Would you use this service?

I don't have this all thought out yet, but I wanted to run it by some people who would give me their honest opinion, and I love how everyone here speaks their mind, so I am putting this out here for feedback.

I am considering opening a store that would have sewing machines available to use on an hourly basis, along with my services to help you sew whatever it is that you would like to work on. Think "Internet Cafe," but with all different sorts of sewing machines (embroidery machines, sergers, quilting machines, fabric pleaters, etc.) instead of computers.

I was thinking I could do sewing classes, sewing "camps" for kids, offer lockers for rent (for your ongoing projects), and also sell some fabrics and sewing supplies of all sorts. Maybe I would have a lounge area for chrocheting, knitting, and hand embroidery

If you would use this service, how much do you think would be fair to charge per hour to use a sewing machine?

Also, what do you think would be the best location for such a store? What times/days would be the best to be open for you?

What kinds of classes would you like to see offered? What sort of items would you like to make? What sort of fabrics and supplies would you like to see offered for sale?

Thank you so, so, so much for your input!

SusieQ June 8, 2008 1:46 am | Link

SusieQ I would love to go to a store like you describe.I used to sew PT (did wedding,mostly not brides, but everyone else) when I was in college and still miss it. But the cost of the new machines have kept me from getting back into it just for doing my things this time. I love to crochet and would love to be able to have "company" while I create. My sister-in-law has many times told me to give lessons at the adult ed or on my own but never really thought seriously about it. Please kept the forum posted on your progress on this.
As to times and where, well "in town" would be my first sugestion, if you weren't considering in your home (like the ceramics classes I used to do also)I know rents there would probably be high, but I wonder if you could piggy back with a complimenting business(there was Yarn and Sewing store in Morristown I used to go to that had classes and "meetings" to exchange patterns and such,,maybe a gym) Space would depend on how many machines were involved, the knitting and crocheting lockers sounds practical but would also take up space but would provide a reason to go out to work on a project. Times probably the an afternoon and evenings several days a week in the beginning would work until the word got out.
I would make the suggestion to aim your "advetising" to be friendly to both genders as over the years I can't tell you how many MEN have asked me to teach them to crochet,and one man a Lefty, especially went to take on mastered patterns that I dreaded. (another reason Mabe a gym would work) Any way I love your idea and really looking forward to being one of your first clients.

ja fan June 8, 2008 4:12 am | Link

I don't think I would use your machines, but I would love a place where you could take knitting/crocheting lessons and buy supplies for sewing and embroidery. There are no good cross stitch stores around anymore. Years ago there was a beautiful one in Chester. I really miss having JoAnn Fabrics in town.

Kate S. June 8, 2008 8:07 am | Link

Depending on the cost of use, time, etc... I would definitely make use of your service! I always have to have my skirts, dresses and pants hemmed because I am only 5' 1" !!!

Love it, love it, love it! I don't know how to sew at all but would love to learn enough to be able to make curtains, and other projects that you see in the magazine. I love the idea of learning how to do the project I'm interested in, great idea. One of the woman that I scrapbook with recently went to a class in Morristown to learn to knit because she couldn't find anything around here offering that kind of service. Please keep us posted on your idea. As far as projects I would say home related, not making my own clothes. I would love to know how to make minor alterations though.

Bessie June 8, 2008 8:51 am | Link

I would also love this! I've been eager to learn how to sew for quite a while. Not sure how much I'd pay per hour, maybe 7-10? Obviously, I'd pay more for classes. Personally, I'd love to see a class in sewing kid clothes ... I think there are probably lots of moms like myself, who never had an interest in sewing/crafting before giving birth!

I'm a crocheter, and would also just enjoy a space to meet others and exchange ideas!

NewHere June 8, 2008 9:06 am | Link

yes susieQ -
I love your idea :)

excitedandsettled June 8, 2008 9:19 am | Link

I would LOVE to learn to crochet!!! I think thats a great idea to open a place that offered this on a regular basis. However the "sewing" part isnt up my alley. I'd rather pay someone to sew. But both of my grandmothers loved to chrochet and I think its a great thing to learn. But honestly...I've wanted to do this for a long time now. Just can't seem to find the time. I know this doesnt help much.......

