10/24/05 - Larry Boy Veggie Tales Costume
Here's a costume that About Collectibles guide Barbara Crews made for her grandson.
10/22/05 - Halloween Costume Exhibit
Have a look and get some ideas from nine of the costumes I've made over the years. See a cell phone, indian, princess, clowns, Rainbow Brite and more.
10/20/05 - Sewing in your area?
I know sewing supplies and fabric stores availablity is different throughout the world. Show us where you are and how the shopping is in your area.
10/18/05 - Singer Quantum XL6000 Embroidery & Sewing Machine
I recently had the opportunity to open the box of a brand new Singer Quantum XL6000 Embroidery & Sewing Machine. I didn't get any play time but I was very impressed with what I found in the box and the few stolen minutes I had with the manual. Find out more here.
10/17/05 - Don't miss this trim!
A fun whimsical trim that I almost missed judging it on the bolt! Learn how to make sure you don't lose inches of trim with a cutting tip.
10/16/05 - New Trims
Wright's has it's new line of trims in the stores... making our creativity and money saving options endless.
10/15/05 - Easy Designer Jeans at a HUGE Savings!
Designer jeans cost a fortune! Save money and turn ordinary jeans into designer jeans... with YOU being the designer. See one of many options here.
10/14/05 - Child's Nun Costume
Sometimes we have to get creative and combine patterns to achieve what we want. See how I combined various patterns to create a child's nun costume here.
10/11/05 - Needle Position
You've had a sewing machine for years and it's time to move to a new machine. It seemed super when the dealer showed you the machine, until you go to actually sew and the presser foot that you used as a guide isn't with the machine. Find the improved method over the relic sewing machine you are used to here.
10/10/05 - Sewing Thread as an Art Palette
As I arrived home at the airport, my family insisted I go to the airport gallery. Wanting to get home, I was not coperative but they were insistant. They knew what they were talking about! I know I should preserve my thread but this showed me a whole new idea for displaying the endless colors avalable.
9/29/05 - Packing Skirts for Travel
Hilda shares her solution to packing skirts for traveling and never having to press them when she arrives.
9/13/05 - Halloween
Halloween is around the corner! Have you started your search for the perfect costume? Start gathering your ideas here.
09/08/05 - ''My Double Deluxe'' Dressform
Anyone who sews can tell you what a pain it is to try and have someone "help" mark changes for you. If you've ever "thought" about having a dressform, learn about the newest one on the market and where it's on sale here.
09/08/05 - Poodle Skirt Tips
Making Poodle skirts should be an easy task this year. Wright's and Simplicity joined forces to make it easy. Learn how here.
08/08/05 - I bought MY Serger!
Many years ago, working in a fabric store, I drooled at the sergers on display daily. Now I have a machine with all the capabilities
07/18/05 - Flower Petal Pillow
Pillows are a fast economical way to add flare to your home decorating. My daughter and her friends submitted their color choices when they saw this pillow. Find free pattern and full directions here. This pillow is an intermediate to advanced project due to the bulk of the petals.
07/09/05 - School Dress Code Compliance Alterations
As I watched the morning news, I listened to the complaints about the public schools imposing a dress code. I for one, am ecstatic to see these restrictions imposed! Find some ideas to alter v-neck shirts here.
06/15/05 - Pillowcases
I had never even heard of housewife pillowcases until I searched for the best pillowcase directions I could find. You'll find a vast assortment of free directions to suit any learning style here.
06/07/05 - Quick Father's Day Gifts
Find an assortment of gift ideas with links to free patterns here.
06/01/05 - Sewing Magazines
Once summer arrives we are out and about! Between waiting at games for the kids, time at the beach and traveling, we have less time to stay connected to the Internet and see what's new in sewing. Magazines are a great solution to have "take it with you" reading. Subscriptions are much less expensive than buying issues off the new stand.
