Sewing Information

Some pattern companies keep discontinued patterns for up to a year. Other, older, patterns may be found over the internet.

Alencon Lace Trims
Sewing with the Elegant Import Alencon lace, made in France, has separate woven floral pattern motifs on a net ground. Alencon lace gives wedding dresses an unmistakable touch of elegance.

Applying Sewing Trims to All-Over Lace
All-over lace often has an edge that can be cut off to use as a lace trim. The color and texture then matches perfectly. Bridal gowns sometimes feature contrasting lace trims applied to all-over laces.

Applying Lace Appliques
Lace appliques represent an easy way to add interest to wedding dresses. Cut around motifs, then trim to within a few threads of the cord.

Sewing Elastic Buttonloops to Wedding Dresses
A line of buttons on the back of wedding dresses adds elegance and can be done without undoing the seamstress - if elastic button looping is used.

Sewing Bead Fringes and Drops Beads
Like lace trims and appliques, thses are a common embellishment for bridal gowns.

Embellishing Lace with Beads, Pearls & Sequins
Laces embellished with beads, pearls and sequins produce wedding dresses with elegance, charm and sophistication.

Sewing Fabric Roses
Fabric roses can be made from very tiny to quite large. The fabric choice and grain line affects the look of the roses.

Sewing Horsehair Braid Hems
Horsehair braid is loosely woven from transparent strands of nylon thread. Sewn into the hemlines of dressy garments, such as bridal gowns, the braid slightly stiffens the lower edge, softly maintaining the shape of the garment.

Estimated Fabric Yardage Requirements
Not every project starts with sewing patterns. When the right fabric comes along, you know that you have to buy that fabric even though you have only a vague idea of what you might do with it.

Fabric Yardage Conversion Information
Converting from one fabric width to another is tricky.

A Guide to Needle Selection
Selection of the correct needle to suit the thread and fabric being sewn results in more satisfactory stitching.

Fibers, Fabric Descriptions and Fabric Care
Learn more about fabric, fabric fiber content and fabric care instructions.

Washing Information for Quilters
Detailed instructions for washing quilts, washing quilt fabric, and testing for color fastness.

Shortening Dress Zippers At the Bottom
It’s easy, economical & it works!

Home Sewing Association Sewing Guidelines

Using Dressforms

Sewing with Knits

Selecting Machine Needles

Snap Fasteners