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Human: Any advice for writing a horror scene without jumpscares Hi. I'm writing a short film for a local film festival and I have chosen a mystery, thriller theme. I have a "monster" in the scene but is more like a folklore creature in my culture. I plan on showing just the silhouette or a shadow of it. Any advice on how I can make this scene more thrilling? Assistant: This might not be what you're looking for, but there's this thing that is (in my opinion) full on horror, without any scares, jump or otherwise. It's the game "What Remains of Edith Finch", and I don't think I've seen anything like that anywhere else, regardless of medium.	Human: Any advice for writing a horror scene without jumpscares Hi. I'm writing a short film for a local film festival and I have chosen a mystery, thriller theme. I have a "monster" in the scene but is more like a folklore creature in my culture. I plan on showing just the silhouette or a shadow of it. Any advice on how I can make this scene more thrilling? Assistant: You should listen to “on the page podcast” episode 740, “a sense of dread”. Neal Marshall Steven’s is the guest and talks about how to write frightening scenes without jump scares.
Human: Should I develop a pilot with a management company that doesn't seem to develop pilots? I'm looking for advice on whether I should trust a manager to help me develop and pitch my pilot when they don't seem to represent any clients or projects like mine. I have a relationship with a manager who I met through stand-up comedy, and I've known them for a couple of years. I'm not worried about the legit nature of their company, it's just their client list is full of actors, dancers and athletes. They haven't promised anything special, just that they might be able to help pitch my project to some of the places I'd like it to end up going. The closest thing they have is some reality tv show producer credits, and I don't want to doubt their ability if they are able to. I'm just nervous that for several years we've always been friendly, but I was never quite the right client to represent as a comedian, and now I have this pilot script, proof-of-concept, and stuff, and while they've continued the conversation about helping develop this show, there's really no talk about working "with me." Is this something I should be concerned about, and pursue other avenues, or is it possible this manager really does have at least enough to help me pitch my pilot so it's not being received "unsolicited"? It's a medieval sitcom, about stand-up comedy. Title: Jesters Logline: In a time of plague, war, and two drink minimums, three jesters are dying to get a laugh. I have a small teaser of my POC for reference. https://youtu.be/kvR4CJoecbs I just don't know if I should work with a company whose biggest client is a fisherman. But then again, I'm the new guy, and maybe I'm trying to beg and choose. Assistant: Perhaps you should just ask the manager what his experience is in scripted development? The majority of projects people work on will never make it to IMDb. There’s a chance he is a baby manager looking to get a scripted department off the ground just like you are a baby writer looking to get a show off the ground. Just ask. And if this is someone who truly has zero experience in scripted, ask what the plan/strategy would be for your project.	Human: Should I develop a pilot with a management company that doesn't seem to develop pilots? I'm looking for advice on whether I should trust a manager to help me develop and pitch my pilot when they don't seem to represent any clients or projects like mine. I have a relationship with a manager who I met through stand-up comedy, and I've known them for a couple of years. I'm not worried about the legit nature of their company, it's just their client list is full of actors, dancers and athletes. They haven't promised anything special, just that they might be able to help pitch my project to some of the places I'd like it to end up going. The closest thing they have is some reality tv show producer credits, and I don't want to doubt their ability if they are able to. I'm just nervous that for several years we've always been friendly, but I was never quite the right client to represent as a comedian, and now I have this pilot script, proof-of-concept, and stuff, and while they've continued the conversation about helping develop this show, there's really no talk about working "with me." Is this something I should be concerned about, and pursue other avenues, or is it possible this manager really does have at least enough to help me pitch my pilot so it's not being received "unsolicited"? It's a medieval sitcom, about stand-up comedy. Title: Jesters Logline: In a time of plague, war, and two drink minimums, three jesters are dying to get a laugh. I have a small teaser of my POC for reference. https://youtu.be/kvR4CJoecbs I just don't know if I should work with a company whose biggest client is a fisherman. But then again, I'm the new guy, and maybe I'm trying to beg and choose. Assistant: It sounds like they might a manager in a different industry. It's not impossible that they have connections, but maybe they'd be able to get you in front of a management agency specifically for screenwriters.
Human: I'm trying to write an 11 minute pilot... but unfortunately I"m close to the 11th page and I'm already within the first few minutes of the episode. What do I do? Assistant: The rule “one page = one minute of screen time” isn’t always the case. You see this happen a lot with animated movies and TV shows. Try and maybe play out what you have written in your head and time it. If it’s too long, maybe find something to cut or even rethink the 11 minute idea	Human: I'm trying to write an 11 minute pilot... but unfortunately I"m close to the 11th page and I'm already within the first few minutes of the episode. What do I do? Assistant: If it's a first draft, there's space to go back and minimize. Look at the scenes you have and decide where you may be overwriting or where you can minimize dialogue or action.
Human: I want to write animated scripts, but I'm a bad artist - advice? Background: I'm a rising college senior majoring in creative writing who recently (within the past year) decided I wanted to pursue screenwriting. I write scripts of all kinds, but I lean heavily towards children's movies and would ideally love to someday work on the story team for an animation studio! However, therein lies my problem: story development for animated films involves a LOT of storyboarding, and I'm not a great artist. I know you don't have to exactly be a pro artist to storyboard, but the fact remains that I'm a mediocre artist at best and lack the experience and skills that a lot of animation studios are looking for. Where do I start? Specific grad school programs? Drawing classes? Photoshop? Do I just give up and accept that I'll only ever write live-action films? Please help a girl out :) thanks! Assistant: In the same situation and I’ve found some super helpful info when it comes to this subject! First, here is a podcast with two writers from Cartoon Network who discuss exactly what you asked: https://youtu.be/kP8f9MH1gYk Second, here is an incredibly useful living document they mentioned in the podcast above! https://docs.google.com/document/u/0/d/1DV030qteYcYmOIhn-VlD_N98kXJmMnM3stPVGD9emFI/mobilebasic Best of luck on your journey.	Human: I want to write animated scripts, but I'm a bad artist - advice? Background: I'm a rising college senior majoring in creative writing who recently (within the past year) decided I wanted to pursue screenwriting. I write scripts of all kinds, but I lean heavily towards children's movies and would ideally love to someday work on the story team for an animation studio! However, therein lies my problem: story development for animated films involves a LOT of storyboarding, and I'm not a great artist. I know you don't have to exactly be a pro artist to storyboard, but the fact remains that I'm a mediocre artist at best and lack the experience and skills that a lot of animation studios are looking for. Where do I start? Specific grad school programs? Drawing classes? Photoshop? Do I just give up and accept that I'll only ever write live-action films? Please help a girl out :) thanks! Assistant: This is free Storyboarder software. You can make animatics. Just draw stick figures if you want. Or you can turn sketches into 3D and find different camera angles. Record your voice and add dialogue or temp music, etc. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://filmora.wondershare.com/video-editing-tips/filmmaking-software.html&ved=2ahUKEwig-4yTpdLvAhWWX80KHVnYB04QFjANegQIDRAC&usg=AOvVaw2p1wlUHCHWtPK6jRzmBAXD
