Sewing is a craft that has served me well over the years, mostly as a source of income from sewing custom slipcovers. While that is the bulk of what I sew, I also enjoy sewing other home decor items and garments for myself and family. I opened this chanel to share some of my experiences and to connect with other sewing enthusiasts. In the process I've met many talented people and have learned quite a bit myself.
I hope these tutorials will help and inspire you in your sewing endeavors. I welcome your comments and suggestions as well as your subscriptions. Please visit my website to learn about my slipcover business and my thoughts on this wonderful craft.
It's been so long since I made this video, I had to rewatch this section mentioned in your comment. After reinforcing the end stitch you can certain clip the excess thread. Sorry for the confusion. Peg
Hi, Dorothy, yes, that lining was quite thick. I wanted to test that brand and weight of interfacing so I made these placemats for my mother (instead of a client). Actually, they've held up nicely over the years by hand-washing. Not recommended for everyday use where machine washing is preferable. Thanks so much for writing. Peg
Hi, Allenbeck. Thanks for writing. I didn't "totally" skip the sewing of the piping. At minute marker 2:05 I said I would apply the piping just like I did in the One-Step Piping tutorial. Please let me know if you have any other questions: I'm here for you! Peg
This video is just perfect. I am so grateful for your detailed explanations and closeups. Thank you so much! I now have the confidence to try making a pillow cover with piping and a zipper.
Hello, Susan, thanks so much for your kind comment. I'm so glad that my little tutorial has inspired you to try a pillow project. Please let me know if you have any questions along the way. I'm here for you! Peg
two people in the present day of 2024 if you're weird like me and bought one of these this long after they were invented, The issue that I think a lot of commenters are having with it not stitching is that you need to make the tension like as high as it can possibly go. The peg thing that the thread is on is not stable or secure at all It provides absolutely zero tension and it needs to have tension so that it can thread properly once it goes through the material. there's only one side to this stitch, there's no like bobbin under the needle that then threads from the bottom as well. so all the tensions coming from one side. and further because it's just a stitch from one side basically, It will come unraveled super easily like if you get to the end and you don't so past the end to the point where it's looping the thread on itself It will come out if you just pull it and any thread at the end the entire thing will instantly just unravel. so the way to really fix it is you have to go to the end the last loop that's on the fabric itself and you have to find the little tie off piece of thread you need to push it back through to the other side and you have to tie it yourself. or if you're smart and you're only using this for like curtains and stuff then you can just super glue it
Thanks for your thoughtful comment. I originally made that series for my sister who bought two HS's from a TV info-mercial. However, the instructions were too complicated. I never considered the "Handy Stitch" to be a legitimate tool for sewing. It is handy only in regards to its compact size and battery power. It's very limited in what it can do and how well it can perform. Your comment is very helpful and reasonable. Thanks again, Peg
This is a fantastic video and perfect speed for me! Can you tell me what size of zipper you used? Is that a continuous coil? (not Invisible )? #5? Also could I use this video for Sunbrella Upholstery indoor/ outdoor fabric that is just a little bit thicker but still very pliable (canvas black is the name). Thank you!
Hello, Earthdweller! Thank you for your kind comment. That zipper is not "invisible". I purchased bulk rolls from Rowley Company (upholster supplies) but you can purchase something very similar from Sailrite. The link is below. Be sure to purchase the "pulls" as well. A close facsimile can be purchased in smaller quantities from JoAnn Fabrics. Here's the Sailrite link: www.sailrite.com/Lenzip-5-Natural-Continuous-Coil-Zipper-Chain?attribute__3193=10716&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD_hrqc3spDSHcjPUYB1XUetBICxJ&gclid=CjwKCAjwqre1BhAqEiwA7g9QhuAwYrTfT3-r-9GpIoDaA7wd-apd0a_Ev2Ktjr-tbqeG71BTJKINYRoCqj0QAvD_BwE
@@PegBakerSlipcovers Thank you kindly Peg! That is exactly what I purchased except it was a zipper company called YKK at JTS Outdoor Fabrics in Ontario Canada. Have you ever made a pillow with Sunbrella fabric or similar like an outdoor fabric with both zipper and piping as in your video? I should be getting my fabric next week and I plan to use your video for instructions 😊
@@earthdweller222 Yes, I often used Sunbrella fabric. These zippers seem to be durable enough for outdoor use. However, because of water-resistant finishes on outdoor fabrics, you might find the fabric a bit tricky to sew. If you have any questions about this, please write to me again at my YT email address: littlebug903@yahoo.com. I'm here for you! Peg
Thank you so much for the most descriptive and detailed tutorial for making a pillow with piping and inserting a zip. Your instructions are very clear and easy to understand and I am looking forward to making my next pillow. Have subscribed to your channel and look forward to more of your informative tutorials.
