Make Money With Embroidery

Author: Doug Mahopac

People are all ages are looking to make extra money. Whether you are planning to supplement your current income or looking to replace an income totally, consider using a hobby like embroidery to make some fast cash. Embroidered items are always popular with all types of shoppers, and you can easily begin an embroidery company with a low overhead for those short of start up funds.

When you decide to start a business based on selling embroidered products, you should first consider how you will make the items. Are you planning to purchase pre-made items like shirts, handbags, hats, blankets, or towels or do you plan to make the items yourself? If you plan to purchase items, do you have a source that will supply you with the correct amount you need in a variety of colors or styles? How do you plan to embroider the items? Do you plan to hand embroider the products or are you going to invest in an embroidery machine? If you plan on making many products for sale, consider using machine embroidery to save your fingers and your sanity.

Once you have identified what items you plan to make and sell, begin working on the business logistics of the plan. Where do you plan to sell your items? How are you going to advertise your goods and get the word out about your fabulous items? Many men and women who start embroidery businesses first start at craft shows. These shows are an excellent way to start your fledgling business, since the money needed to participate is generally low, and you are able to show your items to a great deal of people.

Look to the World Wide Web for selling your wares. Popular online auction sites like Ebay or Yahoo! Auctions are a great place to start, since you can create virtual storefronts while gaining access to the site's customers. Owning your own internet business is very inexpensive and often a great choice for individuals who are just starting out or who do not have the resources to rent, buy, or run a traditional store of their own.

Finally, take the old fashioned route and sell your items in a traditional store. If you do not have the resources to open your own shop, ask local store owners about potentially using their space to sell your goods for a cut of the profits. Also, antique stores or shops that showcase goods from local crafters often allow individuals to rent a small space in their store instead of going out on their own.

About the author: Doug Mahopac specialized in embroidery machines.

http://www.u-embroidery-machines.com

Beginning crochet

Author: Kris Perry

Many people enjoy crochet for its relaxing qualities and satisfying results. It appeals to a wide number of people, as most of the materials still remain inexpensive and easy to obtain. Young children are often taught crochet to increase their fine motor skills, to help in their learning to count and follow instructions and to bolster their self-confidence. Amongst older people crochet is popular as a social activity and to help keep arthritic symptoms in check.

Many people find that crochet can reduce stress levels. It's an easily portable craft and can provide inexpensive and original gifts. Crochet can help with dexterity; help with eye-hand coordination; help develop concentration and can be incorporated as part of other crafts.

Crochet means hook in French and this is the name given to the craft amongst French, Italians and Spanish speakers. It's known as haken in Holland, haekling in Denmark, hekling in Norway and virkning in Sweden. Although other forms of handwork can be dated far back in time, owing to archaeological finds no one is quite sure when and where crochet began.

Crochet is a series of interlocking loops of thread onto a chain using a thin rod with a hook at the end. A chain of loops is created, with each new loop catching the thread and pulling it through the previous loop. After the chain is completed, the thread is then turned to start a second chain. There are a large variety of patterns and stitches. Some of the more common stitches are chain, single crochet, half-double crochet, double crochet, popcorn crochet, and cluster crochet.

In the past it was very common to work directly from a picture of finished work or from a sample. This is why in early patterns many of the directions seem to be missing. Women in the nineteenth century were familiar with crochet and therefore instructions that we need today were unnecessary at that time.

The story of crochet continues. By referring to old books, magazines and brochures, people find techniques that have been forgotten. Often crocheters think they have invented new crochet stitches, when they are actually reinventing stitches that have been around for over a hundred and fifty years.

Copyright http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced.

Left Handed Crochet

How To Create Easy Crochet Picture Afghans

Author: A Graf

Creating picture afghans are made most of the time using a Tunisian Simple stitch. You can find Tunisian crochet tutorials at http://www.stitchdiva.com/custom.aspx?id=40 With a published graph or a few simple graph-making tools, yarn in a variety of colors, and easy Tunisian crochet hooks, you'll be on your way to making gorgeous, colorful afghans with images of anything your heart desires! If you prefer to follow written instructions, graphs can easily be converted to text. To do this, write down how many stitches of each color are needed for each row.

Many types of images and photos can be converted into graphs. Cross stitch graphs may be used as well as you own photos placed onto graph paper. There are software programs available for cross-stitch that are very helpful in creating designs for easy Tunisian crochet. PC Stitch or Instant Stitch 2.0 are good programs to use and easy to learn.

Easy graphs are best for the beginner you can use a spreadsheet program such as Excel to set a row and and width in order to create a square block gride, then use the color pallete to select the colors for your design. Graph paper also works by drawing your image on the paper and using a photocopy machine to get the size you need.

The Internet is a great source for graphs also. Search for free cross-stitch graphs, patterns, tunisian crochet graphs, free graph paper maker, cross-stitch freeware, and graph freeware.

For more free crochet patterns visit... http://www.craftdrawer.com/Misc/freepatterns.htm http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory.php or search your favorite search engine for Tunisian crochet patterns

About the author: Author is a published writer of several articles and books and a successful self-employed writer and crafter.

Craft shows that are right for you!

Author: Natalie Goyette

To begin investigating which shows to apply to, you might start with what you know--those shows you've attended, ones that are within an hour or so of your home and ones other vendors have recommended. You will not always know if the craftsperson who suggested a show has the same values as you until you check it out for yourself, so this is not always a concrete selection principle. But it's a place to start. If you belong to a craft guild or organization or subscribe to a trade journal, you may be able to get show recommendations there. Several websites are equipped with lists of local and national shows and all the contact information. Also log onto some of the craft forums where you can ask other crafters and look for some consensus on the best shows.

You will find information about where and when the show is and who to contact to apply. Once you call or check out their Web site, make sure you apply by the requested deadline. When you call the promoter of the show or visit their Web site if they have one, be sure to ask any of the questions you may have such as:

What was the attendance last year and what is this year's expected attendance? How many years have you been producing the show? How many booth spaces are there and how many applications do you receive? How do you assign booth spaces? What are the entry and jury fees? Are there any additional fees like % of gross, parking, electrical? Do I need any special licenses? What kinds of people attend your shows? What kinds of crafts do you select, who makes the selection and what are the bestsellers? What is the average price range of items exhibited? Sold? What are the average sales for exhibitors in my medium? What style is the show? What kind of promotion do you do prior to the show? Do I get some promotional materials? When do you notify the successful applicants? What happens if it rains or snows? What are the security arrangements? Any other support available?

A professional promoter should have this information and should be willing to share it with you. If they won't, you may be able to get it elsewhere--on the Internet or in some craft guides that are sold by subscription and have show reviews. Some shows request you send a self-addressed stamped envelope for the application. When you get it, you'll see the booth sizes, fees and what you need to submit. You also may receive a copy of the contract, which outlines your responsibilities as an exhibitor, such as whether or not the craftsperson must be present in the booth, what merchandise is and is not allowed in the booth, display requirements and for larger indoor shows, the rules regarding electricity, unions, fireproofing and the cancellation policy. Also, whether or not you need any special permits. Usually, your seller's permit is all that's required.

The best promoters are discriminating about who they select for their shows based on unique, original quality products and attractive displays, as shown in your photos or slides--which is why using a professional photographer is recommended by most craftspeople. They also look for a balanced variety of categories. Good vendors attract good customers and so everyone wins--the customer, the vendor and the promoter!

About the author: Natalie Goyette is the best selling author of Craft Show Success. Her e-book shows you how you can finally make money selling your crafts!

Left handed crochet help

Author: Kris Perry

Working crochet left-handed is just as easy as working it right-handed. The methods for forming the stitches and holding the hook and yarn remain the same; you simply use your left instead of right hand. Patterns and instructions are generally written for right-handed people.

Therefore, remember to substitute left for right and vice versa. This is the only adjustment you will need to make. The easiest way to learn crochet if you're left-handed is to sit opposite another crocheter and mirror their movements.

If you're using a book for instruction, you can take the illustrations to a copiers and ask them to make transfer image copies. This flips the images over. If looking at diagrams on the Internet, keep a mirror next to your monitor. Position it so that you can view your monitor through it. The mirror will flip the images to make them left hand interpreted. Alternately, use the right click function on your mouse over the image.

Any image-editing program, like Windows Paint, will allow you to reverse diagrams before printing out by doing a ""horizontal flip"". Usually though, it can be easier to change the settings on your printer so that it reverse or mirror image prints.

