Hi! I just have a quick question about how to keep my sewing supplies in good working order. What’s the best way to go about sharpening a seam ripper?
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Hi there! A seam ripper can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Hope this helps!
Ashley
You might also be interested in:
Essential Sewing Tools and Supplies
What You Need to Know About Seam Rippers
Sewing Pattern Alteration and Tools
Sewing Ergonomics: Tools, Tips and Techniques
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no where does it show how to sharpen one
Hello Teri,
You can sharpen a seam ripper by using a tool called a bead reamer, which can be found at most craft stores, or a needle file, which sometimes comes with jeweller’s tools, and can also sometimes be found at the hardware store. Place the tool alongside the cutting edge of the seam ripper at a slight angle and gently push upward in a sweeping motion away from the main bulk of the seam ripper. Repeat a few times on each side of the seam ripper’s cutting edge, then test the results.
Hope this helps!
Best,
Nicki
National Sewing Circle
I have several seam rippers of different sizes. Did not know about the curved one. Thank you 😊.
Love your videos
AND… how was this about sharpening your seam ripper?
How to sharpen a seam with bead reamer
Hello Lorene,
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43623 How do you sharpen seam rippers?
Hello Vickie,
You can sharpen a seam ripper by using a tool called a bead reamer, which can be found at most craft stores, or a needle file, which sometimes comes with jeweller’s tools, and can also sometimes be found at the hardware store. Place the tool alongside the cutting edge of the seam ripper at a slight angle and gently push upward in a sweeping motion away from the main bulk of the seam ripper. Repeat a few times on each side of the seam ripper’s cutting edge, then test the results.
Hope this helps!
Best,
Nicki
Nice to no how to sharpened a seam ripper
This was very helpful. How do I sharpen my scissors?
Any advice on how to add sleeves to a short sleeve dress?
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Thanks!
The last seam ripper is called surgical because that type of knife is used in surgeries.
Sharpen seam ripper
The title was “How to sharpen seam rippers”, not how to use them. So, how do you actually sharpen a seam ripper?
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Thanks!
I watched the whole video which explained how to use seam rippers. BTW the part about the serger seam ripper was badly down and she took a chuck off the end of her sample. Also, I find using my lint roller or tape works better on the other side of the fabric. But my real comment is that I wasted my time because I wanted to learn how to SHARPEN my seam ripper. I am , unfortunately, an expert on using seam rippers.
sharpen rotary cutter????
It would be nice if this clip actually showed us how to SHARPEN a seam ripper, as the title suggests.
I make alot of mistakes and I am always buying seam rippers. Would love to know how to sharpen them.
I need to know how you sharpen a seam ripper.
This video was labelled as “how to sharpen a seam ripper”. That topic was not addressed at all.
This video has NOTHING about sharpening
And you sharpen then how?
How do you sharpen seam rippers
Hello Mary Anne,
Hello,
You can sharpen a seam ripper by using a tool called a bead reamer, which can be found at most craft stores, or a needle file, which sometimes comes with jeweller’s tools, and can also sometimes be found at the hardware store. Place the tool alongside the cutting edge of the seam ripper at a slight angle and gently push upward in a sweeping motion away from the main bulk of the seam ripper. Repeat a few times on each side of the seam ripper’s cutting edge, then test the results.
Hope this helps!
Best,
Nicki
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the offer below:
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The name of the article is how to sharpen seam rippers, but she doesn’t mention that even once, and she certainly doesn’t show how to do it! The article should be called, “How to use seam rippers.” NOT HELPFUL at all!!
Hello. I am sorry for the confusion. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
The video doesn’t show how to sharpen a seam ripper, I’d like to know how you use a bead reamer to sharpen one.
Hello Alex,
To sharpen a seam ripper using a bead reamer (which is like a round, tapered emery board), hold the seam ripper in one hand and the bead reamer in the other. Then move the bead reamer in an upward motion against the seam ripper’s blade several times on each side. Check the sharpness of the seam ripper and continue filing against the blade if necessary.
