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beequiltydesigns · 2 years
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Website : https://www.beequiltydesigns.com/
Address : Red Oak, Iowa
Phone : +1 712-370-0370
Bee Quilty is an Iowa based online small business that started the summer of 2020. Where it's all about quilting - picking beautiful fabrics, quilting tools, patterns and accessories with a goal of providing you with the best quilting supplies at fair prices.
Business mail : [email protected]
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Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/beequilty
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/beequiltydesigns/
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embroidery-pro · 2 months
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Your Comprehensive Guide to Successful Sewing
Guide to Successful Sewing
Whether you're a beginner just starting your sewing journey or an experienced seamstress looking to refine your skills, the Guidelines offer a wealth of knowledge to help you succeed in your sewing projects. This comprehensive collection of educational articles covers all aspects of sewing, from basic techniques to advanced methods. Exploring the Guidelines The Guidelines are organized into various categories, each focusing on different aspects of sewing. Let's take a closer look at what you can find:     1 - Sewing Tools   Basic Tools   Sewing Tools   More Sewing Tools   Mats for Rotary Cutters   Rotary Mat Q&A   Scissors and Shears   Rotary Cutters   Measuring Tools   Marking Tools   Tube Turners Part 1   Tube Turners Part 2 2 - Equipment   Setting Up a Sewing Room   Sewing Machine Basics   Buying a Sewing Machine   Pressing Equipment   Ironing Boards   Sergers   Presses & Home Pressing Systems   Serger Stitches   Computerized Sewing Machines 3 - Understanding Patterns   Pattern Markings Part 1   Pattern Markings Part 2 4 - Fabric   The Right Fabric   Preparing to Sew - Fabric and Pattern Preparation   Cotton   Identifying Fibers & Fabrics   Denim - More Than Just Jeans   Napped Fabrics   Unconventional Fabric Sources   Straightening Fabric Grain   Sewing with Knits   Working with Napped Fabrics   Wool   Slick Tricks: Laminated Fabrics and Vinyls   Sewing with Handwovens   Identifying Plaids   Sewing with Minkee-like Fabrics 5 -Linings & Interfacings   Interfacing 101 6 - Notions   Button, Button   Pins   Invisible Thread   Elastic - the Notion that Gives   Selecting Snaps   Bindings & Tapes   Using Bias Tape   Rick Rack 7 - Home Dec   Bed Coverings   Drapery Types   Table Treatments: Tablecloths   Table Treatments: Placemats, Napkins and Runners   Decorating with Quilts 8 - Home Dec How To   Pillows   Fabric Napkins   Covering a Lampshade with Fabric   Making Rod Pocket Curtains   Tab Top Curtains   Making a Shower Curtain   Covering a Bench Top   Tassels 9 - Quilting   Quilting Tools   Quilting Terms   Notions for Quilters   Pre-Cut Quilting Fabrics   Quilting Rulers   Quilting Designs   Making Bias and Bias Binding   Binding a Quilt   Prairie Points   Yo-Yos   Seminole Piecing
10 -  Fashion/Apparel
  Body Types   Clothing Care and Repair 11 - General How-To   Pressing Pants   Simple Seaming Techniques   Seam Finishes Part 1   Fold-Down Casings   Simple Hems   Staystitching   Easing, Gathering & Shirring   Working with Fold-over Elastic   Applied Casings   Twin-Needle Sewing   Seam Finishes Part 2   Ruffles   Working with Stripes   Piping   Princess Seams   Flat Fell Seams   Bound and Hong Kong Seam Finishes   Beading Part 1   Beading Part 2 12 - Garment How-To   Attaching Buttons   Easy Waistband Casings   Centered Zipper   Button Loops   Covered Buttons   Understitching   Dart Basics   Topstitching   Shirt Collar Pointers   Read the full article
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platinumsonsews · 6 months
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Crafting a Perfect Jelly Roll Quilt Fabric: The Complete Manual
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The jelly roll quilt fabric made up of jelly roll material has gained enormous popularity among quilters due to its convenience, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re an experienced quilter or beginner in the textile industry, gaining knowledge about the crafting process behind a perfect jelly roll fabric is a necessity to enhance your quilting projects. Through this manual, we’ll give you complete information about the same.
The Process of Crafting a Jelly Roll Fabric
Following is a step-by-step process that all quilters must follow to craft a perfect jelly roll fabric:
Step 1: Required Materials - First and foremost, quilters should accommodate all the necessary items required for crafting a perfect jelly fabric roll, like jelly roll fabric bundles with strips given at equal proportions, rotary cutters and cutting mats for precise and accurate cutting of fabric strips, quilting rulers for measuring and cutting the fabric roll, the use of foot sewing machines for the quilting process, high-quality cotton threads, irons for pressing fabric strips, fabric clips to hold the fabric pieces together during the sewing process, and scissors for trimming unnecessary threads and excessive fabrics.
Step  2: Proper Planning - The next step for the quilters is to do careful planning and thoughtful preparation to make a successful jelly roll fabric. They should first check the jelly fabric bundle for any flaws in shape or size. If there is any issue, they must be able to remove it in the initial stages of the fabric making process. Also, they should make proper arrangements for the jelly roll strips in a suitable order, considering factors such as color distribution and pattern placement.
Step 3: Start Quilting - Following the conclusion of the first two steps, the quilters can now begin their quilting process. To select the right quilting method, quilters have the option of straight-line quilting, free-motion quilting, or a combination of both. They can protect the fabric layers with quilting pins or clips to avoid shifting during the quilting process. Preferably, they should stitch the fabric along the straightener lines, beginning with the center of the quilt and working outwards, mainly around corners, to maintain the stitches evenly.
Step 4: Finishing Touches - Once the quilting process is done, the quilters can now finally give the final touch to their stitched jelly roll quilt fabrics, including the adoption of various methods for binding a quilt, such as traditional double-fold binding or machine binding. After the binding process is over, they can give their quilt a final press with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure the binding lays flat. At last, they can admire their perfect handiwork and celebrate the completion of their beautiful jelly roll quilt fabric.
Conclusion To conclude this manual, we hope that you will like the information being presented to make the perfectjelly roll quilt fabric. To buy a jelly roll, you can contact us anytime at Platinum So n Sews for more information. Our quilts are made with fabric assurance at an affordable price. From our significant quilts to jelly roll quilt fabric, we have all the effective designs that can contribute to your home decor by making it remarkable and imparting a joyful spirit to your heart and mind. Finally, we look forward to hearing from you.
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macmoneyo · 2 years
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Tools for cutting and marking
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When you look at your sewing pattern guidelines, you will see that you are often need to transfer some of the pattern marks onto the cloth. If you've been wondering about the finest fabric marking tools for sewing, keep reading! You may realise that you already have some or all of the items needed to begin a quilt project after reading this section (and the next). know more
Tools for cutting
Scissors- If you're reading this guide you undoubtedly have an excellent set of fabric scissors. Although a rotary cutter makes it easier to cut the cloth into smaller pieces, scissors can still be used.
Rotary cutters are a must-have item for any quilter, and you should have at least one. Rotary fabric cutting is quick and simple! Rotary cutters, like scissors, come in a variety of brands, sizes, and blade sizes/types. If at all feasible, try to drive one before purchasing.
Cutting mats - You cannot use a rotary cutter without a cutting mat below your cloth. It is preferable to have one that is "self mending" (cut marks erase) so that it lasts longer. There are several different sizes to choose from. You must select which size is suitable for your creative environment.
Quilt rulers - A quilt ruler, in addition to a rotary cutter and a cutting mat, is the third component to effective cutting. There is a large variety of rulers available - some are considered conventional, while others are developed for a specific purpose. If you're not sure, ask your local fabric or quilt store for a demonstration. To begin, we propose the most common sizes: 6′′ x 24′′ and/or 6′′ x 12′′.
Plastic template - There may be times when you don't want (or need) to buy a specified size ruler for a quilt project. A cheap and simple approach is to use template plastic, which is stronger than paper and can be used like a ruler to cut out particular forms. To know more about these tools click here.
Tools for marking
In quilting, different marking instruments are used at different phases of the process. You can use a variety of marking pens or pencils while cutting forms, drawing stitch lines, and so on. Fabric marking pens or pencils (water soluble, air soluble, etc.), tailor's chalk, mechanical pencils, and soap stone are examples.
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fineformes · 3 years
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All That You Need to Know About Auckland Die Cutting Machines: Beginner's Guide
Whether you are a scrapbook artist or a business owner that gets your design done, Die Cutting Machine NZ has been an integral part of the crafting revolution. Did you notice the change? Die cutting units for scrapbook became small enough to fit on your desk.
While die-cutters aren't the most affordable tools, it is a worthy investment indeed. It is more so if you don't feel like cutting designs bare-handedly. If you're getting started with die-cutting, we will be more than glad to help you out.
Experts at Auckland aren't wrong to define die-cutting as a simple solution to create identical and multiple shapes. It becomes simple to work with a range of materials. In general, there are two types of Die Cutting Machine NZ.
A manual die casting tool needs manual effort to make the die cut through the selected material. Electric die casting machine, on the contrary, does this job for you without human intervention.
Most die crafting machines can work on all types of materials like thin clothes, cardboard, foil, and more. The units are handy for crafting professionals, quilters, and card makers. It is virtually possible for easy cutouts at any time and at per convenience.
It is perfect for designing shapes that are a bit too intricate or detailed. It allows you to impress your friends and clients with bespoke designs without working for long hours.
What are blocks or dies?
For digital and manual die casting tools, one should know the patterns and shapes of dies. A die or block is a specific form used for making copies out of different particles. Manual die casting tools double as cookie cutters. A manual die casting tool has two main types of dies like steel rule and thin metal.
Crafted out of etched metal, thin die to get their centers cut out. It comes with a flat back with raised metal beds. It follows the design and works at the cutting edge.
Hung Shuh steel rules in NZ act more like doughnut or cookie cutter. It manipulates the piece of metal into the desired shape. The cutter gets applied to the wooden base and has steel edges.
It comes wrapped in protective foam. It prevents and protects the cut-out items that get stuck in the die.
What are the options at your disposal?
Steel rule cutting dies are long-lasting and apply a greater cutting force than metal dies. It is one of the reasons why you should go for Hung Shuh steel rules in NZ.
It is ideal for cutting through thick materials like fabric, leather, and mat board.
Thin metal dies are more practical for intricate designs. It is not only cheaper but also easier to store.
Framelits and metallits are other forms of dies. Thinlits are dies that are thin like wafers. It has shapes that get used in separated forms. Framelits are a perfect choice if you want to create a shape to convert it into a 3D form thereafter.
If you are new to die cutting, it's essential for you to opt for a die cutter that suits your requirements. Decide whether it's your passion or hobby.
Are you hunting for a Router Cutting Auckland tool? Contact our manufacturing firm today.
