I have been enjoying making fabric and fabric texturing for some time now. I love to take a plain piece of fabric and embellish it to my hearts content. It is wonderful to see your fabric come to life right before you, with a little imagination and a lot of fabulous threads. Once I find something that looks great and works well I write it down in a notebook to keep for future reference (what threads, needle, tension setting, bobbin thread I used and sew on). This has been a great help and time saver for me with my many projects. I would like to share with you some of my notes and techniques I use in my pattern line ?BELINDA?S DESIGNS?.

BELINDA?S NOTES:

THREADS: When using decorative threads it is important to purchase good threads, don?t waste your time & money on cheap thread that keep breaking or shredding, this will only cause frustration. When using decorative threads, such as: SLIVER (by SULKY), metallic and 30-weight rayon it may be necessary to lower the upper thread tension on the sewing machine. When threading the machine bypass the needle bar thread guide, this will be less stressful on the decorative thread. Start sewing slowly till you are comfortable with the thread. When using Sliver thread, place the spool in a vertical position with a felt pad under it. The bobbin thread should be about the same weight as the thread in the needle. Wind the bobbin slower than you normally would, if you wind the bobbin too fast the thread may stretch & cause top thread breakage. You may want to try any of the following to see what works best with what thread: Bobbin Fill, Monofilament .004mm polyester Lingerie.

Note: When using decorative threads Try 2 threads in the same needle this has a nice effect on the fabric.

IF YOUR THREAD KEEPS BREAKING: reduce the top tension, use a new needle such as an embroidery 90/14, topstitch 80/12, and sew slower. If the bobbin thread shows on the top of the fabric lower the upper tension.