Today I've put together a few simple tips and hints on sewing with denim. Denim really isn't difficult to work with, all you have to do is to use a bit of common sense. These tips have all worked for me with good results, so hopefully they'll work for you too. Enjoy!
Preparation
- My number one tip is to always, always, ALWAYS pre-wash denim fabric before you start sewing. Pre-washing denim will allow for any shrinkage of the fabric, and will also remove a lot of the dye that comes out on its first wash. It may sound obvious, but initially it's probably safer to wash it separately from other fabrics, unless you want everything blue tinged. Ask me how I know!
- Denim can sometimes hold quite noticeable creases from being washed. Pressing the fabric whilst it's still damp will really help remove them.
- Denim is notoriously prone to fraying, so there's no scrimping on seam finishes I'm afraid. Overlock or zigzag all those pesky seams as you go along, it will be worth it after the first wash, trust me!
Tools for the job
- I always use Denim or Jeans needles, they're stronger, with a sharp point and will make the job much easier. Up until now, I've always used regular thread for sewing denim and it's performed fine. For my current project however, I used Gutermann's Jeans Thread and am now a total convert. It's slightly stronger than standard thread and has a two colour effect which blends right in with blue denim. Magic!
Ways to minimise bulk
- One of the problems you may encounter when sewing with denim are areas of bulk because of the thickness of the fabric. You need to minimise this as much as you can:
- Use a lighter weight fabric such as cotton lawn, for areas of your garment that aren't visible e.g. pockets, internal waistbands, yokes etc. If you choose a contrasting fabric these areas can become design features in their own right.
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| Pockets on Gertie capri pants |
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| Waistband facing on my denim Ginger skirt |
- You don't need to interface areas that need support such as waistbands and buttonholes. Some of you may disagree, but I've never interfaced when sewing with denim as I find the thicker fabric already provides in-built structure.
- Press all darts flat and all seams open unless absolutely necessary. If seams really do have to be pressed in the same direction then grade them. This is done by trimming them into layers so they're not lying right on top of each other.
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| Seams trimmed and graded by size |
Tip for sewing bulky seams
- Take your time and slow down when sewing through thick layers. If you're worried about your needle not being able to cope, then use your hand wheel for difficult/bulky areas.
- One reason needles break is because the foot tilts at an angle when encountering thick layers or seams. An easy way to counteract this is to keep the foot level. To do this, just fold a piece of denim to the same thickness as the seam or hem you need to sew through and position it behind the foot. This will keep the foot level and not put any stress on the needle.
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| See how the foot is forced to tilt at an angle? |
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| Folded fabric behind the foot ensures it stays level |
- When you get to the end of the seam, remember to position the folded denim in front of the foot to prevent the needle angling down again. Easy peasy!
I hope these tips prove useful and if you have any additional gems of your own for sewing with denim, please let me know in the comments section.
We're not finished with denim just yet in this post though. Oh no! To set you up on the road to denim enlightenment, Annie from The Village Haberdashery has very generously offered one of my readers 2.5 metres of this gorgeous striped Railroad Denim by Robert Kauffman. Isn't it fab?! I can really see this as a cute A line skirt worn with coloured tights, or a fitted blouse.
To enter, just leave a comment on this post telling me what you'd make with the Railroad Denim if you won it. You can also get an extra entry if you follow The Village Haberdashery's Daily Stitch blog on Bloglovin'. Just let me know in your comment if you're a new (or existing) follower. The giveaway is open worldwide and closes at midnight GMT on Wednesday 22nd January. The winner will be chosen at random.
Thank you to Annie at The Village Haberdashery for such a generous giveaway and happy sewing with denim everybody! x
Great tips, especially making sure the foot is level, I'm going to use that one.
ReplyDeleteHave you found that your overlocker struggles to finish denim? I was trying to finish my edges and it was skipped stitches all over the shop (but fine on a scrap of similar weight test fabric). Do you use jeans needles in your overlocker too?
And I'd love to win the fabric, I'd make a second pair of jeans! It's hard to find printed/patterened denim.
No, I haven't had any problems overlocking denim, it sounds odd that your machine was skipping stitches too. I did contemplate using denim needles in my overlocker but then decided against it as I only use it to finish seams with and they're only one layer thick. Sorry, that's not much help I'm afraid, x
DeleteThat's OK! It's very odd. I've had to resort to using the overcast stitch on my regular machine instead, and a good dollop of Fray Check.