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embroidery-pro · 2 years
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Setting Up an Embroidery room
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Whether you reclaim a room after children have moved out, only have a corner of the family room, or you're custom designing your dream studio, there are some things that all sewers need to make their work go smoothly. Electricity You need power in several areas of your sewing room—for machines, iron, task lighting and computers. Dedicated circuits are ideal, and a surge protector is essential to avoid damaging equipment. Try to avoid stretching extension cords across traffic areas to avoid accidents. Wall mounted power strips allow you to plug in multiple things in a single area. Consult an electrician to add outlets if needed, and explain what will be plugged into them. .Lighting Good lighting is important to sewing success. Not only do you need general room lighting, but task lighting as well. Tabletop lights work well to illuminate individual work areas for sewing machines, sergers and computers. Daylight bulbs allow for true-color viewing. Cutting Table Depending on the room size and orientation, try to find space for a dedicated cutting area. If you're a garment sewer, it should be large enough to allow for a folded 60" fabric width; if you're a quilter, a 45" fabric width is sufficient; length depends on the available space. The height of the cutting surface is key to comfort. It should be 3-4" below your elbow height for using scissors, and 6-8" below for using a rotary cutter. If you use both, pick a midpoint. A perfect tabletop is a hollow core door from the hardware store, or a padded sheet of plywood. Take advantage of the space underneath by placing it on a chest of drawers or a sturdy shelf pair. Flooring Sewers often disagree about the best flooring options. Some prefer hard-surface flooring like wood, tile or vinyl; others prefer soft-surface flooring like carpeting and rugs. The choice depends on your sewing and cleaning style—pins are easier to find on hard-surface flooring, but carpeting provides warmth if you sew in your bare feet! If you plan to do other related crafts in the same room, consider floor cleaning options. Dyes, paints, glues, etc. are harder to remove from carpeting than most hardsurface floorings. StorageThe biggest concern most sewers have is storage —not only for the burgeoning fabric stash, but for the cadre of notions and tools. It's good to be able to find the things you need. There is no one perfect storage system for sewers—some people prefer plastic tubs for everything, others like to see what they have and don't want it behind any cabinet doors or in boxes. It's important to keep your sewing things clean and neat, as well as away from sunlight which can damage and fade fabrics. If you choose covered storage like tubs and bins, be sure to label them clearly so you know what's inside. The "out of sight, out of mind" saying can cause you to duplicate purchases simply because you can't find something. Computer Station If you're downloading embroidery designs directly to your machine, you'll need space to have a computer (laptop or desktop) near your sewing station, and power for the computer. Even if you don't download designs, your machine may utilize online updates, or you can use your computer to find free patterns, online technique resources, etc.  Embroidery Station Perhaps the most used area of your sewing room is the space with your sewing machine(s) and serger. It's important to have a comfortable chair that's the correct height for your body and sewing surface height. Your chair should allow you to sit at the machine in a straight and upright position, with knees bent at a 90° angle and elbows the same. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor. The ideal height of your machine bed is the distance from your elbow to the floor. If you prefer a sewing machine surface that's tilted, purchase a special mat or stand for this purpose. It supports the machine base at a 10-15° angle to reduce stress on arms and neck. Don't skimp on your sewing chair purchase. Select one with an adjustable height, adjustable back support, arms and a seat with good support for your body and legs. Wheels on the chair allow for easy movement around the room, and from machine to computer to iron, depending on the configuration. Read the full article
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ilhamadorock · 4 years
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Buy The Quilting Iron Immediately
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Whether you were quilting for time, you will realize that just about any iron are certain to get the job finished, however buying the perfect one leaves a major distinction. To support balance the temptations and pleasures of quilting, a hot iron in the prepare makes hammering and pressing simple.
Guidelines to Buy the quilting iron
Among the long collection of tools, you are going to need which include a stitching machine, clips, cutters, trimmers and mats, even the more best iron for quilters you use plays a major role at a flawless, pucker-free quilt.
Highly Effective Steam Output
The total amount of steam that your iron produced can help determine the period of time spent ironing. The more steam, the faster and better your ironing. Steam helps soften the fibers in the cloth thus creases and wrinkles drop off much more quickly.
In the event you need to de-wrinkle large areas of fabric or bed linen, a highly effective steam output signal will hemp penetrate laters so you do not need to iron both sides.
Speedy Heat Time
Even the best iron for quilters needs to stay hot whilst quilting therefore it is about to press the stitches since you have finished stitching each block. In the event the iron you choose features a quick shut-off time, then make sure that its powerful adequate to warm up again in moments.
If the only plate hangs while you sew, it decelerates the quilting procedure and also you have to wait for your iron to heat up before you can press on the piece which you have just sewn and until you can start on the future part.
Like a security feature, a few designs switch off automatically if they've yet to be in use for around 10 seconds. This really is excellent, nonetheless it could be bothersome. Some duties can require longer than this then you'll need to wait in order for this to return back on and heat up.
Decide on the best iron for quilting using high wattage so that it warms up fast. Also, assess the safety switch-off attribute permits one time between pressing and stitching on or it doesn't pull the plug on in any way.
Performance and quality
In the event you are using the iron for quilting or some other sewing job, then you would better obtain yourself a tough iron which may endure the strenuous tasks you are going to use it for.
Dimension and Weight
For traveling on quilting retreats, a mini-sized iron may mean significantly less to take on your toolbox.
A little, much additional light weight steam iron signifies work. If cleans your cubes and repeatedly sewing and pressing, you could raise and position it down several hundred occasions. If it's mild, your arm won't get exhausted as rapid and you'll be able to earn quick advancement. That is especially beneficial if you suffer from arthritis.
Water Potential
Look at the size of this water tank potential. Depending on just how much steam you would like to use, a bigger water ability will probably mean that you need not refill the tank too usually. Additionally, verify the water-type your iron uses. Plain tap water causes ironing less difficult than needing to utilize bottled.
Conveniently, all of the above mentioned irons inside our selection permit you to do the job faithfully both with or without steam.
Soleplate Form and Dimensions
A bigger area will signify you cover a bigger surface area in a single ironing motion along with a in depth tip, yes, you guessed it, lets you todo finer, detailing which is a important feature to get a quilter pressing pits along with for anyone browsing collars and cuffs onto clothes.
New fashion iron plates also have leakproof seals to prevent water marks on clothes, and keep an eye out with this feature to avoid unnecessary damage to garments like the iron ages.
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inquiringquilter · 5 years
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Sew Lets QAL: Block 6 Binding Clips
Hi! Welcome to Block 6 of the Sew Let’s Quilt Along!
Details of the quilt along are located on the Sew Lets QAL tab above, but here’s the short version: we’re presenting the blocks for this quilt along in segments. To win a prize, make all the blocks from that segment, then upload a photo of them all at the end of the segment.
This is Block 6 in the quilt along and the first block in Segment 2. To enter for the Segment 2 Prize, you will need to make the four Segment 2 blocks and post a photo of them at the end of Segment 2. The prize winner for Segment 2 will be announced on July 16th. Click here to view the QAL schedule and to learn more.
To enter for the Grand Prize at the end of the quilt along, you’ll need to either make a quilt using all 12 blocks in the quilt along, or make one or more projects that together include all the blocks. The quilt along doesn’t end until September 10th, but if you want to get a head start on making projects, here’s a link to a project suggestion.
The sixth block was designed by me, and it’s Binding Clips!
When I tried to think of what sewing related thing I wanted to include in my block, I simply had to do mini clips. I use them for binding of course, and for practically everything else.
Click below to download the Binding Clips block pattern.
Block 6: Binding Clips
I think you’ll like making this block because it’s fairly easy and there are no seams to match. <woot!> Still, there are a few things you should know to be successful. Before we get to my tips for this block, let’s talk about fabric selection.
My Fabric Pull for This Block
Mini clips come in a variety of colors and I wanted to include all those colors in my block: blue, red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink. You might choose to use a single color for your binding clips instead and that’s OK.
Regardless of which way you go, I highly recommend using solids or tone-on-tones for your binding clip fabrics.
Use a background fabric that contrasts well with the binding fabrics so your binding clips will show up well in the block. I chose white, but you could choose any color you like including black.
I recommend a fun print for the quilt backing, such as this adorable fox print by Tula Pink. Choose a matching print for the quilting binding. Make sure your binding print contrasts well with your binding clip fabrics. I chose that beautiful magenta shown here on the right. It’s a solid, but your binding fabric doesn’t have to be—as long as it contrasts with your binding fabrics.
Tip: You could get fancy and add a flange or large ric rac next to your binding if you want by simply sewing it into the seam between the binding and the background fabrics.
You’ll notice that binding clips have a silver spring in the center—I chose a solid grey for that. There is also an opening in the binding clip center just behind that silver spring—your background fabric will show through here so again make sure the background fabric contrasts well with your binding clip fabrics.
My Tips and Tutorials for Making This Block
As I mentioned earlier, my Binding Clips block is super easy to make and there are no matching seams! Here are my tips for success.
trim as you go
The units that make up each binding clip are smallish, so trimming them as you go is important. For example, trim Unit 1 to 2-1/2” square and Unit 2 to 1-1/2” x 2” as shown here.
After sewing the Clip Units together in Step 4, be sure to trim them as shown here.
The pattern tells you how to trim at each stage, so pay attention to that and take the time to trim as you go!
Pay Attention When Making the Half Clip Units!
There are two Half Clip Units at the top and bottom of the block. To make these you basically repeat the steps except that when making the center unit, you sew only one binder fabric rectangle to either to the top or the bottom of the grey-Background unit (see the completed yellow and orange middle units below).
So when assembling the Half Clip Units be sure to follow the steps in the pattern—watch for the placement of that Binder fabric in the center section, and trim as you go and you’ll be just fine.
Next you make Between Units that fit between the Clip Units. These are easy peasy because you’re only sewing two rectangles together. But again, be sure to trim to size as instructed in the pattern so your block will go together smoothly.
Assemble the Block
Layout the three Clip Units, two Half Clip Units, and the Between units and sew them together in a tall column as shown here. Trim the Clip Section to size like the pattern says, then add the Quilt Backing rectangle to the left and the Background rectangle to the right and you’ve got your block!
Pressing Issues
As I mentioned earlier, one of the awesome things about this block is that there are no seams to match. Woot! This means you don’t need to press a particular way to get connecting seams to nest together because there aren’t any!
If you want to follow my lead, here’s how I pressed my block.
trim the block to size
Be sure to press your block neatly so it lays flat, then trim it to 12-1/2” square.
Have fun with my block! I can’t wait to see your version!
Thanks for the Tips! Who else is making this block?
Remember, you can download my Binding Clips pattern by clicking the button you’ll find at the beginning of this post. Hurry! The pattern is only available for free until September 21st.
Here are the hosts for Segment 2. Drop by their blogs to view their versions of my block and to read their tips for making it.
Jennifer @ Inquiring Quilter (that’s me!)
