Happy 2016 everybody! We recently shared
this link on our
Facebook page and it kinda went nuts. Seems there are more that a few of us (*raises hand*) who’ve been doing it the wrong way in…well…forever. Here’s to a new year filled with more efficient unpicking! (original video source
here)
I had no idea that was how you should you the seam unpicker. It takes the fear out of making mistakes!
I wouldn't recommend this on light fabrics. I tried once after the video went around and all it did was tear my seam lines. If you look in the video it looks like home dec fabrics are being used. I would be interested to hear if others have more success.
I like tension on the fabric and seam when I rip a seam open so I often use a spring clamp of some sort to anchor a section of the project, rip up, move the clamp, etc. Fine fabrics need the tension or they will move about. Some folks will sue the needle and presser foot of the sewing machine. I have to start doing this again, it has been decades. Back when I was in college –1962-1967 — I used a single edged razor blade.
I have always done it this way. However I agree with Sue there are different techniques for different fabrics. Wish I had that sharp tool though.
This is one way of using a seam ripper (which is what that tool is usually called in the US). Of course, you wouldn't do that with a knit or something like a voile. I agree with her statement about replacing old tools. I replaced an old ripper with one of the Clover ergonomic ones a few years ago – it's really sharp and makes so much difference.
Hi from Melbourne! My sister who lives in the US sent me one of these seam rippers as a gift back in the 1980s. It is a joy to use and still sharp. Didn't know about this technique though so will check it out. Victoria
I am embarassed to say that my seam rippers were my late mothers', therefore, they are over 20 years old! I guess I have some shopping to do…