Human: People who’ve been at this a while - how do you stay consistent and positive? I think I’ve got a pretty good workflow. I try to do 4 hours of writing a day or minimum of 10 pages. With rewrites it leads to 2 - 3 projects a year. I do have a job where I’m a writer as well. But I stay consistent for the most part. What trips me up is being impatient. Wanting things to move faster and get those little validation hits which I realize is so dumb and detrimental to the work. I’m getting better with rejection and am trusting in the process. I do get a little tripped up if I’m hit with a bunch of rejections in one week. So I start to question myself, question my work. I feel like it COULD be good, but it’s still not 100% there yet. Which leads me to question if I have the chops. And yeah, I would say writing has gotten harder because of this. Does anybody know how they take themselves out of funks like this? How do you trust yourself as a writer? How do you quantify growth? Assistant: 10 pages a day is pretty incredible. My goal is 3 pages/day, with 5 being an amazing day. In terms of optimism, I think it comes from being able to objectively analyze your works. If each script you write is showing progress and improvement then keep forging ahead. However, if your scripts are not improving then that is when some concern should take place. If this is the case, you need to assess which elements are holding you back then take steps to improve them.	Human: People who’ve been at this a while - how do you stay consistent and positive? I think I’ve got a pretty good workflow. I try to do 4 hours of writing a day or minimum of 10 pages. With rewrites it leads to 2 - 3 projects a year. I do have a job where I’m a writer as well. But I stay consistent for the most part. What trips me up is being impatient. Wanting things to move faster and get those little validation hits which I realize is so dumb and detrimental to the work. I’m getting better with rejection and am trusting in the process. I do get a little tripped up if I’m hit with a bunch of rejections in one week. So I start to question myself, question my work. I feel like it COULD be good, but it’s still not 100% there yet. Which leads me to question if I have the chops. And yeah, I would say writing has gotten harder because of this. Does anybody know how they take themselves out of funks like this? How do you trust yourself as a writer? How do you quantify growth? Assistant: Embrace it, comes and goes in waves, part of the life
Human: A story with only one character I've been entertaining the idea of writing a screenplay for a short film about a singular character, with no other people appearing in the film. Obviously it would probably be about some inner conflict the character has, I'm just not sure how I could turn that into a compelling plot for a film. Any general ideas for the way I could pull that off? Assistant: I’d check out Buried with Ryan Reynolds.	Human: A story with only one character I've been entertaining the idea of writing a screenplay for a short film about a singular character, with no other people appearing in the film. Obviously it would probably be about some inner conflict the character has, I'm just not sure how I could turn that into a compelling plot for a film. Any general ideas for the way I could pull that off? Assistant: I'd check out the original script for "Passengers". IMO the script is wayyy better than the movie, and while it does have multiple characters, a huge portion of the beginning follows just one and might give you inspiration.
Human: Accidentally Uploaded Very Poorly Formatted Script to the Blacklist So I accidentally uploaded the wrong script to the Blacklist -- long story short is I copy/pasted from the PDF version to Final Draft (too long to explain why), and assumed that would be fine/didn't proof read how that affected the formatting. I submitted that script and got two evaluations, both of which had HEAVY (understandably) issues with formatting. This surprised me at first, because I'd never gotten formatting issues as a note on this script before, until I looked at what they were reading and saw the stinking pile of garbage they had to read through. I've since uploaded the properly formatted script, and have two reviews left with the correct formatting, but how will having two low scores (almost entirely, per the notes, due to the formatting issues), affect my script overall? Assistant: Pro tip: Keep a dedicated separate folder for "Submission" copies of your scripts. This way you won't ever make the mistake of uploading/submitting the wrong copy because of brain reasons. Worst case would be you upload an old copy, but it should be publicly presentable at least.	Human: Accidentally Uploaded Very Poorly Formatted Script to the Blacklist So I accidentally uploaded the wrong script to the Blacklist -- long story short is I copy/pasted from the PDF version to Final Draft (too long to explain why), and assumed that would be fine/didn't proof read how that affected the formatting. I submitted that script and got two evaluations, both of which had HEAVY (understandably) issues with formatting. This surprised me at first, because I'd never gotten formatting issues as a note on this script before, until I looked at what they were reading and saw the stinking pile of garbage they had to read through. I've since uploaded the properly formatted script, and have two reviews left with the correct formatting, but how will having two low scores (almost entirely, per the notes, due to the formatting issues), affect my script overall? Assistant: There is a Start Fresh button that wipes all your evals but keeps your listing up.
Human: Production company dilemma I have 2 different offers to develop a comedy show, and need to make call. 1. Well-respected TV studio with a major comedy hit under their belt – BUT they want to change the idea significantly 2. Lesser-known studio, had several films acquired by streamers, no scripted TV track record - BUT really believe in the original idea I've had conversations with some other major players who love the original concept, but can't take it on right now for one reason or another. Would you take Option 1 as a 'safe bet' for potential long-term gain, or gamble on the strength of the original concept with Option 2? Assistant: Option 2 could easily turn into option 1. In that in order for them to set it up there will need to be significant changes. Go with 1.	Human: Production company dilemma I have 2 different offers to develop a comedy show, and need to make call. 1. Well-respected TV studio with a major comedy hit under their belt – BUT they want to change the idea significantly 2. Lesser-known studio, had several films acquired by streamers, no scripted TV track record - BUT really believe in the original idea I've had conversations with some other major players who love the original concept, but can't take it on right now for one reason or another. Would you take Option 1 as a 'safe bet' for potential long-term gain, or gamble on the strength of the original concept with Option 2? Assistant: I would go with option 1.
Human: writing a hangout movie? one of my favorite sub genres is the so-called “hangout movie”. Films like Shampoo, The Last Detail, Car Wash, Dazed And Confused, Before Sunrise. I have an idea for one but I’m having trouble finding what makes these films work. They’re very light on plot and tend to not have a discernible structure. any tips? Assistant: Read up on “A Hero’s Journey”	Human: writing a hangout movie? one of my favorite sub genres is the so-called “hangout movie”. Films like Shampoo, The Last Detail, Car Wash, Dazed And Confused, Before Sunrise. I have an idea for one but I’m having trouble finding what makes these films work. They’re very light on plot and tend to not have a discernible structure. any tips? Assistant: Emotion inducing dialogue.
Human: What rights does a producer have who was not contracted to a project he read and gave a few notes on? Long story short, a friend of mine is a screenwriter who has an episodic pitch that he’s hopefully making an option deal on with an established producer. However, he’s become concerned after having a conversation with a no-name manager/producer who read the project and gave a couple of notes. They have no agreement, not implied or written, just purely a couple of conversations, but the manager/producer more or less implied he would have to be involved and compensated on any option that he takes elsewhere on the project. Has anyone dealt with this before? I’m a producer of film and would ethically never do something like that but I frankly have no idea if his position is valid or not. Want to help advise my friend here so curious if anyone has ever had a situation like this arise. Assistant: They have absolutely zero rights in this. They were not creatively involved except in giving feedback. That is not enough to claim any share of ownership.	Human: What rights does a producer have who was not contracted to a project he read and gave a few notes on? Long story short, a friend of mine is a screenwriter who has an episodic pitch that he’s hopefully making an option deal on with an established producer. However, he’s become concerned after having a conversation with a no-name manager/producer who read the project and gave a couple of notes. They have no agreement, not implied or written, just purely a couple of conversations, but the manager/producer more or less implied he would have to be involved and compensated on any option that he takes elsewhere on the project. Has anyone dealt with this before? I’m a producer of film and would ethically never do something like that but I frankly have no idea if his position is valid or not. Want to help advise my friend here so curious if anyone has ever had a situation like this arise. Assistant: None.
