Sewing Shortcuts Worth Knowing
Sewing Shortcuts Worth Knowing
Simple tricks that save time and make sewing easier 🧵✂️
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, sewing becomes much more enjoyable when you learn a few helpful shortcuts. These small techniques can save time, reduce frustration, and help your projects come together more smoothly.
At Johnson Heirloom, we believe sewing should be both creative and relaxing. Knowing a few smart shortcuts can make your time in the sewing room more productive and fun.
Here are some of our favorite sewing shortcuts every quilter and sewist should know.
Chain Piecing for Faster Sewing
Chain piecing is one of the most popular quilting shortcuts. Instead of cutting thread between each piece, you sew multiple fabric units continuously in a chain.
Why It Works
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Saves thread
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Keeps your sewing machine running smoothly
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Allows you to piece blocks much faster
Simply feed the next set of fabric pieces into the machine as the previous set finishes sewing. After several units are sewn, clip the threads between them.
This technique is perfect for quilt blocks, half-square triangles, and strip piecing.
Use Leaders and Enders
Leaders and enders are small scrap pieces you sew at the beginning and end of a seam.
Benefits
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Prevents thread nests at the start of stitching
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Uses up small fabric scraps
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Helps you build another project at the same time
Many quilters use this technique to slowly create scrap quilts while working on larger projects.
Press Seams in Batches
Instead of stopping to press after every seam, sew several pieces first and then press them all at once.
Why It Saves Time
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Reduces constant trips to the ironing board
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Keeps your sewing momentum going
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Allows you to organize pieces more efficiently
Batch pressing is especially helpful when making multiple quilt blocks.
Use Fabric Clips Instead of Pins
Fabric clips can be a great alternative to traditional pins, especially when working with thicker fabrics.
Why Sewists Love Them
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Faster than pinning
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Easier to remove while sewing
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Great for binding, bags, and layered fabrics
Clips also reduce the risk of accidentally sewing over pins.
Keep a Scrap Basket Nearby
Instead of throwing away leftover fabric pieces, keep a scrap basket nearby while you sew.
These scraps can be used later for:
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Scrap quilts
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Patchwork projects
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Appliqué shapes
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Leaders and enders
Over time, those small pieces can turn into beautiful new projects.
Final Thoughts
Sewing shortcuts may seem small, but they can make a big difference in how smoothly your projects come together. Techniques like chain piecing, batch pressing, and using leaders and enders help you work faster while keeping your sewing organized.
The more you sew, the more helpful shortcuts you’ll discover that make your time in the sewing room even more enjoyable.
At Johnson Heirloom, we love sharing helpful tips that make quilting and sewing easier for makers of every skill level.
Because sometimes the best sewing trick is simply learning how to work a little smarter — and still enjoy every stitch. 🧵✨