Deletei am definitely going to use these tips - jeans are on the cards for this year! i didn;t even know jeans thread existed! it's love to win. not sure on the weight of the denim but if you are suggesting a blouse, i'm assuming lightweight? i'd make a shirt dress.
ReplyDeletei follow vilage haberdashery on bloglovin already.
Great tips, thanks :-) I'd make a skirt if I was lucky enough to win the fabric.
ReplyDeleteI love the jeans thread idea, will have to get me some! Thanks for this giveaway and you are right that fabric is perfect for a skirt. Am also a new follower of The Village Haberdashery blog.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, I'll be sure to change up my facings in future.
ReplyDeleteThat stripey denim is so cute, I've been keeping an eye out for a good stripe to use on the Colette Hazel dress. The denim would give it a cute pinafore look to go with coloured tights.
I'm a followers of The Village Haberdashery too :)
Great tips! I would love to make an Archer out of this fabric--it is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI am also a follower of village haberdashery on bloglovin'.
Lovely fabric- I can just see my grandson in some sweet trousers or dungarees, and a matching skirt/dress for his sister!
ReplyDeleteI love sewing with denim. I am going to try the thread you used. Thanks for the giveaway. I would love to win.
ReplyDeleteRailroad denim/skirt pattern? Lovely!! Although I'm partial to engineer's caps made from railroad stripe too...
ReplyDeleteWhilst I would love to say Id make a smart blazer if I won, a skirt is much more likely!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway
These are some nice tips! I'd try to squeeze a shirtwaist dress out of that fabric...
ReplyDeleteOh and I follow the Village Haberdashery on Bloglovin'!
ReplyDeleteI love working with old denim but I've never tried new stuff. I would make an A line skirt for myself and a bag for my daughter with any of the remainder. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteForgot to mention in my last post that I already follow the Village Haberdashery's blog on Bloglovin.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great tips Jane, especially about using a bit of denim rolled up to stop foot tilt! Ooo and also about the specialist denim thread, I must remember that!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to be entered into the giveaway (thanks to both you and the Village Haberdashery for being so generous!). As to what I would make if I won? Well your image of a cute A-line skirt and coloured tights sound fabulous so that would be a big contender. But with 2.5m I would maybe also consider a shirtdress.
And I follow VH on bloglovin too :)
P.S. Forgot to say that I am really looking forward to seeing your finished dress!!!
ReplyDeleteI've never really worked with denim so these are really great tips. I think that fabric would make a fun 40s suit if there is enough otherwise I'd make a pair of wide leg pants.
ReplyDelete-Emily
Emily's Vintage Visions
Denim thread is a genius idea! I've got the Gertie pants on my list for this year so I'll make sure to get some special thread - it'll be my first time sewing denim. I think I'd make a pinafore dress with the striped fabric - for wearing with thick tights and knee high boots! I already follow you and the village - I look forward to seeing your dress.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see a denim skirt. I did see a denim bag when I first started sewing but I had no idea about using a stronger needle or grading seams. I broke a few needles and it looked pretty bad! Please enter me into your competition, I already follow the village haberdashery blog on bloglovin. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAs this fabric is extra wide, I'd use it for a quilt back and add some lovely curvy quilting to contrast with the stripes.
ReplyDeleteI already following the VH blog on Bloglovin.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the Denim tips especially the link to the thread! Thank you also (and Annie) for the chance to with the denim fabric. Depending on the hand I would use it either for a shirt dress or for a skirt for me and matching jeans for my little boy.
ReplyDeleteI'm already a follower of the Village Haberdashery blog.
Clare
I never knew you could get jeans thread....genius! I would make a skirt definitely with the fabric.
ReplyDeleteI follow the village haberdashery blog already
x
Love the tip about grading seam allowances. Makes perfect sense, but I would never have thought of it.
ReplyDelete2,5 metres would make a skirt for me and a dress for my daughter.
And I'm a new follower of the VH blog.
I would make either a pencil skirt or a strapless bustier! Have liked the village haberdashery xx louise wiseman (louslovelylife.weebly.net)
ReplyDeleteThis denim is so cute! I think it would make such a cute pair of skinny jeans!
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower of their blog too :)
Really good tips, I have never used denim before but I would love to and and I have just got Vogue 1247 so I would make one of those!
