It's Finally Here!

If you never own another heirloom sewing book, you HAVE to have this one! A~Z of Heirloom Sewing is the 20th book in this series and the publishers have outdone themselves! We've sold out twice and are currently waiting on our third shipment. We have a waiting list....sign up today!

From the publisher: "Filled with over 840 step-by-step photographs and detailed instructions, this indispensable reference guide will enable you to make the best possible use of your sewing machine.

~Discover machine and hand sewing techniques, from basic to advanced
~Choose the right fabrics, laces and trims
~Learn more about the correct tools and equipment
~Achieve a perfect finish with handy hints and tips from experienced sewers"

(Believe me, the illustrations are fabulous! I'm a visual learner and have already used mine several times in the last two weeks!)

We're already signing up for the classes that were posted yesterday so if you're interested, go ahead and call! Spring is the perfect time to learn a new sewing skill.

Happy Sewing!

New Class Schedule

Tatting (Teacher: Amy Young)

Dates~Monday, Thurday: April 12, 15, 19, 22
Time~6:00-7:30pm
Cost~ $40.00 plus supplies (purchase at The Smock Shoppe)


Beginning Smocking (Teacher: Tami Stanford)

Dates~Thursday, April 22,29, May 6
Time~6:30-8:30
Cost~$45.00 (includes kit)


Sewing Construction~Shorts/Pants (Teacher: Tami Stanford)

Date~Monday, May 17
Time~6:00-9:00 pm
Cost~$30.00 plus cost of pattern/fabric to be purchased at The Smock Shoppe


Classes fill up quickly! Please call the shop to sign-up (334-793-8233). You will also need to come by the shop to pay your class fee to hold your spot. We look forward to hearing from you!

Just A Reminder...

Don't forget the Winter Sale going on now through Saturday, March 20. Corduroy, Christmas, and other select fabrics are 40-50% off! You will also find Christmas appliques, buttons, and ribbons on sale. Discontinued patterns are 50% off, as well as back issues of some of your favorite sewing magazines. One more special deal, and it's a big one: Christmas smocking plates are 50% OFF! This is an excellent time to stock up for next year.



Happy Sewing!

Twirl Skirt and Seasonal Fabrics

Here's the cute Sew Sensible Twirl Skirt pattern that I posted a couple of weeks ago:

I used two precious Riley Blake fabrics. When I chose these fabrics to make the sample for the shop, we had plenty of each. Unfortunately, we are don't either now......this a wonderful example of why you should buy it when you see it! Basics (ginghams, solid twills, batiste, fairy fabric) are easily restocked but prints like these are generally seasonal pieces and limited in their availability. Of course, everyone wants these now that this sample is hanging in the shop! We've called and can't get anymore.

Another good example of getting it when you see it in the shop: I friend sent me a message today about a bishop kit she saw that Sally had done. It sold yesterday!

Don't forget about The Handmade Dress Trunk Show; it will only be here a couple of more days. Also for more Sew Sensible patterns....precious tops!

See you soon and happy sewing!

WINTER CLEARANCE SALE

Now, through Saturday, March 20th, all corduroys and Christmas fabrics are on sale to make room for the many new bolts of Spring and Summer fabrics arriving. You will want to look for other specials in the shop when you visit too!

We look forward to seeing you soon. Remember Easter is April 4th! We aren't taking anymore orders for Easter but it's not too late for you to get started on an outfit for the sweet little one in your life!

Happy Sewing!

MARY'S HELPFUL HINTS



Phyllis asked me this week about how to convert an opening from a zipper to a button opening.


The conversion can easily be made following this procedure. First, find the center back line on the pattern. Next, you will need to add 1/2 inch to the pattern beyond the center back line. Draw a line parallel to the center back line at this measurement; this will be your new fold line. Now, measure 1 inch from this new line and draw a line parallel to the new fold line. This creates a facing for the overlap. This will be the line that you place on the selvage when cutting out the pattern piece.

When the fabric is pressed back on the fold line, a facing will be created that will allow for reinforcing the button holes. In a larger size that may require a larger button, you will increase these measurements from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch to the fold line and 1 1/4 inch to the selvage line to allow for the wider button.


The same method can be used to convert a front opening shirt to a back opening or the reverse to a back opening.

I wish I had a white paper bag to draw a diagram. Many of you are used to my sending you home with directions on your sack!

Happy Sewing!


Mary