Not all bodies are the same shape, so it's natural to need to do a small adjustment or two to get the bodice sitting nicely. It is easy to alter a
Learn how to machine-sew a hem to finish the pleated sleeves Pattern Hack "Dramatic Pleats" in Threads #194 (Dec. 2017/Jan. 2018).
Shirring is an old technique, I know. (Shirring and smocking aren’t actually originally done with elastic…..but it sure makes things easier. And faster.) Sometimes I assume everyone knows how to do it. But then I get another email asking how to shir (or smock) fabric. So it reminds me I shouldn’t assume…………..because it is …
We think you will love sewing these Reversible Fabric Baskets. The baskets are so fun to sew and the video sewing tutorial from Sotak Co is completely free.
Finish transparent edges with this simple-to-sew couture technique.
A super quick and easy way to make a potholder with scrap fabric you have lying around. These potholders are the perfect housewarming gift!
Here's what to do when your sewing machine thread bunches up. Sewing machine thread bunching up on the top or underside of fabric is a common problem & a frustrating one! But don't despair, there are lots of things you can check to solve this issue. Refer to this checklist before call a sewing machine repair man!
At Sew Modern Bags we bring you lots of fabulous sewing patterns each week. However, now and again we come across a training video or photo tutorial that we
Quilts by Paula Fleischer, political and otherwise
Kawandi is a style of quilt created by the Siddi people of India, traditionally done by hand. It is truly scrappy and improvisational. While I like doing hand work, I was also intrigued by faster machine methods. I've listed some resources at the end of this tutorial if you are interested in creating Kawandi by hand, want to see another machine tutorial, want to see some footage of Siddi creating Kawandi by hand, and a discussion of creating Kawandi in your own style. This tutorial describes a new way of creating Kawandi by machine. These are NOT traditional Kawandi, but inspired by the joy and movement of Kawandi-style. I started with a background piece of fabric approximately 8x10", a piece of batting of the same size, and many scraps of batiks or quilting cottons. 1) Place the background over the batting, right side up (this is a quilt as you go technique, so the batting is incorporated from the beginning. 2) Place 4 scraps in the corners, right side DOWN - NOTE I'm using batiks in these examples, so its hard to tell that these pieces are upside down. In this image, you are looking at what will be the WRONG side of those scrap corners. 3) Begin UNDERLAPPING adjoining scraps into the corners. Fold approximately 1/4 inch on the side that will go UNDER the corner. Again, the scraps are placed upside down. Pin the piece in place along the edge. This will be machine sewn. 4) When you get to the next corner, fold the 1/4 inch on both sides of the scrap because it will go under 2 pieces of fabric. 5) Continue folding and underlapping scraps, pinning along the outer edge until you get the entire edge filled. Notice that it doesn't matter if you use short scraps, or long scraps. And again, its impossible to tell from this image because I'm using batiks, but you are looking at the right side of the background, and the WRONG side of the colorful scraps. 6) Sew 1/4 in seam all the way around the edge, removing pins as you come to them. 7) Clip the 4 corners close to the seam, being careful not to cut the thread. 8) Turn right side out by flipping each scrap over the seam. Use a tool to poke out or pull out the corners. There should be no raw edges of fabric along the edge of the piece because they are either in the seam OR they are folded under. 9) Carefully press the outer edge - taking care not to press the batting, as it might melt depending on fiber content. 10) The result is a piece with finished edges like this: 11) Top stitch close to the edge, This will secure all the folded under edges of each scrap. 12) When you are on the 4th side, approaching the beginning of your stitch line, turn the corner about 1/4" or 3/8" before you get there, to start the 'spiral' of stitching. The next steps are done just like Kawandi by hand, but you continue sewing on the machine. 13) To place the next piece, fold under 2 edges. Finger press or iron as necessary. Overlap the unfinished edges of previous scraps. 14) to place a color into a long strip, fold under 3 edges, staying aware of where you will place another scrap to overlap. 15) To keep a small scrap straight as you sew over the edge, it may be necessary to use long tweezers or stiletto. 