The unsung heroes of dressmaker’s table
If you came into my workroom, you might wonder about the presence of somewhat dangerous items seemingly unrelated to my trade and holding no decorative value. Those items are my tools as much as needles and scissors are. Let me tell you about some of them. Clear nail polish. It can stop a run in the pantyhose, and if you want to save a grosgrain or satin ribbon’s edge from unraveling, apply the polish in careful brush dabs at the cut edges, just as you would Fray Check (TM) by Dritz, which is also found on my table. Caution: both are toxic. Matches. Not only can they light a candle that could scorch-finish ribbon edges (do not try in combination with the nail polish!), a single unlit match can help producing a perfect button shank every time! Caution: flammable. An awl. From preparing holes for a hand stitch on stiff leather, to marking a paper pattern piece, to starting a cut for a butthole, this handy tool is irreplaceable, so I have 2! Caution: sharp. Rubbing alcohol and/...