Abbie @ Sparkle On April @ JANDA Bend Quilts Bobbi @ Snowy Days Quilting Karen @ Tu-Na Quilts, Travels and Eats Sherry @ Powered by Quilting Becca @ Pretty Piney Quilts Sandy @ SandyStar Designs
Time to Announce the Winner of the Segment 1 Prize Giveaway!
To enter our Segment 1 Prize Giveaway, you had to make all five blocks in Segment 1. If you missed a block you can still download the patterns so you can make the blocks and enter our Grand Prize giveaway at the end of the quilt along. Click here for more info.
And the winner is…
…being announced soon on Instagram (search for the hashtag #sewletsqal) and on our private Facebook group.
Congratulations whoever the lucky winner turns out to be! Here’s what you won for making all the blocks in Segment 1:
A newly released item from Omnigrid® (a Prym Company)! Large Folding Cutting Kit that includes 18 x 24" mat, a 3" x 18" ruler and a 45 mm rotary cutter
Timeless Treasures Tonga Treat Strip Jr. "Orchid" -20 pc 2 1/2" strip pack
2 Shabby Fabrics Vintage Blessings printed table runner patterns and a packet of Sunflower laser-cut appliqués (small)
A free PDF pattern from each of these Partners in Design
Sandra Healy @ Sandra Healy Designs
April @ JANDABend Quilts
Sherry @ Powered by Quilting *up to $10.00
I Didn’t Win. Can I Get a Do-Over? <wink>
Well, not exactly, but you can make the four blocks for Segment 2 and enter to win the Segment 2 giveaway (you enter after we present all the blocks in Segment 2—click here to view the quilt along schedule).
Here’s what you might win by making all the Segment 2 blocks:
A Warm 100 queen size batting from the Warm Company
A fat quarter bundle from Dear Stella, “Can You Dig It?” collection
Three printed table runner patterns from Shabby Fabrics, the Vintage Series.
Plus you’ll receive a free PDF pattern of your choice for each of these Partners in Design:
Jennifer @ Inquiring Quilter (that’s me!)
Sherry @ Powered by Quilting (up to $10)
You’ll need to make all the blocks if you want to enter the Grand Prize giveaway at the end of the quilt along. If you need block patterns you’ve missed, click here to learn where to get them.
Thanks for stopping by! The next block in Segment 2 will be released June 4th.
you might also like
Tell me…how are you planning on personalizing your block?
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bestcartreviews · 4 years
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9+ Best Irons for Quilting in 2020
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If you love quilting, then you probably know that a solid iron is an indispensable tool for you! You need specialized irons for quilting, and that cannot be done with a regular iron. We are here with a list of the best irons for quilting that will help every quilter out there. These irons are easy to use and are specific for quilting purposes. All the irons belong to renowned brands, so you can rest assured that you are buying a branded device. Let’s get started!
Best Irons for Quilting Reviews
After extensive research, we shortlisted five irons that are ideal for quilting! Here are these irons explained in detail so that you can pick the best one for you. Comparison Table Product Link  Weight Auto Shutoff Soleplate Material Performance  https://amzn.to/2GeYZQ9 3 pounds YES Ceramic 9/10 https://amzn.to/2ujK04N 3.4 pounds YES Stainless Steel 7/10 https://amzn.to/2GbOKMw 4.5 pounds YES Stainless Steel 9.5/10 https://amzn.to/2RhqYoD 2.2 pounds YES Diamond Coated Ceramic 8/10 https://amzn.to/36gUBe0 4.1 pounds YES Chromium 8.5/10 https://amzn.to/2NT8SXT 4.1 pounds YES Chromium 8.5/10 https://amzn.to/37lGZjd 2.2 pounds YES Stainless Steel 7/10 https://amzn.to/3aDaDlW 5.05 pounds YES Ceramic 8.5/10 https://amzn.to/2GjkJKQ 9.3 pounds YES Stainless Steel 10/10
1. BEAUTURAL 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen
This iron from BEATURAL will surely make your job easier as it comes with an LCD. The iron is lightweight so that you can control it better while quilting. Moreover, there are multiple temperature presets so that you can adjust the temperature based on the type of fabric.
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Double Ceramic Soleplate The iron comes with a double ceramic soleplate, which is scratch resistant and is harder than conventional stainless steel. The surface of the plate is smooth, so it effortlessly glides on the fabric. Moreover, you can clean it easily, and the double layer protection will protect the delicate fabrics from getting damaged while ironing. Multiple Preset Modes This iron has multiple preset modes, and you can choose the right one based on the type of fabric. The selected preset mode will be displayed on the LCD so that you can check that you have selected the right mode according to the fabric. Now there is no room for any guesswork, and you can do better quilting with this iron. Auto-Shutoff Quilting is a complicated process, and it is quite common that people get distracted into some other work while quilting. With this iron, you can ensure guaranteed safety. The auto-shutoff feature will turn off the iron after detecting that there is no motion for a considerable time. This iron has built-in sensors that detect motion to help you better.
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Verdict If you need an iron for quilting that works flawlessly, then this iron is what you need. It comes with multiple presets so you can use it for different fabrics. Plus, it has a built-in sprayer that sprays water on the fabric for better quilting.
2. Rowenta DW5080 1700-Watt Micro Steam Iron
Here is a made in Germany iron that has excellent build quality. The iron comes with 400 holes that emit steam and makes quilting easier for you. This iron worked on 1700W and glided easily on different fabrics. Moreover, you can put in regular tap water in the container to use with this iron.
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Advanced Safety The iron comes with a 3-way auto-shutoff feature that protects the iron from any damages. If you don't use the iron for constant 8-minutes, then it will shut off automatically. Also, the iron can detect that it is lied down on a flat base for more than 30-seconds to shut off the power supply. You can ensure decent safety with this Rowenta iron. Anti-Calcium System There is no need to pour purified water in this iron. You can use it with regular tap water as it comes with the anti-calcium system. The mechanism of the iron can remove the impurities from water to prevent any blockages while using. Stainless Steel Precision Tip If you want to become a master quilter, then this iron is what you need. The stainless steel soleplate glides smoothly on any type of fabric. Also, you can clean the iron easily with a damp cloth. There are about 400 steam holes present on the soleplate that can help you in better quilting.
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Verdict The iron has a translucent water tank, and you can check if the water capacity is too low to use the iron. There is an indicator that shows that the iron is on and connected to the power supply.
3. Oliso Pro TG1600 Smart Iron
Oliso is here with an advanced iron that can help you in quilting. This iron has some superior features that make it better than other irons available in the market. The body is sturdy, and you can use it without any hassles.
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iTouch Technology The iron is smart enough to detect whether you are ironing or not to prevent any damages and injuries to the user. Whenever you lift the iron, it stops heating and prevents any type of injury. This is one of the best-in-class features of this quilting iron. Powerful Soleplate The iron can rapidly heat up so that you don’t have to wait for quilting. It draws 1800watts of power from the outlet and becomes ready to serve you with your purpose. 2-Inch Detailer Tip There is a 2-inch detailer on the tip of the iron that will help you in making the layers crisp and clean. You can iron pockets, cuffs, and other fabric parts with ease using the detailer tip.
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Verdict If you don't mind spending some more money on a reliable iron, then you should consider buying this product. It can work on any type of fabric while preventing it from getting damaged. Also, the water tank allows you to spray enough water while quilting.
4. Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron with Solemate
Here is another quilting iron from Oliso that is ideal if you have a limited budget. This iron comes with some handy features that make it a great choice for quilting. Moreover, you can use this iron easily while gliding on different types of fabric.
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Fabric Selector It becomes hard for some people to select the ideal temperature for a specific fabric. But with this iron, you can select the fabric, and the iron will automatically get the ideal temperature. There is a dedicated knob available that will help you in preparing the iron for wool, cotton, and synthetic fabric. Diamond Coated Ceramic Soleplate The diamond-coated ceramic soleplate will help you in gliding the iron effortlessly on all types of fabrics. Also, the heat distribution is even among the plate, and you can quilt better with this iron. With the help of the precision tip, you can iron the hard to reach areas without any hassles. Pivot Cord The pivot cord allows you to maneuver the iron with ease in any direction. Now there is no need to worry about the cord damage as this iron has a pivoting cord that is flexible enough to prevent any damage. This iron needs 1000 watts to work correctly.
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Verdict Oliso is a premium brand that manufactures best-in-class irons. This quilting iron is an excellent option if you don't want to shell out more money. Using this iron is the easy and you can take it with you with the help of the Soleplate mat provided by the manufacturer.
5. Oliso TG1100 Smart Iron with iTouch Technology
We can’t stop ourselves from adding another iron from Oliso as this iron is what every quilter needs. The iron comes equipped with some fantastic features, and you should consider buying it if you are a quilter. The cord of the iron is 12-feet long, so you can work freely without using an extension wire.
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Tripleplay Xtremesteam The Tripleplay Xtremesteam feature of this iron will reward you with three steam settings, including vertical, horizontal, and continuous bursts. It is entirely up to your requirements which type of burst you want to use. Chromium Soleplate The iron has a thick chromium soleplate that can resist scratches and damages. The iron is specially designed for quilters, and the even steam distribution makes it possible for you to use this iron like a pro. Auto Shutoff The iron shuts off automatically after detecting 10-minutes of inactivity. It also shuts off if you place the iron knocked over the fabric. In short, this iron will ensure 100% safety while using.
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Verdict This iron is specially designed for quilters, which makes it better for the quilting process. You can adjust the temperature with the knob and can use the iron with ultimate ease.
6. PureSteam Professional Grade Steam Iron
If you want to do quilting more efficiently, then this iron can help you! The iron comes with a thermostat control knob so you can adjust the temperature on the go. Also, the iron works on 1700watts, and it heats up quickly so that you can get into action without wasting time.
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Effective Wrinkle Remover The advanced soleplate of this iron can easily remove wrinkles from the fabric. You can use the steamer as well to iron much efficiently using this device. The soleplate is made using chromium, so it glides on the fabric without sticking to it. Auto Shutoff This PureSteam quilting iron has a 3-way shutoff, and it turns the powerfully off after detecting inactivity. If you forget to switch off the iron, then don't worry. This iron will turn off automatically while protecting the fabric and your home. Anti-Calcium System There is no need to use purified water with this iron. It has a huge water tank that can use regular tap water. You can spray the steam on the clothes with the assurance that there will be no calcium buildup in the water tank.
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Verdict If you need a quilting iron that comes in your budget, then this iron is what you should get. The pivot cord allows you to use the iron freely as it doesn’t restrict the movement of the iron in any direction.
7. Panasonic 360 Ceramic Cordless Freestyle Metallic Red Iron
With this iron, there is no cord attached to you that can freely quilt without any hassles. The iron comes with a base that supplies heat to the soleplate for proper functioning. This is a handy iron that is ideal if you want to use it on bigger fabric or cloth pieces.
