Hey guys! Welcome to the second post in our fabric series. I don’t need to repeat to you how much I love fabrics, that’s pretty obvious by now isn’t it? If you missed the last post you can read it her

If you have ever looked at a sewing pattern, you probably know how much information is packed into those small packages. From the type of pattern, materials needed, instructions, the pattern, and so on, it's not easy to know how to read a sewing pattern. The good news is that you get a lot of information to work with, from written and illustrated instructions, tips, alteration guidelines, and more. The not so good news is that reading a sewing pattern can be overwhelming for even the most experienced sewists. Fortunately, vintage and modern print sewing patterns, along with digital patterns all have similar information. When it comes to sewing basics, you will want to learn how to read a sewing pattern as one of the first things you figure out. It's important to learn how to understand a sewing pattern because sewing a dress, a pair of pants, shirt, or other items is a process that takes time, energy, and money that you don't want to lose. Even though every pattern has a particular set of instructions, sewing symbols, and notes, these sewing tips and tricks for patterns will help you gain knowledge to be prepared for your next project. Sign Up For More Free Patterns >>> Below, you will find one of our popular videos on how to read a sewing pattern as well as written instructions and pictures. Then, learn all about pattern symbols you will find on your sewing projects. From the grain line to the zipper markings and everything in between, you'll know exactly what all of the details on a pattern mean.

In today's culture of disposable fashion, the simple art of basic darning and mending has been all but forgotten.

Basic Stitches Britannica Online Encyclopedia Dressmaking is a craft of making dresses. It is the basis and the start of the fashion world. When you make dresses, you will be called a dressmaker or historically, modiste. Learning the basics of...

Hand stitching is an essential sewing skill every sewer should possess and master. This basic sewing skill is still very useful to many advanced projects.

Struggle to get patterns to fit your bust? Try doing a small or a full bust adjustment to get a better fit. As most patterns are cut to fit a B cup, you may need to make a full bust adjustment i

In Our Tools, Ourselves, we get to know fiber artisans of all walks, ages, styles and skill levels, by way of their tools. For more on the series, read the introduction. I’m enamored of Seattle photographer Kathy Cadigan‘s taste in knitting. (You’ll recall her Jón hat. See also Monochrome Tolt, Pembroke, Volcanic Maren, etc.) And […]

Sleeve designs can be a little bit intimidating. Drafting them is kind of a science on its own, and it’s hard to imagine what shape you need to start with if

This modern patchwork apron tutorial is a quick project for beginners! It's a unisex apron that fits all sizes and you only need basic sewing supplies.

5 ways to achieve a professional seam finish for the interior of your sewing projects - using the Luna Loungewear Pattern Collection.

Check out these different types of sewing machine stitches so you can master the basics. Learn the various types of sewing stitches in this beginners' guide.

When I first starting sewing, I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on patterns that I wasn’t sure I would know how to use, so I wondered: where can I find free (but stylish) women’s sewing patterns that I could print out in the comfort of my own home? The following 11 websites have collections of

Sew a beautifully fitting Shorts with this shorts pattern- with an elastic waist in the back and with a fitting waistband in the front with zippered opening

Hello! Nice to see you! Today I'm starting on the marathon explanation of my crochet square. I"m going to start with the basics, for new crocheters. I thought there might be some out there who would like to take up...

Learn how to make small round fabric baskets with our free sewing pattern. Cute DIY trinket baskets with Liberty of London Fabric.

Learn how to crochet a flower for beginners and get my favorite free easy crochet flower patterns, plus ideas for how to use your beautiful blooms!

Learn how to make the distinctive shawl collar type, drafted with the lapel and collar in one, for easy sewing and flattering style.

Sewing terms are important once you introduce yourself into the world of sewing, this way, you can be more vocal and conversational about your new projects.

This is the stitch I use when sewing two pieces of fabric together, like side seams on a bodice or stripes or anything that I later fold and finish the seam. Run the needle 2-3 times, with about 5 …

This Yarn Weight Categories Chart is an infographic with everything you need to know about knitting needles, yarn types, and projects. Since this printable yarn weight chart includes the yarn weight numbers from 0 to 7, the category, from lace to roving, the knitting needle sizes, in both US and metric measurements, as well as the ideal projects for each type of yarn, you're going to want to keep it nearby every time you're knitting. Not only is this guide to yarn weights great for a seasoned knitter, this chart is super helpful when looking for free knitting patterns for beginners who don't know much about yarn weights and related information regarding knitting. It's so nice to have on hand, we recommend printing it out and laminating it for regular use. Sign up for our free email newsletter for more amazing patterns and tutorials!

The Hana Tank + Dress Pattern features the bias binding method of finishing the neckline and armholes. While this method is a great scrap buster, the first few times you try it might be frustrating. It takes practice and a little patience to make sure all those seams lay flat with no puckering.

Learn these six common stitches and you can apply them to a myriad of projects.

This wee machine from John Lewis has been perfect for the girls as they each started to sew on a machine. Over the course of the last week I have been plagued with the phrase…’Can... Read The Post

The Hana Tank + Dress Pattern features the bias binding method of finishing the neckline and armholes. While this method is a great scrap buster, the first few times you try it might be frustrating. It takes practice and a little patience to make sure all those seams lay flat with no puckering.

Keeping track of all of the different stitch functions on your sewing machine can seem overwhelming, but with our free Guide to Mastering Different Stitches, you won't ever have to worry about not knowing the difference between a blend hem and a blind hem. This free printable guide to machine stitches is perfect for beginners, and lists basic stitches, as well as satin, buttonhole, and edge stitches. This beginner sewing guide is an excellent choice for your teen or tween who is just learning how to sew and even comes in handy if you're working with a new machine. Make machine stitching quick and simple with this guide to mastering stitches.

Easy and quick fingerless gloves knitting patterns for all skill levels. Choose from basic rib designs and cable knits.

The Hana Tank + Dress Pattern features the bias binding method of finishing the neckline and armholes. While this method is a great scrap buster, the first few times you try it might be frustrating. It takes practice and a little patience to make sure all those seams lay flat with no puckering.

Learn more about fabric types and how to use them for garments and upholstery through this guide. This will help you know your craft better.

If you’re a knitter, then you surely remember your first journey into the world of…

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.

The Petal Pouches free knitting pattern is a perfect project for someone looking to add some charm and functionality to their repertoire.

(Image courtesy of http://0.tqn.com/d/diyfashion/) With our focus being upon obtaining a Sewing Kit this week, I thought it would be most helpful to review some basic stiches. (Image courtesy of http://www.sewdresses.com/) Okay, so you see the stitches, when and what do you use them for? Check out these links for more information! http://www.alternative-windows.com/stitches.htm http://cyberseams.com/article/105045/basics/how_to_sew_by_hand_basic_stitches.html http://home.clara.net/hutchal/curtains/sewguide.htm Get a scrap of material, and while you are watching a favorite show, try some of these. You need to practice so that you can use the stitches when you need them. Traditionally, they won't be pretty at first, but after a few stitches, you will get the hang of it! Impress you family and friends! It is surprising how much people marvel when you can quickly fix a garment.....because many of them have never seen it done. Increase your self-reliance skills while showing your family and the Lord that you are thankful for the goodness that you have been blessed with. Stitch away....Today!

Need I remind you that fabrics can either make or break your project. Read on for more info on our guide to different fabrics and their properties.

In today's culture of disposable fashion, the simple art of basic darning and mending has been all but forgotten.