Human: Working/Repped Writers of r/Screenwriting, what would you tell your hungry/out-of-work self relentlessly working to "break-in" a year before you actually did? Assuming you've read all of the books, wrote a couple features/pilots, didn't win the competitions, went to YouTube University, consistently read screenplays, and spend every night in front of a keyboard whacking away at the tear-soaked keyboard contemplating your place (if any) in this rollercoaster of an industry. In other words, "I had the passion, creativity, skills, and drive; I just wish that I \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_." Write on! Assistant: Stay hungry, stay humble, and get ready to break in another five times. Eventually, you’ll turn around and realize you’ve got a resume.	Human: Working/Repped Writers of r/Screenwriting, what would you tell your hungry/out-of-work self relentlessly working to "break-in" a year before you actually did? Assuming you've read all of the books, wrote a couple features/pilots, didn't win the competitions, went to YouTube University, consistently read screenplays, and spend every night in front of a keyboard whacking away at the tear-soaked keyboard contemplating your place (if any) in this rollercoaster of an industry. In other words, "I had the passion, creativity, skills, and drive; I just wish that I \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_." Write on! Assistant: I wish that I had listened to Episode 403 of Scriptnotes. It was like a gong went off, and I already had representation.
Human: Should a British person focus on writing British stuff? As a British person, a lot of the TV I consume and enjoy is American - thinking of series like Dexter, Stranger Things, American Horror Story, and many more. I also tend to enjoy writing stuff that isn't British, for the reason that I find Britishness itself quite limiting when it comes to producing drama (social class will usually have to become involved, the settings are either country manors or worn-down estates, it will either be set in a Northern dump or in the middle of London, etc...) I understand these limitations are a bit self-imposed, but for me British drama is a very narrow outlet, especially for speculative fiction. I want to write about superheroes, high school vampires, zombies, religious cults, serial killers etc. and I feel a lot of these ideas would be ruined by being \obviously\ British. I want to write about Alaskan wildernesses and small towns, not milkmen and corner shops. But I am also aware that writing scripts set in the USA can be very limiting in terms of my chances of success. Secondly, there are little nuances of American culture that I will almost definitely get wrong. So, what would your advice be regarding this? Should I write what I know and fight through the culture that I dislike, or is it foolhardy to write for another country's media? Assistant: If you can’t think of anything interesting about life in the country you’re born then you probably shouldn’t be a writer.	Human: Should a British person focus on writing British stuff? As a British person, a lot of the TV I consume and enjoy is American - thinking of series like Dexter, Stranger Things, American Horror Story, and many more. I also tend to enjoy writing stuff that isn't British, for the reason that I find Britishness itself quite limiting when it comes to producing drama (social class will usually have to become involved, the settings are either country manors or worn-down estates, it will either be set in a Northern dump or in the middle of London, etc...) I understand these limitations are a bit self-imposed, but for me British drama is a very narrow outlet, especially for speculative fiction. I want to write about superheroes, high school vampires, zombies, religious cults, serial killers etc. and I feel a lot of these ideas would be ruined by being \obviously\ British. I want to write about Alaskan wildernesses and small towns, not milkmen and corner shops. But I am also aware that writing scripts set in the USA can be very limiting in terms of my chances of success. Secondly, there are little nuances of American culture that I will almost definitely get wrong. So, what would your advice be regarding this? Should I write what I know and fight through the culture that I dislike, or is it foolhardy to write for another country's media? Assistant: I would say try a fusion. Invent the perfect hybrid world. Why do superheros, high school zombies and cults need to be confined to America? Attack The Block is massively improved because its specificity to British culture. Even British drama can be upended, go Ken Russell on it, burn down the aspects of the genre that bother you.
Human: Script where the hero turns out to be "guilty" - can't be done? Hi all! One of the story ideas I'm playing around resolves around a person - our hero - suspected of a terrible crime, and he sets out to prove his innocence, and by the end of the movie it would turn out that he is indeed guilty (and what we generally call "insane"). But that at least 50% - 75% of the time the reader would have not yet come to that conclusion but would be following the hero along for the (ever increasingly confusing) ride. Trying to avoid Unreliable Narrator, but yeah there might be also some of that. I would assume I would mstly do this through a lot of lying, and limiting the story to the hero's perspective - not showing how the investigations are going. Anyone ever try write something like this? Experiences as to what kind of troubles you have run into? Or know of scripts/movies that have already pulled this off? Or strong opinions as to why this is a bad idea that shouldn't even be attempted? Assistant: As mentioned all over the comments, it's been done to death. Charlie Kaufman's "Adaptation" even made fun of the trope and general hack concept.	Human: Script where the hero turns out to be "guilty" - can't be done? Hi all! One of the story ideas I'm playing around resolves around a person - our hero - suspected of a terrible crime, and he sets out to prove his innocence, and by the end of the movie it would turn out that he is indeed guilty (and what we generally call "insane"). But that at least 50% - 75% of the time the reader would have not yet come to that conclusion but would be following the hero along for the (ever increasingly confusing) ride. Trying to avoid Unreliable Narrator, but yeah there might be also some of that. I would assume I would mstly do this through a lot of lying, and limiting the story to the hero's perspective - not showing how the investigations are going. Anyone ever try write something like this? Experiences as to what kind of troubles you have run into? Or know of scripts/movies that have already pulled this off? Or strong opinions as to why this is a bad idea that shouldn't even be attempted? Assistant: No Way Out, Shutter Island, Memento, probably many others.
Human: Learning to sew my own clothes Hi all, I started sewing classes right before the pandemic and now I have a baby and am self-isolating as much as possible. Are there any good online resources, free or otherwise, to help me become skilled at sewing my own clothes? I would appreciate recommendations thanks! Assistant: I loved the videos here. https://sewoverit.com/start-sewing-with-us/ Really high quality and helpful. My clothes turned out sooooo much better after their tutorials. They also have a YouTube channel with sewalongs.	Human: Learning to sew my own clothes Hi all, I started sewing classes right before the pandemic and now I have a baby and am self-isolating as much as possible. Are there any good online resources, free or otherwise, to help me become skilled at sewing my own clothes? I would appreciate recommendations thanks! Assistant: A lot of patterns from Love Notions are very beginner-friendly, and they have sew-along tutorials on YouTube. They also have a huge Facebook group to help you with anything you get stuck on.
