Today’s sewing machines come with hundreds of stitches, for both practical and decorative techniques. When you look at the practical stitches, it’s sometimes hard to know how to use them. Here’s one of my favorite practical stitches with three useful techniques. The Universal stitch starts with two vertical straight stitches and then takes a horizontal […] Read more…
13 Halloween Costumes with Free Patterns
I remember Halloween as a kid and how much fun it was to put together a costume. It’s even more fun today because there’s so much inspiration and sharing that goes on using the Internet. Because Halloween is the only time the number 13 is lucky, I scoured the Internet and found 13 fun choices […] Read more…
My Go-To Presser Foot
I own all of the BERNINA presser feet and I have to say, I use ALL of them. Some more than others and there are a few that I only need on an occasional basis, but I love having access to the tools I need to sew any technique, any fabric, and any type of […] Read more…
Tube Quilting: Easy Chevron Design
I first came across this method of piecing about 7-8 years ago and it has become one of my favorite speed piecing methods. It was called Tube Quilting and although I’ve occasionally seen it called Tube Piecing, (which it technically is), most of the time I see it as Tube Quilting so that’s what I […] Read more…
Seven Sewing Tools I use Every Day
I don’t know about you, but I spend a lot of time looking for things in my sewing room. As hard as I try to keep it organized, it seems that it is often in chaos, especially when I’m in the middle of a project (or projects!). Can’t find my scissors, where is that seam […] Read more…
Easy Applique Mug Rug
This quilted mug rug is embellished with a simple applique technique. Both the quilting and the appliqué techniques are stitched at the same time, making this a quick and easy project. Finished size: 8” square Supplies Two 9” squares of coordinating fabric One 9” square of low-loft batting One 9” square of appliqué fabric One 9” […] Read more…
8 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a Sewing Machine
Buying a new sewing machine is exciting but can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many choices with a wide variety of features and functions. To find the best machine for you and your sewing interests, it will take some research and thought on your part. Once you’ve decided to shop for a new […] Read more…
Mini Coiled Containers
Years ago I learned to make coiled projects – placemats, coasters, baskets and bowls. I was amazed at how easy it was and how good the finished projects looked. I recently tried it again but this time, I made mini versions of some of the projects. Tiny little containers to hold small items such as […] Read more…
Mask or No Mask?
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional; the intention of this post is to pass along information about the use (or not) of masks in relation to the Covid-19 virus. It also includes directions for making several styles of masks if you choose to do so. The New Normal I think it’s safe to say […] Read more…
Needle Notes
We all know how important the needle is to your sewing machine, right? If you are having stitch problems such as poor stitch formation, skipped stitches or tension problems that you can’t seem to correct, the FIRST thing to do is to put in a new needle. Most of the time, it will take care […] Read more…