tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3882569376559251302024-03-13T08:36:53.775-07:00Sewing HacksAlice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-15156940368435704712020-02-10T13:30:00.004-08:002020-02-10T13:30:46.799-08:00 Hack for Broken Zipper PullOne of the designers I work for needed these pants for a photo shoot but the exposed zipper pull broke off with a ragged edge. Since it's pleather can't replace the zipper or even take out the zipper stops to replace the pull because the needle holes will show, so I came up with this clever solution using matching pleather.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80tdWnAZiMg/XkHLfZVehLI/AAAAAAAABZo/Do67FusHk3QvFjaumYS3qK9p093wfpdXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/zip%2Bpull.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80tdWnAZiMg/XkHLfZVehLI/AAAAAAAABZo/Do67FusHk3QvFjaumYS3qK9p093wfpdXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/zip%2Bpull.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-86037256926244501562018-07-26T11:40:00.003-07:002018-07-26T11:40:39.211-07:00Good use for cheap thread that breaks easilyI bought a giant cone of thread from a discount fabric store for $1. It turned out to be very brittle and breaks easily, couldn't use it in the serger at all. But then I had to make several muslins (toiles) whatever you want to call it, mock ups is my favorite term, for a client. And I found a use for it, it breaks easily so I just rip the pieces apart easily. There is always a silver lining in every cloud.Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-62843476840292992362018-05-06T20:13:00.000-07:002018-05-06T20:13:04.667-07:00Reversible Knit TankI've been obsessed with reversible clothes for the last year or so. I go fabric shopping flipping all the fabric over to see what's on the other side. Most of the fabric came from Joanns, Nichole Miller has a line of polyester stretchy shiny knits and recently they had some dry-fit type workout stuff also reversible. <br />
<br />
I started out with no sleeves because they would be easiest. Most of the time I just use one row of zigzag and one row of straight stitch on a very narrow seam to mimic the look of flat-locking. Edges were serged. One side is silvey the other a light grey but the photo shows less contrast. Also made it V-neck/ scoop for maximum versatility.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4BioH9_wu4/Wu_DKx-_b7I/AAAAAAAABIM/jVgNxFlA3O01HKMityU9eELKqL1ZdrC8gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-3187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4BioH9_wu4/Wu_DKx-_b7I/AAAAAAAABIM/jVgNxFlA3O01HKMityU9eELKqL1ZdrC8gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-3187.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CnehGg11g8w/Wu_DK3bZLiI/AAAAAAAABII/mxhljhZ85vsD5ZjlNgLX9quO1shUaxLDwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-3186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CnehGg11g8w/Wu_DK3bZLiI/AAAAAAAABII/mxhljhZ85vsD5ZjlNgLX9quO1shUaxLDwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-3186.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-44891630374333323992018-04-30T21:01:00.002-07:002018-04-30T21:01:24.486-07:00Adding Pocket to Surplice DressI am obsessed with pockets, as you can probably tell from my previous posts. I have allergies and always carry a kleenex with me. I don't want to sneeze all over everything. So the problem with fitted knit dresses is where to add the pocket. I decided this surplice dress has ruching on one side and that's a good place to hide a small pocket. I used fabric usually used for slips in a slightly lighter color (didn't find an exact match.) Made an envelope type pocket and sewed it along the top stitching.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0kkHB8W8vo/Wufl4SVW4dI/AAAAAAAABHs/jKWi4ccrUUoG8X6Ne0RTksFkMMdoTen8ACLcBGAs/s1600/surplice.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0kkHB8W8vo/Wufl4SVW4dI/AAAAAAAABHs/jKWi4ccrUUoG8X6Ne0RTksFkMMdoTen8ACLcBGAs/s320/surplice.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And now you can't see it, and the ruching should hide any bumps form the contents.