Hi, David. Thanks so much for your kind comment! Did you notice that this video is already 10 years old? Yep, that's right - I'm a lot older now. I've been retired for almost six years so I haven't been uploading. But I'm always here to answer questions and congratulate successes. Feel free to stay in touch. Sincerely, Peg
Hello Maureen, Thank you for your kind words! It makes me happy to know that I played a small role in your success. I've been retired for quite a while now, but I still love the craft. If you have any questions, or would like to share details and photos of your project, please write to me at littlebug903@yahoo.com. I'd love to hear from you again. Best wishes, Peg
Great video and so well explained. I made 3 large boxed cushions with piping for the first time, and they look great. Thank you so much, never too old to learn new things. Best video on RU-vid 😊
Hi, Lina, Thanks so much for writing. Congratulations on your box cushion success! These accomplishments are very gratifying. I agree: one is never too old to learn new things. I'm in my late 70's now and am still discovering new fabrication technics. I wish you continued success and enjoyment in all your life projects! Peg
@@teresapadrutt9321 Thanks so much, Teresa! There’s so many ways of doing something; this is just my take on it. Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. Happy sewing, Peg. PS: My husband gave me that ring for my 60th Birthday when we were in Singapore. I love it, too.
Hi, Paula. Thanks so much for writing! I can see how this might be confusing. This one only illustrated how piping can be applied without pre-sewing the bias tape over the cord. Whether the bias tape is pre-sewed or not, it is applied to one side of the pillow cover, then the two sides are joined. Please see sewing a pillow cover with piping: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-cGklGFIhKQI.htmlsi=suY-HikLc5z2dtcB. Wow, it's hard to believe it's been almost 10 years since I made these videos. They are clearly "old-school", but I still think these methods are useful for constructing well-made projects. If you have any other questions, please let me know; I'm here for you. Best wishes, Peg
Thank you for making this video! Even if I am late to the game lol I just got one and the instructions are too tiny to see the pictures. Video helped completely.
Hello, Karen, Thanks so much for your comment. I've been retired for several years, but I still love the craft and the incredible community of sewists everywhere. I admire the creativity and determination of our younger generations of fabricators, finding better solutions for all kinds of sewing dilemmas! It's nice to stay connected. I wish you the best! Peg
Hi, Penny, Thank you! Let me know how this method works for you. If you have any questions, please write to me here or at littlebug903@yahoo.com. Best of luck! Peg
Thank you for your kind comment! I hope my little tutorial plays a role in your sewing success. If you have any questions please let me know: I'm here for you! Sincerely, Peg
Hi, Suzanne, I loved that foot! It's unique to the Juki industrial that I owned at the time. I rarely switched it out for other feet. I sold that machine five years ago when I retired and moved to the east coast. I really miss it! I wish you success in all your sewing endeavors! Peg
I used to make piped cushions with Velcro fastenings ,but as I haven’t made any for a long time decided to use a zip fastener and it took me ages to change a habit of a lifetime.i have watched your video over and over again so am ready to start again with a zip thanks to you .
Hi, Lilac2haze, thanks so much for writing. I'm so happy to hear you are inspired to try something different. I think you'll discover it's simpler (maybe not easier) than you thought. Practicing on scraps will help you see the process a little faster. Also, if you run into roadblocks, please write to me; I'm here for you. Sincerely, Peg
Hi, rbscott, Thanks so much for writing. That Juki model is DDL-8700. My specialty was custom slipcovers so that Juki was handling upholstery weight fabrics. It was a fast, powerful machine, perfect for my work. However, it did not have a compound walking foot which is recommended for upholstery fabrication. Several years ago, I used a Consew compound walking foot machine. You might do some research on this, but I believe that was the go-to machine for upholsters back in the day. I wish you great success in your endeavors. Sincerely, Peg
Hello, Marlon, Thank you for writing. I retired six years ago, but I still thoroughly enjoy the craft. Hearing from folks like you really makes my day. I'd love to see some of your successes: if you'd like to share photos and/or construction details, please write to me at littlebug903@yahoo.com. I'd love to hear from you again. Sincerely, Peg
I can relate; I'll be 76 in April. I think I'll be sewing until I'm 100, if I'm blessed with the extra years. What are you working on these days? I'd love to hear more. Peg
Hi Peg I have only just seen your video Feb 2024. It is a lightbulb moment for inserting cushion zips for me. I have always been taught to do the piped side first......really difficult. Doing it your way is so much easier. Shame is taken so long for me to find your tutorial. Many thanks Ann Stuart, Coventry UK
Hi, Ann, How sweet of you to write! I'm so glad to hear that my little tutorial was helpful. Since that video, I tweaked the process a little more but I never got around to recording it. Perhaps that is in my future! Please stay in touch. I'd love to hear more about your sewing adventures! Sincerely, Peg
I saw a cushion I made around 2015 and thought, how did I manage to make that??? Then it was brought to memory that this was the exact video I watched!!! And years later here I am again! Thank you, Miss. Peg!!!! Fantastic tutorial!
Your sweet comment warmed my heart! Thank you for sharing your memory with me. I retired almost 6 years ago on my 70th birthday. Now, I'm enjoying simple sewing pleasures. However, I'm always here for my followers to answer questions and provide support. Thanks again, Peg
I always watch your tutorials - they are clear , good solid technique , and no drama - keeps me calm and reassured . Me and my sewing machine sometimes have a stand-off in attitude! the sewing machine usually wins , but your tutorials give me hope. Thankyou.