ReplyDeleteOh, that is so useful. i didn't know that Gutterman made denim thread. Always put off sewing with it because of the bulk. That fabric is lovely though and would make some fabulous 40's style trousers. I have just started follwing VH too.
ReplyDeleteI love reading your blog it is always full of great tips and handy hints. I would make myself a Ginger skirt, the stripes would make a lovely chevron. I don't follow yet but heading straight there!
ReplyDeleteWhat great tips and such a lovely giveaway. If I won I'd make a playsuit with it, it reminds me of beach huts so I could pretend it was summer again!
ReplyDeleteI am an absolute denim fiend! I would use this to make a double denim outfit consisting of a shirt and co-ordinating skirt that can either be worn together or as useful separates. I really would LOVE this! If there was any leftover fabric then I would make my 16 month old some matching jeans! I am a new follower of the 'daily stitch' blog as of today! I would also blog about my makes once completed. Please, please, please pick me! Denim obsessed! X (rillafree@hotmail.com)
ReplyDeleteWow, such good timing for this post as I have 3 pairs of jeans in need of repair!
ReplyDeleteFabulous tips! Particularly the presses foot one.
ReplyDeleteIf I won I'd make a Bellatrix blazer with the denim, the stripe and pattern would be a great twist on the denim jacket!
I follow you both using feedly.
I'd make a sassy pencil skirt to replace the one I haven't fitted into for a long while.
ReplyDeleteI would like a fitted dress made out of this denim, to go with coloured tights? Interesting tips. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteYou've added some really helpful tips here, I will be adding this to my bookmarks on my iPad so I have it for future reference! Thank you so much xx
ReplyDeleteHi there! Would so love to win this!!! I have the most beautiful original 1940s shirt dress that would look fab with this fabric!
ReplyDeleteHi Jane,
ReplyDeletel am yet to try making my own skirts so that is what l would use the denim for. I'm already mentally searching my stash for co-ordinating fabrics to trim the waistband with!
Beth x
i would make skirts for my nieces if i won
ReplyDeleteGreat blog post, thank you! I'd either make myself a tunic dress or use the fabric as a quilt back - it would give a winter quilt a lovely weight to it!
ReplyDeleteOOh conincidentally, I went to the Village Haberdashery for the first time just yesterday and bought the Merchant and Mills Camber Dress - and obviously was tempted by some fabric too! I have just signed up to follow TVH on Bloglovin'.
ReplyDeleteGreat giveaway, and if I won I'd definitely make a straightish, shortish skirt, and if there's a bit left I'd make a bag (NOT to wear together - I don't double denim!)
Thanks for the tips, I hadn't come across the thread before so good to know it exists. I had my first practice with denim before Christmas making a tool roll and really enjoyed it's sturdiness. I bought denim needles and picked up the same tip about leveling the foot with a folded piece of denim from the haberdasher.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great giveaway (especially since I'm doing the Stash Diet!). I'd make a straight skirt and maybe have fun stripe matching for patch pockets. Also a new follower of The Village Haberdashery.
Definitely a skirt! Possibly a Colette Beignet with contrasting buttons? :)
ReplyDeleteJust getting into dressmaking, I'd love to make a shirt-dress with this.
ReplyDeleteI get the daily stitch via bloglovin
ReplyDeleteMaybe it's controversial but I think this would make a fab tote bag (great pattern from noodlehead). With some really perky lining, of course.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the give-away!
Thanks for all the great denim tips - like Laura I'd definitely use this to make a bag or two!!
ReplyDeleteI love me a denim skirt, I made one last year based on the skirt of the Cambie dress, if I won this fabric I would probably do the same as it was my most worn item last summer!
ReplyDeleteHey Jane! I added you to my Feedly last night & so glad I did. These tips are WICKED. Thank you sooo much for bothering - I'm always amazed at the wonderfully community-minded bloggers out there.
ReplyDeleteSo in the spirit of your post I'm currently taping together a Colette Beignet so I guess that'd be a good thing to use denim on! Although my heart desires a denim shirt dress with a full skirt... does that sound weird??
That denim is lovely - I definitely see it as a fitted blazer.
ReplyDeleteI also really like the denim you used on your capri pants - would you mind sharing where you got your fabric from for those?