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jt9V3pGNA4Y/Wufl4SWcRaI/AAAAAAAABHw/-DJdNAmK3ow0JRWGCanHtSqbsQqlIy_ngCEwYBhgL/s1600/surplice%2Bpocket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jt9V3pGNA4Y/Wufl4SWcRaI/AAAAAAAABHw/-DJdNAmK3ow0JRWGCanHtSqbsQqlIy_ngCEwYBhgL/s320/surplice%2Bpocket.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-5852448156432646612018-04-22T18:16:00.001-07:002018-04-22T18:16:14.708-07:00Waist Band WalletSaw a discussion of how to carry things when running/traveling etc. I have some very stretchy fabric and decided to make a loop with some holes in it for charge cards and passport. I just used a 7.5" inch tall fabric with the width of my waist. I purposely opened the passport part slightly to show whats in it. I didn't use a zipper because the fabric is so stretchy that I left an opening about 1/2" narrower than the passport so it can't fall out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iX4Z_m8lo4U/Wt0z0x0Y48I/AAAAAAAABHU/2rGlxwfUt-YZfU5JqOC9CrJbsIFhTHYKACLcBGAs/s1600/waist%2Bbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="1600" height="92" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iX4Z_m8lo4U/Wt0z0x0Y48I/AAAAAAAABHU/2rGlxwfUt-YZfU5JqOC9CrJbsIFhTHYKACLcBGAs/s320/waist%2Bbag.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-81951149624705075852018-04-03T14:51:00.002-07:002018-04-03T14:51:11.323-07:00My Fashion Design Diploma<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqsMnaflWVs/WsP3O3OuBYI/AAAAAAAABGY/kQj0HIyYeZoYZcHxkMSO6HfV9r67zOUjgCLcBGAs/s1600/Diploma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqsMnaflWVs/WsP3O3OuBYI/AAAAAAAABGY/kQj0HIyYeZoYZcHxkMSO6HfV9r67zOUjgCLcBGAs/s320/Diploma.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-12302009404122365062018-02-27T08:57:00.000-08:002018-02-27T08:57:12.786-08:00Separating zipper won't stay closeThe jacket has a separating zipper but the bottom of the zipper had a part that broke off in the wash and now doesn't stay together when zipped.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P8m8qK0QlDI/WpWNEH0u2dI/AAAAAAAABFI/6uGxLnCxDVoLbjWF0lqa9X5buaEFVcldgCLcBGAs/s1600/Separatin%2Bzip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P8m8qK0QlDI/WpWNEH0u2dI/AAAAAAAABFI/6uGxLnCxDVoLbjWF0lqa9X5buaEFVcldgCLcBGAs/s320/Separatin%2Bzip.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
I would normally replace the zipper but it's a down jacket and I don't want all the feathers to come out so I just added a hook and eye and now it stays shut when I am wearing it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sr5y6MCyBt4/WpWMsIIUMEI/AAAAAAAABFQ/8StE_q5gXko24S1U5GBGP0xM0X5CbwiQwCEwYBhgL/s1600/separating%2Bzipper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sr5y6MCyBt4/WpWMsIIUMEI/AAAAAAAABFQ/8StE_q5gXko24S1U5GBGP0xM0X5CbwiQwCEwYBhgL/s320/separating%2Bzipper.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-6979627832280823102018-02-20T22:56:00.004-08:002018-02-20T22:56:56.310-08:00Making matching color snapsI am making a wrap with snaps and I wanted the snaps to be as unobtrusive as possible, so I got plastic snaps and colored some with a sharpie. The color doesn't rub off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pBL3UMp-OLQ/Wo0X-jzhajI/AAAAAAAABEg/WMcu_qxh-44yBq7VKvoBWHfJkZrz2xL8QCLcBGAs/s1600/snaps.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="935" height="232" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pBL3UMp-OLQ/Wo0X-jzhajI/AAAAAAAABEg/WMcu_qxh-44yBq7VKvoBWHfJkZrz2xL8QCLcBGAs/s320/snaps.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-4106787966186332272017-12-06T21:12:00.001-08:002017-12-06T21:12:41.638-08:00Bobbin StorageI was tired of looking for the right color bobbin for sewing. I have lots so I organized them by sticking a small dowel (from Daiso) through them and holding them in place with binder clips on both ends. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n0bjVWN_TfU/WijNtBD-w3I/AAAAAAAABBg/GJK5BpYfWT8F8Oyut98c56M06fGWJ2iBQCLcBGAs/s1600/Bobbin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="747" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n0bjVWN_TfU/WijNtBD-w3I/AAAAAAAABBg/GJK5BpYfWT8F8Oyut98c56M06fGWJ2iBQCLcBGAs/s320/Bobbin.