16) Continue placing scraps and sewing in concentric rectangles, into the center. Note: this picture is from another project than the ones above. 17) Prepare the final scrap by folding under all 4 sides, and sewing the ever smaller rectangles/squares of stitching. 18) For the piece made of batiks, I decided the center "squares" looked better on the diagonal. Although not traditional at all, I've already broken so many 'rules', that I just decided to make this mine. Also, I'm aware that traditional Kawandi have 'folded flowers' in the 4 corners. Include them if you wish. Make it yours! Paula RESOURCES: How to make a Kawandi by hand by Kieren Dutcher https://youtu.be/yFd0xEfKeto How to make a Kawandi by machine (with binding) by Mel Beach https://pieceloveandhappiness.blogspot.com/2019/03/modern-kawandi-making.html Margaret Fabrizio travels to India to learn Kawandi from Siddi quilters: https://youtu.be/WqdIswL96q4 Margaret Fabrizio shows her own Kawandi quilts, and talks about making them in her own style. https://youtu.be/4NRxqOqp_UA
This week I made the CHELSEA Tee in TERRA linen! I have been eyeing this simple tee for months and finally downloaded the free pattern to give it a try. The CHELSEA Tee features a boxy silhouette, raglan sleeves, and a bias binding neckline. Like so many of Fabrics-store’s patterns, the Chelsea Tee is a...
Choose the best fabric for embroidery. I'll tell you which embroidery fabric is my favorite, so you can start your next hand embroidery project.
Sewing knits and stretchy fabric beautifully is actually very easy, and this can all be done on a sewing machine. No serger required.
How To Make A Fun Fabric Fish - DIY Sewing Free Tutorial and Pattern
Learn how to choose sewing machine needles to sew denim. Whether you're sewing jeans or upcycling denim, these tips will help you.
Want to give your quilting some added texture and depth? Try machine quilting with 12 wt. thread! It's not difficult, but there are 5 secrets you must know.
Sashiko Stitch Instructions for beginners A trend in embroidery: Sashiko stitching and visible mending. This ancient Japanese craft is easy to learn. It gives quick results and makes stunning textile pieces. In this tutorial we explain the basics you need to know about Sashiko stitching. We share our recommendations for Sashiko materials. You will also
If you are anything like me, you're always looking for that new top to help freshen up your existing fabulous wardrobe. Well, look no more; Mood has a brand
Not all bodies are the same shape, so it's natural to need to do a small adjustment or two to get the bodice sitting nicely. It is easy to alter a
how to create shirring with elastic thread. It's a quick and easy technique that's really popular in women's wear right now.
Securing thread on the backside can't be avoided in hand embroidery. These tips will help you to end embroidery stitches in a safe way.
First things first, before you dive into your embroidery project, I’d like to show you how you can start and finish your embroidery thread to secure it. Traditionally using knots to start and finish your embroidery thread is a big no-no. And there are several reasons for this. Firstly the knot can show through your
This super simple fabric basket with handles can be used for anything. Free Simple Pattern and step-by-step Sewing Tutorial
Here I cover 7 different thread starts: Ways to make that first stitch so that your thread stays in place and keeps your back tidy!
Sashiko Stitch Instructions for beginners A trend in embroidery: Sashiko stitching and visible mending. This ancient Japanese craft is easy to learn. It gives quick results and makes stunning textile pieces. In this tutorial we explain the basics you need to know about Sashiko stitching. We share our recommendations for Sashiko materials. You will also
How to Sew with Knit Fabrics Tips for Beginners. Learn how to sew knit fabric. Find out what type of thread and needle to use and machine settings.
Do not fear to sew stretchy materials. Here is a great tip for sewing stable hems on stretchy knits. It is easier than you think.
Fabric that is stretchy can be a challenge to work with. Here's some helpful tips and tricks for how to embroider on stretchy fabric.
Follow along with Rosey as she tests out the stunning new double gauze range of fabrics from MaaiDesign. This comprehensive article considers everything from stitch length to seam finishes so that you have all the knowledge and confidence to sew something truly stunning for this summer.
Also known as: bullion stitch, caterpillar stitch, coil stitch, knot stitch, post stitch, worm stitch, Puerto Rico rose, grub knot This is an interesting stitch used to make simple motifs. I would say that this is an ‘elongated’ knot which can be...
