Sewing black on black
 

I am in process of making a Jacobs Ladder in reds & black. In joining the rows I cannot see whether they are lined up even or not! Any hints on this problem or is it just my old eyes & bad lighting? Thanks for any suggestions ladies!

I also have a problem with black fabrics. I have to have a LOT of light, so I take the OTT lamp out of my retreat kit for extra light. I have the worst time ripping black stitches out of black fabric.

I use a medium grey thread on top and black in the bobbin when sewing black fabric. I fine this quilt helpful.

Sometimes I also take my chalk marker & run it along places that I need to match up. Especially if I'm doing black on black machine appliqué. I'm not sure if that would help with your current problem or not.

I do this too. Probably doesn't help with the lining up of fabric, but sure helps with the seam ripping!

Dina

Glad to know i'm not the only one who struggles with black fabrics/quilts !! Although it would be nice if NONE of us had the problem!

i love this idea!

I heard that lighting is most of the issue, I have horrible lighting so you might try to get a better lamp or something that might help with lighting.

Like it! :thumbup:

Jan in VA

I have the same problem with black fabric. I only sew black on black during the day light with plenty of light also coming from Ott lights. I also use pounce chalk (used to mark stencils on quilts) and rub it on the edge of the bottom fabric before I pin.

This is what I was about to suggest. Even a regular chalk rolled along the piece on the under side.

Thank you for this thread.... I just finished a gift with black borders, binding and backing. I nearly went blind!! Luckily the porch was warm enough, and the sunlight was strong. Next time I'll try using a grey thread.

I, too, was going to suggest rubbing some chalk on the edges of your fabrics to help with lining up. I find halogen lights to be most helpful when working on difficult to see projects if that is an option for you.

I was just facing this problem yesterday. I love the pounce chalk idea. Thanks!
~ Cindy

Get a piece of washable chalk...something light. Rub it lightly across the area you are working in. I had the same problem when FMQ'ing black on black. It really helps. Chalk is a bit dusty but since I wash quilts before gifting, it's not a problem.

I just gave up, I DO NOT DO black! On anything!

Glad to hear I'm not alone. When I quilted a black and white quilt with black borders using black thread it was a nightmare! I, too, only sew on black during daylight hours with lots of natural and LED light.

LIGHT! LIGHT! LIGHT! As I age, I find I continue to need more and more....I like the idea of using the grey thread and also using the chalk liner. Still, I, too, don't sew on black at night........just can't see it very well.....

I added one of the bendable LED lights to my machine so I can direct the beam just where I need it. What a difference.

If necessary, move in front of a window for this one and work only on sunny days. Probably not what you wanted to hear.

I've just been through this with trying to match seams on black fabric It's maddening! I'm currently sewing on the Brother on the dining room table, and the overhead lighting--a hanging fixture-- is just not sufficient. The Brother light is very bright but the pool of light is just not large enough.

What I've learned from this is that it's just not workable and I have to figure out another place to set up and sew on the Brother. I also do need new glasses!

I also have trouble with black or real dark fabrics. I get out the magnifying glass & add more light. It is getting bad

I love black and white. have done 3 one black/white/coral one b/w/lime green and now b/w/gold
my next one will be b/w/teal. when I get them quilted I will try to post pictures of them.
thanks for all the great tips gals.

My kids were taught in 4H to use dark blue on black, black on navy. It's easier to rip out without being obviously different color.

I would get a cheapo goose neck light and take the shade off. You can also get daylight led bulbs and they are super bright. They have more of a white tone vs. a softer warm tone. The harsh white tone really helps with seeing seems on dark fabric.

When matching balck to black I use Wonder tape, it's 1/4" wide and sticky on both sides and washes away in water. I use it for matching seams on any color fabric. I keep rolls of it on hand. Usually I end up giving my roll to someone who has never used it and thinks it's a miracle. LOL