Tuesday, April 12, 2011

My new favorite tool

I just got this binding tool, and it's wonderful.  It solves that problem of the last stage of the binding when you're estimating how long to make the tails so that they fit snugly around the edges.  I have to guestimate and baste several times to get it right, but this tool makes it work the first time perfectly.
The company says:  The Binding Tool
When you finish the last seam of the binding only an angle seam will work to reduce the bulk of this last step. The Binding Tool makes a perfect ending every time. Two measurements and two cuts and you’re on your way to a great finish.

Company web site: http://quiltersmerc.com/simpl-ez-rulers.aspx
Demonstration:  on YouTube:  www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAGrGz6ukn0  

Baby on a quilt

Here's the baby on the quilt.  Photo courtesy of my daughter-in-law, Barb.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Wonder Tape--my favorite tool

I've checked online and about a dozen companies sell quilting-sewing products called "Wonder Tape."  They all seem to have the same characteristics:  double-sided sticky tape 1/4" wide, washes away with first washing.  I'm interested in trying a few different brands to see if one is easier to peel off the top paper.  I love this stuff, but getting the top paper off is challenging, even with sharp fingernails.  It's worth it, though.  I don't know what brand I have since I've lost the package and there are no markings inside the roll.  Even though though getting a grip on the top paper is challenging, it's worth it to keep a long seam straight. Here are some web sites with different brands.
http://www.createforless.com/Collins+Tape+Collins+Wash-Away+Wonder+Tape+1/4x10yd/pid7520.aspx
http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog/productdetail.jsp?CATID=cat3456&PRODID=xprd315941
http://www.amazon.com/Collins-Wonder-Tape-1-4X10-Yards/dp/B001IKEOE4
http://www.nancysnotions.com/product/supplies/tapes+%26+adhesives/wash+a+way+wonder+tape+quarter+x+10+yd.do