05/23/05 - Step By Step Replacing a Jeans Zipper
Jean zippers usually have top stitching that is almost impossible to duplicate. Find my solution to replace a broken zipper without removing the top stitching here.
05/16/05 - A Nail Apron for Woodworking
A few simple changes to the free BBQ apron directions, makes a great nail apron with a pencil holder.
05/09/05 - Sewing & Woodworking
This past weekend I spent time helping to build a play house. Fabric is my construction medium of choice, so wood was a bit intimidating. To my surprise, they have more in common than I thought. Find ways to communicate with your woodworking friends or spouse here.
05/15/05 - A Nail Apron for Woodworking
A few simple changes to the free BBQ apron directions, makes a great nail apron with a pencil holder.
04/26/05 - Nail Pouch For Dad
What could tell Dad how much he is loved and appreciated, more than a homemade gift that he can actually use. This is a simple project that the kids maybe able to make themselves. Find free directions here.
04/07/05 - Sewing Definitions and Terms
Find definitions and links to more information here.
04/06/05 - Preshrinking Q&A
What is preshrinking and why should you bother... find the answers here.
04/08/05 - Basting
Basting is a commonly used term in sewing. Learn the ins and outs of basting here... it doesn't use the turkey baster from the kitchen... honest
04/07/05 - Fabric Grainlines
Every pattern piece has grainline markings. What do they mean and why are they important? Find the answers here.
03/25/05 - Duck Tape Clothes, Roses, Wallets and More
Who would have thought, when I was learning to sew, that there would be a contest for prom clothes made from Duck Tape™ with $5000 scholarships being awarded... not me! I'm game for almost anything that keeps introducing sewing to every generation! I hope the winners are seriously considering a career in fashion with the creativity that is shown in ever entry.
03/22/05 - Sewing & Quilting Images, Graphics & Stationary
You don't have to be a computer wiz or a graphic artist to use great sewing and quilting images. Find information for making your own stationary and more here.
03/23/05 - Saving Sewing Memories
My Scrap Smart Image CDs got me started. For decades quilts have been a symbol of history and considered heirlooms. Yet as I tried to describe my first sewing projects to my daughter, I had nothing to show her. Why haven't we given the same respect to the things we sew?
03/19/05 - Easter Bunny, Bears, Pocketbooks & More
I've kept my printer busy this week with all kinds of adorable free patterns for stuffed animals, bunnies, bears and more. I think I will use these to keep my pledge for March and making Christmas gifts throughout the year. Follow the links to some of the most adorable stuffed bunnies, bears, pocketbooks, toys and pillows you have ever seen.
03/20/05 - Storage Solutions For Free Patterns and Internet Print Outs
When ever I find a free pattern on the Internet, I am compelled to print it out then and there. I don't recommend that anyone just bookmark a favorite to print it out later. There are gazillion reasons why internet pages come up "Page Not Found" and that book marked pattern may be gone forever. Learn my solution to keep new print-outs and cut pattern pieces organized here.
03/10/05 - Diamonds - A Girl's Best Friend -- Sew News
Simple topstitching, in varying thread weights, adds dimensional interest to an otherwise plain silk blouse. Find all the directions and details here.
03/09/05 - Juice Pouch Purses & More!
I mentioned these projects over lunch yesterday and got looks as if I had grown three heads. Take a look at all the creations sewn with things you've been throwing in the garbage and see if you don't become as fascinated as I am.
03/10/05 - Free Software
Everyone wants a pattern on hand when the mood strikes. Find links to a great free software download to create patterns for all kinds of accessories here.
02/23/05 - Fabric Fantasyland
I recently asked Linda Greipentrog about the fascination of shopping in Hong Kong for fabric. She is such a wealth of information, I asked her to share the information. Once you read what awaits any fabricaholic in Hong Kong, you may not be able to resist making the trip.
02/22/05 - February To Do List for Christmas
This month I'm going to work on Advent Calendars. My biggest set back is deciding which ones to make. Find a ton of options here.
