Ask Sara 1.16.18

[@TheTippytee]

Hi Sara, I was so blessed to get a heavy duty Singer sewing machine, for a gift from my kids. I love it and it Sew’s anything I have tried to make like a hot knife through butter. I have made several quilts, and made my great grandchildren (13) Christmas stockings, now I want to move on to make some of your bags. I m one of those people that looks at her fabric (which is not cheap anymore) and my patterns and just very timid about making that first cut. That’s where i am today. I’ve got or have on order all the supplies I need. So I can start anytime now, but that first cut into my beautiful fabric gives me hives. Will continue this story hopefully in the very near future, may even send pictures. Love your tutorials and your instructions are clear and you make it look so easy. I’ve watched some of them twice. I can’t wait to start, but--oh that first cut ......

[@randie1735]

Hi Sara, I'm so glad you keep these videos! I just bought a Juki 2010 (the pandemic has been very difficult on Bernina for maintenance and repairs) and I knew I could count on you for helpful hints and tips. I can't wait to get my bag game going!

[@debrabrooks1790]

I recently purchased the Juki TL-18QVP which is very similar to the TL-2010Q. I could not for the life of me use the auto-needle threader until I saw this video. Thank you for taking the time to demo this feature. I did it!

[@adamcain4603]

Just found your channel I am, probably one of the only man on your channel maybe not. I am into leather working and find sewing tutorials a good teaching aid. I used to hand sew all my projects with a saddle stitch. It was becoming to time consuming so I bought Juki 1541s industrial machine and set up for leather working.

[@faithgreene1867]

Love your teaching groups, Faith W in N.C. I have a Juki DX2000 QVP, Love It. I also have a TL-18QVP, I also have a New Home for 30 Years, It still work great all. I have Singer and I own a Model DB De Luxe Clone from the 1940's. Work great. I have been sewing quilts for 2 years now, A Friend took me to Quilt show and I have been loving quilting since then. TKS, Faith

[@spyderquilt9783]

What a great thing you did for your daughter... putting her right in front of mom's machine! I think if more people gave a child the real thing right from the beginning, the child would be better served. We underestimate our children so much. When I taught my daughter how to drive --- I taught her in my big Dodge Durango. No toys for her! She learned just fine and passed her test the first time! Good for you Sara, and better for your daughter!

[@SuperBettyboop23]

I love the knee lift because it keeps your hands from having to let go of your project makes it easier

[@FFPages]

i am glad i ran across the sew sweetness website and these helpful tip videos. right now i have a HD Brother for my bag making, but having some push back with some of the thicknesses. on my list is to get the Juki.

[@angieallen4884]

I did not catch this live but will say I have a Kenmore and a Brother. I am not able to use my Kenmore as it was damaged by me 😕 and cannot be repaired. I miss it like crazy. I replaced it with a Brother; I am not really in love with it. I am looking to get a Juki as I saw it first on a Donna Jordan tutorial and was very impressed with how it sewed for her. You have really helped me move closer to that decision. It is a huge investment but I think will really be worth it. Thank you for this great information.

[@lisesheeba4156]

I’m a “wanna be “ Bag Lady…hahaha. I made 3…i like the cross body…so nice to have 2 free hands to shop, and i’m 80 and don t forget my bag, somewhere….haha…i discovered i liked the sew interfacing foam… Love all your tips…

[@veemcg3682]

Joining you from Northern Ireland. Enjoying your videos. I'm using a Singer sewing machine that I've had for 30+ years - straight stitch and zigzag and reverse. I love hand embroidery so don't miss having lots of fancy stitches.

[@marjoriedavidson9323]

My newest machine is TL 2000 QI. I FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS MACHINE THE FIRST TIME I USED IT. LOVE THAT IT IS SO QUIET.