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-77610987958750778312017-11-13T13:25:00.001-08:002017-11-13T13:25:29.693-08:00Felted Bag from Tapestry ScrapsI've been working for a designer who is making jackets from handwoven tapestries. Each tapestry is enough for only one jacket and depending on size, there is quite a lot of leftover fabric. I hate waste so I took some scraps felted them, sew them together, and felt again in the washer and dryer. I like the way it turned out, there is a diagonal seam in the bag on each side but not obvious because of the felting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymb9D0YtWNs/WgoNrhOT0uI/AAAAAAAABAw/zCT9I4UNHvgsKogHn1A7d1cVpxZ9qGYKACLcBGAs/s1600/bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1335" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymb9D0YtWNs/WgoNrhOT0uI/AAAAAAAABAw/zCT9I4UNHvgsKogHn1A7d1cVpxZ9qGYKACLcBGAs/s320/bag.JPG" width="267" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_246715021"></span><span id="goog_246715022"></span><br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-11089284399456403872017-07-21T15:29:00.002-07:002017-07-21T15:29:16.550-07:00Adding Buckle to Longchamp BackpackI needed a bag for my European trip but the last time I used a backpack purse, I was pursued by many pickpockets. One pair even had my bag unzipped and started opening my wallet, luckily a local lady alerted me. But I still want a backpack, my shoulders hurt form a regular shoulder travel bag. <br />
<br />
I chose this bag because it's impossible to unzip with the snap down without me noticing. But I also wanted to be able to carry it around in museums so I decided to sew a clip to the back pack straps. The backpack can be worn as a purse albeit upside down using the new buckle, the extra strap can be buckled around my waist and take the weight off my shoulders and lastly, I can buckle the bag to my seat back or armrest when I am in a restaurant. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5-fxbFVWLI/WXJ_n4zNqZI/AAAAAAAAA-o/sWzmR8nNA8U76Y226Dw_EuP88WUtXyYpwCLcBGAs/s1600/longchamp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e5-fxbFVWLI/WXJ_n4zNqZI/AAAAAAAAA-o/sWzmR8nNA8U76Y226Dw_EuP88WUtXyYpwCLcBGAs/s640/longchamp.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-56338773632561650872017-07-08T04:56:00.000-07:002017-10-16T18:12:22.995-07:00Converting Travel Vest to Travel SkirtMy husband had this travel vest for 10+ years and it still has its store tags.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xBYhtrpjig0/WWDEVVtf8fI/AAAAAAAAA8w/euC9Q6UcS1cMP_g_z1YoNF-wEQb9Co3vgCLcBGAs/s1600/vest%2Bskirt1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1194" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xBYhtrpjig0/WWDEVVtf8fI/AAAAAAAAA8w/euC9Q6UcS1cMP_g_z1YoNF-wEQb9Co3vgCLcBGAs/s320/vest%2Bskirt1.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was going to donate it, but I have been trying to be more ecological about clothing and have been altering clothes rather than buying new so here is a new challenge, what to make. I can't alter it to fit me as a vest without cutting off most of the pockets but it's wide enough for my hips, so a skirt.<br />
<br />
I cut off the shoulders along the ruler.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n6sjMVXmQb8/WWDFI975MuI/AAAAAAAAA80/4L6i8qodzV8eNqg379O4cdToqlpeg-ehACLcBGAs/s1600/vest%2Bskirt2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1292" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n6sjMVXmQb8/WWDFI975MuI/AAAAAAAAA80/4L6i8qodzV8eNqg379O4cdToqlpeg-ehACLcBGAs/s320/vest%2Bskirt2.JPG" width="258" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2BnH18E5XCA/WWDGltfHmfI/AAAAAAAAA9M/FnQcONkQCMQ_7t0unTWZIaw6qfVDTSIdQCLcBGAs/s1600/vest%2Bskirt%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1358" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2BnH18E5XCA/WWDGltfHmfI/AAAAAAAAA9M/FnQcONkQCMQ_7t0unTWZIaw6qfVDTSIdQCLcBGAs/s320/vest%2Bskirt%2B4.JPG" width="271" /></a><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And added some fabric from the shoulders to patch the V-neck and make the waist straight and used grossgrain ribbon as waistband facing. Also sewed along the sides removing the armhole fabric and shaping the skirt. Note that there is a waist drawstring in the back of the vest/skirt. I took the string out and left the casing as a design detail. Which just means, I was too lazy to rip it out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scjY1Cy8L-o/WWDFeT4Mf9I/AAAAAAAAA88/N1LRmtCu9nIw_pipu2x5EKaucQOBqenIgCLcBGAs/s1600/vest%2Bskirt%2B5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scjY1Cy8L-o/WWDFeT4Mf9I/AAAAAAAAA88/N1LRmtCu9nIw_pipu2x5EKaucQOBqenIgCLcBGAs/s320/vest%2Bskirt%2B5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
