Super-Quick Circle Skirt and New Elastic Bodkins
My excitement has been building as I’ve awaited to launch of my new line of bodkin tools with Clover. The wait is over! I’m pleased to introduce you to the Flex ‘n Glide Bodkin, the Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin, and the Elastic Lock Set! These three useful new sewing notions work well independently or together.
Flex ‘n Glide Bodkin
The Flex ‘n Glide Bodkin is a long flexible bodkin featuring an elongated “eye” with grippers. The elongated eye accommodates ribbons and trims up to 1-1/2″ wide. The “grippers” hold trims and elastic in place while pulling through the casing. The handy length and flexibility allow for a smooth passage—even along curves.
The Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin is my new go-to bodkin for casings that are 3/4″ and larger. The clip provides a firm hold on elastic, ribbon, trims, and cording, for pulling through casings with ease. The exceptional flexibility ensures a smooth passage along straight and curvy areas.
Elastic Lock Set
The Elastic Lock Set includes the Elastic Lock and Flexible Bodkin. The Elastic Lock firmly holds elastic or trim ends and prevents the end from slipping into the casing. The Elastic Lock is also ideal for securing multiple rows of elastic. The Flexible Bodkin features a 1″ eye with grippers.
Super-Quick Circle Skirt
Here’s a super-quick circle skirt project to showcase just one of the many uses of Clover’s new Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin and Elastic Lock Set.
For this project, we’ve selected McCall’s pattern M6994 and a textured knit fabric.
- Stitch front and back, right sides together, at side seams using your serger or your conventional sewing machine set for a wobble stitch. A wobble stitch is a narrow zigzag (.5 width and 2.5 length) stitch. This ever-so-slight zigzag provides a little stretch in the seam while looking like a straight seam from the right side.
- Pin waistband sections, right sides together.
- Stitch sides with a wobble stitch, leaving a 1-1/2″ opening at one side.
- Press seams open.
- Fold waistband, wrong sides together, and pin or baste.
- Pin waistband to skirt, right sides together, and stitch.
- Insert one end of the elastic into Clover’s Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin. Clip the Elastic Lock Set to the opposite end of the elastic.
- Pull elastic through the casing using the pointed end of the bodkin.
Note from Nancy: Create a bulk-free elastic seam by zigzagging elastic ends to a swatch of firmly woven fabric. Cut away extra fabric.
- Hem skirt using your favorite method. Or for a more casual look, no hem is needed if the fabric is a knit. If you’ve serged the seams, be sure to pull the serger tails into the seam and add a drop of seam sealant.
Now is your chance to win one of the three new bodkin tools, Flex ‘n Glide Bodkin, the Clip ‘n Glide Bodkin, and the Elastic Lock Set, by leaving a comment telling us how much time you usually spend on applying garment waistbands. THREE winners will be selected randomly and announced on June 6.
Bye for now,
Dianne Pfouts
I probably spend about 15 minutes to put elastic in a casing. Maybe longer as I use large safety pins to do it. I could certainly use one of these tools!
Beth
These are really cool tools. Finally something to use other than a big safety pins. It is a struggle to finish a waistband the way I do. Hoping to see these in person soon.
Lynda A.
I’ve sewn many elastic waist skirts, shorts, and pants using the metal bodkins or a very large safety pin to feed the elastic thru the casing. The main problem I have encountered it the elastic twisting. I am looking forward to this new tool to help eliminate this problem. Thanks for the instructions in using these new bodkins!
S Lore
more time now that I have little granddaughters to sew clothes for like my grandmother did for me.
Gail
The time varies. If the project is simple, and the casing is wide, it goes quickly. But sometimes it takes longer because I’m using a safety pin that is too bulky for the casing, and the elastic twists easily. These look like useful tools!
Elaine
The time it takes me depends on if…A) the pin I have on the elastic does actually hold…B) said pin isn’t too large/small… C) I don’t pull the elastic through… D) the elastic, after making it through those challenges, is twisted! So anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour or so. 🙂 Looks like all these problems may be avoided with these brilliant tools!
Barbara J
It depends on the type of fabric used and the width of the elastic. There can also be a hiccup when trying to pass through an intersecting seam! These new tools look great. Thanks so much for the opportunity to win one.
Joy
The time depends on how long it takes to find the darn safety pin I need to pull the elastic through! These tools would certainly make the job easier.
Leslie
I usually spend a fair amount of time fiddling, since I use a large safety pin. I’ve had the pin come open, I’ve had it rip the elastic or get stuck. So annoying!! I didn’t even know these bodkin things existed!
Adrena Johnson
I am a newbie and have not done this yet. But I am working on my first dress and I have to use the pin method today. I had seen these in a sewing book and forgot all about them. Wish I had once since the elastic is 1/4 I anticipate it will take a while to do.
Terri B
Depending on the type of waistband I spend an average of 45 minutes. Even with elastic, the fumbling and fiddling with getting the elastic through the casing correctly is a chore. Can’t wait to find the new tools in the store. I especially like the clip that works with the end of the elastic / ribbon!
Linda F.
Can be time consuming, as I usually use a safety pin. Often have problems with the elastic twisting in the casing. Would love to try one of these new tools!
Nancy Gross
I can’t tell you how many times that safety pin supposedly holding the end of the elastic has come through the casing and then I end up having to fish both ends of the elastic through casing. It is so irritating! I can’t believe no one had invented something like these years ago, but I’m sure glad that you have now. They should make life so much easier now. Thank you
Sheila powers
I just watched an episode on Sewing with Nancy where she did a demo using a shuttle. So naturally I had to order one. Now this looks even easier. Guess I will be using the Visa card again. Thanks Nancy. I love your shows, website, FB page etc. We talk about you at our quilter guild sewing Saturdays.
Adrian Deanhardt
This can always be tedious. I feel I can’t have too many helping aids.
Marlene Norton
TOO LONG!
I see everything EXCEPT a button to buy the set. I’m especially interest in the lock.
Loretta Headrick
I would estimate somewhere between 20 and 30 minutes to apply the band and pull the elastic through with the old safety pin technique–both to pull through one end while anchoring the other. Your new tool looks like it will be a delight to use after almost fifty years of waistband applications.
JK
If all goes well, inserting elastic is a breeze. However, that doesn’t happen often — usually end up fishing the opened safety pin out of the casing and untwisting the elastic.
Susan McBean
I have long used the old style bodkin. The one that has teeth and a slider “clamp”…that almost certainly comes unclamped about 3/4 way through ! Have started using a safety pin again and that is tedious. The new items all look great, especially the lock…wonder why that was never thought of before.:) Thanks for previewing for us.
Elizabeth Kuntz
I’ve always hated adding elastic because it gives me trouble. These new aids are on my to buy list!