Can you open a store that sells time???? I would be your first customer!!! :)

LadyBug June 8, 2008 9:47 am | Link

It sounds like a great idea. I think it may be too narrow of a focus. If you added other classes like art classes, scrapbooking, etc. it may be more lucrative. I could only see myself going to a sewing only shop sporadically. However, if it also had art classes for kids going on simultaneously, I would go more often.

I think it's a good idea. I have my own machine and do sew but sometimes I have trouble with a project and would definitely like to be able to connect with other people on projects. And it would be terrific to have a fabric store. I'm probably driving to Union today to get a good selection of fabric.

Dolly June 8, 2008 10:22 am | Link

You know, now that I think of it....there used to be a little knitting store in hackettstown back in the day. I think it was right near The Sub Shak..next to Davids Country Inn....I used to love to go there before the we hit "the pool". I was alot younger...but my mom would let me pick out a quick cross stitch project I could work on at the pool. Ahh...the good old days.

But another place like that would be awesome in town. I do like to cross stitch too!! But again...its the darn "no time" problem again!

Does anyone remember that store?

LadyBug June 8, 2008 10:30 am | Link

I love this idea, SusieQ!

I'd love to even be able to bring my own machine and have a place to sit and sew and work on projects. I dont have an appropriate space in my house and if I take it out and put it on the dining room table... well... we won't eat there again for a week (or more! LOL)

I'd also love a place with some comfy chairs where people could sit around knitting and crocheting and chatting... I don't know how to do either, but I'd love to learn and love to have a place to go to sit and chat with others while learning or working on projects!

I'd REALLY love if you had fabric. Right now, I love going to visit my mom in MN because they have a mill end store where I can get GREAT stuff for ridiculously cheap amounts... but that's a hike! JoAnn's in Ledgewood is the only option around here anymore, no?

CrunchyMom June 8, 2008 10:33 am | Link

I sew when I HAVE to. Dont have much time to do it anymore. I have to also suggest that you piggyback it with maybe supplies also.Its tough enough these days to run a business selling one service. Trying to focus on "something for everyone" attitude works for my store.

Can I suggest that you contact the Hackettstown BID. They can steer you in the right direction ie. real estate available, how to's. David Rucki is the executive director.

hackettstownbid.com

Good luck.

Christine June 8, 2008 10:34 am | Link

Wow. What a cute idea, Susie! You never hear about something like that. Honestly, I think sewing is a lost art now. When I was a kid, you had to learn it. After seeing your website, I say go for it. You go Susie Sew and Sew! Best of luck with this. I think it sounds very unique. Did you research on the net to see if other people have opened anything similar, check their sites and if they're out of state and aren't a competitor, I'm sure they'd be happy to talk to you.

INeedMoreCowBell June 8, 2008 10:43 am | Link

That is a great idea Susie Q. I used to so but now I paint. I think Christine had a great idea of suppling your store with peoples needs. Sort of like stop and Shop for sewing goods.

I do wish you the best for a sucessful adventure.

Wow-Thanks everyone for so much encouragement! I'll have to check more into fabrics and suppliers...

Dolly-- Where in Union do you go for fabrics? I have a hard time finding true QUALITY fabrics around here. Over 80% of my fabrics I use I buy online, and then some I get in NYC, which is fun, but a pain... Some of the wholesalers are too rude and snobby so I don't like to deal with them.

CrunchyMom--Are you talking about the SR Harris Fabric Outlet in Brooklyn Park, MN?? I wish they had an on-line store! They are so cheap, I have bought stuff from them sight-unseen over the phone. One time I bought 100 yards of 100% silk shantung that was more expensive to ship than it was for the fabric!

SusieQ June 8, 2008 11:36 pm | Link

Hey..... I have an idea!

Anyone want to get together as a group to shop the fabric and trimmings stores in the Garment District of NYC? You would need to be able to go on a weekday, as most wholesale-focused shops are only open Monday-Friday.


We could start early (be there by 9 am), break for lunch and put our treasures in the car (anyone have a van?), then go back out again after 1:00 once most of the garmentos are gone. We could put our new things in the car again after 5:00, then go out for dinner and head back home after rush hour is done! I don't mind driving in NYC, but I only have a compact SUV, which is big enough if there are only 4-5 of us.