02/12/05 - I Need Your Help!
The tax refund is due in any day... I need a new serger, I've found a sensational online deal, help me out and let me know what you would do by voting in the poll.
02/08/05 - Fabric Bowl Become Fabric Baskets
This week I played with an idea that was haunting me since I discovered the SnapSetter™ Tool and Snaps. With Easter around the corner, what better way to try my idea than making an Easter Basket.
01/31/05 - Staying Home and Achieving an Education
i frequently receive email asking for me to explain pattern making. Pattern making is not something that can be explained in an email. It is a science that takes experience and education to achieve. I recently had the opportunity to get on the inside of an online school. Learn more here.
01/27/05 - Cell Phone Case
This past week, we bought new cell phones, great phones, but too small for all my pocketbooks. I'm not about to throw away all my pocketbooks because the new cell phone is smaller. So necessity being the mother of invention -- I designed a cell phone case that will snap on to any accessory, be it a belt or a pocketbook strap.
01/30/05 - Setting Pronged Snaps
We all have a notion we stay away from due to past frustrations. Pronged snaps were one of those notions for me. I remember making baby clothes that ended up as rags because the snaps made holes before I got them set. I fond a tool that really does work and has STRONG snaps. Learn more about it here... and what the next new, free pattern on the site will be.
01/23/05 - Bitter Cold Face Warmer -- Fleece Scraps Project
Here's a very simple project that will use up your fleece scraps and keep your face warm in the bitter winter cold.
01/22/05 - Home-office Accents -- Sew News
A great article that offers free directions to use fabric and create coordinating Desk Blotter, Paper Tray, Memo Board and Self-adhesive Wastebasket. Don't miss the Special Offer!
01/22/05 - How to Use a Needle Threader
A few people emailed me recently questioning this little device. Once you know how to use it, you may never thread a needle without it again.
01/16/05 - Notebook Pencil & Pen Holder with Two Compartments
Pencil & Pen holders fall apart long before the binder. Here you'll find free full directions to make your own fabric version with duel compartments. The girls are bound to appreciate a descreet way keep personal supplies close at hand between classes.
01/10/05 - Spring Under Wraps -- Sew News
COOL SPRING EVENINGS are a perfect time to wrap yourself in this breezy, feminine scarf. This stylish yet classic accessory offers the perfect blend of fashion, warmth and grab-it-and-go ease. Full, free directions can be found here.
01/06/05 - Free Bags, Totes & Purse Sewing Projects
Many new links have been added. There are now many resources for making placemat purses.
01/04/05 - Preparing for Next Year
I do it every year! I put off sewing for Christmas gifts until the fall and by Christmas Eve I'm exhausted. This year I'm determined to be more organized. Find my January to-do-list here!
01/04/05 - Pocket Pack Tissue Cover
Pocket packs of tissues are great to have in your purse but all to often the plastic rips and the tissues are a mess before you were ready to use them. Make a durable fabric cover for the pack and preserve the tissues until you are ready for them. Find full free directions for two different style covers here.
12/12/04 - Converting Jeans to a Skirt
We all have jeans with tattered hems that would make a great skirt. Sew News has directions here.
12/10/04 - Quick Gifts on a Budget
Everyone loves to give a beautiful gift, if budget concerns are stopping you, think again. An inexpensive gift doesn't have to look cheap! Find ideas for gifts that you can make for pennies for everyone.
12/03/04 - Fabric Trick Wallet
This wallet is a small, relatively simple project that makes a great stocking stuffer and uses up some of the small scraps of fabric that we just can't part with. It will last a lot longer then the popular paper version because fabric is more durable.
12/03/04 - Elf Costume Shoes
Tis the season! Here's a pattern and directions to make elf shoes for your Christmas costuming needs.
11/29/04 - Buyers Guide
Even if you aren't shopping, you may want to leave one of these pages up for your gift buying friend, partner or spouse. You'll find descriptions and price compaison links for informational sewing books, fiction that will entrance anyone who loves fabric and sewing, online sewing machines, online embroidery machines, online sergers and irons.