Patsy Sweetra
Threading elastic in casings has always been the bane of my sewing existence! I would so love these tools!
Glenda
Loosing elastic has happened so many times, I just avoid making garments that require it. Look forward to the new time savers.
eginter
I have made skirts and slacks,shorts and etc using that elastic methodfor yrs.it is great thanks for sharing for everyone. I do things for easy and THINK others ,may do the same or I do not sharebecause it may not be cricket!
Brenda Bush
It depends on what I’m making but it’s usually 15 minutes minimum. If the elastic pulls out of my metal bodkin with a clamp, which it usually does, who knows how long it takes depending on how many times this happens. I’d love a bodkin that pulls it through the first time every time!
Ellen
It takes me forever to thread anything through a casing due to arthritic hands. These new bodkins appear to be perfect tool to ease the pain.
Terry Jones
These look amazing. Do you know how many times I have lost the end of the elastic and the pin comes off or the pin won’t fit thru a spot that is just a tad bit to small of an opening to get it thru. Would love a set of these.
Tanya McQueen
Grrr…..It takes longer to put in elastic correctly than making the garment. So I usually walk away if that is the case and come back to it later. Sometimes months later. 🙁
Susan Kay
What great tools! These would make elastic insert so fast and easy! I would share with my daughter who has little boys, and making shorts for them!
Donna Hassinger
It often takes me 15 – 20 minutes to complete this task and of course that seems way too long as I am usually really anxious to complete a “special ” project for my little grand babies!! The flexibility of these new tools will make it so much easier!!!
Adele Swanson
I just made some culottes for my mother using knit material. The hardest part is putting the elastic through the waistband. I definitely will be looking for these new tools. My old bodkins did not work well at all and I can’t seem to find any diaper pins from the “old days”.
Tina
It takes me a while especially if I get stuck at the side seams. I also hate it when I am trying to secure the elastic and it gets loose and shoes back into the casing. I really need the lock!
Maryellen
This is so exciting! I’ve been sewing forever and usually dread threading elastic through a casing. The safety pin method rarely works without a tweak or two and makes the job more time consuming than it needs to be. I guess that can be in the past tense now with these new tools! Great ideas, Nancy!
Jane Jarvis
I’ve had it take about an hour when the pin opens and can’t get out . Then rip open seam,remove pin and resew seam. To find I forgot to take the elastic out sewed it in the seam. Rip open again remove elastic and resew to start all over again. But then I have times when it seemed to take no time at all and wonder what the heck.
Elizabeth Lewis
At least 15 minutes putting the elastic in the casing. Of course I have to add the time rounding up a big safety pin, which is usually missing in action. I have used a jewelry safety pin (to close a kilt skirt) in a pinch. Once again, having the right tools make all the difference!
Jan C
Like others have commented, I’ve used the metal bodkin, and had it let go of the elastic before reaching the end. I’ve gone back to the safety pin, and had to rip out the casing to release the opened pin. It takes time and patience. I’m thrilled you were working on a new and improved tool!
Dottie Macomber
I’ve used the old metal bodkin with the teeth and the sliding ring- which is great until I push against the ring the wrong way and the thing opens, releasing the elastic! Grrr! I’ve also used the safety pin at either end, one to feed the elastic through and one to pin the other end so it doesn’t slip in out of reach. The lock looks like it could be very useful, and I like the flexibility of the other tools, as sometimes the metal bodkin is too large to work well, especially for small doll clothes.
Barbara Greene
My dad could fix anything but he always taught all four girls that they needed the right tool to do the job, therefore I will be putting all of these on my wish list.
Michelle Lynch
I would estimate that waistbands usually take me 20 -60 minutes , depending on method used and how well the threading of the elastic goes. The new tools are very intriguing and I would love to win them. It is time to sew up some shorts for my daughter’ s for summer camp and to make some new summer skirts!
Julie Reusch
I have always used the old bobbin which invariably came loose half way through. These look great.
Inez Toms
I use a safety pin to bring the elastic through the casing and that does take a while. I usually get frustrated because I can’t get the safety pin to go through where the seam has joined and sometimes have to start over because I have lost hold of the pin.
Dianne Montano
I am so excited for the three new tools! They can put a man on the moon, and yet sewers struggle with elastic and trims. Thank you Nancy!
Sandra Wilkinson
I have to think real hard before I will sew something that needs a casing as it will take me several hours to complete. I have been know to never finish what I have started. These new items would be wonderful and allow me to finish a project.
Wilma Shimkus
Attaching the waist band only take a few minutes if I take care to line everything up. I really like your tips and the new tools will be a must for my studio.
Thank you.
Luanne Ross
It takes me 15 to 30 mins, depending on the elastic type and ensuring that it doesn’t twist. I use a safety pin that is small enough for the casing, but large enough to feel. Your tool looks like something I could sure use!
Wilma Shimkus
Attaching a waist band only takes a few minutes if all is lined up first. Your tips and new tools will make it even easier.
Opal
What clever ideas. They are going on my needs list.
Jeanne
Oh my goodness – I can’t wait to try these new bodkins!!!!!! I have struggled with putting elastic in waistbands esp in knit pants for my grandsons. Often it takes me 10 min to finally get the elastic in after trying first the metal bodkins I have had for years – and when the bodkin looses the elastic – revert back to the safety pin to accomplish the task. I use a pin to keep the elastic from “disappearing” while I’m struggling to thread the elastic through and invariably get stuck with the pin in the process. The elastic lock will save me from those sticks and secure the elastic so much better. What a clever idea!
Karen J
I have several metal bodkins. I sew doll clothes and children’s cloths. It is sometimes difficult to use the metal bodkins as there is a lot of curves. Having flexible bodkins would be wonderful.
traudy
wow- such great inventions for a sometimes frustrating exercise. Who hasn’t exclaimed when the elastic has let go from the bodkin and you need to pull it out and start all over again, and that hunt and pick when trying to get elastic through double seams…..this is great and I really hope to win a set. Thanks for continue to think outside the proverbial box! cheers to all sewers!
Carol Parker
I have always used a safety pin to put in elastic. As a teacher (now retired), I used to tell my students that with the right knowledge and the right tools, they could accomplish anything. I think these tools would make my stiff hands have a better time with putting in elastic , and not pulling the end through and needing to start over, which has happened more than once since I started making clothes for my three granddaughters.
Donna Klug
Thank you Nancy! Such an ingenious design! This tool is on my wish list! The right tools make the job easier! Can’t wait to use it!
