Back last summer, when I began my first smocking class, I realized that I was going to need some "visual help" for the exacting precision required to place the stitches evenly and correctly. Quiltkeemosabe suggested that I borrow her Visual Mate. It worked great, it hangs around the neck, is fairly lightweight, and... the best part: it has it's own light! I'll admit, it took some getting used to, but I am truly happy that I persevered until I became comfortable with it. I returned hers when my husband gave me my own for a birthday gift. Not only was it incredibly valuable for the smocking stitches but there is no way that I would have been able to whip and roll those hem edges on Lucy Ann's christening dress (and have them look half decent) without it! I now slip it over my head every time I sit down to do handwork: appliqué, embroidery, and most recently to do some block de-construction! I carried it with me today to use while Gregory napped and I gave more Chubby Chicks their legs and eyes. I'm certain that I didn't fully appreciate how wonderfully I could see the tiniest detail when my eyes were younger. But, I'm old enough, and wise enough now to shun vanity and use whatever it takes for hand sewing stitches that can hold a candle to those of my younger friends. The stitches are looking good, small and even... and I can see that, up close and clearly!Life is Good!
6 comments:
I have my little hand sewing spot lit up like an airport! Plus I wear a pair of those magnifying reading glasses in front of my bifocals. We do what we need to do.
Hhhhhm, this looks like something I need to add to my arsenal.
I'm very near sighted so don't use my glasses when I hand sew, but even then I can use some help! Great tool.
looks like something I need to add to my list :)
Now that is a cool gadget.
Oh dear... I'm wondering if I should check that out. I was hoping not to...
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