Sewing Blog

New Class Starting in May 2012

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:49:03 +0000

Join our new Patchwork & Quilting For Beginners Class, In just four weeks you can Learn the Fundamentals of Patchwork and Quilting. Starting 1st May this exciting new course is ran once a week on Tuesday for just two hours per sesion.

We aim to give you an understanding of Patchwork & Quilting, learn the importance of an accurate seam allowance. Appreciate the prep by carefully measuring and cutting, basic geometric shapes making them easy to piece together. Precise joining by the most part with a quarter inch foot makes for a patchwork that lies flat without puckers, Why not dabble in free motion, Practice your Applique skills and learn many many more skills in such a short time. Steal hints and tips from an experience Quilter with many years of teaching experience.

"What is really nice to see is that many of the class members start with very little or no experience, yet after a few sessions seem to get the quilting bug and create some beautiful quilts for themselves, family and friends."

For more information and or to book your place call us directly on 0191 25 25 825 or email enquiries@singermachine.co.uk

It has arrived the NEW £109 Pfaff sewing machine - Pfaff Elements 1050s

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:02:11 +0000

After waiting for months, our shipment of this fantastic little sewing machine has arrived.... not that it's small. We know the NEW Pfaff 1050s will be a top seller. It's a full size Pfaff sewing machine with Pfaff quality at a super price.

Our warehouse is overflowing and thats great news....as at this moment we can offer the Pfaff 1050s at a reduced introductory price of £109...... meaning you SAVE £20. Shortly it will be going up to the regular price of £129 (thats a saving of over 15%)

Looking to buy a new sewing machine for Christmas as a gift......we can recommend the Pfaff elements 1050s for beginners to intermediate sewers..... plus its so easy to use, its ideal for children (with parental supervision) It has s a good combination of stitches for home use, with strength for home decor stitching projects, dressmaking or craft stitching.

Plus.....as a bonus for orders placed through this website or by calling...
TELESALES: 0845 4309824

New Sewing Quilting and Knitting Classes Starting September

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 09:36:33 +0000

Join in this September for FUN sewing quilting and knitting classes.

Our workshops, clubs and courses are open to any age from beginners to expert.
New Classes - Starting September 2011

Sewing Techniques:

Tuesdays 10am - 12pm

5 week course - £40.00

Teen Sewing Class:

Wednesdays 4.15pm - 5.15pm

(term time only)

Different projects every month!

Knitting Club:

Thursdays 10am - 12pm

Starting 8th September -£6 per week

Patchwork and Quilting:

Wednesdays 1pm - 3pm & 6pm - 8pm

Fridays 10am - 12pm & 1pm - 3pm

For beginners and expert quilters alike!

For more information or to sign up for any of the classes, please call us on:

0191 2525825 or pop in to:

Singer Sewing Centre, Whitley Road, Whitley Bay , NE26 2SY

Testing the new Pfaff Ambition range of computer sewing machines

Mon, 09 May 2011 14:44:46 +0000

After a full day testing two brand new Pfaff computer sewing machines, we can report back to our sales team with a smile of our faces... what a change it is to have such quality, reliability and full computer control at such a reasonable price. Plus both the new Pfaff Ambition 1.0 and its bigger brother the Pfaff Ambition 1.5 have the IDT (Pfaff's dual feed system), so from the start these machines are going to be winners with quilters, dressmakers and home decor crafters. Both have lettering and built in memory, the Ambition 1.5 having 195 stitches with 4 alphabets..!

A sneak peak at the machines below and you'll see the large sewing area of 20cm, no not a large as the Pfaff expression range but still much larger that many other sewing machines on the market at this price level. So be quick and grab a great deal.. just give us a call.. we're upto speed on the Pfaff ambition line already and more than willing to answer any questions.

Pfaff Ambition 1.0

Pfaff Ambition 1.5

Both machines also include the smooth running rotary top loading bobbin system.

