Notions Tips
Read these 4 Notions Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Sewing tips and hundreds of other topics.
Thread Color
When choosing the color of thread, the general rule is to choose one shade darker than your fabric, if you cannot get a perfect match. For top-stitching and decorative stitching, you can choose a matching or contrasting color.
Thread Weight
It is important to choose the proper thread for the type of fabric and type of project being done. All purpose thread serves most fabric weights. Denim would require a heavier weight thread and silks and finer fabrics require a lighter weight thread.
Preshrink Zipper
If your garment will be washed, preshrink the zipper to avoid puckering. Preshrink by soaking the zipper in water until the zipper tape is saturated, press it flat with an iron set on low heat and let it dry. Be careful not to use a hot iron or the zipper teeth may melt.
Shortening Zippers
Non-separating zippers can be shortened by sewing (by hand or machine) over the tape several times about an inch below the desire length. Cut off the excess zipper. Separating zippers must be shortened from the top. Hand sew a new stopper on each side before cutting off the excess zipper tape.
