Day 11: My All Time Favorite…
Dec 11
Hi everyone,
Welcome to Day 11 of our 12 Days Of Christmas celebration!
Today we are giving away … a copy of The Dressmakers Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques
To enter simply respond to this post and complete this sentence:
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn [insert what you need to learn] …so I can [insert project you want to accomplish]…”
Comments must be left (on this blog post) by midnight (pacific), today, 12/11/2011.
One entry per person. No purchase necessary, void where prohibited. The winner will be chosen randomly from the comments received and contacted through the email provided in the comment. We will choose a winner and announce it in tomorrow’s post to let everyone know who won.
Merry Christmas,
Cinnamon, & The Liberty Jane Team
Ps. The winner of yesterday’s give-away is Tricia! Congrats Tricia, we will email you later today…
Pps. Here is a link to the book if you’re interested in checking it out…
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn everything so I can know what I am doing. I just started making doll clothes and I am teaching myself as a go. It’s hard, but I love it.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to “correctly gather” so I can make cool doll clothes!
I want to learn how to gather because I have seen SO MANY cute patterns that I need to gather for..
I always use 2 parallel lines of stitching about 1/8 inch apart. Set the stitch length to the longest setting. Stitch on the right side of the fabric. Pull both threads from the wrong side (bobbin side). Pin the gathered fabric to the whatever you are going to stitch it to. Adjust gathers as you go. I mark the center of the gathered fabric and the center of the straight fabric and then pin the centers together so the gathers will be equal on each side. Practice makes it easier so jump in.
The way I have found works best for American Girl clothes is to put two rows of basting stitches with the first row being 1/4 inch from edge then next row 1/4 inch in from that. Pull your basting stitches from one side of the garment evenly. Measure both the piece that is to be gathered and mark 1/4s as well as the piece you are attaching the gathered piece to. By doing this you end up with even gathers. Always pin pin pin you cannot put too many pins when you are preparing to attach a gathered piece to another one. Before you sew make sure both sides are smooth and baste first if all is well then sew and rip out basting.
I always use a 3.5 stitch length. My first row of stitches are about an 1/8 from the edge. The next row is about a 1/4 inch from there. Sew between the two rows. Keeps the stitches more even. Remove basting stitches.
I’m not sure I can explain this well as I’ve never done it but I definitely will on my next project. Set you machine on a wide zig zag stitch, with your fabric to gather under the feeddogs lower your needle and bring up your bobbin thread-pull the bobbin thread out a little longer than the length of the fabric to gather – now zigzag stitch over the long bobbin thread. Remove fabric from the sewing machine and gather your fabric by pulling on the long bobbin thread. I saw this on Sewing With Nancy from A-Z on PBS. She said this was her favorite way to gather.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do a human size sleeve …so I can make a dress for my sister
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to hem better.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do gathers so I can do a skirt that has a bunch of gathers.
The way I have found works best for American Girl clothes is to put two rows of basting stitches with the first row being 1/4 inch from edge then next row 1/4 inch in from that. Pull your basting stitches from one side of the garment evenly. Measure both the piece that is to be gathered and mark 1/4s as well as the piece you are attaching the gathered piece to. By doing this you end up with even gathers. Always pin pin pin you cannot put too many pins when you are preparing to attach a gathered piece to another one. You need to lay your items on a flat surface to pin and double check both sides so you do not have any “bunches”. Before you sew make sure both sides are smooth and baste first if all is well then sew and rip out basting.
when it comes to sewing i need to learn a lot of things i just started learning how to sew and i’m pretty good at it but i think i need this book so i can understand sewing more better
When it comes to sewing I need to learn to be braver and take chances so I can make more cutting-edge fashions for my doll divas. I learned to sew from a great aunt, who was fantastic– she made patterns, changed things on existing patterns that she didn’t like to things she loved. Aunt Florence is my sewing inspiration and I’d love to be able to expand my boundaries just like she did!!! (Knowing her, I’d bet she had a book like yours…)
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to double stitch so I can have my finished projects look even better!