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Detachable Water Tank If you don't need the water tank, you can detach it from the iron. Also, cleaning the water tank is easy once you take it out from the iron's body. Double Pointed Design Regular irons have a pointed tip at the front, but this iron has pointed tips at both ends. You get better creases, which are ideal for shirts and pants. There are multiple steam holes on the soleplate, so there is even distribution of steam for better ironing. Variable Steam Spray You have the option to choose the direction of the strand spray. You can choose from vertical and horizontal steam spray based on your requirements. This is a feature that makes it easier to use the iron on different types of fabrics.
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Verdict If you want to work on curtains and bigger cloth pieces, then this iron is a perfect deal for you. It is portable so you can carry it with you. Lastly, there is no cord attached so that you will get the freedom of movement.
8. Rowenta Green DG7530 Steam Iron Station
Rowenta is here with an ironing station that will make your life easier! All the controls are available o the station so you can access them without any hassles. From controlling the pressure of the steam to choosing the eco mode, you can do anything with this iron station.
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Powerful Steam Spray The iron promises a three times powerful steam spray than the regular irons. You can control the pressure of the steam using the controls available on the iron station. The water boils quickly, and the water tank is much bigger, so you get more steam. Eco Mode Using the Eco Mode will help you in saving some energy, which will reflect by helping you in saving some bucks on your energy bills. The eco mode is also available on the iron station, and you can power it one just with a click. Removable Water Tank Now there is no need to struggle with the water tank to refill it when you can remove the water tank of this iron. You can detach the tank to clean it and to refill it for the next use. Moreover, you can refill the tank fully by checking the overflow marking available on it.
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Verdict This iron is perfect for professional quilters because of the steam pressure selection functionality and eco mode. You can rest the iron on the iron station when not in use, and it will protect the soleplate from getting damaged.
9. T-fal FV2640U0 PowerGlide Steam Iron
T-fal FV2640U0 is an innovative iron that comes in a handy shape and is easy to use. The iron has an Exclusive Durilium Ceramic Soleplate that provides superior glide and is completely scratch resistant. You can use this iron for an effortless experience with its perfect precision tip.
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Anti-Drip System The iron comes equipped with the anti-drip system, so there will be no scattered water on your clothes. It will only release steam whenever you need, and that makes it a must-have for you. Innovative Calc-Collector The calc-collector fitted inside the water tank catches all the loose deposits and minerals while preventing them from depositing into the water tank. You can use regular water with this steam iron, and it will work flawlessly. Powerful 1800-watt Steam This iron will reward you with a blow of steam that is almost two times powerful than the regular irons. More steam means you can remove the wrinkles from the clothes quickly.
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Verdict You cannot expect more from this iron at the price point it is available at. From quilting on small pieces to large cloth pieces, you can do almost anything with this handy iron. Buying Guide: How to Buy the Best Iron for Quilting Here is a list of features you need to consider before buying the best irons for quilting. Soleplate Check whether the soleplate is made up of durable material like chromium, stainless steel, and ceramic. The soleplate plays a vital role in the quilting process, so you should check it before buying anything. Adjustable Heat Quilting is done on different fabrics, so it is ideal to buy an iron that works on various fabrics. Check if the iron has adjustable temperature settings to ensure better quilting. Built-in Steamer All the quilting irons have built-in steamer or sprayer that sprays a continuous stream of water on the fabric. All the irons listed in this article have built-in sprayers. Weight Iron should be lightweight so that you can handle it with ease. Most of the irons these days are lightweight, so you can use them without feeling any bulk. You can buy any iron from this list as these are light in weight. Watt Check the power of the iron as it has a direct impact on the performance. The iron with more power heats up quickly so you can do quilting more quickly. Additional Features Look for some extra features like auto shutoff, and fabric selector to make the process even better. Some irons have these features, and you can buy them for the quilting process. Budget Lastly, you should consider the budget before shopping for quilting iron. These irons are available at different prices based on their features, so you should choose wisely to avoid spending more. Also, Read TimTam Power Massager V1.5 Review Aprilaire (Steam Humidifier) 700 Vs 800 Reviews Bawell Platinum Alkaline Water Ionizer Machine Review 7+ Best Shark Vacuum Cleaners Review Breville the Compact Smart Oven Countertop Electric Toaster Oven BOV650XL Review Conclusion These are some of the best irons for quilting, and you can choose any of these for your requirements. Make sure to go through the buying guide so that you can select a better iron. Our teams have tested these irons to evaluate their performance while quilting, and we were pretty satisfied. You should also get an ironing table if you don't have one as you can do better ironing on a table. Get a quilting iron right here and make quilting more straightforward than ever. Read the full article
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bluebearquilts · 6 years
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Day 3 of March Meet the Maker. Today’s prompt is flatlay. I have laid out on a cutting mat some beautiful QT Fabrics from their basic Harmony line, my Quilter’s Select rotary cutter, which I love, Clover retractable tape measure and clips, beautiful wood carved seem ripper, which feels so nice in your hand and an Accuquilt die for cutting the fabric. #marchmeetthemaker #marchmeetthemaker2019 #quiltersselect #accuquilt #cloverclips #qtfabrics #quilting #bluebearquilts https://www.instagram.com/p/Buj25K7nSdN/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=rpx8d0072phq
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Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek
I’m a reasonably artistic individual. I all the time have been, and my maternal family history consists of lots of creative-minded individuals. One in every of my cousins is a bona fide skilled artist, my mother is musically gifted in addition to an amazing seamstress, my grandmother was an completed seamstress, quilter, and needlepointer…and the listing simply goes on.
I’ve discovered that I’m not notably skilled at creating imagery and designs out of skinny air (or my creativeness), but I actually take pleasure in creating. I first came upon concerning the existence of computerized craft cutters several years in the past and didn’t really know a lot about them – all I learn was that ProvoCraft had this line of Cricut-branded craft cutters that used very costly cartridges, and when a company reverse-engineered the software used to regulate the machine so as to launch a product that allowed using any pictures or fonts you needed, ProvoCraft sued the pants off of them and gained. Thank Invoice Clinton and the DMCA for that one.
In 2015, I happened upon a blog submit speaking about an all-new Cricut machine that was supposed to deal with customers’ number-one grievance: the lack to create your personal designs, separate from expensive cartridges, to be minimize on a Cricut machine. The more research I did, the extra I needed one among these new machines. Lo and behold, Santa purchased me a Cricut Explore Air for Christmas that same yr!
Santa seems an awful lot like my fiance Jay, by the best way. Think about that!
I acquired proper to work as quickly as I opened the field. True to my nature, I had to find methods to make this machine do greater than what your average crafter would do. Sharing is caring, so I decided other individuals is perhaps interested what I’ve discovered by way of my Cricut adventures.
Tools You May (Not) Want
Cricut provides a line of branded tools, in fact. Some of them are pretty good, and some of them are pretty terrible. I subscribed to Cricut’s promotional emails and picked up their primary device package once they have been having a 40% off sale on equipment. For the worth it’s okay, but at full worth it’s not value it.
Right here’s why – and I’ve given you some concepts on options to the Cricut tools.
Micro-tipped scissors
These scissors have a very sharp, very small blade, which does make them helpful for trimming tiny bits of cardstock and material. Nevertheless. a great pair of embroidery scissors can accomplish the same factor, and for trimming paper, nothing beats a very good set of interest knives. I’ve a set that Jay had laying round from working on model practice stuff, and I really like them – the handles are ergonomic and really straightforward to regulate, and the set comes with quite a lot of blades in a secure plastic case. Yow will discover the set I bought on Amazon for a bit underneath $18, however any quality interest knife set can be your greatest good friend.
Spatula
That is considered one of two tools from the package that I exploit recurrently. The spatula has a very thin metallic blade, which makes it indispensable when making an attempt to take away cardstock and paper out of your chopping mats. Cricut makes a set that features just the spatula and scraper (and typically bundles these two tools with the machine relying on what specific product and SKU you’re shopping for), so that’s in all probability a greater guess general than the costlier package I purchased.
Scraper
Like the spatula, the scraper is pretty indispensable. You should use it to knock bits of cardstock off your slicing mat shortly and easily. Cricut also makes an extra giant scraper which is perhaps higher bang for your buck.
That being stated, there are lot of different scraper options you will get for a bit cheaper – a small plastic pan and pot scraper will do the identical because the Cricut scraper.
Weeder
The weeder software is an oversized dental decide – and it turns out that, at the very least with the work I’ve carried out with vinyl, window clings, and cardstock, the Cricut-branded weeder is method, approach too huge. I began using a DenTek-branded dental decide that came with our electrical toothbrush and WaterPik set, and it’s worked a lot better than the Cricut weeder. I’d highly advocate choosing up a dental tartar decide (there are a ton on Amazon) over this Cricut device.
One really useful tip – you should use a weeder and a puddle of glue to piece collectively tiny cardstock bits. Dip the tip of the weeder in the glue to use tiny drops of glue to your items.
Tweezers
These tweezers are so freaking terrible. They’re 100% ineffective. They’re very imprecise, and the squeeze-to-open design is tough to make use of with my (considerably abnormal) tiny palms. I think they’re downright unusable in case you have arthritis or some other nice motor talent or mobility problems. There are a wide variety of precision tweezer choices out there which are a lot better – look in craft and pharmacy departments at your native massive box store. I additionally advocate Harbor Freight, if there’s one in your space – they’re principally the Aldi of hardware stores and sell a whole lot of cheap, private-label stuff, they usually have lots of hobbyist instruments and kit. You can too find options on Amazon.
Scoring Device
The Explore and Explore Air can minimize and score in a single cross (in other phrases, with out having to cease and alter instruments – the Explore One requires switching instruments between slicing and scoring). This is implausible for making envelopes, packing containers, and pop-up playing cards. The scoring device is certainly well worth the cash.
Further Tools and Provides
Chopping Mat
Once I first started creating stuff with my Cricut, I used to be working with my interest knives immediately on my desktop. My craft space is about up with an previous IKEA Jerker desk I’ve had since school, and the desktop floor is well-worn, so including little cuts to it didn’t hassle me. I decided to select up a chopping mat anyhow, as a result of it makes for a better work floor. I ended up getting this Alvin mat on Amazon, as a result of I have Amazon Prime and pretty much all the time decide stuff with same-day delivery each time attainable. Any chopping mat will work, but I undoubtedly advocate getting a slicing mat in case you’re going to do plenty of effective, detailed work.
Brayer Roller
A brayer curler is absolutely just a roller. I don’t know why it’s referred to as “brayer”, however that’s what you need to look for. I obtained this Speedball set on Amazon and have been really proud of it. I exploit the arduous rubber and acrylic rollers to flatten out cardstock and clean bubbles in vinyl sheets. These rollers are also nice for applying supplies smoothly onto your slicing mats.
Protip – on the set I purchased, the acrylic roller didn’t transfer in any respect in the handle. I utilized a bit of mineral oil to the pins on the ends of the curler, and that fastened it right up. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants like WD-40, since those will trigger the acrylic to deteriorate.
