Name That Pleat!

Tom's Sons International Pleating, a family-owned company in the heart of New York City's Garment District that specializes in pleating fabrics, has made learning about pleating fun! They’ve launched a new YouTube channel that explores current fashion trends through the lens of pleating. Each video breaks down how to identify specific pleat types by name and offers insights into why a designer might choose that particular style—whether for movement, structure, or visual impact.

They are only on Episode 7, and the videos are quick and engaging. You can subscribe to the channel to be notified of when new episodes are uploaded. 

They've also written a book on pleating. Pleating: Fundamentals for Fashion Design has over 300 photos of pleated fashions and shows you how, by understanding the types of pleats and their requirements in terms of fabrics, grain, bias, and other factors, you can improve your design's creation process, budget planning, and "wow" factor.

Fairfax Seams Sew Fun Neighborhood Group Presents Kitchen Sewing!

 

We will meet Friday, March 7th, at Noon.  

NOTE THE LOCATION CHANGE:  
SULLY GOVERNMENT CENTER
4900 STONECROFT BLVD
CHANTILLY VA 20151

This is the same location as the Annual Meeting about two years ago.  We will meet in the smaller, Frank Room which is adjacent to the larger room. 

Melissa will give a presentation on sewing for the kitchen, including the Quilt-As-You-Go Method. If you have examples of either topic, please bring them to share.

Let's catch up with each other and share our makes, so please plan to attend if you can.

 Zoom will not be available at this meeting.

Here are some ideas for the upcoming meeting!

• Quilted Potholder
• Fat Quarter Tea Towels
• KitchenAid Mixer Cover
• Toaster Cover
• Cloth Napkins
• Apron
• Bowl Cozy
• Casserole Hot Pad

Patterns you might have on hand include aprons, appliance covers, and curtains. Many are available for free online, or you can search Simplicity.com for inspiration.

There are a lot of reasons why you might want to think about sewing for your kitchen. Melissa will discuss how sewing for the kitchen can be fun and rewarding. One of the methods she will cover is QAYG and its applicability to a variety of benefits, including: 

1. Customization: You can create kitchen items that perfectly match your style and the dimensions of your kitchen. From aprons to oven mitts, to placemats and table runners, you can ensure everything fits and looks just right.

2. Cost-Effective: Making your own kitchen items can be more affordable than buying them, especially if you use upcycled fabrics or repurpose old clothing.

3. Personal Touch: Handmade items add a unique, personal touch to your kitchen, making it feel more homey and inviting. Plus, they make great, thoughtful gifts for family and friends.

4. Durability: You can choose high-quality materials and sturdy construction methods, ensuring your kitchen items last longer than many store-bought alternatives.

5. Functionality: You can customize the features of your kitchen items to suit your needs. For instance, you could add extra pockets to an apron or make potholders with better heat resistance.

6. Sustainability: By creating your own kitchen items, you can opt for eco-friendly materials and reduce waste by repurposing old fabrics.

No matter what, sewing has you covered. Like these kitchen chaps, aka unisex apron with detachable potholders.

Spring Fling Kentucky Derby Style!

It is time to celebrate, ASG Northern Virginia and it's a Kentucky Derby-style celebration! 

Spring Fling is scheduled for Saturday, April 30, from 9:45 am to 2:00 pm, at the Springfield Country Club at 8301 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA, Springfield VA 22152, featuring:

• Seated Breakfast 
• Parade of Projects 
• Derby Hat Contest and 
• A Featured Speaker 

Attached is your flyer and registration form for this year's Spring Fling. Cost is $45 per person after April 8th, and the deadline is April 18th. If you want to pay online, go to GroupWorks.

It's time to plan that party dress and make your Derby hat! 

We are pleased to announce our featured speaker, Mari de Jesus. Mari has her own YouTube channel and is a YouTube sewing influencer with 3.3K subscribers! Also, she is the creator/owner of Inspired Leather, a company that specializes in fine leather goods. 

Mari will offer an insider’s look into starting and sustaining a YouTube channel and what to expect after you begin. Additionally, she will share her favorite charity, Dress a Girl, and inspire us to participate. 

Start your Derby Hat Today! Watch Adrienne's video and make it from scratch---or not! Use a purchased hat and embellish! Wild and crazy are our watch words!

You still have time to order your hat-making supplies! Check out this tutorial for using supplies from local stores!