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Other pointers:
- 100% cotton fabric should always be
used for swap blocks unless the hostess has specified otherwise.
- Don't use ribbons, flowers, etc.
for embellishment unless the hostess has given approval for these
items.
- Always wash your fabric before
using it.
- Never use the selvedge edge in your
blocks. It has a tighter weave than the rest of the fabric and will
shrink more causing a puckered look.
 |
Here you can see the
selvedge edge was included in the background of the
block. Please, please DON'T do this. |
E. Is your machine skipping
stitches? How well is it running? If you are having trouble it may
be time for a tune-up, new needles, tension adjustment.
| Skipped Stitches |
 |
| Uneven, skipped
stitches |
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F. Smoking and Swapping
Last but certainly not least. I realize
this is a very controversial thing, but I just want to say a few words
about smoking as it relates to swapping. If you are a smoker, please be
courteous to the people who will receive and take care of your work.
You can do this by refraining from smoking in your sewing area. If you
need to take a smoke break there are many other places in your home
where you can do this and as a result the level of second hand smoke in
your quilt blocks quite possibly could be decreased.
Many people have severe allergies and
it's highly likely that your work will be in the hands of one of those
people. I am one of them. I've never said anything about this before
but I have been sick a couple times after swapping smoke laden blocks.
I have even taken blocks outside to swap them to decrease my exposure to
the smoke.
If you're a smoker, you probably can't
smell it but someone who does not smoke can. You absolutely do have the
right to smoke in your own home. I'll never argue that point. :-)
Just please be considerate when you're making blocks for a swap.
One thing you could also do is take the
blocks outside and mist them with one of the new products that destroy
odors before you package and mail them. If you do this, observe
practical caution and follow label instructions. If you have small
animals that you are concerned about being exposed to the product, make
sure they are not in the same area where you are using the product.
Your fellow swappers and hostesses will
appreciate your kindness. :-)
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