Making Connections

Where can I find a supplier for CHIZIMI THREAD?

Vicki R.

Thread and More sells Chizimi Shrink-It polyester thread. This unique thread sews like regular thread, but when exposed to steam heat, it shrinks approximately 30% to add texture and dimension to fabric. The result is similar to a shirred or puckered look. Chizimi is available in white and sold on 330 yard spools. For more information or to order, visit threadandmore.com.

I’m making a corset for a Renaissance Festival and would like a source for STEEL BONING.

Jamesha K.

Greenberg & Hammer offers an extensive selection of corset boning that includes spiral steel and white spring steel boning. This boning is stocked in 1/4″ and 1/2″ widths and is sold by the piece, dozen or gross in precut lengths from 2″ to 20″ long. It’s also sold in continuous lengths by the pound. For more information or to order, call (800) 955-5135 or (212) 246-2835, or visit greenberg-hammer.com.

Do you know how I can order PATTERNS DESIGNED BY ANNA ZAPP?

Marcia K.

Anna Zapp has two classic figure-flattering patterns. The Kimono 2003 with front-edge banding and elbow-length sleeves can be made long or short. The Camisole and Sampan Pants 2004 features a reversible top with 1″-wide straps and elastic-waist pants with side darts and a slight flare at the lower edge. For more information and pricing, visit annazappdesigns.com. To order the patterns, e-mail [email protected], or call (303) 665-3426.

Where can I find RIBBON with JUDAIC DESIGNS AND MOTIFS?

Dee Y.

1-800-DREIDELCRAFTS specializes in sewing and craft supplies for Jewish holidays and celebrations. The company’s ribbon selection features designs specific to Hanukkah, Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs, as well as many variations of the Star of David and “Mazel Tov” that are suitable for any occasion. For more information, visit 1800dreidelcrafts.com, or call (800) 373-4335.

I’d like to make a BEAN BAG but am having trouble finding the FILLING.

Jim R.

Bean Bag City stocks tiny polystyrene pellets for filling bean bag chairs. The unique, irregular shape of these fire-retardant beads provides good support and helps the chair retain its shape. The bean bag filling is available in two sizes: Select the 2′ bag to fluff up or revitalize an old chair; use the 11′ bag to fill a new chair. Call (800) 800-6050 or (937) 862-7781 to order, or visit beanbagcity.com.

Do you have a source for a KIT TO MAKE A PLEATER BOARD?

Denise D.

Wildly Wonderful Wearables manufactures two pleater board kits. The Pleat ‘N Go! creates 1/2″ pleats with a 1/4″ return. The Fan ‘N Go! creates fan-shaped pleats. Each kit includes the upper and base fabrics, stabilizer, heat-proof poly slating, fusing material and illustrated instructions. To order, visit wwwearables.com, or call (877) 884-2787 or (972) 240-0187.

Do you have a mail-order source for TAPESTRY FABRIC?

Lisa P.

The Rain Shed stocks tapestry fabric in a wide range of designs, including nature and landscape scenes, animal and wildlife prints, floral motifs, geometrics and more. The fabric is 54″- to 57″-wide and more than 80 patterns are currently available. For more information, visit therainshed.com, or call (541) 753-8900.

Where can I find building plans for a SEWING MACHINE/SERGER CABINET?

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware sells plans for building a deluxe sewing center. This cabinet, designed for holding a sewing machine and serger, has two fold-out countertops and six storage drawers. Also available is a lift to raise and lower the sewing machine, and a hardware kit that includes hinges, catches and knobs. For more information, visit rockler.com, or call (800) 279-4441.