Man rescues his Pfaff sewing machine after monsoon

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 11:01:27 +0000

Hello Everyone. This is such a great story we had to share it with you.

Every image tells a story, but it's rather special to hear it from the photographer himself, Steve. Photo-journalist and Magnum Photographer Steve McCurry shares the amazing story behind his iconic photograph.

Thanks to Charlotte Eder for the link and Phaidon.com

Kristian

A True Sewing Enthusiast

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:24:24 +0000

Some people love to sew, somtimes sewing becomes part of your every day life, yet some people take sewing to an extream, just like our dedicated staff..!

I thought you may like to see how dedicated this girl is about her sewing machine..., with a sewing machine tattoo..!

Later as i looked further into sewing tattoo's i found some other very very enthusiast people showing their love for stitching and in a very difference way. One chap was a band member in a rock group and when his manager asked him to rent some backup singers... he rented a bunch of sewing machines..!
Anyhow here are the sewing tattoos.

After School Sewing Class

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 17:28:05 +0000

AFTER SCHOOL SEWING CLASS.........

OUR AFTER SCHOOL SEWING CLASS IS NEARLY FINISHED ITS LATEST PROJECT AND READY TO START SOMETHING NEW

If you are interested in joining us, our class is held every Wednesday at 4.15pm until 5.15pm

Again, spaces are limited. At present we only have two spaces left in our After School Class.....so dont delay, grab that space before it goes...they dont come along very often.

For more information on projects, charges and availability, please call us on 08454309824

COME ALONG ITS FUN!

New Sewing Class- Starting Wednesday 2nd March 2011

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 17:07:01 +0000

NEW ..... SEWING CLASS!

Come along to one of our NEW sewing classes........

Our class will start by showing you basic sewing machine skills and sewing techniques. You dont have to have a sewing machine to learn....everything is provided. So if you've ever thought... I'd love to make a cushion like that' or 'my jeans need altering but I dont know how to'...WE'LL SHOW YOU HOW!

Classes will be starting on Wednesday 2nd March 2011 10.00am until 12.00pm.

To reserve your space, please call us on 08454309824. Dont forget our classes are very busy so to avoid disappointment and reserve your space...CALL US TODAY.

Heirloom Cushion Class - Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th March 2011

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:56:21 +0000

Why not join one of our workshops and get into heirloom sewing..! There's nothing better than trying to replicate the beautiful stitching techniques used many years ago. No, we'll not be stitching by hand ....we'll be using the very latest computer controlled sewing machines to reproduce real heirloom stitching. We'll be using special fabrics, ribbons, thread and even the unusal wing needle to make one of these lovely cushions. You'll be able to finish this project on the day and take it home with you.

Pfaff Sewing Machines are hosting our fantastic workshops which are being held on......

Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th March from 10.00am until 4.00pm each day

Booking is essential, so to reserve your place and avoid disappointment, call us today on 08454309824. Spaces are limited as our workshops are very popular......dont delay!!

Here are some more examples of the stitching techniques we'll be doing.

January Blues..! To tempt you to start sewing again - 20% OFF ALL THREAD

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 15:27:15 +0000

As a big thank you for using our website and i personally hope you had a great christmas and a happy new year.

As a temp to help you be creative and get you stitching over the next few weeks.. or a change to stock up on your thread stash..

20% OFF SEWING THREAD

Your personal voucher code is: 20OFFTHREADS
Use this code in the shopping cart during checkout for 20% off thread. Ends January 15th.

You can find - 100% cotton quilting threads, many types of embroidery threads with sheen or without plus general sewing machine thread by Gutterman in various size spools... plus 100% Silk, Coats Cotton, Overlocking, Bobbin Fill and more in the sewing accessory section of our website.

What has the adult quilting class been up to over the last few months

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:23:06 +0000

It's all quiet now in the quilting class, as everone takes a well deserved break and catches up on some christmas shopping.... so I thought I'd show you some of the quilts that have been lovingly made in our workshops over the last few months. Luckily, we have a large enough preparation area to work in, as one or two of the larger quilts were massive...! and took a bit of stepping over. While chatting and carrying a cupa...! take care.!

