One of the things that most new sewers and non-sewers don’t understand is the amount of time you spend getting ready to sew. In fact, there are some projects (usually simple) that the actual stitching part takes the least amount of time. In the early years of my sewing journey, I was often frustrated with […] Read more…
Know Your Sewing Machine
How familiar are you with the parts and pieces of your sewing machine? Any time you start something new, whether it is cooking or wallpapering, it’s easier to learn if you understand the language related to the skill. Sewing is no different. If you are new to sewing or using a sewing machine, a good […] Read more…
Mini Quilt #3
This 3-panel quilt is made with string quilting, a quilt-as-you-go technique that is decades (maybe centuries) old. I remember my grandmother stitching this technique by hand when I was a child. It’s a great way to use fabric scraps and a fast way to piece and quilt in one step. Finished size:10″ x 12″ Supplies […] Read more…
Sew Inspired to Read a Good Book
There’s nothing like a good book. Whether it’s on my Kindle or an actual book with paper pages (which I still love), reading is something I enjoy. And when I can read about sewing, it’s twice as nice! I just received the latest digital magazine, Inspired to Sew, from Schmetz Needles. If you don’t subscribe, […] Read more…
Why Use Specialty Presser Feet?
One of the most important parts of a sewing machine is the presser foot. You can’t sew without one because it has several critical jobs to do as you stitch. The presser foot sits on the fabric, holding it to the feed teeth, which helps move the fabric under the needle. The foot also holds […] Read more…
Broken Needles
It has happened to all of us at least once (or a hundred times). You are sewing along and clunk! – your needle breaks. Sometimes the reason is obvious and sometimes it’s a mystery, but it is always something that demands your attention. It’s more than just a nuisance. It stops you in your tracks […] Read more…
Mini Art Quilt #2
This tutorial features my latest MAQ (mini art quilt) and I loved sewing it for two reasons. One, I’m using fabric and materials that I really like and two, I challenged myself to make it without buying anything! Everything I used is from my stash of fabrics, buttons, trinkets, cardstock, etc. If I make about […] Read more…
A Fun Way to Practice Beginning Free-motion Stitching
Previous Post Last month I posted an Easy Tip for Beginning Free-Motion Stitching. It’s a scribble stitching exercise that teaches you how to move the fabric without having to worry about making specific shapes. The more you scribble, the more comfortable you get with the process. This Post The first post was about comfort and […] Read more…
Free Sewing Patterns!
Hi All! Today’s guest post is another one from creativefabrica.com and it’s all about free sewing patterns! Click here to see an earlier post about free machine embroidery designs. On their site, you’ll also find free fonts (great for art quilts and mixed media sewing), Cricut and Silhouette files, and more. In addition, you can […] Read more…
Heart Mini Art Quilt
If you’re looking for a way to make sewing fun again, mini art quilts may be just the thing! Combining art techniques and sewing applications with a bit of scrapbooking thrown in opens a world of creative possibilities to make unique works of art. The best thing about this mixed media sewing is that you […] Read more…