Jane Kallinger

Whether you’re sewing or embroidering, the textile arts require a lot of patience. If you’re new to these crafts, you may feel intimidated by the amount of time and effort each project will require. Thankfully, there are stitches which can make your life easier! The blanket stitch is perhaps the most beginner-friendly stitch out there. … Read more

Wondering how to slip stitch? The slip stitch (abbreviated sl st in any documents you might encounter) is not so much a working stitch as it is a means to connect two pieces of fabric, hide a hem or edge, move yarn to another area of your piece, and to finish your stitch altogether. It … Read more

Learning how to sew a zipper can be one of the most intimidating skills to learn when you’re just starting out with sewing — and invisible zippers sound even scarier! But once you actually learn how to sew in a zipper, you’ll find that they’re actually not that difficult: they just need a little bit … Read more

Wondering how to sew a collar? If you’ve recently taken up sewing, or it’s something you’re well versed in, you’ll know how tricky the finer parts of garments are. Getting the cuffs, frills, lapels, and collars right can be a nightmare – and fudging on those areas can cause an entire project to look shoddy. … Read more

Learning how to use a sewing pattern is an important skill to master for beginner sewists. When you first start sewing, you may be able to easily sew things like pillows and curtains and simple skirts, but if you want to start making more complicated clothing, you’ll have to buy patterns — or find them … Read more

Dresses are the go-to outfits for special occasions, the perfect way to slip on a sheath of confidence for a job interview or date, and a great way to flatter figures of all kinds. No human body is the same. We come in all shapes and sizes, from shapely hourglasses to powerful triangles to plump … Read more

Wondering how to make a tutu? Tutus will always be associated with princesses, ballet, and flouncy clothing that makes you feel happy. Making your own tutu isn’t hard, and can serve as a wonderful gift to a daughter, niece, or for yourself (no judgment, especially if there’s an abundance of glitter!) Whether you’re a ballerina … Read more

Working out how to sew a dress can seem a lot like magic. For a beginner, it’s that crazy kind of magic you have to sell your soul to obtain. How in the world do you get a square stretch of fabric into a shapely ensemble you can rock with a great pair of heels … Read more

Finding out how to sew a buttonhole is a big step for beginner sewists. No matter how much you’re sewing, if you keep at it long enough, you’ll almost definitely run into a project where you need to sew a buttonhole. Though it can seem scary, and you may be tempted to just cut a … Read more

If you’re new to knitting, there are a variety of stitches that you can learn to jump-start your new hobby. What is seed stitch knitting? Knit stitches and purl stitches, among numerous other types, are a part of the beginner’s arsenal, a necessary technique for anyone who wants to start learning the art. If you … Read more

Wondering how to sew binding on a quilt? Quilts can come in all kinds of patterns, colors, shapes, and sizes, but one thing they all have in common is that the edges are bound in some way. The binding is a ‘border’ for the quilt, containing all the rough, frayed edges of the sewn-together fabric … Read more

One question we hear time and time again — especially from newbie sewers — is what sewing machine needle to use? There are a surprising number of needles you you’ll likely come across when using your sewing machine — especially if you plan on clothes making. One thing that can be intimidating for beginners is choosing the right set … Read more

One of the questions we get asked a lot is how to sew a pocket. And it’s easy to see why… What’s the worst part about shopping for clothes? For women, it might be finding the perfect pair of pants, only to discover there are no pockets. Where am I supposed to put my wallet? … Read more

Whether you have an accidental tear in your denim, want to fix up old jeans, or just want to move on from the fashion of frayed jeans, there’s no need to throw a perfectly good pair away – especially when you can patch it! It’s not that hard to learn how to sew a patch … Read more

Tent dresses are currently all the rage. Known also as trapeze dresses, tent dresses are versatile – making them perfect for a stroll in the park, an outdoor dinner, or warm summer evenings, thanks to their breezy design. While you can buy your own from stores, there are many ways to create your very own … Read more

Are you seeking a fabric that creates professional-quality outfits, but without the need for tricky parts like lining, hemming, or finishing? Or are you looking to expand your repertoire into an interesting modern fabric? Something sturdy and stylish, which can be used for a wide variety of projects – from form-fitting pencil skirts to long, … Read more

