What is it? – Whether we’re into fashion, quilting, heirloom, home decor or all of the above, there is one constant. Specific techniques apply to each. The more adept we are in that technique to more personal satisfaction we realize for our efforts. The more completely we can achieve our creative intent. It’s that simple and that’s what it’s all about. Enabling creative expression. But sometimes all of the work, and perhaps a little frustration, takes away from the enjoyment of the creative process. Sometimes it’s just too hard. And that’s where all of our specialized sewing notions come in. Each of these tools are designed to enable the techniques so necessary to what we do. And it’s especially important for our youthful sewing practitioners. When we’re learning these new techniques, early success often spells the difference between a lifelong pursuit of the joy of sewing and something entirely different. Something laden with the frustration that ends that pursuit. To assist our youth in their creative quest, Clover has identified certain enabling sewing tools. Beginning with the essentials in the initial “I Sew For Fun” program, we continue to add new tools to further enable the creative potential of the youthful sewist. To the previous program inclusions of measuring tools, marking tools, pins and Wonder Clips, pin caddy, hand sewing needles, Seam Guide, Sew Safe presser foot, Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin, and Retractable Seam Ripper, Clover and Nancy Zieman Productions has added the Protect ‘n Grip Thimble, Flexible Thimble Set, Point 2 Point Turner and the Roll ‘n Press.
What does it do? The I Sew For Fun Program continues to evolve to support the increasing skill sets of our youthful sewists.
Here’s the new lineup:
Protect ‘n Grip Thimble – A comfortable and functional thimble is an absolute necessity for any hand work that we do. The Protect ‘n Grip Thimble is constructed with a metal tip and “vented” rubber sides to hold it in place on the finger. The metal tip has dimples to hold the needle head in place and a pronounced ridge around the top to provide extra holding should it be required. The vented rubber sides allow circulation to keep the finger cool. Its compact size and weight makes it a natural for detail work like hand quilting or appliqué.
Flexible Thimble Set – The set comes with two flexible thimbles, one for the fore finger and one for the thumb. Working in tandem, these two thimbles represent a departure from traditional thimble use. Instead of just pushing the sewing needle into the fabric, these thimbles are used to insert and then pull the sewing needle through the layers of fabric. They are also pretty handy when a little extra friction is required when manipulating fabric at the sewing machine as in free motion quilting.
Point 2 Point Turner – This is a single tool that can accommodate the turning requirements for the entire spectrum of quilting, fashion, heirloom, home decor and craft sewing. Every edge, point and dimension of the Point 2 Point Turner has a designed purpose. The rounded edge also functions as a hera marker while the spatula shaped end works well in finger pressing. This is truly a multi-function tool necessary to any sewing kit.
Roll ‘n Press – This is the ultimate non-heat based pressing tool. Fitted with a comfortable handle we can apply pressure with ease. The roller has beveled edges to allow us to press the desired area of fabric without leaving unwanted creases. In addition to ease of use, a primary benefit of the Roll ‘n Press is that it presses without pulling, stretching or distorting our fabric.
How do I share it? The I Sew For Fun program is truly an amazing set of tools that continues to evolve to enable the developing skill sets of the youthful sewist. Every item is functional and is an asset to any sewing kit. Put the new items (or all of them) on display with the appropriate step outs showing their individual utility. Everyone will get the message. Put a kit together in a clear plastic box with a bow and ribbon to suggest the kit as a gift option. It’s important to know that these are quality sewing tools that will be of great use long into the future. They are not toys for kids. They are toys for those who love to sew. Have fun! We made them for you.