Sometimes, you may have to take a few minutes to prepare if you're a left hander, but the amount of effort is minimal and will save you hours that could be lost trying to figure out how to reverse instructions.

Copyright, http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced.

Beginning Introduction to Crochet

How to use crochet

Author: Kris Perry

A huge variety of free and commercial crochet patterns are available, covering a wide variety of uses. Changes in fashion mean that during different eras, different types of crocheted products are popular. Crocheted yokes were commonly made and sewn to the tops of dresses and nightgowns at the start of the twentieth century.

Today, those designs are more likely to be used for clothing for very young children. Simple shawls, ponchos and scarves are popular with many beginners, and sweaters, cardigans, coats and tops amongst those who prefer more of a challenge.

But the uses for crochet are almost endless. You can make hats; bags; edging patterns for pillows, tablecloths; curtains; mittens; baby clothes; dolls; blankets; hot water bottle covers. Items that can be knitted can also be crocheted.

Copyright, http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced. Gauge Crochet: http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com/gauge-crochet.html

Crochet History 1900s - 21st Century

Author: Kris Perry

Lavish crochet emerged alongside other forms of elaborate needlework in the nineteenth century. When printed materials began to be mass-produced in the mid-nineteenth century, the popularity of crochet increased vastly.

Patterns for silk thread purses were the first to have been published, from about 1824 in Holland. Prior to this date, crochet was passed to future generations without written patterns but rather duplicated from small crocheted samples.

Victorian crochet hooks were made of materials such as ivory, brass, various woods, and other bone material. They were often ornately carved, the most impressive often being given as wedding gifts. Crocheted bags, clothing and décor were all popular. Crochet was considered a suitable activity for wealthy women, along with other forms of needlework. Bead crochet began to appear on the market in the 1830s. Knitting with beads was already in fashion at this time.

Crochet became a cottage industry in Ireland with a lace called Irish crochet or guipure lace. In the mid-nineteenth century, it became a large industry owing to a need for people to supplement their income due to the great potato famine of that time. It is still a cottage industry in some countries such as India, Greece, Italy, and some Asian countries.

Crochet samplers dating from the nineteenth century are shown in many museums. A variety of crochet and knitting books were published from the mid-nineteenth century through the 1920s. Filet crochet became very popular from the 1850s.

Crochet continued to be popular into the early twentieth century. The 1920s brought a flood of bead crocheted bags with piles of bead loops to complete the flapper look. From 1937 through 1940's there were crochet contests for workmanship design and speed. The onset of World War II saw the craft halt, owing to shortages in available materials. Bead crochet bags were popular throughout the 1950's. Crochet became an accepted art form in the 1960s and more experimentation in textile art took place including international fiber shows. Crochet began to regain its popularity in the 1970s, when it became popular to wear crocheted items.

The 1980s and 1990s brought a renaissance of bead and thread crochet. In the early 1990s bead knitted bags gained popularity, which increased the demand for bead crocheted bags.

In 1994 thirty four million American women crocheted or knitted, in 2002 this figure had increased to thirty eight million.

Crochet today is mainly created by using soft yarns to produce garments and blankets. Although the crochet stitch can be made by machine, it continues to be a home craft.

Copyright, http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced. The Earliest info on Crochet: http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com/crochet-history-part1.html

Gauge crochet tip

Author: Kris Perry

Gauge is the number of stitches per inch and the number of rows per inch produced when working with a particular size of yarn and a specific hook. Gauge varies from crocheter to crocheter, even when they are using exactly the same yarn and hook. To get beyond this problem a swatch, or small sample piece is made in the stitch pattern using the size of yarn and hook. A swatch will help you determine if you meet the patterns intended gauge. For the best results, make a crocheted swatch of at least 6 inches square and then measure the stitches in the center of the swatch to determine gauge.

Often a crochet pattern doesn't suggest a gauge swatch. It may say instead 4 stitches and 4 rows = 1 inch. To make a swatch make about six inches of chain. Lay the piece flat on a table. Count how many stitches there are in one inch. This is your stitch gauge.

Next, count the number of rows in one inch. This is your row gauge. Row gauge becomes important, when complicated stitch patterns repeat after a number of rows. If the shaping must take place at a certain row and your row gauge is different from the pattern gauge, shaping won't be done at the proper time and your garment may not fit properly.

Usually, if your stitch gauge matches, the row gauge will be close enough for most purposes.

If your gauge is larger than the one described in the pattern, use a smaller hook try another swatch. If your swatch is smaller, then you'll need to increase your hook. As hooks vary between manufacturers, you may find that switching hook brand can help you to reach the right gauge.

-A swatch should be at least two inches square. -Always make a square swatch - it's easier to make an accurate count. -Try not to force your tension, but crochet just like you always do. -If you naturally crochet tightly, use a size larger hook than recommended. -If you naturally crochet loosely, use a size smaller hook than recommended. -If your foundation chain is too tight or too loose, begin the pattern with another size hook. -Always measure the swatch on a hard, flat surface.

Copyright, http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced. Use of Crochet: http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com/how-to-use-crochet.html

History of Crochet 1500 BC - 1820

Author: Kris Perry

Little is known of crochet's early history. It seems likely that the earliest crochet was made using fingers, rather than the hooks used today. There are theories that crochet could have existed as early as 1500 BC, as part of nun's work, which included needlepoint lace and bobbin lace.

There are three main theories for the origin of crochet. Some believe that it originated in Arabia and spread eastward to Tibet and then westward to Spain, finally following the Arab trade routes to other Mediterranean countries. Alternatively, it's thought to have originated in South America, where a primitive tribe used crochet adornments in puberty rites. Another alternative stems from the fact that in China, early examples were known of dolls worked in crochet.

However, there is no solid evidence as to how old crochet is or where it originated. The evidence of it appearing in the sixteenth century is slight, and hotly disputed. There are references to a type of ""chained trimming"" made around 1580. However this appears to have been a type of cord, sewn onto fabric like an ornamental braid.

During the Renaissance, women crocheted several strands of thread producing fabrics similar to lace.

The earliest evidence of crochet, as we know it, is first commonly seen in the second half of the eighteenth century. Crochet may have developed from Chinese needlework, an ancient form of embroidery known in Turkey, India, Persia and North Africa, which reached Europe in the eighteenth century, and was referred to as tambouring. The main theory behind the origin of crochet seems to be that it began when it was realized that chains worked in a pattern would hang together without background fabric. At the end of the eighteenth century, tambour evolved into what the French called crochet in the air, when the background fabric was discarded and the stitch worked on its own. Tambour hooks were as thin as sewing needles, and therefore the work must have been done with very fine thread.

Crochet began to emerge in Europe in the early nineteenth century, boosted by Mlle Riego de la Branchardiere, well known for her ability to take needle and bobbin lace designs and turn them into crochet patterns that could be duplicated. She published numerous patterns and also claimed to have invented lace-like crochet, today called Irish crochet.

A type of lace called cheyne lace was made with a hook from the late eighteenth century and a primitive form of crochet called pjonting can be found from about 1820.

Copyright, http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com

About the author: Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced. The Earliest info on Crochet: http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com/crochet-history-part2.html

Know These Important Things Before You Learn How To Knit

Author: B Hopkins

Copyright 2006 B Hopkins

Did you ever enjoy texture of yarns in your hand or wondering how that interesting color pattern was created in your favorite sweater? Then you will surely have fun learning the art of knitting. Knitting is one of several ways to turn thread or yarn into cloth-weaving and crochet. It's all about creativity.

The Introductory Steps of Knitting

Unlike woven fabric, knitted fabric consists entirely of horizontal parallel courses of yarn. The courses are joined to each other by interlocking loops in which a short loop of one course of yarn is wrapped over the bight of another course. Knitting can be done either by hand, described below, or by machine. What makes knitting even more exciting is the fact that this art can be easily learned.

In practice, hand knitting is usually begun by forming a base series of twisted loops of yarn on a needle. This is called Cast On. A second knitting needle is then used to reach through each loop in succession in order to snag a bight of yarn and pull a length back through the loop. This forms a new stitch. Work can proceed in the round (circular knitting) or by going back and forth in rows. Knitting can also be done by machines, which use a different mechanical system to produce nearly identical results.

Knitting Styles: There are two basic styles of knitting; English and Continental. The difference between the two is in how you hold the yarn. In the English method the yarn is held in the right hand. In continental knitting, the yarn is held in the left hand. Whatever your natural hand-preference, you should be able to master either method because the nature of knitting is basically ambidextrous.