Hope this helps!
Apparently, I video I saw was not how to sharpen your seam ripper, it was how to use a seam ripper.
Good information!
Why did a link title “How to Sharpen Seam Rippers” lead me to a video that did not show me how to sharpen seam rippers?
That was a good video about seam rippers. I think I’ve been using it wrong.
There’s a much faster way to rip seams. The little red ball is there for a reason. It prevents cutting the fabric when using the following method: Open the seam just about an inch or so, you may want to use your presser foot as a third hand, hold the fabrics with even pressure on both sides, slip the seam ripper between the two fabrics with the ball on the hidden side of the seam to be ripped. Proceed to just slide the ripper along the seam between the two fabrics. Finished in seconds! Clean up the threads as directed in the video.
It’s called a surgical seam ripper because it uses a surgical blade – just like the ones surgeons use in the operating room – only they don’t have the long plastic handle. That blade is fairly easily changed – but it’s also extremely sharp and can cut through your skin like paper, so caution is needed when using it.
Very interesting, thank you.
no comments
This is NOT how to sharpen a seam ripper! This is HOW TO USE A SEAM RIPPER!!
I thought this video was to show how to sharpen a seam ripper not how to use one.
I thought the video was supposed to be about sharpening seam rippers, not the differences between different types.
So you are saying the curved blade ripper is “sergical” ripper?? For “serged seams”… it is called a surgical seam ripper because it is much like a scalpel in sharpness! Must be very careful with one as it will slice your fabric so quickly if not used as designed. And your post is “how to sharpen a seam ripper” yet never says a thing about how to do that! I certainly won’t be reading any more from you…..
Great tutorial on using your seam rippers. Tag /headline & Pinterest say how to sharpen your seam ripper. That is why I followed the link. I watched twice just to make sure. If you have one on sharpening the seam ripper please let me know. Thank you.
Hello Michelle,
They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I wanted to see her sharpen her ripper. Not how to use it.
I watched your video on how to sharpen seam rippers and not once does it tell you how to do that it’s simply tells you how to use a seam ripper can you clarify please
Hello Deb,
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
If you are interested in becoming a member, please click on the offer below:
https://go.nationalsewingcircle.com/a19773 Thanks!
Great presentation. You were very clear. Thank you
You don’t show how to sharpen ripper tool only how to rip with tool.
Can you sharpen your sewing machine needles?
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
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Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I just watched a 6 minute video titled “how to sharpen your seam ripper ” that never once addressed how to sharpen a seam ripper. So disappointing.
Hello Amy,
They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Thanks I buy new rippers when they get blunt.
Will sharpen them now !
I want to know more about sewing
Hello Atsu,
Thank you for contacting us.
We would be happy to have you apart of our online community. Here is a link to a Premium membership at a deep discounted rate for a full year: https://go.nationalsewingcircle.com/C34153
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
that’s great I will try that next time . I found lint roller to be quite handy for more than lint, thank you
Where’s the sharpening tutorial, which is really all anyone needs?!?
You want people to download your sharpening tools pa ckage, prove you have some sharpening video somewhere.
The curved hook ripper is not named because it is a serger tool, but because the blade was originally a surgery tool used as a veterinarian’s blade for livestock neutering.
I was wondering if anyone would catch that. That seam ripper is modeled on a scalpel blade, a surgical tool. This is why it is important to read: surgical and serger are not related words as is obvious from the spelling. The video not only makes that error but also doesn’t cover the ball’s use on the ripper, and doesn’t talk at all about sharpening. Rather amateur.
This tutorial was all about how to use a seam ripper, not how to sharpen a seam ripper which is what the title said
Hi Nancy. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Nothing like watching a video that’s supposed to show you how to sharpen a seam ripper, and you get a tutorial on how to USE one.
Hi Janet. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Wrong video. What I saw was Megan Smith demonstrateing how to use 3 different seam rippers.
very disappointed that the title is how to sharpen seam ripper but there is nothing about that in the video or text!!!!