11/29/04 - Fringe Benefits -- Sew News
This fun, easy-to-make scarf is sure to add pizzazz to any accessories wardrobe. Find full free directions here.
11/29/04 - Quilt For a Cure
The sewing community is vast and unbelievably generous! In case there was ever a doubt in my mind, I received an email this week from the Editors of American Patchwork & Quilting magazine. Read on and visit the auction the see what a wonderful community of sewing and quilting friends can do!
11/03/04 - Outdoor Cover Patterns -- Mower, Motorcycle, Grill
Outdoor items, such as motorcycles, grills, mowers and more, come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Special order covers for these items can cost a small fortune. Here you'll find directions to make a pattern for any outdoor item you want to cover.
10/23/04 - Fade to White - Sew News
With a power drill, grinder stones and a bottle of bleach, you can distress jeans and add character to any denim project. The beauty of this method is that you have complete control of the bleach when you're creating designs. Find full details here.
10/21/04 - First Impressions -- Sew News
MAKE YOUR MARK on rich pile fabrics with an embossing technique that's easy yet elegant. Choose a rubber stamp (or two or three), heat up your iron, pull out some rich velvet or fuzzy fleece-and let your singular style lead the way. Find full details here.
10/13/04 -Fast, Fun & Easy Fabric Boxes -- Book Review and a Variation
I admit addiction! After playing with all the fabric bowl option, my mother knew just how much fun I was having and bought me Fast, Fun & Easy Fabric Boxes by Linda Johansen. See what the book holds and a simple variation to make one of the boxes in to a desk caddy.
10/12/04 - Fabric Bowl Center Piece
I've admitted my addiction! If you have become ovewhelmed with fabric bowls or think just the bowl isn't enough as a gift. Here's a simple, inexpensive way to make a centerpiece using left over rolls and dried floral filler.
10/08/04 - Fast, Fun & Easy Fabric Bowls -- Book Review
I've gone and done it! Listening to everyone about "Fabric Bowls" on the forum and the pattern in Sew News special issue, "Sew Up the Holidays" got me started. Compare prices and find out why you are hearing SO much about these bowls.
09/29/04 - Pillow with Inset Color
Pillows are a quick way to change the look of a room and add color. Adding a zipper allows you to launder the pillow cover and re-use the same pillow form. This 14" pillow that has a contrasting inset in the front and a zipper in the back.
09/27/04 - Halloween Spider Costume
Halloween brings out creativity and breaks the sewing rules. Halloween costumes do not require perfect construction, so have some fun. Use a black outfit, add arms and create a spider!
09/27/04 - Little Black Bag
From Sew News -- YOU SEE THEM EVERYWHERE and now you can make your own bare-necessity bag with buttons to match your style. They make great little gifts, too. Free Directions can be found here.
09/13/04 - Halloween Costumes, Inspiration and Books
Time saving organizationla tips, over 150 links to free Halloween costume directions and Halloween books that will get you started on any Halloween costume.
08/23/04 - Soft & Cuddly
A chenille-trimmed quilt and matching pillow are perfect for your child to curl up with at nap time. And when the lights are off, the appliqué stitching glows in the dark!
08/23/04 - Ladybug Pajama Bag
Pajama bags are a great way to help a child start the day with a "touch" of being organized and picking up for themselves. Make this cute ladybug to keep the job fun! Make extras to have on hand for gifts! Complete free directions and pattern can be found here!
08/16/04 - Search and Win
Find the hidden image before August 31,2004 and enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of: Embroidery Machine Essentials: Quilting Techniques by Linda Turner Griepentrog. Find details here. Expires August 31, 2004.
07/09/04 - Insulated Totes For Soda & Water Bottles
Bring your own beverage to parades and community events and keep them cold. You'll find free directions for insulated bottle totes in various sizes for most popular water and soda bottles here. Directions for an optional strap are included.
