NEW: Search The Forums
Loading
Talk with Amber
Hi: I am setting up a separate discussion thread so that all Gatherings members have a place to get immediate attention to concerns, ideas, etc. I will be alerted each time there is a posting in this thread, so you can be assured of prompt response. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best,
Amber Eden
Editor
Print this page
Email this Message
(post #30821, reply #1 of 412)
That sounds really great. I think that you are getting closer to that great mix in the magazine. I hope that the questions about the designer we would love to meet coalesces into some articles.
Nandy
(post #30821, reply #2 of 412)
I agree! Keep those ideas coming!
(post #30821, reply #3 of 412)
Hi Amber,
I am glad to hear you will be notified every time there is a post on this thread. I have been following the problems our Aussie friends have been having with delivery of Threads. I just want to make sure you have all of the issues in one place.
1. Many, many Aussie subscribers have not received either the #126 or #127 issues of Threads.
2. Some of the subscribers have managed to talk to Customer Service and had their missing issues sent to them via AirMail.
3. Other subscribers have been told theirs will come surface mail and to expect them in 10-12 weeks. You are checking into this already. Is there a way to get all of the late issues AirMailed or to Australia quickly?
4. With issue #128 all of this should be corrected as you will have a new International Delivery Service. Is this correct?
5. Now there are questions as to how issues in the future will be sent to Australia. Can you tell us if they will be AirMail, Surface Mail, or another way so they will receive them in a timely manner?
6. Is there a way for Threads to check that every Aussie Subscriber actually received their issues of #126, 127 and in a little while #128? I am sure there are more subscribers who have not contacted you about there missing issues. I don't know your computer system, but I have some ideas, you can email me if you want ideas. I am sure your IT staff can do this for you. Maybe a postcard?
7. I am not trying to interfere in your business I just want to help our friends as best I can.
Thank you for listening, Jane
(post #30821, reply #4 of 412)
Jane: Thanks so much for your note. Taunton Press customer service is reading these posts as well and actively seeking a good solution. I'll pass on info as soon as I get it.
Thanks again for your concern. I know that it just indicates how much you value the magazine.
(post #30821, reply #5 of 412)
Dear Australian Readers: I have a memo update from customer service While I don't mind answering questions on this, it would be more efficient if you direct your questions straight to customer service at Customerservice@taunton.com. This issue is a top priority for them and they are vigilantly checking emails for notes from Australian readers
Now I can get back to finishing up 128! Thanks again for being so dedicated! Amber
The memo from customer service is as follows:
Dear Threads Readers: When we replaced issues via airmail, we thought the situation was an isolated late delivery incident. We never intended to treat any subscriber differently than any other subscriber. It takes weeks to identify that there is a problem with the general or mass delivery of our magazines. Our international shipper did recognize that there was a problem with the subcontractor handling Australian deliveries and arrangements were made with a new company. The new company is responsible for all future magazine deliveries beginning with THREADS issue # 128 and we have been advised that delivery times should be back to normal.
We are still investigating the problem and when we determine what happened, we will have a complete answer to all questions and we will address the needs of the subscribers affected by this situation. If you have further questions, the email address is Customerservice@taunton.com. For those of you who have purchased replacement issues, please write customer service at that address and we will extend your subscription accordingly.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while we work to resolve this issue.
--Taunton Press Customer Service
(post #30821, reply #6 of 412)
Dear Amber,
People have been suggesting subjects for future articles. I believe some have shown an interest in successful businesses involving sewing. Today, someone asked a question about making a man's ice skating costume. Now, I doubt that I am EVER going to do that, but I really, really, enjoyed reading the answer. It was fascinating information that could be applied to other sewing. I find articles on specialized subjects fun to read.
(post #30821, reply #9 of 412)
You are right---that's why the Q&A is one of our more popular sections.
(post #30821, reply #7 of 412)
I just read there is an older Threads that has a list of fabric shops in NYC. Would it be possible to do an update and produce a new list. Evidently it was a pullout section with the name address and telephone number. Thanks,
(post #30821, reply #8 of 412)
Yes, it's quite popular! I will add that to the list
(post #30821, reply #10 of 412)
Hello Amber,
I went to a denim seminar and found out about a kit that may be of interest to readers. You might want to have a product review about it in Threads.
