What’s the best way to judge how much ribbing is needed for a cuff or neckline opening?

Most patterns that call for ribbed cuffs or neckbands include a pattern for those pieces, or at least a suggestion of a ratio for good fit. Ribbings differ in stretchability based on their fiber content and knit pattern, so there’s no absolute answer to this question. You want a ribbing that will lie flat without rippling, and that will hug the neckline or wrist. The general rule of thumb is to cut the ribbing 2/3 to 3/4 of the distance of the piece it’s being applied to. For example, if a neckline circumference is 16″, ribbing can be around 12″. It’s best to pin a circle of ribbing in the size you think will work and then try it over your hand, wrist or head to see how it looks. Be sure to fold it as it will be when finished, and do be careful as the cut edge of some ribbings run when stretched. Be sure to apply the ribbing with a stretchable stitch or serger to avoid having broken stitches when it stretches.

I can no longer see well to thread my sewing needles. Is there something to help me out?

If you’re having trouble threading your  machine needle and your machine doesn’t offer a built-in threader, consider using a self-threading needle. It’s made by Schmetz Needles and offers an eye with a slot on one side. If you can see the slot, simply pull the thread into it. If you’re not able to see the slot, hold the thread tautly against the inside portion of the needle and slide it down the needle shaft until it slips into the slot. Keep in mind that this needle is more fragile since the eye portion is not complete.

For hand sewing needles, look for slotted needles with the opening at the top of the eye. Simple pop the thread into the slit and pull down on it to snap it into the needle eye.

Another option for threading both hand and machine needles is to purchase a separate needle threader. Some brands come in sets offering different configurations for varying needle types. For example, if you’re a needleworker, select the needlework threader to use with heavier stitchery threads or narrow ribbons. Other threaders offer a simple wire loop to slide through the needle eye and pull the thread through. Most threaders can be used by sight or feel.

If you’re new to the subjects, or just getting back into them after a long break, both these books, which are part of the Look, Learn & Create series will be helpful. Sewing 101 and Quilting 101 are written with the absolute beginner in mind, though the rest of us will find them a good reference as well. Beautiful color photography makes it hard to resist a look through all the pages cover top cover.

Spiral-bound so they lie flat for use at the machine, both books also come with a DVD so you “watch” the books’ content for even easier learning.

The sewing book includes not only techniques, but applications  for both garments and home dec projects.

The quilting title includes basic quilting instruction, and16 projects to apply what you’ve learned.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2011 National Sewing Month Sew for the Love of it contest – Jennifer June (First Place), Tenneh Wilkins (Second Place) and Katherine Heisler (Third Place)! Our sincerest thanks to everyone who entered. Every entry embodied the love each of you have for sewing. We loved them all! See all the entries.

Not only is the book title of What a Novel Idea cute, but it’s designed around the use of novelty print fabrics that we all love. From monkeys, owls and boats to cupcakes and fish, chances are good that you have some of these fun fabrics in your stash. Pat Sloan’s book features 12 quick quilts to make that showcase the novelty prints to their best. In addition to the well illustrated step-by-step quilt directions, there are also instructions included for some feature pillows, and a section on basic quilting techniques, so even if you’ve never quilted before, you’ll find success (and compliments) from this book.

SEW-lutions tip: For more fun sewing projects ideas, visit www.sewing.org.