Human: I’m new to sewing but not to knitting. When I first began knitting, I ended up buying stuff I never used. So my question is, what are tools and supplies that you ACTUALLY use and recommend to have on hand? What stuff did you think you’d need but never actually use? Assistant: don't go nuts on presser feet. Most you'll need is straight/zigzag foot, zipper foot and maybe a buttonhole. If you're going to quilt, a 1/4" foot would be good, as would a walking foot, but most others can easily be replaced with a little time and effort on your part.	Human: I’m new to sewing but not to knitting. When I first began knitting, I ended up buying stuff I never used. So my question is, what are tools and supplies that you ACTUALLY use and recommend to have on hand? What stuff did you think you’d need but never actually use? Assistant: A good light, a dedicated pair of scissors, a seam ripper or three, and black, white and grey thread.
Human: how to cut straight? I'm a novice sewer who really wants to learn to sew properly. I'm starting with simple things like cushion covers and handkerchiefs and was wondering if anyone have tips to cut material on a straight line? I have some issues with shaky hands - not bad enough to massively effect my life but enough that there are noticeable issues with shapes I cut out - and it's been one of the barriers to getting deeper into sewing :P Any advice or suggestions for equipment that could be of help would be appreciated 😊 Assistant: Just because I didn't see it stated explicitly: when you cut fabric, the scissors should remain in contact with the cutting surface, sliding along the table top snipping as you go. I only rip fabrics that are medium weight or heavier. Fine or delicate fabrics like silk or rayon you can really distort the fabric terribly ripping it.	Human: how to cut straight? I'm a novice sewer who really wants to learn to sew properly. I'm starting with simple things like cushion covers and handkerchiefs and was wondering if anyone have tips to cut material on a straight line? I have some issues with shaky hands - not bad enough to massively effect my life but enough that there are noticeable issues with shapes I cut out - and it's been one of the barriers to getting deeper into sewing :P Any advice or suggestions for equipment that could be of help would be appreciated 😊 Assistant: My girlfriend and I rip as many things as we can. For anything we can rip we make a little snip at the edge of the fabric and rip along the grain and it'll be straight. This may mean having to square up your fabric before ripping because fabric can be pulled out of square over time for different reasons. My favorite is going to one of the better fabric stores in town and having them rip our cuts rather than cutting. It's faster and I don't have to worry about sloppy cutting.
Human: Question for those who own a dress form / mannequin: is it a worthwhile investment? I’m considering buying one, so curious how much people actually use them vs trying garments on for fit. If you have one, what do you mainly use it for (type of project, fitting issue etc)? Thanks in advance! Assistant: Have you considered sewing one? Bootstrap has a custom pattern where you enter your measurements so it’s very close to your body. If you search this forum you’ll see quite a few examples	Human: Question for those who own a dress form / mannequin: is it a worthwhile investment? I’m considering buying one, so curious how much people actually use them vs trying garments on for fit. If you have one, what do you mainly use it for (type of project, fitting issue etc)? Thanks in advance! Assistant: I bought a beautiful 1950's fully adjustable dress form at a swap meet for $40, it matches my body shape, even taking into account my long torso unlike modern mannequins that you can only make 3 measurement adjustments. I love leaving the half finished garment on it so I am inspired to complete it, when I put half finished things away, I forget about them.
Human: Has anyone had good luck using self made dress form from duct tape?, sewing forms are very expensive and I am not a full time sewer just want to dabble, I am also plus sized and the pattern sizes are nothing like pre-made, so I thought of having a form to work with would help when fitting Assistant: I made one but haven't used it yet as I'm planning to cut a pattern out of it and sew a proper one from sturdy and tightly weaved cotton canvas.	Human: Has anyone had good luck using self made dress form from duct tape?, sewing forms are very expensive and I am not a full time sewer just want to dabble, I am also plus sized and the pattern sizes are nothing like pre-made, so I thought of having a form to work with would help when fitting Assistant: I did one with water activated packing tape (brown paper tape that has adhesive like the lick and stick envelopes) over an old tshirt, and it worked well, because you can pin into it. It’s just really hard to find that kind of tape anymore.
Human: I'm looking for a good fabric marking pencil. I've had some tayors chalk that barely shows up on cotton. Just bought some marking pencils that don't seem to show up on any fabric! I don't know how i could possibly be messing up drawing a line so i have to assume I'm just buying poor quality marking impliments (from Joanne's). I'm looking for a quality marking pencil/chalk/or otherwise that will work. Preferrably washable but at this point I'll take any suggestions. Do y'all have any preferred types or brands? Assistant: I use Pilot that disappears with heat.	Human: I'm looking for a good fabric marking pencil. I've had some tayors chalk that barely shows up on cotton. Just bought some marking pencils that don't seem to show up on any fabric! I don't know how i could possibly be messing up drawing a line so i have to assume I'm just buying poor quality marking impliments (from Joanne's). I'm looking for a quality marking pencil/chalk/or otherwise that will work. Preferrably washable but at this point I'll take any suggestions. Do y'all have any preferred types or brands? Assistant: I like "Madam Sew Chalk Fabric Marker" that I ordered from Amazon. It's a rolling chalk marker.
Human: How do you store your patterns I know this has been asked before but its always nice to see what new answers and I'm in desperate need of a new system. I've got a few billion patterns and I rarely use them but can't get rid of them in case I do need them later. So what creative ways are yours put away and how are they organized. Assistant: I above everything (pieces, envelope, instructions) into gallon size Ziploc bags and write the pattern company/number on the bag. then they get shoved into a plastic storage bin. I also have a stack of digital printed patterns that I've yet to cut out and tape together that's totally sorted and organized..	Human: How do you store your patterns I know this has been asked before but its always nice to see what new answers and I'm in desperate need of a new system. I've got a few billion patterns and I rarely use them but can't get rid of them in case I do need them later. So what creative ways are yours put away and how are they organized. Assistant: Right now I have a wine box with all the patterns grouped by type and labeled with post it's (sticking up a few inches). In the future I will be purchasing comic book storage solutions... Edit: pictures of my method and the comic book one
Human: Are there any tips you wished you had known when you began sewing? I’m a newbie who’d like to learn how to sew, so I was wondering if there was any advice experienced sewers could share that I and others can take note of! Thanks in advance :D Assistant: Iron everything. You may not want to, or you don't think it matters. Just do it. Every time you sew a seam or hem or apply biases. It makes for exponentially better sewing and finished pieces.	Human: Are there any tips you wished you had known when you began sewing? I’m a newbie who’d like to learn how to sew, so I was wondering if there was any advice experienced sewers could share that I and others can take note of! Thanks in advance :D Assistant: I only just found out that you can use carbon copy paper and a poky rolly tool to trace your patterns onto your fabric and it was has improved my efficiency and happiness more than I can express. Frequently check your needle. Change it if it's dull. Don't burn your fabric with your iron. You'll be sad about the fabric and the sticky crap left on the iron.
