I've been trying to turn little tubes of fabric to use as legs and arms on my art dolls. The first took me 20 minutes (I kid you not), then I tried to buy a 'loop turner' on the web, US sites don't do international! - then I found one on ebay, seller broke her ankle so waited many many days and it arrived yesterday. Now, I thought, here I go full steam ahead - no! managed to do 2 tubes, and the rest just wouldn't turn. This gadget has a hook that you insert up the tube and then close the latch - BUT sometimes the gremlins are at work and the latch stays closed only till half-way down the tube - I've improvised with a bodkin and thread! So did I really need that gadget, hmmmm. I am now on the lookout for something else to use for the arms. Any ideas, anyone?? I have lots of art dolls nearly finished so will post photos soon.
Have you seen the latest fibreandstitch freebies. Terri is using a turning tube in that. Much easier than the hook versions. If you google doll supplies you will find plenty of US suppliers prepared to post to uk
ReplyDeleteI love your art dolls and admire your patience turning those little arms and legs! They really are hard to do! Melinda
ReplyDeleteMelinda, tell me about it!! It was a case of determination winning the day! Evie x
ReplyDeleteThere is a wonderful device here (USA) called a fasturn, if you wish, and can't get one, I will send one to you. Comes in 2 sizes, small to medium, and medium to large. G Street Fabrics has them (I work there) and will surely ship, though that may be expensive. Let me know if I can help... Kim
ReplyDeletesorry, I should have given you the URL. www.gstreetfabrics.com. I am Kim Gibson, if you need to contact me.
ReplyDeleteHi Evie...I use a pair of plyers from my beading tools. I move the fabric down and grab the end and squeeze while turning the fabric. Sometimes the tube is so long that I have to do this a few times. I have also used a small stick to help me get the fabric turned. Hmm... maybe this tool is easier. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Sue, My turn-it tools have arrived and of course it's Sod's Law as I'd already turned the tubes I needed. But at least I'm ready for the next time!!
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