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No need to stick your neck out

By EUNICE FARMER Special to the Times
Published January 18, 2007

Q: As I get older, my neck isn't too attractive. Please help me find a blouse that has a higher neckline and yet isn't a turtleneck.

A: I have selected Vogue 8152, sizes 6-20, a pattern that also features two other necklines. The one with the higher neckline is perfect to wear under any jacket and also is beautiful when worn without one.

Tricky pants alteration

Q: I have a problem with ready-made pants. They are always too short in the crotch seam for me. Is it possible to alter the pants? If so, what should I do?

A: You can machine stitch the crotch seam slightly lower and clip again. Be careful not to change the seam too radically. If it's too long, a major alteration is required.

This week's winner

Each week, a reader wins a prize for sending in a helpful sewing hint. This week's winner is Donna Cono of Saylorsburg, Pa. She will receive a collection of 100 hand-sewing needles from England. From the finest of fabrics to the heaviest, you will have the right needle at hand. Her tip:

"To avoid pulling knots through your work when quilting, use an extra-long length of thread, pull the thread to the half-way point, then begin to quilt. When finished, rethread your needle and go back to the half-way point and continue quilting the other way. Instead of hiding four knots, you only have two as you 'end off.' "

You, too, could win a collection of hand-sewing needles. Send your sewing tips to Eunice Farmer, Box 31729, St. Louis, MO 63131, or to the e-mail address below. If she selects your tidbit for publication, you'll receive this prize.

[Last modified January 17, 2007, 21:30:02]