I'm going to make the dj bag that's on grandroyal, but I want to add a clear plastic pocket on one side so i can slip in my colored 7". do you have any tips on sewing plastic? i was thinking i'd just find a clear shower curtain or something. should i use a machine or do it by hand? what kind of thread should i use? is it very difficult? i'm just a beginning sewer.

I sewed myself a funky beach bag this summer with some bright fabric and a plastic lining covering the outside.
Here is what I found.
(BTW- I am not a great seamstress either- this was my first time using plastic and it's way easy).
Walmart or any fabric stores sell those sheets of clear vinyl on large rolls. I think I bought mine for about $2 or less for a yard which was PLENTY.
Got it home and just cut it out to fit my bag. But here is the trick. someone may have a better suggestion for this, but when I would run the plastic through the machine, it would grab the foot pedal and wouldn't budge. My solution!?? I stuck double stick tape all around the base of the machine and under the foot pedal, then stuck tissue paper on the tape. Then my plastic didn't grab the metal foot and slid right through the machine. Yes, it was kind of a pain, but it was way worth it and I love my bag!

pardon my ignorance, but what is grandroyal?

-S

you can also just put a piece of tissue paper over the vinyl, and sew through both layers. then just rip the paper off the seams.

stella

http://www.grandroyal.com is the record company owned by the Beastie Boys with lovely bands like At the Drive-In. They have two features about different crafts on their site. One is how to make a dj bag, and the other is how to make a dog collar.

Thanks for the ideas, guys.

You can also buy teflon coated needles, presser feet and throat plates for your sewing machine. The teflon keeps the metal from sticking to the plastic (also works for vinyl and PVC) Or, I've heard that you can spray a little Pam on the metal parts and that works too. You'll just have to wipe off the platic when you are done.

Record Bag:>http://grandroyal.com/mag/2000/dec/shescrafty/

Tammy has not posted any projects since December. She's busy making movies.

You can use paper clips instead of pins to prevent holes in the plastic. Also try a size 14 ball point needle,long stitches, and 100% poly or cotton-wrapped polyester thread.


Rio