I wanted to learn the best way to make double oven mitts, so I went to big department stores to see exactly how professionals make them. I even bought 3 mitts and deconstructed them! This tutorial and free pattern (download pattern here) are based on this research. I’ve also included lots of tips to help you achieve … Read more
I’m a big online shopper when it comes to fabric. You just can’t beat the range of options. Here’s a roundup of the best online fabric stores for UK buyers. I’ve tried many of these stores myself, so I’ll share my opinions on them and what they’re known for. Pin this image to bookmark the … Read more
So you’ve just bought some gorgeous new fabric and are ready to cut it? WAIT! There are 5 important things to do first or you’ll have problems later on. For example, your new top might shrink after it’s first wash, or the colors may run. Here’s how to prepare your fabric for cutting and sewing: … Read more
Thread snips are small cutting tools for tasks that require fine and detailed control. They have short blades so they’re designed to make small cuts, not long ones. They’re often used to trim threads close to the fabric, cut seam allowances, and trim yarn. Unlike small embroidery scissors, thread snips are often spring-loaded, so they … Read more
If you’re new to sewing or quilting you’ve probably heard about rotary cutters. But what are they? When do you use them? And how? I’m going to answer these questions today, and more! Here’s what we’ll cover: What are rotary cutters? Uses? Different types and sizes What to look for when buying a rotary cutter … Read more
Today I’m going to share: What are pinking shears? Different sizes Uses Not used for Do they really prevent fraying? Are they worth buying? Best pinking shears How to use them Why are my shears stiff? Can pinking shears be sharpened? How? What are pinking shears (for fabric)? Pinking shears are scissors that make small … Read more
Here are the most stylish sewing patterns I’ve found for women’s pants. This list includes paper patterns, free pdf patterns to print at home, and plus sizes. I’ve pulled together useful information about each pattern like sizing, fabric requirements, and whether they’re beginner-friendly. Here are the main pant styles I’ve covered (in order): ‘Pull-on’ pants … Read more
Polyester can be stretchy or non-stretchy depending on how the fabric is made. As a general rule, knitted polyester fabrics are the most stretchy (eg. t-shirts), woven polyester fabrics basically have no stretch (eg. flowy blouses), and woven polyester fabrics with elastic fibers have some stretch (eg. work pants). I explain this further below with … Read more
If you want to remember what’s in your fabric stash, here’s a free swatch book template for you to print at home! This template includes: Fabric name Fiber composition Fabric length x width Care instructions Notes (for things like fabric weight, pattern repeat measurements, supplier, price) “Pre-washed?” tickbox “No longer in stash?” tickbox Printer settings: … Read more
Here are the most popular fabrics used for dresses. I’ve listed their names, described what each fabric is like, and what types of dresses they’re used for. I also interviewed a fashion industry veteran on how to choose the best fabric for your DIY dresses. Polina spent over a decade doing fashion development and production … Read more