Hi Bonnie - So when I need a light box - I have a small desktop sized one that is great for small projects but is just too small for the 18x18 sized blocks that I normally do, and especially when I’m doing an appliqué border. Every once in awhile, I have access to a large architect’s light table, which is the optimum way to be able to transfer. Usually though, I just use the old-school method of finding a good sized window that has good light, and I tape my pattern to the window and then tape the background fabric piece on top of that. Usually the pattern has cross-marks in the center of it, so it’s easy to line the fabric up with the pattern. I fold the block square in half, and then in half in other direction (so now it’s quartered). For borders, I fold it in half lengthwise and finger press a crease, then in half width size and press a crease - before laying it on top of the pattern. I want to be sure that the design is lined up properly. Also, did you see that I only trace the stem lines? I want everything to look natural and organic. I think I explained that in the video. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
If one has to use the same pattern multiple times that tool has perforated the paper and it will tear apart. How do you prevent that from happening??? Multiple copies???
Hi there! You can make multiple copies, but there is such a thing as a flat-edge tracing wheel. It can still weaken the paper with multiple uses because you're essentially tracing the same line over and over but it doesn't puncture the paper quite like a traditional tracing wheel. Having said that, I find I get stronger chalk lines with a traditional tracing wheel with less effort. I recommend you try out various methods and see which one you prefer. - Betsy F
Sorry if you've mentioned this already but how come you only transfer the stems, not the whole pattern? Great tutorial btw, I've been struggling with how to transfer a needle turn appliqué to my fabric but this helped me out a lot!
I liked her presentation. She is clear and precise.
I've used the tracing method since I was child. My mother taught this method for sewing patterns. Great to seei g being revieved
Gracias por compartir sus proyectos desde Colombiaa bendiciones
I wish I could have seen your tracings.
What kind of light box is best, and what do you use?
Hi Bonnie -
So when I need a light box - I have a small desktop sized one that is great for small projects but is just too small for the 18x18 sized blocks that I normally do, and especially when I’m doing an appliqué border.
Every once in awhile, I have access to a large architect’s light table, which is the optimum way to be able to transfer.
Usually though, I just use the old-school method of finding a good sized window that has good light, and I tape my pattern to the window and then tape the background fabric piece on top of that. Usually the pattern has cross-marks in the center of it, so it’s easy to line the fabric up with the pattern.
I fold the block square in half, and then in half in other direction (so now it’s quartered).
For borders, I fold it in half lengthwise and finger press a crease, then in half width size and press a crease - before laying it on top of the pattern. I want to be sure that the design is lined up properly.
Also, did you see that I only trace the stem lines? I want everything to look natural and organic. I think I explained that in the video.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.
If one has to use the same pattern multiple times that tool has perforated the paper and it will tear apart. How do you prevent that from happening??? Multiple copies???
Hi there! You can make multiple copies, but there is such a thing as a flat-edge tracing wheel. It can still weaken the paper with multiple uses because you're essentially tracing the same line over and over but it doesn't puncture the paper quite like a traditional tracing wheel. Having said that, I find I get stronger chalk lines with a traditional tracing wheel with less effort. I recommend you try out various methods and see which one you prefer. - Betsy F
Sorry if you've mentioned this already but how come you only transfer the stems, not the whole pattern? Great tutorial btw, I've been struggling with how to transfer a needle turn appliqué to my fabric but this helped me out a lot!