OK, raise your hand if your bobbin storage area looks like the photo below. Just what I thought…few hands in the air, and certainly not mine! Keeping these pesky little rounds handy and neat is an ongoing chore, but thankfully, there are some notions that can come to our rescue. How you store your bobbins is […]
The Humble Seam Ripper
Much as we hate to admit it, we all make mistakes, and sometimes those are stitching-related. But, luckily there’s a tool for that—the humble seam ripper. Seam rippers come in many styles and shapes, but they all function in a similar way to remove errant stitches so we can fix whatever caused the error in […]
Sewing Reversible Clothing
Sewing reversible garments is a practical idea and can be a fun and creative way to add versatility to your wardrobe. They can also help you to save space in your suitcase when traveling. Making Choices Coats and jackets are logical choices, letting the collars and rolled back cuffs show off the contrast fabric. Vests […]
Sewing Tools: What’s This?
We all know that sewing enthusiasts need certain tools to function—a sewing machine, scissors, thread, pins, etc.—but there are some other tools of the trade that might just be nice to have. Are they a necessity? No. Are they a convenience? Absolutely. Let’s take a look at some of those handy-to-have specialty items. This page […]
Ideas for Redesigning Front Openings (preview)
Are you tired of the same look for the front openings of your tops or jackets? These creative ideas to redesign those openings with different closures will elevate the look of your garments from basic to fashion-forward and are adaptable to a simple blouse, a casual top, or a jacket. When making these adjustments, the […]
Purely Fluff: DIY Chenille
If you love the look of vintage chenille fabric, you can easily duplicate that look for any of your projects. The technique involves layering fabrics, stitching, cutting and fluffing, and the resulting fabric is suitable for garments, quilts, pillows, etc. It’s warm because of the multiple layers, and it’s comfy with a fluffy texture. Choosing […]
Designer Bias Trim (preview)
I occasionally head out to shop on what I call “snoop day.” Armed with a small tablet and pencil to be able to copy down ideas. I shop in the better departments of boutique and major stores (i.e. Ellen Tracy, Escada, Dana Buchman, Chanel, and Armani) and I’m usually looking for pocket, collar, trim and […]
Magnetic Appeal: Purse Magnets
If you’ve noticed the details on your favorite handbag or tote, it’s very likely that the flap closure or pocket is secured with a magnetic fastener. These handy pull-aparts are easy to operate, reliable and they’re compatible with all bag fabrics. The magnets come in both round and square shapes, in sizes ranging from ½” […]
Boning and Waist Stays (preview)
Boning and waist stays work because the female body widens both above and below the waistline. Most gowns have a tightly fitted bodice — with or without sleeves, on or off the shoulder — and a full, heavy skirt. We’ve all seen an unfortunate bride wearing a sagging gown. The bodice may be sagging on […]
Sewing Q&A: Eyesight, Visibility, and Scissor Care
Q: As I get older, my eyesight is declining and I’m having more and more trouble threading my machine’s needle. Any ideas? A: Most newer machines have built-in needle threaders, but if your machine doesn’t, there are other options. Try using a fine needle threader, like those used by hand sewers. Note the direction your […]
Special Help for Hems (preview)
Both fitting and sewing hems properly and professionally are the best ways to make clothes feel and look good. This applies whether you have made them from scratch or if you have purchased ready-to-wear. There is more to hemming than meets the eye though and as sewing enthusiasts, we have the advantage and skills to […]
Canine Capers: Sewing for Your Furry Friend
We all love to sew, whether it’s for ourselves, for friends, for gifts or for our homes, but sometimes our pets need a little sewing love as well. Both of these dog toys are great gift ideas for your own dog or grand-dog, and are also ideal for community service projects or donating to your […]
Are You Odd and Compulsive?
Flashback! Donna Salyers from Fabulous Furs shared these delightful observations about sewing enthusiasts during the 1995 Second Annual ASG Fashion Show where she remarked that the creativity in the room was positively electrifying. In addition, she commented that the evening was not only magical, she also believed it was the start of a grand and […]
Quilt Border Patrol
When you finish the center of your quilt, there’s always the last sprint to the finish to add the border. Borders add a frame to the quilt and make it larger than the perhaps intricately pieced center section. They also provide a wonderful place to showcase running quilt designs and fussy corner motifs. Quilt borders […]
Buttonhole Window on a Reversible Garment (preview)
The buttonhole window is strong and attractive on both sides of a garment, which makes it ideal for a reversible vest or jacket. If your garment is trimmed with faux leather, suede, or wool jersey, the same fabric should also be used for the patch because it won’t ravel. Buttonholes in a reversible or unlined […]
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