In this Issue:

• Tips for Success
• Working with Nylon
• Before you Begin...
• Recipe
• Thought and Verse

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. When using a Teflon sheet for MiracleBond and other adhesives, scrape it with a plastic card or spatula between each use. The glue can build up on the sheet and be transferred back onto your fabric.
2. If you are using dimensional bond to outline, cut the tip a little wider on the bottle. This allows for a smoother, more even line without the muscle strain.
3. Getting glue on certain fabrics such as satin can be a disaster. Try to keep you fingers out of the glue as much as possible. Keep a damp sponge and paper towels handy just in case. Whenever possible use toothpicks to press strands of sequins down instead of getting my fingers in the glue.
4. When gluing decorations or using fabric paint work from top to bottom. It is easy to forget that something is wet or not completely set. If you can't do this, allow time for glued items or paint to dry before working directly over them.

WORKING WITH NYLON

Be very careful if you are working with nylon. This fabric has a very low melting point. If you are using miracle bond or any other type of iron-on embellishment test a small piece first. You will also need to take extra precautions to protect your work surface. Perhaps consider using another Teflon Sheet underneath.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR BANNER MINISTRY

Plan. There is no substitution for planning. I have often heard it said that when we fail to plan we plan to fail. Don't be afraid to ask for help. A lot of the churches and groups we work with have banner committees or clubs.

Give yourself plenty of time. Allow for the things that might and will go wrong. I know this is not always possible as inspiration strikes at the final hour. But be realistic about your goals. Give yourself at least a couple of weeks.

Measure and Measure again. Get someone to help you. It is a good idea to get a sheet that is a similar size to what you have in mind. Have someone hold it up or tack it up someway so that you can get a good idea of what size will look good in your auditorium. Will it overwhelm the auditorium or will people in the back have to squint to see it?

Color: Some churches want biblical colors in relation to a symbolic theme with no reference to surroundings. Others do not want their banners to clash with the walls, carpet or pews. Either way, our catalog colors are very accurate. If you are still uncertain, consider ordering a sample card. Our sample cards can also give you a better idea about the texture and feel of a fabric. We now offer the option of fabric/color changes for a small fee on most kits and banners.

Lined or Unlined: An unlined banner is just a single piece of fabric that is double hemmed and has a pole sleeve at the top. This type of banner is typically displayed hanging on a wall or a T-pole close to a wall. You would not want to consider an unlined banner if your stage has a lot of back lighting.

A lined banner is two pieces of fabric sewn together with a pole sleeve at the top. Although this option costs a little bit more, it does drape better and makes a nicer looking banner. This is the option you would choose if you want to process with your banner or just want a better presentation.

Recipe from Tena

Tena is our bookkeeper. She keeps us fed and happy. We LOVE her. Here is her recipe for Peach Cobbler.

• 1 Cup Self Rising Flour
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Cup Milk
• 1 Stick Butter
• 1 Can Sliced Peaches undrained (or canned fruit in heavy syrup of your choice)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix the first three ingredients; melt the butter in a 9 x 12 baking pan. Pour the flour mixture over the butter. Pour the fruit over this. Put in oven for about 45 minutes.

Thought and verse:

No matter how much you nurse a grudge, it won't get better.

"And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32