The two basic stitches are knit or plain and purl or wrong. These two nominal stitches are actually identical, however, being the obverse and reverse of the same stitch. It is the variations and combinations of these two stitches that create all the different stitch patterns which are possible in knitting. Typically, a knit stitch is formed by inserting the needle in the front of the loop from a left-to-right perspective and pulling a loop of yarn through to form a new loop, while a purl stitch is formed by inserting the needle in the front of the loop from a right-to-left perspective.

A piece of knitting begins with the process of casting on, which involves the initial creation of the stitches on the needle. Casting on is the first step in knitting These stitches become the first row of stitches and one selvage of your work, usually the bottom or hem.

Different methods of cast on are used for different effects; one may be stretchy enough for lace, while another provides a decorative edging. Provisional cast on is used when the knitting will continue in both directions from the cast on.

The body of a knitted piece may include plain stitches or a number of colors and textured patterns. The number of active stitches remains the same as when cast on unless stitches are added -an increase or removed- a decrease to shape the item.

Patterns to Knit (Way to Online Income): There are lots of people who sit at home and publish great knitting patters from home. Since over the years they have collected and modified many knitting patterns. They make a great income by selling/publishing the patterns on the net. Once you have enough practice, even you could make some online income.

Many patterns can be made by using knit and purl stitches in various combinations. If only knits or only purls are used when working back and forth in rows, the result is called garter stitch.

Alternating rows of knits and purls result in stockinette stitch, also known as stocking or jersey stitch, the stitch most often used in commercial garments such as T-shirts. Different combinations of stitches can be used to form ribbing, cables, or other textures.

Once the knitted piece is finished, the remaining live stitches are cast off. Casting or binding off loops the stitches across each other so they can be removed from the needle without unraveling the item. Although the mechanics are different from casting on, there are a similar variety of methods and choices to be made. Of the various methods the most versatile are the Plain Bind-off and the Suspended Bind-off.

Knitted garments are most commonly made in pieces, where individual sections of the garment are knit separately and then sewn together once all the pieces have been completed. Seamless knitting, where a whole garment is knit as a single piece is also possible. Smaller items, such as socks and hats are usually knit in one piece on double pointed needles.

Knitting can be easily learned these days as there are many websites on knitting and also various books for beginners available on the market, where you can find step by step instructions. These instructions are so easy to follow that even kids would not find them difficult at all. Show your creativity, grab your knitting tools and learn to knit today!

About the author: Do you want to learn how to knit? For more articles on knitting and crochet, go to the knittinginfosite.com. Find knitting and crochet articles, knitting resources and other items usefull for knitters. http://knittinginfosite.com (This article is a http://Drivetraffictomywebsite.com creation)

History of embroidery

Author: Donna Somerkin

Embroidery is an age old art form that has decorated clothing, bedding, and household goods for hundreds of years. Using colored threads to create patterns has dated back to the time of ancient Egypt, when women sewed metallic threads into clothing for decoration. The trend caught on with Babylonians, Phoenicians, and Hebrews, who all began incorporating embroidered pieces into their clothing.

The oldest embroidered piece in existence is the world famous Bayeux Tapestry, dating from approximately 1066. Although the piece is called a tapestry, it is actually as embroidered composition reaching an astounding 231 feet long. Recalling the Battle of Hastings, the piece still hangs in the town of Bayeux in the province of Normandy in France. This beautiful embroidered piece is though to have been created by over 100 noble women in the town and is speculated to take several years to complete.

European embroidery changed a great deal over the years, but became a highlight of fashion during the 18th Century in France. These elaborate embroidery designs--often made with metallic and silk threads--decorated everything from women's dresses to men's breeches. This style soon caught on in popularity with the rest of the continent and soon men, women, and children were wearing heavily embroidered fashion. The decoration also served as a symbol of status and wealth in addition to simply adding glitz and glamour to the garments.

Embroidery continued in popularity and soon became a right of passage for girls to be taught by their mothers the time tested stitches and often completed a lovely sampler to showcase the different stitches and techniques. These samplers were passed down for generations and have been sold at auction for phenomenal amounts. Another popular use of embroidery was to dress up homely clothing. Often, homespun cloth or poor quality purchased cloth was the most a family could afford to outfit the members, so the matron of the house embroidered the clothing to make the outfits look fancier.

The end of the 19th Century saw founding of embroidery shops where scores of women completed the delicate stitches by hand. The year 1880 saw the advent of the first embroidery machine, which further mechanized the embroidery shops and produced even more products. Switzerland soon became the forerunner in embroidery designs and technology, with the United States in second, as shops popped up in New York City and Chicago.

Although the times have changed, the embroidery stitches and techniques have remained the same. Technology has greatly advanced and left the 1880s embroidery machine in the dust. Today's machines can replicate thousands of pattern by just a simple push of a button.

About the author: Donna Somerkin specializes in Embroidery Machines http://www.embroidery-machines-1.com

Georgeous Knit Scarves

Author: Mary Bailis

With cold weather upon us, it's time to update your wardrobe with a new gorgeous knit scarf. They are a hot item for the season and what a great looking accessory item to keep you warm. Look for them in so many different yarns, colors and styles. This is the year for the knit scarves so put away the old plain Jane's back in storage. The question is, do you buy one or make your own.

Personally, I like the hand made one's made by yours truly, myself. I enjoy having that one of a kind accessory item that looks great. With the huge selection of beautiful yarns out there I just had to pick up my knitting needles and dust them off. They've been non-stop ever since. You can find yarn at all the local craft store's; AC Moore, Jo-Anne Fabrics, Michael's to name a few as well as their websites. Some of them will offer classes, or will have representative's near the yarn aisle to help you get started and answer any questions. All the top yarn companies have very informative website's to help you get started also. They have an amazing selection of free, yes free patterns that you can print off and use at your disposal. Lion Brand, http://www.lionbrand.com even has a how to section. I forgot how to ""cast off"" and it has step by step instructions that set me on my way. All the patterns have very clear instructions on how to knit or crochet and what supplies to purchase. I have made several myself and found them all very easy to follow. They even have the famous Martha Stewart Poncho pattern available online. I wanted one and don't crochet so I forwarded the pattern to my mother. She so graciously made some for me. I get endless compliments whenever I wear it. I have now ventured off making my own patterns. What can I say, I've got the knitting bug or should I say yarn bug! It's the yarns that pull you in to buying so much. There really is an amazing selection out there. You can find; cashmere, wool, fun fur, metallics, sequence, curly, fuzzy, you name it they have it. So pick up those knitting needles and get making those scarves. You'll get the bug too and will end up making them for everyone you know!

For those of you who have no interest in making a scarf or just don't have the knack for it, there is still hope. Many stores offer a decent selection of knit scarves but you will find a limited selection in the yarn styles. I recommend attending one of the many craft fairs being offered in your area. To look for top quality vendors, look for the juried shows or ones that are very selective in choosing their vendors. You will definitely get a higher quality of vendors and therefore a higher quality of products. There are some very artistic and talented knitters out there selling their wares. Artistic people not only like to make great products but really like selling them to others to enjoy. I get excited when someone buy's one of my scarves and can't wait to wear it. They always come back for more to buy as gifts to share their great find. Another place to shop for knit scarves is at your local art galleries. They consign artist work and stock plenty of gift items as well as artwork. They will have a high quality of vendors. But do hurry, the stores currently are clearing out their winter merchandise for Spring clothing.

Get a gorgeous knit scarf while you can or get those knitting needles going and enjoy getting the knitting but!

About the author: Mary Bailis is a designer and owner of http://www.AlexiHandbags.com an online custom handbag and scarf boutique. Her designs were originally shown in exclusive art shows and trunk shows. Customer demand brought forth the website. She enjoys reading, being creative, exercising, nature and spending as much time with her three beautiful children.

How To Learn About Needlepoint On The Web In 2 Easy Steps

Author: Roger Wembley

This may come as a surprise to you, but there are people other than your grandmother who enjoy needlepoint as a hobby. Needlepoint has been around since the beginning of time but that doesn't mean that you can't become an expert at it. In fact, we're pretty sure that if you focus enough of your energy at a certain hobby you can become an expert in just about anything. You can find just about anything you want on the internet. In fact, if you think it might be an exciting hobby, chances are someone has thought that before you did. Let's take a look at needlepoint and how to get acquainted with the hobby.