[@TGBTGAlways]

I had a Bernina 160 QE and it needed a new circuit board and is unrepairable 😢so I have a Janome HD9 on layaway. It stitches 1600 stitches per minute and is also a straight stitch machine. I was going to go with the Juki 2010 TL but decided on the Janome. I know I will love the Janome💞 I’m a quilter and would like to start bag making. I also plan to purchase the Juki HZL DX5 for garment sewing. I have the Brother 4000D black edition for embroidery that is very nice! I hate to get rid of my Bernina it’s in such good condition so I still have it. I loved your video and will subscribe 🥰 Have a very happy and prosperous New Year 2023!🎉

[@loribarnes5678]

You have to use the knee lift, it's like having another hand... I have had a knee lift for over 15 years and LOVE it!

[@gms5997]

Hi, Sara ~ I have the same machine as you and I have used the knee lever when I'm sewing a really bulky seam. It lifts the presser foot up higher than with just the back lever, so it's really useful!

[@pattyknox517]

I have one to love my just got mine about 2 weeks ago live it so much

[@thecrazycatlady84]

I use the knee lift on my Juki TL2200 QVP mini & my Juki HZL-F600, it really frees up my hands to more efficiently move through a project. I also have a Bernina 1030, a Janome DC2050, and my grandmothers old Singer… I may be a machine hoarder 😂

[@N.A.R1980]

I have the tl2200mini. My first s.w was singer 8082 to toshiba to janome hd3k. When i received the mini i fall in love with it. N understand why most sewist love the knee lift and thread cutter. 👍🏻❤

[@kimberlyboothby2389]

You can lift the foot into a higher position if you use the knee lift. It makes it easier to get bulky items under (or out from under) the foot. It takes some getting used to, since I have never had a knee lift before, but I absolutely love the knee lift.

[@nancyatgraceandpeacequilti4480]

Thanks, Sara! So glad to hear all the Minikins vids will all be out by the end of January. I'm joining from Minneapolis. I sew on a Bernina 1090. My daughter sews next to me on a Bernina Virtuosa 153QE. I also have my first machine, a portable Stella Elna, great for travel.

[@BuildAQuilt]

Hi Sara- Although I don't use Juki for my personal machine, when I work in costume design and alterations we use Juki machines. They are real powerhouses. I don't think anyone could go wrong if they purchased a home machine.

[@carolbechtel6492]

I have a Bernina 930 I bought in 1983. Carol Bechtel, in Idaho, USA, I’m looking at juki and janome to update my work horse. Why do u have to oil it so much?

[@bettyprescott6097]

Carol Bechtel never let your 930 go. I bought another Bernina a few years ago, it is really nice but not the machine the 930 is.

[@BuildAQuilt]

I have a Singer Heavy Duty for bags costumes,etc. It works like a charm. I also have a couple of Singers for patchwork and decorative sewing. Babylock for long arm and a Singer Superb EM200 food machine embroidery. I never thought I'd have more than one machine. 😊 I had a general straight stitch from Kenmore from age 5 to 35. Its in the closet now, but it still works.

[@marjowag8806]

I have a Janome HD3000. It does Not handle thick bag seam layers. But I did buy the Juki model you have based on this video. I am unboxing it this week.

[@amendez6358]

I have a knee lifter on my machine and it's AWESOME especially when I'm working with alot of layers when quilting

[@grannyhend]

I have a Juki DX7. Just got it last summer. Love it so far. Had a Janome for 30 years, no complaints, just wanted to try something new. I bought aJuki Mo 654DE serger yesterday. I think I wish I had got a self threader. Janome is a great brand, never had a problem, but the Juki is great too. When my kids were growing up I sewed all their clothes on a Kenmore. It was a great machine 40 years ago.

[@martykilroy]

My first sewing machine was an old Singer Featherweight that my mom got me when I went off to college in 1970. It only did straight stitch and would sew through everything.

[@Erika-qp1ng]

Hi Sarah I'm Erika from NY and always look forward to all your videos. Love my knee lift it makes quilting so much easier.

[@SuperBettyboop23]

I am a bag lady and I’m proud about it! 👍🏼

[@gwenmadeline54]

I have a 2020 Babylock Tempo, a 15 year old Husqvarna Mega Quilter(all metal and heavy), and a 1945 Canadian made Singer Featherweight. The Babylock has the best needle threader as I just push a button down and it has a ton of stitches. My Husqvarna is straight stitch and I LOVE it as it is sooo fast, I can just sew and never need a starter piece. I do free motion quilting on it. I just got my Featherlight so I haven’t used it yet.