Sheer fabrics are undeniably beautiful, but many sewists hate to work with them. As beautiful as they are, sheer fabrics are finicky, delicate, and require great attention to detail. On the other hand, they do produce some of the best clothing pieces, and look good on almost anyone and anything. If you decide to work … Read more

If you’re new to sewing, you may notice that your garments seem unprofessional. While there may be several contributing factors, the most common reason is that it lacks structure and support. Beginners don’t often realize that a garment is not just composed of one type of fabric. Outer fabrics are generally supported by other types … Read more

Your bed is a space for relaxation and luxury, so why not turn it into something fit for royalty? A bed canopy is a great way to add flair and drama to any bedroom, but it can be functional too. This design can create privacy, especially for light sleepers who are easily awakened by early-risers … Read more

Once you know where to look, harem pants are everywhere. In yoga studios, in Aladdin, on models and actors—harem pants are worn by pretty much everyone. It’s not hard to understand why. These pants are both comfy and stylish, making them the perfect fashion statement for everyone, be it celebrities or someone headed out for … Read more

Corsets are one of the most popular — albeit misunderstood – pieces of period clothing around. Developing your own may be complicated, but it can help you make leaps and bounds with your sewing skills. Should you tackle this project? From hobbyists creating modern-day equivalents, to critics who state that corsets are a health hazard, … Read more

Itching to teach your kids how to sew, but aren’t sure where to start? This guide has got you covered. Here, we’ll discuss what age is appropriate for your kids to learn to sew, how to pick out the best kids’ sewing machine, and a few sewing ideas for your kids. By the end, you’ll … Read more

Are you a knitter or crocheter, looking for a project that can easily comfort your loved ones in times of hardship? Then you’ve come to the right place. Why not knit or crochet them a prayer shawl? This project is not only fun, but can also serve as an excellent gift, a religious symbol, or … Read more

Gloves are one of the most overlooked aspects of a person’s attire, but they’re also one of the most important. They can add a subtle boost to any formal wear, or add dramatic flare to a casual outfit. On top of that, gloves are as functional as they are aesthetically pleasing. You can easily stave … Read more

Headbands are a great and versatile accessory that can upgrade any wardrobe. From the fun and chic to the formal and elegant, headbands can be your best friend. What’s even better, handmade headbands are an excellent project for those who are beginning to sew! Headbands require very minimal sewing, and you can use almost any … Read more

A question we get a lot is beginner sewists wondering how to sew curtains. Curtains are one of the easiest and most useful things to make: it can be very difficult to find just the right curtains for your windows, and making them yourself means you can make them exactly to your own personal preference. … Read more

If you don’t know how to sew leather, you’ve come to the right place. Sewing leather is a practice as old as mankind putting a needle to thread. Regardless of the kind of sewing setup you have at home, you’ll need different tools for leather sewing than for standard thinner fabrics. We’ve compiled this complete … Read more

Slipping on a pair of knit mittens in the winter can be one of the best feelings in the world. They’re so soft and warm, and they make great gifts for your loved ones. With so many great mitten patterns available, it’s difficult to know where to start. Is it as easy as it looks? … Read more

When it comes to bags, there are a wide range of types – but nothing beats the simplicity of a tote bag. A tote bag is defined to be a large bag with parallel handles, making them a very versatile design. Tote bags can be simple, to niche, to even designer! This design is also … Read more

When it comes to getting work done, be it in school or the workplace, food is always important. What’s the best way to ensure you have the energy you need? By packing lunch, of course! If you’re packing lunch every day, you may want to move away from a flimsy paper bag. Thankfully it’s super … Read more

Sewing and quilting is great fun, but sometimes, huge pieces of fabric are a lot to deal with! Measuring and cutting an entire yard of fabric to reach your desired size can be time-consuming, and you may not even get the most accurate measurements. After all, the larger the fabric, the harder it will be … Read more

