Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Watch For It Wednesday! #48

Happy Wednesday Everyone!

I wanted to talk today about sewing on layouts. I thought I would go over some of the basics of stitching on scrapbook pages. It is a great way to add texture and dimension to your pages. It also adds a bit of whimsy and fun.

First, these are the CottageCutz dies I am showcasing today.


I recommend that you practice on some scrap paper first. You are going to need to adjust the stitch tension and stitch length depending on your machine. I find for me, that a medium stitch tension works best and a long stitch length. The other thing to remember is the speed at which you sew. If you sew slowly, you will run the risk of the stitches not catching. If you sew too fast, the thread seems to get clumped up in knots on the backside.

As far as what type of paper to use, I have sewn on cardstock, pattern paper and die cuts. They all work fine. You also don't need any fancy kind of thread, just regular sewing thread.

Now that we have gone over some of the basics, on to the fun stuff. What can you do with the sewing on your pages?

Tip #1-A great idea is to stitch around your photo or entire layout to frame it.
I used both a straight stitch and zig-zag stitch around my photo, this adds interest and playfulness.


Tip #2-Stitching is a great way to adhere paper or items to your pages.
I used a straight stitch to attach my CottageCutz Heart Doilies to my page. This gives the Doilies dimension because they lift on the sides.


This is another example of using sewing to adhere items.
I used zig-zag stitches to attach my journaling strips to my page.


Tip #3-You can create accents with sewing.
I stitched a heart using both a straight and zig-zag stitch to frame my CottageCutz Key.


I hope this will inspire you to try sewing on your layouts.
Have a great day!
Karen

7 comments:

Noelle Reese said...

Thanks so much! I have only sewn once and I loved it but your directions to do more than a square LOL sure sound do-able!

annb said...

That is great! I've only sewn by hand. Guess, I need to dust off my sewing machine and give it a whirl. Thanks for info!!

Ruth Ellen said...

Great tutorial Karen!! I can't wait to get my sewing machine back out. Thanks for the inspiration!!

Dragonlady said...

What a coincidence, I got my sewing machine out today, realised I didn't have a clue how to use it and put it away again. My head is not straight enough at the moment to follow instructions!!!
Thanks for your tips.

Hugs Ali x

DonnaMundinger said...

Beautiful, but I'm still such a chicken! One of these days. LOL xxD

CreatedbyKay said...

Great tutorial Karen, I haven't sewn on my LO's but I really love the look. I keep thinking...someday... TFS!

Sandy said...

Karen, thanks for the tips. I have been hesitant to try stitching on my cards but after reading your blog today I think I'll try it this weekend. Have some sewing to finish up so will be at the machine anyways! Have a great day!