Glue and Adhesives
Glue is tremendous necessary for pretty much any cardstock or paper Cricut venture. Thus far, I’ve simply been utilizing Aileen’s Cheesy Glue. As I mentioned earlier on this article, a dental tartar decide works rather well for dabbing on tiny drops of glue for piecing collectively a challenge. It’s not optimum, though – I have to maintain some scrap cardboard available to hold puddles of glue, and the glue starts drying out method too shortly. Not solely that, however Cheesy Glue has an annoying habit of wrinkling each paper and cardstock if even a tiny bit too much is used.
I’m still looking for the most effective adhesive options. I picked up a number of Tombow merchandise from Amazon this week and am going to attempt them out – I’m notably enthusiastic about this ballpoint glue pen! It seems to be like it can work great for placing everlasting glue on tiny strips and bits of cardstock when piecing together a challenge – and it might be no less than slightly less tedious.
Rulers and Straightedges
One other very useful gizmo is a top quality ruler. I’ve tried totally different ones and located that I really like metallic rulers out there pretty much anyplace – so long as you shield them from getting bent! A right-angle ruler or triangle can also be very, very useful for those who’re slicing out smaller items of fabric for slicing out a challenge. I don’t have any recommendations on this one – no matter you favor when it comes to measurement and material will work simply advantageous!
Tiny Trashcan
I’m lifeless critical about this one – you’ll have so many tiny pieces of cardstock, paper, vinyl, and material from working with a craft cutter! I acquired a tiny garbage can from my local Daiso retailer for $1.50 and added some vinyl to it to show it into Jake the Canine from Journey Time. Amazon doesn’t have many choices on this entrance. I found one at The Container Store for $5, but I feel you’ll be able to in all probability find a cheaper one at your local dollar retailer. It sits on my desk, and I exploit it each time I work on a challenge.
Markers and Pens
Writing with the Cricut is pretty candy. In case you have the Cricut Explore or the Cricut Explore Air, it comes with an adjunct holder that is used for the scoring device in addition to writing utensils. When you’ve got the Cricut Explore One, you want a unique accessory holder. You can even use this adapter within the blade holder on the Explore and Explore Air to do some hackier stuff (extra on that later).
Cricut has designed its holder to work with its personal pens, in fact, however there are different choices out there! I’m not going to go over all the things, as a result of this awesome weblog submit covers pretty much the whole lot you could be questioning about using non-Cricut pens with the Cricut Explore and Explore Air. A couple notes, although…
Pilot Precise V5 Rollerball Pens
Pilot V5 fine-point pens click on into the adapter properly, however it appears that ProvoCraft added something to the firmware to stop the pens from truly touching the paper in the event you attempt to use them. I found a simple workaround – for any shapes or strains you want drawn, set them to score as an alternative in Design Area. This can decrease the accessory adapter simply far enough for the pen to put in writing reliably on your materials.
Crayola High quality-Level Markers
I’ve found that using a dime and a nickle stacked provides the right shim for these markers (and anything that doesn’t snap into place) so that the height is good.
Software program
Okay, so this one is going to be a separate article. Cricut’s web-based Design Area device is pretty terrible. It’s required for sending your tasks to your Explore machine, but you undoubtedly don’t have to use it for creating issues. i exploit Adobe Illustrator CS6, however there are undoubtedly cheaper options out there – and I’m going to research them for you so you don’t should!
More to return…
The post Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek appeared first on Laptop Computer Info.
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Text
Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek
I’m a reasonably artistic individual. I all the time have been, and my maternal family history consists of lots of creative-minded individuals. One in every of my cousins is a bona fide skilled artist, my mother is musically gifted in addition to an amazing seamstress, my grandmother was an completed seamstress, quilter, and needlepointer…and the listing simply goes on.
I’ve discovered that I’m not notably skilled at creating imagery and designs out of skinny air (or my creativeness), but I actually take pleasure in creating. I first came upon concerning the existence of computerized craft cutters several years in the past and didn’t really know a lot about them – all I learn was that ProvoCraft had this line of Cricut-branded craft cutters that used very costly cartridges, and when a company reverse-engineered the software used to regulate the machine so as to launch a product that allowed using any pictures or fonts you needed, ProvoCraft sued the pants off of them and gained. Thank Invoice Clinton and the DMCA for that one.
In 2015, I happened upon a blog submit speaking about an all-new Cricut machine that was supposed to deal with customers’ number-one grievance: the lack to create your personal designs, separate from expensive cartridges, to be minimize on a Cricut machine. The more research I did, the extra I needed one among these new machines. Lo and behold, Santa purchased me a Cricut Explore Air for Christmas that same yr!
Santa seems an awful lot like my fiance Jay, by the best way. Think about that!
I acquired proper to work as quickly as I opened the field. True to my nature, I had to find methods to make this machine do greater than what your average crafter would do. Sharing is caring, so I decided other individuals is perhaps interested what I’ve discovered by way of my Cricut adventures.
Tools You May (Not) Want
Cricut provides a line of branded tools, in fact. Some of them are pretty good, and some of them are pretty terrible. I subscribed to Cricut’s promotional emails and picked up their primary device package once they have been having a 40% off sale on equipment. For the worth it’s okay, but at full worth it’s not value it.
Right here’s why – and I’ve given you some concepts on options to the Cricut tools.
Micro-tipped scissors
These scissors have a very sharp, very small blade, which does make them helpful for trimming tiny bits of cardstock and material. Nevertheless. a great pair of embroidery scissors can accomplish the same factor, and for trimming paper, nothing beats a very good set of interest knives. I’ve a set that Jay had laying round from working on model practice stuff, and I really like them – the handles are ergonomic and really straightforward to regulate, and the set comes with quite a lot of blades in a secure plastic case. Yow will discover the set I bought on Amazon for a bit underneath $18, however any quality interest knife set can be your greatest good friend.
Spatula
That is considered one of two tools from the package that I exploit recurrently. The spatula has a very thin metallic blade, which makes it indispensable when making an attempt to take away cardstock and paper out of your chopping mats. Cricut makes a set that features just the spatula and scraper (and typically bundles these two tools with the machine relying on what specific product and SKU you’re shopping for), so that’s in all probability a greater guess general than the costlier package I purchased.
Scraper
Like the spatula, the scraper is pretty indispensable. You should use it to knock bits of cardstock off your slicing mat shortly and easily. Cricut also makes an extra giant scraper which is perhaps higher bang for your buck.
That being stated, there are lot of different scraper options you will get for a bit cheaper – a small plastic pan and pot scraper will do the identical because the Cricut scraper.
Weeder
The weeder software is an oversized dental decide – and it turns out that, at the very least with the work I’ve carried out with vinyl, window clings, and cardstock, the Cricut-branded weeder is method, approach too huge. I began using a DenTek-branded dental decide that came with our electrical toothbrush and WaterPik set, and it’s worked a lot better than the Cricut weeder. I’d highly advocate choosing up a dental tartar decide (there are a ton on Amazon) over this Cricut device.
One really useful tip – you should use a weeder and a puddle of glue to piece collectively tiny cardstock bits. Dip the tip of the weeder in the glue to use tiny drops of glue to your items.
Tweezers
These tweezers are so freaking terrible. They’re 100% ineffective. They’re very imprecise, and the squeeze-to-open design is tough to make use of with my (considerably abnormal) tiny palms. I think they’re downright unusable in case you have arthritis or some other nice motor talent or mobility problems. There are a wide variety of precision tweezer choices out there which are a lot better – look in craft and pharmacy departments at your native massive box store. I additionally advocate Harbor Freight, if there’s one in your space – they’re principally the Aldi of hardware stores and sell a whole lot of cheap, private-label stuff, they usually have lots of hobbyist instruments and kit. You can too find options on Amazon.
Scoring Device
The Explore and Explore Air can minimize and score in a single cross (in other phrases, with out having to cease and alter instruments – the Explore One requires switching instruments between slicing and scoring). This is implausible for making envelopes, packing containers, and pop-up playing cards. The scoring device is certainly well worth the cash.
Further Tools and Provides
Chopping Mat
Once I first started creating stuff with my Cricut, I used to be working with my interest knives immediately on my desktop. My craft space is about up with an previous IKEA Jerker desk I’ve had since school, and the desktop floor is well-worn, so including little cuts to it didn’t hassle me. I decided to select up a chopping mat anyhow, as a result of it makes for a better work floor. I ended up getting this Alvin mat on Amazon, as a result of I have Amazon Prime and pretty much all the time decide stuff with same-day delivery each time attainable. Any chopping mat will work, but I undoubtedly advocate getting a slicing mat in case you’re going to do plenty of effective, detailed work.
Brayer Roller
A brayer curler is absolutely just a roller. I don’t know why it’s referred to as “brayer”, however that’s what you need to look for. I obtained this Speedball set on Amazon and have been really proud of it. I exploit the arduous rubber and acrylic rollers to flatten out cardstock and clean bubbles in vinyl sheets. These rollers are also nice for applying supplies smoothly onto your slicing mats.
Protip – on the set I purchased, the acrylic roller didn’t transfer in any respect in the handle. I utilized a bit of mineral oil to the pins on the ends of the curler, and that fastened it right up. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants like WD-40, since those will trigger the acrylic to deteriorate.
Glue and Adhesives
Glue is tremendous necessary for pretty much any cardstock or paper Cricut venture. Thus far, I’ve simply been utilizing Aileen’s Cheesy Glue. As I mentioned earlier on this article, a dental tartar decide works rather well for dabbing on tiny drops of glue for piecing collectively a challenge. It’s not optimum, though – I have to maintain some scrap cardboard available to hold puddles of glue, and the glue starts drying out method too shortly. Not solely that, however Cheesy Glue has an annoying habit of wrinkling each paper and cardstock if even a tiny bit too much is used.
I’m still looking for the most effective adhesive options. I picked up a number of Tombow merchandise from Amazon this week and am going to attempt them out – I’m notably enthusiastic about this ballpoint glue pen! It seems to be like it can work great for placing everlasting glue on tiny strips and bits of cardstock when piecing together a challenge – and it might be no less than slightly less tedious.
Rulers and Straightedges
One other very useful gizmo is a top quality ruler. I’ve tried totally different ones and located that I really like metallic rulers out there pretty much anyplace – so long as you shield them from getting bent! A right-angle ruler or triangle can also be very, very useful for those who’re slicing out smaller items of fabric for slicing out a challenge. I don’t have any recommendations on this one – no matter you favor when it comes to measurement and material will work simply advantageous!
Tiny Trashcan
I’m lifeless critical about this one – you’ll have so many tiny pieces of cardstock, paper, vinyl, and material from working with a craft cutter! I acquired a tiny garbage can from my local Daiso retailer for $1.50 and added some vinyl to it to show it into Jake the Canine from Journey Time. Amazon doesn’t have many choices on this entrance. I found one at The Container Store for $5, but I feel you’ll be able to in all probability find a cheaper one at your local dollar retailer. It sits on my desk, and I exploit it each time I work on a challenge.
