Jane Kallinger 
Every sewing project is made far easier with a set of good marking tools. Regardless of what you are making or what materials you are using, marking your stitch lines before you sew is crucial. There are several marking tools available on the market right now that can do this job very well, but some … Read more
Sewing is not known as the most social of hobbies. It is generally done alone, in your home, with only your sewing machines for company. But there are tremendous benefits to joining a sewing group, including bonding with others who have the same passion for sewing and contributing to community projects and charities as a … Read more
Waterproof fabrics are a lifesaver – they keep you dry outdoors, protect babies from nappy rash, and prevent soggy towels from leaking into bags. But how do you know which waterproof fabric to use for different projects? What are the best waterproof fabrics for sewing? The best waterproof fabrics are synthetics coated with a laminate … 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. Larger fabrics also mean greater waste. If you just want a … Read more
Free embroidery machine fonts are brilliant as they save you money and allow you to expand your font collection. However, finding free ones can be challenging as the market is oversaturated with pricey typefaces that don’t always live up the hype. If you’re not a fan of the built-in fonts that come with your sewing … Read more
Let’s face it: leather can be difficult to work with. It sticks, it can’t be pinned down without ruining the fabric, and it’s a pain to stitch. So if you plan on sewing leather, you need to find a machine that is specifically designed for working with tougher fabrics. That means it will need a … Read more
Looking for a suitable sewing machine for your next project? There are hundreds of sewing machines on the market today, and many of them are built with a specific use in mind. Are you looking for a basic mechanical machine that can handle simple projects like hemming and mending? Or do you need something more … Read more
Have you ever considered making your own lingerie? It may seem like a weird concept, but homemade lingerie be a great decision, both creatively and financially! Let’s face it – a good bra alone is expensive. As something that we need to wear every day, you’d imagine it’d be more affordable. Unfortunately, lingerie is very … Read more
Seasons, occasions, weather, and comfort all play a very big role in deciding which type of material will best suit your shirt. So you found a great pattern that would make a gorgeous shirt, but you can’t decide what material would best suit the style – what are you going to do? Well, you’ve come … Read more
Who hasn’t got a smartphone nowadays? With new technology constantly at our fingertips, it’s easy to find anything you’re looking for. There are apps available for just about every hobby imaginable – and that includes sewing! If you’re a beginner sewer looking for some guidance, or even an experienced sewer who wants some inspiration, there … Read more
If you’re thinking of sewing curtains to enhance the window features, create a romantic ambiance in your bedroom, or block out the early morning sun from disturbing your sleep, there are several fabrics to select. Curtain fabrics are available in two types, sheer and opaque. Blackout fabrics are heavier, keep out light, and act as … Read more
If there is one thing we all want to do, it is to make money while doing what we love. And whether sewing is your hobby or something you want to pursue full-time, there are plenty of ways you can do this. Sewing is not only a field that has a lot of interest, but … Read more
If you still use pen and paper to design your clothes, you’re missing out on a trick. These days, clothing designers can save a LOT of time by learning how to use CAD clothing design software – which gives many benefits such as accurate measurements and 3D printing of your latest designs. Some of the … Read more
What are the best places to sell clothes online? There are quite a few places, but not all of them work well. Whether someone has started a new clothing line or wants to sell their used clothes, a good marketing platform is essential to succeed. Some of the best places to sell clothes online include … Read more
Want to know how to use quilting cotton for dressmaking? Quilting cotton often has the best patterns. It is a fun and fearless fabric, making it tempting to wear. But quilting cotton isn’t the same as apparel cotton. While it is a versatile material, that doesn’t mean it can be used for any old project. … Read more
Comfortable clothing is often more frumpy than fashionable. So, it’s no wonder garments that feel and look fabulous become wardrobe staples. Relaxed-fit jeans combine style and comfort like no other clothing can, making them fashion favorites. The mom and boyfriend jeans are two top styles for a casually chic look. So, mom jeans vs boyfriend jeans – … Read more
Small sewing machines are perfect for mini projects like hemming a skirt, sewing cuffs and sleeves, or fixing a button. They are also ideal for beginners who are just learning how to sew because they are smaller and easier to use than traditional sewing machines. There are a few things you should keep in mind … Read more
Never picked up a needle before, but want to learn to sew? Excellent, you’re in the right place. Maybe you have a little experience with a needle and thread but aren’t what you’d call an expert. You’re in the right place, too. This article will give you examples of 14 beginner sewing projects that you … Read more
If you are the kind of person who loves sewing new clothes for your friends and family, then chances are you have experienced the difficulty of finding sewing patterns for men. These days, finding sewing patterns can be a challenging process, which is why we have decided to aid you in your search by finding … Read more