Hello,
Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Not helpful re: how to sharpen a seam ripper! Please reconsider & provide such a video. Thanks
Hello CL,
Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Disappointing. Did not stick to topic and demonstrate how to sharpen a seam ripper. Did not demonstrate role of side with the balled end.
Hi Mary. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Thanks
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
This video was supposed to be about sharpening your seam ripper; however, it was only about using one.
Hi Beatrice. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
This video, which does not address how to sharpen a seam ripper, also contains an unbelievable statement. The third sample seam ripper shown is called a “sergical ripper because it’s for serged seams”? Seriously?! It’s called “surgical” because the business end is like a surgical scalpel. Yes, this type effectively removes serged seams, but that’s not why it’s called “surgical.”
Hi Diana. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
This was supposed to show how to sharpen a seam ripper.
Hi Berthenia. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I have watched this video because it implied it was showing how to sharpen a seam ripper – but it’s actually showing how to use a seam ripper. Not what it says on the tin.
Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sarah
The National Sewing Circle Video Membership
How can you stand to answer the same question so many times? It appears some people never look back at the questions and answers. Thank you for your address.
Sorry. I was trying to say, thank you for your patience.
I couldn’t see the steel blades clearly. Might white paper have made a better contrast? I prefer thin blades as they get under thread better than the thick blades.
Hello Paula,
Thank you for contacting us.
Your feedback has been forwarded to the proper department.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Is there a way to sharpen Zig Zag Scissors at home?
Hi Marie. Given the shape of pinking shears, without specialized sharpening equipment, the best way to sharpen them at home would be to fold a piece of aluminum foil in half several times until you have 4 to 6 layers, and then cut through the foil. This will help to sharpen them, however it will never return the blades to their original cutting quality.
Ashley
National Sewing Circle
This video doesn’t show how to sharpen the seamripper. It only shows how to use it.
Ticket 38200 How do you use steel wool to sharpen seam rippers?
Hi Dawn!
Here is what our experts had to say:
Hi,
You can run the steel wool along the inside curved edge of the seam ripper to sharpen it.
Cheers,
Ashley
This is supposed to be How to Sharpen your seam ripper.
Well I still don’t know how to sharpen a seam ripper! Unless I missed it somehow,
I know how to use it but not how to sharpen. Darn!
Hi Suzzanne. A seam ripper can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Jean
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Ticket 38724 Again, can you please demonstrate how to sharpen a seam ripper with steel wool and this bead reamer??? Thank you 😊
Hi Cindy!
This is what our experts had to share:
Hi,
To sharpen a seam ripper with a bead reamer, you simply run the reamer along the inside of the seam ripper (where it cuts the threads). This will eliminate any little ‘burs’ in the metal and help sharpen it. However, this method, much like other home sharpening methods, will not bring tools back to original sharpness.
Thank you!
I also have a white fabric eraser which I find works well also
I’ve looked all over for a bead reamer. JoAnn Fabrics has never heard of them. I guess I’ll
stick with the steel wool.
Hi Emily,
Thank you for contacting us. I found them on Amazon.
Sincerely,
Joan
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I have several seam rippers of different sizes. Did not know about the curved one. Thank you 😊.
Interesting that your Joanns never heard of them.
I bought a package of 4 bead reamers in the bead section of Joanns
Love sewing
You’ll likely find the heavyweight curved blade is actually a surgical scalpel, and the blade is replaceable. Careful with it, then.
Instead of weights or pins to hold pattern pieces i went to second hand store and bought knives and use them to hold patterns in place with fabric.
Please help me sharpen my tools.
Thank you.
Hello Diane!
What can we help with? Anything specific?
Thank you!
Jessica
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
My seam ripper is so dull it doesn’t
How can you sharpen scizzors at home?
Hey Marie!
Great question! I always find that tin foil works great for this. Just fold 1 piece in have so there are 2 layers, then cut through with your scissors 4 or 5 times. This should sharpen them right up!
Happy Sewing!
Madeline
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
How to sharpen seam rippers
Hello Patricia,
Thank you for contacting us. Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.