[@gwenmadeline54]

Oh. And I a, looking at a Pfaff 720

[@agb6330]

I also have the Juki TL2010 and love it! I!!! I’m a home sewer, quilts, pillows and currently getting ready to do a sundress. I had gone to a quilt show in Lancaster 5 years ago and test drove every brand of machine. I knew I wanted to try the Juki because of a blog I had read “Sewing Machine Adultery”. Can’t find the blog anymore but the blogger mentioned trying her mother-in-laws Juki. If I need a zigzag or other stitches I also have a vintage Kenmore. Try the knee lift, you’ll wonder why you waited so long ;0)

[@SewNaturalDane]

Thanks for referring me to this video. I have all Brother machines: BrotherPS2500 (over 10yrs old, but a workhorse), BrotherSE400 and Brother1034d serger

[@terryivey5374]

Big Juki fan here ! I use the f600 for quilting. The to 2010 is on my wish list. Also use the Juki MO 1000 serger. The air threading helps me . I would say try a knee lift. Also when making bags, I recommend a riser. There are some sturdy metal ones and makes life easier :) My treasures also include a 1951 Singer Featherweight 221 and a 1953 Singer 301a. Embroidery are Brother pe7400 and Singer quartet 6000. Began sewing as a child and actually learned on the 301 my Mother had. There is a Janome quilting machine that is a workhorse.It was my go to before I found Juki. My sewing projects range from garments, dolls, bags ,wallets quilts and everything in between :) I do have some issue finding zippers for my bags. Been interested in the more decorative styles.

[@tracyhastings]

Saskatchewan, Canada - keeping warm while watching you! I use an Elna 520 and so far I haven't had any issues sewing bags. I will using cork and repurposed leather for my next bag, so I will see how it goes. I would loooovee to have a Juki likes yours. It's on my list and I'm saving my pennies!

[@riverunner9978]

I love the juki. The thread cutter is best!

[@cathyserafinowicz7525]

I have a Pfaff Grand Quilter,very similar to your machine.I also have a Bernina 830 for embroidery and Bernina 820 for sewing.Amazing machines all three.Definitely start using knee lift,you'll love it.Hands free turning,fab!

[@Kimcheegirlee]

Laurel, Maryland. Thank you for doing these videos! They are great!

[@semco72057]

I have a Singer 2277 model and have not used it yet. I am still waiting to get some supplies ordered for my sewing projects.

[@arachne4757]

I'd be LOST without my knee lift! I highly recommend it.

[@GemmaWeirs]

My machine is a Viking Sapphire 965Q. It can sew up to 3 layers of leather or canvas (haven't personally tested this yet), but I've sewn through several layers of quilting cotton, interfacing and a zipper without trouble, except for the foot that I was using - it kept slipping. I recently purchased a walking foot for my machine which seems to help with that.

[@mplsbetty]

I missed the live feed, but wanted to respond to a few questions - minneapolis, Mn; new sewist and my first machine is a babylock presto - love it so far!! Grew up with a lemon machine in our house and think that’s part of why I never continued even though I had interest . Of course, all the online resources now really helps!

[@tcenell]

Bag lady of course

[@BeatlesFanSonia]

I was born and reared in the Chicago area. I retired and moved to Arizona! I’m still trying to gather enough courage to make my first bag! I have a singer quantum stylist 9960 and a White 834DW serger.

[@julieverschage3160]

I am lost with out my knee lift, I love it. I love your patterns as well thank you

[@heartkey61]

I'm a bag lady from NY I have an old Elgin, brother SQ9185 and a singer quantum stylist 9960 which I use the most.

[@stephiepeterson]

Love how you are showing the comments on screen for us!

[@rebawasswass3716]

I have a JukiDX7, which I love! And I also have a Bernina that I inherited that is just wonderful but about ten years old. I love them both.

[@mandarinfox1813]

I have a Bernina 1120. I’ve used it since 1985 and it works for clothing and bags!