Looking for the best tunic sewing patterns? Originating from ancient Rome, tunics are a timeless and versatile clothing item that is worn by women all over the world. Originally tunics were worn by both men and women and were typically longer than modern day tunic designs. For those of you who may be questioning what … Read more
Finding the perfect bikini for summer isn’t always a breeze, if the fit is good, the color is just not you. If you absolutely adore the color, the style of the bikini or the size will be wrong. You just can’t seem to find a way to win! The only redeemable thing is that store-bought … Read more
Do you need a mini-iron for crafting but aren’t sure which is the best? Perhaps you have heard about mini-irons but don’t know much about them? Or maybe yours has failed you and you need to grab a new one but don’t know which one to go for? Whatever your reason might be, we have … Read more
Summer dresses are great to wear all summer long when you’re out on a picnic or relaxing with an ice-cool drink in your hand on the beach, or even walking through the park on a date. Whether you like a more feminine style, a maxi dress, a mini dress, a floaty dress, or even a … Read more
If you want to quickly monogram clothing, blankets, towels, or any other fabric, you’ll need a particular embroidery sewing machine. Using a monogram sewing machine is far easier and less time-consuming than embroidering characters by hand. The needle and thread method is more labor-intensive than whizzing stitches up on a device! However, sewing machines that … Read more
Want to create your own backpack sewing patterns? The backpack can be a great means of carrying things around the world. Having a backpack on your back can make you truly feel independent – as if you are setting off with all your worldly goods on an exciting adventure that you don’t know where it … Read more
Many embroidery machines come with hundreds of built-in designs that you can choose to work with straight away but if you are still on the hunt for more there are many websites out there that can provide free embroidery designs for you to build your skill. Also, many beginners don’t really want to be investing … Read more
Convincing your children to wear a face mask is difficult enough. They can cause irritation to the skin, and can also cause painful ear strain when worn for long periods, which could have a lasting effect. How are you supposed to convince them to put one on to protect them? One idea would certainly be … Read more
Barbie is now considered to be one of the most influential toys in the world, with the fashion doll first hitting the market back in 1959. Sixty-two years later, Barbie has become a role model for boys and girls alike, with the doll championing self-acceptance and holding countless professions to her name. And while buying … Read more
Canvas is a material that has commonly been used in painting for a long time, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be used for other purposes. This is a sturdy material that will hold up well over time, and this is why lots of people are choosing to take their needle and thread to … Read more
For most sewing enthusiasts, the worst part of any sewing project is threading the needle. It is not threading it through the machine that is necessarily the hassle- it is trying to cram a very thin piece of thread into the eye of an even seemingly smaller needle. We try somewhat patiently to try and … Read more
While various modern sewing machines can differ in what they have to offer, most have a core set of features available. In this guide we take a look at the different parts of a sewing machine, from the needle bar, to the hand wheel, to the presser bar – there’s plenty of basic parts to … Read more
Complete sewing kits are wonderful tools to have. However, unless you know how to properly use them, they are of little value. If you are a beginner, learning basic stitches is not a difficult task, and you can master these types of sewing stitches in record time. These stitches will teach you how to complete … Read more
Tulle skirts are becoming increasingly popular, due to their aesthetic appeal, and how easy they are to make. Whether you want to wear them in everyday life, as part of a magical costume, or to live out your ethereal dreams, tulle skirts are lightweight, comfortable, and look amazing! And the best thing is that you … Read more
A question that we get a lot is: which are the best sewing machines for beginners? And it’s no wonder really. Sewing is a fantastic craft that combines the creative, the fun and the practical. With a sewing machine it’s possible to create everything from clothing to toys and embroidery – and much more in … Read more
One of the easiest ways to get started with sewing is to grab yourself one of the many starter sewing project kits. These all-in-one packs will equip you to create your first sewing project with ease — plus you don’t have to spend lots of time and money hunting for the best sewing gear yourself. … Read more
When it comes to sewing through denim fabric, there are a lot of sewing machines on the market that claim they can handle anything. But those same models don’t always produce consistent results and some even end up ruining your clothes… Super tough and practical denim can stand up to the roughest treatment — but … Read more
Having a pair of the best sewing scissors can totally transform your creation into a work of art. If you’ve experienced the trauma of hacking away at a piece of fabric with a pair of kitchen scissors you’ll appreciate that a good sewing scissor set can be a game changer. A pair of high quality, … Read more