As a parent, you know the magic of baby blankets. They keep your baby clean, calm, and comfortable. Of course, not all blankets are created equal. Some are too scratchy, others too heavy. When it comes to your baby, you’ll want nothing but the best. So why not make a blanket custom-tailored just for them? … Read more

A table cloth is a great way to protect and decorate a table. Table runners, on the other hand, add an extra dimension to your table setting. Since it’s easy to switch out one runner for another, you can easily use them to create a theme for your table setting or tie together the décor … Read more

When you feel like your home is beginning to get a little drab, have you considered changing up your curtains? Curtains are a wonderful home décor option that many people overlook. Not only are they stylish, but they can be great for privacy! If you’re the type to DIY, you’ve probably thought about creating your … Read more

Shopping for the right clothes is difficult, but it’s even harder with swimsuits. Whether it’s too revealing, too small, too big, or just plain ugly, shopping for swimsuits can be a whole ordeal. Thankfully, swimsuits are an item you can make yourself! Admittedly, sewing your own swimwear is more difficult than sewing other types of … Read more

It can be daunting to take up a new skill like sewing, especially if you’re not sure you have the right materials. Perhaps you already have a sewing machine or are thinking about getting one, and are asking yourself, what do I need to start sewing? Here are all the sewing machine accessories you need when … Read more

If you are new to sewing or self-taught, you may want to learn how to thread a bobbin on a sewing machine. Sewing machines can sometimes feel like daunting pieces of machinery, but if you take the time to learn how to use your machine, it can save you many headaches. Threading a bobbin is … Read more

Do you want to create your own duvet cover? How hard is it, and how does a duvet differentiate from a basic comforter? Whether you place a duvet or a comforter over your sheets, there is no denying these simple, quilted, blanket-like bags of fluff easily make your bed a more comfortable and stylish haven … Read more

Want to learn how to make a tufted headboard on your own time? Then you’ve come to the right place. Creating a DIY upholstered headboard is easier and more exciting than you may think. As a bonus, it lets you imbue your bedroom furniture with a unique look that can’t be replicated by anyone else. … Read more

Cushion covers are one of those fun, simple projects that every beginning sewist should try out. They’re easy to make, and great to have around the house! While they can be crucial décor in a room, it can be hard to find the one cover to bring your room together. Shops can offer the same … Read more

Properly caring for your tools is the number one rule for crafters. If you’re a sewist, the most important tool you have in your arsenal is the sewing machine. Composed of many different moving parts, a sewing machine needs excellent care to remain in tip-top shape. To accomplish this, a dust cover or protective cover … Read more

If you’re a quilter, then you’ve likely anguished over the more difficult elements of your craft. Bringing a long arm quilting machine into your home, with the convenience it offers, may, in turn, sound tempting. There are positives and negatives to the integration of these machines with your quilting practice. Even so, they remain a … Read more

Is that hem looking too boring or bland? Why not give it ruffles? Ruffles are a great way to provide hems with a cheap yet fancy upgrade. And, with a bit of practice, they are quick and easy to make. The greatest aspect of ruffles is their ability to enhance any hem, as they are … Read more

Searching for a baby blanket size guide? We’ve got you covered. Expecting a child can be an exciting time for couples. After all, it is quite fun to think of how to decorate your future child’s rooms and imagine what their life will hold in store for both you and for them. However, this sort … Read more

Elbow patches on professors may not be considered the height of fashion today, but the process by which those patches were applied is surprisingly well-integrated into the world of textiles. Appliqué, or the process of attaching one piece of fabric to another, is a practice that allows for more than just a dignified appearance at … Read more

Have you ever wondered how to make your own clothes? For those who love creating things with their hands, chances are, the thought has crossed your mind. Unfortunately, making clothes can be intimidating. There is, after all, a lot to the process! While sewing may be complex, learning how to sew clothes isn’t too hard … Read more

Have you ever considered making your own lingerie? It may seem like a weird concept, but it can be a great decision, both creatively and financially. After all, chances are you got into crafting and DIY to save money, and there’s nothing quite like the expense of a good bra alone. As something that you … Read more

Crafts are wonderful. They make great presents for almost anyone in your life, and they are a wonderful way to spend your day. Learning crafts is also an excellent way to add some valuable life skills to your arsenal, as well as to give your brain a nice, relaxing workout. Of all the types of … Read more

