Tips for Sewing Delicate Fabrics by Lenie Riegman

Delicate fabrics are particularly time consuming to work with. Fabric such as lace, silk, organza, etc are difficult to maneuver and make sewing a tedious job.
Garments and other projects designed to be made out of delicate materials such as lace or thin cotton can present problems for the beginner who doesn't have much experience.
Some other fabrics that may belong to this category are:

Wearable art is very hard to work with and can certainly be considered a delicate fabric.

Heirlooms of silk and lace should never be handled or repaired by a novice. Heirlooms should always be treated like the delicate fabric they are.

Wool can be challenging to sew because of the thickness. In particular if the material has delicate beaded or embroidered designs on it.

Fabrics with embellishments are hard to work with at times which is another reason training in sewing is necessary.

If you want to sew with a delicate fabric or you are unsure of your sewing abilities practice sewing on sample pieces first. Practice until the material feels comfortable in your hands to work with and your patience will be rewarded with a piece of work to be proud of.
When sewing a thin delicate fabric on a sewing machine it may help to use some tissue paper underneath the material. This supports the material and prevents stretching. Once you have sewn the pieces together remove the tissue paper - it will tear of easily. To prevent puckering be sure you hold the material firm in front and back of the needle.
Whether you sew by hand or with a sewing machine make sure you use a correct size and sharp needle for thin delicate fabrics. It is recommended that you use a needle size 10/60, 10/70 or 11/75 for machine stitching.
Beginners will find sewing delicate fabrics challenging, however with some practice you may soon be recognized for your work by family and friends, or even in your local area. A good first project which is easy to work with is lace doilies used together with a cotton fabric to make pillows, serviettes or tablecloths.
Tablecloths and placemats along with table runners are beautiful on a well decorated table which offers delicate place settings with the simplicity of delicate fabrics sewn to perfection. A dining table which is elegantly showcasing some of the most delicate features of the dining room including lovely lace napkins and unique patterns in a tablecloth are divine for special occasions and for everyday dining.
Sewing delicate fabrics offers you and your family the chance to have many different and unusual fabrics and upholstery in your home. Tablecloths and dining room essentials are easy to make. Curtains and bed coverings are enhanced by the personal touches of someone who knows how to sew delicate fabrics.
It is very special when a person takes the time to make something special for everyone to enjoy.
Sewing is an art of creating beautiful things. For more information about home sewing projects visit http://www.homesewingprojects.com

Thanks Lenie for a great article. After you sew up some cool things, come on over to www.HandmadeCatalog.com and sell your crafts on the Internet!