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Thanks!
Madeline
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I bought a group of sewing feet but I can’t seem to get them to work I have a brother 1500
Hi there Ann!
That’s a great question and we’d love to help!
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National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Never showed how to shArpen the seam ripper
Hi there! A seam ripper can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
-Ashley
National Sewing Circle
Numerous problem with ‘feed’; although seam length is at its highest on machine, it sew minute stiches.?????
Silly me. I thought your video was going to show HOW TO SHARPEN A SEAM RIPPER. Not how to use a seam ripper.
Watched the video, did not see how to sharpen seam rippers or did I miss something?
Hi there!
Great question! Here’s how to sharpen those seam rippers:
They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Sincerely,
Jessica
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I’m 78 years old and have been sewing for most of those years. My mother also sewed. However, I learned something new today. How to use a seam ripper. Thank you, Ashley ! ! ! ! !
I didn’t see where it showed how to sharpen a seam ripper.
Hi there!
A seam ripper can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.
Sincerely,
Jessica
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Nice work
I luv all these tips!! Need as many as i can get!!!!
Cool, thanks for the tip
Is there really a big difference in the sizing of sewing patterns and ready to wear? I wear a size 10 pant and a medium or 12-14 top and looking at the measurements on the pattern envelope I need to make a size 16 top and a 22 bottom. Am I doing something wrong? Haven’t done a muslin yet.
Dear Norma,
Thank you for your patience while I got the answer from the expert, here is the reply:
Hi,
No you are not doing anything wrong- and yes, some pattern measurements can be way different from ready to wear sizes.
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle
how can I adjust the lower loopers on my Singer Ultralock Serger with differential feed?
Dear Val,
Thank you for being patient while I got the expert reply for you. here it is:
Hi,
Unfortunately this is not something that I can answer and I recommend consulting the manufacturer.
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle
This is great initiative
I noticed how dull my seam ripper was the last time I used it. Thank you for the steel wool recommendation.
Can’t wait to see first block
Sharping seam ripper
Love it! These tips are great! I help pass them along! I also tell my friends where they can find you!
Thank you .
Thank you
Interested
What can we do about dropped rulers with corners knocked off?
Anxious to start receiving your questions and answers.
How do I cut a 11 7/8 square down to 11 1/2 and keep it looking sqaew
How do I cut a 11 7/8 square down to 11 1/2 and keep it looking squared and not looking lopsided? Thank you for your help… Anja, Carthage, MO
Dear Anja,
Thank you for your patience. In response to your question-
When doing this you would want to cut a small amount of fabric off of at least two of the side to keep the square looking square. Here is a great tutorial for squaring up blocks:
https://www.nationalquilterscircle.com/video/squaring-up-quilt-blocks-precision-008971/
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle
I love sewing
Would like to know how to sharpen seam ripper
NB Ticket 22816 How do you use steel wool to sharpen a seam ripper? Just move it back and forth over the blade?
Dear Jane,
Thank you for your patience. In response to your question-
Yes, that is correct. You simply move the blade back-and-forth over the steel wool.
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I realize that you were actually talking about steel wool, rather than a bead reamer, but it will be the same process with the steel wool.
I think it works better if you only go one direction, rather than back and forth. In other words, run the bead reamer from the base to the sharp edge, lift it up, and run it the same direction again. Repeat this a few times and then turn the seam ripper over and do the same thing on the other side.
Class
I was just looking for this answer.I have about a dozen of them in most of my craft station but all needs sharpening. I will try this suggestion. Thanks. Ada
Ticket 20346 No it doesn’t help. How do u use the bead reamer to sharpen the seam ripper
Dear Lynne,
Thank you for your patience. In regards to your question-
You would run the bead reamer along the edges of the seam ripper that need to be sharpened.
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
I’m making covers from oversized pillow slips so they stretch and hold on the end, for my daughter’s babies changing table. How do you sew on decorative stretchable elastic?
