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Step 2Preparing your sewing machine for sewing plastic bags...
I would really like to advise you to use "button" or "craft" thread which is thicker than normal sewing thread, but...my stupid expensive swiss-made sewing machine couldn't handle it. And I'm even really good at adjusting my thread tension, both top and bobbin, but I couldn't make it work.
I think if you have an old dependable no-thrills sewing machine that you'll probably be able to use a thicker thread. I ended up using all-purpose thread on my bags.
I used a size 14 needle (medium to heavy fabric needle). A size 16 would work too, but I wouldn't go as small as a 12 because sometimes you'll be going through a lot of layers of plastic and it'll just break your needle. If you can use the "button" or craft thread you should use a size 16 or 18 needle so the eye of the needle can accomodate that thread.
SEW WITH A REALLY LONG STITCH! My stitch in these examples is about 1/4" long. You do not want to perforate the plastic too much. If your bag has that manufacturers stitching that I showed in the 1st step, that's a good example of the stitch length you should use.
If you want to practice on some of the plastic first, skip ahead to the cutting handles step because you'll have a little scrap left over from that.
If you have thread problems...well, I can't advise for all machines, but if you look at my pictures, you'll see wiggly looking seams that show I still had tension problems, but as long as it held the seam I left it. You don't want actual loops on the bottom so if you see that try loosening your upper tension.
I think if you have an old dependable no-thrills sewing machine that you'll probably be able to use a thicker thread. I ended up using all-purpose thread on my bags.
I used a size 14 needle (medium to heavy fabric needle). A size 16 would work too, but I wouldn't go as small as a 12 because sometimes you'll be going through a lot of layers of plastic and it'll just break your needle. If you can use the "button" or craft thread you should use a size 16 or 18 needle so the eye of the needle can accomodate that thread.
SEW WITH A REALLY LONG STITCH! My stitch in these examples is about 1/4" long. You do not want to perforate the plastic too much. If your bag has that manufacturers stitching that I showed in the 1st step, that's a good example of the stitch length you should use.
If you want to practice on some of the plastic first, skip ahead to the cutting handles step because you'll have a little scrap left over from that.
If you have thread problems...well, I can't advise for all machines, but if you look at my pictures, you'll see wiggly looking seams that show I still had tension problems, but as long as it held the seam I left it. You don't want actual loops on the bottom so if you see that try loosening your upper tension.
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May 22, 2012. 5:45 AMsnomoon
says:
You might want to try Upholstery thread. I use it when I make these and it is nice and strong and don't have the problem with my machine (maybe will not work on yours, but may be worth a try) thinking it is too thick. I have a fickle machine too!
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