What is really nice to see is that many of the class members start with no experience, yet after a few sessions seen to get the quilting bug and create some beautiful quilts for themselves, family and friends.

New classes start January 5th, so quickly get booked. You will be using the latest quilting machines with expert tuition...with a bit of friendly banter thrown in too.

And some of the quilt art....

AFTER SCHOOL SEWING CLASS

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 21:40:00 +0000

'After School Sewing Class'.......

This class is for girls or boys who are interested in learning how to use a sewing machine or developing further sewing techniques.

Maybe you are already a whizz with the sewing machine at school and just want to learn a bit more......then come along to our class. First class starting on Wednesday 15th September 2010, 4.15pm until 5.15pm.

NEW CLASS...Starting SEPTEMBER 2010

For more information call in to Singer, 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2SY or call 08454309824.

NB. This class is immensley popular and there are only a few places left. To reserve one of the few remaining spaces, please contact us as above ASAP. Dont delay......the class will be full very soon!!

CRAFT CLASS - Make a fantastic Denim Door Organisor

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:18:58 +0000

NEW.......New......NEW......New......NEW......New......

CRAFT CLASS......Would you like to make a Funky Denim Door Organisor........

SORRY THIS CLASS IS NOW FULLY BOOKED

Come along and join one of our craft classes and make a beautiful Denim Door Organisor. Keen sewers and beginners alike will enjoy this fun class. Use of all the latest sewing machines in our fully equip classroom. For more information, please call us on 08454309824 or call into store at 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2SY

Class Dates: Saturday 24th July 2010

10.00am - 12.30pm

SORRY THIS CLASS IS NOW FULLY BOOKED

WATCH OUT FOR FUTURE CRAFT CLASSES HERE.............. MAKE SURE YOU CONTACT US EARLY TO BOOK YOUR PLACE AS CLASSES FILL UP VERY QUICKLY.

Dawn Cameron Dick lecture

Sat, 22 May 2010 07:51:12 +0000

Just to say a big thank you to Dawn who recently called in and gave tips and advice to about 20 of our dedicated quilters who wanted to learn a little more about machine needles, quilting threads and invisible machine applique.

Who is Dawn Cameron-Dick ?
Dawn Cameron-Dick is a self-taught quilter who has been making quilts for over the world for 30 years. She has been a quilting teacher and lecturer for the last 26 years and was voted Runner-up UK Teacher of the Year in 1999.

A very traditional quilter, Dawn uses modern products to produce her "signature" technique, Invisible Machine Applique, which is done on a sewing machine, but produces perfect hand-done-looking applique.

During the lecture Dawn told us,... " I've been fortunate enough to have been invited to teach in the US, UK (where I now call home), Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Holland, Germany, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Ireland and Italy."
she said,... "I am always more than ready to pack up a go anywhere students want to have fun and learn. My aim is to make my classes as enjoyable as I can and still give each and every student individual attention and support."

What did we learn about ?

The main emphasis was on Mettler Threads. Mettler is a Swiss company dedicated to making excellent quality threads. Made with Long Stable Egyptian Cotton that has been mercerised and is ideal for both machine and hand quilting alike.

The thread for you ........................

How about

Quilting Thread 40/3 Cotton.... is a slightly bolder thread for hand and machine quilting which gives superb defination to your stitches. Becase this thread is perfectly balanced there are fewer problems when hand stitching. An 80/90 quilting needle is best to use in your machine with this thread

and

Silk Finish 50/3 Cotton..... perfect for machine quilting or decorative stitching. Silk Finish Multi 50/3 Cottonis available in subtle shades again ideal for machine quilting.

