The Bernette B48 (Amazon link) is a combination serger / coverstitch machine, which means it can sew serger and coverstitch stitches. You just need to convert the machine between each mode. (Note: a serger is called an “overlocker” in the UK and Australia). I’ve had my B48 for 3 years. I’ve made a huge variety … Read more
I’ve had an overlocker-coverstitch machine for almost 3 years now (the Bernette 48). I’ve made a bit of everything on it, including t-shirts, lingerie, swimwear, and activewear. An overlocker-coverstitch combo machine is a single sewing machine that can perform overlock and coverstitch stitches. These machines offer a powerful suite of options and save more space … Read more
If you’re about to start your first patchwork quilt, you’ll need to learn how to cut fabric yardage into accurate squares. I’ve described multiple methods based on what tools you have (rotary cutter or scissors), and how many squares you want to cut. Contents list: How to prepare your fabric: wash and dry it (optional), … Read more
With so many options available, choosing the correct thread for your sewing project can be daunting – but we’ve got you covered! Today, we’ll take an in-depth look at 21 different types of sewing thread, plus tips and tricks for how and when to use each one. Overview In nine out of ten cases, your … Read more
In addition to using silk for my handmade work blouses, I also made my wedding dress out of silk! The dress has a princess-seamed bodice and a three-layer circle skirt made from hand-dyed silk satin, chiffon, and gauze. Each type of silk required a slightly different treatment, as will the fabric you’re sewing with – … Read more
I’ve been dyeing fabric for over a decade. I even dyed my handmade silk wedding dress! Here are 4 ways to dye silk fabric, how to choose the right method for your project, and step-by-step instructions. Contents list: What’s the best way to dye silk? Can you dye silk dresses, clothes, curtains, etc? My fabric … Read more
Wool is one of my absolute favorite fibers to work with. I’ve sewn many trousers, shirts, coats, and jackets using different types of wool. It’s generally a hard-wearing, hard-to-soil fabric, with great temperature-controlling properties (meaning it will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer). If you’re in a rush, here’s a … Read more
Natural dyes can be an amazing way to add eco-friendly color to silk fabric, and a perfect opportunity to learn more about the plants that grow in your area. There’s a huge amount of variation in natural dyeing recipes and each one produces a different result. This is an overview of the most common techniques. … Read more
Does your daughter’s doll need a new outfit? Here are the best sewing patterns I’ve found for 18″ doll clothes. I included digital PDF patterns (you print these at home) and paper ones. 11 of the digital ones are free! Contents list: Dresses Formal party & wedding dresses Tops Pants & shorts Outerwear Swimwear & … Read more
Silky fabrics can seem daunting, but armed with the right pattern you’ll be thrilled with what you can create! To give you some ideas for your next project, we’ve compiled 19 of our favorite sewing patterns for different silk fabrics and sewists with any level of experience! These projects suit woven fabrics with that signature … Read more