Great tips! I have also found that using a walking foot when sewing through thick seams makes a bit difference. I have an older Pfaff that has a built-in walking foot, but you can buy these as a separate attachment as well. I've also found that if I serge the cut edges of the fabric before I wash, less wrinkling occurs in the fabric. I have no idea why this is true or even if it is true (could just be that the fabric wasn't going to wrinkle anyway), but I'm sticking to as a superstition at least! If I win the fabric I might try to make a funky princess seam peplum top (depending on the weight of the fabric) where I play around a bit with the direction of the stripes, or I might just whip up a skirt. Who doesn't need another denim skirt??
ReplyDeleteThat denim is lush. If it is soft enough I'd make another Simplicity 2541 skirt C. Then maybe a waistcoat or shorts for wearing with thick tights for girl number 1. Then I'd squeeze out some mouse shoes from the scraps for girl number 2. A handbag would be good too. Thanks
ReplyDeleteIf I were lucky enough to win it I would make my new and favourite pattern of all time. 'Go Anywhere dress' by Sewn. I'd do the main body and sleeves with vertical stripes but the side panels with horizontal stripes. Ooo err squeal! And then I'd send a photo to you. And a brilliant opportunity to try your tips. I love the thread.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for all the wonderful denim advice! I've wanted to tackle using denim for a while, but just never made the jump. Maybe this will be the denim year :) And that striped denim would make a lovely pencil skirt. Ooh, or some Bermuda shorts! Thanks so much for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! Thanks for sharing! :) I like the idea of a denim thread... pretty sure I've seen it somewhere here, will have to look for it :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the lovely generous giveaway! That fabric is cool! I don't normally go for stripes so it would really make me think out of the box :) I could see it in a pencil skirt or capris; it would be fun to do something with a simple silhouette and then play a bit with stripe directions :)
what a fantastic giveaway! I think I would make some trousers - I've not ventured into trousers yet but I'm feeling brave!
ReplyDeleteReally liking your focus on denim at the moment. If I won the fabric I think I would make a pair of cropped trousers that actually fitted my height. I've had a couple of shop bought pairs which would be a few inches below the knee on normal people but on me are more like ankle grazers! š
ReplyDeleteI would like to make a pair of Capri pants. I love that style. And if I position the pattern carefully, a pair of shorts for the fantastic Summer we shall have this year ;0)
ReplyDeleteOMG- Stripy denim? Delish!
ReplyDeleteFantastic and very thorough post, thank you so much Jane! I've got a bit of denim destined to become a skirt in the next few weeks (she says, with a hollow laugh, thinking about how unrealistic her sewing plans for 2014 are), and I will be coming back to this post many times over, I suspect.
Thank you for these! I'm cutting out a denim project tonight and was bemoaning dealing with some of these issues. The foot tilt fix is genius!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips...I would, perhaps, make a skirt as you say. Going to pick up some of that jeans thread! I am not a follower of the VH at this time.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the information. It is really helpful. I would make 2 pair of dungarees for my 1 year old and 2 year old grandaughter's. Jennylarking at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips! I think I would maybe try a BHL Georgia dress? But definitely a skirt would look great in this fabric. ;)
ReplyDeleteOh, and I'm following the Village Haberdashery too
ReplyDeleteVery useful post- I bookmarked it for future use! The giveaway fabric is very pretty- I can easily see a Ginger skirt, or a Maria Denmark skirt or even a Hummingbird skirt with it!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips - thank you! I love the stripy denim - I'd use it to make a skirt, possibly a Grainline Moss. And I've just started following the Village Haberdashery too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips. They are really helpful. I could use a new denim skirt. This fabric would be lovely for it.
ReplyDeleteCan't believe the timing here - I just emailed Annie yesterday with some ideas for the Railroad Denim.....my plans were either for a Made by Rae Washi top (using the extension pack) or Sew Liberated Esme Top. 2.5 m would be very handy!
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm a Daily Stitch follower already!
ReplyDeleteHi - I've just been making some jeans out of heavy denim and my Bernina machine and overlocker are sewing them fine. I have two tips - from some Angela Wolf Youtube videos - use a hammer to compress thick parts, and instead of a piece of scrap fabric to balance the foot, you could use a spare belt loop. Also the 'Jeanius' class on craftsy is great! Totally recommend it.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to make a skirt with the Village Haberdashery fabric - and thanks heaps for the tips and chance to win in a giveaway. :-)
As a novice sewer I really enjoy reading your blog as it's clear, well written, humorous and full of helpful information.. I don't have the confidence to tackle jeans just yet but this fabric would be amazing as blinds and matching cushions in my nephews bedroom. Will keep fingers crossed I'm lucky enough to win this really generous gift :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteIf I won the fabric I would make a skirt and also maybe some sort of jacket.
