Tales from the clamshell cushion

For a relatively quick and easy project, my Clamshell cushion taught me a couple of small lessons today.

ta da!

First, there was the stupid mistake.

Because I have used fusible webbing on the clamshells, rather than pinning the clamshells to the backing fabric you iron them on row by row so they 'stay put' whilst sewing the curves - simple! 

But there is an overhang, see?

overhangs

I can definitely recommend the sticking power of Lite Steam-A-Seam 2, I fused the whole thing to the ironing board! I had to cut it off, so now I have a tea towel with a couple of bits of Washi firmly stuck to it. Needless to say, after the first row, I carefully trimmed off all overhanging fusible webbing!

Second, I had an "Ah-Ha" moment.

In one of her tutorials, Rachel talks about how to sew a 1/4" curved seam and how the point where the needle peirces the fabric should be 1/4" from the fabric edge, which could mean the the fabric edge isn't flush with the edge of the presser foot - still with me? This all seems - and is - so straight forward, the needle entry point is the 1/4" seam allowance. But previously I've been guilty of constantly stopping, checking, lifting the presser foot and pivoting rather than gently pivoting the fabric as I sew. Phew, that was one long explanation!!

Well today it clicked, I seemed to find my curved sewing groove!!

blue wonky curve

There were a few times when I got a bit too sure of myself, "yeah, yeah, this is easy peasy......whoops!" and made a mess, each time it happened was on a solid so it shows up more, typical!!

It's been a great little project. 

I can honestly say I've learnt something....."the needle entry point is the seam allowance, not the presser foot edge". 

And, I used scraps and stash fabric, I already had the cushion inner so it didn't cost anymore money, which after my recent spending spree is a good thing.

Sarah x

I am not sponsored by any manufacturer or supplier, I only use fabrics and patterns I like and suppliers that provide excellent service. All photos are taken by me and all opinions in my blog are entirely my own based on my personal experience.