Every week, I scour the web for free sewing patterns to share with my email subscribers. In the process, I’ve come across a LOT of incredible free sewing patterns for tops. I’m going to share the best patterns for women’s tops, including blouses, tunics, crop tops, summer tops, t-shirts, cami’s, and more. All of the … Read more
Here’s the simplest way to make hair tie bows out of fabric. I’ve created a step-by-step photo tutorial below, and a free pattern in 4 sizes. Give your hair tie (aka. ponytail) a new “oomph”. This is a great scrap fabric project idea. And it makes very cute diy gifts! Pin this image to bookmark … Read more
I bought 2 twisted ‘turban’ headbands ($5.50 and $24) and took them apart. Here’s exactly how to copy those professionally made headbands. This diy headband design includes: A twisted knot in the middle. Stretchy knit fabric, so it feels comfy. And the fabric edges won’t fray, so you don’t need to finish them. Elastic at … Read more
I interviewed 3 companies that make fabric scissors and/or sharpen them. Here’s their professional advice on how to sharpen fabric scissors and pinking scissors. The best way to sharpen fabric and pinking scissors is to send them to a professional sharpening service. Expect to pay about $7 – 20 (£6 – 15). You only need … Read more
A yard of fabric is 36″, 3 feet, 0.9144 meters, or 91.44cm. It looks like a yardstick, or about double your shoulder width. A “yard of fabric” only describes the length, not the width. Fabric widths often vary from 43″ (1.09m) to 60″ (1.5m). Fabric stores won’t cut the width, they only measure and cut … Read more
Cleaning and looking after your fabric scissors will make them cut smoothly and repel rust. Here are 4 steps to make your scissors last longer: Wipe your scissors after each use to remove waste fibers. Wash them to remove glue and dirt (stainless steel scissors only). Oil your scissors so they cut smoothly & don’t … Read more
I wanted to learn the best way to make oven mitts and gloves, so I headed to big department stores to see exactly how professionals make them. I compared cheap $7 oven mitts and pricier $33 ones. I learned that the best fabric for the outer layer is thick cotton, so it’s harder to burn … Read more
Here’s how Singer, Brother, and Janome manuals recommend changing a sewing machine needle. I reviewed at least 3 manuals from each brand, so I haven’t skipped important bits. If your machine is from another brand, this post will still apply. Most brands use the same process. Here’s how to change a sewing machine needle (in a nutshell): … Read more
This is a follow-up from my previous post, how to thread a bobbin. Here’s how to put a threaded bobbin in your sewing machine. This process can be broken down into 3 main stages: Insert the bobbin into your sewing machine. Thread the upper thread system and needle. Pull the bobbin thread up. There are … Read more
Here’s how to thread a bobbin, no matter what type of sewing machine you have. I examined 11+ sewing machine manuals, from old basic models to fancy computerized ones. I focused on Singer, Brother, and Janome machines, but this post applies to other brands too because they’re largely the same. I’m going to start with … Read more