Quilting machines are specialist pieces of kit for serious quilters — have you used one yet? Many quilters start out with a standard sewing machine that has no problem sewing through several layers of material. Unfortunately, the average home sewing machine may have problems feeding thick fabrics and batting evenly under the foot. Quilting machines … Read more
Investing in a sewing table has been one of the best decisions we’ve made as a sewist. The stress of hunting through untidy tangles of spools of thread and scraps of fabric is unfortunately a familiar story for many a keen sewer. Many of us don’t have the appropriate storage for all the necessary sewing … Read more
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
Are you looking for the best sewing machines for making clothes? We’ve got you covered! There are so many reasons to make your own clothes – you can choose the perfect fabric, custom fit the pattern to fit your shape just right, be sure that you are creating quality garments that will last for years. … Read more
Looking for the best Husqvarna sewing machine? When it comes to successful sewing, a good sewing machine can make a huge difference. Husqvarna Viking have been creating superior sewing machines since 1872, and pride themselves on sewing machines with high quality engineering, exceptional capability and innovative design. In this guide we will be taking a … 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
Sometimes it takes a while for inspiration to strike — and that’s where browsing the best sewing blogs can fuel your next idea. If you’re passionate about sewing you’ll know how exciting it is to discover a new resource that inspires fresh ideas for new projects. Blogs about sewing, like the best sewing books, are … Read more
Today, we’re taking a deep dive into one of our favorite ranges. We’ll be looking to find the best Brother Project Runway Sewing Machine. If you’re a budding fashion designer or dressmaker, you’re most probably a fan of Project Runway – the American reality TV series that puts fresh sewing talent to the test in … Read more
Trying to choose between the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 and the Brother Project Runway PC420PRW? We’ve got you covered. Choosing the right sewing machine can be a tricky business. We’ve taken two of the most popular sewing machines around — the Singer Quantum Stylist and the Brother PC420PRW — and put them head to head … Read more
Are you looking for the best sewing books that’ll transform your projects from amateur to professional level? We’ve got just the list for you! Whether you’re new to sewing or a seasoned expert, sewing books can be a fantastic source of inspiration — for learning new techniques, to give you ideas for new and beautiful … Read more
Looking for the best sewing machine bags? We’ve got you covered! Do you like to sew on the go? Or do you need a convenient way to carry all of your sewing kit — including your machine — to sewing classes or groups? Then what you need is a sewing machine bag (or a sewing … Read more
Sewing is a fantastic hobby for young children that helps them express their creativity while turning their attention away from the TV. Thankfully, there is a handful of sewing machines for kids that are especially designed for children (complete with needle guard / finger guard). Adult machines are typically too heavy and complex for most … Read more
It’s the battle of the best heavy duty sewing machine! Brother ST371HD vs Singer 4411 Some sewing requires more muscle than others. Sewing thick fabrics or lots of layers can be tough on a regular machine which is probably not up to the job. This is when heavy duty sewing machines come into their own. … Read more
Looking to invest in the best Singer Quantum Stylist sewing machine for your needs? Singer have been a leading sewing machine brand for almost 170 years and have an outstanding reputation for quality and innovation. Today, Singer create sewing, quilting, and embroidery machines to suit all levels and budgets. Perhaps the most popular range for … Read more
Are you looking for the best cheap sewing machines? We’ve got you covered! A sewing machine is an indispensable piece of kit for any sewing enthusiast. Sadly, not all of us have budgets big enough to be able to afford a top of the range machine. The good news is that there are plenty of … Read more
Looking for the best heavy duty sewing machines? We’ve got you covered. Snagging, snapping thread, broken needles, skipped stitches, smoke and burning smells coming from your sewing machine… Sound familiar? If you’ve ever struggled when sewing thicker fabrics — or even just multiple layers — it could be that your sewing machine just isn’t up … Read more
If you’ve ever seen a colorful thread design on a t-shirt, pillow, or pants pocket, and thought, “I wish I could make something like that!” — well, you can! Enter the humble embroidery machine. You can either buy a stand-alone machine, or buy a sewing machine that can do embroidery. We’ve compiled this guide to what … Read more
Looking for the best sewing cabinets? We’ve got you covered. We’ve all been there. Hastily sweeping our sewing projects off the dining table and stuffing them into a bag, and shoving the sewing the sewing machine in the corner of the room so the family can sit down and eat or the kids can do … Read more
Are you looking for the best serger sewing machine? We’ve got you covered. Do you want to take your sewing to the next level? A serger sewing machine can add a new dimension to your sewing and help you whiz through your projects quickly and efficiently. Let’s take an in depth look at what a … 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
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
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