07/09/04 - Insulated Two Liter Bottle Covers
Large bottles of soda are less expensive at parties and picnics, but keeping them cold can be a challange. Expand your party theme and keep the drinks cold by making insulated covers for the bottles.
07/01/04 - Ruffled Brim Toddler Hat
We all know that one of the keys to preventing skin cancer is starting early. Sun bonnets do more than look cute, they protect a child's head, ears and neck from sun damage. Make one to match every outfit!
07/01/04 - Fluted Toddler Hat
A simple hat for a boy or girl, with enough brim to protect their ears and neck from the sun. Make one to match every outfit or from novelty prints to make any child smile. Find full directions and a free pattern here.
06/18/04 - Quick Gift - Party Time from Sew News
Need a gift in less than an hour? This colorful, one-size-fits-most apron with matching oven mitt is the answer. Find free full directions here!
06/18/04 - US Flag Etiquette
Fourth of July and summer outings have everyone in the US displaying the flag with pride. No one is deliberately disrespecting the flag but it is happening. Learn about the things you should NOT sew using a flag and find directions for making a USA flag here.
06/04/04 - Embellish Garments with Frayed Patches
You may have all kinds of paper pieced quilt blocks that you started and never got around to finishing. You may have embroidery samples that were tests before you embroidered the finished item. You have all kinds of fancy stitches available on your sewing machine that you never use. Here is just one way to justify all those stitch options and put all these things that are too good to throw away but taking up valuable space in you sewing area. Let's face it... we all need to make space for more fabric!
05/20/04 - Sew Your Own Purse
There is a way to have a purse to match every outfit without breaking the bank! This purse can be made with a drawsting closure or closed with a small piece of hook and loop tape by adding elastic to the casing that would have been a drawstring. Find free full directions and the pattern here!
05/20/04 - Sew News Magazine - Keep Your Cool!
IMAGINE CHILLING OUT ON A SWELTERING SUMMER DAY with a cool moist cloth on the back of your neck. You can feel cool and look great wearing an attractive neck scarf filled with hidden water-soaked polymer crystals. The scarf is an easy, fast project made from readily available materials. Whip up several for guests at your next barbeque, or join a charity project and sew some for U.S. troops. Find full directions here!
05/04/04 - Sharing Sewing Experience
Sewing, to me, is a stress relief, a creative outlet, has seen me through times where I had few financial resources to cloth my children and so much more. I knew sewing is a huge part of my life and many others. So what could I do? Find my solution, what my daughter will be modeling for 4H Fashion Revue and ways you can help here.
05/04/04 - Bed Linens Decorate the Bathroom
Have you ever had a set of bedding that you just couldn't part with? I had a set my grandmother had given me many years ago. Find out how I brought them to life in a different room than they were intended for here.
05/03/04 - Sew News Magazine - Pillow Party
Stamping fabric becomes child's play when you turn it into a party for kids. Whether it’s a birthday party, slumber party or holiday celebration, stamping will provide hours of fun for children of all ages. Directions for making a pillowcase are included.
04/02/04 - Cat Mouse Toy
This little mouse takes very little fabric and will keep any cat happy and busy. Consider making extras for your local animal shelter or rescue organization. The toy features a hook and loop closed bottom so fresh catnip can be added whenever it is needed.
04/02/04 - Fleece & Cotton Blanket
This blanket makes a quick gift or home accessory. It utilizes the warmth and comfort of fleece yet has the charm of a cotton quilt. A couch size throw and a smaller version that is adored by our cat for her favorite spot to lounge, are both found here.
04/02/04 - Wedding Ring-bearer Pillow with ring box
This ring pillow eliminates the need to fuss with tying and un-tying ribbons during the ceremony. The pillow shown here was used at my daughter's wedding.