Are you able to use a double needle with your machine, if so this is the easiest way to get nice even top stitching.
when it comes to sewing i need to use your patterns so i can sew alone (they are easiest to follow)
i can accually have something nice come out!!!!
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew a blind hem so that I can hem my own dress pants and also expand my creations for my daughters’ AG dolls.
when it comes to sewing i need to know how o use my sewing machine
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to use my serger so I can work with knits better (for t-shirts and more!).
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to smock so I can make a dress for my Lucy doll from the Narnia movies/books!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to choose the right fabric to work with the patterns so I can have great results and beautiful clothes.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to use the all decorative stitches on my sewing machine … so I can create more decorateve doll clothes!!!!!”
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew knits without a serger so I can make these darling tanks and other knit tops from LJ patterns.
Hi Rita, Congratulations! You are the winner of the sewing book
We will contact you through email with the details…
Cinnamon
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to accurately and correctly draft my own patterns/learn more about why a pattern piece works the way it does and become more familiar with advanced construction techniques so that I can make the one-of-a-kind clothes I draw and plan a well-constructed reality.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn & accept how to work smarter & faster so that I can actually make money doing what I love. I do not like to “production” sew; I like to complete each outfit before going on to the next. This lets each outfit “speak” to me and means each one is unique. However, it’s really counter productive (and not good business sense) to take 4 hours to complete a top that sells for, say, $12. Also, I need practice with zippers. Joan
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to use my sewing machine…so I can make my own designs for my american girl dolls come to life!
I need to learn to do alterations.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do ruffles so I can make a lot more patterns, and make clothes for my doll that look like my own.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to improve my skills modifying existing patterns so I can create what I’ve imagined in my minde.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to smock, elasticize like AG does, and a few other things so that I can add more details to doll clothes to create visual interest and texture. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt to know for people size clothing.
Most of these things I have suspicions on how to do them, but I don’t KNOW for sure.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use a sewing machine so I can use the patterns I get from liberty Jane to make outfits for my dolls
I think I need to improve at altering patterns so my creations are more original.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew delicate fabrics better so I can make more fancy outfits.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew thick fabric’s so I can make doll bedding out of thick fabric.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to work on small items so I can make more doll clothes. I’m pretty proficient at anything for those over 24 inches tall already.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to alter human patterns so that I can get that perfect fit.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do necklines!!! Necklines are my weakest point of all time. I am trying to make a top with a ruffled collar and the neckline is certainly NOT what I imagined. I need to learn how to turn my ideas in to reality
Thanks, Cinnamon! 
-charlotte <3
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to work with wool and silk so I can make beautiful and historically correct AG doll outfits!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn much more about the details. I can cut out a pattern and follow it but, doing all the fine points of creating an outfit I’m not well educated at all about. I guess the best way to describe my knowledge is that I know enough to be dangerous. LOL
I need to learn how to work with knits better on my old Montgomery Ward sewing machine, so I can make some of the outfits I’m envisioning for my nieces’ dolls.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to make accessories for doll clothes so my dgd’s doll is “styling”
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to design patterns and sew even hem so that I can start making money in making couture doll clothes.
When it comes to sewing I would like to learn some new tips and tricks.
I’m an adequate seamstress for the most part, but I’d like to be an AMAZING one! Tips like the ones available in this book are just what I need to increase excellence and take things to the next level. I’ve always loved looking at anything that is well-crafted, and I’d like to give that kind of pleasure to others.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew!!!!!! so I can make cute outfits for my dolls of course!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to create custom clothing and the pattern to go with the clothes. I would like to be able to make and use my own designs.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn smocking,so I can create clothes like what Luna and Hermione wear in the Harry Potter movies and to make some 1930′s dresses for Kit(and myself :-)).
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to make my own patterns! I think making my own would really help me with doll clothes & sewing. I also need to buy more of your patterns.
When it comes to sewing,I need to learn pactince so that i can have better looking and better stiched products! ~alexisrocks94
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to smock so I can make fun smocked dresses and tops that have smocked bands.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to sew with knits so I can make leggings and shirts for dolls!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to be less dependent on written instructions and more able to be creative on my own.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to use the serger I just received so I can make more professional looking clothes.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to make fitted clothing like customizing the pattern or making my own patterns to fit professionally so I can make matching outfits, coats, dresses, costumes, for both my granddaughter and her 18 inch doll. And even their mother, my daughter-in-law.
