My son has persuaded me to make him some piped seat cushions for a bench. I think I’m happy about the construction side of it. Just wondering if others with experience could advise on what to use in the bobbin on a domestic machine? It seems to me that the stitching will only be as strong as the weakest thread and I can’t put upholstery type thread in the bobbin. I’m wondering about nylon? Any thoughts appreciated. Thanks!

After a good steaming, I would skip the clapper on the trickiest part and show it’s who’s boss with a heavy duty hammer. Also, as the final stitches in the troublesome areas reach the needle, you could try turning the wheel by hand, making sure the needle is about to pierce exactly where you want it to go. Good luck - I feel your pain!

You definitely won’t want to go back to being without one, once you get used to it. One thing I would add, which I don’t  think anyone has mentioned, is the value of having Differential Feed. I seem to have mine turned on slightly for most knit seams. (If you stitch a sample seam and put your work on the table, it should lie flat. If the edge is wavy, it has stretched and you should have used Diff Feed). There are many other uses, but that is an important one. Go for it and enjoy!

@Stitchalot @Ploshkin  ... That is beautiful, Is it stitched on felt ??
and how are the edges done?

Thanks Imi. It’s all quilting cotton. After stitching the front, the backing is placed on top - comprising two folded pieces overlapping in the middle. Then after stitching and trimming it’s turned through. No hand sewing whatsoever!

I’m excited to report that the postman brought me a little package from Gloucestershire today. I’m being restrained and have it put aside to open on the appointed day! Thank you to my swappee! 

I’m new to this - newbie  question!  I’m curious to know if the person we send to is different from the person we receive from, or are we exchanging with a partner?

I will give it a go - count me in too pls.

My recommendation is to attach linings with a longish (3.5mm?) stitch. More importantly, set the stitch to a very slight zig-zag so the stitch looks more wobbly than a zig-zag. This will allow everything to drop as it hangs. It’s also a good idea to use a walking foot if you have one.