Markers and Pens
Writing with the Cricut is pretty candy. In case you have the Cricut Explore or the Cricut Explore Air, it comes with an adjunct holder that is used for the scoring device in addition to writing utensils. When you’ve got the Cricut Explore One, you want a unique accessory holder. You can even use this adapter within the blade holder on the Explore and Explore Air to do some hackier stuff (extra on that later).
Cricut has designed its holder to work with its personal pens, in fact, however there are different choices out there! I’m not going to go over all the things, as a result of this awesome weblog submit covers pretty much the whole lot you could be questioning about using non-Cricut pens with the Cricut Explore and Explore Air. A couple notes, although…
Pilot Precise V5 Rollerball Pens
Pilot V5 fine-point pens click on into the adapter properly, however it appears that ProvoCraft added something to the firmware to stop the pens from truly touching the paper in the event you attempt to use them. I found a simple workaround – for any shapes or strains you want drawn, set them to score as an alternative in Design Area. This can decrease the accessory adapter simply far enough for the pen to put in writing reliably on your materials.
Crayola High quality-Level Markers
I’ve found that using a dime and a nickle stacked provides the right shim for these markers (and anything that doesn’t snap into place) so that the height is good.
Software program
Okay, so this one is going to be a separate article. Cricut’s web-based Design Area device is pretty terrible. It’s required for sending your tasks to your Explore machine, but you undoubtedly don’t have to use it for creating issues. i exploit Adobe Illustrator CS6, however there are undoubtedly cheaper options out there – and I’m going to research them for you so you don’t should!
More to return…
The post Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek appeared first on Laptop Computer Info.
0 notes
whathungerpangs · 5 years
Text
Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek
I’m a reasonably artistic individual. I all the time have been, and my maternal family history consists of lots of creative-minded individuals. One in every of my cousins is a bona fide skilled artist, my mother is musically gifted in addition to an amazing seamstress, my grandmother was an completed seamstress, quilter, and needlepointer…and the listing simply goes on.
I’ve discovered that I’m not notably skilled at creating imagery and designs out of skinny air (or my creativeness), but I actually take pleasure in creating. I first came upon concerning the existence of computerized craft cutters several years in the past and didn’t really know a lot about them – all I learn was that ProvoCraft had this line of Cricut-branded craft cutters that used very costly cartridges, and when a company reverse-engineered the software used to regulate the machine so as to launch a product that allowed using any pictures or fonts you needed, ProvoCraft sued the pants off of them and gained. Thank Invoice Clinton and the DMCA for that one.
In 2015, I happened upon a blog submit speaking about an all-new Cricut machine that was supposed to deal with customers’ number-one grievance: the lack to create your personal designs, separate from expensive cartridges, to be minimize on a Cricut machine. The more research I did, the extra I needed one among these new machines. Lo and behold, Santa purchased me a Cricut Explore Air for Christmas that same yr!
Santa seems an awful lot like my fiance Jay, by the best way. Think about that!
I acquired proper to work as quickly as I opened the field. True to my nature, I had to find methods to make this machine do greater than what your average crafter would do. Sharing is caring, so I decided other individuals is perhaps interested what I’ve discovered by way of my Cricut adventures.
Tools You May (Not) Want
Cricut provides a line of branded tools, in fact. Some of them are pretty good, and some of them are pretty terrible. I subscribed to Cricut’s promotional emails and picked up their primary device package once they have been having a 40% off sale on equipment. For the worth it’s okay, but at full worth it’s not value it.
Right here’s why – and I’ve given you some concepts on options to the Cricut tools.
Micro-tipped scissors
These scissors have a very sharp, very small blade, which does make them helpful for trimming tiny bits of cardstock and material. Nevertheless. a great pair of embroidery scissors can accomplish the same factor, and for trimming paper, nothing beats a very good set of interest knives. I’ve a set that Jay had laying round from working on model practice stuff, and I really like them – the handles are ergonomic and really straightforward to regulate, and the set comes with quite a lot of blades in a secure plastic case. Yow will discover the set I bought on Amazon for a bit underneath $18, however any quality interest knife set can be your greatest good friend.
Spatula
That is considered one of two tools from the package that I exploit recurrently. The spatula has a very thin metallic blade, which makes it indispensable when making an attempt to take away cardstock and paper out of your chopping mats. Cricut makes a set that features just the spatula and scraper (and typically bundles these two tools with the machine relying on what specific product and SKU you’re shopping for), so that’s in all probability a greater guess general than the costlier package I purchased.
Scraper
Like the spatula, the scraper is pretty indispensable. You should use it to knock bits of cardstock off your slicing mat shortly and easily. Cricut also makes an extra giant scraper which is perhaps higher bang for your buck.
That being stated, there are lot of different scraper options you will get for a bit cheaper – a small plastic pan and pot scraper will do the identical because the Cricut scraper.
Weeder
The weeder software is an oversized dental decide – and it turns out that, at the very least with the work I’ve carried out with vinyl, window clings, and cardstock, the Cricut-branded weeder is method, approach too huge. I began using a DenTek-branded dental decide that came with our electrical toothbrush and WaterPik set, and it’s worked a lot better than the Cricut weeder. I’d highly advocate choosing up a dental tartar decide (there are a ton on Amazon) over this Cricut device.
One really useful tip – you should use a weeder and a puddle of glue to piece collectively tiny cardstock bits. Dip the tip of the weeder in the glue to use tiny drops of glue to your items.
Tweezers
These tweezers are so freaking terrible. They’re 100% ineffective. They’re very imprecise, and the squeeze-to-open design is tough to make use of with my (considerably abnormal) tiny palms. I think they’re downright unusable in case you have arthritis or some other nice motor talent or mobility problems. There are a wide variety of precision tweezer choices out there which are a lot better – look in craft and pharmacy departments at your native massive box store. I additionally advocate Harbor Freight, if there’s one in your space – they’re principally the Aldi of hardware stores and sell a whole lot of cheap, private-label stuff, they usually have lots of hobbyist instruments and kit. You can too find options on Amazon.
Scoring Device
The Explore and Explore Air can minimize and score in a single cross (in other phrases, with out having to cease and alter instruments – the Explore One requires switching instruments between slicing and scoring). This is implausible for making envelopes, packing containers, and pop-up playing cards. The scoring device is certainly well worth the cash.
Further Tools and Provides
Chopping Mat
Once I first started creating stuff with my Cricut, I used to be working with my interest knives immediately on my desktop. My craft space is about up with an previous IKEA Jerker desk I’ve had since school, and the desktop floor is well-worn, so including little cuts to it didn’t hassle me. I decided to select up a chopping mat anyhow, as a result of it makes for a better work floor. I ended up getting this Alvin mat on Amazon, as a result of I have Amazon Prime and pretty much all the time decide stuff with same-day delivery each time attainable. Any chopping mat will work, but I undoubtedly advocate getting a slicing mat in case you’re going to do plenty of effective, detailed work.
Brayer Roller
A brayer curler is absolutely just a roller. I don’t know why it’s referred to as “brayer”, however that’s what you need to look for. I obtained this Speedball set on Amazon and have been really proud of it. I exploit the arduous rubber and acrylic rollers to flatten out cardstock and clean bubbles in vinyl sheets. These rollers are also nice for applying supplies smoothly onto your slicing mats.
Protip – on the set I purchased, the acrylic roller didn’t transfer in any respect in the handle. I utilized a bit of mineral oil to the pins on the ends of the curler, and that fastened it right up. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants like WD-40, since those will trigger the acrylic to deteriorate.
Glue and Adhesives
Glue is tremendous necessary for pretty much any cardstock or paper Cricut venture. Thus far, I’ve simply been utilizing Aileen’s Cheesy Glue. As I mentioned earlier on this article, a dental tartar decide works rather well for dabbing on tiny drops of glue for piecing collectively a challenge. It’s not optimum, though – I have to maintain some scrap cardboard available to hold puddles of glue, and the glue starts drying out method too shortly. Not solely that, however Cheesy Glue has an annoying habit of wrinkling each paper and cardstock if even a tiny bit too much is used.
I’m still looking for the most effective adhesive options. I picked up a number of Tombow merchandise from Amazon this week and am going to attempt them out – I’m notably enthusiastic about this ballpoint glue pen! It seems to be like it can work great for placing everlasting glue on tiny strips and bits of cardstock when piecing together a challenge – and it might be no less than slightly less tedious.
Rulers and Straightedges
One other very useful gizmo is a top quality ruler. I’ve tried totally different ones and located that I really like metallic rulers out there pretty much anyplace – so long as you shield them from getting bent! A right-angle ruler or triangle can also be very, very useful for those who’re slicing out smaller items of fabric for slicing out a challenge. I don’t have any recommendations on this one – no matter you favor when it comes to measurement and material will work simply advantageous!
Tiny Trashcan
I’m lifeless critical about this one – you’ll have so many tiny pieces of cardstock, paper, vinyl, and material from working with a craft cutter! I acquired a tiny garbage can from my local Daiso retailer for $1.50 and added some vinyl to it to show it into Jake the Canine from Journey Time. Amazon doesn’t have many choices on this entrance. I found one at The Container Store for $5, but I feel you’ll be able to in all probability find a cheaper one at your local dollar retailer. It sits on my desk, and I exploit it each time I work on a challenge.
Markers and Pens
Writing with the Cricut is pretty candy. In case you have the Cricut Explore or the Cricut Explore Air, it comes with an adjunct holder that is used for the scoring device in addition to writing utensils. When you’ve got the Cricut Explore One, you want a unique accessory holder. You can even use this adapter within the blade holder on the Explore and Explore Air to do some hackier stuff (extra on that later).
Cricut has designed its holder to work with its personal pens, in fact, however there are different choices out there! I’m not going to go over all the things, as a result of this awesome weblog submit covers pretty much the whole lot you could be questioning about using non-Cricut pens with the Cricut Explore and Explore Air. A couple notes, although…
Pilot Precise V5 Rollerball Pens
Pilot V5 fine-point pens click on into the adapter properly, however it appears that ProvoCraft added something to the firmware to stop the pens from truly touching the paper in the event you attempt to use them. I found a simple workaround – for any shapes or strains you want drawn, set them to score as an alternative in Design Area. This can decrease the accessory adapter simply far enough for the pen to put in writing reliably on your materials.
Crayola High quality-Level Markers
I’ve found that using a dime and a nickle stacked provides the right shim for these markers (and anything that doesn’t snap into place) so that the height is good.
Software program
Okay, so this one is going to be a separate article. Cricut’s web-based Design Area device is pretty terrible. It’s required for sending your tasks to your Explore machine, but you undoubtedly don’t have to use it for creating issues. i exploit Adobe Illustrator CS6, however there are undoubtedly cheaper options out there – and I’m going to research them for you so you don’t should!
More to return…
The post Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek appeared first on Laptop Computer Info.
