Rosie the "Ripper"

I have noticed that many quilters have their sewing machine set up in front of a window. I do too since I love the great light and also I have a beautiful view. But,,,,,I just recently took a class where the teacher cautioned against this. She said that the sunlight will yellow or discolor the back of your machine (or whichever side you have facing the window). It will also dry rot and bleach out the thread and fabric if they are left there for any length of time. Never thought about this before but it does make you stop and wonder. What are your thoughts?

Scissor Queen

I can't see with light shining in my face so I never set my machine in front of a window.

dakotamaid

If you have low E windows that help filter the sun rays that shouldn't be a problem. However, if your windows are older she may have a point.:)

I too have difficulty sewing in front of a window. I prefer filtered light and a good task lamp.

isnthatodd

My window faces north and never gets direct sun, but does get lots of light.

LisaGibbs

I don't keep the thread on there long enough for this to happen. I had made a sewing machine cover for my machine years ago that looked like a bunny doll and the skirt covered the machine and it did fade badly after a year or so. I would just keep it covered with something if that is a concern before I would give up a beautiful view while sewing.

QuiltnNan

i have the window light coming from the side. but i also have a gooseneck lamp shining on the needle area. i need lots of light to see what i'm doing.

SparkMonkey

Same here, plus my sewing room is actually a second-floor loft so it's open to the downstairs on one side. The ambient light from downstairs really helps brighten the space, especially in the morning (the open side is east-facing).

I prefer north-facing windows in sewing rooms. The light is still plenty bright, but never harsh or glaring, which can get tiresome to the eyes. It's also more consistent through the day, which is great for handwork.

Candace

I try to keep my machine covered when not in use and we have filmed windows to reduce fading etc. My machine doesn't sit directly in front of a window either.

jfowles

I face a window but only get the late afternoon sun in m face, then I just tilt the blinds a little. I love the light coming in, plus my new sewing room is yellow and white (yellow carpet too), I love how light and warm it is, my little sanctuary.

qbquilts

I don't have mine set up in front of the window. My room takes the direct afternoon sun and mine blinds are closed to try and help with the afternoon/early evening heatup that occurs :-(. Plus, I like having mine back up to my craft desk, because it gives me plenty of support when I'm doing FMQ.