X-Kilt #1 started

[Moski]

A few days ago I started my first X-kilt since i didn't get a kilt for Christmas.
I'm using a brown twill labeled "potting soil" from Jo-Ann's and I'm just getting the hem done. had fits getting the right tension. The bobbin thread kept flipping multiple threads that got jammed under the stitch plate. Figured the bobbin wasn't wound tight enough. Making a measuring template to mark the pleats tonight.

[Kiltman]

Sounds like you need to get the sewing machine checked out by the pros. They can reset it to work properly and then they are normally willing to give you some instruction on how to maintain it properly. A good tool is worth the expense and the effort. This is all from personal experience.

[Aldisimo]

Congratulations on starting your project! If you're sure that you're using your machine correctly, you probably should get it a tune-up and cleaning/re-oiling before you mess up your work. Sewing machines can leave blobs of oil, pull/puncture threads in the fabric and leave holes, and worse--some things that you'll have major headaches trying to fix.

Please post pictures along the way so we can share in the excitement!

[meinfs]

Hey Moski, good luck and looking forward to seeing the pics...

[Alan H]

If the sewing machine hasn't bgeen used in a decade or something, then yeah, might be worth taking it to a shop and getting it checked out.

[oldfool]

Make sure the needle is not bent. My machine does that when the needle is only slightly bent and it will bend when I try to sew too many layers of fabric.

[sydnie7]

Make sure the needle is not bent. My machine does that when the needle is only slightly bent and it will bend when I try to sew too many layers of fabric.

I haven't personally tried this yet, but I have been told by several reputable sources that it's best to use a ball-point needle when sewing through multiple layers. Theory is that the ball-point slides through the holes in the weave vs. the pointy needle insisting on punching its way through threads. So far, my machine hasn't complained about anything I can jam under the feeder foot but I mean to give this a try if I can ever remember to buy the needles. They are readily available, typically sold for use with knit fabrics.

[Moski]

Thanks for the support folks. I just spent 7hrs at the machine today after four hours last night. I have to build the waistband and match up the velcro. I think something funky happened with the under-apron pleat but it seems to be working out. I cant wait to see detailed pictures of another build. So far I have 12hrs into it.

[Moski]

After going at it more obsessively as the days passed I finished #1.








Finished the belt loops and cargo pockets today and she's a headin' for the wash.

[meinfs]

Fantastic! Congratulations on your first. A job very well done.

After going at it more obsessively as the days passed I finished #1.
...

Finished the belt loops and cargo pockets today and she's a headin' for the wash.