Handy Tips For Crafters and Hobbyists

Every time I discover a handy crafting tip I save it in my "good idea" file. Here are a few that I think are worth knowing about.

Sewing Breeze
Slide a piece of fabric softener sheet over your thread to make quilting a breeze.

Take A Load Off
When doing hand sewing, place a fat pillow in your lap to take the strain off your shoulders. If you quilt on a frame put the pillow on your knee to rest your elbow.

Recycling Trick
For those who like to design and cut your own stencils, save the clear plastic lids from tops of stationary boxes. they are perfect for making small borders. The acetate is excellent for making patchwork and applique templates.

Perfect Stitches
To sew perfectly straight seams, place a strip of masking tape on the fabric and stitch along the edge. Peel tape away when finished.

Spray Painting Small Items
When spray painting a small item on all sides, place it on a paper-covered lazy Susan. Spin with one hand while you spray paint with the other.

Quick Cross Stitch
Use a gingham fabric for the background. A charted design can be copied square for square onto the fabric squares which are larger than even-weave Aida cloth. Gingham comes in different sizes and colors.

Non-Slip Quilt Templates
Use sandpaper to cut quilt templates. Draw the pattern on the smooth paper side and place the sandpaper face down on the fabric. It won't slide.

Keeping Pins Sharp
Shavings from a pencil sharpener are terrific for filling a pincushion and will keep the pins sharpened. Sand-filled cushions work well, too.

Easy Paint Touch Ups
Need to touch up something with a dab of paint? Use a cotton swab rather than buying or dirtying a paintbrush. These are also great for children's painting.

Storing Yarn
If you do any knitting or crochet work, store the yarn in a clear, plastic, hanging, closet bag with shelves and a zipper front.

Copyright Leslie Linsley, author
Reprinted with permission, HouseNet, Inc.

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