If you are seriously interested, let me know what days of the week work best for you and I'll plan a trip.

SusieQ June 9, 2008 12:16 am | Link

Hey, Susie...you could also contact the schools, since you'd be in walking distance of little field trips. Maybe even develop an after school 'program'. (for kids that don't want to go to daycare, this would be useful and fun!) I love your enthusiam. Heck, there might even be older people from such places as Heath Village that probably would love to come in and do something creative during the day. It sounds like such a nice idea for town.

INeedMoreCowBell June 9, 2008 1:00 am | Link

yes i wouldn't mind working with the creator. I am an avid sewer, embroiderer and quilter-intermediate part time only

This sounds like fun and I would be in for it. I use to sew years ago and have not done any since mostly college. Need to have the sewing machine tuned up and take it out again. Have a child that wants to learn all this stuff as well.

So classes would be great. Although you should be "in town", I think you would do very well on one of the side streets with some good advertizing. I agree that you should expand the focus - I like the idea of including other crafts - scrapbooking, beading, etc to be able to create classes and activities for every day.

Look into the business models for Studio U, Cooks and Crafts and other similar places to see what you might need to take on.

Don't limit the idea at the moment, just gather the data. Then you might want to consider including some partners that are interested and can provide additional capital. I would be interested and speaking with you on this - this idea is really something I love, but do not have the guts to do it alone. ;-)

Suzy Q -- I am most definitely interested in such a trip. I don't have a van but would also be willing to drive and can hit 4 people.

Any weekday other than Tuesday is good for me.

Dolly June 9, 2008 8:09 am | Link

Dolly, will you be hitting these 4 people on Route 80, cuz I'd like to stay off the road that day? ;)


Susie...post what day you're planning on going!

INeedMoreCowBell June 9, 2008 8:34 am | Link

lol - I could probably hit way more than 4 people! But can only FIT 4!

Dolly June 9, 2008 9:16 am | Link

Dolly, where in Union do you buy your fabric?

Jack June 9, 2008 10:14 am | Link

Regarding a great cross-stitch shop....check out Banbury Cross in Andover, located on Rt. 206 behind the Getty Station. Call (973)786-7511‎ for hours.

Not only do they have everything cross-stitch, but they do an amazing job of cleaning and framing your work. My family has used them many times over the years.

Hi Jack, actually it's not in Union at all but I have some kind of faulty wiring that makes me refer to North Plainfield as Union. The place is Fabricland.

Dolly June 9, 2008 4:27 pm | Link

SusieQ--I love the idea. I do like to sew--more like 'try' to sew. I would love to take a 'beginners' course to learn everything that a sewing machine can do, different settings, etc. My only knowledge now is what i learned in 9th grade home-ec...i'm pretty good at sewing a straight line! I would love to learn more! Keep us updated!

Kelly June 9, 2008 5:11 pm | Link

susy its a good idea but with the rent being so high in town and throw in your gas and electric i think it wuld be a struggle just to break even but good luck hope it works for you

Right now I am planning a graduation party for the end of June, and I have too many kids in my house until then to be going any time in June.... So maybe I will plan the NYC trip for sometime in the 2nd week of July since I will have 2 kids off to camp that week... I'll have to think about it some more in the next few days and let you all know. It will be so much fun!

Woodye--Yes, I know--RENT!!! Its so much!! Yiikes!

INMCB--thought about you today!! There is a t-shirt in the Men's department at Kohl's that has something about needing more Cow Bell! I was crackin' up!!! LOL!!

SusieQ June 9, 2008 10:31 pm | Link

SusieQ - I do believe that *is* the name of the store -- though I go to a sister location in Fargo now (closer to mom) -- though there was even one in Moorhead for awhile!

CrunchyMom June 9, 2008 10:36 pm | Link

SusieQ, I'm just SO going to have to get it!
(hopefully, it has Will Ferrell with his gut hanging out from the sketch it comes from)

;)

INeedMoreCowBell June 9, 2008 10:37 pm | Link

Another idea for you...write up a proposal for an after-school program and send it to the principals of schools you'd want to work with. Something like, you would come in and do a 1/2 hour or 1 hour program right after school one day for say, 4 weeks for kids grades ?? through ??. Say what you would charge per week or for the entire program, and that would include materials. If you did it in the winter, they could work on a project they could give as a holiday gift - e.g. knit/crochet a scarf, or sew a pillow. You could work with the school's PTO/PTA to get volunteers to assist, and this way the kids are being supervised by trusted individuals (someone from the school must be present). In my experience, many parents appreciate an afterschool activity at a reasonable cost for their child to have fun and learn a new skill.

