bearisgray

I had a quilt hanging over the edge of the ironing board. One of the cats tried climbing up on it. That did not work out well. Although my darning was very good - but along with the darning, there was some ----ing, too.

Doggramma

Make a test block before cutting out all the pieces.

Jcarpentier

My biggest tip is if you make mistakes (which you probably will) learn from them.

bearisgray

Most people will not notice most mistakes.

However - if MY mistake is bothering me - and it's a relatively easy "fix" - I may as well do it, because the bothering usually does not go away for me.

crafty pat

I do agree that making a test block is a must. Also washing and starching fabric first. I learned to clean my machine getting lent out of the bobbin holder and start each new project with a new needle. I try to get everything I am going to need to be using close around me so I don't nave to stop and try to find what I need when I need it. Don't be afraid to try new ways of doing things you may learn some new and better way of doing things.

ILoveToQuilt

Here are my two suggestions:

1) Change your sewing machine needle at the start of each new project.
2) Change your rotary cutter blades often. (When you find you are "pushing" on your cutter - change the blade).

mojo11

Clean bobbin area often.

bearisgray

Keep pins and needles away from areas DH frequents - such as the couch, living room floor, bed - etc.

Also, if your cat(s) like thread - be careful with it. It can get around their toes and injure them.
It is not beneficial for them to swallow thread, either.

gmcsewer

The one thing I remember I do not have a drink anyhere close to any of my work. I spilled a glass of ice tea one time over satin dress I was making for a customer. Thankfully the liquid was on top of the tissue and I was able to brush it off to the edge of the table.

daisydawg

I change my rotary cutter blades often, but not my sewing machine needle. What happens if I don't change my sewing machine needle after each project?