In sewing, we do a lot of measuring! Measuring bodies, pattern pieces, fabric, and more. So you’ll need the right tools for the job. If you’re new to sewing, the only measuring tools you need are a flexible 60″ (150cm) tape measure, a 6″ seam/sewing gauge, and a 12″ (30cm) straight ruler that’s ideally clear. … Read more
Here are the best sewing patterns I’ve found for teddy bears! I’ve covered different styles, sizes, and formats (printed and PDF). I’ve also rated them based on how beginner-friendly they are. Skip to: Free patterns Small & easy bears for beginners PDF patterns Paper patterns Memory bears Vintage bears Free teddy bear patterns (printable PDFs): … Read more
As a frequent fabric dyer and lover of all things vibrant and dark, I’m no stranger to black dye. After a failed high-school experiment of bleaching a favorite pair of jeans and then dyeing them with “black” dye resulted in a mousey gray pair of jeans, I ended up on a bit of a quest … Read more
The most popular sewing machine brands Babylock Bernina Brother Elna Husqvarna Viking Jaguar Janome Juki Singer Pfaff Toyota Note: I’m only including brands that still exist today, and this post is focused on their home sewing machine ranges only. Brother Who are they? Brother was founded in 1908 by Kanekichi Yasui in Japan (source) under … Read more
Natural dyes are such a fun way to create color using ingredients that are available in your backyard. I often see natural dyeing as an experiment. I find it’s more enjoyable if I’m not tied to creating an exact shade. Instead, I approach the project with a desire to understand what range of colors can … Read more
When choosing the best dye for your project, the most important thing to be aware of is the fiber content of the items you’re dyeing. This will help you choose the most reliable and permanent dye, as different types of dyes are formulated to work with different types of fibers. The best dye for cotton, … Read more
If you’ve been to a craft store before, you’ve probably seen an overwhelming number of fabric cutting tools. What are they all used for? And which ones do you actually need? I’m going to explain all the main types of sewing tools used for cutting. This is a beginner-friendly guide with names, pictures, and use … Read more
Here are t-shirt dress sewing patterns I’ve found for women and girls. I’ve included printed and digital PDF patterns. I’ve also described each pattern to help you quickly choose the right one for you. This includes information about sizing, design features, fabric requirements, and whether they’re beginner-friendly patterns or not. Skip to: Free patterns for … Read more
I researched the best slip dress patterns in PDF and paper format. I even found 2 for free! This post includes slip dresses designed to be worn as undergarments with sheer clothes, worn as sleepwear, and worn outside. I’ve shared useful information about each pattern, like the sizing, design details, fabric needed, and whether it’s … Read more
If you’re not sure what to make with wool fabric, here are my best ideas for projects and sewing patterns that suit wool. Contents list: How to choose a sewing project for wool Sewing project ideas for different wools Coat patterns for women Coat patterns for men Jacket patterns Anorak patterns Vest patterns Blazer patterns … Read more