This would be a lovely shirt dress! So many interesting things you could do with the stripes. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips, I've always been a but nervous about sewing denim. Love the fabric it would make a great blazer.
ReplyDeleteLove this! I haven't owned an awesome denim skirt for years. Maybe I should make one?
ReplyDeleteAnd I am a long time follower of the daily stitch.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, especially about using a swatch of the same fabric to level the foot--I've always just used a folded square of paperboard or cardboard--generally the ones that come with trims wrapped around them--as a makeshift tool. : ) I've looked at that railroad denim, and debated it, and would probably make a pair of skinny thurlows with it.
ReplyDeleteThat is gorgeous fabric! I'd make a long denim skirt - fitted over the hips and bottom, then flaring out a bit. I used to have one just like that, in plain blue denim…
ReplyDeleteoh would love to make a moss skirt with this lovely stripy denim
ReplyDeleteAmazing fabric! I love it! I would make a skirt. A Kelly maybe, or a Moss. Or perhaps a Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteMy fav RTW jeans have finally given up the ghost at the knees after crawling around after my little girl so I think I'd be super adventurous and try to take a copy of them to use with this stripe denim - or maybe I'd chicken out and buy a skinny jeans pattern but it would definitely be jeans for me if I were lucky enough to win it!
ReplyDeleteI love striped denim I would make a skirt or a pair of denim sailor- style jeans. I had a pair years ago and loved them!
ReplyDeleteHi Jane I have been a keen follower of your lovely blog for ages as you give me so much inspiration. I am new to sewing but am making progress - I have never sewn with denim but would love to make two wonderful bags for my gorgeous granddaughter and your giveaway would be a fabulous start to this, I also fancy doing some lovely cushions for the coming summer months (here's is hoping for good weather!). It would be lovely to win.......love your posts Jane, thanks so much'
ReplyDeleteLots of love
Dorothy
:-)xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
crochetknittingsewing.blogspot.com
I would love to make a ginger or beignet skirt with the fabric. I am a new follower of the blog. ps my mailadres is sara_hoste@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteI would make a stripey pinafore.
ReplyDeleteI love your tips. I will really like to try a denim project soon. If I win that fabric I'll make a fun skirt and a denim shirt.
ReplyDeleteA semi-fitted shirt is what I'd make if I won. (I follow via Bloglovin).
ReplyDeleteI'd love to make myself a long denim skirt, I can never find a flattering fit in the shops!
ReplyDeleteI follow the daily stich blog with bloglovin
ReplyDeleteGreat Tips! I would make a bag for my current quilt i'm working on or include the fabric into a quilt.
ReplyDelete24Tangent@gmail.com
Follow on bloglovin'. 24Tangent@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteLong standing reader here :)
ReplyDeleteI love denim and usually have problems with getting rid of old jeans or skirts and need a constant supply! The wee stripes are lovely! 2 metres - would be enough for an Aline skirt AND some shorts, with contrasting facings...oooh, I feel Spring is on its way!
I would make a pair of skinny jeans
ReplyDeletePS. I'm following you on bloglovin
Great post, thanks for all the tips!
ReplyDeleteI would really like to make a tote bag using denim!
I already follow The Daily Stitch on bloglovin too :)
Thanks for the giveaway!
Hi Jane,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips! I'm going to try to take part in the BHL Georgia Dress Sewalong using some black denim and these will definitely come in handy.
Thank you for the giveaway too, I didn't realise that The Village Haberdashery had a blog, but I added them to my bloglovin' (I follow you as well). If I was lucky enough to win that fabric, I think I'd try to make a blazer out of it - could look quite cool and casual!
Capris
ReplyDeleteYour tips are very helpful!! Thanks! If I won this fabric I'd make a vest - I think it would look really sharp! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI am following The Village Haberdashery's Daily Stitch blog via Bloglovin' - thanks!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for these tips. I'm planning on making my own jeans this year and am soaking up every tip I can get. I'd love to win the fabric to make either a pair of capris or a skirt. Or a jacket. Hmmm... Oh, and I follow the Daily Stitch on Bloglovin.