1) Use the major search engines to search for these phrases: ""needlepoint beginner,"" o ""needlepoint tutorial,"" or ""how to learn needlepoint."" Be sure and use quotes for the last phrase- it makes all the difference in finding that exact phrase. There are people starting new hobbies all the time and you aren't going to be the only one interested in needlepoint. In fact, a quick search for just the term ""needlepoint"" returns more than 2.6 Million results in Google. If term needlepoint has been written at least 2.6million times on the web, you can be sure that there are others that have written a basic tutorial in getting started on the hobby.

2) Use DMOZ. Here is a trick that not everyone is going to tell you because they just don't know about it (and that I've taken from another hobby). Visit Dmoz.org. Dmoz is an Open Directory edited by humans. If a site has been included in Dmoz, that means that a human has reviewed the site and decided that it is good enough to be included in the Dmoz directory. Usually, only real quality sites are added to the Dmoz directory as all the editors work for free and pride themselves on only including the best sites on the web.

We've notice that when we are looking for something (in this case, needlepoint), nothing beat dmoz.org as a great place to start. Start your quest at dmoz, then visit our site to learn all about needlepoint in easy step by step tutorials.

About the author: Roger Wembley is author of ""Learn Needlepoint."" Grab your copy at http://www.needlepointastic.com

History of Needlepoint

Author: Jo kefford

There are conflicting opinions as to the terms describing needlepoint. The differences may result from the fact that needlepoint has come down to us from various countries and in various stitches. Briefly, needlepoint is embroidery on canvas, the most common stitch is half of a cross-stitch, which is also called 'Tent stitch'.

Needlepoint-tapestry is an often-used expression which shows the relation of needlepoint to the tapestry designs of the middle ages. This is especially true when the needlepoint is worked in an upright Gobelin stitch, which gives the effect of woven tapestry.

This early work was done on a loosely-woven material like coarse linen. Later, canvases were made specifically for the purpose; both in single thread canvas, or with threads arranged in pairs to make 'double thread canvas'. This was often worked in needlepoint combining the fine petit point stitch, used for detailed shading, with gros point used for large flat design areas. To make this combination, the double thread canvas was 'split' - that is, the meshes opened with a needle or pin to form a single thread canvas for working in petit point.

As with all forms of embroidery it is very difficult to give exact dates, and even places where the technique originated. Canvas work dates back to the sixteenth century, but reached its peak during the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. Needlepoint was extremely popular in Colonial America where it was used for pictures, as an upholstery fabric, and for fashion accessories.

During the Victorian era, Berlin work came into popularity. It is often characterized by brilliant worsteds and combinations of geometric and floral designs. The majority of designs were developed as hand-painted patterns on squared paper, especially made for copying in needlepoint or cross-stitch on canvas. The best of these designs came from Berlin, hence the name.

It then became popular again in the late twenties, and continues to increase in popularity with a renewed interest in handicrafts. Designs and ready-to-sew packs are available in many speciality shops all over the country.

About the author: Jo Kefford has been creating needlework for many years, and loves to encourage others to renew their creative flair. For more top tapestry and canvas work tips, visit http://www.toptapestry.com . All the sources of inspiration you need to complete your very own masterpiece.

How to Learn About Needlepoint On The Web in 2 Easy Steps

Author: Roger Wembley

This may come as a surprise to you, but there are people other than your grandmother who enjoy needlepoint as a hobby. Needlepoint has been around since the beginning of time but that doesn't mean that you can't become an expert at it. In fact, we're pretty sure that if you focus enough of your energy at a certain hobby you can become an expert in just about anything. You can find just about anything you want on the internet. In fact, if you think it might be an exciting hobby, chances are someone has thought that before you did. Let's take a look at needlepoint and how to get acquainted with the hobby.

1)Use the major search engines to search for these phrases: ""needlepoint beginner,"" o ""needlepoint tutorial,"" or ""how to learn needlepoint."" Be sure and use quotes for the last phrase- it makes all the difference in finding that exact phrase. There are people starting new hobbies all the time and you aren't going to be the only one interested in needlepoint. In fact, a quick search for just the term ""needlepoint"" returns more than 2.6 Million results in Google. If term needlepoint has been written at least 2.6million times on the web, you can be sure that there are others that have written a basic tutorial in getting started on the hobby.

2)Use DMOZ. Here is a trick that not everyone is going to tell you because they just don't know about it (and that I've taken from another hobby). Visit Dmoz.org. Dmoz is an Open Directory edited by humans. If a site has been included in Dmoz, that means that a human has reviewed the site and decided that it is good enough to be included in the Dmoz directory. Usually, only real quality sites are added to the Dmoz directory as all the editors work for free and pride themselves on only including the best sites on the web. We've notice that when we are looking for something (in this case, needlepoint), nothing beat dmoz.org as a great place to start. Start your quest at dmoz, then visit our site to learn all about needlepoint in easy step by step tutorials.

About the author: Roger Wembley is author of ""Learn Needlepoint ."" Grab your copy at http://www.needlepointastic.com

Leather Craft Classes

Author: Jake Berlin

If you are interested in learning how to make undeniably great leather products, you can enjoy classes to make anything from shoes to handbags to gun straps, and much, much more! You can find more opportunities on the Internet but I have put together a list of some organizations that offer leather-making classes that I would highly recommend:

YWCA / YMCA

ywca.com or ymca.com Most people think of these notational oganizations as being places to learn how to swim or where they can enjoy a good aerobics class. While both the YMCA and YWCA do offer these types of activities, they offer incredible classes that include leather making.

All you need to do is visit the website listed to find an organization where you live. Some of the classes offered include design and making of leather shoes, belts, handbags, hats, wallets, and more. The prices may vary but on average, you can expect to pay around $150 to $250 for a four- to six-week class.

jmwillowwinds.com/classes/classes.html

This company offers classes for many different types of leather making, which includes an excellent opportunity on how to make shoes and handbags from a skilled leather maker. In these classes, you will learn to design and construct shoes such as pumps, sandals, oxfords, and loafers. They also offer both a beginner and intermediate class. The classes run around $300 for 10 sessions.

heritan.com

If you live in Michigan and are interested in tanning, this is the place to take classes. The instructor is highly skilled and has many of his pieces seen on the big screen in movies such as Legend of the Falls and Thunderheart. You will learn the art of tanning hide using the traditional method of brain tanning and will have an awesome finished skin to take home.

One of the most popular classes is the ""Brain-Tanned Buffalo Robe"" class. If you are serious about tanning, you can tan a buffalo and make a wonderful finished product such as a bedroll.

tandyleather.com

With operations in Canada and Texas, Tandy Leather has been in business since 1991. At this company, you can buy leather wholesale and receive a guarantee on all your purchases. In addition to selling, they also offer classes in leather making.

advleather.com

They offer basic and advanced courses in the repair and restoration of leather furniture, automotive leathers, and other leather-uphostered items.

*** Hey! Want To Make Something Out Of Leather? *** Discover How To Make Leather Crafts for Fun and Profit Click Here ==> Leather Craft

About the author: Jake's love of leather and the constant questions drove him to write everything down.

Scrapbooking: Fastest Growing Craft Activity

Author: Adam Daniels

According to several recent polls conducted by industry leaders, scrapbooking is one of the fastest growing craft activities.

The latest demographics show the following trends:

- 98% of scrapbookers are females between 30 and 59 years old. Among the age groups who responded to the surveys, scrapbooking, rubber-stamping and paper crafting attract the various generations fairly equally.

- 85% of the respondents are married, and only about 14% do not have children.

- 95% have at least ""some college"" or attended a trade school.

- 65% of the respondents have college or post-graduate degrees.

- 53% are working full time (40+ hours per week). Another 38% work part time (between 20 -39 hours per week). About 12% of the respondents are retired.

- 85% have incomes over $50,000, and 62% said their annual incomes are over $75,000.

- An interesting fact is that the majority of the respondents (96%) reported that they had been scrapbooking for more than a year. Of those, nearly one quarter had been scrapbooking for at least three years and nearly one third for at least five years.

- On average, 75% of the respondents reported that they had spent more than $500 over the past 12 months on scrapbooking supplies, and 42% reported spending more than $1000.