Lisa
Keeping the elastic straight inside the waistband has been a challenge for me, especially using the safety pin method of drawing the elastic through the waistband. Usually it takes about 30 minutes to attach the waistband to the skirt, about 20 minutes to thread the elastic through with the safety-pin, and then about 5 minutes to finish closing the waistband if I sew by hand. The advantage of the safety pin method is that there are plenty of safety pins around! The disadvantage of safety pins is that they sometimes open up inside the waistband, and poke me!
Kathy
All these years I have relied on safety pins. How great these look. Thank you. kathleendotlutzatcomcastdotnet
Linda
What great ideas! Inserting elastic and keeping it in place until you can sew it has always been an annoying job for me. I really like these new ideas.
Diana
Like anyone who sews for kids I do lots of elastic waistbands. This new tool looks like a big improvement over my safety pin.
April Iris McLeod
I LOVE your new tools! I have been sewing for 46 years and, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve fought with a safety pin while pulling elastic! Thanks for years of fun, Nancy!
Patricia Carbery
I sure would love the elastic bodkins I spent a lot of time make skirts and pants for my 3 grandchildren and my 77 year old hands could use something beside safety pins to put elastic thru waistbands ,
Liz M
I can’t wait to use the new bobkins. I always have trouble with the elastic slipping out of my current bobkin and the ribbon getting shredded at the ends. With the new bobkins it will be easier and neater I have been using the no bulk butting the ends of elastic since I saw it on Sewing with Nancy
Kimberly Hubbard
I am a nurse and make my own scrubs. I am forever fighting to get the elastic in my scrub pants. This will change my world. Can’t wait to get it.
Sharon
I used a safety pin for years before I discovered the metal bodkin, but I have to be careful that it doesn’t slide open before I finish the task. These new tools look to be an improvement. Bet I could thread the elastic in less than 5 minutes. I like the recommendation to sew a piece of fabric to the elastic ends.
Betty Pegram
I love these tools. Safety pins are a pain! I am going to put these on my wish list today. Thanks Nancy
Nancys Notions is my favorite shop !
carol ward
I usually use a safety pin, but sometimes it comes open and I have to rip out everything to get out and then have to straighten the twisted elastic. I have a metal bodkin but, it doesn’the work well either. I’m adding these new tools to my wishlist.
Linda Livingston
I love new ideas and am happy you are involved with further improving our lives. Thanks Nancy. Hope you are feeling well today.
Linda Harrower
I am still doing the old school way of the large safety pin, now I have a granddaughter who likes twirley skirts, this would be great, as it’s harder to grip the safety pin these days!
Kelly Sasman
Leave it to you Nancy to get us a tool to get the job done easier, quicker and properly! Thank you. Thank you Clover also. I love their quality made products because they work! I can’t count the hours and hours I’ve spent on waistbands – with more to come as we have a new granddaughter. Can’t wait to get these in my hands!
Cheryl Seipke
I hate fighting with the elastic – twisting and/or releasing so I lose the end. :0(. I would love to have these tools.
Betty Pegram
Safety Pins are a Pain! Thanks Nancy for these great tools. They will be on my list. When I go to the mailbox and there is your latest magazine….it is the first thing I look at. Thanks You are a leader in the industry.
Marsha Nater
I’ve always used a safety pin or the metal bodkin and would get frustrated when the elastic would pull out of the bodkin. Your new products look like it could solve my problem!
Tia Jah
For an elastic waistband, I usually spend around 30 minutes attaching it and placing the elastic…if all goes well. These tools look to be REALLY helpful!
Janice
I still use a safety pin. Doesn’t take but a few minutes, if I don’t get interupted. I dvr your shows & enjoy watching them over numerous times. Thanks for all the tips you give!
Gayle Neely
I am not fond of inserting elastic! Takes awhile especially if it twists. These tools look great! I put elastic in some waistbands for clothes I wear and things I sell.
Mary Ann
Looking forward to these tools! I use the safety pin method and it’s a struggle at best, especially frustrating with very full gathers.
nancy
I am amazed at what you come up with. Inserting elastic should be fast and easy but it’s not. Thanks to your new tools, inserting elastic will no longer be a chore. Thank you for always coming up with ways to make sewing fun and easy!
BevM
I usually spend time on traditional waistbands, interfacing, grading seam allowances, and hand sewing the facing.
I like this quick elastic insertion. While I was teaching middle school sewing, my students and I bent countless safety pins, which often come apart, while inserting elastic. I also had no luck with the “tweezer-type” bodkins. These new tools look to be a great improvement.
Kayleen Runyan
can take as long to get the waistband right as it takes me to make the whole skirt! I can’t wait to add this set to my useful tools.
Ilana
I haven’t made garments for quite a while and recently have been thinking of getting back into it. I do remember “losing” a lot of elastic and drawstrings inside the casing while trying to pull them through. These tools look fantastic.
Verity Creekmore
These tools look awesome. I do not spend any time inserting elastic because of all the reasons listed above. With them I might be able to start using elastic again.
Sheila
So much time has been spend pulling the elastic through the casings of garments and hoping that the safety pin doesn’t open and/or the elastic doesn’t get twisted on it’s journey. Looks like quite a timesaver.
Mary Brady
So many new and exciting new tools to adding the elastic in the casing. These tools are such a time saver…. Depending on the elastic twisting and finding a safety pin, it can take up to 1/2 hour by adding th elastic. This tool would Definately save looking for safety pins.
Bonnie
Those look fantastic! Haven’t done any waistbands for quite awhile, but those tools have me thinking I should make clothing again!
Barbara Palmatier
I like the whole idea here. It is nice that you are still thinking of ways to make our lives better for us. As for myself, I use the pin method and sometimes the pin does open and I get stuck with it or it gets hung up on a seam, but just a little of wiggling the material around and I am on my way around again. I too like the adding of the piece of material on the back to make it smooth. Now why didn’t I think of that?
debbie rhodes
I would have loved to have this when i was making clothes for my two daughters and then the 2 granddaughters… I have spent a lot of time getting elastic in without twisting or losing the end and having to start over… would love to win…but if I don’t be assured i will order these..
Amy W
I love your blog, Nancy. Thank you for sharing your new ideas and products with us! These bodkin tools would be such a time saver. Can’t wait to try them out! My daughter just told me that circle skirts are really “in” right now and she wouldn’t mind if I made her one. Thanks for the tutorial 🙂
Carol Grimes
I always dread that part of a project – the casings. I can’t wait to try this. Thanks.
Carol Moore
Over the years I have spent way too much time inserting elastic and have lost my anchor end many times. These new tools look terrific. If I don’t win one I just may have to buy it!
Thanks for all the useful info!
Carol
Margaret
Wow another time saving product! I learned about the sewing of material scrap on the end of elastic from you, thank you for all your tricks you share.