[@veronicawilliams6809]

Say you guys a really great prefabrication is brown paper bags. I’m a costumer and did a lot of hats, and the brown paper work wonderful it also press well for that’s is a fact.

[@Sharon-pb7so]

My every day machine is a Juki Exceed F600. I have several vintage machines including 3 treadles, a Featherweight and a couple of red eye Singer 66, a black 301, and a 201. I have some older Kenmores and a vintage Pfaff. I think I have 17 machines.

[@deenster808]

Hi Sharon! I just saw your comment and wanted to know how you are liking your F600. I am trying to decide between the TL2010Q and the F600. They are priced pretty evenly, and only recently started to know about the F600....which does look awesome. Anyway.....any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!

[@kaylaing9595]

My first machin was an old Singer treadle machine that the previous owner had installed a motor on. It only did a straight stitch, used the long bobbins, and it only cost me $25.00, but it would sew anything.

[@lenoreguajardo7531]

I am a bag lady....you can find them all over my house....and I cannot refuse any bag that strikes my fancy...I also love to make them as well. I have a Janome 1600P straight sew....Janome 15000, which is also an embroidery machine with hundreds of sewing motifs...and I have a Bernina Artista 730. I have a petal sewing machine and a portable one as well.

[@LivingFULLSick]

I'm a beginning bag lady!!! What beginners machine (kinda inexpensive) do you suggest recommend?? I love your videos!!

[@lyndarella1316]

I have 3 Janomes 1 Kenmore 2 Treadle a serger and a feather weight. Love them all.

[@zenamorgan1754]

Hi there, I a little late to the meeting. I’ve be sewing for almost 20 years and as sewing machines go, my first sewing machine was a quilt and craft baby lock sewing machine it was wonderful but it was so small that it would often sew off the table. Then I had a Husqvarna Viking Sapphire, ( I loved it so much I had gotten 4 more ) I currently have a Brother PE150 Embroidery Machine for embroidering quote labels for my quilting, plus I also have a Brother Dream creator vq2400 and a vintage Morse sewing machine ( which I’m selling). I started sewing curtains and pillows. Quilt have also been a passion from me too. But, bag making is amazing. I’ve sewn 20-30 in various fabrics ,even leather. When it comes to bag making, the possibility is endless.

[@LadyBNatural]

I have a Babylock , Bernina, and Singer

[@susansmith7436]

My primary machine is a Pfaff 1475CD from 1990 and 2 Brother combination sewing/embroidery machines - the ULT (early 90s) and also a recently-new-to-me Dream Machine that is about 5 years old.

[@stephiepeterson]

I have multiple machines. I have a little Bernina I got at your retreat. I use it for bag making. I have a Viking ruby for piecing. A Janome also for piecing. Featherweight too. Would love to try a Juki.

[@terrijozink9976]

Hi Sara- I have a Juki DX7. I love it. I use the knee lift. Now that I am use to it, I can't see how I can sew without it. It's sooooo convenient. I had to sew on another machine the other day and I kept moving my knee to lift the foot and it wasn't on this machine, I missed it terribly. I think you would love it if you just got used to it. It saves alot of motion.

[@monicapharo2330]

Hi Sara, I just found your channel and really am enjoying your teaching style. I have several machines. In order of acquisition... 1989 Bernina 910, Brother CX310LauraAshley, Bernina 600 (vintage 1962), Bernina 1008, Elna Plana (vintage 1958-63), Baby Lock Jazz. I’m still ISO the ideal machine for sit down free motion quilting. All of my machines are able to do this, but none of them fulfill my wishlist of criteria (8” or > throat space, speed regulation, needle down option, jumbo bobbin). I am looking into industrial Juki machines now to see if I can fulfill this.

[@stephiepeterson]

I love my knee lifter. Takes a while to get used to, but when you do you will wonder how you lived without it!

[@tamarajones2009]

Do you have a preference of the two machines? And why do you prefer one over the other?

[@barbarayannatta9558]

Hello Sara. Watching one of your videos you mention two pressure feet that you purchased for your Juki that are your favorites -most often used. Can you please tell me which feet these are. I just purchased the Juki TL 2020 & it did not come with a Teflon foot which I hear works great with vinyl & cork.