03/19/04 - Sew News Magazine - The Basics: Markings
Marking the pieces for your sewing project is an important--and actually timesaving --part of ensuring a successful project. Taking the time to do a good job of it will ensure the best possible results. As you become a more experienced sewer, you may choose shortcut techniques, but don't avoid this step altogether. Find details here.
03/19/04 - Sew News Magazine - At Home: Made for Shade
WITHOUT SEWING A STITCH, a plain shade can be made by ironing fabric to a fusible backing, trimming the edges and attaching the shade to a roller. By adding a stitched scalloped border and a decorative rod, a shade becomes both a decorative and functional room accent. Find more here.
03/05/04 - Sew News Magazine - April 2004 Making Connections
"Making Connections" is a listing of mail-order resources published in the print edition of Sew News.
03/05/04 - Sew News Magazine - March Sewing Q&A
Sew News "Sewing Q&A" is a growing archive of questions answered in the print edition of Sew News since March 2000.
03/05/04- Sew News Magazine - March 2004
Find what's new for the Sew News March issue here.
02/21/04 - Sew News Magazine - Tulle Treasures
Add sparkle to a scarf.
02/21/04 - Sew News Magazine - Teen Scene
Complete this patchwork purse in an afternoon.
02/07/04- Sew News Magazine - March 2003 Making Connections
"Making Connections" is a listing of mail-order resources published in the print edition of Sew News.
02/01/04 - Sew News Magazine - March Sewing Q&A
Sew News "Sewing Q&A" is a growing archive of questions answered in the print edition of Sew News since March 2000.
02/01/04 - Sew News Magazine - March 2004
Find what's new for the Sew News March issue here.
01/23/04 - Sew News Magazine - Design with Doupioni
If you don't enter, you can't win! Click here for the Design With Doupioni contest rules and entry form. You could win a Baby Lock Ellure embroidery machine or other great prizes.
01/23/04 - Sew News Magazine - Heart to Heart
Whether you Valentine is for your one-and-only, or your kids need a few dozen for their classmates, these ideas will get you started. Using your sewing machine, buttons, ribbons, thread, and any other notions you can think of, you'll melt their hearts with your clever creations.
01/23/04 - Sew News Magazine - February 2004 Making Connections
"Making Connections" is a listing of mail-order resources published in the print edition of Sew News.
01/09/04 - Sew News Magazine - February Sewing Q&A
Sew News "Sewing Q&A" is a growing archive of questions answered in the print edition of Sew News since March 2000.
01/09/04 - Sew News Magazine - Sew News: The Spring Fashion Collection
We all have wardrobe favorites that are like old friends ... always there when we need them. This season, The Fashion Collection, created by Sew News and The McCall Pattern Co., introduces items in sizes 4 to 24 destined to join their ranks. Includes links to free embroidery designs. Pattern offer expires June 30, 2004.
01/09/04 - Sew News Magazine - Sew News - February 2004
Find the full table of contents for the February 2004 issue, with links to the online articles here.
01/09/04 - Sew News Magazine - Blueberry Quilt
Try your hand at quilting with this simple strip-pieced design. Throw and twin sizes are online.
12/19/03 - Sew News Magazine - The Basics - choosing a pattern
Introducing an on-going series explaining the basics of sewing. This month explore things you may never have known about choosing a pattern. Links to pattern companies are included.
12/19/03 - Sew News Magazine - January Sewing Q&A
Sew News "Sewing Q&A" is a growing archive of questions answered in the print edition of Sew News since March 2000.
12/19/03- Sew News Magazine - 2003 Sew News Index
The 2003 Sew News index is now online in two formats. PDF format for ease in printing and with links to this years features that appeared online.
12/05/03 - Sew News Magazine - Letter from Linda
Notice anything different? We hope so! Find the details here.
12/05/03 - Sew News Magazine - January 2004 Making Connections
"Making Connections" is a listing of mail-order resources published in the print edition of Sew News.
12/05/03- Sew News Magazine - January 2004
Find what's new for the Sew News January 2004 issue here.
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