Thanks so much for all the input and ideas!

I've always wanted to teach sewing to kids, but I wonder if it would be too much to expect them to have their own sewing machine. What do you think?

It would cost a lot for me to purchase enough machines for a class for kids, not to mention lugging them all around!

In adult sewing classes, all the adults have their own machines.

SusieQ June 10, 2008 9:17 pm | Link

There are machines geared to children for beginning sewing. They can cost about $50 on average. It might be an idea to request that the children bring their own machines if the cost is not prohibited - could be added into the cost of the sewing class.

Stiches are limited on the machines as they are really designed for beginners, but for the younger ages, this is an idea and would allow parents to have the children try without a huge investment - just in case they do not like it.

I have sent you an email -

Coralie June 11, 2008 7:27 am | Link

You might start looking at getting used machines in good condition (e.g. Freecycle or Ebay), or teaching hand-sewing the first time around.

Coralie,

Thanks--got your e-mail! I'm looking forward to getting together!

I have purchased a couple "beginner" machines that were under $200 for my girls; one was about $70 (Hello Kitty) and one was around $120 (Brother machine from Walmart), and they are NOT good! They cause more frustration for the kids because the mechanisms are just too cheap, and the kids lose confidence and interest real fast because the threads get caught up. Also, the cheap machines won't sew through denim at all, which is one thing kids like to do -- cut up an old pair of jeans to experiment with. If they would just sew a straight stitch well, I would recommend them, but they really don't. Any good sewing machine retailer will tell you that you need to spend at least $200 to get a machine that will straight stitch well through most fabrics or several layers (as in quilting).

When I have time, I'm going to investigate some used machines at Pocono.

Thanks again for all the tips!

SusieQ June 13, 2008 12:57 pm | Link

At least I now know NOT to try the cute kids machine route. Will have to let her use my Viking... yikes.

Thanks for the feedback on the beginner machines!

Coralie June 13, 2008 1:25 pm | Link

Hi SusieQ! I've been looking for a place to learn how to sew! My Mom gave a machine to my daughter last year and we don't know how to use or how to make anything!

If you do this PLEASE let me know! How about out of your home until you open a shop or you can come to mine?

Bones June 13, 2008 3:35 pm | Link

Bones,

Yes, I can help you learn to use your machine. How old is your daughter? What machine is it? Is it a new machine, or is it used? If it is a used machine, I highly recommend getting it a "tune up" before using it. You don't want to start out with tension issues or any internal corrosion that can happen when a machine sits for too long.

I don't have people come to my house, but I can come to yours. Send me a private message if you are interested!

SusieQ June 13, 2008 11:38 pm | Link

I would love to a all that and especially a store with a good selection of fabrics.

Would LOVE a place like this! I'd be your first customer in the knitting/crocheting/hand embroidery lounge! It would be great to have a smaller store (as opposed to trekking to Walmart) to get fabrics or yarn and such for my crocheting projects.
For classes, I'd love to attend a quilting class. I used to quilt smaller items like pillows, but it would be great to get back into it and have an experienced guide to help!

Amy July 11, 2008 5:56 pm | Link

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this idea! I also concur with adding other things i.e., scrapbooking, beading, art, pottery, etc. and supplies.

Susie - you've got mail.

happy2bhere July 11, 2008 8:01 pm | Link

I didnt even think about scrapbooking, beading, etc. You could get a lot of business with those types of universal crafts. Who knows, maybe even kid's parties?
There was a store where I used to live that was part craft supply store, part art/craft classes, and part kids parties (basically just a children's art class for one craft done in an hour to 2 hours). It did exceptionally well.

Amy July 11, 2008 8:34 pm | Link

Forgot the kids parties Amy, I think you would find a lot of us adults that would like to take some classes along those lines, LOL. Would be a good thing I think to help bring people in the store. I think it would be good to be able to have the classes without you having to stock all the supplies as that could get very pricey as a store owner. Not sure how you would manage that but it would be something to think about.