Diane C
I just try to avoid it as much as possible == but this would make me rethink putting elastic in a casing
Wendy Siniscalchi
These are great tools. Putting in a casing for elastic only takes a few minutes. Threading the elastic is a different story using the safety pin method. These tools would cut that time and effort by half.
Lori Morton
What a grand invention for inserting elastic!! I use a safety pin…and takes sooo long…& often need to start over..& over..arrrrgh! & OVER! lol
Thanks for chance to win! 🙂
Kim
Oh my I would have LOVED to have had these products 3 weeks ago. I made TWELVE circle skirts for dance recital! I used my trusty safety pin with 1 inch elastic, takes time because you have to make sure the elastic does not twist. The costumes came out fine but what a time saver these would have been. Would love to have them and they will be going on my wish list.
sharon cason
I waste too much time putting om waistbands. LOL This set would be a heaven sent to me. Thanks for the chance to win
Judy
It takes 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific project. These items will have many uses as they live in our sewing rooms.
Kristi Dennis
I have been so frustrated with trying to put elastic thru a casing that I try to avoid it at all times. Now I won’t have to!
Marsha Ransom
Never timed it but I do have a tool which I think I got from your catalog, flexible and has been a great help. These tools would make it much simpler than the safety pin method I used for years, and which makes my thumb joints hurt too much now to consider using very often. Thanks for coming up with so many “easier” ways to do things!
Karen Roop
These are great tools to add to my sewing supplies. Gotta have them and will be ordering them with my next Nancy’s catalog order!
Karen R.
Carol
When I am sewing for my precious granddaughter I don’t consider the time involved or only as a labor of love. That is not to say that I don’t spend a lot of time threading elastic through narrow casings for skirts, gowns and petticoats and wishing that I had a better way. I would love to win one of these tools.
Lorena M
What a great idea to make the dreaded elastic band application go so much smoother. Thanks for a chance to win. And if I don’t it will be on my To Buy list
Mary Jo Pigott Groom
I don’t spend a lot of time because I have always followed you. 🙂 first thing I bought from Nancy’s Notions was a bodkin. I would love to get this for my daughter who is starting sewing lessons this summer. On her supply list was one big and one small safety pin. I thought when was the last time I used a safety pin for an elastic? Thanks to Nancy, a very long time ago.
Mary Jo Pigott Groom
I don’t spend a lot of time because I have always followed you. 🙂 first thing I bought from Nancy’s Notions was a bodkin. I would love to get this for my daughter who is starting sewing lessons this summer. On her supply list was one big and one small safety pin. I thought when was the last time I used a safety pin for an elastic? Thanks to Nancy, a very long time ago.
Kathy Smigen
These tools would be so useful sewing ’18 doll clothes. I end up having the end of my elastic slip back into the waistband! So frustrating! I also have a long skirt that the 2″ elastic turned over on itself in the waistband. I’m going to have to open the seam allowance and adjust the elastic and the elastic lock would be so helpful when doing this to keep the rest of the elastic in the right orientation. Thank you for your great products and sewing tips and directions.
Judy J
I use a large safety pin so it definitely takes me longer than it will take with those tools. Also, using a safety pin sometimes causes the elastic to twist, which can be frustrating.
Andie Letourneau
I usually use a large safety pin to feed the elastic through the casing. It takes a while because the safety pin is relatively short and it sometimes gets caught on the other seam allowances in the waistband.
Nellie Arriola
I use the safety pin method of inserting elastic it does have its limits. if all goes well, it’s a great thing. But unfortunately it usually doesn’t. These new tools while so simple can make a job so much easier! I love to watch your show. I’ve been watching many, many years. Your tips have helped me tremendously! Please keep on showing us the “how to’s”.
Marty
I like to wear skirts and dresses at work, but I spend NO time on garment waistbands at present because I avoid them due to excess time needed for elastic threading with a safety pin! Sometimes I buy fabric with pre-elasticized rows for quicker skirts. Now I will try your bodkins; thanks!
Donna
Doing a lot of doll clothes and to be able to pull the elastic through without binding on the other seams would be wonderful. Putting it on my wishlist, looks like a time saver!
Safety pins can be time consuming and frustrating.
Becky M
I get very frustrated inserting elastic into a casing, especially when its knit fabric. I use the tweezer type bodkin and more than half the time, the elastic breaks free and I have to try to get it back together. Ugh. It takes way too much time. I would love to try your new tools.
Shelly Hayes
Waistbands usually deter me from making shirts at all. These tools look interesting to me!
Betty Ludwig
I love these new bodkins! I have always used the safety pin to get elastic into my waistbands. Not my favorite way to do it and it is time consuming. I think these new bodkins will be a much better way to put elastic in waistbands.
Janet Duff
The time I spend applying waistbands varies depending on the project. Elastic may take me 15 to 30 minutes. I have been using my trusty safety pins for this so sometimes I run into snags. The worst is when the pin comes open. Lately I haven’t sewn any nonelastic waistbands, maybe 30 minutes. I am excited about these new tools. I would really appreciate owning any of them. Thank you!
Sue
Clever inventions always make me wonder, “Why didn’t I think of that.” This is clever and practical. Saves 15-30 minutes depending on the project. But even more important, it removes frustration making sewing so much more fun. I just love all the Clove products. CLOVER IS CLEVER.
Paula Howard
I spend a lot of frustrating minutes trying to get the elastic through the casing and not get caught in the other seam allowances. I learned something new today with your method of sewing the ends to a scrap of fabric. I’m definitely trying that next time and hopefully, if I win the new bodkin tools, I’ll get that elastic through lickety-split.
Thank you for all advice and inspiration.
Kerry
I’ve used safety pins and later a metal bodkin, but these flexible ones look great. I prefer doing waistbands to zippers!
Joanne
Longer than it should! And even longer now than my fingers are arthritic and trigger thumb…toooo long!
Dee
I make doll clothes for my “army granddaughter” ( I say that because my son has been in the Army for 12 yrs now and my gd is 9…. So always moving
Floss
Oh Boy! How many times have a pulled elastic to watch the end frustratingly disappear into a casing. This could be a life saver
Candice
I’ve never really thought about the amount of time I spend on applying a waistband, probably because I have had your good instructions/tips. And I just had the elastic joining tip sink in – I know I’ve heard it before, and it finally registered! (just in time for the summer pj’s for my grandson!) After the 3rd time of pulling the elastic through, I learned to safety pin the open end, but I love your new products. I see a Nancy’s Notions shopping spree coming up!
Alys
Oh, yes! I could certainly use these new bodkins! I haven’t timed myself, but I know I spend ways too much time putting in elastic waistbands.
Cynthia S
These tools look so cool! Definitely will need to buy them. So much time will be saved in using them!
LindaC in AZ
Probably 15 minutes or so. I’ve tried different bodkins and always find myself going back to using a safety pin to insert elastic through the casing. Would love to find something that works really well.
