Whether you’re just learning to sew, teaching a novice sewer, or just need a little extra security to make even seamlines, there’s a seam guide to help you with the process. In addition to sewing seams, guides are also helpful for evenly applying trims equidistance from an edge, hemming, decorative stitching, or topstitching. While the […]
Handy Notions: Tracing Wheels
The tracing wheel may be a sewing notion you were first introduced to when you began sewing, as it’s a handy way to transfer construction markings from the pattern to the fabric. Whether it’s patch pocket locations, a zipper opening, buttonholes, darts or pleats, using a tracing wheel is a quick way to get accurate […]
Triple Straight Stitch
Often overlooked because the machine icon doesn’t really look like the actual stitch, the triple straight stitch is a fun one, both for utility use and for embellishments. Depending on the machine brand, the stitch may also be called a straight stretch stitch or a backstitch. On the stitch screen or dial, it appears as […]
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 […]
Corner Cues: Mitered Binding Corners
If binding a quilt is one of your least favorite tasks, and that simple directive in the instructions that says “Miter the corners as you bind the edges” leaves you bewildered, read on. A mitered binding corner is simply a clever way to make a neat flat corner. It creates a fold at 45° to […]
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 […]
Fast and Easy Fringed Edge Finishes
If you’re looking for a fast and easy edge finish, there’s nothing easier than fringe! It works on single-layer placemats, scarves, patches and pockets, or with a little more effort, you can insert fringe into a seam or hem. The results of fringing are not always what you expect, as some fabrics are woven with […]
Fireside Chat: Anita Morris, Anita by Design
In this video, Sheryl Belson interviewed Anita Morris from Anita by Design. You will love Anita’s exuberance, authenticity, joy and sparkling smile! She shares her passion for helping people learn to sew, her unique way of planning her sewing projects, as well as how she has weathered some of life’s hardest moments. This chat is […]