Bessie July 11, 2008 9:09 pm | Link

My computer crashed and I've been off-line for awhile...

Thanks so much everyone for your feedback!! Its been very inspiring!! I'm still looking into the NYC Garment District Tour plan, so I'll keep you all posted on that. I'm also looking into rental space in town, so I will keep you all posted.

Keep that feedback coming! After all, its all about YOU. If you aren't interested, I won't have a business. I like the idea of having classes for kids, but I want to cater to adults, too. What are some things you would like to learn to do? Would you pay to learn to make home decor items such as curtains or sofa pillows? What about making a custom slipcover? Would you really make clothing for yourself, or would you rather make things for your kids/grandkids?

How much would the increase in gas prices (and everything else!) affect your probability of paying for such a service as we have discussed?

Thanks again, everybody!!

SusieQ July 14, 2008 2:28 am | Link

Personally, I wouldn't be interested in sewing my own clothes, but that's just me. I can't sew at all. I would be interested in the cutains, the pillows, the house decorating. Would also like the "etsy" kind of things. I think it would have to be affordable yet enough to keep your business going. My thought is with the price of gas, it might be helpful because we're not going to do much driving distances on a whim and it will help that it's local.

Bessie July 14, 2008 8:53 am | Link

Let me give you an example, someone I scrapped with that lives in Hackettstown went to a knitting class for 6 weeks (once a week) in Morristown. I want to say the class cost her $100., plus she had to drive to Morristown. I think the class was a bit pricey, though I have nothing to compare it to, and to have to pay for gas to Morristown would have made it unaffordable for me. A bit cheaper on the class and no driving to speak of, WINNER!

Bessie July 14, 2008 8:57 am | Link

I would use your services as I can not sew and wish I could. I would love to be able to make curtains and pillows. And do simple things like new zippers hems etc..the basics. I am looking forward to your new business!! :)

I would love to learn how to knit and sew. I want a hobby where I can sit and relax. My husband plays softball in Hackettstown, and I don't like activity like that, this sounds more like me.

hello July 15, 2008 6:41 pm | Link

Hello--

My husband plays softball in Hackettstown, too! What team does he play on? My hubby plays for WC Fields on the "C" league.

Bones--

Had a great time with the sewing lessons at your house this week! How did your hubby like the pj pants?

I'm looking into a possible Main St. location for a shoppe. If anyone knows of a space available without a huge $$$ layout, please let me know. I was hoping to be able to invade my husbands office space at 227 Main, but he's not very open to the idea..... he likes his dirt! LOL!!!

(He's a landscaper!)

I was also looking at some spaces in Hastings Square. There are a lot of spaces open, but they are a little pricey. If anyone has any experience with leasing there, please advise. I'm wondering if there is a problem since there are so many spaces available.

Thanks again to everyone! Keep the ideas coming!! I really, really appreciate it.

SusieQ July 18, 2008 10:10 am | Link

very clever idea - I wish you all the best. I bought a $200 sewing machine just to fix a couple of items and now the machine just sits in a corner. If your store was available I could have just run in and fixed my items without a large investment. I used to make my kids clothes 'way' back when. You know little girl sundresses and stuff. Now I have grandchildren and might get back into it if I had some place to take lessons or a refresher on how to cut patterns etc. Good Luck on getting this off the ground. I certainly would be interested in taking my grandaughters someplace to learn to sew, there mom asks me to sew on a simple button. I would like them to learn how to do things like this.

SusieQ, my husband plays on that team too. Do you go to the games? If so maybe you know him. His name is Joe.

Hello--

Joe? Joe the Funeral Director?? YES!!! He's such a great player!!!! Oh my goodness! You have to come to the games! Its so much fun to watch them! They act like a bunch of teenage boys--some of the "boys" are in their 60's!!!! Its too funny!!
I always laugh at Joe because he just doesn't have the creepy look of a funeral home guy so I tell him I just don't believe it! LOL!! Your little boy is adorable! He's going to be just like daddy playing ball!

Kath--
If you would like, I do private in-home lessons. Send me a private message by clicking on the envelope next to my name here. I can give you some great pointers and shortcuts for patterns, too. I just did a private lesson for "Bones," so you can speak to her about lessons. We had a great time!

