Saturday

Good morning, everyone.  I hope your weather yesterday was like here as it was glorious.  Out of the wind, there was some real warmth in the sun and the breeze made it a great drying day!

Yesterday was so pleasant.

Firstly, I finished off the skirt I was making.  It's nothing special, just four pieces with an elasticated waist, perfect for under a T shirt on those hotter summer days.     However, I think I prefer the shape of a six piece pattern so will look out for one.  Elasticated waists are very comfortable as well as making the sewing up so much easier and, as I don't wear things tucked in, it makes no difference to the look.

Then, rather than tidy up, I got out the manual and investigated some of the things the machine can do.  The manual isn't great on detail, which is a bit frustrating and I'm glad it's not my first machine!
I had a reply from Bernina about some presser feet that are compatible with the version I have with a link, so I went online and was amazed at how many there are and how much they cost; my jaw dropped when I saw how much the walking foot is - and that's something I want to get. 
I have ordered the overlocker one although I discovered that the usual foot is fine for overlocking anyway.  Yes, this lovely machine does a perfectly acceptable form of overlocking, not just a zigzag, which will make life easier in the future.  Maybe I could have a go at a T shirt!

I then had a bit of a brainwave and went onto YouTube and yes, there are a number of instruction videos there, hooray!  I went through one of them and learnt several new things about the basic sewing functions.  Increasingly, I am realising that this machine may be old technology now but it is a seriously good bit of kit!  Thanks so much, Mum.

I needed to clear up a bit ready for tuition which was great; one of those sessions where I feel I made a difference.  I'm not saying my teaching is any better than school teaching, I know it isn't, but there's a big benefit to having that extra time to go over things, teach, practise, explain, listen (very important), ask the right questions to help the student to work it out and see them become independent, while being able to stop mistakes/misconceptions before they become ingrained.  An hour of one-to-one isn't an all-in solution, far from it, but there's no doubt that it can really help.

And my lovely cleaners came and worked their weekly magic, bless them.

All in all, a lovely day.

Today the machine is still out and I want to go through that tuition clip again, using the laptop beside the machine.  I have plenty of bits of fabric so might do some 'examples' of stuff with an attached note of the settings to get that stitch/effect.

Then I have ironing, the usual homey stuff and I'd like to go out for a walk.  I'm nearly out of cheese (perish the thought) so a walk round to Morrisons the long way round will get me some fresh air.

Have a lovely Saturday, whatever your plans.  xx