Thank you for your kind compliments! I can relate to the love/hate relationship with our sewing machines, but I think we can admit there's more love than not. I haven't uploaded tutorials for quite a few years. I retired almost six years ago at age 70 and am enjoying simple sewing pleasures. However, please let me know if you ever have any questions; I'm here for you. Peg
Hi, Holly. Thanks so much for writing. Perhaps this video will help. Let me know your results. Best wishes, Peg ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-hEPHgk1CxAs.htmlsi=V7h6O0sC2LeLVGdi
Thank you so much for these user-friendly instructions and I appreciate your easygoing energy and calming voice; it makes me not feel as bad if I make an accident or take a little longer with getting the hang of these new maneuvers! I have a lot more confidence that I can turn this interest into an actual hobby now too! Thank you again!
Thank you for writing. I hope you find joy in this wonderful craft. Accidents and mistakes will always happen: it's part of the creative process. So don't get discouraged. When you are able to get a traditional sewing machine, you'll find your skills will really take off. If you have any questions, please write to me; I'm here for you. Happy New Year, Peg
I am hoping that could recommend a good iron for me. Yous has the full soleplate in stainless. lots of steam holes and a powerful blast of steam. good cord director too. I have been through so many irons, gravitys, rowentas, cheapies now. I. dislike the auto off every 3 minutes too. thank you Peg.
Thank you for writing. I've had many irons over the years. I believe the one in the video is a Rowenta tank model. When an iron is on for long periods of time (2 or more hours) its lifespan will definitely be affected. During my professional career I found I was replacing my iron every two to three years. Now, I'm retired and am enjoying quilting and other textile crafts. I'm using an iron by Panasonic. "Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless, Portable 1500W Contoured Multi-Directional Steam/Dry Iron". I don't think it would hold up to professional work, but I really love it for the sewing I do now. It does have auto off but it heats back up very quickly. Best of luck in your decision. I'd love to hear when you decide. Please stay in touch. Happy New Year, Peg
taking the time to fix the corners! super. I stitch in the piping first row aprox 1/2” out from piping. when I sew front and back, I can really tuck my second line right close to the piping. thank you
Thanks so much for getting in touch! Please keep me posted on your progress. If you have any questions along the way, let me know: I'm here for you. Happy Holidays, Peg
Thank you Peg for the great tutorial. I just finished four 24” x 24” pillows. I could not have done them without your wonderful, clear and consistent intuitions in these videos. Great tips, too. THANK YOU!!!
Hello, Sue. Thanks for your kind comment! I'm always happy to hear that my little tutorials have helped someone be successful. I've been retired for five years and I'm not active on my channel any more, but I'm still sewing and enjoying the craft as much as ever. I wish you the best in your sewing adventures. Happy Holidays! Peg
I plan to make one in a 12x20 lumbar size for my son’s nursery! So I just cut the fabric at 12x20? I’ll have to look at your comments for the other size pieces of fabric.
Hi, Jill, if 12x20 is the finished dimensions, you’ll need to add 1/2” to each of the four sides for seam allowances. The cut dimensions will then be 13x21. If you have more questions please write to me at littlebug903@yahoo.com. I’m here for you! Peg
Thank you, Janice, for your kind comment. I've been retired for a long time and I still enjoy hearing from sister-sewists out there. I wish you the most success in your creative journey. Peg
Hi Peg. I watched your video on RU-vid about making Bias Strips for Cording on a pillow/cushion. Do you have any written instructions for making this? Do you have any books on this subject of making chair cushions? I would love to buy it. Thank you!
Hello, Sandra, Thanks so much for writing. Your thoughtful comment is deeply appreciated! That tutorial series was made at least 12 years ago, and since then, there have been many content creators who have added their process to the mix. To answer your question, no; I have never made written instructions on box cushion fabrication. I am, however, always available to answer your questions. If you have a project in mind, please write with details to my email address: littlebug903@yahoo.com. I will respond right away. Sincerely, Peg
Peg this is terrific! Question on the dimensions of the zipper plaque- adding the extra 4 " to each side- what if i only want the zipper to be in the back of the cushion- not have it come around 4's extra on each side- what do I do for the plaque dimensions-?
Hi, Kelley. Thank you so much for writing! It is definitely OK to omit the "wrap-around" on the sides. I had the extra length on the zipper to allow for easier insertion and removal of the cushion insert. The zipper, however, should at least run the length of the boxing back. For instance, if your cushion dimensions are 30" front and back, the sides are 24", and the depth is 4". Cut the boxing pieces for the front and sides, adding your desired seam allowance. Prepare the back, inserting the zipper as directed in the video. Let me know if this answers all your questions. You can write to me at littlebug903@yahoo.com with more details and/or photos. I'm here for you. Best wishes, Peg
Hello Barbara, Thanks so much for writing. I hope my little tips with increase your options for piping your sewing projects. If you have any other questions or want to share photos of your projects, please write to me at littlebug903@yahoo.com. I wish you the best in your sewing adventures! Peg