Clothes have their own personality. A good sewing expert will always understand how one part of a dress can change the overall feel and tone of the whole garment. When sewing clothes, being mindful of the different elements involved can help you achieve the effect that you want, whether it’s classy, casual, or a bit … Read more

During your foray as a beginning sewer, you may have encountered patterns that told you to add interfacing. Most of the time, new crafters don’t even know what interfacing is. This isn’t shocking, as interfacing is hidden from plain view. As a matter of fact, there are people who don’t use interfacing at all! Have … Read more

Ah, crocheting. There are few things more relaxing than allocating yourself some quiet downtime and being able to crochet yourself or a loved one a soft project they are sure to enjoy for years to come. That is… until you finally work your way to that pesky border! Crochet borders are some of the most … Read more

Sewing is often seen as a labor of love. A great deal of time, care, and attention goes into every stitch, and the end result is well worth the effort devoted to each project. The same can also be said for teaching. While they may seem vastly different on the surface, both sewing and teaching … Read more

Hand quilting can be a time-consuming venture — but an extremely rewarding one for the determined quilter! There’s nothing better than having a beautiful piece of art you can hang on the wall or curl up underneath on a chilly night. Better yet, hand quilting is a craft for all sewing skill levels! If you’re … Read more

Knitting may be one of the most relaxing crafts out there, and it can result in extremely beautiful creations! However, if you’ve yet to pick up your own set of knitting needles, you may not know just how diverse this seemingly plain hobby can be. For instance, have you ever heard of the Kitchener stitch? … Read more

If you’re new to the art of knitting, the first thing you need to understand is the type of yarn you should use. As a beginner, it may be daunting to find the right yarn, as there are so many to choose from, with each type dictating the technique, type of project, and needle that … Read more

When it comes to knitting and crocheting, you’ll see the term “worsted weight yarn” a lot. But what is worsted weight yarn? What does worsted mean? And why does our brain keep glossing over it and calling it Worcestershire yarn? Well, in this article, we’ll discuss what worsted weight yarn is, where it came from, … Read more

Are you an aspiring fashion designer, eager to learn all you can to perfect your craft? Don’t forget to take the important step of learning to drape your fabric! What is draping, you ask? Fashion draping is how you position and pin fabric on a dress form, allowing you to develop the structure of a … Read more

In your sewing adventures, you may have come across an instruction in a pattern that reads: “stay stitch neck edge” – or otherwise uses the phrase “stay stitching,” without actually explaining what that means. Just what is stay stitching? How do you do it? When do you need to use it? Let’s talk a bit … Read more

Do you want to turn your sewing hobby into a career? Do you have doubts and fears about quitting your day job? Are you not even sure what it means to have a sewing or textile career? Worry no more! Here is some information about careers in the sewing industry, to help you figure out … Read more

Bean bags are one of the most fun, comfortable, and versatile pieces of furniture you can own. They can add a pop of color to almost any room, be it your living room, bedroom, or playroom. Bean bags, with their perfect shape, almost invite you to lounge and take a break but, most importantly, they … Read more

When you start looking for a “how-to” embroidery guide, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the number of stitches and patterns available to you as a beginning crafter. Never fear, though! While embroidery does require a broad spectrum of stitches, these stitches build off of one another in order to make the process of embroidery … Read more

Learning how to hem a pair of jeans will save you a lot of time and money after you’ve done your shopping. Not only will you not have to worry about finding a pair of jeans that fit you perfectly, but you’ll be able to do the alteration work on your own time and dime, … Read more

Aprons have been around for hundreds of years, but have most notably been recorded in use during the Middle Ages and beyond. In the United States, aprons have been leveraged as part of ceremonies and every-day work attire, and are made out of everything from silk to flour sacks. People working in the home or … Read more

Embroidery is a delicate sewing craft which produces beautiful designs and even more lovely embellishments on pillows, clothing, or other accessories. If you’re thinking about getting into embroidery for the first time, embroidered flowers are a great place to start, as one of the most simple and well-loved designs. In this article, we’ll equip you … Read more

