Register



Yes! I want expert
sewing tips, fabric
reviews, and more.
Renew subscription
Give a Gift

Sewing Basics
Garment Construction
Design
Fabric
Fitting
Embellishments
Embroidery
Tools & Supplies
Home Decoration
Quilting
Video Tips
Online Extras
Threads eLetter


In the Current Issue
Advertiser Index
Sewing Corner
Magazine Index
Contact the Staff
Author Guidelines
Buy Back Issues
Order Slipcases
Threads eLetter

An Online Extra to Threads magazine

Twin-Needle Reference Chart

Here's how to get almost a dozen different effects on fabrics of all sorts, using a twin needle and some ingenuity

by Carol Laflin Ahles
Open or download the PDF file below. (Requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print PDF files.)
ShawlCollarBlouse
In the June/July 2003 issue of Threads (#107), I outline the basics of using a twin needle to create texture and surface design on fabric. Here, I've compiled a chart to help you choose the appropriate needle, presser foot, and machine settings to achieve a variety of effects, from tucks to topstitching to shadow embroidery. Once you give these techniques a try, I think you'll be amazed at what you can do with something as simple as a twin needle -- and delighted with this sewing-machine-based approach to embellishment.

Vest by Kayla Kennington Vest by Judy Neukam
Velvet vest by Kayla Kennington (detail below)
Silk vest by Judy Neukam
(detail below)
Vest by Kayla Kennington (detail) Vest by Judy Neukam
Twin needle effects aren't always identical. These two vests, by Kayla Kennington and Judy Neukam, demonstrate the range of surface techniques possible with a twin needle. Both are pieced and sewn with parallel rows of twin needle stitching, but Kayla's textured velvet collage looks almost corrugated or chenillelike due to the pintuck effect, while Judy's garment, made from lightweight silks, retains a smooth, unified surface.

Carol Laflin Ahles is the author of Fine Machine Sewing.

Photos: Judy Neukam

An Online Extra to Threads #107
Purchase back issues