Human: Hello sewing friends! Do you listen to music or Podcast while sewing? Hello, Whene I’m sewing or knitting, there is always some music or sportscast. It’s makes me calm, evan if I have to start over and over the project! 😅 Do you listen to music?Can you recommend some? ☺️ Have a nice weekend! Assistant: Rockabilly and rockin blues! I make my machine dance with me!!!! Chuck Berry takes me to the Promised Land and Phil Alvin Helps Me Dream!!! I have a vintage play list so only my favourites come on. I have had violent thoughts when Anne Murray or Madonna came on the radio so I learned to protect my machine. Some day I will come into the 21st century, but no rush!	Human: Hello sewing friends! Do you listen to music or Podcast while sewing? Hello, Whene I’m sewing or knitting, there is always some music or sportscast. It’s makes me calm, evan if I have to start over and over the project! 😅 Do you listen to music?Can you recommend some? ☺️ Have a nice weekend! Assistant: I listen to podcasts (I love the Something was Wrong podcast or The Unofficial Expert( or youtube videos that are informative or storytelling so that I dont have to look up too much! I also loveeee listening to ASMR videos when im doing the quite parts of sewing
Human: Hey I'm a newbie and just started looking at this new hobby. Want to answer my question? Basically I have been looking up questions on Google about the hobby and found it is not cheaper to make your own clothes but I was wondering if making them yourself makes them last longer. Longer than the stores so that if the answer is yes it might give me motivation. Also if any of you would like to give me tips, advice or anything else you are welcome to comment. Assistant: Clothes you make yourself will last longer because you generally take more care and finish them well. (Although I've got a skirt that has had a safety pin in the hem for about 12 years. I keep forgetting to fix it.) You can use better quality fabric and trims. You can use unique buttons and embellishments. You won't meet someone wearing the same clothes as yourself. You can fit the garment properly so it looks better on you. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself.	Human: Hey I'm a newbie and just started looking at this new hobby. Want to answer my question? Basically I have been looking up questions on Google about the hobby and found it is not cheaper to make your own clothes but I was wondering if making them yourself makes them last longer. Longer than the stores so that if the answer is yes it might give me motivation. Also if any of you would like to give me tips, advice or anything else you are welcome to comment. Assistant: Fancier you make it the more money you save. And it'll definitely last longer.
Human: Serious. Remodeling a 20' x 24' room with 10' ceilings into a sewing room for my wife. Can you please share storage ideas, and must have or often forgotten things? Thank you in advance. My wife has been sewing for 25 years. Has many machines and good ergonomic desk and chairs. Has a body form and things like that. Mostly looking for storage or ideas that require more room. I really want to make this nice for my sweetheart. Assistant: Peg boards, place to hang current patterns. Rolling cart(s) how sweet of this to do this for your wife.	Human: Serious. Remodeling a 20' x 24' room with 10' ceilings into a sewing room for my wife. Can you please share storage ideas, and must have or often forgotten things? Thank you in advance. My wife has been sewing for 25 years. Has many machines and good ergonomic desk and chairs. Has a body form and things like that. Mostly looking for storage or ideas that require more room. I really want to make this nice for my sweetheart. Assistant: Built in drawers/shelves the size for the way she stores her fabric. She may want a small closet in there for mostly finished pieces. Definitely something that can fold out for a larger working surface that can be put away when she’s done.
Human: HELP Finding a YouTube Channel with Instructions on Sewing I had started watching a YouTube series that was basically a course in sewing. Iirc it had episode titles like something-101 etc. It seemed really comprehensive. I watched many episodes of it. Well, I finally got a machine for Christmas and I went to watch and sew my way through the course and I can't find it anywhere! What I had watched covered different types of seams and stuff like making bias. This is the type of stuff I want to learn but I can't find this channel or any similar videos. Anyone have any suggestions for a series to watch? I don't care about making things I just want to learn about seams and sewing techniques. (What I'm looking for might be considered very dry/boring to other people, I would really like to stay away from anything that starts "hey guys welcome to my channel" hah) Assistant: Check 'Made to Sew' she has a beginner sewing series	Human: HELP Finding a YouTube Channel with Instructions on Sewing I had started watching a YouTube series that was basically a course in sewing. Iirc it had episode titles like something-101 etc. It seemed really comprehensive. I watched many episodes of it. Well, I finally got a machine for Christmas and I went to watch and sew my way through the course and I can't find it anywhere! What I had watched covered different types of seams and stuff like making bias. This is the type of stuff I want to learn but I can't find this channel or any similar videos. Anyone have any suggestions for a series to watch? I don't care about making things I just want to learn about seams and sewing techniques. (What I'm looking for might be considered very dry/boring to other people, I would really like to stay away from anything that starts "hey guys welcome to my channel" hah) Assistant: I really enjoy Evelyn Wood's videos. She has more informational videos about sewing techniques than follow along projects. However, she also has something called 'Vintage Sewing School' which you have to pay to have access to. I think that might be more follow along type projects (I'm not 100% sure as I only watch her free stuff).
Human: Help! Sewing Machines as Carry On Item? Hi! I've just spent an hour on hold with Air Canada and no closer to an answer so I'm hoping someone here might have one! Has anyone ever tried bringing their sewing machine as a carry on item? I don't want to check it, I'm concerned it will get ruined. It fits the dimension limits and weight restrictions but I'm worried about the whole pointy things angle. Any ideas? Anyone tried this? Assistant: Yes! Tsa has guidance for sewing machines (just take out the needle!) I moved across the country with my sewing machine in a backpack that i handled very carefully. Depending on the tsa officer they might tag your machine as it goes through the x-ray because they don't know what it is. I had a funny moment where mine got tagged by one tsa person and the next rolled her eyes so hard because she knew it was a sewing machine. https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/sewing-machine	Human: Help! Sewing Machines as Carry On Item? Hi! I've just spent an hour on hold with Air Canada and no closer to an answer so I'm hoping someone here might have one! Has anyone ever tried bringing their sewing machine as a carry on item? I don't want to check it, I'm concerned it will get ruined. It fits the dimension limits and weight restrictions but I'm worried about the whole pointy things angle. Any ideas? Anyone tried this? Assistant: Should be no problem. Don't bring anything sharp into the cabin though. Lots of folks at Pattern Review mention it in discussions so use their search function if you want users' experiences.
