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Are you scared of sewing with curves? Have no fear! Today I am sharing a few tips and tricks that have been helpful for me. Give this post a read and try out the Sunroom Quilt Pattern.
The quilt pattern above is The Natural Harmony Quilt Pattern
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1. Sew slow.
It's tempting to put the pedal to the metal when you're comfortable sewing, but with curves it's all about slow sewing. You want to take your time and ease that curve slowly through the machine.
2. Needle Down.
I set my machine in the needle down position when I sew. That means every time I lift my foot off the pedal the machine stops with the needle down. This helps to hold all the layers in place so that I can lift the presser foot and adjust around the curve. This will help you make that curve nice and smooth. Every few stitches, I raise the foot and turn the fabric slightly around the curve.
3. Pin, Pin, Pin!!
Don't be stingy with those pins. As you pin your curved pieces together make sure you pin all the way around that curve to the very end. I also find it most helpful to start in the middle, work my way to one end, back to the middle and to the other end.
4. Steam Iron.
I personally find that using steam is helpful. First of all it helps work out all those wrinkles from the pins so you can see if there are any puckers. Second, I think it helps ease out any accidental puckers if there are any. This is simply personal preference. I know there are mixed opinions on using a steam iron while quilting. I make sure not to pull or stretch the fabric too much since the steam will cause that to happen on it's own a little.
5. Tailor's Clapper!
Alright this might be a new tool you haven't heard of before. I use this handmade clapper from Lamb and Loom. It makes such a difference to me! When I'm ready to press I open the seam, press and then quickly place the clapper over the seam and let it sit while I move on to the next piece. Then I repeat that process. The clapper helps to hold the heat on the seam and really make it crisp! I'm hooked on my clapper.
The pattern above makes great practice - The Natural Harmony Quilt Pattern.
If you feel like you can conquer the curves try out the Sunroom Quilt Pattern. This pattern was my first attempt at sewing curves. You can do this! You have all the skills you need now.
Good luck!
Here are some additional blog posts you might enjoy:
Sewing with Triangles
Quilting Curves
Making Half-Square Triangles
The quilt pattern above is The Natural Harmony Quilt Pattern.
Hi when preparing fabric used for curves should I consider the direction of the weave?
Should it run across the width of the piece I am cutting out or should it have been cut on the bias?
Thank you for the tips! Great advice! I’m new to curves so any tips to make this less frightful and look perfect, I appreciate!
this is a fun pattern to practice curves. the directions are easy to follow and the step out pictures were helpful to keep me on track. pins, starch and steam.