On decorative elastic, I would use a zig zag stitch. If the decoration goes all the way to the edge, you’d probably want to use a narrow stitch. Don’t know if you are beginner or experienced, so I’ll add; you do have to stretch the elastic while sewing unless you don’t need a stretchy fit. ie; a waistband or neck area or puffed sleeves would need a stretchy fit.
Thank you for your help.
Ticket 19608 Would you show how to use a bead reamer to sharpen a seam ripper.
Interesting about the bead reamer to sharpen a seam ripper, but wish it had gone into more depth. I’ll have to find a tutorial on YouTube now.
Ticket 19607 I have a question about sharpening! Is it possible to sharpen pinking shears? I have several very blunt pairs that won’t cut anything anymore!
Dear Judie,
Thank you for your patience. In regards to your question-
I do not know of a great way to sharpen these- other than cutting through aluminum foil. This sharpens them a small amount, though I’m not sure if it would be enough to fix yours if they are as dull as that.
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
Re: Cutting foil to sharpen scissors etc. I tried doing that, and nothing improved. Then I read “Fold aluminum foil several times, then cut.” That works.
If you can find someone who sharpens saw blades, they can usually sharpen piinking shears.
Pinking shears are usually returned to the manufacturer for sharpening. Check their website. My scissors guy won’t sharpen them.
Great information on sharpening seam ripper, I keep buying new ones thanks.
could you make a video on sharpening a seam ripper?
Thank you for the advice on how to sharpen the seam ripper I should be able to get a bead reamer from our local spotlight Store here in The town of Bundaberg in Australia thank you so much.
this sounds good i usually buy a new one
Please can I get a simple easy to understand e-book on how to make a pattern?
Please how do I sew a stretchy fabric on a manual butterfly machine?
hi i am looking for a pattern for a mans ballcap. hsb has some sentimental things that he would like to see made into a cap. of course, getting a pattern rather than winging it would make it look much better. thank you. i have looked at conventional pattern books without success.
If you go to a sporting goods store, you can find a rubber-covered form to use when you wash a baseball cap. That will be perfect to use as a pattern/form for the baseball cap!
For a baseball cap pattern, try Pinterest.
I have found that when I use the sharpener for my kitchen knifes (the round long steel things) and run it over it carefully it helps. Some of those sharpeners are made of some ceramic material and I feel that works even better. I sharpen my scissors with that too. I use it as if I was trying to cut the sharpener in half and go back and forth doing that after than I cut some foil and my scissors are perfect again.
I recently borrowed an apron from a friend. I want to draw it so I have my own pattern, but need guidance. I would be happy with tutorials or an online class. Please help me so I can have a pattern and give my friend her pattern.
Thanks so much!
I use some old ugly fabric or cheap non adhesive interfacing. I either draw or cut around the pattern. I do it with patterns I will use multiple times.
Great idea. I’m in the middle of starting my search of cotton fabric stash and will see which one is enough. I will need to make gathers, I don’t remember which top or bottom thread to pull??
Hi Betty: I borrowed an apron from a friend and simply pinned it to some craft paper, then ran a pencil around the apron to make my own pattern. It came out beautifully. I then made sure that all the lines were straight. Voila!
You can do a search online or on YouTube for “how to make an apron”. That said, aprons are fairly simple to copy & make your own draft of an existing one. You don’t say what style it is, so a bibbed one is typical, so try this: Study the apron to determine it’s separate components & treat each part by itself (bib, sash/ waistband & main body & straps (neck/ waist). If the skirt is gathered at the waistband, you can generally assume its bottom edge is the same width. Take each part & fold in half (this is where you will place it on the fold of your fabric), then place on tissue or butcher’s paper. Mark that edge to indicate where the fold will be (this is typically the straightest edge of a pattern). Run your pen around the outside, tracing the shape of that piece. Repeat this step 1/2″ away from the original lines, to allow for 1/2″ seams. Do the same w/ all the other pieces. Be sure to mark directly on the paper, any measurements as you go & make indications as to what edges need to match up to another. This will also help you if you decide to alter the size of your pattern later. Instead of a pattern for straps, just make a note to the width & length, how many & where to attach them. I hope this is clear & that I haven’t left out any steps.