When it comes to sewing I would like to learn how to sew a bubble skirt and a leotard for my dolls:)
When it comes to sewing I need to take better care when making doll clothes to secure and finish all seams, knowing that little ones will provide lots of wear and tear on the finished project.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do shirring so I can make a skirt for me with the fabric I bought forever ago!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew with silky fabrics and how to modify/ adjust patterns so I can start to make my own American girl doll sized versions of famous dresses and costumes worn in movies (ex: Princess Leia’s white dress with the hood). =]
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use the serger my mom just got me for xmas so I can finish all the clothes my niece wants for her doll and matching ones for herself
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn just about everything …so I can make lots more clothes for my Daughter’s American Girl dolls.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn advanced techniques so I can make more complicated designs that are finished with a flair!
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew more elaborate doll clothes.
When it comes to sewing, I need to lear
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn [insert what you need to learn] …so I can [insert project you want to accomplish]…”
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to make a button and hole so I can finish making my surprise for LJC!
When I comes to sewing, I need to improve my skills so that I can be a confident with a machine as I am with hand work especially for baby and doll clothes making.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn smock so I can made a summer dress for my Grandaughter.
Sounds good , have always wanted to do that for my little girl! she’s 25 now!
when it comes to sewing i need to learn how to sew
so i can sew
Ha ha, that’s cute
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn be less timid and worried that it won’t be perfect…so I can actually start and complete things, and in the process practice more so that my skills can get closer to where I want them!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to finish the garment edges correctly so I can have a fantastic product.
When it comes to sewing, I would like to purchase a serger so that I can work with more types of fabric. I want to be able to use more satins, taffetas and brocades to make period gowns. I want to learn construction of foundation garments to make these styles fit correctly.
I enjoy sewing, I would just like to expand my techniques and I feel that this reference book would be ideal in helping me.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use all my presser feet so, I can have a more finished look to my garments
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to apply bias tape properly! and sewing in zippers. And being more creative with fabrics and patterns, to get more original looking outfits!
when it comes to sewing, i need to learn how to work with smaller things so i can make clothes for my little dolls
What a great book. This one is going on my Christmas list. That is of course unless I win….
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn more design and construction techniques so I can customize patterns to be my own.
Andrea Jene
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew on my sewing machine rather than hand stitching, so one day, I can become partners with Liberty Jane and eventually use the money I make from sewing doll clothes to support a child through World Vision. :)(I am learning slowly though)
When it comes to sewing I need to learn alot of short cuts so I can get all my projects done on time!
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to alter and make my own pattern so I can make anything I see”
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to trust my instincts as far as combining fabric colors and types, especially for making small clothes …so I can create interesting one of a kind outfits.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn restraint in the fabric store so I can make the things I have already planned. My fabric stash grows faster than I can utilize it. Too much to do, too little time to do it.
PS – Thanks for this contest. Our responses have made me stop and think about some of the things we take for granted.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to insert a zipper so I can make some human-sized clothes too.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn when to say, “No” so I can complete all my projects and not be stressed about them. :0)
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn everything. I am a beginner in sewing. I have made doll clothes successfully from easy patterns. I would love to learn to make my own clothes and have them fit correctly. I have so much to learn. I really enjoy making the doll clothes for my daughter/
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn where to find the gathering foot for my old singer sewing machine. I seem to have misplaced it (well, I’ve never seen it so….) and that makes it harder to sew outfits, due to having to gather everything by hand.
P.S.-this book sounds really cool! I would love to get it because I love creating original designs for my dolls.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn proper pleating and ruching techniques so that I can make my prom dress for May of next year.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to hem better, not stretch knit fabrics, alter patterns, and not rush through making doll clothes, so I can become good enough to open up an etsy shop.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to choose the right trims so I can accessorize better.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn patience…so I can calmly finish a project that isn’t going perfect. I also need to learn to do better button holes!”