ReplyDeleteOooh! my favorite wide-legged jeans are just starting to bite the dust... but that stripe is calling out for some fantastic details, so maybe a skirt. Hmmm... great tips, thanks! Kimbersew
ReplyDeleteOw hat a brilliant tip about using leader/Enders yo stop the foot tilting - now why hadn't I thought of that?
ReplyDeleteI follow Annie's blog - that's how I found you!
ReplyDeleteThat striped denim is sweet!! I'd probably make a pair of shorts out of them, but lately I've been obsessed with the Tania culottes pattern and that may look really sweet in stripes.
ReplyDeleteThese are really helpful tips. I'm pretty sure I have a package of denim needles i bought a while ago. Now just to get brave enough to get the actual denim!
ReplyDeleteIf I won, I think I would make a Moss skirt with the fabric.
I am also a new follower of The Village Haberdashery!
Great 'top tips'! I've yet to make a pair of jeans - so this gorgeous fabric would be perfect or that. In the meantime - I love the idea of the jeans thread - I think I shall get some of that to play with :)
ReplyDeleteOh Jane thanks for the tips.... sure going to use them.... Oh I will love to enter the giveaway I have purchase the craftsy class Islander jacket and it would be a perfect match...I am a long time follower of you and the Village Haberdashery. Keeping my fingers crossed! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips and thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI would have to make a skirt if I was to win.
I follow on bloglovin
Thanks for all these great tips Jane, and for the giveaway. I'd love to make a Moss mini out of that fabric. I've been following your blog for a long while now.
ReplyDeleteUseful tips Jane, I too am in denim mode ( back to the ad again - red fingernails ?!)
ReplyDeleteSo have it's good to see your tips, and some of the decisions I've made by instinct / laziness are supported by your experience too! ( eg interfacing)
I'd love to win that denim, depending on its weight....I'd make either a dress, maybe a pinafore ( I'm thinking Rooibos) or jeans/ trousers. How I love the stripes!!
And I follow the village haberdashery on bloglovin, should have mentioned that :-)
DeleteThank You SO much for all these tips - very timely! I've used a few, but really appreciated the wrap up before we even look at Jeans June ;) I'd love to be entered into the draw - I'm really liking the thought of a sleeveless tunic dress with pockets - such fun to be had with stripes and yokes etc!!
ReplyDeleteand my tip is to check the spin cycle of your washing machine as if I leave my front leader at MAX, it abrades denim & linen ;( ;(
DeleteNice tips! Thanks so much! That stripey denim looks lovely!
ReplyDeleteGlad I read this before I started on my denim. Thank you for the brilliant tips especially the one about adding extra fabric to level out the presser foot. Genius.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, thanks! The Railroad Denim is gorgeous - I'd probably start by making a knee-length skirt with contrast piping accents for Saturday wear, and maybe whip up a nice sturdy tote bag as well.
ReplyDeleteThanks do much for these tips! I am trying to sew up a denim bag out of very thick denim and it wasn't going so well. These tips would help.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to make a jacket out of the railroad denim. Or a skirt.
Thanks for your tips! I've sewn denim a few times before but I'm still a novice and haven't bothered much with basics like correct needles and thread for my fabric! I'd like to start investing more time and care into my sewing. :) If I won, I think I'd make a simple skirt. The fabric looks beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI also just started following The Village Haberdashery on Bloglovin.
Thanks for the fab tips! If I were lucky enough to win, I'd attempt to make my first piece of clothing with the denim. - An a line skirt for myself.
ReplyDeleteI follow The Village Haberdashery via Bloglovin
ReplyDeleteOh I love it! I think if I had this material I would use it for our second toy box as a seat cover. I've found a supplier who sells foam the exact witdth I need.
ReplyDeleteLovely blog
I could really do with another skirt in my wardrobe, and this fabric would be perfect for one!
ReplyDeleteI love working with denim, it is difficult but the garments are so good-looking in the end! Thanks for the giveaway, I'd make myself a skirt and a bag, if I won.
ReplyDeleteNew follower for the Village Haberdashery blog :)
Mary @ handmadebymaryall.blogspot.com
I've been eyeing up this denim to make troosers for my wee man. Great tips x
ReplyDeleteBeen a follower of you and the vh for a while now
ReplyDeleteOoooh, I'd make a new pair of Junipers. My current pair is made of linen and I won't be able to wear it until next summer!
ReplyDeleteI would make a pair of jeans if I won ...
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance ...
melani
hippolicious at hotmail dot com
Excellent tips, thank you Jane. I would make a pinafore dress if I were to win.