SusieQ July 19, 2008 11:19 pm | Link

If anyone is interested in purchasing a used sewing machine, there is one at our school's rummage sale tomorrow from 8 am to 3 pm. Here's a link to the thread about the sale:

http://www.hackettstownlife.com/forum/39125

I can't remember the exact price we put on it, I think $40? Its a basic machine, but a good beginner machine. I'll bring some thread and needles tomorrow so you can test it out.

SusieQ July 19, 2008 11:23 pm | Link

The sewing machine went immediately at the sale!

I've checked into some commercial space for rent, but I'm not sure of that sort of expense right now. I want to make sure that people will use the service enough to pay for the expenses and make enough profit for me to grow a business.

For now, I think I will branch out into doing in-home sewing lessons. If you are interested, please send me a private message by clicking on the little envelope next to my screen name.

Once school starts, I may do project classes at the schools. What sort of ideas would your kids be interested in? My 11 year-old came up with this list:

Locker organizers and book covers
Pillows
"Furry" blankets
Tote bags
Fleece hat, scarf, mittens

For the younger ones, how about a "Tooth Fairy" pillow or doll clothes? You would be amazed at what 5 year-olds can do! They have no fear of the machine, and they really learn fast.

SusieQ July 23, 2008 12:17 pm | Link

As for location....I think your idea (a great one, by the way) would not necessarily be a "walk-in" business, like a coffee shop for example - your clientele would come to you on purpose. SO, rather than spend $$ on a highly visible location, spend it on advertising, and get to the people who really would want to use your services. I think the idea of getting the schools involved is a good one too. In LV we have an after school program called CARE, that offers a wide variety of activities for kids from sports to skills. (I dont even know if HS or MS has a home ec room with sewing machines anymore, but maybe that would be a place to start, and get your feet wet)Also, there used to be a Small Woman Owned Business Organization in the area that might be a good source of assistance in getting started and making contacts.

LVmomofboys July 24, 2008 3:20 pm | Link

I personally believe the parking issue with a business on Main St. COULD be detrimental to success. Just my opinion.

I would be interested in classes to teach children since I don't have a stitch (lol) of interest or knowledge to teach mine.
Cost should probably be researched based on something else craft-related offered for adults and children. Obviously there isn't anything offered like you are proposing, so it wouldn't be apples to apples. If you compare to like Studio U in Chester, you may not be real accurate do to the fact that Chester area is pricey on everything. You basically can use that as a reference, though, and then take into consideration your own costs, overhead and time involved and jugde from there. It may have to be trial and error for awhile.
Well, hope this has been helpful and hopefully you can make this work and post something if it happens. You have a ton of interest goin on here; that's huge. Good Luck.

Ok SusieQ, perfect scenario for being able to use your business. I just bought 8 panels of curtains on sale for $10.00 each. I think they're going to be too long for my windows. Now I have the problem of paying to have them hemmed (probably more than I paid for the curtains), impose on my sister, or take them back. Your business venture would be perfect, you could teach me to sew a straight line on the maching, and then I could sew my own at a fraction of the cost! When are you going to start that business up, LOL?

Bessie August 20, 2008 7:25 am | Link

This is a great idea, I would love to go someplace to sew. I think this idea would take off!!

Sheltiework August 20, 2008 5:43 pm | Link

I would definetly be interested in a sewing class! I'm planning on getting myself a new machine that does everything but plug itself in,,currently i have a vintage 1960's machine that would work,, tho it really needs a good cleaning and I've been lazy about bringing it up to The Sewing Machine store for an estimate because it's rather HEAVY to lift!! Even have the origional directions booklet!

Bessie, here's what you do with those curtains:

Go to Wal-Mart or Joann's. In the sewing department they sell this fusible bonding web called "Stitch Witchery" for $2-$3.00. Its made by Prym Sewing or Dritz. It is on the sewing notions wall hanging on a hook (see picture). There is 20 yards in a package, so you should measure the width of the curtains before you go to the store. You should get the Stitch Witchery that is 5/8" wide. Get "light" or "ultra-light" so that the fabric will still flow.

Hang the curtains on the rod BACKWARDS, so the front of the curtain is facing the window. Mark your hemline on the curtains. Set up your ironing board in front of the curtains.

