Chapter 2 Prepping (Tools. Machines, Fabric)

Tools
Gertie lists the essential and extra tools for sewing.  This is really handy for those of us who are new to the world of sewing and want to buy everything in the fabric shop!  She lists the basics/extras you will need for:

1. measuring
2. pinning and cutting
3. marking and basting
4. sewing
5. pressing

Fabric
She explains how you should select fabric for your sewing project and recommends collecting fabric swatches to familiarize ourselves with different types of fabric. 

Dictionary of Garment Fabric (my favorite section of the chapter)
In this section she lists a description of different garment fabrics.  I'll probably copy these pages and take them with me when I go fabric shopping!
 
She describes these (and other) fabrics in detail...
Silk (chiffon, duchesse satin, faille...)
Wool (houndstooth, wool tweed...)
Cotton, Linen, Rayon (gingham, pique, cotton tweed...)
Specialty fabrics (chantilly lace, brocade, tulle...)
Utility fabrics (muslin, batiste, silk organza...)
Knits
Vintage Fabrics
Lining Fabric

The chapter ends with recommendations for washing and pretreating fabric.

Happy stitiching everyone!

I Just Got My Copy Of Gertie's New Book For Better Sewing!

"The man who does not read good books has no advantage over  the man who can't read them."            ~Mark Twain

I just got my copy of Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing and can't wait to try some of the projects in section 2! But, before I can get there, I need to practice (I mean learn!!!!)  the techniques that she discusses in section 1.   I've just read the intro and chapter 1 and already know that I will learn soooooo much from this book.   I will outline the key points that I learn form each chapter and encourage everyone to pick up a copy and take advantage of the tips Gertie's book offers!

Chapter 1: Sewing Retro 101
In this chapter, Gertie shows you how you can create a vintage wardrobe using contemporary  or  vintage patterns.  She lists the pros/cons for both of these.   Modern patterns are a cheaper choice and  you can find a larger size range.  Also, they have more detailed instructions if you chose a contemporary pattern.  If you are interested in the real deal and want to learn more about vintage patterns, you should check out www.vintagepatterns.wikia.com. She finishes the chapter by giving you detailed directions for sizing, tracing, and storing vintage patterns.