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn make patterns …so I can create some of my own ideas.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to keep the stitch straight my stitching always comes out lopsidded if I can keep it straight them I will be able to perfect Liberty Jane’s mini skirt pattern.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to sew with knit fabric so I can sew better t-shirts, etc.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to better utilize my machine …so I can sew more effectively/efficiently and make more projects!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to use the embroidery machine so I can accent more dolly clothing and accessories!
when it comes to sewing, i need to learn how to make adult and children’s clothes for my sisters and niece!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to gather stitch so I can complete a dress.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to thread the bobbin so I can finish my projects when I run out of thread.
When itcomes to sewing, Ineed to learn how to say NO and get some of my own things done. ha!!! I’m glad to learn that I’m not the only one in the same “boat”. I like to sew and especially for the dolls, they are quick and easy and I love your patterns, very up to date and sophisticated. Love them!! Thanks for all your work and this has been a fun time for the 12 days of Christmas!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do smocking. I love the little dresses with smocking, they are adorable.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to do the double stitching on the doll clothes so I can have a more professional look to my doll clothes.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to draft my own patterns so I feel more comfortable “doing my own thing”. I’m good at following directions, but get frustrated when trying to do something on my own!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to free motion quilting …so I can make some small cute quilting projects like tree skirts, table runners, mug rugs,etc…”
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to start completely from scratch …so I can make anything for any size without starting with a pattern sometimes.”
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew pintucks so I can add the tucks to tops for my dolls.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to follow the directions better so that I don’t mess up as much!
when it comes to sewing I need to get my time in order and stay with it to finish my doll clothes.
When it comes to sewing …I need to learn how to do button holes!! They never come out the same each time they are longer or shorter or, fat or skinny!!
When it comes to sewing I need to start. I always put it off until the last minute.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn the minute details of fine sewing …so I can sew with professional results.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to make tiny buttonholes so I can give up velcro for my AG’s clothes.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew with Knits, so I can be a can make some of the t shirts on Liberty Jane. I am having a hard time with the stretchy, slippery knits.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew a zipper so I can add a new sewing skill to my 4-H project.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to make closings with buttons , elastic , etc…; so I can continue to sew for my daughter as she matures and out grows elastic.
When it comes to sewing I need to know everything I need to
know,so I can Make shirts and dresses for my American
Girl Doll.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to be patient and neat when working with a pattern so I will come up with nicely done doll clothes.
Have gotten back into sewing the last couple of years and learning to do doll clothes. I need to learn how to finish seams more neatly, would love to learn smocking, and be better with knits and delicate fabrics.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to stop buying so much fabric and use up what I have first…so I can start to use my talents and sell some doll clothes I make”.
When it comes to sewing, I NEED TO SLOW DOWN!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to trace and cut out patterns so I can create beautiful pieces for my daughters American Girl doll and be proud of it!!:)
When it comes to sewing I want to learn to make my doll clothes look professional. Then I can look at AG clothes and say I can make that look just as good if not better. Then sell them and make money so I don’t have to get a “real job”.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn the tricks of the professionals to make my outfits heirloom quality!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to correctly cut my patterns so my memaw doesn’t have to do it for me …so I can start making doll clothes out of my designs I have laying around. <3 Katie Maye
When it comes to sewing I need to learn fitting, and how to choose, and sew different fabrics so I can create one of a kind, elegant pieces – doll size and me size!
When it comes to sewing I need to learn better time management and confidence in the things that I make so I can make a little money doing things I like.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use my cover stitch attachment so I can sew amazing knit fashions for my dolls.
When it comes to sewing I want to learn all techniques there are to keep updated on my skills so I can make beautiful clothing. It is so exciting and challenging to learn new things.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew faster, practice not being a perfectionist and cut patterns smarter so I can make more doll clothes, use less fabric and try new things!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to not skip the details in pattern directions and to spend more time with the construction …so I can be happier with the completed project, instead of hurrying to the finished item! I need to pay more attention to seam finishes and actually do the stay-stitching, because it makes a real difference. I also need to learn to be patient and find the perfect fabric, instead of just settling on whatever I find first.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to bag a lining so I can finish the jacket that has been waiting for so long.
