New Here with Question About Aplix

[Kim7213]

Hi everyone! I'm Kim, and I love CDing my 5 1/2 month old ds. I'm very new to sewing in general, but I decided to jump right in and start with diapers. I'm only on my 4th diaper now. I got a new machine after my 2nd one, and it does not like zig-zagging the aplix on. It was a breeze on the old machine (which I returned). For those who use aplix/touchtape, what length and width do you use for the zig-zag? Do you have to zig-zag, or can you just use a straight stitch?

[boscopup]

What kind of needle are you using? You want a SHARP (regular point) needle, not a ball point. So I wonder if that's part of your problem. Also, try putting a NEW sharp needle in there.

If that doesn't work, then it may be that your machine doesn't like it for some reason, which that would not be good, now would it?

As far as how to sew it on... I usually do a stitch width of about 4 and a stitch length of 2.5. I've done wider than that - like 6.5 (max my machine will do), but I like a narrower zig-zag for aestethic purposes. You CAN use a straight stitch with aplix. I think it actually looks better anyway. The downside is that the edges of the aplix aren't flush against the fabric, and thus they could get a tiny bit scratchy. Some people will take purchased diapers and zig-zag the aplix to avoid the scratchies (although in my own experience, it tends to be the hook itself, not the edge of the aplix... just depends on the design though).

So in short... I'd check the needle first, and if that doesn't work, try straight stitching.

[earthenware]

:

Sometimes if I am really having a problem I will trim the outside line of hooks off so that it's more of a smooth surface. I have started using a straight stitch, though, and prefer it (less snags and tangles).

[Kim7213]

Sorry, I should have put this in my post. I was using a brand spanking new needle...14/90 universal I believe. If I can get the kiddos entertained for a little while, I'll try doing a straight stitch. Thanks for the help!

[earthenware]

Good luck! Sewing on the hook-side aplix is my least favorite part of making diapers. I go twice around with the straight stitch, BTW.

[our3boys]

Originally Posted by Kim7213

I was using a brand spanking new needle...14/90 universal I believe.

I use a size 12 needle for the Aplix. But I'm not sure if it would make a difference or not...

[JLav]

I use monofilament nylon thread when I'm sewing Aplix...it works much better, imo, for sewing the hook part on. My machine would practically refuse to sew it until I tried that.

[ILuvLucia&Mia]

Hi, Kim! I'm new here, too & lovin' it!

I've never sewed Aplix on my dipes, but does it have a sticky side? Sometimes the sticky stuff will gunk my needle all up and that's just not good. I've always just used regular Velcro for my dipes, but now I'm getting more into it, so I've just ordered some Touch Tape to try. Anyhow, I've used both zig zag and straight stitches on the velcro and I seem to prefer the straight stitch. I'm somewhat new to sewing as well, so the straight stitch is just easier for me.

[Amys1st]

JLAv- empty your pm box so I can pm you!
sorry ladies, now back to your talk!

[Nothingbutbreast]

I use jean needle (denium) No issues

[Jes'sBeth]

try fiddling with the tension too. You're definately not alone though... I had to sew the hook part on my swap diaper twice because the stupid hook caught the thread and it got tangled and looked icky when I was done. So, you rip it off and start over. It's just part of diaper making.

If it helps, it does get easier with practise as you get to know your materials and machine better. I'd definately use a new and thicker needle to get through the aplix. I usually straight stitch the hook part as well. Zig zag is just asking for trouble with the hook. I do like to zig zag the loop on though. I can't remember what settings I use there. Probably 4 width and 1-2 length I usually do a test stitch swatch first.

[Jayneysews]

In the past when I have had to sew vecro,for that is all we get here,on really tough stuff,I have opted to use my zipper foot,thus enabling me to carefully sew,hust the outer rim of it,of course you CANNOT,sew zig zag with a zipper foot!