Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Bridget Early February 22, 2013 at 10:01am

I hand sew all of my hats and like seeing binding where you can not see the stitching.    If you are going to sew binding on with a machine, be sure to swirl it to fit the curve.  Pin it in place and use your presser foot as a guide. Sewing curves becomes easier with practice.  Use scraps of fabric that you have cut with curves and practice sewing scrap binding until you get the hang of it.

Permalink Reply by Cynthia G Peacock February 23, 2013 at 7:46am

Ditto on what Bridget said.  I would add if you are going to machine sew, use an older mechanical (not electronic) machine, and use the hand wheel when you are on curves.  With the needle in the needle down position, lift the pressure foot, and turn the hat. Slow and steady wins this race.  If you hit a wire with an electronic sewing machine, you will undoubtedly end up at the sewing machine repair store.  

You can also try using clear thread.  I don't like sewing with it, but some folks like it.  

I like doing it by hand also.  I have school-age kids (probably a little older than yours).  I do hand work when I'm watching them to make sure they do their homework, etc.  

And yes, I agree, Elaine has built a wonderful site!  

Cindy 

Permalink Reply by Aoife Kirwan February 24, 2013 at 5:39am

I hand sew everything. I prefer the barely perceptible stitches.

Permalink Reply by 1fi9iq6yxs6ig February 24, 2013 at 6:58am

Hi Nono, as others have said, go very slow - and hand stitching is the slowest! 

I will usually hand stitch binding.  But if machining, and for fabric pattern hats, I  press everything first, pin and tack before stitching.  The basic rules of sewing apply for hats too, so maybe this tutorial on attaching bias to curves will help. 

http://thehabygoddess.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/tutorial-adding-bias-...

Hope this helps x

Permalink Reply by Cynthia G Peacock February 24, 2013 at 7:01am

Yes, a high quality steam iron is worth its weight in gold!

Permalink Reply by Nono Kish February 24, 2013 at 7:46am

Thanks for all the replies. I have been trying to sew on bias with machine on one side and then pull it over the edge, fold under then hand sew with a slip stitch on the other side. It looks nice and neat when done properly. I have a digital sewing machine, the problem is most likely me and the machine, will keep practicing. I agree the hand sewing looks better on different binding like petersham. I'm currently making hatinators with a satin bind. Will check out vid. Thanks

Permalink Reply by 1fi9iq6yxs6ig February 24, 2013 at 7:55am

Satin can be a pain - so slippery.  Have you tried covering your edges with cotton bias first?  Just fold it over, press out wrinkles, and zig zag in place.  For me, it gives satin/silk fabrics something to grip, so they sit better.

Permalink Reply by Nono Kish February 24, 2013 at 8:42am

Thanks, I'm using a crinoline bind, havnt tried it with the cotton will give it a go, thanks