And finally, the skirt. I wore it around travling, great pockets for passports, cell phone, money, kleenex. There is a large inside pocket, pick pocket proof and big enough for maps. I didn't even need a purse.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-frQJiSPIOO0/WWDFeczUvxI/AAAAAAAAA9A/w_xr2aWQ5VAiunt_VWlSza_hO6Pm9OIJgCLcBGAs/s1600/vest%2Bskirt%2B7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-frQJiSPIOO0/WWDFeczUvxI/AAAAAAAAA9A/w_xr2aWQ5VAiunt_VWlSza_hO6Pm9OIJgCLcBGAs/s320/vest%2Bskirt%2B7.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-31492392831301886302017-02-21T14:36:00.002-08:002017-02-21T14:36:59.446-08:00Adding Real Pocket to Faux Zipper PocketI love pockets, for kleenex, keys whatever but most pants now don't have them. So I bought a pair of pants with faux pockets that have working zippers and plan to transform them.<br />
<br />
First thing to do is to zigzag stitch the fabric under the zipper to make sure they don't run when you slit the fabric. I did one pocket before slitting the fabric and the other pocket after. Before works better because the fabric is stretched out, afterwards, it rolls and hard to sew. I used Fray Check <br />
<img alt="Prym Dritz Fray Check Sealant" src="http://cdn-us-ec.yottaa.net/551561a7312e580499000a44/6dfc9540b6ba0132c6c50a3ba3fac80a.yottaa.net/v~13.36/aamm_prd/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-joann-product-catalog/default/dwa16634e5/images/hi-res/10/1052851.jpg?yocs=T_&yoloc=us" /><br />
<br />
at the ends because a sewing machine can't reach the corners. Here is it after slitting and stabilizing the edges.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBxiN7ld24Y/WKy9PS15IdI/AAAAAAAAAyw/PLKP5KCMUmcznSsR5epCBCdWX79iEbMmQCLcB/s1600/zipper4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBxiN7ld24Y/WKy9PS15IdI/AAAAAAAAAyw/PLKP5KCMUmcznSsR5epCBCdWX79iEbMmQCLcB/s320/zipper4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I cut 2 pieces of fabric the width of the pocket welt 4.75" in my case and about 10" long. First stitch the pocket fabric to the lower welt, see below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ab-fEh4bvCc/WKy9PaeRV4I/AAAAAAAAAys/GJ0MtgOqcJoHGopHlm3tm9_IEIsvaqOAACLcB/s1600/zipper%2Blower%2Bseam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ab-fEh4bvCc/WKy9PaeRV4I/AAAAAAAAAys/GJ0MtgOqcJoHGopHlm3tm9_IEIsvaqOAACLcB/s320/zipper%2Blower%2Bseam.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XE8KzRql7M/WKy-wPtSA8I/AAAAAAAAAy8/VL8n1IJCPJEipI2OvZQDFLZXIECAr4sQgCLcB/s1600/zipper%2Bflip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XE8KzRql7M/WKy-wPtSA8I/AAAAAAAAAy8/VL8n1IJCPJEipI2OvZQDFLZXIECAr4sQgCLcB/s320/zipper%2Bflip.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The picture to the right is what the underside of the stitching looks like. Now sew the other end of the pocket to the upper welt and around the edges to form the pocket. I used a very stretchy knit and it's hard to adjust the pressure foot pressure on my sewing machine (new to me Bernina 820) which everyone says is great but I prefer my late Kenmore 70s machine. So the fabric is wavy, but no one sees it so I won't change it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZhCCio6Zko/WKy_UVmdB7I/AAAAAAAAAzA/8kbwHDxe6jQ9yx9wl924K1_Epm1QpVsjgCLcB/s1600/zipper%2B7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gZhCCio6Zko/WKy_UVmdB7I/AAAAAAAAAzA/8kbwHDxe6jQ9yx9wl924K1_Epm1QpVsjgCLcB/s320/zipper%2B7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
So now from the right side you can see the pocket pulled out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSQL8KT--xc/WKzATjnIVJI/AAAAAAAAAzM/-t7qTXKCIyMiCee361ObpyGH7xptVjcbgCLcB/s1600/zipper2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSQL8KT--xc/WKzATjnIVJI/AAAAAAAAAzM/-t7qTXKCIyMiCee361ObpyGH7xptVjcbgCLcB/s320/zipper2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
You can make one or two pockets, since they don't change the looks on the outside it's your choice.<br />