When it comes to making a living off of your craft, there’s more than one way to take part in the sewing industry. Depending on your skill level and personal talents, any number of career options are available. One, for example, lies in between the processes of fashion design and sewing, and is a crucial … Read more

Rag quilts may not have the most pleasing name but they are wonderful to curl up with on a cold day. The three layers of material, plus fluffy seams, make for the best companion come rainy day movie marathons. Not to say that regular quilts aren’t good snuggle buddies! Rag quilts just seem extra… “foofy,” … Read more

What is topstitching and how does it differ from straight stitching? Topstitching parallels straight stitching in its practical purpose, true, but it is also stitching that is explicitly meant to be seen. Oftentimes topstitching is deliberately decorative; while we’ll discuss a much more basic top stitch here, some topstitching can draw the eye as effectively … Read more

Drawstring bags are simple and easy to make, while providing multiple uses. You can design larger bags to serve as impromptu toy boxes or to contain your sewing materials. With some added flare, they can become gym bags, traveling toiletry bags, lunch bags, gift bags, or even dice bags (for you boardgame players out there). … Read more

So, you want to sew your own beanie. They’re a fashionable accessory that also serves as invaluable during the chilled winter months, but what exactly does it take to create one yourself? In this guide, we’ll cover all the details necessary to transform your search for better fashion statements into a full-blown hobby! First, it’s … Read more

Honing your sewing craft can take years – as can developing the confidence to share what you make with others. There is a distinct difference between making gifts for your friends, though, and starting your own sewing business. If you find yourself inspired by the idea of sharing your work with others, paying careful attention … Read more

Tunisian crochet, also known as Afghan crochet, is the lovechild of crocheting and knitting. As a cross between the two, it has all the utility of knitting needles with the tight stitching of crochet. Talk about the best of both worlds! So how can you pick up the hobby and this specific style? Is it … Read more

Knitting is a wonderful hobby that all sorts of people pick up. Those that love creating and who like to keep their hands busy – and perhaps live in colder weather! – are quick to learn the many techniques one can use to knit. Brioche knitting may seem complicated. Like with all knitting, though, once … Read more

Sewing is your passion – or is at least an enjoyable enough task that you think you can utilize your skill in order to earn a bit of extra money. The easiest way to make this a reality is by working sewing jobs from home. Sewing-from-home jobs are more common than you may initially guess, … Read more

The process of sewing silk isn’t difficult, but it definitely takes time and patience. Silk is a luxurious fabric that, when weaved together, is deceptively strong. Solitary silk threads, however, are delicate with ends that tend to fray easily. As such, sewing the material should be handled with care. The process of how to sew … Read more

Have you ever been invited to a baby shower, RSVP-ed “yes,” and suddenly froze as the question arises: what do you get as a present? There are the typical solutions – baby clothes, nursery supplies, and cute teddy bears. But, perhaps you want to gift something a little more personal? Or, instead of the last … Read more

Learning how to oil a sewing machine is essential for any beginning sewer. There are several elements involved in the process, however, and that can make getting started a little intimidating. We’ve gathered together some facts about different oils and the oiling process in general, so you can best understand how to care and keep-up … Read more

Aside from fixing a broken seam, knowing how to sew a button is a must-have skill for everyone. You don’t need to go to a tailor or toss out a shirt just because a button popped off! Sewing on your own button is the reason why so many shirts come with extras, just in case … Read more

You’ve seen them everywhere, on Pinterest, Tumblr, and Facebook. They are always the rage come fall time and it seems like every woman has at least one: Infinity scarves. Simple, often handmade accessories, that complete any look, their low-key appearance has appealed for many seasons and for many reasons. But what if you want to … Read more

Are you just a beginner in the sewing world? Or do you have experience with sewing things by hand, but are wary of the daunting block of a sewing machine sitting in the corner? Don’t be! Sewing machines have made projects easier for years now, and once you get past the beginning step, you’re well … Read more