I use brown craft paper (like paper bags), white freezer/ butcher’s paper or even wide rolls of tissue paper (gift wrap) for copying patterns. The tissue paper is more delicate (but you can see thru it), so if you want a permanent pattern to last forever, you could also use light-to-medium weight Pellon stabilizer (non-fusible).
Good tip , thankyou
How do I take out the bulk when making a hem and going around corners as my machine is not able to sew through them?
Hi, Lesley. Here is a great video showing how to remove some bulk and hem around a corner: https://www.nationalsewingcircle.com/video/sewing-corners-with-a-double-fold-hem-009648/
Just something ideas for you to consider when your machine balks at sewing through bulky seams…
Is your machine very modern? Sadly, if so, modern machines simply don’t have the “horsepower” needed and they have plastic gears which can wear out with too much heavy use. To compensate for this, you can try a larger needle (make sure it’s new) and “help” your machine along by manually turning the balance wheel as you go through thicker areas.
Secondly you might wish to consider buying an inexpensive vintage machine, something pre-1975. A old Singer or Kenmore would be a good choice. They can be found for modest prices on Mercari, Goodwill Online (I found a good one there once for under $10 plus shipping). eBay will be more expensive but if you find the right machine and a reputable seller, it often can be worth it. These machines have stronger motors, often 1amp or more, and theirs gears are metal, not plastic. There are video’s all over You Tube on how to clean, oil and lube them; it’s easy. I have an easy to use, 67-year old machine that cost me around $25. It weighs a ton, is ugly, and only straight stitch, but with the correct size needle, it will go through 8 layers of thick canvas with ease. I use it for all sorts of heavy-duty sewing as it’s a workhorse. Plus it’s a cinch to take care of. Just my “two-cents”. You need to do what’s right for you.
I just got a foot off the internet for sewing bais tape on and no instruction with it …..help
Hi Linda. I apologize that we do not have a video on that, however I have found several other tutorials. I do not know what brand of machine/foot you are using, but this should give you the general idea of how to use it. Here is both a video tutorial as well as a step by step photo tutorial.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c00kHeGpYEw
[https://www.bing.com/th?id=OVP.V3797378652e7b5516d8a283831e636cd&pid=Api]<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c00kHeGpYEw>
How to use a Bias Binding Foot<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c00kHeGpYEw>
http://www.youtube.com
Tutorial brought to you by Crafty Mummy Murray For more tips and craft ideas visit http://www.craftymummymurray.com
http://seekatesew.com/sewing-101-how-to-use-the-binding-foot/
[http://seekatesew.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/bindingfoot2.jpg]<http://seekatesew.com/sewing-101-how-to-use-the-binding-foot/>
sewing 101: how to use the binding foot – see kate sew<http://seekatesew.com/sewing-101-how-to-use-the-binding-foot/>
seekatesew.com
I have a foot fetish apparently. Not the weird kind, the sewing machine foot kind. This is my recent addition: the binding foot! It is amazing. You can use this foot …
Hope this helps!
The site where you bought the binding foot might also have a demo.
Very helpful, I wondered how to make mind useful again.
Very good information! I have several blunt ones that I was wondering how to sharpen.
I didn’t realise you could sharpen seam rippers,I’m going to be busy sharpening all my blunt ones.Thanks
great information I will pass along to my non internet sewing friends
I am looking for a pattern for a golf cart blanket. It fits over the arms of the seat on the cart.
After several internet searches I have been unable to find any sewing patterns for a golf cart blanket, though there are several places that sell them.