ReplyDeleteDuh, I never thought about folding up fabric instead of using Hump Jumper thing - so simple. Great tip, thank you. If the fabric is lightweight I would like a button up shirt tail dress or new jeans. I love the stripes.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips and perfect timing as I'm about to sew my first pair of jeans! Love the stripe denim-I'd make a pair of sailor style shorts if I won. Just started following here a week ago & I'm a new follower of The Village Haberdashery :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tips - I will most definitely check into getting some of the thread you recommend. I would make a slightly straight skirt with vertical stripes in front and back, and side panels with horizontal stripes - I have a pattern somewhere from an independent designer. Thanks for a chance to win and am happy I found your blog - will read more often. Beth USA
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway Jane - I'd make an A-line skirt (which I know you said too but hey!) as that's a style I know suits me and I love a denim skirt, so useful.
ReplyDeleteAlso I've just started following The Daily Stitch on Bloglovin' and was already a Twitter follower of Village Haberdashery :)
ReplyDeleteI'd make a Moss Mini Skirt with this. It would be perfect!
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower of the Village Haberdashery xox
Thanks for the tips. I already follow Village. Would love to make a Proper Attire skirt with this xXx
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips, Jane :) I'd never sew denim before, I have always been afraid not to ruin the fabric. But I should try soon, it will be fun.
ReplyDeleteI'd make a blazer, if I'm lucky to win.
I must check out that denim thread, it looks miraculous! If I won, I would make the moss mini skirt.
ReplyDeleteI would like to use the fabric for a skirt if I win. Maybe the Ginger skirt. Alternatively, I would make a dress. I started following The Village Haberdashery on Bloglovin' also!
ReplyDeleteAnd also, thank you for all those nice tips!
DeleteThanks for the tips - my next planned make (long overdue, as it was originally going to be a Christmas skirt) is denim, so your post is very timely.
ReplyDeleteI think I would make a Colette Rooibos from the striped denim, with a little contrast piping, maybe.
I am also now following the Village Haberdashery on Bloglovin'.
(ps - If I end up double posting, I apologise, but Wordpress just ate my first comment, and might spit it back out later!)
I've been wanting to give the Railroad denim a try for ages - great giveaway! I'd make a pair of Parsley Pants for my little boy and I'm sure there would be enough left over for a skirt for me. The denim thread looks amazing, thanks for the tip.
ReplyDeleteI'm already a follower of Village Haberdashery, and a new follower here.
Thanks
Great tips - the folded fabric behind the needle trick is great if you're making coats or sewing fold-over waistbands on skirts (I recently had one of those on a woolblend skirt I was making, and that fabric trick saved me breaking a needle!).
ReplyDeleteIf I won I'd make myself a pair of short dungarees, I think they'd be great for our summer weather!
I use a Jean- ma-jig to overcome the problem of the tilting needle. Essentially it is the same as the folded fabric but a bit more permanent :)
ReplyDeleteWould love to make myself a new skirt with the fabric!
I follow the Daily Stitch too.
ReplyDeleteGreat denim tips! I really have to start with putting some fabric behind my foot when sewing thicker fabrics.. I'd make some skinny jeans with this fabric, been wanting to try and make jeans for a while now! I also follow them on bloglovin..
ReplyDeleteBrilliant tips! And that's such cute denim - if I won I'd definitely use it for an A-line skirt with big front patch pockets. Thanks so much for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteOops, forgot to say that I'm now following the Village Haberdashery's blog!
ReplyDeleteThese tips come just in time as I'm planning my first denim skirt atm. The Robert Kaufmann fabric would go nicely as a second skirt; I already got some matching Robert Kaufmann pocket lining I'm dying to use ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm not on bloglovin.
Great tips - and lovely fabric. I'd like to try a denim Ginger... I have the pattern but am rather nervous about tackling my first serious adult clothes pattern!
