for Flawless Folds
How do you ensure your impeccable folds every time? You'll need two sheets of paper, a cloth, a ruler, masking tape, and your iron. Make paper fans from the sheets, and maybe dive into a little nostalgia while you're at it. Carefully place the fabric on top of the paper fans.
Use the ruler to tuck fabric in neat and tight. Aligning each section with the paper folds underneath. Fire up your iron and press out the folds. You'll see the cutest folds taking shape. Finally, apply masking tape to secure the folds and sew along the edge. You’re done! Aren’t those the cutest skirt folds you’ve ever seen?
Create Your Own Sewing Thread Dispenser
To be fair, a traditional sewing thread dispensing rack isn’t the most expensive item you’ll ever buy. But if you have a leftover plastic bottle lying around, you can actually make your own in just a matter of minutes.
All you need to do is cut the bottle in half, cut some holes along the edges, put some stick through the holes and hang the thread roles on each one. Then, you can glue the bottle halves back together, and simply pull whichever thread you want to use through the holes. Put it this way, it’s just as easy as buying a rack.
Create a Mini Sewing Box
Sewing doesn’t always involve big projects. Most of the time it means having to do quick fixes around the house, which is why a compact sewing kit is ideal. Instead of buying yet another one, turn a matchbox into your very own mini sewing kit. It’s nifty, easy, and doesn’t warrant another trip to the crafts supply store, no matter how tempting!
Empty a matchbox of its original contents and you’re ready to begin. Load up your matchbox with every sewing essential you might need – needles of various sizes, small spools of thread, buttons, and safety pins. Add a tiny pin cushion or decorate the box with fabric scrap for a bit of whimsy.
Sew With Decorative Thread
Make your projects pop with decorative thread! Far from ordinary, this thread has numerous textures, finishes, and colors - the options are mind-boggling. Some are metallic, glossy, or even matte. It's perfect for projects that need to make a statement. The thread is quite versatile too.
Use it on denim, cotton, or silk. As always, experiment on scrap fabric first before committing your entire project to it. Figure out what works best for you. It’s a surefire way to give every project a little oomph and flair, with each one turning into a unique piece of art. Who would say no to that?
Keep a Tape Measure Handy
How often have you been eyeballs deep in sewing, only to realize you need to measure something and the tape measure is nowhere to be found? You could’ve sworn you left it right there! The solution is to have a tape measure handy right by your sewing machine at all times. A stitch and measure in time saves nine, especially for pesky hems and seams.
A tape measure within arm's reach helps you switch seamlessly (pun intended) between stitching and measuring. If you struggle with putting things back in their place, consider taping the tape measure to your sewing table. Desperate times, desperate measures – but if it works, why not?
Keep Extra Buttons Handy
Sewing is never a straightforward process, far from it. You might be in the middle of something when you suddenly need a button for an embellishment. Maybe you need one for a quick fix too. What’s a real buzzkill, however? Scrambling to find the right button! Way to kill that creative flow.
Stay ahead of it by keeping a small button container near your sewing station. Keeping various kinds of buttons handy is convenient. Plus, it’s all about staying organized and inspired. A clutter-free sewing space helps you focus on the joy of creating without unnecessary distractions. Find a cute container for your buttons and keep it near you at all times.
Know Which Side to Sew
Knowing which is the right side of your fabric greatly affects how a project comes together. While different fabrics reveal their right side differently, sewists can bank on some straightforward techniques for most. If you see a print on only one side, that's likely the right side.
When both sides have a print, the right side usually appears brighter. It’s a little different for solid fabrics. Hold the fabric up to a light source. Check carefully for variations in sheen or tone. Sometimes one side might have a subtle difference that makes it the preferred choice for the right side. You’ll know it when you see it.
Use a Pen to Secure and Guide Fabric
You've got your fabric and vision. It’s time to bring it to life with a fantastic waistband or cuff. This quick and clever hack helps you get started in a flash. Cut the strip of fabric and fold it in place. Place one end of your fabric under the pressure foot. Here’s where things get interesting! Grab a pen and position it about an inch away from the pressure foot.
The pen’s your secret tool to hold everything in place. Tuck the fabric’s raw edges between the pen's cover to snugly keep things in position. Once you’ve ensured everything is in place, start stitching. The pen guides and holds leaving your hands free for sewing. The results are fantastic. If you're worried about the pen moving, use tape to anchor it down.
Save Money When Cleaning Your Machine
Truth be told, sewing machines can get super dirty. They can get filled with fabric, thread particles, and plenty of dust if they are not maintained properly. In order to suck out all of the dirt from your beloved machines, you're probably going to require some kind of canned air.
This can definitely help clean up your machines in no time at all. But with that said, canned air isn't so easy to come by. And it can be quite pricey. So it's worth considering using a bicycle pump to clean your machine. A typical pump costs in the region of five bucks and can be used forever.
Use a Hair Straightener to Press Fabric in Between Embellishments
Let’s say you've painstakingly added buttons and embellishments but there's that one annoying little detail still left. Pressing the wrinkly, uneven spaces in between each one evenly. Traditional irons are too bulky and don’t get the job done to perfection. Ditch the iron and use a hair straightener instead.
The narrow plates are perfect for targeting those tight spaces while delivering even heat for smooth results. Carefully maneuver it between your buttons or embellishments. Remember that hair straighteners get very hot, so always handle them with care. You don’t want to scald your fingers or your fabric in the process.