Human: What am I doing wrong? Every time I sew, something goes wrong... For example, today, I had to sew a quarter circle skirt (looks simple, right?). I took my measurements at least three times to make sure I didn't measure wrong (each time got the same result), looked into multiple calculators online (+ doing my own calculation by hand) to get the radius, they were all coherent. I did my mock-up: everything was wrong, starting with it didn't fit me at all (way too big). I trimmed the perimeter of the skirt to finally find something that fit... I had to remove 26 cm in total... Every time I do a circle skirt (which is supposed to be a beginner project), I never get it right (it's always too big). I thought maybe it was my fault, because I tend to look at YouTube videos in English, which isn't my native language... Maybe I didn't understand something correctly. But the videos in my native language explain the process the same way the English ones did. Good thing to know my English is as good as I think it is. But the problem arises in every project, whether they're beginner-friendly or much more complex. There is always something that is cut wrong, something that ends up shorter than its neighbour (which is supposed to be the same length). I know I'm not the best at being attentive (got worse after I got the 2020 Plague... Love working in healthcare), but this is getting out of hand. I tend to avoid sewing for that reason. My first thought when I think about doing a project is that I'm going to mess something up. I see many patterns that look fantastic, I've many project ideas, but even beginner ones, I'm starting to think they're out of my reach. I know it's surely because I'm getting less confident every time with my skills due to the constant little failures in each project. My first instinct is to say "F\\k it, just sell your sewing machine and just go watch Netflix, that you can do". But I don't want to. I started sewing because nothing fits me in stores, and I like the process of it, but not how bad it makes me feel with each failure. I know it's part of learning, but I feel those failures don't teach me anything, since I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. I've done complicated projects before without problem, but more and more, even beginner projects are a daunting task. Did this happened to anyone? How did you get out of it? Assistant: I have been sewing for decades and still have screwups even on east projects. For me, avoiding them is really about being attentive. As much as I wish that some of it would come on auto-pilot, it doesn't. One common place I goof up is when the fabric has no obvious "wrong" side. If I'm not careful I put a right side to a wrong side, then things don't line up or are the wrong shape. Now I put a small piece of masking tape or safety pin on the right side of each piece.	Human: What am I doing wrong? Every time I sew, something goes wrong... For example, today, I had to sew a quarter circle skirt (looks simple, right?). I took my measurements at least three times to make sure I didn't measure wrong (each time got the same result), looked into multiple calculators online (+ doing my own calculation by hand) to get the radius, they were all coherent. I did my mock-up: everything was wrong, starting with it didn't fit me at all (way too big). I trimmed the perimeter of the skirt to finally find something that fit... I had to remove 26 cm in total... Every time I do a circle skirt (which is supposed to be a beginner project), I never get it right (it's always too big). I thought maybe it was my fault, because I tend to look at YouTube videos in English, which isn't my native language... Maybe I didn't understand something correctly. But the videos in my native language explain the process the same way the English ones did. Good thing to know my English is as good as I think it is. But the problem arises in every project, whether they're beginner-friendly or much more complex. There is always something that is cut wrong, something that ends up shorter than its neighbour (which is supposed to be the same length). I know I'm not the best at being attentive (got worse after I got the 2020 Plague... Love working in healthcare), but this is getting out of hand. I tend to avoid sewing for that reason. My first thought when I think about doing a project is that I'm going to mess something up. I see many patterns that look fantastic, I've many project ideas, but even beginner ones, I'm starting to think they're out of my reach. I know it's surely because I'm getting less confident every time with my skills due to the constant little failures in each project. My first instinct is to say "F\\k it, just sell your sewing machine and just go watch Netflix, that you can do". But I don't want to. I started sewing because nothing fits me in stores, and I like the process of it, but not how bad it makes me feel with each failure. I know it's part of learning, but I feel those failures don't teach me anything, since I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. I've done complicated projects before without problem, but more and more, even beginner projects are a daunting task. Did this happened to anyone? How did you get out of it? Assistant: Everyone makes mistakes, even experienced sewers. Don't beat yourself up. Where are you cutting? Do you have a cutting mat or table? Do you use a rotary cutter or scissors? Did you make a pattern and try it on as best you could, then cut it out? Do you mark your seam allowances etc? Take your time, measure again (even whilst pinning the pattern if you need). You'll do it I am sure!
Human: How can I learn how to sew? I am 23 years old, my only knowledge of sewing was from a class I took in high school. We just learned how to sew pj pants and mittens but I’ve desperately wanted to learn how to sew/make clothes. It does look very difficult to me but I really would like to learn. Would anybody know where or how I could gain more knowledge and become more confident in sewing? I just wanna learn.. I do have a sewing machine for practice as well. Thanks in advance. Assistant: See if there are any classes in your area. I had a machine but no clue how to use it. The tips you'll learn from the teacher and classmates will be invaluable.	Human: How can I learn how to sew? I am 23 years old, my only knowledge of sewing was from a class I took in high school. We just learned how to sew pj pants and mittens but I’ve desperately wanted to learn how to sew/make clothes. It does look very difficult to me but I really would like to learn. Would anybody know where or how I could gain more knowledge and become more confident in sewing? I just wanna learn.. I do have a sewing machine for practice as well. Thanks in advance. Assistant: Sewing is very much a trial and error game. Every project you do will get better
Human: Gift for someone learning to sew My friend recently began sewing. He got a Brother sewing machine and is starting by learning how to sew his own face mask. His birthday is coming up. What are some good gifts for a novice sewer? Less than $50 would be ideal Assistant: A good pair of fabric scissors.	Human: Gift for someone learning to sew My friend recently began sewing. He got a Brother sewing machine and is starting by learning how to sew his own face mask. His birthday is coming up. What are some good gifts for a novice sewer? Less than $50 would be ideal Assistant: A rotary cutter and mat would be useful! You could also do basic notions like pin and bobbins and marking pencils.
Human: I'm a woodworker, looking for gift ideas for my sewing friend Title kind of says it all. I work with wood, she works with fabric, and I'd like to make something useful for her I was thinking about some sort of storage box or bobbin holder? Is that something people use? Is there another item that I may not think of because sewing isn't a hobby of mine? I really appreciate any suggestions - thank you! Assistant: Just to get some ideas flowing, I have a few questions for you to think about. What sort of woodworking do you usually do? How involved of a project are you looking for? There is a big difference between a rough tiny wooden caddy that holds a few pairs of scissors, and a four sided spinning shelf that holds 100 spools of thread. Also, I have seen pictures of a really cute stool, with a button for the seat. Which isn't really a useful sewing thing, but definitely a sewing themed woodworking project.	Human: I'm a woodworker, looking for gift ideas for my sewing friend Title kind of says it all. I work with wood, she works with fabric, and I'd like to make something useful for her I was thinking about some sort of storage box or bobbin holder? Is that something people use? Is there another item that I may not think of because sewing isn't a hobby of mine? I really appreciate any suggestions - thank you! Assistant: Iirc, this Youtuber, Evelyn Wood, had a friend make this GLORIOUS wooden, collapsible, vintage-y sewing box with her name inlaid on it. Not sure the exact video where one sees it, but here's her channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EvelynWoodTV