The kit is a denim distressing kit and comes with tools, instructions and other supplies in order to "distress" denim. The kit is available at The Atrium in NYC at 644 Broadway but I hear that the store can't hold on to them. As soon as they get a supply, it is sold out. The kit is expensive: $300. But the kit is nevertheless very popular. The one I saw at the seminar was "The Gold Miner".
You may also want to check out the website for more info: www.denimdesignlab.com
Tomasa
(post #30821, reply #11 of 412)
Very cool. I will pass that on to our Notions editor
(post #30821, reply #12 of 412)
Dear Amber, I am one of the people who began subscribing to Threads after buying #1 from the newsstand. I have all of the issues. The early editions are actually individual small books. It's fun to check the online index when I need to solve a problem, and then search for the answers.
I would enjoy seeing a detailed article about the costumes in the Broadway production of The Lion King. Okay, I might settle for just a couple of the costumes!
Thanks,
wlric
(post #30821, reply #13 of 412)
Wow! That's a great idea.
(post #30821, reply #15 of 412)
We actually have a seamstress working for us who worked on those costumes and I have been thinking of just that article. Glad to see that I'm on the right track!
(post #30821, reply #16 of 412)
I, too, would love to see this idea.
I cannot offer expertise there, but I certainly could do a humorous "back page" article on sewing theatrical PROPS. I have just finished doing all manner of silly sewing for our regional theatre show, A Christmas Story. The working title would be, A Dog-Eaten Turkey and Other Textile Culinary Delights.....complete with pictures!
Jenna
(post #30821, reply #17 of 412)
I'm new to Threads( quite honestly I never knew it existed) but pretty old to sewing. Actually I used to sew alot years ago(even made my own wedding gown),somehow got away from it while I was working but really am enjoying getting back into it now. And I need all of the help and inspiration that I can get.
Back to Threads...since I have no history with it and of course can't say if it is better or worse,my only comment is that I would like it to be like my favorite magazine which is Photoshop Users. That magazine which is geared to digital imaging offers articles which appeal to both the professional as well as the novice. There is always something new and cutting edge presented as well as reviews of tried and true favorite techniques. There is a section geared towards teachers and a help desk. It is heavy on content which makes it well worth it's rather hefty $10 per an issue price. There has never been an issue where I have not learned something of use. Be assured that I am just a reader and have nothing to do with the magazine.
Increasingly I have not been renewing subscriptions to magazines that I have getting for years.....even if I can get them for practically nothing. The content is just not there anymore. I have actually received magazines recently that would use an entire page to show a picture of an apple or something similar. Just alot of fillers in my opinion.
I have enjoyed this site and its enthusiastic participants. Looking forward to Threads being all that we can hope it will be.
(post #30821, reply #18 of 412)
Thanks Paulette and glad to have you on board!
(post #30821, reply #19 of 412)
Hi Amber,
I've decided to continue purchasing my Threads Magazine from my local News Agency, theres delivery problems there too but I get it. Iwill continue to purchase it as long as I am able, I've been very fortunate if you don't cover something along comes my Stitches Magazine and theres my answer (most times any way). They compliment each other.
Can you tell me if the new Sew Stylish Magazine will be available in my News Agency? How often will it be released?
Thank's a bunch
Wally
(post #30821, reply #20 of 412)
As i said Amber on another area today i really am enjoying my threads.
I have not sewed for 20 years when the children grew out of mums sewing and i worked.
But now number one grandson has arrived and i started again and then progressed to me.
I have learnt how to bag line a jacket.
Sew zips better.
French seams are much better.
Leant to take in trousers.
And all this is three issues.
But i am wondering why in aust. or is just me i got 127 this week, i noticed the magazine on the web site is different to mine.???
denise
(post #30821, reply #22 of 412)
What issues have you received to date? We had some delivery problems in Australia and I want to make sure they are straightened out
(post #30821, reply #23 of 412)
Thankyou Amber
Yes up to date, thankyou.
looking forward to the one off pulication.
I am learning more and gaining more confidence with each issue.
Thankyou.
I think that it great that you are helping new sewers and people like me that are coming back having retired, and with grandchildren.
Afterall if you did not help knew sewers and us oldies well then the magazine would finish because there would be no new sewers.
Makes a lot of sense to me to help new comers in to the art of sewing.
