Tailor's Tip #49: Pre-washing Fabric with Shampoo

I thought it would be good to create a special set of posts dedicated to my tips. After 53+ years I have a good plenty (smile). This is my first such post but my tips will be randomly numbered. There's just simply no fun going in chronological order. Ok, now on to my tip I get asked all the time what is a good detergent to prewash fabrics in. And to that I give the same reply I've been giving for years-----Hair Shampoo! That's right, I recommend hair shampoo. And not just anyone---I recommend my favorite which is Creme of Nature.

(Older packaging some of you may be familiar with......)

(....newest packaging but the same great product!)

 The reason being is it's not only a cleaning shampoo but also a conditioning one. It's perfect for cottons, washable silks and rayons. I recommend testing a scrap in wash if you're unsure of the results. I have to admit the conditioner acts as a fabric softener as well. Not much is needed since it's concentrated and depends on your load size. A medium load usually calls for 1-2 cap fulls. So I recommend you give it a try- you won't be disappointed. And of course my disclaimer is please test any fabrics aside from the one's I listed. Enjoy this tip and look out for more in the future!!!!

Summer Workshop Registration Deadline Approaching.....

Hello All! We're 6 days away from the May 20th Summer workshop registration deadline.  UPDATED 6/21/14: Registration is OPEN until classes fill up. Please register at least 7 days until the event. A 50% class deposit is due upon time of registration. Please email me at GentlemanJimMT@gmail.com to do so.I'm excitedly preparing the studio and getting ready for all who have registered. If you are planning on attending and haven't registered yet please email me asap so I can secure you a seat in your workshop of choice. Again here are the workshops I'm teaching and corresponding dates.  You can also read workshop descriptions at  this link HERE.

2014 Summer Sewing Workshop Schedule

Tailored Jackets ------------June 5-7 (Thur-Sat)

           Pants Fitting/Construction-----June 19-20 (Thur-Sat)

             Master Skill Sharpening ----------July 10-12 (Thur-Sat)

    Tailored Jackets-------------July 24-26 (Thur-Sat)

         Tailored Coats (outerwear)--August 7-9 (Thur-Sat)

     TBD*------------------------August 21-23 (Thur-Sat)

*I'm taking suggestions for this class. Let me know your ideas!!!!    

I hope you will consider attending! These courses are a worthy investment and will improve your sewing/fitting skill dramatically!