Melanie
Waistbands are more fiddley than other parts of sewing, so it takes a bit longer, especially the pinning part. When I put elastic through a casing I don’t cut the elastic to length. Instead I just mark it. Then I don’t worry about the end disappearing. I do use a safety pin, however, so these new bodkins look very useful!
Beverly W
Thank you Nancy for creating these wonderful tools. I make a lot of doll clothes and clothes for my granddaughters. With arthritis in my hands and especially in my thumb, it takes a long time to push the elastic thru the casings with a safety pin. Once done my hands are screaming for a rest. These tools would be such a pain saver and joy to use. Love your show!
Pat
Anything that makes feeding elastic or cords through a casing is welcome. Would love to win one of these new tools.
Michaeleen
Very innovative products! I sure would use them. They would make my life easier. The metal bobbins just don’t work for me. Thanks Nancy!
Keeping you in my prayers for your healing.
Jane .
Waistbands casings usually take 15-20 minutes. Your new bodkin tools look like time and frustration savers. Thanks.
Bonny Krueger
This makes elastic look so easy, thanks!
Fran H.
It is always a relief when the elastic goes through a casing with a seam without hanging up or causing a tweeking of th casing. These tools look very helpful. I would love to try these by winning!
Martha Hood
Looks easy- makes you want to put elastic in skirts again- have spent hours trying to get them in, and not having the other end slip through and then have trouble getting it back – Thanks for these tips and ideas– have a great day
Fairlee Yelton
All three look like useful tools, and I’ll put them on my Wish List.
Karen
I spend way too much time putting in waistbands…I had to get a cortisone shot in my thumb from overuse which was mostly from pulling elastic through casings with a safety pin!!
Nancy Carr
I have 3 or 4 bodkins and tools (including safety pins) and usually end up trying more than one before I find something that works well. This tool set looks like it would replace all I have, and would make a fantastic gift for my sewing friends.
Hope W
Until recently, I avoided waistbands of any kind, but I have started wanting to wear skirts again. So, I’m not sure how long to put one in; maybe 20-30 minutes? It’s easy to make skirts, though, so your new tools are released at just the right time! Congrats on the launch and hope that I might be lucky enough to win.
Marcia Mains
I spend most of my time these days replacing elastic in my husbands sweats, takes me about 30 minutes if all goes well.
Carolyn
I spend more time than I’d like, probably 30 minutes or more. I’ve “invented” many bodkins in my day to slide elastic through the casings. A diaper pin is my favorite.
Kim Harrington
Oh my gosh, these are genius Nancy!! I will eventually need all three for sure! I would love to win one of them!
Dorothy Van Pelt
This looks great. I make a lot of little dresses for dolls and granddaughters and would love to win these. It would save so much time which is so valuable these days. Thanks Nancy for your continuing effort in making things easier.
Priscilla Parmenter
This looks like it will really be a useful tool to use. Have to have tools that make things easier. So glad someone got this wise idea.
Marcia
Your new bodkin so sure beat my old favorite,the extra large safety pin! I think I am showing my age with the comment. I’ve never shied away from waistbands, but some are more time consuming than others. Congrats on you new Clover additions.
susan Bass
LOOKS GREAT,I LOVE THESE HANDY THINGS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER,THAN A SAFETY PIN?LOL
Marge
I love circle skirts and how they drape beautifully over the body. The new elastic bodkins are the perfect answer to working with elastic casings for these skirts. Now you’ve given me inspiration to make a circle skirt. Many thanks to Nancy and Clover.
Taylor Anderson
It usually takes me about 15 min for a basic insertion…. 🙂
Pat Wolf
It takes about 20 minutes to get the waistband pinned and sewn om the skirt. Then allow another 15 minutes to an hour for the elastic to pull through. It’s 15 minutes if the pin and elastic go through the casing easily and does not twist. Allow an hour if there are problems–20 minutes to fight with it to get it to work, 20 minutes for a cup of coffee to calm down, another 20 to finish. I’m new to your emails and website and really appreciate the tip on joining the elastic!!
Michele
I use a lg safety pin to hold elastic and try and work it thru opening, but you don’t know how many times I loose the other end while pulling elastic! I have resorted o holding elastic end in my teeth while pulling other end through 🙁
Hate to admit that, but it is a last resort.
Frances
Wow; how cool!!! It can take 10-15 minutes using safety pin or other bodkins (which often do NOT make it all the way through). What awesome tools! Thanks so much, Nancy!!!
Kathryn
Nany, I love your “Note from Nancy: Create a bulk-free elastic seam by zigzagging elastic ends to a swatch of firmly woven fabric. Cut away extra fabric.” Your pictures and instructions are the best I’ve seen.
Kathryn
I can’t remember the last time I made a garment with elastic, but I do repair elastic waistbands in shorts and pajamas. And my poor old bodkin is nearly useless. It’s metal, with teeth that don’t hold much, and a ring that slides up to supposedly tighten it. I haven’t shopped for a new bodkin lately, but I sure will now, because Nancy’s are brilliant.
Kathryn
Sorry, I didn’t mean to reply to my own comment.
Sandra MacWilliam
Awesome tools for elastic. Even on doll clothes and my 4 year old granddaughter’s clothes, it takes forever to insert the elastic using the large safety pin method. Wow, thanks for sharing.
Judy McB
Since the ’70’s I’ve been using a large safety pin for elastic insertion. I’ve made several items that require elastic for my daughters, and now my granddaughters. These new tools look amazing and I know they will cut my time in half (usually anywhere from 10-15 minutes now). Thank you Nancy for once again providing us with innovative tools!
Lillace Christianson
Probably takes me about 20 minutes to ser a waist and, but haven’t seen in a while. This cute skirt might just change that! Have a great day!
Sharon Goodrich
This new tool would make putting elastic in waistbands or wrist cuffs soooo much easier! And I would just have to do it once instead of losing the elastic and starting over at least once. Need to have one of these tools!!
Meg Hinson
Somewhere between 15 to 25 min.
JEAN SELL
Oh my I love the fabric behind the elastic I’ve always had trouble with mine and so I would put the elastic outside the inside of sleeves so I didn’t have to pull anything threw. It did the trick but your way I love.
craftygramma
I would say I spend enough time putting elastic through waistbands to make it almost a Zen like experience. I have six grands (7 in December) and constantly make skirts and board shorts for them. I do mean constantly. Maybe these tools would complete the process and it could be Zen…?
thanks and hope you (Nancy) are doing well
Kathy Zachry
I can make an elastic waistband in 15-20 minutes UNLESS the metal bodkin I use gets hung up and releases the fabric! Grrrr! Sounds like these notions might prevent that. Thanks for the giveaway!l
Karen B.