Interestingly, 74% of the respondents also are involved in rubber-stamping, 46% enjoy paper crafts and 27% say they are involved in Painting/decorative painting. All three of these crafts can, and are used to enhance many scrapbooking projects. Other crafts that scrapbookers are involved with include: Seasonal Crafts (41%), General Crafts (34%), Sewing (fashion/home decorating), Needlework (26%), Quilting (20%), Knitting/Crocheting (17%) and Jewelry Making (10%).

According to the Hobby Industry Association, retail sales for the scrapbooking industry climbed from $400 million in 1997 to $2.5 billion in 2003. Although the industry is still growing, it's becoming more difficult for independent dealers to make a profit, and oftentimes, any profits made by the smaller ""mom and pop"" stores must be put back into the business. As the industry has flourished, competition from large corporations has increased.

One of the biggest competitors in the industry is the craft store giant Michael's, operating about 867 stores in 48 states and Canada. Consumers feel that Michael's has a great inventory of supplies which are easy to find and fun for the whole family to use.

Successful independent scrapbooking retailers insist that it's possible to compete with the giants by being smart and planning for success. They recommend:

- Offer specialized services.

- Don't put all your eggs in one basket - offer a variety of services and products.

- Become the best at what you do.

In addition to a retail store, craft business owners should build a strong Web presence. The business model should include workshops, craft nights and scrapbooking parties. Look for markets in your area that have not been tapped, such as specific minority groups or new scrapbookers.

Industry insiders insist that the scrapbooking market is still growing and that there is room for anyone who is interested in starting a career. The best advice before starting any business is to conduct careful research and do the necessary preplanning. That way you will know what you are getting into before you start.

About the author: Adam Daniels offers a Free Video on Scrapbooking. You can view it at http://www.ScrapBookProfit. com

Hanging On By Teddy's Thread

Author: Marvic

Victoria Koning from Marvic Tours and Tales was deeply saddened after reading a news article, dated the 16th June 2005, which stated that 50 children get raped every day in South Africa. She found the words almost incomprehensible ... and quite devestating. But a small glimmer of hope was found when she learned about the Mother Bear Project (http://www.motherbearproject.org).

Amy Berman founded the Mother Bear Project, which requests that volunteers knit a teddy bear based on her mother's World War II pattern. The teddy bear then gets a little face and red felt heart sewn on to it and is shipped off to a little child in South Africa, and other countries.

Berman had read a similar article about these children getting raped, ""I could not just close the magazine and continue with my everyday life knowing there were children in such pain,"" said Berman. ""I knew I could not solve the 'big problem' from here, but I thought maybe I could bring awareness of this problem and provide comfort to the young victims in the form of a teddy,"" she said. "I believe every bear has a story, and we only hear a few of the thousands.

"In Zambia, a little 7-year old girl who had AIDS was being stigmatised by her peers because it was known she had the disease. She stopped going to school and before she died she asked that she be buried with her bear because it was her only friend."

"One 8-year old boy in South Africa who was living in a child-headed household, had to evacuate his home with his siblings a few months ago during torrential rains because his home was falling apart. He told his sister that he had to go and get his bear. His teen sister told him not to go because he would be risking his life. He said he had to because the bear had a heart on it and that meant someone loved him. He did get his bear before his home was totally destroyed."

Koning contacted Berman to express her heart-felt thanks and appreciation of what was being done, and asked how they [Marvic] could be of help. Berman replied, "I am always touched by hearing from others who find out about this project and want to help. It is incredible how the Internet can bring people together." Berman continued, "I have now sent over 6,300 bears from knitters all over the U.S. and the world. These knitters have ranged in age from 8 - 97 years old, and they come from all faiths and backgrounds. Each person has their own reason for knitting a bear, and I feel like it is my primary duty to make sure these bears are given out unconditionally as they were intended."

In response to how Marvic and others can help, Berman replied, "People can send for a pattern and knit bears...I ask $3 and a self-addressed envelope (stamped if in the U.S.) be sent to: Mother Bear Project, P.O. Box 62188, Minneapolis, MN 55426, U.S.A. This $3 helps to pay to ship the bears and pay duty fees on the receiving end. I send each knitter a pattern and a tag. If the knitters make more than 1 bear, I ask that they send $3 for the extra bears. There are many knitters who cannot afford to pay for their bears and I will always accept the bears without money. I always need donations for shipping the bears and for all the expenses such as the P.O. Box, shipping supplies, trademark fees, printing expenses (brochures, etc) and all the costs of the things it takes to keep this project going strong. I pay the duty fees on the receiving end because I believe the people giving out the bears should not be financially burdened. I do not use the money for anything except the project expenses. I work full time in addition to running this project. All donations are tax deductible."

Marvic aims to help increase awareness of this worthy project and the full article can be read at http://www.marvic.biz/tales/newroom/NL0506ART02.htm.

About the author: Marvic Tours and Tales promotes authentic eco-cultural safari adventures in South Africa and offers free online infotainment at http://www.marvic.biz.

The truth about thread counts!

Author: Patricia Bowlin

A generation ago, no home maker worried about thread counts!

Thread counts have become one of the deciding factors for many people when they're buying bed linens today though. The truth about thread counts may seem a bit difficult to understand. It doesn't have to! More than just the thread count affects how bedding feels and how comfortable you will be when sleeping with it on your bed. Let's check into this alittle bit. Then you can make informed decisions about your bedding when you're ready to purchase again.

Our grandparents and parents slept on lower thread count cotton sheets and did just fine, right? These sheets were serviceable, but could feel abit thin and unsubstantial by our standards these days.

Today, bed linens can be found from a lowly 120 thread count up to as high as 1200. Who knows, maybe even higher soon!

Is all this talk about thread counts much ado about nothing? Well, the answer is yes and no. Thread count alone will not tell you how bedding will feel to the touch or how well it will hold up over long years of use.

The feel of bedding, what the sheets feel like on your skin, is known as ""hand"" or ""handle"". The hand of the bedding does have something to do with thread count, but that's not the only factor. The way the bedding is woven and the content of the fabric have a lot to do with the hand of the bedding. The character, or individuality of a material includes how the fabric drapes, the elasticity, softness and fineness of how that particular sheet feels.

The ply is a factor that defines the number of single yards which are twisted to become the ply yard from which the bedding is woven. By twisting these single yards together to form the ply yard, the fabric is more resilient and long lasting. The ply yarns are twisted together to form cord- and the cord is the actual material used in the weaving process.

Finish is another characteristic of bedding which affects how it will feel to the skin. Percale is a plain weave of cotton or polyester/cotton blended yarns. This finish usually uses a higher thread count and a finer yarn. Sateen is another finish for cotton fabric that is woven in such as way that the surface is smooth and lustrous, reminding us of satin. Flannel is a brushed fiber finish which is quite warm, soft and cuddly- it can be created from 100% cotton fibers or a polyester/cotton blend.

Now that we know a bit about what makes one sheet different from another sheet, let's get the facts go back to the facts about thread count. The actual definition of thread count is the number of threads per square inch of fabric going horizontal and vertical. Generally speaking, the higher thread count materials will have softer textures- or hands. However, the bedding has to be viewed from an overall standpoint and take into account the fabric composition and the finish to determine how soft a sheet will actually be.

The most favored thread counts in bed linens today are in the 200 to 600 range. The best combination of softness and durability are found in this range.

However, a 200 thread count cotton sheet woven with a sateen finish can be softer and more luxurious feeling than a 400 or 600 count sheet of standard cotton in a plain weave. Egyptian cotton, which has a longer fiber than other cottons, when woven into a 200 thread count sateen finish sheet may feel more luxurious and softer than either of the other choices.

Single ply sheets of top quality cotton may feel more luxurious than double ply sheets. The only real means of rating how a sheet will feel to you is to touch it.

Look for what features are most important to you when selecting your next set of bed linens.

If you want few or no wrinkles, choose a polyester/cotton blend. Less crisp, less cool than cotton.

If you like the feel of satin or silk, but don't like sliding off the bed, choose a 100% cotton sateen weave. =) If you like the extra warm feel of flannel, select brushed cotton or flannel finish- but be aware that this weave often pills quickly after only a few washings. (Look for the highest ounce weight fabric you can find to minimize this). Percale often softens more and more as it is washed again and again. Simple, elegant, cool. Egyptian cotton is King, with the longest cotton fibers available to date. Supima cotton is also excellent, with a tiny bit shorter fiber length. Either of them becomes softer and even more sumptuous with each washing! You can't go wrong no matter what with either.