Human: What is the best iron for sewing? I’m looking at steam irons, stations, everything. What’s the best? Assistant: I love my mom’s Rowenta iron. Heats up super quickly and it feels very lightweight despite being pretty large	Human: What is the best iron for sewing? I’m looking at steam irons, stations, everything. What’s the best? Assistant: I am having a passionate love affair with my Oliso Pro. Seriously, cannot say enough good about it. Never worry about putting it down. Steams linen with aplomb. Doesn't turn itself off until 30 minutes have passed. Big water tank. Nice front point. I had even invested in an expensive gravity feed iron to help me cope with large lengths of linen. I got rid of it. (Not affiliated, just a fan)
Human: Looking for a wedding dress, thinking of having someone make it for me? Hi All! I had originally posted about this in the r/DIYweddings and someone suggested i post in here for better advice! I'm having a really hard time finding a dress that is unique enough and in my price range. I know I shouldn't put so much energy on finding the "perfect dress" and that in the long run, it doesn't really matter, but it just seems like I find something wrong in every wedding dress I see. I have found some dresses that I like, but they are just a lot more theatrical/more niche dresses that are not wedding dresses and very colorful. I'm thinking that I could maybe hire a seamstress (tailor? not sure of the specific terminology) to recreate a dress that I find that I like into an actual wedding dress. Does anyone have any experience with having someone make their own dress/any recommendations? any help is appreciated. Some more information: My max budget is around $1000. I believe in paying people for their work and wouldn't want to pay anyone less than their worth so I'm not sure if hiring someone is even feasibly possible. Styles i am particularly interested (for reference because i got a lot of questions about this): I really like dresses with bishop sleeves, tight sweetheart/or deep v- neckline, tulle, beading (i know this is expensive), and lace. I love vintage styles, medieval-inspired, and I'm planning for a fall fairy-garden themed wedding so i really want a very light flowy dress that fits me right, doesn't break the bank, and is also something that i actually like. Thanks for all your help! Assistant: I’d try and make like a Pintrest board of various looks and elements you like to present to a designer. It sounds like you have a pretty specific look in mind and visuals are super helpful.	Human: Looking for a wedding dress, thinking of having someone make it for me? Hi All! I had originally posted about this in the r/DIYweddings and someone suggested i post in here for better advice! I'm having a really hard time finding a dress that is unique enough and in my price range. I know I shouldn't put so much energy on finding the "perfect dress" and that in the long run, it doesn't really matter, but it just seems like I find something wrong in every wedding dress I see. I have found some dresses that I like, but they are just a lot more theatrical/more niche dresses that are not wedding dresses and very colorful. I'm thinking that I could maybe hire a seamstress (tailor? not sure of the specific terminology) to recreate a dress that I find that I like into an actual wedding dress. Does anyone have any experience with having someone make their own dress/any recommendations? any help is appreciated. Some more information: My max budget is around $1000. I believe in paying people for their work and wouldn't want to pay anyone less than their worth so I'm not sure if hiring someone is even feasibly possible. Styles i am particularly interested (for reference because i got a lot of questions about this): I really like dresses with bishop sleeves, tight sweetheart/or deep v- neckline, tulle, beading (i know this is expensive), and lace. I love vintage styles, medieval-inspired, and I'm planning for a fall fairy-garden themed wedding so i really want a very light flowy dress that fits me right, doesn't break the bank, and is also something that i actually like. Thanks for all your help! Assistant: Try looking at designers that are local to you on Facebook or google or something. Then you can get immersed in the design process and add that to your memories :) congrats!!!
Human: Where to find a dress form in an unusual size Hi! I want to start draping to make patterns but I have been unable to find a dress form that is anywhere close to my body size/shape. I am a really small person and I’m a post top surgery trans man so my body shape is a little different from the standard proportions that dress model manufacturers seem to use. I need q dress form that’s around 30”-25”29” with (more or less) adult male proportions. The closest thing I’ve been able to find is a child sized one and the measurements are close enough but the torso is way too short and doesn’t really look like my body shape. Does the thing I am looking for exist anywhere or will I have to try and make one myself? Assistant: You might be able to make one yourself with the Bootstrap Fashion DIY Dress form. I haven't seen any reviews for the men's version but you can find lots of video reviews of construction. https://patterns.bootstrapfashion.com/diy-dress-form-sewing-pattern/made-to-measure-modern-fit-mens-jacket-sewing-pattern-mens-dress-form.html	Human: Where to find a dress form in an unusual size Hi! I want to start draping to make patterns but I have been unable to find a dress form that is anywhere close to my body size/shape. I am a really small person and I’m a post top surgery trans man so my body shape is a little different from the standard proportions that dress model manufacturers seem to use. I need q dress form that’s around 30”-25”29” with (more or less) adult male proportions. The closest thing I’ve been able to find is a child sized one and the measurements are close enough but the torso is way too short and doesn’t really look like my body shape. Does the thing I am looking for exist anywhere or will I have to try and make one myself? Assistant: I had a look around, and I think your best bet would be to either make it yourself (with friends to help) OR buying a custom dress-form from a company like this: https://beatriceforms.com/ A third option might be to buy a thinner (than your size) dress form, and purchase a "padding system" like: https://www.fabulousfit.com/ Congratulations on your post-top surgery! And happy sewing!
Human: Question: My girlfriend loves Sewing and I need Christmas ideas My girlfriend loves sewing, mostly smaller projects like repairs, sometimes she makes dresses and stuff but not too often. I wanna ask her what kind of things she needs/wants for sewing but I want it to be a surprise and she's a smart cookie so if I ask she'll catch onto me. I know basically nothing about sewing, I know she has a sewing machine and like a separate hand sewing kit. Are there any cool gizmos or gadgets that would make her sewing life easier? Thanks Assistant: If she is a sewer with basic skills, I suggest sewing lessons to up her game. This was a great gift for me nearly 50 years ago as it connected me with other sewing enthusiasts and really put me on a path to love sewing. I learned everything from what my machine could actually do to altering commercial patterns to drafting new patterns. I turned my hobby into a business when my children were young. All of this success was because my Mom and Dad saw my passion and gave me lessons as a gift when I was 17.	Human: Question: My girlfriend loves Sewing and I need Christmas ideas My girlfriend loves sewing, mostly smaller projects like repairs, sometimes she makes dresses and stuff but not too often. I wanna ask her what kind of things she needs/wants for sewing but I want it to be a surprise and she's a smart cookie so if I ask she'll catch onto me. I know basically nothing about sewing, I know she has a sewing machine and like a separate hand sewing kit. Are there any cool gizmos or gadgets that would make her sewing life easier? Thanks Assistant: Why don’t you put together a customized gift basket with things she likes to use, stalk her Amazon wish list if you can, maybe there’s a fabric she’s been eyeing, get her about 4 yards of it
Human: What is the smallest hand sewing needle possible? I have a size 12 or 10 needle at the moment trying to bead some 11/0 beads onto a garment and the beads keep breaking due to the eye in the needle being too large. Assistant: There are special needles for beads that are really thin.	Human: What is the smallest hand sewing needle possible? I have a size 12 or 10 needle at the moment trying to bead some 11/0 beads onto a garment and the beads keep breaking due to the eye in the needle being too large. Assistant: Idea: snip off the eye and superglue the thread to the cut needle?
