Jan Patek- Miami Valley Album Quilt- Dog Block

Dog Block!

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Below is a photo of my open toe applique foot on my Bernina,

in the process of machine appliqueing the dog to the background

fabric. I found the perfect stitch to use is the #3 stitch on my Bernina 180, which they call a "Varilock Stitch". I select this stitch on the machine, and reverse it, so that the "V" swings to the left as it sews. The Varilock stitch swings over to the left to catch the applique, then it swings back to the edge of the applique shape, sews two straight stitches, then swings back to the left for the next "V". If you don't have a stitch like this on your machine, you can also use a plain 'ol zig-zag stitch. Make it narrow and a little long, so that you're not doing a regular heavy line of applique, unless you want that effect.

 

Vintage 1948 Singer Sewing Machine

Vintage 1948 Singer

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I have been collecting sewing machines for several years now. My favorites are the vintage Singers. I love sewing on these machines! It seems like no matter how old they are, as long as they're not rusted out, they sew beautifully!! When found, they usually need a little TLC-- cleaning and oiling, maybe a new belt. I "found" this one and it needed a new electric cord, so I had one put on. It also needed a new belt, and a little rubber ring on the "gizmo" that you wind the bobbins with.

I feel you just can't go wrong with these old machines.  This one came  with a straight stitch foot and a couple bobbins-  no manual, but you can still get parts for these-just do a search online.

The tension is great, it makes the best straight stitch you'll ever find. I love sewing on these old machines because I feel like I'm sewing on a piece of history, and feel connected to all the people who've used it before me.

Hannie Jo's Quilt

 This is a small picture of a quilt Hannie Jo made. She used to make quilts and dresses to wear. She can't see as well now to sew, but we love her so much! She made this one on a treadle sewing machine.