ReplyDelete(and I follow the Daily Stitch on feedly)
ReplyDeleteLove all the tips! I'm getting all fired up to sew now....I absolutely ADORE this fabric!!! I would love to make Gertie's capri pants (have the pattern upstairs calling to me...) and a pair of shorts for our hot Texas summers. Thanks for the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteOooh that denim looks lovely, and thanks so much for these practical tips! I'd probably make an A-line skirt with the railroad denim, of course with some pretty pocket linings like you used. : )
ReplyDeleteOH, thanks for all the terrific tips, I've bookmarked your page! It's funny because I wear denim ALL the time (jeans) but have yet to sew anything with denim. I think perhaps the thickness and the fact that jeans are not so easy to sew has made my shy away. But, I would love to be able to win some of that gorgeous jean fabric and sew some for myself!! I do already have 2 jeans sewing patterns, one for stretch denim, one for regular jeans twill. (ps, I'm an existing follower on Bloglovin')
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, thank you. I will definitely be coming back to these when I next use denim. I would love to win the denim, I would probably make a skirt. I follow on bloglovin'.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for this Jane, I am about to embark on my sewing denim adventure for the first time in the next few months using the Gertie capris pattern (which I know you've sewn before) - I;m sure the above will be invaluable! If I won this I'd make myself a couple of high waisted pairs of shorts for my trip to Vegas later in the year for the burlesque hall of fame weekend! :D
ReplyDeleteAll good tips! I would love to finally make a Megan Nielsen Kelly skirt with the railroad denim, super cute!
ReplyDeleteLove love the tip about leveling the foot! All good tips as I just got some black stretch denim to make pants. Enjoy your blog - discovered a couple of months ago. The railroad denim would make a great skirt. Or a fitted, sleeveless top. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI 've come to your blog for the first time, via Clipped Curves, and the first look was this gem! Thanks so much for the denim tips, especially the one on dealing with thick seams. I broke three jeans needles on one belt loop the other day - at least now I know why so it does not happed again.
ReplyDeleteOh, and the striped denim fabric would either become a pencil skirt or some capris. I just can't wait for spring!
I would love to make a ginger skirt I think if your could get a chevron effect would be boss
ReplyDeletethanks for the giveaway!
gracemargaretcuningham (at) gmail.com
Thanks for the useful post - I've got a Craftsy class to sew jeans and this will be a great accompaniment to it! I don't think I would make jeans with this though (the stripes might be a bit much!) - a cute little skirt would be perfect - and maybe a bag to match!
ReplyDeleteRebekah
Really useful tips! If I was lucky with the giveaway I'd definitely make a skirt - a really practical everyday one to wear to bits.
ReplyDeleteSO worth reading these hints on how to sew denim! Thank you so much : )
ReplyDeleteAm now following and should I be lucky enough to win the fabric it will be a long line waistcoat, so heres hoping lol
I like the fitted blouse idea!
ReplyDeleteHave pinned this after reading (again) thanks so much for the tips!
ReplyDeleteI am a new follower and very pleased to find your blog. If I was lucky enough to win the fabric I would make a short sleeved shirt for my husband as I have never made anything. I have just today bought a shirt pattern from a charity shop and they would make an ideal couple.
ReplyDeleteI check into your blog all the time I love stripe denim and I would make a skirt to my ideal would be from a 70's pattern roll on summer.
ReplyDeleteI would use the yardage to make a vest and use a scrap of blue suede leather for a contrast collar.
ReplyDeleteA useful set of tips, thank you. The railroad denim is really lovely - I don't know what patttern I'd use, but it would definitely have to be a skirt.
ReplyDeleteI would use it to create a pair of shorts!
ReplyDeleteI think I would try to make a 70s midi skirt if there's enough of it. I watched The Stepford Wives recently and have fallen back in love with the 70s.
ReplyDeleteOOoohhhhh!!!!!!!!!!! This railroad denim really looks wonderful. I would love to make a skinny pencil skirt for me - but I'm afraid the days when I wear them have long gone. Instead, I can see this fabric in a longline waistcoat with a wide cut front that waterfalls over itself, showing off both sides of the fabric. Not sure how I would finish the edge, though.
ReplyDeleteOh what a generous giveaway! I've always sworn off sewing with denim but you're slowly breaking me down with your denim love and tips. lol I think if I won, I'd try to make a pair of capris!
ReplyDeleteI would love to make the Colette Iris Shorts. :-)
ReplyDeleteI have purchased a jeans of Japanese Denim. Before sewing a denim one must know perfectly about this. Your post make me think about this.
ReplyDelete- Denim is notoriously prone to fraying, so there's no scrimping on seam finishes I'm afraid. Overlock or zigzag all those pesky seams as you go along, it will be worth it after the first wash, trust me!all you need to know about sewing machine
ReplyDeleteI would make a shirt dress.
ReplyDelete