How to sew using various types of fabric.
When it comes to sewing… i really need to learn to make my stitching as straight as possible so I can make some AG outfits for my 8 year old neighbor!!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn…basically how to sew!! …so I can make all the outfits I dream of
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use my Ruffler so I can make cuter doll and baby clothes.
How to do an FBA so I can sew clothes for myself
j-j-s AT juno DOT com
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew better hems …so I can make my dresses and skirts look better.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to use the serger I just bought so that I can sew with knit fabric successfully.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to make bound buttonholes.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn want to adjust patterns more easily to fit the person (or doll) that I’m sewing for. This book has been on my Wish List for a long time!
Please edit out the extra “want”… I don’t know how!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to be less of a perfectionist so I can finish more projects!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to add piping so that I can complete my version of Addy’s cape island dress. It is a major dream of mine to make a faithful reproduction. Thanks for offering your wonderful patterns to us all.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to finish and fit my clothes so I can create better fitting clothes.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to be more patient when I make mistakes so that I can do more difficult projects such as zippers.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to put in sleeves and zippers.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to make pants so I can make jeans and pajama pants for my dolls!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to gather better, so it looks neater
When it comes to sewing i need to learn how to create a pattern for what exists only in the space in my head. A beautiful idea but I lack the ability to produce it.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew human sized clothing better, because I have created many outfits I love for my dolls and really want my own just like them!
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use more stitches on my serger so I can make those super cute ruffles with the edging I love. I just made my first pair of Liberty Jane Jeans and they came out sooo nice! :o)
I need to learn how to make my own patterns so I can make doll clothes of outfits I see that I like. e.g., new Disney princesses. I would also like to learn to quilt so I can make a blanket out of all the scraps I’ve saved
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to draft a pattern so I can make outfits in doll and real girl sizes.
When it comes to sewing i need to lean everything so i can make more doll clothes
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn more about circle skirts. Cut on grain? Cut on bias? Best hem treatment?
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to draft sleeve patterns so I can make doll outfits with a variety of sleeve styles.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to use all of my sewing machine feet so I can finish small, detailed projects more quickly and with acruacy.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to properly proportion so it fits well without being tight!
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to use a sewing machine so it will turn out more “professional” and I won’t have to do it all by hand
When it comes to sewing I need to know just about everything! I haven’t sewed since I was a teen. I need to know so I can sew doll clothes for my daughter.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to sew faster so I can get more done!
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn fitting techniques …so I can make tops that fit my daughter and I…”
When it comes to sewing I need to learn about different fabrics and how to work with them. I just started sewing and knits are very intimidating;)
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew sleeves …so I can so I can make nice tops.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn everthing couture so I can sew everything fabulously.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do invisible zippers …so I can make fitted, non-elastic waist skirts.”
When it comes to sewing I need to how to line jackets and other clothing piece so they look professional.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew on zippers …so I can…well…do zippery ish things. Like purses.
When it comes to sewing I need to learn how to create the pick up style skirt. You know the kind that sort of looks bunched up in random places all over the skirt? That and I need to learn to not let the pleat intimidate me.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to sew with knits without a serger so I can make cute little t-shirts and other knit items for my granddaughters doll.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to apply teensy piping so I can finish a tyler wentworth jacket that I have in mind.
When it comes to sewing,I need to learn how to make my clothes look more professional.
“When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to resize patterns …so I can make some of the cuter small sized clothing.
Hope I’m not too late….just found you guys! Not sure how to blog, but I do love your patterns!
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to do smocking for an heirloom look. There are a lot of really cute patterns that include a smocked bodice or waist and I’m just not brave enough to try them. I haven’t found a smocking tutorial that seems quick and easy.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn how to use the feet I have for my serger so I can do more techniques faster and easier.
When it comes to sewing, I need to learn to adjust my own patterns. I need to especially be able to adjust the rise on pants patterns, so I can make clothes for myself.