You have a dress. This dress is perfect, with or without the presence of pockets, and you love it. There’s just one problem. You want the waist tighter. Using elastic is the obvious answer, but who wants to struggle through winding together a casing and the elastic? No one. It’s time-consuming and frustrating, often increasingly … Read more

Many little girls and boys want to be ballerinas when they grow up, and nothing says ‘ballerina’ more than a tutu. While buying one in a store or online is, of course, very quick and easy, making your own is just as simple. With the right materials and few quick tips and techniques, your child … Read more

Those who have been crafting and sewing long enough have no doubt seen a variety of tools available to help their jobs, but how do you know what you need to succeed? While most home crafters know all about their reliable sewing machine, a quick cruise through your local fabric store will no doubt have … Read more

Spandex: that magical fabric that moves with you and allows your waistband to stretch a couple more inches when you eat extra cookies. While spandex is wonderful in our clothes, sewing spandex can be a little difficult. It can raise some issues like puckering and bunching up when run through the sewing machine. But, with … Read more

While sewing can be fun, some techniques can be harder than others, especially when what you want to make requires sewing more than just a straight line. If you ever looked closely at a napkin, a tablecloth, curtains, or a quilt, and wondered how they got the corners so perfect, you were looking at mitered … Read more

Blind hems are perfect for quickly and neatly altering your pants from home. The standard cross-stitch method, done by manufacturers, is susceptible to snags and eventual folds coming undone. Blind hems use the simple method of folding, pinning, and stitching to create a nearly invisible stitch. Even if a stitch were to snag, the zig-zag … Read more

If there is one universal truth for crafters, it’s this: sewing machines know when you’re on a deadline, and they can smell fear. Why is it sewing machines always seem to have issues mid-project? Well, it could be that it simply needs to be cleaned! The number one way to keep your machine running smoothly … Read more

Holed clothes are back in fashion, but there’s no need to go and buy new clothes! You can easily modify your current wardrobe for as much as it costs to buy a needle and thread, if you don’t have them already at your disposal. If you feel intimidated – don’t. It’s easy to learn how … Read more

When you have a kiddo who loves playing dress-up with their dolls, from American Girl, to Lori, to Barbie, of course you want to shower them with accessories and outfits. However, doll clothing can get expensive quickly. What better way to save some money and create a personalized touch than to sew your own clothes … Read more

One of ballet’s most cherished—and most tedious—rituals is sewing on your ribbons. Some schools require ribbons on technique shoes for exams, and some require students to wear shankless, or pre-pointe, shoes. Most pointe shoe ribbons are made of nylon or polyester satin, and they come in either a shiny or a matte finish. They should … Read more

One of the most exciting things about being a sewist is hunting down new sewing patterns. We always used to pick these up for a few dollars at a craft store, but the internet has brought thousands upon thousands of them (including free sewing patterns!) right to our fingerprints. It’s not quite as easy as … Read more

Ever wondered how to sew a pillow case? Maybe you need a pillow case but haven’t found one that’s in a color or pattern you want. Perhaps you need to learn how to sew a body pillow case since they’re not sold at most stores. Maybe you want to learn how to sew pillow case … Read more

Sewing with knits can seem like an impossible task. With such complex fabric and so much room for error, how can you even begin? Once you’re started, how can you avoid the typical pitfalls which turn a strong venture into a disaster? If you’re wondering what stitches are best or what issues to watch out … Read more

Are you wondering how to use a sewing machine? Don’t worry — you’re not the only one. Sewing machines look complicated, but they’re really not. It’s simply a matter of knowing the basic functions and understanding the core purpose of those more intricate features. Here we’ll break it down, so you can feel confident and … Read more

The history of the sewing machine is not a straightforward one. With its roots dating back as far as 1755, this revolutionary machine was borne out of stop-start beginnings, patent wars, and a huge factory fire. A surprisingly sexy history for such a domestic machine. Plenty of inventors and nations lay claim to the invention … Read more

Want to buy a home sewing machine? The technical jargon and specifications can be crazily overwhelming when it comes to choosing the best sewing machines. Who knew sewing machines were such a complex feat of engineering? But, no fear — if you’re stuck wondering what on earth feed dogs are, this guide is for you. We’ll … Read more