Trapunto [ truh–poon-toh ] is a funny sounding word that is an Italian term meaning “quilting.” It’s used to describe not just ordinary quilting, but a design that stands above the rest of the quilt surface in high relief. It can be used throughout a piece, or as a focal point like on the yoke of […]
Sewing Tips: Fleece
Fleece is a general term for a soft, insulating fabric that is usually made from polyester but can be made from a variety of materials, including polyester, bamboo, cotton, and hemp. Fleece is usually lightweight, soft and cuddly and its fibers work to trap air which makes it effective in retaining body heat. Fleece is […]
Q&A: Needle Notes
We’ve received a lot of needle-related questions lately, so let’s get some answers. Q: My sewing machine has a needle-up/needle-down function. Why do I need that? A: The needle positioning option eliminates the need to turn the machine hand-wheel manually to get the needle where you want it to be—either above the fabric level, or […]
Pillow Talk
A throw pillow is a perfect accent for any room, and multiples make it even better! Pillows are an easy project for beginner sewers and success is almost assured. Shapes and sizes Pillows can be almost any shape or size, from squares and rectangles to round or oblong. Common square sizes are 12”, 14”, 16”, […]
Sewing Curves with Minimal Pins
Sewing curves can be one of the trickier techniques in sewing, especially when you’re working with delicate fabrics or intricate patterns. Traditionally, many sewists use multiple pins to secure curved seams. However, the “minimal pin” or even “one-pin” method is popular for its efficiency, precision, and fabric preservation. Why Use Minimal Pins for Sewing Curves? […]
Costume Creation: Tabards
A primary element of many costumes — whether for Halloween, cosplay, or a medieval fair — is a tabard. A tabard consists of front and back panels connected over the shoulders and open at the sides, similar to a tunic. It can be long or short and is usually secured at the waist by a […]
Made in the Suede
In 1970, a Japanese company called Toray created Ultrasuede®, a non-woven polyester/polyurethane fabric designed to mimic actual suede. And did it ever! It looked and felt like the real deal and it was available by the yard in a host of fashion colors and with no imperfections. Since the debut of Ultrasuede, other manufacturers have […]
DIY: Sew a Duvet Cover
Creating a new duvet cover is an easy and practical project that can transform your bedroom without the mess of paint or moving furniture. Not only does it allow you to personalize your bedding with fresh, vibrant fabrics that reflect the season’s aesthetic, it also enhances comfort by the opportunity to select materials that are […]
Sewing Q&A: Buttonhole Knife, Bodkin, Fusible Interfacing, Printing on Fabric
Buttonhole Knife I was gifted a buttonhole knife set, but I don’t know how to use it. Can you help? A buttonhole knife is like a small chisel, and it often comes with a small cutting board and sometimes a rubber mallet, though the chisel can be used without the two additional pieces. It is […]
Mitered Napkin Corners
Nothing can add more pizzazz to a table setting than some fun fabric napkins. Whether you choose a whimsical quilting cotton, a solid linen, an ethnic print, or an elegant home décor fabric, napkins add a colorful accent. There are several ways to finish the edges of your napkins, and we’ve talked about some previously […]
Sewing with Outdoor Shade Fabric is a Breeze
Outdoor shade fabrics can create comfortable and shaded spaces in gardens, patios, and other outdoor areas. Frequently used for commercial shade sails, pergola covers, canopies, tents, and awnings, DIY enthusiasts can also purchase the fabric in rolls and easily and inexpensively create shade wherever it’s needed. While providing shade is its typical use, shade cloth […]
2024 Fashion Show
Images from the 2024 Fashion Show at ASG Conference. Special thanks to Barbara George from the San Jose, CA chapter for organizing this event!
How to: Blind Hem Stitch
Ah, hem Whether you prefer to hem your garments by hand or machine is a matter of preference but sewing machine manufacturers have risen to the latter cause by including a blind hem stitch on most models. It may be one of those quirky-looking stitches you don’t often use, but creating an invisible hem on […]
Fold-Over Elastic
Fold-over elastic (also known as FOE) is one of those notions that, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. It’s a versatile, latex-free product that functions similarly to bias binding to finish a raw edge, with the added benefit of stretch and recovery so it keeps the edge up against […]
Silk Ribbonwork by Machine
If you’re a hand embroiderer, you may be surprised to know that you can actually do silk ribbonwork on the sewing machine! Yes, it’s true… You can duplicate intricate hand-stitched flowers, stems, knots, etc. and you can create some decorative machine stitches with ribbons as well. What you’ll need Choose real silk ribbon for your work, […]
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