It takes about 20-30 minutes if all goes well. The elastic may pull through at the other end if I forgot to pin it, or the elastic twists and I have to fuss with it to get it straight. These tools look absolutely wonderful for the job. Thanks so much Nancy, for all your tips and techniques to have taught us.
Sharon McCrosky
I have always hoped there would an easier way to inset elastic. Using a large safty which left a hole in the elastic and the safety pin would get stuck or open in the casing. The elastic end will get lost and now it over 30 minutes of frustration, not to mention the thick overlap of elastic at your center back.
I could really use these tools. Question: how do the tools hold up after time. I am concern about the latch hook. Had problems in the past with a hook with a clip that would not stay closed and opened in the garmet casing.
Thank you
Connie Cain
These are great!! What a great tool to have! I don’t don’t know how many hours I have spent with getting eleastic through those small holes. 🙂 Thanks for the chance
[email protected]
Carol S
I’m so excited about these new tools. I presently use a metal bodkin that has seen better days. It’s metal ring doesn’t cinch up tight like it used to and I frequently lose the elastic somewhere inside the casing. Thank you for the chance to win these!
Jill T
What a great idea for elastic! It will save me about 30 minutes at least!
Susan wood
These tools are wonderfully designed. I am excited to retire my safety pins! 🙂
Gail Beam
Love great sewing notions and these elastic tools would be so useful. It usually takes me about 15 to 30 minutes to sew an elastic waste band using the safety pin method of elastic insertion. I like to make seat covers for my bar stools to save the original cover. It takes forever( at least it seems like it) to thread the 1/4 inch elastic through the casing. Thanks for the chance to win a great new elastic notion.
Janee
Never really timed it, but I’m guessing 20 minutes or so. It’s a step which can cause me to procrastinate finishing a project.
Debbie B.
I would struggle with the older version bodkins trying to keep them attached, so I would think this combination would save me 30 minutes for sure. 😉
Nancy C
I never really timed how long it takes….
thanks for the great giveaway.
DIANE ANDERSON
I recently purchases a bodkin at a fabric store for a project requiring different sizes of elastic. It was a nightmare…elastic slipped loose, twisted, or wouldn’t work with some elastic sizes listed. I ended up gathering three different sizes of safety pins to complete the project adding a great deal of time and frustration to the piece. After viewing you new product I will not start another project using elastic until I have tools you designed.
Martha
Not sure. It would be nice to try these tools.
Arline Bivins
What a super idea! This method usually takes me 40 minutes roughly. I have used my daughter’s (she is 40 now) diaper pins to thread the elastic. Thank you for the opportunity to be in your giveaway.
Yvon
I probably spend 10-15 minutes installing it with a big safety pin
felica
I would LOVE THIS . It would save ME a whole lot of time (45) min
At least. I can do my skirts pants wrist and jumpsuit elastic bands
Ooh whee the possibilities.
carylanne
I use a 40+ yr old big eye long tool thread the elastic then sew the sides. Yes I know you don’t get stretch all the way, but that is how I did it for 35yrs of fashion sewing. because it doesn’t do well on small round projects. those are better with the ubiquitous safety pin.
Sharon Kirby
I used to make many circular skirts with three rows of ribbon trim forballet students. Unfortunately, no elastic waistband was allowed. This would have been so much easier particularly with this new tool.
Cecilia Huether
It usually takes about 20 minutes for me to do one of these kind of waistbands, but could see these tools would make it much easier, sometimes lose the elastic and have to start over.
Pat
A great time saving notion, on my list of must haves.
Pat
Chris D.
It dosen’t take me long at all. But I do think these new tools would be great!
Judith Blinkenberg
if I am adding a waistband seperate it takes me about an hour. If I use the skirt and fold down the top about 30 minutes. I have a regular bodkin and hope it doesn’t unconnect. The would be so nice for my skirts and for the doll clothes I make!
Jackie
Wow, I could stop using a safety pin and surely stop losing my elastic in my pants or skirt that always seem to be twisted….this is a great sewing ” need to have” tool that could save on timely mishaps…and I could get alot of more sewing done. Thanks, Nancy!
Andrea Hudgens
Honestly, I try to avoid waistbands. The option pictured here looks like a great alternative to the ones that invariably cut me in half. (My body type doesn’t like waistbands) An elastic waist that doesn’t “look” like an elastic waist will save me the “waisted” hour per garment that I dread the most. I have tried other threading tools, but they aren’t the most user friendly items. I am looking forward to getting these. Ready to order NOW!!!
Jo
It take me a long time now that i am in my 70s. I have 7 great granddaughters ,under 7years old, I really could use these tools..would love to win.
Candy S
I don’t know how long a job like this takes. I have a stiff bodkin and have to use a safety pin for projects that aren’t flat. These tools seem much easier to use.
Starla
Love the idea — the bodkin would be a big help!
MaryAnn Urvig
after looking at the new tools , all I can say is WOW, they would save me at least 30 min when inserting elastic using them..
will be on my “I need them” list..
Linda Z
Thanks Nancy for the great ideas. love the new tools, they look like they would really cut down on the 20 minutes threading a pin through the casing. I lent my flexible bodkin to my best friend and she broke it . Someday I’ll get another to replace it, until then I’ll use a safety pin.
Phyllis
Haven’t sewed clothes for a long time but since I am now retired I plan to give it a try again.
Judi
I usually sew for my little grand daughter,,,I have this little metal thing that is supposed to grab the elastic and act like a needle feeding the elastic through the waste band,,,,well it gives out in the middle and I spend a ton of time trying to fish it out to start over….maybe these tools will work better,,,I would love to try them.
LoAnn T
I don’t know. Haven’t sewed garments for ages. These tools would really make it easier–will have to see about doing this again!
beth
I usually spend about fifteen minutes to do a waistband on shorts. I use an old metal bodkin which I am not sure it will hold through the waistband. I have to be real careful when I do it. I would love these tools to help with the elastic waistband.
Jane E
I’ve sewn over 100 Dresses for Africa, and threaded, with a very small safety pin, the 1/4 inch elastic through the front and back of each dress. Oh, my aching fingers !!!!! The Flex’n Glide Bodkin would be a great time saver, and finger saver, for the next 100 dresses. Thanks for thinking of it !!!
Ruth Chapman
I’d guess it would take me abot an hour and that these new tools would cut that in half.
Sandra Cantrell
Have moved up from a large safety pin to a metal deal with teeth and a ring to hold the elastic secure. Guess it worked on paper not so much in real life if it had to be tugged on to get through the casing. Easy is good. Thanks.
Karen
I have a short metal bodkin, it gives me finger cramps because it is not long enough. I like the idea of a clamp holding the end of the elastic…I hope I might win!
