How do you pull a thread through the narrow eye of a needle? Here are some useful tips for sewing by hand or with a sewing machine.

 

You can store rolls of different coloured twine in an egg carton.
An empty container from a clinical thermometer is an ideal container for sewing needles.
Seal the buttons on the holes with a little nail polish to make the buttons last longer.
If a needle falls on the floor, it is easier to pick it up with a magnet.
Fix a patch with a little glue before sewing it on so that it does not slip when sewing. The glue comes out when you wash it.
If the cuffs are worn out, sew elastic on the inside so that the cuffs are tight again.
If the sleeves of children's clothing have become too short, they can be lengthened by sewing on wristbands. The cuffs of socks are good for this.
A double layered old T-shirt sewn together makes a beautiful flannel.
If the sheet is too short, simply sew a piece of muslin to the end that is tucked under the mattress.

Sewing by hand

Threading twine into the eye of the needle is easier if you strengthen the end of the thread with a little hairspray.
For buttons with four holes, sew the holes on in pairs and use a new thread for each pair. If one thread comes loose, there will be a second one left to hold the button.
If you do not have a thimble at hand, you can wrap plasters around the fingertips to protect them.
For gloves, put a clothes peg in the finger of the glove that needs mending.

Sewing with the sewing machine

The needles of the sewing machine can be sharpened by placing sandpaper under them so that the needles have to pierce through the sandpaper.
Rub the hem with a bar of soap to make the needle go through the fabric more easily.
Place the sewing machine on a rubber or foam pad to absorb the vibrations of the machine when sewing and to prevent the machine from slipping.
Stick a piece of an old mouse pad on the foot pedal of the sewing machine so that the foot does not slip.
After oiling the sewing machine, make a few stitches on blotting paper so that the fabrics are not stained by the oil.