Thread and Fabric

Sewing has always been about thread and fabrics.  Sometimes the joining of the two is for garment construction, home decor, or simply artistic expression.  The thread can be the show-stopper, or the fabric choice can be the main feature.  What was once done all by hand (labor intensive and time consuming) can now be done with our sewing machines.   Machines vary in their stitch capabilities.  Basic utility stitches, decorative stitches, or machine embroidery stitches can all be used in the creation of our special projects.  All machines produce wonderful results if you know how to use them effectively.

A machine I like best is my Janome MC 15000.  This machine combines sewing, quilting, and machine embroidery all in one.  No matter what I decide to make for a project, my machine can aid me in producing amazing results.  It is actually fun to use!  No long labor intensive moments or extremely time consuming process.

The other thing that has changed over the years are the threads we use.  The choice of threads is staggering.  We decide the type, thickness, stitch quality, color and so much more for our designs based on our thread type.  Some threads are better suited for the bobbin and some are for the needle.  Mixing and matching what function we are using in our design process determines the thread type and the thread placement.

Color speaks to me before anything else.  Pattern repeat also catches my eye.  I often mix sewing (piecing), free motion stitching (thread painting, quilting) and machine embroidery all in one project.  A quilt is the ideal place for me to experiment with the stitches built into my machine.  Even the most basic machine can accomplish a complex look with the right thread and fabric combination.

My advice to other sewing enthusiasts is to just spend some time playing.  Use your machine to experiment with threads and stitch options to create something that makes you say ‘Wow!”.   Small projects are ideal places to start.  Try playing with nothing more than a placemat or even a hot pad to start.  Once you gain confidence with your stitching you can progress to larger projects.

Don’t forget about the various feet that come with the machine.  Choosing the perfect foot for the project will ensure the best stitch quality.  Janome makes all kinds of feet for the machines to help us with our special projects.  Using Janome products in tandem with our Janome machines ensures the best stitch quality.

Most of all –  Enjoy the process of creativity.  Relax and focus on the thread and fabrics.  Feel the textures and process the emotions you feel with the color choices.  The experience is unique to you.