0 notes
tarsoakedgossamer · 5 years
Text
Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek
I’m a reasonably artistic individual. I all the time have been, and my maternal family history consists of lots of creative-minded individuals. One in every of my cousins is a bona fide skilled artist, my mother is musically gifted in addition to an amazing seamstress, my grandmother was an completed seamstress, quilter, and needlepointer…and the listing simply goes on.
I’ve discovered that I’m not notably skilled at creating imagery and designs out of skinny air (or my creativeness), but I actually take pleasure in creating. I first came upon concerning the existence of computerized craft cutters several years in the past and didn’t really know a lot about them – all I learn was that ProvoCraft had this line of Cricut-branded craft cutters that used very costly cartridges, and when a company reverse-engineered the software used to regulate the machine so as to launch a product that allowed using any pictures or fonts you needed, ProvoCraft sued the pants off of them and gained. Thank Invoice Clinton and the DMCA for that one.
In 2015, I happened upon a blog submit speaking about an all-new Cricut machine that was supposed to deal with customers’ number-one grievance: the lack to create your personal designs, separate from expensive cartridges, to be minimize on a Cricut machine. The more research I did, the extra I needed one among these new machines. Lo and behold, Santa purchased me a Cricut Explore Air for Christmas that same yr!
Santa seems an awful lot like my fiance Jay, by the best way. Think about that!
I acquired proper to work as quickly as I opened the field. True to my nature, I had to find methods to make this machine do greater than what your average crafter would do. Sharing is caring, so I decided other individuals is perhaps interested what I’ve discovered by way of my Cricut adventures.
Tools You May (Not) Want
Cricut provides a line of branded tools, in fact. Some of them are pretty good, and some of them are pretty terrible. I subscribed to Cricut’s promotional emails and picked up their primary device package once they have been having a 40% off sale on equipment. For the worth it’s okay, but at full worth it’s not value it.
Right here’s why – and I’ve given you some concepts on options to the Cricut tools.
Micro-tipped scissors
These scissors have a very sharp, very small blade, which does make them helpful for trimming tiny bits of cardstock and material. Nevertheless. a great pair of embroidery scissors can accomplish the same factor, and for trimming paper, nothing beats a very good set of interest knives. I’ve a set that Jay had laying round from working on model practice stuff, and I really like them – the handles are ergonomic and really straightforward to regulate, and the set comes with quite a lot of blades in a secure plastic case. Yow will discover the set I bought on Amazon for a bit underneath $18, however any quality interest knife set can be your greatest good friend.
Spatula
That is considered one of two tools from the package that I exploit recurrently. The spatula has a very thin metallic blade, which makes it indispensable when making an attempt to take away cardstock and paper out of your chopping mats. Cricut makes a set that features just the spatula and scraper (and typically bundles these two tools with the machine relying on what specific product and SKU you’re shopping for), so that’s in all probability a greater guess general than the costlier package I purchased.
Scraper
Like the spatula, the scraper is pretty indispensable. You should use it to knock bits of cardstock off your slicing mat shortly and easily. Cricut also makes an extra giant scraper which is perhaps higher bang for your buck.
That being stated, there are lot of different scraper options you will get for a bit cheaper – a small plastic pan and pot scraper will do the identical because the Cricut scraper.
Weeder
The weeder software is an oversized dental decide – and it turns out that, at the very least with the work I’ve carried out with vinyl, window clings, and cardstock, the Cricut-branded weeder is method, approach too huge. I began using a DenTek-branded dental decide that came with our electrical toothbrush and WaterPik set, and it’s worked a lot better than the Cricut weeder. I’d highly advocate choosing up a dental tartar decide (there are a ton on Amazon) over this Cricut device.
One really useful tip – you should use a weeder and a puddle of glue to piece collectively tiny cardstock bits. Dip the tip of the weeder in the glue to use tiny drops of glue to your items.
Tweezers
These tweezers are so freaking terrible. They’re 100% ineffective. They’re very imprecise, and the squeeze-to-open design is tough to make use of with my (considerably abnormal) tiny palms. I think they’re downright unusable in case you have arthritis or some other nice motor talent or mobility problems. There are a wide variety of precision tweezer choices out there which are a lot better – look in craft and pharmacy departments at your native massive box store. I additionally advocate Harbor Freight, if there’s one in your space – they’re principally the Aldi of hardware stores and sell a whole lot of cheap, private-label stuff, they usually have lots of hobbyist instruments and kit. You can too find options on Amazon.
Scoring Device
The Explore and Explore Air can minimize and score in a single cross (in other phrases, with out having to cease and alter instruments – the Explore One requires switching instruments between slicing and scoring). This is implausible for making envelopes, packing containers, and pop-up playing cards. The scoring device is certainly well worth the cash.
Further Tools and Provides
Chopping Mat
Once I first started creating stuff with my Cricut, I used to be working with my interest knives immediately on my desktop. My craft space is about up with an previous IKEA Jerker desk I’ve had since school, and the desktop floor is well-worn, so including little cuts to it didn’t hassle me. I decided to select up a chopping mat anyhow, as a result of it makes for a better work floor. I ended up getting this Alvin mat on Amazon, as a result of I have Amazon Prime and pretty much all the time decide stuff with same-day delivery each time attainable. Any chopping mat will work, but I undoubtedly advocate getting a slicing mat in case you’re going to do plenty of effective, detailed work.
Brayer Roller
A brayer curler is absolutely just a roller. I don’t know why it’s referred to as “brayer”, however that’s what you need to look for. I obtained this Speedball set on Amazon and have been really proud of it. I exploit the arduous rubber and acrylic rollers to flatten out cardstock and clean bubbles in vinyl sheets. These rollers are also nice for applying supplies smoothly onto your slicing mats.
Protip – on the set I purchased, the acrylic roller didn’t transfer in any respect in the handle. I utilized a bit of mineral oil to the pins on the ends of the curler, and that fastened it right up. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants like WD-40, since those will trigger the acrylic to deteriorate.
Glue and Adhesives
Glue is tremendous necessary for pretty much any cardstock or paper Cricut venture. Thus far, I’ve simply been utilizing Aileen’s Cheesy Glue. As I mentioned earlier on this article, a dental tartar decide works rather well for dabbing on tiny drops of glue for piecing collectively a challenge. It’s not optimum, though – I have to maintain some scrap cardboard available to hold puddles of glue, and the glue starts drying out method too shortly. Not solely that, however Cheesy Glue has an annoying habit of wrinkling each paper and cardstock if even a tiny bit too much is used.
I’m still looking for the most effective adhesive options. I picked up a number of Tombow merchandise from Amazon this week and am going to attempt them out – I’m notably enthusiastic about this ballpoint glue pen! It seems to be like it can work great for placing everlasting glue on tiny strips and bits of cardstock when piecing together a challenge – and it might be no less than slightly less tedious.
Rulers and Straightedges
One other very useful gizmo is a top quality ruler. I’ve tried totally different ones and located that I really like metallic rulers out there pretty much anyplace – so long as you shield them from getting bent! A right-angle ruler or triangle can also be very, very useful for those who’re slicing out smaller items of fabric for slicing out a challenge. I don’t have any recommendations on this one – no matter you favor when it comes to measurement and material will work simply advantageous!
Tiny Trashcan
I’m lifeless critical about this one – you’ll have so many tiny pieces of cardstock, paper, vinyl, and material from working with a craft cutter! I acquired a tiny garbage can from my local Daiso retailer for $1.50 and added some vinyl to it to show it into Jake the Canine from Journey Time. Amazon doesn’t have many choices on this entrance. I found one at The Container Store for $5, but I feel you’ll be able to in all probability find a cheaper one at your local dollar retailer. It sits on my desk, and I exploit it each time I work on a challenge.
Markers and Pens
Writing with the Cricut is pretty candy. In case you have the Cricut Explore or the Cricut Explore Air, it comes with an adjunct holder that is used for the scoring device in addition to writing utensils. When you’ve got the Cricut Explore One, you want a unique accessory holder. You can even use this adapter within the blade holder on the Explore and Explore Air to do some hackier stuff (extra on that later).
Cricut has designed its holder to work with its personal pens, in fact, however there are different choices out there! I’m not going to go over all the things, as a result of this awesome weblog submit covers pretty much the whole lot you could be questioning about using non-Cricut pens with the Cricut Explore and Explore Air. A couple notes, although…
Pilot Precise V5 Rollerball Pens
Pilot V5 fine-point pens click on into the adapter properly, however it appears that ProvoCraft added something to the firmware to stop the pens from truly touching the paper in the event you attempt to use them. I found a simple workaround – for any shapes or strains you want drawn, set them to score as an alternative in Design Area. This can decrease the accessory adapter simply far enough for the pen to put in writing reliably on your materials.
Crayola High quality-Level Markers
I’ve found that using a dime and a nickle stacked provides the right shim for these markers (and anything that doesn’t snap into place) so that the height is good.
Software program
Okay, so this one is going to be a separate article. Cricut’s web-based Design Area device is pretty terrible. It’s required for sending your tasks to your Explore machine, but you undoubtedly don’t have to use it for creating issues. i exploit Adobe Illustrator CS6, however there are undoubtedly cheaper options out there – and I’m going to research them for you so you don’t should!
More to return…
The post Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek appeared first on Laptop Computer Info.
0 notes
yourmadqueen · 5 years
Text
Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek
I’m a reasonably artistic individual. I all the time have been, and my maternal family history consists of lots of creative-minded individuals. One in every of my cousins is a bona fide skilled artist, my mother is musically gifted in addition to an amazing seamstress, my grandmother was an completed seamstress, quilter, and needlepointer…and the listing simply goes on.
I’ve discovered that I’m not notably skilled at creating imagery and designs out of skinny air (or my creativeness), but I actually take pleasure in creating. I first came upon concerning the existence of computerized craft cutters several years in the past and didn’t really know a lot about them – all I learn was that ProvoCraft had this line of Cricut-branded craft cutters that used very costly cartridges, and when a company reverse-engineered the software used to regulate the machine so as to launch a product that allowed using any pictures or fonts you needed, ProvoCraft sued the pants off of them and gained. Thank Invoice Clinton and the DMCA for that one.
In 2015, I happened upon a blog submit speaking about an all-new Cricut machine that was supposed to deal with customers’ number-one grievance: the lack to create your personal designs, separate from expensive cartridges, to be minimize on a Cricut machine. The more research I did, the extra I needed one among these new machines. Lo and behold, Santa purchased me a Cricut Explore Air for Christmas that same yr!
Santa seems an awful lot like my fiance Jay, by the best way. Think about that!
I acquired proper to work as quickly as I opened the field. True to my nature, I had to find methods to make this machine do greater than what your average crafter would do. Sharing is caring, so I decided other individuals is perhaps interested what I’ve discovered by way of my Cricut adventures.
Tools You May (Not) Want
Cricut provides a line of branded tools, in fact. Some of them are pretty good, and some of them are pretty terrible. I subscribed to Cricut’s promotional emails and picked up their primary device package once they have been having a 40% off sale on equipment. For the worth it’s okay, but at full worth it’s not value it.