Human: Is it worth investing into a plotter for pattern printing? So our old not-so-trusted printer has bit the dust. I am the only one at home ever printing stuff for leisure, and it's usually to print out sewing patterns in A4 and then spend hours gluing pages together... So I've bee wondering... Would it make sense to invest into a plotter? Can I convert any pdf pattern into whatever file type plotters use to have my patterns printed and cut? Or am I better off just getting a regular printer and stick to my hated pass-time of assembling pages? Assistant: You can even cut directly onto fabric with a projector. Here’s me cutting out a t shirt front with projector	Human: Is it worth investing into a plotter for pattern printing? So our old not-so-trusted printer has bit the dust. I am the only one at home ever printing stuff for leisure, and it's usually to print out sewing patterns in A4 and then spend hours gluing pages together... So I've bee wondering... Would it make sense to invest into a plotter? Can I convert any pdf pattern into whatever file type plotters use to have my patterns printed and cut? Or am I better off just getting a regular printer and stick to my hated pass-time of assembling pages? Assistant: If you are in the US you might want to look at Office Depot or Staples or Costco for poster printing services (and there might be others online). If you can afford the wait for delivery it might ultimately be less of a hassle/expense than owning a large printer.
Human: Want to Buy Some Shears for My Wife...Advice Please Hello there. My wife is big into sewing. For her birthday I was thinking about buying her a new pair of fabric shears. The fancy knife store that specialized in Japanese knives in my town has a pair of Japanese carbon steel fabric shears that look solid and they rave about (Hidekane No. 501). They cost around $100CDN and I was wondering if that would be money well spent or if there is something better I might look into? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks. Assistant: KAI scissors are my fav. You will find them in independent sewing stores.	Human: Want to Buy Some Shears for My Wife...Advice Please Hello there. My wife is big into sewing. For her birthday I was thinking about buying her a new pair of fabric shears. The fancy knife store that specialized in Japanese knives in my town has a pair of Japanese carbon steel fabric shears that look solid and they rave about (Hidekane No. 501). They cost around $100CDN and I was wondering if that would be money well spent or if there is something better I might look into? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks. Assistant: It's important that the handles fit your wife's hand. She may prefer a shorter blade or longer, so why not take her along? If you buy without her, make sure they are returnable/exchangeable. My hubby spent $ on a set but unfortunately my hands would not fit, and I have medium hands.
Human: I am thinking of pinning these tags to my quilts when selling them at craft fairs. I would love your thoughts, opinions, and critique: good or bad. I have been thinking about adding something like this for a long time to my handmade quilts when selling them to people I know and at craft shows. I feel like the types of people who buy quilts aren't the types who also make them, so they often don't know what goes into making them and think they are being overcharged. And on the flip-side, when selling to friends/family, I have fallen victim to the unfortunate feeling like they just don't understand what goes into sewing them things and then take them for granted / expect a lower price / never use them. This is my solution to that. http://imgur.com/efBo9vu Thoughts? Do you like the concept? Do you like the design? Do you like the way it's worded? Please don't hold back. Assistant: You don't need to share how much you spent and your hourly wage with people. "When you buy a handmade quilt you are investing in more than just pretty bedding. You are acquiring a piece of art with many hours of thought and love stitched straight into the seams. I hope you love it as much as I loved making it, Erin"	Human: I am thinking of pinning these tags to my quilts when selling them at craft fairs. I would love your thoughts, opinions, and critique: good or bad. I have been thinking about adding something like this for a long time to my handmade quilts when selling them to people I know and at craft shows. I feel like the types of people who buy quilts aren't the types who also make them, so they often don't know what goes into making them and think they are being overcharged. And on the flip-side, when selling to friends/family, I have fallen victim to the unfortunate feeling like they just don't understand what goes into sewing them things and then take them for granted / expect a lower price / never use them. This is my solution to that. http://imgur.com/efBo9vu Thoughts? Do you like the concept? Do you like the design? Do you like the way it's worded? Please don't hold back. Assistant: Im not crazy about the formatting/style; it looks like a government form.
Human: does sewing ever make you feel stupid? I am a relatively new sewist and I sometimes find myself staring at patterns and completely confused. I'll research the pattern on the internet and the reviews will say things like, " such an easy pattern I whipped it up in an afternoon." Meanwhile I'm on day two and scratching my head. I usually do figure it out in the end, but there are times where I feel very dense. I was just curious if anyone else gets this? Assistant: It makes me feel incredibly stupid and useless sometimes. I have literally come down from my office/craft room near tears after ripping out seams for like 1/2 the time I sewed lamenting to my husband how bad I feel for not being better already. It just takes practice.	Human: does sewing ever make you feel stupid? I am a relatively new sewist and I sometimes find myself staring at patterns and completely confused. I'll research the pattern on the internet and the reviews will say things like, " such an easy pattern I whipped it up in an afternoon." Meanwhile I'm on day two and scratching my head. I usually do figure it out in the end, but there are times where I feel very dense. I was just curious if anyone else gets this? Assistant: Every single pattern makes me feel like the stupidest person on earth. I’m not! I just have a very bad visual imagination. I have to remind myself that if I just follow the written steps, it’ll be fine. And mostly it is. But each project brings the pit of doom in my stomach. I have the same thing with knitting, and I’ve been knitting a lot longer. Sometimes I just have to trust the pattern will work.
Human: Is there a website or program where I can input my measurements & it'll spit out a draft silhouette? Hope my title makes sense, characters were limited. Basically, I'm sick of every single fashion plate or fashion sketch looking like the pattern's intended wearer should be eight feet tall and with legs like that are six times the length of the torso. I'm sure there are some people out there with these body proportions but that is absolutely not me. Gorgeous long flowy skirts and dresses that look ethereal and sensual on a fashion concept sketch just make me look like Mrs Potatohead wreathed in tulle. Is there a website or program where I could input my body measurements - height, bust/waist/hips etc - and get an approximation of what that looks like as a sketch or silhouette? Then I could sketch my ideas over the sketch. This would be really helpful to visualise what a pattern might look like on my body, and I could print out or save the image so that I could use it over and over again instead of having to sketch it out each time. I've heard of bodyvisualiser.net but that creates a 3D model... I more mean like creating a flat 2D sketch, sort of like this except maybe without so much detail. Just to give a rough idea. Assistant: Wear black tights and a tight black t-shirt. Stand in front of a white wall or door. Take (or have someone else take) photos from the front and the side. Print out the photos, put a sheet of plain paper over the top and trace the outline of your body. Take a photo of your tracing and you have your own personal outline.	Human: Is there a website or program where I can input my measurements & it'll spit out a draft silhouette? Hope my title makes sense, characters were limited. Basically, I'm sick of every single fashion plate or fashion sketch looking like the pattern's intended wearer should be eight feet tall and with legs like that are six times the length of the torso. I'm sure there are some people out there with these body proportions but that is absolutely not me. Gorgeous long flowy skirts and dresses that look ethereal and sensual on a fashion concept sketch just make me look like Mrs Potatohead wreathed in tulle. Is there a website or program where I could input my body measurements - height, bust/waist/hips etc - and get an approximation of what that looks like as a sketch or silhouette? Then I could sketch my ideas over the sketch. This would be really helpful to visualise what a pattern might look like on my body, and I could print out or save the image so that I could use it over and over again instead of having to sketch it out each time. I've heard of bodyvisualiser.net but that creates a 3D model... I more mean like creating a flat 2D sketch, sort of like this except maybe without so much detail. Just to give a rough idea. Assistant: There is https://www.sewist.com/editor/mix who can generate a pattern with your measurement, if that helps