Tips for Machine Sewing on Cards or Layouts
One of my favourite embellishments to use on my pages and cards is machine stitching. I know a lot of people are quite intimidated with sewing on their paper creations so I thought I’d share a few machine sewing tips and tricks.
Tip 1: Thread Tension
One of the keys to sewing successfully with paper is the tension you have your machine set at. Each individual machine is different but I have found the less tension the better. If your tension is set too high, the thread pulls too hard from one stitch to the next and will tear the paper between them. I have my thread tension set at zero on my particular machine.
Tip 2: Practice! Practice!
Every piece of paper is a little different from the next. For a great result, practice with a scrap of the paper that you are going to use. This will also allow you to make sure that you get the desired stitch you want and its proper spacing on your creation. Try using different kinds of stitches as well. A zig zag stitch is always fun!
Tip 3: Corners
The part that most people struggle with when stitching is the corners. To make the perfect corner follow these three easy tips:
1. Run your paper to the desired spot that you wish to begin your corner stitch—leaving your needle DOWN inside the machine.
2. Lift your machine’s presser foot up; again leaving the needle inside the machine. Carefully rotate your paper to the desired position on the machine.
3. Lower your presser foot back to the surface of the paper. Continue sewing.
Tip 4: Adhesive
Be aware of where you are going to sew on your project. As much as possible, avoid placing the adhesive where you will be stitching. Sewing machines do not like adhesive! It can jam up the workings of the needle and the thread can lodge within the machine. So take care in the placement of your strips of adhesive.
Tip 5: Layers
Don’t layer too many pieces of paper and expect your machine to be able to stitch through them all. Plan ahead and stitch things in layers of two or three at the most.
Tip 6: Back Stitching
I do not use this function on my machine when stitching on paper. It could cause too many holes in your project and may cause your creation to fall apart in this area. Try simply using a pair of tweezers to pull the threads from the top of your project to the back. I secure my stray threads to the back of my project with simple tape.
Here’s a card I made using all of the tips and tricks from above:
Hugs & Kisses
by Allison Cope, Sparwood, B.C.
supplies: cardstock, Bazzill, The Paper Company, Prism; patterned paper, Scenic Route, BoBunny, BasicGrey; stamps, Stampin’ Up!, Inkadinkado; ink, Close To My Heart, Tsukineko; bling, Prima; brad, Imaginisce; other, thread, lace
Article by: Allison Cope