[@kaylaing9595]

I have a Bernina 930 (the old one I've had for 38 years), a Bernina 440 QE, and I just recently purchased a Baby Lock Crescendo.

[@carlagnadt1676]

I missed your live video this time I was there for the last one, I wanted to share that my first sewing machine was a sears Kenmore I loved it and wasn't willing to give it up even when it wanted to I sewed my first child's baby blanket on it and lots of bags and garments..I just got a new sewing machine a Singer Quantum 9066 I love it! I would love to have a Juki but it is more than I wanted to spend at this time.

[@deb1710]

I love my knee lift, just started using and great for piecing.

[@KristianaW]

Hi Sara from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺 Love watching your show and tutorials. Just a question in regards to the 2 Juki machines - which one out of the 2 you own would you consider better?

[@micheleinacharles-hazellem1968]

I own a Juki.... a 1st time sewer home practicing mercy this is interesting

[@jimhovencamp4487]

I have the Juki TL-2010Q for quilting and A Juki HZL-DX 7 for garments and decorative sewing. Both are awesome.

[@katesterling8915]

Sorry I can't make the live chat but always watch you later. Thank you for taking time to do these tutorials etc. Btw I'm from the uk. ⭐️

[@marleneday2984]

Are you able to sew thru leather and vinyl with this machine?

[@janicebadeau]

Hi, Sara -- I just set up my Juki TL-2010Q this weekend! Yay! I just had a question and I can't seem to find the answer online! The knee lift bar. I think I'm going to love this feature! The question is -- when you press on it, it just lifts the foot and lowers it but it's not supposed to lock it in the up position right? Like the way you use your lever foot lift in the back of the machine -- how that locks up when you lift it -- using the knee lift is not supposed to do that, right? Mine does not -- it doesn't lock up -- just wanted to make sure that I have that working correctly. So it lifts but, if I release the knee lift, it drops down onto the plate of the machine -- it doesn't stay up -- geez, I hope I've explained this well enough! Thank you!!

[@evelynbaezlindecamp2074]

I love the knee lift on my Babylock Ellisimo II. It's helpful.

[@martykilroy]

I have a Janome 8900 and a Janome S5. I also have an old Bernina Artista and a little Singer for carrying around.

[@monicah2924]

New subscriber, just discovered your channel as I’m looking to get a new machine. I currently have a brother HD371, have lots of problems with skipped stitches 😒. Would you recommend this one, I mostly sew though multiple layers of fleece. I have a vintage treadle machine but have to re-learn how to use it. Thank you in advance

[@vangelfairy]

Several sewing machines...Singer treadle over 100 years old, Pfaff 7570, Juki 2000qi, Singer futura, Brother, Singer 500L

[@dianejohanson98]

I have the newer Juki Qvp Mini version of your machine and love it. Sews great. I’ve had mine for a year now. The only thing I don’t care for is oiling it. How do you know when to oil it and how much. I’ve been told different ways, so I don’t know what is right. I also have a Computerized Brother PC3000 that I’ve had about 15 years and a Brother Serger. On the Juki, I need to get used to the knee lift though and I love, love the thread cutter! I do wish the Juki had zigzag too.

[@susanmcarpenter1564]

I live in Australia and I have a Janome 9900 and the knee lifter is a definite for extra lift

[@lindaalbert8404]

I have a Juki like yours and also Janome Horizon 8900, Janome Platium for travel. I have a Viking Ruby for embroidery . Also have a Janome serger.

[@My3Dogs4Me]

Hi Sara... Could you please tell me where you got your teflon foot for your juki TL2010Q.. i just purchased the machine and having problems finding the teflon foot. Also, do you think that you need the needle plate with the bigger whole for making the bags or is the needle plate on the machine ok. Thank you so much

[@dmcc100able]

Hi from Ireland I'm gone crazy making your handbags

[@margaret-mary499]

I just got the juki 2200mini last week. Love it. What thread do you use.