And this is a foolproof method, no matter what happens you can always keep the pocket zipped close and no one is the wiser.Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-9415769606256215772017-02-20T11:35:00.002-08:002017-07-07T04:02:34.304-07:00Making a portable foot rest/sling for the Plane<h3>
Update, it works! Actually it is better than a foot rest (I used my backpack for a footrest on the plane) because it supports the knee as well. My right knee gets sore if I don't move it, old skiing injury. I can still ski but riding a chair lift is painful because my knee has to hold the ski weight. </h3>
<br />
<br />
I am short and sometimes my feet don't reach the floor on airplanes especially when I am reclining. Most planes don't have footrests on economy so I decide to make my own. I used belting material, a belt buckle that adjusts and the bottom of a shopping bag. Tried it in the car and works great, can't wait to get on a plane and give it a go.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RPNmMrsa32E/WKtE3aRwxDI/AAAAAAAAAxg/iyTL4A0wXnE9HINDAmer963Sdm0yZspnQCLcB/s1600/sling1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RPNmMrsa32E/WKtE3aRwxDI/AAAAAAAAAxg/iyTL4A0wXnE9HINDAmer963Sdm0yZspnQCLcB/s320/sling1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LXaSDFiVBA/WKtE3cx2GSI/AAAAAAAAAxk/nSiGrwPNGcIHnwLzOgC7xmt3uotuWJNSQCLcB/s1600/sling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3LXaSDFiVBA/WKtE3cx2GSI/AAAAAAAAAxk/nSiGrwPNGcIHnwLzOgC7xmt3uotuWJNSQCLcB/s320/sling.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-14782832258357970612017-01-17T18:19:00.000-08:002017-01-17T18:19:04.763-08:00Bound ButtonholerI haven't made a bound buttonhole in 20 years but I heard about the bound buttonholer and bought one on ebay a couple of yeras back. With shipping it was over $10, but I was shopping at Britex in SF and they have them for $4.95 and available on Amazon too. Glad they are available again.<br />
<br />
<img height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/618H2%2BWZHpL._SL1200_.jpg" width="400" />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-56571173909179920832016-08-17T22:03:00.000-07:002016-08-17T22:03:26.384-07:00Shoulder Bag from Suede SkirtsI bought 2 factory seconds suede skirts from the FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Scholarship Store) in downtown L.A. The zippers were broken so I make them into a tote bag. The suede is too thin for shoulder straps so I used belting. I sprayed it with leather protectant, like I do with all my leather clothing and shoes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3489SKYx6fE/V7VBYjFBd0I/AAAAAAAAAqM/yOVXbj9zuSwQKbgtqBGEiWR0uZGp4e2oACLcB/s1600/suede%2Bbag%2Btoo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3489SKYx6fE/V7VBYjFBd0I/AAAAAAAAAqM/yOVXbj9zuSwQKbgtqBGEiWR0uZGp4e2oACLcB/s320/suede%2Bbag%2Btoo.JPG" width="268" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-78221237571750296322016-05-22T17:49:00.000-07:002016-08-17T22:03:51.561-07:00Fixing Too Large Cloth ShoesI love these shoes but the sizes available are too big or too small so I opted for too big and sewed a piece of elastic slightly shorter than the heel length to shorten the shoes slightly. Had to hand sew because even with a free arm sewing machine, it wasn't possible to get at the heel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5-Fns8ZHYQ/V0JS7lWG5HI/AAAAAAAAAnE/K9kskmv3TpMI3-PTgbRnxek9ED6PeO7DQCLcB/s1600/shoe1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5-Fns8ZHYQ/V0JS7lWG5HI/AAAAAAAAAnE/K9kskmv3TpMI3-PTgbRnxek9ED6PeO7DQCLcB/s320/shoe1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZrUB-J-nFs/V0JTPOManUI/AAAAAAAAAnM/miH69h6Bxv8ji4G_EHC8mZ0qesli_NnSQCLcB/s1600/shoe2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZrUB-J-nFs/V0JTPOManUI/AAAAAAAAAnM/miH69h6Bxv8ji4G_EHC8mZ0qesli_NnSQCLcB/s320/shoe2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-85704366659936475622016-05-10T22:03:00.000-07:002016-05-10T22:03:31.468-07:00Adding Pocket to Athleta DressI am obsessed with travel clothing as a frequent flyer. I love this casual dress but with no pockets it wasn't as useful as I like. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzzgU2Tm6ro/VzK7QGutdtI/AAAAAAAAAmc/Q9WF1yiqE-YRtVxSeIkjXV8ql-pD649KACLcB/s1600/IMG_0519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzzgU2Tm6ro/VzK7QGutdtI/AAAAAAAAAmc/Q9WF1yiqE-YRtVxSeIkjXV8ql-pD649KACLcB/s400/IMG_0519.JPG" width="262" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The surplice neckline has 2 layers of fabric all the way down to the diagonal seam past the hips, so there is plenty of fabric for storage. I can actually put stuff down the front of the dress but looks a little awkward if I were actually going to use it in public. So I installed an invisible zipper on the right side to make a pocket opening. Only problem is the dress is fairly tight fitting so can't put anything thick in the pocket. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tknVPcPctO4/VzK7T_noSzI/AAAAAAAAAms/8aH_BUiEgNkz4VsmbkiYR6lN5w0NiyFEQCKgB/s1600/zip%2Bclosed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tknVPcPctO4/VzK7T_noSzI/AAAAAAAAAms/8aH_BUiEgNkz4VsmbkiYR6lN5w0NiyFEQCKgB/s320/zip%2Bclosed.JPG" title="" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zipped</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WaUjtiuV90/VzK7T-YX4uI/AAAAAAAAAmk/ZYOFz5djdiMvPaiHdIhWN-fuoA7jBqRVACKgB/s1600/zip%2Bopen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WaUjtiuV90/VzK7T-YX4uI/AAAAAAAAAmk/ZYOFz5djdiMvPaiHdIhWN-fuoA7jBqRVACKgB/s320/zip%2Bopen.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unzipped</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-58546471617071651712016-04-26T22:21:00.002-07:002016-08-17T22:05:30.414-07:00Making an Ex-offcio fly-q lite jacket convertible (to vest)The ex-officio fly-q lite comes as a jacket or a vest. <br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i.stpost.com/product~p~9579A_01~1500.1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81cCXIH179L._SL1500_.jpg" height="320" width="244" /><br />
<br />
I wanted both but didn't want to pack 2 things if I can get away with one so I decided to make the jacket convertible. The hardest part was finding the separating zippers of the right color but I couldn't find the right length (needed 18") so I bought longer ones and cut them off. I sew the zipper ends to the jacket fabric so it wouldn't slide further. Also I decided that I want the zipper pulls on the sleeve part so that when worn as a vest, there is no pull sticking out. <br />
<br />
I can vouch that the jacket is well made, I had to take apart 4 seams to detach the sleeves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-81Y5oaby-d8/VyBIUKetvkI/AAAAAAAAAlo/qvUWqmmLZ9gp6ENsHQ-PftrMC-kwiwPSwCKgB/s320/jacket%2Bbefore.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Here is a picture of the zipper after installation. I left an inch gap the the armscye so the armhole won't be too inflexible. Also it compensates for any mismatching of the seams. I matched the back yoke seam on the sleeve and body just like the original jacket.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXFGLG--rFE/VyBIUEPJ-3I/AAAAAAAAAls/jwk8dxkVCJoGta1S0EtD4YSoh7EA1zipgCLcB/s1600/jacket%2Bzipper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXFGLG--rFE/VyBIUEPJ-3I/AAAAAAAAAls/jwk8dxkVCJoGta1S0EtD4YSoh7EA1zipgCLcB/s320/jacket%2Bzipper.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here as a vest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x_QtWprNH0s/VyBIUgZBauI/AAAAAAAAAl0/6NzWDo_cx7I1oMMx2uqp3pr0D_zkvDAhwCLcB/s1600/vest%2Bonly.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x_QtWprNH0s/VyBIUgZBauI/AAAAAAAAAl0/6NzWDo_cx7I1oMMx2uqp3pr0D_zkvDAhwCLcB/s320/vest%2Bonly.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And as a jacket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flol15dzwj4/VyBIUMZ2wjI/AAAAAAAAAl8/QUosh3vrhDMX39k0vunxdUby2L-dH3f3ACKgB/s1600/jacket%2Bwhole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flol15dzwj4/VyBIUMZ2wjI/AAAAAAAAAl8/QUosh3vrhDMX39k0vunxdUby2L-dH3f3ACKgB/s320/jacket%2Bwhole.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It took me I think about 8 hours, not counting the hours going to the fabric stores and looking for zippers. The actual sewing took about an hour. I spend about an hour putting in a new zipper stop by bending an eye from an hook and eye and then sewing it down. But as I was sewing I realized the stitches can make the zipper stop and not bother with the eye for the 2nd sleeve. I also make sure the zipper pull are on the sleeves and not the body so they will not show when worn as a vest. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I want to shorten the sleeves but decided too much work, will roll them up instead.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Will be traveling "lite" with my fly-q lite.</div>
