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Member since 7/27/06
Posts: 57
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Posted on: 3/17/08 12:08 PM ET
Hi Everyone,
I am using some slippery fabric for a project and would like to stick the layers together before I start sewing (to avoid any shifting). I've heard of people using Steam-a-Seam for this purpose, but I just happen to have some Stitch Witchery which I have never used and wonder if I can use this instead of Steam-a-Seam, so are they interchangeable? what's the difference?

  
Member since 9/29/02
Posts: 3237
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Posted on: 3/17/08 1:11 PM ET
I'm not sure that either one of these is what you need for what I think you want to do. If you want something to temporarily keep things together, then use Wonder Tape or a Basting tape. Both Stitch Witchery and Steam a Seam are for permanent fusing of fabric. F'rinstance, if you were inserting a zipper in polarfleece, Wondertape is your friend; if you want to fuse a seam in place, use the fusibles. HTH
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Patti

R-r-r-ripping my way to fitting success
  
Member since 5/22/06
Posts: 3084
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Posted on: 3/17/08 1:38 PM ET
I agree about using Wondertape rather than Steam a Seam or Stitch Witchery to hold a seam in place before stitching.

I use Steam a Seam 2 on knit hems to hold them in place and provide a little support before coverstitching. It is the lightweight version of Steam a Seam and is permanent. Also, Stitch Witchery is good for permanent fusing in projects where some stiffness won't be a problem, and so probably wouldn't be a good choice for a seam. I've also noticed that some sewers like to use a spray adhesive or fabric glue stick to hold a seam in place, but I haven't done that myself.
  
Member since 11/30/04
Posts: 6459
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Posted on: 3/17/08 4:01 PM ET
Agreeing with the other, but adding I was taught that Stitch Witchery was more to cover up your boo-boos. Like if you accidentally were clipping a curve and snipped over the seam allowance into the garment. Steam a Seam was for hems or things like that.
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Big 4 Pattern size 12, RTW bottom: 6, RTW jacket 8, RTW top (no size fits me well!)
Measurements: 34 HB/36 FB (34C bra)/27.5/36 (and working hard to keep it that way.)
Machines: Sewing: Elna 760, vintage Kenmore Model 33 (1967), Janome Gem Gold 3, Singer Model 99, Singer 221/Featherweight, Bernina 1630. Sergers: Babylock Enlighten and Babylock Ovation. Embroidery Only: Janome 300E. Embroidery/Sewing Combo: Brother Dream machine. Straight Stitch: Janome 1600P.
Certified Palmer/Pletsch Pants Fitting Instructor
Blog: 21stcenturydiy.blogspot.com
  
Member since 6/28/03
Posts: 1053
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Posted on: 3/17/08 5:47 PM ET
Ditto to what has been said above. Also, unless stitch witchery has changed in the past few years, it is dry and not sticky before you iron it. Steam a seam is sticky before ironing so it will lightly hold a hem in place while you iron it down.
Another solution to slippery fabric is to spray starch your yardage and let it dry. This gives the fabric a temporary "bite" and it won't slide around as much.
  
Member since 7/27/06
Posts: 57
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Posted on: 3/18/08 2:35 PM ET
Thank you ladies for your replies! I'll go buy some wondertape and give it a try.
  
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Member since 7/21/06
Posts: 3642
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Posted on: 3/18/08 4:25 PM ET
In reply to jess12
OMG. I recently discovered this stuff. It is the greatest thing in the world for zipper installation! It's also ben helpful in attaching ribbon trim. Have Fun!
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Cindy Lou, no more than 2
"Sew, Esmerelda! Sew like the Wind!" -Martin Short, The Three Amigos
"When inspiration calls, you don't send it to voicemail." --Will I Am.
  
Member since 9/14/02
Posts: 2707
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Posted on: 3/18/08 8:18 PM ET
In reply to cindy-lou
I can't put in a zipper without Wondertape, period.
  
Member since 1/22/06
Posts: 1183
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Posted on: 3/22/08 4:39 PM ET
From my experience the SW works and the SAS doesn't. I have never had any luck getting SAS to stay fused.
Both should create a permanent bond, Wondertape is temporary and the greatest invention in the world for *basting* zippers.
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Formerly sew*itch
  
Member since 6/28/03
Posts: 1053
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Posted on: 3/22/08 7:25 PM ET
In reply to Big Dog
Sorry the SAS didn't work for you. I have had some in the past that got sort of dried out and lost its stickiness and it didn't work as well. Since then I store mine in zip lock bags so it stays "fresh".
  
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