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Posts Tagged ‘Machine Applique’

Ideas on how to transfer images onto fabric for an eco friendly project?

November 23rd, 2012 1 comment

As part of eco-schools we need to transfer images onto white cotton. I was just wondering if anyone had any new ideas. Eco-friendly ideas would also be excellent. The images might end up being images the kids have drawn, photos and also the fairtrade logo will be on it. These are the ideas I have come up with so far. The pupils are from 11-16.
Embroidery machine,
Applique,
Use image maker,
Fabric Paints
Printing (lino/ stencil etc..)
Batik

Any other ideas???

hand embroidery
free motion embroidery
beading
rust transfer "dyeing"
mudcloth designs
flower or leaf pounding
direct dye methods on pre-mordanted fabrics
altered fabric, e.g., cutwork

remember that the "greenest" methods are usually the most human energy intensive. The less "stuff" needed to accomplish the goal, the less environmental impact. Also remember that white cotton is not exactly environmentally friendly in its own right.

What is the best sewing machine to do quilting applique?

November 19th, 2012 4 comments

I am looking for a simple sewing machine that has an applique and embroidery feature. Nothing too fancy. thanks

I have a Brother 8500 and I love it!! It does a great job at doing machine applique and it’s great for embroidery too! And these days, that machine runs a fraction of the cost that it did when I bought mine back in 1999! You can usually pick up a used one for around $1,000. I know that sounds high, but originally it cost $4400! And most of the newer machines that do both sewing and embroidery will run between $4,000 and $6,000! The fact that I have been able to get FREE embroidery designs for it online for all these years helps a lot!
Now if this is way too high for your pockets, you may consider getting a Elna I think it’s called, or maybe it’s Quilters Dream? Look in a quilt magazine and see what machine it is that Ellenor Burns is pictured with. Hers is for doing applique and all great quilting stitches. And then you could consider buying separately a Brother 150? I think that’s the number, but it’s a BASIC embroidery ONLY machine and it runs around $200. I don’t know what the Ellenor Burns machine costs, probably close to $500 or more since she’s endorsing it. Hope that helps!