What do horses and braids have to do with sewing? Now that we’ve got your attention, let’s talk about this uncommon notion called horsehair braid! Historically, it was made from the stiff hair of a horse’s mane and tail, and then from cotton and linen, but today’s version is made from nylon or polyester fibers. […]
Sew Thrifty
Every sewer seems to have a bit of a thrifty soul…whether it’s finding a great fabric at a bargain price or reusing something to create something new. An easy way to do both of those virtuous tasks is to shop thrift stores. We’re not suggesting that you do that as your sole source for sewing […]
Grams Per Square Meter – Why Does It Matter?
GSM stands for grams per square meter and is a standard industry-wide method of measurement of the density or weight of a fabric. (In the US, because we haven’t embraced the metric system of measurement, you might see this measured as oz/sq yard.) The GSM measurement is not thread count, which is a different method […]
Pressing Tools—Clapper and Sleeve Board
It doesn’t matter whether you tailor fine wool jackets or make casual everyday wear, or if you’re a quilter—getting a good press is of the utmost importance for a professional-looking project. There are tools to help with that process. Let’s take a look at two tools that work for all sewers and quilters—a clapper and […]
Sew Confusing: Pattern Instructions
As you read pattern instructions there may be some unfamiliar terms or worse yet, things that sound similar and you’re not sure what’s what. Let’s take a look at some often-confused terminology and set it straight for your next project. Interfacing/Stabilizer Interfacing (woven, non-woven or knitted) is used anywhere more firmness or body is needed […]
What I’m Sewing: Alyce Blouse
Linda Jensen from the ASG Lake County Chapter shares her experience making this great-fitting blouse from Silhouette Patterns. Q. Item Created A. Blouse Q. Independent Pattern Designer A. Silhouette Patterns Q. Name and Number of Pattern A. Alyce Blouse #621 Q. Fabric Used: A. Stretchy knit, but a wide variety of fabrics can be used […]
Matching Points
Nothing causes quilters more angst than getting perfect points on their blocks. With multiple small pieces often combined into a single block, keeping points and seams aligned can be tricky, but there are a few tricks that help with the task. If you’re not a quilter, never fear, these same principles can apply to garment […]
Is Your SewJo Languishing?
What is a languishing sewjo you ask? I recently read articles in both the New York Times and NPR about this new condition. It’s apparently a real thing that isn’t depression but is a lingering state of “meh.” When I read it, I immediately thought – YES! This validates what I have been feeling! My […]
Covid Sewing: How I Survived 2020
As we reach the one-year mark of what was to have been a two-week isolation for Covid-19, it’s hard to believe that a virus could shut down our world, cause schools, restaurants, gyms, stores, and even churches to shutter their doors. So many got sick, lost jobs, experienced feelings of isolation and depression, and even […]
Covid Sewing: Chapter Stories
Central Illinois Chapter The Central Illinois chapter members, spearheaded by Charlotte Cronin and Vicki Ghidina, made repairs to 52,000 N95 protective masks for OSF Healthcare. The elastic in those masks had deteriorated and without their help of ASG members, friends and family, the masks would have been deemed unusable. Instead, these mask angels assured that […]
DIY Table Runner
Run, Run… Table Runners A table runner can be used to add color and interest to any part of your home décor, showcase a display of collectibles, or it can be used simply to protect the dining table surface. You get multiple functions in one! A runner can even be used over a tablecloth to […]
To Boldly Go Where No Quilt Has Gone Before
This is the story of my little lap quilt that ended up across the country, helping people. I’m sure all sewists can relate to seeing a certain fabric that catches their eye and the excitement of seeing that it’s on clearance! JoAnn’s had Star Trek fabric for $3.00 a yard and I had to buy […]
Slick Tricks: Working with Laminated Fabrics
If you’re looking to make that perfect raincoat, try one of the great laminated fabrics on the market today. Colorful cottons with a clear coating are ideal for rainy weather attire, and a host of other projects from cosmetic bags to totes and aprons. And you have options—laminated cottons come with either a matte finish […]
Sewing Basics: General Sewing Terms, Part 2
The projects we want to sew can range from quilts to embroidery, handbags to pillows, and everything in between. This article focuses on sewing terms that are most often associated with garment sewing, but may be used or called for in other projects as well. Note: This is Part 2 of our General Sewing Terms […]
Shower Power: Sew a Fabric Shower Curtain
Nothing’s more fun than sprucing up your home and as sewers, a little refresh is easy to do. So, why not start in the bathroom with a fun fabric shower curtain! Choose a bold print, fabulous stripe or even a luscious solid cotton or polyester fabric. Decorator weights work well and often come with coordinates […]
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