Marcia Mc
These would be wonderful tools to have in my sewing basket.
Karen Pirone
I have used both the big safety pin and often had to make 2 or 3 tries to get it all the way around a casing, and the old fashioned bodkin that has the alligator teeth and the little ring that slips down the two prongs to hold the elastic securely in the teeth while pulling. Sometimes it works, but usually it lets go about 3/4 of the way around. Frustrating! Winning these would give me the courage to try elastic casings again!
Mary Wippold
I usually use a large safety pin when applying elastic. Seems that every bodkin I use either breaks or does not securely grip. I would say it takes me on average 1 hour to make a waistband. It varies by the thickness of the fabric and whether my fingers and wrist are stiff.
Lynn
Too much time! These tools look like they will make garment construction easier, less frustrating. Keep up the good ideas!
belinda miller
too much time to count. i make low cost renaissance garb for those that cant afford the high prices of most. some years over 100 other years a dozen. just depends but all my garb has elastic so every piece is adjustable. just another way to get more done in a short amount of time.
Enid Pitre Mejias
I used a metal bodkins with the rounded tip which broke in half when I was using a metal clamp to push it through a pair of boxers I was making for my hubby using Professor pincushion’s pattern. I had folded the elastic tape in half to insert through the eye of bodkin which actually didn’t really fit. Well I ended up using a large safety pin. Hope to win this one!
Donna
I Make wraps skirts all the time . I love making circle skirts, and this will certainly make making them more enticing. Cutting 15 at least 10 minutes to sew and another 20 to fuss around with the elastic and Casing so approximately 45 minutes.
Chris
it usually takes me 20-30 minutes to apply a waistband.these new tools look like they would make the job much easier.
Debra
I am not sure but would love to win these tools.
Jan
Not much time at all because I try to avoid that job when possible. The elastic always seems to get loose in the casing and I’m starting over. The new tools look great, Maybe I’ll try again.
Kristy
LOL @ Jan. Yeah, I avoid it too. Unfortunately, clothes don’t stay on my skinny children without waistbands! I usually cheat and apply the waistband before sewing up the side or back seam (whichever applies) so there are no curves to maneuver through. A trick my aunt taught me was to pin the loose end of the elastic to the fabric so it couldn’t pull through by accident. And if using a safety pin to pull the elastic through, FOLD the elastic over about an inch from the end and pin your pulling pin 1/4″ from the fold. This keeps the elastic from unraveling and coming off the pin.
Peggy V
One of those tools would be great, it takes me about 30 to 60 minutes, for this task!
Ky W
I probably spend 15 minutes to put elastic in the waistband.
I use a safety pin and sometimes it opens and I have to work to get it closed again. other tools seem to let the elastic escape. I would love to try these new tools.
Susan Proft
I have used a large safety pin and I usually don’t have a problem but all of the tools look like it would make it easier. Thanks
Mitzi Peters
Wow…so it looks like lotsa people like to sew for children or like elastic waists….count me in on those excited for any helpful tools with which to thread elastic…..thanks so very much…..Mitzi
Peggy R
It takes me forever to get a waistband onto a skirt. I have had to rip out and start again many times. These tools would make at least one part of it much easier. They would give me more patience to be used on pinning properly!!
Berenice
I don’t do casings on waistbands too often, but have had similar frustrations that others have had with the elastic escaping! I would spend way too much time redoing the waistband. I also switch out drawstrings in hoodies for more colorful ones. The flexible tool looks like it would help keep things together.
Diane Mayotte
I don’t know how long it takes me but these tools look very helpful and time saving. Thanks
Lisa
It takes me at least an hour when putting in a waist band casing. I would love these tools I’m sure they would make the job a lot easier?
Linda Molden
It takes a half hour or more to sew the waistband and insert elastic. I use a safety pin or metal bodkin which often frays the end of the elastic. The flexible bodkins and elastic lock set sound like a dream come true.
Shirley Dehmer
My front porch faces a high wall so I have semi privacy. I pull an elastic-waist skirt up around my sleep shirt and run out bare footed to water my plants. In case someone should happen to see me, I am covered. I would love to have your fantastic gadgets to keep the blankitee-blank elastic from slipping when I make my handi cover-ups. Thank you for coming up with something that should have been invented when we first got plastic.
Patti
Waist elastics on children’s pants take me almost half an hour and about twice as long for adults. Saving time would be great…time for more projects. (Love the skirt tute!)
Barb Burk
What a good idea the clip is. Cant wait to get one
Deana Guardado
I make a lot of doll clothes, a lot of which have tiny casings. It’s often difficult to get safety pins into a casing without accidentally opening up the pin while pushing it through the casing. These would really be helpful, especially for circular casings that take 1/4″ elastic. I spend more time trying to get elastic – and even string – through a casing than I do cutting out the garment, in many cases. I believe it takes anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the design and the width of the casing, for each garment. These tools would be extremely helpful, especially if they work for smaller sizes.
Alana LeSueur
Too much time, like the other sewers’ responses. I would have to guess that it would most likely be about a half hour from start to finish if I am having a good day.
Theresa Lensmyer
Too much wasted time spent pulling through with a safety pin only to have the other end coming through too fast. These gadgets would save valuable time that could be spent on more sewing!!
Pam Flora
I could have really used these a couple of weeks ago when I was making outfits for my granddaughters. I usually used the standard safety pin to pull the elastic through the casing and had the usual problems…pin decided to open inside the casing…pinned the elastic too close to the edge and it pulled off in the casing…and of course pull the elastic completely through the casing and had to start all over!
SHERRY PELL
Hi Nancy this is the best of the best. The last time I tried to do this was a disaster, It took 4 tries and my hubby finally helped me. The Pin opened up and I tried to remove it and blood all over my lovely white skirt but finally we found a large pin and sewed end together It took about an 3/4 of an hour and we were both frustrated. But because of your hard work and diligence even being ill with Cancer I honor you. I am in remission. If I an not a winner I will be an orderer . thank you
Carol Peterson
Putting elastic through a casing is not one of my favorite parts of construction! It can be a 15-20 minute process! These tools look wonderful and I’m anxious to try them!
susan718
I probably spend 15-30 minutes on waistbands. No matter how many times I tell myself to hold the end, I still have times when the whole elastic pops through the casing and I have to re-do it. I would love to have the elastic lock, you are a genius! Thank you for the great giveaway!