It's important to choose bed linens that you find feel good to you rather than select based on some designer theory of thread count. So, don't be taken in by a high price tag. Just because a sheet costs a lot doesn't necessarily mean it will feel any better than a less expensive sheet.

Patricia Bowlin informs and entertains you as you shop for your home bedding! Find out everything you need to know about chosing the perfect pillows, bed linens, blankets, comforters, and other

bedding here now.

About the author: Patricia Bowlin is an entrepenuer, writer and researcher who loves to share her tips, sense of humor, advice and ideas on creating the perfect bedroom sanctuary. Get hundreds of useful tips, advice and ideas now by visiting http://www.best-in-bedding.com

7 Magic Trick Tips using Invisible Thread

Author: Dion Semeniuk

SEVEN MAGIC TRICK TIPS USING INVISIBLE THREAD

Have you ever been to a magic show, sitting there mesmerized as you asked yourself, "How did they do that?" As you know, magic is more an illusion, creating the vision that something is happening although it is not. While magicians use many different tools of the trade, one of the most popular is the invisible thread. Trying to get magicians to divulge their secrets associated with the invisible thread is near impossible. However, we do want to provide you with some highlights and tips about the top seven magic trick tips performed using invisible thread.

What is "Invisible Thread"?

The first of the seven magic trick tips using invisible thread is to understand what it is. This type of thread is actually a very fine stand of nylon used primarily for getting small objects to levitate. For years, magicians worked with invisible thread and their hands only, meaning they had to be very precise in their movements for the magic tricks to appear flawless. Today, magicians can use an invisible thread reel, which not only dispenses the thread but it is also designed to retract it. Because of this, the magician is able to maintain a constant tension on the line so there are no mishaps in the performance.

Invisible Thread Reel Size

The second tip when using a thread reel is to use the appropriate size. Since different objects need different types of control, thread reels are made in a number of different sizes. Typically, the longer the tube the more distance you will get from the reel while the more tension the less distance. For magicians, the idea is to use the smaller size invisible thread reels for close-up work opposed to a larger reel for distance. As far as size, a stage reel is capable of extending 35 feet, which means a magician could easily perform a "floating bill" trick in the center of a room with no nearby walls. However, if you want to really impress a crowd, you could perform the same floating bill trick outdoors simply by anchoring the reel to the ground. With this, it would appear the trick was impossible and the crown cheers.

What about Tension?

Third on the list of seven trick tips using invisible thread is using the right tension. As you pull the invisible thread out of the reel, there will be an increase in tension. What happens at some point is that the pull will become too much for the thread, causing it to break. If you want to put more tension on the thread reel, wind more of the invisible thread into a wax ball. What you do not want to do is add additional winds on the elastic, which would only make it cumbersome.

Floating Objects

Next on the list is insight into working with floating objects. When using invisible thread for a magic trick, keep in mind that you want something that is light enough not to sag by putting too much weight on the thread. The key is to choose objects that you can easily move and maintain in a position in space, which is why the floating bill is such a popular choice. Other choices to use an invisible thread magic trick include ring fingers, an empty soda can, etc. The greatest benefit of using a thread reel is that when you walk away from your floating object, you are actually transferring energy to the reel, which can then be used to make the bill float from the floor to your hand – magically.

Those Darn Lights

Next, to use invisible thread, you have to know how to use correct lighting. If you are a magician or just practicing to be one and you want to perform tricks with the invisible thread, remember that lighting is crucial. The two main factors to consider when using the thread reel are light source and clothing. Typically, the best conditions for a magic trick with invisible thread are cloudy days and the worst, direct lighting that comes from behind you. With this, the light will only reflect off the thread, thus being seen by the audience. For clothing, anything dark will serve as a backdrop for the thread, thus making it easier to see. For this reason, you should go with lighter, non-reflective type clothing. Magic is always fun and with some practice, you will soon learn a number of magic tricks with invisible thread, perfect for entertaining family and friends.

Methodology

The sixth of the seven magic trick tips using invisible thread has to do with methods of performing the tricks, such as the Hoop Pass. This is actually considered one of the greatest tricks you can do with the invisible thread reel, which involves passing a solid hoop over a bill. The key is to use a ring with a relatively thick stock, which will put less strain on the thread as it goes over the metal hoop. Lay the hoop on the thread so it is between you and the floating bill. Then, with your hand, scoop the ring through so the thread is now on the back of the left hand. Next, use the right hand to pass the hoop over the bill. To complete the trick, all you do is let the thread slide off from the back of your hand. Remember, this is just one of many methods used with the invisible thread, so have fun practicing them all.

Finishing the Show

The final tip is that whatever trick being performed using invisible thread and/or a reel, it should never kill the effect. In other words, you want to keep your audience wanting more. If you carry a trick on too far, you will lose the interest of the audience so it would be far better to keep the tricks short and sweet. In addition, put some meaning and emphasis in your performances to leave your audience with a memory of your magic ability. We recommend you use the invisible thread late in your show, which will end the performance on a fun note.

About the author: Dion Semeniuk is the owner of the popular online magic shop, This is Magic, which specialize in Invisible Thread Magic. To receive 4 free magic tricks and learn more about the ITR, visit http://www.thisismagic.com

How to run a quilt swap

Author: Michelle Steel

Lots of quilters enjoy participating in a swap. The main aim of a swap is to get more of the particular object that you are swapping. Considering we are talking to quilters here, the things that they like to swap include, charm squares, completed blocks or pieces of fabric. To organise a swap you'll need participants firstly. These are easily recruited through your own quilt groups. You must have a theme to the swap that entices more people to join. Keep the rules simple so that people understand what they are doing. Rules for swaps include the size, shape, design or colour of the fabric/block to be swapped. For instance, you could organise a swap of blue and white, 6.5"" nine patches. You find out how many people are interested in participating, and that's how many blocks each person makes. One for themselves, and one for everyone else. Set a deadline for the swap to be finished and that's about it. Other things to consider are these. Is this a centralised swap or not? A centralised swap is where the swap hostess collects all of the items on the due date, swaps them all about, and redistributes them to the participants so each person has one of everything. The hostess needs to be organised and not mind spending a lot of time sorting it out. A non-centralised swap is where each individual sends/gives each other person involved in the swap their own item. If you are posting, this can become costly. If there is a person who drops out and doesn't contribute, then you don't always get the same amount back that you sent. Are you swapping blocks? Give a good description of the block that everyone is making. Include instructions. Make sure that it is within every ones sewing ability. Be very clear on the colours to use, if this is important. Be clear on what the finished measurements of the block should be. Be prepared to accept blocks that might not be sewn well, remember that there are all levels of ability out there, and we should encourage more quilters to join these activities. Variations on a block swap. Have the same block every month but change the colour scheme. Change the fabric every month to relate to a social calendar ie, Christmas fabric for December, hearts for February. Give each person the choice of block that they would like, and give them their blocks on their birthday. Choose a theme for the blocks such as hearts, stars etc. Are you swapping fabrics? Decide on what size the fabric should be. Fat quarters are nice, but you may want to take into account peoples finances. Choose a colour scheme for the swap. Often it's hard to find a particular colour, so if everyone in the swap provides 8 FQ's of one yellow fabric, and there are 8 people in the swap, everyone should end up with 8 different yellow fabrics. An excellent way to increase those bare spots in the stash. Rules for this sort of swap need to specify quality of fabric, to pre-wash or not, and believe it or not, some people are allergic to cat hair and cigarette smoke and we all know that these permeate the fabrics. Are you swapping Charm Squares? This is a great way to get lots of fabrics for those quilts that just need scraps. Decide how many different fabrics should be in each pack. Then you provide one pack for each participant. If there are twenty 10"" squares per pack, and 10 people in the swap, each person will end up with 200 different fabrics. Excellent. Rules for this swap are similar to fabric swaps. You'll need to be exact with the cutting measurements, just in case people want to sew the squares together as is. A good way to use up the fabrics in your stash that you may not wish to keep anymore. Other things that you can swap include buttons, signature squares, or hand made items such as pincushions, Christmas ornaments and place mats. The variations on a swap are endless. Just be prepared to join in, accept what you receive in the spirit it is sent and you'll have loads of fun, and make new friends too.

