Sewing on cards
 

How do you all sew on your cards or scrapbook pages? I've tried using my regular sewing machine but the stitches are really small and tight. I think I've also heard that sewing on paper is not so good for the needle. True or no? Should I adjust the tension or length of stitches or should I not be using my machine at all? Is there a special machine for paper crafters?:confused:

I use my regular sewing machine (a very old Singer) for sewing on my cards and scrap pages. It is hard on the needles, so I have some set aside just for paper (and I have broken some trying to go through too many layers!) I don't have an exact method, I just play with the tension and stitch length on a scrap until it looks the way I want.

I used to use my dress-making sewing machine, I'd just change the needle, and adjust the tension and stitch length on some scrap paper. If you change the needle and keep it for paper, and clean the machine regularly as you normally would you should be OK.
Having said that, I did get one just for cards, but just as much because I could keep it set out in my craft room, whereas I do my sewing downstairs.

I use my every day sewing machine for my cards and scrap pages. I lengthen the stitch size so that you don't get small stiiches that are prone to tearing. If you're worried about your needles change them more often or set aside 1 special needle for paper sewing. I've never had a problem, I just have a base model regular sewing machine. I use a straight stitch or a sig zag mostly.

I bought a sewing machine just for this purpose...it is the Janome Sew Mini. I got it for $35 with free shipping from Hancock Fabrics online. I LOVE IT! Did I say I loved it?? ;) If not, I do!

I don't have to worry about ruining my good machine...and this little devil rocks! I have even used it to sew patches on my girls' scout uniforms! It is a 'real' machine but weighs like 2 pounds. It is made for crafting but can do more. :)

Gina K had tutorials on her blog about it as well.

I'm another person who just uses my regular machine - in fact I can't remember the last time I sewed something other than paper! I do change the needle if I'm going to sew on fabric - paper tends to blunt the needle faster which is fine if you're continuing to sew paper but can snag if you're then trying to sew fabric. Clean out the bobbin chamber pretty regularly so you don't get a build up of fibres in there, use a fairly long stitch and play with the tension if you need to and you're good to go without spending for a new piece of kit.

Have fun!

I think there is an old tutorial about "faux stitching." I don't know how to use a sewing machine, so that's all I can do.

I use the Janome Sew Mini as well. It's the greatest and I agree, I LOVE IT!! I heard about it on Stamp TV and bought it on ebay for around $38 w/free shipping. It only weighs about 5lbs to easy to lift and store when not in use! Makes a great finishing touch to cardmaking

I wanted to show a piece of paper that I stitched up today. I've tried stitching up paper in the past but it's never really looked good. Today I tried adding a layer of interfacing under the paper and it worked very nice. :)

I used the Viking 6000 series which was given to me from my grandma.
SEE:

Looks good. I don't really do much fancy stuff I stick to zig zag and straight.
Once you have the tension right for a slightly slippery cardstock alls good.

I use Sew Easy Tool and sometimes manually poke holes with paper piercer :)