We are in an amazing age when people can relax more about taking pictures. No longer do you have to wait until you have the perfect lighting to be able to snap a good shot. Nowadays, you can use the photo software that comes with most new computers or digital cameras to make even so-so pictures look better with just a couple adjustments.
It might take a bit of experimenting with your new photo editing software to learn all of the tools and the different options available. But many of the newest versions have some basic automated functions that can very quickly improve your photos without the need of a degree in graphic design.
One of the most basic adjustments that can be made with good photo software, such as Adobe Photoshop, and also one that quickly makes a big difference, is the adjustment for lightening the picture. Every brand of photo editing software includes options that allow you to adjust the brightness and the contrast levels of a picture by simply moving a couple sliders in a special dialog box.
As you move the sliders you will be able to see the changes to the picture. When you get it just the way you like it, you can choose to make those changes, usually just by clicking on "OK." Just remember to also go to the file menu to save the pictures permanently.
If you are not sure about the changes that you are making with the software, then you can go up to the file menu and choose "Save As," which will let you create a copy that has your changes and will leave the original file untouched. You might want to re-name the photo so that you can easily recognize the file, or you can just add a letter or number at the end of the original file name.
If you are working with files that come from a digital camera, then you will find in most cases that the file names are just a series of letters and numbers that almost seem random. If you are going to be doing a lot of editing with your photo editing tool, then it is a good idea to develop some sort of standard naming system and convert the file names so you can easily identify your digital pictures. Using a combination of a good file naming scheme with a good system of file folders will be helpful and will help you keep your hard drives organized as well.
Many photo editing programs also have a function that helps you to organize and categorize your digital pictures. This is important if you will be taking digital pictures on a regular basis, as you can soon find that sorting through folder after folder of digital images to find that one photo can be frustrating. It is best when dealing with a lot of photos to use image management software to make your life easier.
Once you have had a chance to do some basic adjustments to some of your images with your photo software, you may decide you want to delve in and learn about some of the more advanced features. There are some great software downloads sites that have some plug-in software tools to add features to different photo editing software. And, while you are online searching for those, drop by some of the forums for tips and tricks from power users.
A tailor's cushion is convenient for shaping the fabric when making dressmaker suits or coats, one may be purchased, but it is easy to make. It should be made of a heavy closely woven fabric such as drill cloth.
Wash and press the fabric. Then cut two oval pieces which are wider at one end than the other. Make them about 14" long and 10" wide at the widest part. Stitch the two pieces together taking a 1/2" seam. Leave an opening at the narrow end. Turn seam to the inside and fill with clean, dry sand or sawdust. Turn edges of opening to inside and whip closed by hand.
When pressing fabrics, first consider their fiber content, and then their texture. Fiber content determines the pressing temperature, whereas texture determines how the fabric is to be handled.
When cutting the fabric it is a good idea to save any fairly large scraps to test pressing and machine stitching. These scraps are also useful for mending, altering, or re-styling a garment, should the need occur.
Always test for correct pressing temperature on a scrap of the fabric before pressing sections of the garment. The fabric-dial on the iron is your guide for heat control. The lowest indicator is for fabrics requiring low temperature: nylon, rayon, acetates, etc. Use a press cloth over synthetic fabrics and blends. Press dry.
Sheer cottons and linens require a slightly higher temperature than silk. Either may be steam pressed without the protection of a dry cloth.
The fabric-dial set at "wool press" gives a hot steam that is moist enough for a good finish when pressing wool and worsteds. Press on the wrong side, but do not press dry. Then, while still moist, brush right side of fabric lightly. If it is necessary to press on the right side, put a wool faced press cloth, or a piece of the same wool fabric, over area to be pressed. Allow steam to thoroughly penetrate layers of fabric.
This helps to prevent shine on smooth fabrics, and the matting of nap fabrics. Heavy cotton and linen require the most heat. An iron may be used directly on these fabrics unless they are dark colored. Use a press cloth to prevent shine on thick seams and on dark colors. Press fabric dry.
When steaming velvet or velveteen set dial for "wool". Use steam only. Do not bring iron in contact with the fabric. Drape a damp Turkish towel over the iron. While holding wrong side of velvet close to towel draw it back and forth thus allowing steam to penetrate. Or, place fabric, right side down, over velvet press board or wool press pad. Hold iron close to fabric brushing it lightly and distributing steam evenly. Press seams open with finger tips and steam by holding iron slightly above the seam.
There is no substitute for good pressing for the custom-made look in dressmaking and tailoring. To achieve this result the skillful presser has developed the light touch, that is, the knack of lifting and placing her iron on the fabric lightly.
She has also learned to lift the fabric into position with both hands. Also she smoothes the fabric with the palms of her hands, keeping the grains of the fabric at right angles. She uses her finger tips to open seams. She presses with the grain of the fabric.
She knows how important pressing is to a well fitted garment; how it is used to smooth and mold the fabric. How, not only to stitch darts, but also how to press them so they serve their purpose, and disappear into the contours of the garment.
She knows that pleats must lies smoothly. that necklines must conform to contour, that collar and cuff edges should be sharp and thin, and that hems should not reveal their width.
With a little time and practice you will be able to become an expert presser.
Both Mike Selvon & Jimmy Cox are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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