About the author: Manager - Patchwork Interactive www.patchworkinteractive.com.au

Choosing Embroidery Thread

Author: George Royal

Selecting the right type of threads for any embroidery work is important because the color and texture of the design, and eventually the look of the final product depend on the material and type of thread used. There's a wide variety of embroidery thread to choose from, so take your time to decide what type or combination should be best for the design you have in mind. More importantly, thread selections should be based on Sewability, Seam Performance and Appearance, Availability and Cost.

Types:

1. Rayon: This type of thread has a great sheen, and so the best looking embroidery designs are stitched with it. Rayon threads can range from combinations of two or more colors twisted together thereby forming a single strand, to one solid color strand. They are widely available, mostly in standard 40 wt. and 30 wt. Even though Rayon is the most popular type, it's not very sturdy because of its thinness.

2. Polyester: Polyester thread is more durable than Rayon but it is not as attractive. However, this type of embroidery thread hardly shrinks or fades, and if combined with Rayon, the effect they provide is nearly indistinguishable. It is also cheaper than Rayon thread.

3. Cotton: Cotton thread allows for a wide range of tension adjustments because of its texture. It has a nice sheen, is quite sturdy (though finer threads above 50 wt. are not), and typically used for machine embroidery.

4. Silk: Silk embroidery thread hardly breaks and has its own unique, and probably the best sheen. Threads come in various sizes but their availability is low so they are mostly used for luxury fabrics.

5. Metallic Thread: This type of thread has a core wrapped with a metal foil which may be coated with silver alloy, and color is added to this foil with a polyester film which may also be applied as an undercoating. Metallic thread is one of the most durable available on the market.

6. Mylar Thread: Plies of film are combined into a layer, cut into slices to create Mylar threads. They are durable but may break under high-speed sewing. One unique color feature is holographic hue, which picks up and reflects light or color from other surrounding objects. This really enhances the color and design of the embroidery.

7. Special-effect: Like the name suggests, this type of thread can be used to create different design effects, such as crewel-like effect. Some of the special effect threads change colors under sunlight, or may glow in the dark.

Quality Evaluation:

1. Tensile Strength: The tensile strength of an embroidery thread can be tested by sawing a suspended strand with another strand back and forth until the first strand breaks. The faster it breaks, the lower the strength and quality of that particular thread type.

2. Elongation: A good thread must have the right amount of stretch. Take a piece of the thread and stretch it till it breaks. The strand should neither break too quickly nor stretch for too long.

3. Sheen: The luster and quality of the sheen can be tested by studying the color and design of a finished embroidery product.

About the author: Embroidery HQ offers articles, tips and tricks about embroidery.

Thread

Author: Saurya Ghosal

The most common size of thread is size 10. The higher the number the thinner the thread. Thinner sizes go down to 100. Thread is generally available down to size 30 or 40.

Some thread crochet items need to be a particular size, and therefore you need to use the size of thread recommended in the pattern. Other items such as edgings can be made in the size of thread you prefer.

It can take a while to get used to using finer thread. One way is to gradually work downward, rather than switching between a fine thread project and a heavier size. The size of thread you're currently working with comes to feel normal to you.

You may have to look around to find good quality thread, but it's worth spending a little extra money on. There are a number of differences between types of threads.

Luster means a shimmery, satiny shine. Mercerization is a chemical process done to thread, which chemically burns the fuzz off and hopefully makes it shimmer. Almost all crochet thread is mercerized.

Fuzzy thread can feel soft, but fuzz works against luster, so things made from fuzzy thread won't have a satiny shine when completed. The major problem with fuzzy thread is that it makes your finished work more likely to attract and hold dust, pet hair, and other fluff. Items made from fuzzy thread tend to get fuzzier with even gentle washing.

Better quality thread has more twist. A thread with insufficient twist can cause you to split stitches and it can separate in your finished work giving a stringy look. Thread without enough twist gets increasingly fuzzy as you stitch. Thread with a good twist stays smooth and even and retains its luster.

There are two reasons for thread to feel stiff. Some have some a sort of starch or sizing on them. Others have such an intense twist. Tightly twisted thread bends well but starchy threads bend awkwardly, making stitches look uneven. Starchy thread can also leave a residue on your hands. Some crocheters like this kind of pre-starched thread, because it saves having to starch work afterwards.

Six-cord cotton comes apart into three plies, each made up of two smaller plies twisted together in the opposite direction. They are smooth, dense, and shiny and not fuzzy. Perle cotton is meant for embroidery, but can be used for crochet. However, you should only use it only for items that don't get much wear. As it has a gentle twist, it doesn't wear well.

About the author: Saurya Ghosal for http://www.learncrochet.org Read more about Crochet http://www.learncrochet.org/Where-to-buy-crochet-supplies.html Copyright 2005 http://www.learncrochet.org

Organizing a Sewing Room

Author: Kathleen Elias

5 Solutions for Organizing a Sewing Room - Spend less time searching for supplies and more time sewing!

Whether sewing is a relaxing hobby or an income-generating profession, you can make organizing a sewing room into a fun and productive project. If you are lucky enough to have a room just for sewing, then you will have more flexibility in your organizing design, but if you need to share this room with a home office or guest bedroom, then you will need to keep some considerations in mind while organizing a sewing room.

Before you begin organizing, make a thorough inventory list of all the items you need in your sewing room, such as: •Sewing machine •Sewing table •Fabric •Cutting board •Patterns •Threads •Mirror •Notions: thimbles, threaders, rulers, tracing tools, needles, pins, cushions, bobbins, elastic, seam rippers, pins, ribbon, dyes, fabric care, etc. •Iron and ironing board •Garment steamer •Dressforms •Other

Next, designate areas within your sewing room. I have simplified the process for you by dividing your room into five separate areas below.

5 Easy Ways for Organizing a Sewing Room:

1.Create a Sewing Table Area – This should include the sewing table or desk, sewing machine, and a small basket or organizer for your daily sewing needs. This should also include enough open space for you to keep the material and supplies of your current project within easy reach.

Your sewing table is best placed by a window to maximize natural lighting. If that is not possible, use halogen bulbs. There are a variety of desktop and floor lights available, some are even equipped with a magnifier.

For floor covering, the flatness of a tile or linoleum is usually preferred over soft carpet to keep the machine in balance.

2.Create a Fabric Storage Area – As a sewer, you probably have quite a vast collection of beautiful fabrics. Help these fabrics maintain their beauty and structure by storing them safely.

There are different ways to categorize your fabric:

•By Color: whites, blues, tans, reds, greens, etc. •By Style: plaid, stripe, toile, polka dots, floral, contemporary graphics, holiday, etc. •By Texture: cotton, rayon, denim, velvet, silk, canvas, leather, etc. •By Purpose: clothing, home furnishing, crafts, etc.

Safely store your fabrics by: •Folding neatly and place in plastic containers. Label the outside by cutting small swatches of each fabric. •Hanging fabric in a closet with a skirt or pant hanger. Multi-tiered hangers with clips can save space and help prevent wrinkles. •Placing smaller amounts of fabric in large Ziploc bags. However you decide to store the fabric, just make sure it is in a temperature-controlled environment to protect the fibers.

3.Create a Pattern Storage Area – Rather than keeping patterns scattered all over the place, keep them neat and tidy in a designated area. Lining up your patterns in drawers work especially well, either dresser drawers or durable cardboard or plastic drawers. You could also keep your patterns tucked inside a sturdy photo box, plastic container, pretty rectangular baskets, etc. Label the drawers or boxes based on one of the categories below.

•Style: shirts, slacks, skirts, dresses, etc. •Size: infant, children's, teens, adults •Gender: male, female •Brand: Butterick, McCall's, Vogue, etc.

Pick one system and stick with it.

4.Create a Sewing Supplies Area – Are your sewing supplies scattered all over the place? The exercise of organizing a sewing room would be incomplete without finding a home for all your little tools. Depending on what your current inventory is, you may find the following items useful:

•Sewing caddies – many of these include lots of dividers and pull out drawers as well as handles for easy transportation. •Thread boxes – these are convenient for seeing what colors you have available. •Drawer organizers – help you keep supplies separated and identifiable. •Household items – things you have around the house (for example, jars, plastic containers, etc.) can help you keep small items together.

These supplies don't need to be on or even next to your sewing table if you have open space for all of your daily sewing needs.

5.Create a Miscellaneous Area – This does not mean a "left over" area, rather this is for bigger items such as a full-length mirror, cutting board, iron and ironing board, garment steamer, and dressform. If you are tight on floor space, try hanging your mirror and ironing board on the wall. The cutting board can be tucked away in a closet or behind a desk or dresser. You may also want to find a spot to keep your gift wrapping supplies organized.

