To add to the comments about sewing lace on by machine. In an issue of Anna ages ago it showed the steps of pulling a thread to get straight lines (when apporpriate), tacking the lace in place a little way in from the edge, using a straight machine stitch right at the footside edge to hold the lace in place, and finally using a good zig-zag/satin stitch to *just* cover the footside/machine stitiching.
I always had problems with keeping this close zigzag even; if it bunches even a tiny bit it can very quickly make a blob which then gets stuck in the machine. When I got my super Husqvarna one of the things it came with was a couple of feet with a raised space/tunnel on the underside back. This allows the foot to pass over the bulk of the stitches you have just done and the whole thing flows smoothly. I think this type of foot will be available for even the most basic machine; check to see if you have one already with all those odd bits you've never used, or ask at the sewing mchine store. The other thing that makes a tremendous difference is to use a backing of some sort to support the fabric such as a piece of lightweight paper, machine embroidery stabiliser, interfacing or soluble fabric. It is trimmed/torn away after sewing, but stops the fabric puckering. The most important thing however is to practise! Different stitch widths and settings and sewing straight lines, curves, corners, what ever you'll need for the project, on the fabric you are going to use. Alternatively, if you look in the heirloom sewing books (or google search heirloom sewing) you will find more delicate ways to machine-sew lace. Once more, you will need to spend a good bit of time mastering the techniques but they aren't difficult once you have your machine adjusted properly. Any zigzag machine can be used, you don't need anything flash, but do remember to change your needle regularly. Once you have mastered your skills, you can practise them on all those bits of finished lace that are hiding in drawers waiting to be attached to fabric. Jacquie in Lincolnshire - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