IT seems easier after 20 years away from it, perhaps its the patterns or perhaps it is because i dont have little ones climbing all over me as i sew.
denise
(post #30821, reply #24 of 412)
Just wanted to let you know I received replacement issues 126 and 127 today - have had a quick look but I am saving them to read properly tonight after dinner!
Issues 128 and 129 have arrived normally and things seem to be back on schedule. I always find things of interest in each issue - sometimes more, sometimes less. I have all issues since #70 and find them an invaluable reference. I know that my interests and needs change as the years pass and what may not be of interest now may be useful in the future. I have subscribed to several magazines over the years - some ( Australian Smocking, Sew Beautiful, Handmade, Vogue patterns and numerous patchwork mags) I have discontinued because I felt they were becoming repetitive but I still buy the occasional indvidual copy at the newsagent if something catches my eye; others such as Australian Stitches I continue to subscribe to because I believe it is important to support them as there are too few sewing mags out there, but I often cull my old issues and pass them onto the local high school hoping to inspire some new young sewers. I think it is better for a magazine to grow and change rather than remain static - if it no longer suits you it is okay to move on to something else and retain the fond memories of the enjoyment it gave you - hopefully the new readers will find a similar enjoyment.
Good luck with your new ideas for Threads, Amber - I look forward to my next three years of issues.
Kind regards,
Pauline Webster (Melbourne, Australia)
(post #30821, reply #26 of 412)
Thanks! So happy to hear that deliveries are back on track!
(post #30821, reply #25 of 412)
You are so right---and the proof is in the pudding. Our sales and subscriptions are climbing substantially for the first time in years, rather than shrinking! That's a great sign for Threads and a great reversal of fortune.
(post #30821, reply #27 of 412)
Thankyou Amber for replying.
I am so glad, does that mean there is a revival in sewing in this so called affluent time.
Or is it us oldies coming back on board.
Wondered if you could give some tips for childrens sewing.
I had a problem with a zip for a 1 year old , i used stretched cotton a drill type fabric for a little pair of pants for him.
But the area is so small it is very fidlley. Video would be good as well.
I wondered if one could actually put the zip in before the side seems are sewn.
Also trends for todlers, as our daughters and daughters in law as we did before them like the children to look modern.
denise
(post #30821, reply #29 of 412)
Hello Denise,
What a wonderful idea you had: 'Tips For Sewing Childrens Clothing and Modern Fashion Trends'.
My Mother-in-Law sewed many items for my son when he was a baby..I made his blankets. He is now 5yrs. Mum is now sewing him a single bed quilt Log Cabin Style. Now, I am making his clothes.
It seems a lot of grandmother's have returned to sewing for their grandchildren, all have their own reasons for doing so and I would like to say Thanks to all.
The look on their little faces when given clothes 'made especially' for them by grandma is priceless.
I wish you well in your future sewing endeavours.
Kind regards, CP
(Sydney Australia)
Edited 1/21/2007 1:42 am by Cherrypops
Edited 2/4/2007 1:23 am by Cherrypops
(post #30821, reply #30 of 412)
Just to let you know i live in Tasmania.
I also quilt, I made a quilt to stay here when my grand children come and stay. and sleep in the cot i bought. we hopefully will have more grandchildren.
I tried to make a neutral one so i chose 1950 ( retro) fabric.
Our little one charles will be one on the 31st of this month the day after his mums birthday.
So as yet does not realise i make most of his little pants, but i am looking forward to when he knows and his little eyes light up just like they do now when i hold out my arms for a cuddle, us grandparents are so fortunate to have girls like your self in our life our daughters and daughters law.
denise
(post #30821, reply #32 of 412)
Hi Denise
Grandmothers are very special people. When my son was little, my mother was very enthusiastic about appliqued patterns on windcheaters. David would make a special request, and a week or so later a new windcheater would arrive in the mail, with the picture requested. His collection ended up including trains, a lion with a baby lion, an elephant, and a very special one that had a white horse on the front, a black horse on the back, and lightening bolts on each sleeve! By the time he was 8, he was less interested in clothes with pictures, but at age 21 he still has very fond memories of the made to order windcheaters!
Susannah
(post #30821, reply #33 of 412)
thankyou Suzannah
I think Charles will be the same
denise
(post #30821, reply #31 of 412)
Thanks for the suggestions---my mother in law just made the same request yesterday!