Do you love the look of stitching on paper, but are nervous to give it a try? Well, check out my video tutorial and written tips below. I cover it all..... especially the things that can go wrong, because everything did while we were filming!
If you'd rather just read about it, here are my best tips!
1. Since paper will dull your needles, keep the ones for fabric sharp by using the same needle whenever you're sewing on paper.
2. It may seem obvious, but always keep your paper right side up. Don't be tempted to flip it over because it fits easier or something. The holes don't look good when poked through from the wrong side.
3. To lock your stitches, pull the threads to the backside and tape them down. Don't use a lock stitch, your paper will tear and it looks yucky.
4. Use adhesives where you WON'T be sewing. Stitching through tapes and glues can gum up your machine.
5. Use a longer stitch lenght. If the stitches get too close together, the paper will tear (think perforated edge).
6. To turn corners, stop the machine at the corner with the needle down in the paper. Lift the presser foot, turn the paper, lower the foot and continue on.
7. For fun, try threading two types of thread through your needle.
8. Decorative stitches can be darling! Don't be afraid to try them. Just be careful not to get the stitching too close together or the paper will tear.
9. Sewing is an especially great way to adhere things that don't like to stay stuck. For example, velvet and crochet trims, heavy ribbons and ruffled anything (paper or fabric).
10. If you're daring, try freehand stitching by using a darning foot and lowering your feeddogs.
11. Paper leaves behind more dust than fabric. If you sew on paper a lot, clean your machine a bit more often.