Kathy
probably takes me an hour because I sew down the seam allowances so they don’t get in the way when I’m threading the elastic through. It is a big frustration when the elastic comes unclipped from my bodkin about halfway through. These tools look very useful.
ktdid
Bad words…bad words…bad words. Repeat this chant each time the metal bodkin comes loose and you fish out the bodkin plus the elastic. You are in my prayers Nancy, not a day goes by I don’t think of you. Have loved you since 1978!! I really do feel for you and your family. My prayers and love to you Kate
violet valencourt
I sew little boys shorts for 2 missionaries that go to remote areas overseas, so I, and now my husband helps,( I have arthritis in my hands so it is a little ucomfortable at times) put the elastic into the wristbands with a safety pin at the end of the elastic, so this tool would be such a great tool to make the task easier. So far this year approx 300 pairs have been made so that tool would be a BIG help!! (I enjoy your weekly program. I learn a lot. Thank you)!!! Vi
arlene arp
I make doll clothes and spend up to 15 minutes on stringing elastic on some things, also do other crafts that could cut my time in 1/2 by using these tools. Great invention.
Barb Fisher
Hi, I have used most of the other bodkins you have suggested, I have the metal one that is a little thicker, an skinny metal on and a long plastic one. These look especially nice for waist bands and casings. I would really appreaciate a set of these awesome bodkins. Thanks for the opportunity. Barb
Becky
Time depends on how tight I make the casing, how many rows of elastic, and if the safety pin opens or gets stuck at the seam. These tools would simplify the process.
Adeline
I make a lot of sleep pants for grandchildren so am always putting in elastic. These look like wonderful tools to make the job easier and faster.
PS
If a project such as this says it will take 30 min, you can be sure it will take me 2 hours!! I always have to account for ripping. These tools would make life a lot easier.
Kathy G.
It usually takes me 15 to 20 minutes to work on a waistband with elastic using the safety pin method. The new tools would certainly speed up the entire process. Very clever!
Patti
I haven’t timed it, but always longer than I think it will as the bodkin or safety pin either gets caught on a seam or I get 3/4 of the way through and “lose the grip” and have to start over. These new designs look intriguing!
Arlean Fry
Wow! Looks like you have really come up with a winner this
time. I would definitely like to win this set of tools. Inserting elastic in waistbands can really be frustrating. I
could definitely use one.
kathy
Sewing the waistband to a garment doesn’t take long-it always slows down when inserting the elastic. I can’t count how many times the elastic pulls though the casing and I need to start over. These tools are invaluable.
Jean D
I use a large safety pin and dread the process because it always feels cumbersome and takes much longer than it would with the proper tool 😉 These will make the process so much more efficient–thanks, Nancy, for once again creating just the right tool(s) for the job! …and, as always, for sharing great tips for sewing tasks like making a casing!
Shirley Clark
Oh my gosh! What a time saver these will be! I spend more time trying to use pins or that metal bodkin that keeps coming undone halfway through the waistband!
How much time? It all depends on how many times I have to start over. LOL
Connie Pluger
Haven’t really timed it. I usually use a giant safety pin. But it almost always gets stuck in the seams. That can really get on my nerves. And I try to save that pin for my sewing. After all who else would need to use a giant safety pin? But it almost always seems to disappear!
Sandra Paisley
How long? 15 minutes….30 minutes….depends on whether the darn thing gets hung up or slips off! I use a large safety pin (and have for more years than I care to remember). I would really like to have one of these tools. Seems like they would be especially good for arthritic fingers that don’t work as good as they used too. I just love the Nancy tips and she has taught me so much as I have tried to resurrect sewing skills after my recent retirement. Thanks so much.
Annette Holbrook
I’ve only made skirts with drawstrings as I have been losing weight and feel that it’s a more practical solution for now. The string itself seems to take FOREVER to turn right side out, the rest of it only takes a few minutes. So, I’m going to say maybe an hour for me.
Katie
These tools seem like they would cut my time and frustration in half! I probably spend as much time threading the elastic as I do sewing the casing. I hope to be able to make it a 10-15 minute sewing task!
Shirley Aufdenberg
As a long time 4-H clothing project leader, I am always trying new tools to make the project more fun. It usually takes close to 30 minutes to install the elastic and secure the ends. These tools would be welcome.
Anne
Wow — these tools are wonderful! what a time saver!
PamB
I use a big pin to ease the elastic into to the waistband. This looks like it would be so much smoother and less chance of twisting the elastic. I haven’t timed how long this takes me, it depends on what I am making.
TERESA MCMILLAN
I would love to try these tools! This would cut my elastic sewing time down dramatically!
Enid
I have no idea. I mostly use a large safety pin. I have problems with bodkins letting loose of the elastic.
Melanie
I know I spend way too much time, because sometimes “procrastination” has a way of creating another UFO. With these new items, I know I’ll be able to see every project through to the end.
Cyndi
What great new products! I can see many uses for them. Thank you for the give away!!
Bonnye
Too much time. I use a safety pin to thread the elastic. I have been unable to find a tool that does this. Until now. Thanks.
Bonnye
Judith Epstein
I use safety pins. One that fits in the casing so the elastic can be threaded, and a big old fashioned diaper safety pin at the other end so the elastic end does not slip through. These tools would be much better. Thanks.
Linda Jennings
I have used a large safety pin with the best results. I have the metal bodkin, but it has dropped the elastic in the middle of the process, causing me to start all over. I also have used the plastic kind that fit the different widths of elastic, and they break or jamb inside along the way. My best success has been with the diaper pins that are made with a locking fastener. I am open to new designs.
Christine Regan
I don’t do them often, so each one is like the first. It seems to take forevery, probably a few hours to get it right with the gathering.
Cheryl
Many, many,many hours sewing dance costumes for my daughter…
Ruth
Way too much time gets spent. These tools would be wonderful time savers. And it’s awful when a safety pin opens up in the middle–not only do you lose your elastic, but it’s difficult to get the pin back out.
Sunni
I learned to stitch down the side seams, from your programs, to prevent “road blocks” when gliding the pin w/the elastic through the waistband. It is always a chore and not the most fun thing to do for garment construction. I could spend a half hour on a simple waistband when the pin or elastic gets into a snaffu. I look for an easier time with your new tool Nancy.
Michelle C.
Oh WOW! I am new to sewing and these are going to have to go on my list of Must Haves! I find it very aggravating trying to using a large safety pin it gets lost in the feel of all that fabric. Thanks so much Nancy I love watching your how to’s it really helps a newbie!
Nancy Carr
Where can we find the bodkins – I keep looking, but so far haven’t found them.
Kathy Nelson
I have the hardest time when making doll clothes and threading elastic. I’ve even tried to put the elastic in like a hem. Didn’t work. I’m getting ready to make a dress with one of Nancy’s new patterns and it calls for an elastic waist, it sure would be nice it get one of these.
JaneH
I seem to be putting in elastic more often than in the past. Skirts, pj’s, athletic wear are my go to sewing projects so elastic will be happening weekly.