However, I think this is something that you could design your own pattern for. Not being a golfer, I do not know if all golf carts are the same- but I would first start by measuring the length and width of the golf cart seat. To those measurements I would add at least 6 to 9 inches, depending on how much of the blanket you want to hang over the edges and down the front of the seat. So for example, if your seat measured 24″ wide by 48″ inches long you would want to cut a rectangle of fabric that was around 30-33″ wide by 54-57″ long. From there you would simply cut a slit in the fabric where the arms of the cart would need to fit. Start with just a straight cut and then depending on how thick the arms are you can cut more fabric away. From the pictures I was looking at it seemed that you will probably need to cut a 3-5″ opening to get the blanket down over the arms. Once that has been cut and you have tested to see if the blanket lays flat on the seat and fits over the arms you can finish all of the raw edges. I would recommend doing this with a binding. A double fold binding can be attached around the entire perimeter of the blanket and bias binding can be used in the smaller cut out sections for the arms.
Hopefully this helps!
My husband has found that a bathroom rug works well. It is warmer and softer.
You can also purchase an over sized towel to use for a blanket.That way all edges accept for the arm holes are already bound. Throw in washer when needed.
When sewing a tshirt quilt. I catch the batting in all seams , is it necessary to tack the middle?
Hi, Barbara. Do you mean that after you have finished piecing all of your t shirts together you layer it with batting and a backing fabric and then stitch in the ditch over all of the seams? If so, yes it is fine to leave it at this amount of quilting if you like. However, typically quilting is usually done no more than a few inches away from itself. This helps provide more stability and ensures that there won’t be areas where the layers separate from each other. If it is possible to add more quilting without taking away from the t shirt designs I would.
The label on your batting should tell you how far apart your quilting should be. Some older battings say 2-4″, but today they’re typically 4-10″, especially if it has a scrim. To solve the need for more quilting, you could go around any picture/ words on the t-shirts & if plain, a simple motif by hand or machine would work, too.
You never answered the question. How do you sharpen with steel wool, and how does that “seam reamer work? I think the original questioner would like these more complete answers.
Hi, Berthenia. To sharpen a seam ripper with steel wool you simply wrap the wool around a small stiletto, crochet hook, awl or another small strong tool. You then run the wool along the cutting edges of the seam ripper several times to sharpen it.
To use a seam ripper, you carefully insert the tool into a seam and then push the seam ripper along the seam- cutting all of the threads. Some seam rippers come with a small ball or other protector on one end, typically the shorter of the two ends. If your seam ripper has this, this is the side that should be inserted into the seam. The protector will help you from accidentally cutting the fabric.
I actually adivse you to place the seam ripper with the ball point on the outside of the seam you’re ripping, not the inside. This actually helps keep the ripper from ripping the fabric. There are videos to show this method and it rips the seam in under one minute.
Great tips
The ball goes inside of the seam, not on top. It’s used to keep the 2 pieces of fabric separated so that you are cutting only the threads, not the material. If it’s on top, it does nothing and you risk tearing your fabric with the pointy end if that’s the part that’s inside. The ball goes on the inside 🙂
Been sewing since I was very young – 7 yrs old. Never heard this before. Brilliant! Will try this.
The seam ripper is very effective using it with the ball under the seam to be removed. The ball glides along the fabric very nicely and cuts multiple stitches in a gradual motion. Not all seams are appropriate for this approach. Give your seam ripper a chance both ways.
Thank you for the info, I will try it.
I agree with Customer Service re putting the small ball end inside the seam. Before I was told that I did occasionally cut the fabric. Since I put the ball inside, I never cut the fabric. Thanks Customer Service.
place the seam ripper with the ball point on the outside of the seam you’re ripping. Someone should reread answer.
Tomato, tomahto; potato, potahto – to each her (or his) own way. I’ve been sewing for 60 years and done it both ways. I’ve learned that it’s like a good kitchen knife. The sharper the better. A sharp kitchen knife is less likely to cut you than a dull one because the dull one will slip. Same with a seam ripper, a sharp one is less likely to cut your fabric regardless of which way you use it. A dull one will need to be forced and that’s when it will cut your fabric.
How do you sharpen a zig zag scissor please
Hello Mureeda,
Thank you for contacting us.