Lay the hem of the first curtain on the ironing board (leave the curtains hanging on the rod). The back side of the fabric should be facing up. Use a straight edge (such as a yardstick, broom handle, or even another curtain rod) to mark your hemline 1" BELOW where you want the bottom of the finished hem to fall. Use a pencil or ball point pen, not a marker or it will bleed through on to your ironing board cover. Cut along that line.

Now fold up the bottom of the hem 1" and iron it flat all the way across the entire bottom of the curtain. Then, cut a piece of the Stitch Witchery that is the length of the curtain and fit it under the folded up hemline so that is completely covered by the folded fabric edge.

Cover the portion that you will iron with a damp press cloth (I use an old pillow case) and iron the hem for about 10 - 15 seconds depending on how thick your curtains are. You can always press it again, but if you press too long, it will just melt into the fabric and you will need a new piece of the Stitch Witchery and your fabric will feel stiff. If you get some of the Stitch Witchery on your iron, it will come off with a fabric softener sheet. Keep going for all the curtains, then rotate the rod and put the curtains up the right way. Ta da! Easy-peasy!

If you don't want to do this, send me a private message and I will have you over to show you how to do it sometime at the end of September after my school uniforms "rush" is over.

SusieQ August 21, 2008 6:26 pm | Link

I am going to be re-vamping my in-home sewing area to be able to accommodate small sewing classes of up to 4 people. I'm hoping to be done with it by the end of October. I'll keep you all aprised!

Any special project requests for the first few sewing classes?

I'm very inspired by everyone's input and interest! Its wonderful!



Ginger,
Please go to Pocono Sew and Vac (www.poconosewandvac.com) for your new sewing machine. They are located in Stroudsburg, PA, about 40 minutes west on I-80. Ask for Paul and tell him that redhead Susan sent you over there to him so that you can get the exact machine you need. All the people that work there are great (especially Bea and Ginger), but Paul has the management power to ***discount***. :)

SusieQ August 21, 2008 7:10 pm | Link

I second going to Pocono Sew and Vac. They are terrific and you will not find a better price or better service.

Dolly August 21, 2008 8:53 pm | Link

Great idea! My mom did sewing classes for kids for a long time, she was very happy doing it, but profits were so-so. Perhaps tie a tailoring business into it, quilting supplies, yarn/crochet supplies, . . . don't put all of your eggs all in one basket. A GREAT opportunity for Hackettstown. One of my mom's students went on NYU fashion design and was well beyond prepared. Maybe you can also appeal to teens interested in the fashion industry? Centenary college? Tie classes in with the the college? Just brainstorming for ya, I hope it triggers more ideas and broadens your horizons! ;-)

Service - $10? Is that fair? Just to rent a sewing machine by the hour. However, classes should include all of your supplies, time and gas for getting supplies and, of course, your talents and guidance.

location for such a store? What times/days would be the best to be open for you? Main St., woman! I work 9-5, so after 5 for me. Mom's with kids in school during the day would be interested too. Kids stuff alone is a great market.

What kinds of classes would you like to see offered? What sort of items would you like to make? What sort of fabrics and supplies would you like to see offered for sale? I would like to make my own throw pillows with dangly tassles, halloween costumes, cool Christmas tree skirts, mackenzie childs type stockings. Christmas table runners. I'm more into creating home decor stuff for the holidays, I guess. Stuff to do over the winter. :-) I'd love to make a cool and ornate stocking for 50-75. Only if it were super cool, lots of fring, tassles, etc . . . really ornate.

Can we have lattes at these classes? lol with baileys??

SusieQ!! Thanks for the lead on Pocono Sew and Vac!I will definetly give them a try,,p.s.i'm a redhead,too(smile!)

Reggie funny you mention the drinks because there is a book called "Sip and Sew" it's got drink recipies and sewing projects in it!

Dolly August 22, 2008 7:05 am | Link

If you "Sip and Sew" keep your sipper on a different table. The cat knocked over a cup of tea once... all over ivory silk velvet. NOT cool!

I now keep my cup on a separate table unless I have a leak-proof cup or bottle with a screw-on cap.

Yes, the cat is still alive.

SusieQ August 25, 2008 5:44 pm | Link