Right here’s why – and I’ve given you some concepts on options to the Cricut tools.
Micro-tipped scissors
These scissors have a very sharp, very small blade, which does make them helpful for trimming tiny bits of cardstock and material. Nevertheless. a great pair of embroidery scissors can accomplish the same factor, and for trimming paper, nothing beats a very good set of interest knives. I’ve a set that Jay had laying round from working on model practice stuff, and I really like them – the handles are ergonomic and really straightforward to regulate, and the set comes with quite a lot of blades in a secure plastic case. Yow will discover the set I bought on Amazon for a bit underneath $18, however any quality interest knife set can be your greatest good friend.
Spatula
That is considered one of two tools from the package that I exploit recurrently. The spatula has a very thin metallic blade, which makes it indispensable when making an attempt to take away cardstock and paper out of your chopping mats. Cricut makes a set that features just the spatula and scraper (and typically bundles these two tools with the machine relying on what specific product and SKU you’re shopping for), so that’s in all probability a greater guess general than the costlier package I purchased.
Scraper
Like the spatula, the scraper is pretty indispensable. You should use it to knock bits of cardstock off your slicing mat shortly and easily. Cricut also makes an extra giant scraper which is perhaps higher bang for your buck.
That being stated, there are lot of different scraper options you will get for a bit cheaper – a small plastic pan and pot scraper will do the identical because the Cricut scraper.
Weeder
The weeder software is an oversized dental decide – and it turns out that, at the very least with the work I’ve carried out with vinyl, window clings, and cardstock, the Cricut-branded weeder is method, approach too huge. I began using a DenTek-branded dental decide that came with our electrical toothbrush and WaterPik set, and it’s worked a lot better than the Cricut weeder. I’d highly advocate choosing up a dental tartar decide (there are a ton on Amazon) over this Cricut device.
One really useful tip – you should use a weeder and a puddle of glue to piece collectively tiny cardstock bits. Dip the tip of the weeder in the glue to use tiny drops of glue to your items.
Tweezers
These tweezers are so freaking terrible. They’re 100% ineffective. They’re very imprecise, and the squeeze-to-open design is tough to make use of with my (considerably abnormal) tiny palms. I think they’re downright unusable in case you have arthritis or some other nice motor talent or mobility problems. There are a wide variety of precision tweezer choices out there which are a lot better – look in craft and pharmacy departments at your native massive box store. I additionally advocate Harbor Freight, if there’s one in your space – they’re principally the Aldi of hardware stores and sell a whole lot of cheap, private-label stuff, they usually have lots of hobbyist instruments and kit. You can too find options on Amazon.
Scoring Device
The Explore and Explore Air can minimize and score in a single cross (in other phrases, with out having to cease and alter instruments – the Explore One requires switching instruments between slicing and scoring). This is implausible for making envelopes, packing containers, and pop-up playing cards. The scoring device is certainly well worth the cash.
Further Tools and Provides
Chopping Mat
Once I first started creating stuff with my Cricut, I used to be working with my interest knives immediately on my desktop. My craft space is about up with an previous IKEA Jerker desk I’ve had since school, and the desktop floor is well-worn, so including little cuts to it didn’t hassle me. I decided to select up a chopping mat anyhow, as a result of it makes for a better work floor. I ended up getting this Alvin mat on Amazon, as a result of I have Amazon Prime and pretty much all the time decide stuff with same-day delivery each time attainable. Any chopping mat will work, but I undoubtedly advocate getting a slicing mat in case you’re going to do plenty of effective, detailed work.
Brayer Roller
A brayer curler is absolutely just a roller. I don’t know why it’s referred to as “brayer”, however that’s what you need to look for. I obtained this Speedball set on Amazon and have been really proud of it. I exploit the arduous rubber and acrylic rollers to flatten out cardstock and clean bubbles in vinyl sheets. These rollers are also nice for applying supplies smoothly onto your slicing mats.
Protip – on the set I purchased, the acrylic roller didn’t transfer in any respect in the handle. I utilized a bit of mineral oil to the pins on the ends of the curler, and that fastened it right up. Don’t use petroleum-based lubricants like WD-40, since those will trigger the acrylic to deteriorate.
Glue and Adhesives
Glue is tremendous necessary for pretty much any cardstock or paper Cricut venture. Thus far, I’ve simply been utilizing Aileen’s Cheesy Glue. As I mentioned earlier on this article, a dental tartar decide works rather well for dabbing on tiny drops of glue for piecing collectively a challenge. It’s not optimum, though – I have to maintain some scrap cardboard available to hold puddles of glue, and the glue starts drying out method too shortly. Not solely that, however Cheesy Glue has an annoying habit of wrinkling each paper and cardstock if even a tiny bit too much is used.
I’m still looking for the most effective adhesive options. I picked up a number of Tombow merchandise from Amazon this week and am going to attempt them out – I’m notably enthusiastic about this ballpoint glue pen! It seems to be like it can work great for placing everlasting glue on tiny strips and bits of cardstock when piecing together a challenge – and it might be no less than slightly less tedious.
Rulers and Straightedges
One other very useful gizmo is a top quality ruler. I’ve tried totally different ones and located that I really like metallic rulers out there pretty much anyplace – so long as you shield them from getting bent! A right-angle ruler or triangle can also be very, very useful for those who’re slicing out smaller items of fabric for slicing out a challenge. I don’t have any recommendations on this one – no matter you favor when it comes to measurement and material will work simply advantageous!
Tiny Trashcan
I’m lifeless critical about this one – you’ll have so many tiny pieces of cardstock, paper, vinyl, and material from working with a craft cutter! I acquired a tiny garbage can from my local Daiso retailer for $1.50 and added some vinyl to it to show it into Jake the Canine from Journey Time. Amazon doesn’t have many choices on this entrance. I found one at The Container Store for $5, but I feel you’ll be able to in all probability find a cheaper one at your local dollar retailer. It sits on my desk, and I exploit it each time I work on a challenge.
Markers and Pens
Writing with the Cricut is pretty candy. In case you have the Cricut Explore or the Cricut Explore Air, it comes with an adjunct holder that is used for the scoring device in addition to writing utensils. When you’ve got the Cricut Explore One, you want a unique accessory holder. You can even use this adapter within the blade holder on the Explore and Explore Air to do some hackier stuff (extra on that later).
Cricut has designed its holder to work with its personal pens, in fact, however there are different choices out there! I’m not going to go over all the things, as a result of this awesome weblog submit covers pretty much the whole lot you could be questioning about using non-Cricut pens with the Cricut Explore and Explore Air. A couple notes, although…
Pilot Precise V5 Rollerball Pens
Pilot V5 fine-point pens click on into the adapter properly, however it appears that ProvoCraft added something to the firmware to stop the pens from truly touching the paper in the event you attempt to use them. I found a simple workaround – for any shapes or strains you want drawn, set them to score as an alternative in Design Area. This can decrease the accessory adapter simply far enough for the pen to put in writing reliably on your materials.
Crayola High quality-Level Markers
I’ve found that using a dime and a nickle stacked provides the right shim for these markers (and anything that doesn’t snap into place) so that the height is good.
Software program
Okay, so this one is going to be a separate article. Cricut’s web-based Design Area device is pretty terrible. It’s required for sending your tasks to your Explore machine, but you undoubtedly don’t have to use it for creating issues. i exploit Adobe Illustrator CS6, however there are undoubtedly cheaper options out there – and I’m going to research them for you so you don’t should!
More to return…
The post Tools for ProvoCraft’s Cricut Explore Air – A Better Geek appeared first on Laptop Computer Info.
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embroidery-pro · 2 years
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Setting Up an Embroidery room
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Whether you reclaim a room after children have moved out, only have a corner of the family room, or you're custom designing your dream studio, there are some things that all sewers need to make their work go smoothly. Electricity You need power in several areas of your sewing room—for machines, iron, task lighting and computers. Dedicated circuits are ideal, and a surge protector is essential to avoid damaging equipment. Try to avoid stretching extension cords across traffic areas to avoid accidents. Wall mounted power strips allow you to plug in multiple things in a single area. Consult an electrician to add outlets if needed, and explain what will be plugged into them. .Lighting Good lighting is important to sewing success. Not only do you need general room lighting, but task lighting as well. Tabletop lights work well to illuminate individual work areas for sewing machines, sergers and computers. Daylight bulbs allow for true-color viewing. Cutting Table Depending on the room size and orientation, try to find space for a dedicated cutting area. If you're a garment sewer, it should be large enough to allow for a folded 60" fabric width; if you're a quilter, a 45" fabric width is sufficient; length depends on the available space. The height of the cutting surface is key to comfort. It should be 3-4" below your elbow height for using scissors, and 6-8" below for using a rotary cutter. If you use both, pick a midpoint. A perfect tabletop is a hollow core door from the hardware store, or a padded sheet of plywood. Take advantage of the space underneath by placing it on a chest of drawers or a sturdy shelf pair. Flooring Sewers often disagree about the best flooring options. Some prefer hard-surface flooring like wood, tile or vinyl; others prefer soft-surface flooring like carpeting and rugs. The choice depends on your sewing and cleaning style—pins are easier to find on hard-surface flooring, but carpeting provides warmth if you sew in your bare feet! If you plan to do other related crafts in the same room, consider floor cleaning options. Dyes, paints, glues, etc. are harder to remove from carpeting than most hardsurface floorings. StorageThe biggest concern most sewers have is storage —not only for the burgeoning fabric stash, but for the cadre of notions and tools. It's good to be able to find the things you need. There is no one perfect storage system for sewers—some people prefer plastic tubs for everything, others like to see what they have and don't want it behind any cabinet doors or in boxes. It's important to keep your sewing things clean and neat, as well as away from sunlight which can damage and fade fabrics. If you choose covered storage like tubs and bins, be sure to label them clearly so you know what's inside. The "out of sight, out of mind" saying can cause you to duplicate purchases simply because you can't find something. Computer Station If you're downloading embroidery designs directly to your machine, you'll need space to have a computer (laptop or desktop) near your sewing station, and power for the computer. Even if you don't download designs, your machine may utilize online updates, or you can use your computer to find free patterns, online technique resources, etc.  Embroidery Station Perhaps the most used area of your sewing room is the space with your sewing machine(s) and serger. It's important to have a comfortable chair that's the correct height for your body and sewing surface height. Your chair should allow you to sit at the machine in a straight and upright position, with knees bent at a 90° angle and elbows the same. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor. The ideal height of your machine bed is the distance from your elbow to the floor. If you prefer a sewing machine surface that's tilted, purchase a special mat or stand for this purpose. It supports the machine base at a 10-15° angle to reduce stress on arms and neck. Don't skimp on your sewing chair purchase. Select one with an adjustable height, adjustable back support, arms and a seat with good support for your body and legs. Wheels on the chair allow for easy movement around the room, and from machine to computer to iron, depending on the configuration. Read the full article
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