With these useful tips, organizing a sewing room can be time-saving event so you spend less time searching and more time sewing!

Copyright 2005 by Kathleen Elias - Editors are welcome to use this article for content as long as the article and author biography are reprinted in their entirety and an active weblink remains intact.

About the author: Kathleen Elias is the editor of www.Home-Organizing-Ideas.com, a website focused on organizing your home room by room. It offers original ideas, expert advice, and a monthly newsletter to help you reach your organizing goals. To contact the editor or find more information on organizing your home and life visit www.Home-Organizing-I deas.com.

Profitable Home Sewing Businesses

Author: Randy Wilson

If you're interested in home sewing businesses, you're onto a good thing. Home based sewing businesses have benefited from tremendous improvements in technology in the last few years.

The opportunities for home sewing businesses range from sewing specialty clothing to monogramming to commercial sewing. There are some absolutely fabulous machines and software out there that do everything from intricate embroidery to monogramming shirts, jackets, and caps for all sorts of businesses and sports teams.

So how do you go about starting a sewing business? First you have to decide on the type of home sewing business you want. As mentioned earlier, you can make specialty clothing such as wedding gowns and bridesmaids dresses on a machine you likely already own.

You may, however, want to break into the commercial area where you embroider on caps and such for local sports and Little League teams. Before you can have any home based sewing business, you have to know what exactly type of sewing service that business is going to provide.

The next thing you want to do when looking into sewing businesses is to look at the costs involved if you are going to be purchasing equipment. There's a wide range for you to choose from, and you can likely find exactly what you need at exactly the right price for your budget. Just make sure you deal with reputable companies. This is especially important if you're going to purchase used equipment for your home sewing business. Now develop a business plan for your sewing business. It should include a budget and how you'll use profits to grow your business in the future. You need to consider who the target market is for your home sewing business, and develop a plan for how you're going to reach it. Also, you'll want to look at accounting needs, tax requirements, and liability insurance.

You also want to decide whether you want to have a partner or not. Often, it's a good idea to have a partner, but make sure that person shares your vision of what you're doing. Also where you want to take your sewing business over time.

Once you have a business plan, follow it. It takes effort and determination to establish and sustain all businesses, whether they're home sewing businesses or Fortune 500 corporations. There will be bumps in the road, but your business plan will help you manage them when they pop up. Be vigilant, and you can be the owner of a successful home sewing business.

And, please, don't forget to consider your family when considering home sewing businesses. Talk about how having a home based sewing business will affect them. Make sure everyone understands what it will mean to them. You'll be home, but you'll be working.

This can make it hard for family members to know when you can stop and chat or go out for a bite to eat. Having everything out in the open will be a big help in the future when you're going crazy to meet a deadline and your family wants to go out for ice cream.

Once you've considered these aspects of home sewing businesses and have taken the plunge to actually start a home based sewing business, you want to get the word out. How much advertising you do depends on your budget, and you may not be able to do the type and amount you'd like when your first start your home sewing business.

Some simple, inexpensive advertising and marketing materials you should consider are flyers and business cards. You should also look into placing small ads in your local newspaper.

Websites are something else you should look into for advertising and marketing your home sewing business. They aren't nearly as expensive as you might think—and are well worth the investment for the amount of business one can bring your way.

© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

About the author: Randy is has dozens of home based business articles such as

Soy Candle Business Opportunity and

Spy Products .

Get Your Sewing Organized.

Author: Cyd Klein

Raise you hand if you have a 'Sewing Room' all to yourself.

Wait a minute, hold on here, and let me count them-1-2-3-4. Well you get the picture; people with a dedicated sewing room are in the lucky minority. Most people have to borrow a corner of the Dining room table for their portable machine. Some use the floor as a cutout surface. What are you going to do?

You're going to get organized; because our Motto is: An organized Sewer is a happy sewer. See if you can use any of these ideas in your home.

Most pre-1960 sewing machine cabinets were built to hold a sewing machine and a few notions. Very few. Pull out the machine and stick the cabinet on the porch with a pot of marigolds.

Now that your machine is portable, place it on an old lowboy style dresser instead. There's lots of drawers for notions and fabric, and if your lucky enough to have a longer style you could gain some cutting space. You trade off the legroom, but hey you should be getting up and stretching your legs anyway.

If you have a corner, find an old Armoire at the thrift store. Doesn't have to be pretty, just big. Put a shelf in to hold your machine and drill a hole in the back for a cord. Add a shelf on top for fabric, and some racks for notions on the sides of the leg area, and you have your own sewing room. Hang a sign on it that says keep out (to keep your husband away from your scissors).

Don't have a sewing cabinet, can't get an Armoire on top of your Volkswagen? Not to worry. Get a free standing shelf from the Home Depot, one of those metal ones that bolt together and Voila' you have a sewing room (better hide your scissors though).

Ok, Ok, you live in an efficiency apartment and have no extra wall space. Umm, guess you will have to use the kitchen or dining room table after all. But that doesn't give you permission to be disorganized. So, find ways to keep all your sewing stuff in one place. Trudge back to that thrift store and look for an old picnic basket, you know the ones with the extra compartments. Your notions will be in one place and portable. Check around for one of those nifty plastic thingies that rolls under the bed. You could fit a lot of fabric and notions in there. " Who are you kidding; I know you've been hoarding fabric sister. "

As a last resort, store your clothes with your husbands in his closet. Make room by giving some of his stuff to the Thrift store. (they will appreciate that, even if he won't). Now that you have an empty closet put up some closet shelves, drill some holes, stack the fabric and .....hide the scissors. Copyright Reserved by Cyd Klein Enterprises

About the author: Cyd Klein has 21 years experience sewing for others. Her vocation is designing and manufacturing Costumes which are then marketed locally and on-line at http://www.nbr-1-costumes.com. Ms Klein also maintains a sewing help site at http://www.sew-help-me.com

The Emergence of Sewing Machines

Author: Alison Cole

Sewing machines are one of the great inventions credited with transforming the economies of global societies. In 1851 that Isaac Merritt Singer, after studying a poorly working example, spent $40 and 11 days to develop a practical sewing machine that used an up and down mechanism. The first Singer sewing machine was introduced for sale across the United States that same year and the company became the primary manufacturer and seller of sewing machines within two years.

Initially, sewing machines were manufactured for garment factory production lines. The industrial sewing machines are generally designed to perform a specific sewing function such as embroidery or sewing straight stitches. Machines with different functions are used to complete clothing items in a production line.

Marketing sewing machines to individuals didn't begin until 1889, allowing for women to have the means to create clothing for their family without the labor-intensive hand stitching. The domestic sewing machine used in the home is manufactured to perform many tasks from sewing straight or zigzag stitches and the creation of buttonholes, as well as stitching buttons on to the piece of clothing.

Sewing machines have been mass produced worldwide for more than two-hundred years. As a result, the wide variety of styles and manufacturers make antique sewing machines a favorite collectible. Some of the most favorite antique machines include working miniatures that were salesmen's samples that doubled as child's sewing machines specifically for use by young girls, since they were expected to learn how to sew.

All modern sewing machines run on electricity, while their predecessors were powered by a hand crank or a foot pedal operation known as a treadle. All sewing machines feature mechanical parts, however today a sewing machine that is not computerized, is referred to as a mechanical sewing machine. Electronic sewing machines sew faster and smoother while giving a better stitch. Computerized sewing machines are able to perform many standard functions for the home seamstress more efficiently and make embroidering a simple task. The price for basic, mechanical sewing machines for the home starts at $70; added features push prices up to $1,200. Computerized sewing machine pricing can start around $400 for the home machines, with top of the line models running as high as $5,000.

Most sewing machines are well built and will last for many years with only a few parts needing replacement. A great number of antique sewing machines are still in operation, but parts can be hard to find if the company is no longer in business. Typically, the manufacturer is the best location for sewing machine parts, but there are also many companies specializing in sewing machine part replacements.

For more than two centuries, innovators have been sewing themselves into the fabric of our world's economy by answering the creativity needs of the home seamstress and major designers. The human need for textiles and continued economic gain ensures that the sewing machine will continue to evolve.

About the author: Sewing Machines Info provides detailed information about industrial, embroidery, antique sewing machines, and sewing machines parts, as well as reviews of best sewing machine manufacturers. Sewing Machines Info is the sister site of Vending Machines Web .