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Member since 11/21/06
Posts: 214
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Posted on: 6/12/08 1:07 PM ET
Does such a thing exist?

I was sewing my hem last night, and the fact that I have measure first, pin the hem depth I want, THEN iron is annoying. Is there an rulers made of fabric (or anything) that can withstand the iron heat so I can measure and iron at the same time?

In one of the asian craftbooks I own, the book mentioned that is a good tool to have but I can't find any!
  
Member since 4/8/02
Posts: 8572
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Posted on: 6/12/08 1:49 PM ET
I think this is what you want. ETA I forgot to say that I've had one for years, and it is a handy thing to have around.
-- Edited on 6/12/08 1:51 PM --
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“Never try to teach a pig to sing; it wastes your time and it annoys the pig.” -Robert Heinlein and Ann's father. Thanks for the reminder, Ann.

Where are we going, and what am I doing in this handbasket?

Matthew 25:40 (New International Version)
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Member since 11/21/06
Posts: 214
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Posted on: 6/12/08 4:07 PM ET
Thanks! I will go look at that today!

Incidentally, I found the asian product I was looking for: Clover Iron Ruler

I can't read Japanese but that basically says that the rule can be used under iron :)) Unfortunately, I don't think that product is marketed outside of Japan so I don't think I can buy it. I'm tempted to buy it through one of the Japanese sites but I don't know how to read them :(
-- Edited on 6/12/08 4:08 PM --
  
Member since 3/19/04
Posts: 2557
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Posted on: 6/13/08 9:33 AM ET
Instead of a ruler, you can make strips from manila folders (or similar heavy paper) that are the as wide as you want the hem. I have strips that are 1" and 1.25" wide, and that's how wide most of my hems are now. To use them, you just fold up the hem over the strip, until the edges match, and press. They last a long time - several years.

You can also make a strip that is wider than the hem, and draw lines on it at the correct depth. Then you just fold up the edge to match the line. This works well for turning under 1/4" or 1/2".

Here's both methods, in action.

  
W
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W
Member since 8/22/02
Posts: 83
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Posted on: 6/13/08 10:23 AM ET
In reply to rfsews
I totally agree with you! I just posted a similar thread!
  
Member since 4/8/02
Posts: 2683
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Posted on: 6/13/08 1:46 PM ET
The nicest part of using a wide manila envelope is that it also prevents iron marks that show through to the front side of the garment.
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JanieV
  
Member since 11/21/06
Posts: 214
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Posted on: 6/13/08 2:43 PM ET
In reply to W
Thanks for pointing out your thread!

I checked the Hem Gauge at Hancocks - it's $13.99 and comes with a warning that it may get too hot when used with an iron. I really like the manila method so I think I'm going to try to make one for myself out of heavy interfacing.

I think the Japanese "Iron Ruler" is printed on interfacing?? I am thinking of putting muslin fusible interfacing then just draw the lines myself

Seeing Japanese notions makes me want to visit Japan. I heard there is one giant craft store (7 stories high) right next to a major subway station in Tokyo!
  
Member since 2/5/06
Posts: 1374
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Posted on: 6/13/08 6:30 PM ET
In reply to Karla Kizer
Quote: Karla Kizer
I think this is what you want. ETA I forgot to say that I've had one for years, and it is a handy thing to have around.
-- Edited on 6/12/08 1:51 PM --

I use this same one, it's wonderful.
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Bernina 740, 700, and 430 -- Babylock BLCS, and Ovation -- APQS Millennium -- Vintage Singers 401a, 403, 404, 421g, 301, 15-90, 201-2
  
Member since 3/9/07
Posts: 1481
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Posted on: 6/13/08 8:24 PM ET
In reply to CJ Tinkle
I too use the same metal hem gauge but I bought two, because those little suckers get boiling hot and quickly burn your fingertips. So I alternate for each pass (or section) with the iron. Nevertheless, occasionally, I still have to run to the faucet to run my fingers under the cold water. So, be aware. They're highly useful and highly hazardous. --Lily

(Of course, I should mention that I tend to press on "high torque" mode with lots of steam. So some of my minor injuries might be due to my pressing method.)
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Lily
  
Member since 7/13/07
Posts: 6482
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Posted on: 6/13/08 9:47 PM ET
In reply to lilyofthevalley
Quote: lilyofthevalley
(Of course, I should mention that I tend to press on "high torque" mode with lots of steam. So some of my minor injuries might be due to my pressing method.)

Isn't that how you're supposed to do it?
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Paula

"In Seattle you haven't had enough coffee until you can thread a sewing machine while it's running."
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Visit my blog at www.sewconfused.blogspot.com
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