Aside from sending these to be professionally sharpened, the quick way to do this at home would be to fold several layers of aluminum foil together and then cut through the layers of the foil several times.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
For ripping an entire seam, or a longer portion of one, I put the ball end into the seam. If I just want to rip a stitch or, as in ripping out a quilt seam, every 5-7 stitches in order to pull the seam out by pulling the thread that isn’t cut, I use the sharp end.
Thank you for the details! I’m putting together 250 sewing kits for Operation ChristmasChild boxes. I think I could afford space & $ for 250 pieces of steel wool!
What did you put in you sewing kits? I am trying to make 50 kits to send to Africa and I am not sure what to put in each kit. I have a meter of fabric, scissors, pins, safety pins, needles, thread, some elastic and I don’t know what else to put. Your help would be appreciated. Thanks, Lynn
When I put sewing kits together, I always include something like a small, inexpensive cross stitch project. You might also include something to embellish a project like ric rac.
As for the sewing kits, don’t forget a tape measure and a seam ripper.
I would add a thimble, bandages, some extra buttons, snaps, and hooks and eyes
Thanks for the detailed explaniation how to sharpen the seam ripper – will give it a try when I get down to my sewing room. I hate to keep buying new ones just becasue of a dulled blade!
I tried steel wool because that’s what I had I sort of scrubbed in the area of blade, but in the end I just bought anew seam ripper. They’re pretty cheap.
This is a good idea. I was wondering about sharpening a seam ripper and the bead reamer tool sounds perfect. Thank you!
So how do you sharpen one? Details please
Dear Judith,
Thank you for your patience. In response to your question-
Seam rippers can be sharpened by running either steel wool or a bead reamer along the edge.
We’d love to have you be a part of our community. We are convinced you will enjoy the benefits of becoming a member and having access to the best instructional how to videos and professional tips. We would like to offer you a special promotion for your first-year membership.
https://go.nationalsewingcircle.com/c16977
Cheers,
Ashley
National Sewing Circle
This video showed me “How to Use” a seam ripper. I clicked on how to “sharpen a seam ripper”
Hi Prudence,
The answer to your question was provided in the text prior to the video:
“A seam ripper can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads.”
so how do you sharpen a eam ripper
I use a finger nail file!!! Not the small tan ones,the big ones!!🥰
To understand the motions one uses to sharpen a curved edge, look on You Tube for videos on sharpening tools like shovels with a curved edge and so on. You get a better look on a larger object, seeing the direction and method of sharpening. One always pushes the file in a sweeping motion away from the main bulk of the tool, swiping it the sharp edge, lifting the file away as you sweep off the sharpened edge. I use small round “needle” files, similar to a bead reamer, available at any hardware store. Larger tools like shovel take more force than a tiny seam ripper. Easy does it, and don’t go beyond a few swipes from each side of the ripper blade. test and see if you got it right. Sharpening tools (if you are inexperienced) is a skill that only takes a small amount of practice to learn. Watching someone in a video go through the motions helps a lot.
PattyP this is the most helpful response to the question of sharpening a seam ripper that I’ve ever read. Thank you.
PattyP, JEM said it perfectly. Your response was exactly the information I came here for. Thank you.
Patti thank you for explaining how to sharpen a seam ripper
How do you sharpen a seam ripper?
Never showed how to sharpen
Hi Cynthia. They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
VERY MISLEADING TITLE TO VIDEO. she showed how to use NOT how to sharpen! After seeing this misleading video I would never subscribe because I’m afraid I would never get the correct answer to the title.
Hello Lauren,
They can be sharpened with steel wool or by using a tool called a bead reamer, which looks like a small rounded file. These can be found at most craft stores that carry beads. Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded your comment to the proper department. We value your opinion, and it will help with the development of our online streaming community. We will continue to listen and work hard for your complete satisfaction.
Sincerely,
Sarah
National Sewing Circle Video Membership
It’s been over a year and it’s still the same video.
I also couldn’t imagine using a seam ripper to cut every 5th stitch in my seam! That would take forever. I wish she had shown the proper way to use a seam ripper