Fine Embroidery 60/2 Cotton.....comes in 152 colours perfect for quilting and hand applique. Ideal for bobbin for use as a bobbin thread

and

Poly Sheen and Poly Sheen Multi - Trilobal Polyester - in 350 colours. This thread has a 50% higher tear resistance -so no more broken threads! A colourfast thread even under extreme stress such as chlorine, bleach, friction and washing and ironong. Best used with a size 90 embroideery needle in your machine.

Or maybe

Metallic - Available in 200 and 400 metre spools. Great for creative and decorative stitching. Use a size 90 embroidery needle on your machine and Fine Embroidety cotton in your bobbin.

Pfaffs new 5d Embroidery Software soon to be available

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 13:09:32 +0000

Get the latest news on the new 5D embroidery system as soon as it becomes available, (NOW IN STOCK) building on the success of 4D embroidery software, 5D brings you a new dimension of exciting features including intelligent tool tips, multicolor gradient fills, realistic metallic and multi-color thread views, and the ability to create lettering and watch it “snap” around your selected design.

As a sneek preview, we can tell you a little, but we''ll have to wait a little longer to get our hands on the newest Pfaff 5d Embroidery System.

What operating system do I need?
In order to run 5D Embroidery Software, you need Windows® 7, Vista, or XP.

If I have 4D system, do I have to learn everything new for 5D system?
Not at all! The 5D system adds many new and exciting features. However 4D system users will find themselves very comfortable with navigating through the program. What you know today will make your 5D system experience even easier and its easy to to get upto date using the 4D to 5D Upgrade which includes DVD, all manuals with holder, mouse mat, dongle name tag and bonus designs on CD.

What file formats does it read?
Bernina (.art), Brother/Babylock/Bernina PEC (.pec), Brother/Babylock/Bernina PES (.pes), Compucon/Singer PSW (.xxx), Husqvarna (.hus), Husqvarna Viking (.dhv, .shv), Husqvarna Viking/Pfaff (.vip), Husqvarna Viking/Pfaff (.vp3), Janome (.jef and .sew), Melco Expanded (.exp), Pfaff (.pcs), Tajima (.dst) or Toyota (.10O).

What file formats does it write?
Brother/Babylock/Bernina PEC (.pec), Brother/Babylock/Bernina PES (.pes), Compucon/Singer PSW (.xxx), Husqvarna (.hus), Husqvarna Viking/Pfaff (.vip), Husqvarna Viking/Pfaff (.vp3), Janome (.jef and .sew), Melco Expanded (.exp), Pfaff (.pcs), Tajima (.dst) or Toyota (.10O).

Can I create my own embroidery design from a vector image?
You may use many vector images. You may also use regular bitmap art as well.

How many fonts are included?
5D includes 119 pre-digitized fonts. With 5D Quick Font, you can change most True Type and Open Type fonts from your computer to stitches. So your font choices are almost limitless!

Can I edit my designs in real time?
With 5D Embroidery Extra (or 5D Suite), you can change your design color, edit stitches, adjust placement, add lettering, and more on your project background. In 5D Design Creator (available in 5D™ Suite only), see your design transform in front of your eyes. Adjust the object outline and watch the stitches reform.

Can I make my own fonts?
You may create your own fonts with the Quick Font Wizard (included in 5D Embroidery, 5D Embroidery Extra, 5D Suite) that lets you use True Type and Open Type fonts from your computer. The 5D Font Digitizing (available only in 5D Suite) lets you start from scratch and digitize your own specialty font.

Can I make cross stitch designs?
Yes you can! The 5D Cross Stitcher is included in the 5D Suite or is available as a stand alone module for those who have 5D Embroidery or 5D Embroidery Extra.

Craft Class - 'Make your own applique cushion'

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:34:55 +0000

CRAFT CLASS......Make this beautiful applique cushion.

Come along and join one of our craft classes and make this beautiful cushion. Keen sewers and beginners alike will enjoy this fun class. Full use of all the latest sewing machines in our fully equip classroom. For more information, please call us on 08454309824 or call into store at 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2SY

APRIL, MAY, JUNE and JULY Quilt Art classes, theres a lot more to quilting than you think!