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-60282672758094764922016-04-04T15:31:00.002-07:002016-04-04T15:31:40.594-07:00Using Pinterest to Organize my Sewing PatternsI have hundreds of sewing patterns. When I see a style I like I just buy the pattern and someday maybe find the fabric. After I started designing knitwear, I used the patterns for grading. It gives me what the average measurements for whatever dimension I need for whatever size. I even have the same pattern in different sizes to cover the range I need to design for. I google the pattern and pin the pattern to my board, note the size and my physical patterns are in a filing cabinet organized alphabetically and numerically. Easy to find, easy to browse to see what I already have.<br />
<br />
I do have one complaint, pattern companies reuse the numbers so through the years there will be 2 or 3 versions of Butterick xxxx but I figure those are few. Also I do have some patterns not on the net yet, I'll have to take a photo and upload them.<br />
<br />
<br />
My pinterest page is<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/tangramknits/my-sewing-patterns/" target="_blank"> here</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pmFQL5q1gtw/VwLqnPu1ksI/AAAAAAAAAkY/Jk26jaGEGnUZYDKJ8Po6gE0genI6O3Lkg/s1600/Pinterest%2Blarge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pmFQL5q1gtw/VwLqnPu1ksI/AAAAAAAAAkY/Jk26jaGEGnUZYDKJ8Po6gE0genI6O3Lkg/s1600/Pinterest%2Blarge.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSweu2sW22I/VwLp4knDkkI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/cxq2wKBRFN0TLrw81kBWn2pi_32mCCKrQ/s1600/Pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nSweu2sW22I/VwLp4knDkkI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/cxq2wKBRFN0TLrw81kBWn2pi_32mCCKrQ/s640/Pinterest.jpg" width="636" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/tangramknits/my-sewing-patterns/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/tangramknits/my-sewing-patterns/</a>Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-50003897934188059952015-12-09T15:25:00.004-08:002015-12-09T15:25:58.645-08:00Making Wool Dryer BallsOn my knitting blog, http://blog.tangramknits.com/ I show how to make these dryer balls. A good way to use up old wool clothing and leftover wool yarn (upcycling) and saving energy by using less dryer time. And Eileen Fisher is charging $29 for 3 balls. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rQt3lkdxK7g/Vmi4GxDhpPI/AAAAAAAAAdg/FECjxekde6c/s1600/balls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rQt3lkdxK7g/Vmi4GxDhpPI/AAAAAAAAAdg/FECjxekde6c/s320/balls.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388256937655925130.post-47616522240982174522015-11-12T10:45:00.001-08:002015-11-12T10:45:19.838-08:00Shorten a Nylon Zipper with a CandleI want to use an invisible zipper for a pocket closing but couldn't find zippers that are ~5" long. So I bought a longer zipper and plan to shorten it. However, I don't like using thread to sew a new zipper stop, threads break too easily and then the zipper slide goes off track. I have used a staple before and that's effective but that can poke into your hand for this pocket. So I looked at the zipper end and saw that it is either glued or melted together.<br />
<br />
Back in college, I remembered using a candle flame to melt the raw edges of my nylon backpack to make sure they won't ravel so I thought I would try this. In the picture below I practiced at a spot longer than I needed and then at the length I wanted. I put the coil near the candle flame and watched it melt, be careful once it starts it goes quick. I cut off the excess and now have a short zipper with a permanent stop. This zipper is all nylon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPB0K8Xy7b4/VkTdzYHwAhI/AAAAAAAAAbk/YHrmhlwuOE4/s1600/zipper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPB0K8Xy7b4/VkTdzYHwAhI/AAAAAAAAAbk/YHrmhlwuOE4/s320/zipper.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Alice Tanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08849804120841640192noreply@blogger.com