The use of shish-kabob skewers is simply wonderful! I've used metal implements,
(dental picks even!) and goose quills (that I paid too much for). I've been working on
items for our Church bazaar and found the skewers are simply the best! It took a while
to get used to them because they're a lot more flexible but you can sew over them (by
mistake) without damaging your machine.
If you're stuffing little fingers or arms in teddy bears or dolls, etc., I've found that
chopsticks work great! They don't pierce the fabric and you can really pack the stuffing
in tightly!
I make a lot of potholders and have for years. Since the one I keep for myself is usually
the test one, sometimes I get pieces that fray a bit. I've found that odd bits and ends of
lace are the PERFECT patch. The lace is strong, uses up leftover pieces and dresses
up that old' potholder. Just sew it with a good zigzag. Trims also work well. Pre-shrink
first, of course!