Who doesn't love wide-leg printed pants? I know I do! Check out Mood's newest pattern, the Liv Pants. Add these to your transitional wardrobe with a bright
Below is a tutorial on how to shirr with elastic thread. Before we begin, I must mention that this is a compilation of shirring techniques which I have learned from 3 specific resources: Portabellopixie, Craftstylish, and Heather Ross's book Weekend Sewing. And away we go....... Supplies ~ 1 spool of elastic thread ~ matching thread (must match your fabric) ~ fabric (i used Robert Kaufman's Kona Cotton Celery) ~ 1/4" elastic (optional) Instructions 1. Finish the upper raw edge of the bodice. I like to finish it by making a casing for a 1/4" elastic band. If you have 2 separate pieces (bodice and skirt) sewn together, you can turn the seam allowance into a casing for an additional band of elastic at the waist line. Simply finish the raw edge of the seam allowance and sew the edge of the SA to the bodice. After I have shirred the fabric, I then thread the elastic through the casing. This helps maintain and reinforce the shape of the garment. For now, just make the casing or finish the raw edges. You may want to mark your shirring lines on the fabric before you begin. Its recommended to mark every 1/4" to 1/2". I use my sewing foot to mark it (eyeball it), which works just fine for me and eliminates a step. If you are going to mark your fabric, mark the right side of the garment (visible side of the garment). Also, use tailors chalk, disappearing fabric ink, or some sort of erasable mark. 2. Wind the bobbin by hand with the elastic thread. It is very important not to stretch the elastic thread as you wind it. This is why you must do it by hand. There can not be any tension in the elastic thread. 3. Insert your bobbin into your sewing machine as you normally would. 4. Pull up the elastic thread as you normally would for regular bobbin thread. 5. I like to shirr with my walking foot. If you do not have a walking foot, then a regular foot will be just fine. With the right side of your garment facing up (elastic thread should be on the side that will not be visible on the completed garment), begin to take a few stitches, then back stitch to secure your thread. Stitch from one end to the other. 7. When you get to the end of your first row of stitches, back stitch and clip the threads. Turn the garment and begin sewing your next row the same way you did the first row. Another option (which is quicker) is when you get to the end of your first row of stitches, lift the presser foot, move the fabric over so that the needle is positioned over the next row. Lower the presser foot and needle. Pivot the fabric. Begin sewing the next row of stitches. Always back stitch when you come to the end of the elastic thread and make sure you have enough thread to complete a row. You may notice your first couple of rows don't gather as much as you'd like. Don't worry. As you continue to stitch more rows, your garment will gather more. 8. When you have completed shirring/smocking your garment, spray it with water. You will see your garment gather up nice and tight. Press your garment gently. Do not smooth the iron over the garment. Lightly press the gathers. 9. Thread your elastic through the casing/casings. 10. Stitch the elastic band ends to the garment. That's it! You're a shirr genius! Happy Creating =) Jamie Update: The Honey Girl Dress/Top sewing pattern (shown above) is available at Phat Fabric. Here's the link.
In this sewing tutorial you will learn all about sergers sewing machines. Find out what a serger is, how to sew with a serger and what types of stitches sergers have. What does it do? What sewing techniques to look for in a serger/ overlock machine? Learn to use a serger for your sewing projects.
Learn how to square up fabric before cutting any pieces for your next quilt - especially when dealing with longer strips.
Fabric bunting isn’t hard to make, but you have to sew a bunch of triangles. This method cuts out a lot of time!
Learn how to finish a seam and when to use it with one of these 9 seam finishes. There are different seam finishes for knit and woven fabric.
A few years ago, I started to play with quilting clothes. The first few pieces turned out less than ideal. I didn’t know the paths to avoid the foibles of quilting. But after a few playful experiments and failed garments, things started to fall into place. I’ve put together this tutorial to share the things...
Sewing piping can add a professional touch to the edges of cushions, bags, quilts and clothing. Learn how to sew piping for beginners.
Learn how to darn tears and holes on fabric: Darning is also called invisible mending