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 20:26:16 +0000

Are you interested in QUILT ART................?

Tyne and Wear, Nothumberland, Tyneside.. calling all quilters...! This is the course for you. Let your imagination run riot ....... there's no boundaries. Make elegant embellished wall hangings, cards, small quilts, cushions ........designed by you.

Use all the latest brand new quilting machines in our purpose built classroom with lots of natural light. No need to bring your own machine!!

Quilt Art class dates and times are as follows:

Quilt Art Workshops

Saturday 17th April 10.00am-1.00pm & 1.30pm-4.00pm

Saturday 15th May 10.00am-1.00pm & 1.30pm-4.00pm

Saturday 19th June 10.00am-1.00pm & 1.30pm-4.00pm

Saturday 17th July 10.00am-1.00pm & 1.30pm-4.00pm

For more information call 08454309824, email or call in store to 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2SY

SATURDAY 20th FEBRUARY 2010 - Beginners JEWELLERY making course

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 03:41:00 +0000

Dont miss out on booking your place on our NEW Beginners JEWELLERY making course.

If you've always wanted to create and design your own earrings, bracelets, necklaces etc but just didnt know where to start..........then this is the course for you!

All you will need to bring along are one pair of 3 in pliers, a pair of chain nose pliers and a bead mat. All of these items are available in store or if you already have them.....bring them along. Dont worry if you don't have the tools or even know what they are......still come along and join in and then you'll find out what its all about!

Beads and project kits will be available to purchase on the day.

Our brand new class starts on Saturday 20th February 2010 10.00am - 12.00pm

To avoid disappointment, book your place TODAY, as classes fill up quickly

For more information please call in to Singer Sewing Centre, 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear, NE26 2SY or telephone us on 08454309824

DONT FORGET..........BOOK your place NOW!!

SATURDAY 13th FEBRUARY 2010 - A FUN Sewing Class for Teenagers and Kids.... make a bag from an old pair of JEANS!!

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 16:26:48 +0000

Teenagers want to have fun while learning.. and thats just what we intend to do with this teenage sewing class. This class is NOT about how to insert a zip or shape a shoulder....... we're going to have fun with a pair of your old denim jeans and make a cool hand bag teenagers will love. Best of all you'll actually use and enjoy this useful sewing project and will love to show it off to your friends.

If you are interested in finding out more about the above teenage classes, check out below.......

Saturday 13th Feb 2010 - 10.00am - 12.30pm

Class information:
Whats needed... "an old pair of jeans"
Cost £7.50 per session and includes lining fabric, accessories and trims needed.

Booking:
Booking is essential as classes will fill up very quickly from past experience. Dont forget, just call us on 0191 2525825 or call in to Singer Machines Ltd, 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear for more information and to reserve a place.

It's cool with a "K"

FRIDAY 15th & 19th JANUARY 2010 - Official Pfaff UK demonstrator coming to our store - book early

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:20:34 +0000

Pfaff UK would like to invite you to join in one of their workshops on Friday 15th January 2010 and Friday 29th January 2010.

Friday 15th January will be a workshop using Pfaff Feet. You are welcome to come and try as many of the Pfaff feet as you would like. Make up a project, try a foot out that you always wondered what it would do. Our demonstrator from Pfaff UK will be on hand to help and advise at all times.
Friday 29th January will be workshops using the new Pfaff Quilt Design Software and Texture Hoop.

If you are interested in finding out more about the above, our sessions are as follows .......

Friday 15th Jan 2010 - 10.00am - 12.30pm 1.00pm - 3.30pm
Friday 29th Jan 2010 - 10.00am - 12.30pm 1.00pm - 3.30pm

Booking is essential as classes will fill up very quickly from past experience. Dont forget, just call us on 08454309824 or call in to Singer Machines Ltd, 217-219 Whitley Road, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear to reserve your place now.