[@spyderquilt9783]

I have a Janome Memory Craft 9900 - 4 years old and (knock wood) no problems. It has an embroidery unit - but I have never used it. This machine is wonderful and has made thousands of items for my Etsy shop. I just wish the feed dogs were more aggressive when you start sewing off the edge. I usually drop the foot 1/2" from the edge, sew a few stitches, and reverse to the edge - lift up the foot, and place it where I started. The thread cutter is sooooo slow. I need another machine for my shop, and I'd like to stay in the Janome line, but I am open to looking for another brand. I like the Juki, but I shift back and forth from straight sewing to zig-zag stitching.

[@emmaway7]

I am definitely a baglady, but working into quilts and clothing slowly.

[@lisabird1363]

I mostly use my singer featherweight but also have a Pfaff

[@jancronkite5571]

Purchased my Kenmore model 1914 42 years ago. Purchased this model because it ca go through 3 layers of denim.

[@KylieMenaghJohnson]

Hi Sara. I just bought a Juki TL2010q for quilting. I would LOVE a travel bag pattern for it. Hint hint. . I've also got a singer quantum stylist, a janome new home (my first machine from 2001), and a gorgeous turquoise White. And a Singer serger/coverstitch.

[@sandythomas9622]

I have a Juki Seger, a Juki F600, and the prototype for the 2010Q. LOVE my Jukis.

[@cathyserafinowicz7525]

Hi Sara,Love your tutorials.Cathy from Norfolk UK 😊

[@GemmaWeirs]

I have a Viking Sapphire, which is okay but since my model is a quilter's machine, the stitches on the back isn't as neat as the stitches on the front. It will sew smaller bags and pouches, and it will handle up to 8 or 9 mixed layers of fabric and interfacing, and it can handle up to 3 layers of leather (no interfacing). But I'm looking to buy a machine like your for bag making.

[@marjoriedavidson9323]

Hi Sara, what type / size thread do you use for bag making on Juki 2000?

[@mariansinger9003]

Singer Featherweight, vintage Singer, 1960’s Morse made by Toyota, Janome Skyline S7 and Janome 4300 qdc

[@claudiaann5023]

I have a Bernina 790 embroidery + a Bernina B 560 that I use for classes but was wanting to start making Purses - Bags was thinking about getting a Juki but not sure which one any recommendations? was thinking about the TL2010 or the N1181 but Jess uses the DNU 1541S Which one should I get?

[@jaquijean2619]

I have a singer legacy embroidery machine which I love and a brother computerised machine, also I inherited my dads brother machine which still works perfectly. I’m in the uk

[@NANCYMAKELA]

Hi from Florida, I have a Bernette Chicago 7, Kenmore , Brother and Singer. I have a Janome coverstitch and rex blind hemmer.

[@corinaromero9967]

Does this machine have the pin between the feed dogs to keep layers together

[@DianaHarveyClark]

I have a bernina 880 plus--juki mo1000 serger, a couple vintage machines. I am looking for a machine for top stitching blue jeans. How will this machine do with using 30 wt. thread? Can you use the heavy wt. thread in the bobbin?

[@eileenknits1976]

Thanks for letting me know the machine you use, I bought a second hand Brother cs6000i Loved it so I bough another and someone sent me one, it is s work horse I made a jeans quilt it was 6 layers so I am very happy with them. Also bough a Baby Lock Jazz I’m still learning Thanks again

[@sherrybuskirk6312]

Hi. Curious about your experience with the bl jazz.. I've been considering one but not finding very much info from actual users. Im a quilter.

[@cinnie2543]

I have a Bernina with the knee lift. I really miss it when I'm traveling with my little Project Runway Brother.

[@sherryejohnson1860]

Ok here goes. 1 Viking husqvarna #1+, Juki TL2010Q, 4 babylock embroidery sewing machines, 1 Bernini 180, 1 antique new home, 2 featherweights, singer treadle machine, 1 singer Godzilla, 2 sergers, 1 Gammill 24 quilting machine. I think I got them all and believe it I use them all.

[@melissiadjohnson8399]

My first was a Montgomery Wards back when I was 18 yrs old, I'm 54 now, and my niece is still using it. I wanted a newer machine that had more stitches, like decorative.

[@doloresriggle5372]

I have a knee lift and I use it periodically, I have a Brother Dream Machine