CRAFTIVISION

LOVE this shirt ... found a great tutorial and I thought I would share it with you. Check a tutorial at Welcome to the Good Life, she used these videos: drafting the pattern and constructing the twist top

P.S. ... if you need a basic knit top pattern, check out BurdaStyle's Lydia ... it's only $1. (I use my own pattern, but I know not everyone is as crazy as me ;p) I hate that it has a faced neckline, but that can easily be changed by using any of these other tutorials that I posted on Craftivision

Swirled Bias Sleeve

2011-05-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

pretty!!! check out the complete tutorial at Threads.

Fabric Flowers ... lots and lots of tutorials (55 links)

2011-05-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

http://www.oneprettything.com/?s=fabric+flower&st=c

http://happyfind.typepad.com/happy_find/2009/11/fabric-flowers.html

http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/2009/10/flower-fruit-and-vegetable-templates.html

http://www.theartfulcrafter.com/fabric-flowers.html

http://blairpeter.typepad.com/weblog/2006/03/fabric_flowers.html

http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2009/08/make-fabric-flower-and-flower-tutorial.html

http://sewritzytitzy.blogspot.com/2008/11/from-annas-gardenfabric-flower-tutorial.html

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-kanzashi-folded-fabric-flower-pin/

http://calamitykim.typepad.com/calamity_kim/2009/05/how-to-make-fold-twist-fabric-flowers.html

http://lisapace.com/2009/05/15/fabric-flower/

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=25125.30

http://thriftycreativity.com/?p=497

http://www.oncewed.com/23104/wedding-blog/diy-wedding/diy-miniature-fabric-flower-garland/

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Fabric-Rose

http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/photogallery/paper-and-fabric-flowers

http://100layercake.com/blog/archives/4402

http://whipup.net/tag/fabric-flower/

http://craftstylish.com/item/26277/how-to-make-flower-hairpins-for-the-holidays

http://www.thefabricofourlives.com/Home-Decorating/Designer-Natalie-Chanin-Home-Projects/

http://www.mookychick.co.uk/diy_ethic/kanzashi_tutorial.php

http://www.coolmummy.co.uk/bigandlittleartist/?p=69

http://sewing.craftgossip.com/tutorial-frayed-fabric-flower-brooch/2009/03/17/

http://www.headhuggers.org/patterns/flower07.htm

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/2698652/fat_quarter_world_fabric_flower/

http://thedomesticdiva.wordpress.com/2007/11/26/embellishing-is-sew-creative/

http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/7714/silk-lotus-flower

http://whipup.net/2009/05/05/flower-ruffle-collar-tutorial/

http://www.craftstylish.com/item/9380/make-it-quilted-flowers

http://www.roserushbrooke.com/how-to-ruche.html

http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/burdastyle-how-to-make-your-love-bloom-forever-3379/

http://www.craftypod.com/2009/10/28/how-to-make-a-stiffened-fabric-flower-brooch/

http://www.craftleftovers.com/blog/archives/1499

http://tipnut.com/fabric-flowers/

http://news.holidash.com//2010/04/23/mothers-day-corsage/

http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/fabric-flower-bobby-pin-hairpieces?backto=true&backtourl=/photogallery/paper-and-fabric-flowers#slide_26

http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/photogallery/paper-and-fabric-flowers#slide_27

http://createanddelegate.blogspot.com/2011/04/tutorial-fabric-lotus-flower.html

http://matsutakeblog.blogspot.com/2010/01/waiting.html

http://gedane.over-blog.com/pages/rose-2667048.html

http://nostalgicneedleart.blogspot.com/2007/08/rick-rack-roses.html

http://www.notmartha.org/archives/2010/05/06/mothers-day-felt-dahlia-corsage-a-few-notes/

http://tipnut.com/ribbon-flowers/

http://www.lollychops.com/lollychops/2010/03/wall-flowers-week-too-much-teal-tuesday.html

http://mysparkle.blogspot.com/2010/02/how-to-rolled-flowers.html

http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2009/08/how-to-make-pretty-organza-flowers.html

http://littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2010/09/fabric-rosette-tutorial-extravaganza.html

http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2010/12/felt-flowers-perfect-for-topping-gifts.html

http://www.thehouseofsmiths.com/2010/09/fabric-flower-tutorial.html

http://littlemissmomma.blogspot.com/2010/08/scrunch-fabric-flower-pom-pom.html

http://andiejohnsonsews.blogspot.com/2011/04/ruched-fabric-flower-tutorial.html

http://nheilke.com/blog/?p=1602

http://simplesisterblog.blogspot.com/2011/02/flowers-made-from-tights.html

http://www.simplyvintagegirl.com/blog/index.php/2010/05/29/tutorial-how-to-make-lovely-fabric-flowers/

http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/2010/11/1-leather-or-felt-flower-gift-idea-with.htm

http://www.creativejewishmom.com/2010/10/how-to-make-felt-flowers-for-a-mixed-bouquet-tutorial.html

Pioneer Bonnets (and a Paper Pilgrim Bonnet)

2011-04-18T11:46:00.001-07:00

I've been helping some young women in my area make some pioneer clothing ... I was looking for FREE Pionneer Bonnet sewing patterns and figured I would share the links ...

Buns and Baskets

Given Moments

and I found this super simple Pilgrim Bonnet made from paper ... easy: paper and staples!

Fashion Design Croquis, Templates

2011-04-13T09:05:00.001-07:00

I just found the BEST site for free design croquis. Lots of different body types, including children, babies, boys, men and of course women. Check out Designer Nexus for a variety of croquis. You're welcome! (I'm bummed ... I just bought some croqui templates!!)

Croquis are templates used for fashion design and fashion illustration. (They also have a whole section of just flats!!) Love this website.

Fabric Covered Letters

2011-03-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

How cute are these? She made them for her kid's door, but I think you could whip up some for holidays, "Noel" "Love" "Thanks" "boo"... you get the picture. Check out the complete tutorial at mmmCrafts.

Stuffed Monkey

2011-03-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

How cute is this softie?! Check out Sew, What's New? for the pattern, original Molly Monkey pattern can be found at Mmm, Crafts.

DIY Bias Tape

2011-03-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

Turn your own strips of fabric into double-fold bias tape. All you need is an ironing board, a hot iron, a measuring tape or ruler and a long needle. Check out the complete tutoral at Creative Little Daisy. or more on using bias tape at Pickup Some Creativity.

GREAT post on continuous bias, and how much yardage for your desired length and width.

Spin Around Dress

2011-03-25T17:17:00.000-07:00

FREE dress pattern available in a 2T. Check out the complete pattern and tutorial at Making it Little by Little. She also has the complete pattern and tutorial to ADD SLEEVES for wovens and knits!

Solar Dress with Free pattern

2011-03-24T16:48:00.000-07:00

Classic a-line shape, with elastic back and adjustable straps. Check out the complete tutorial and pattern at IndieTutes.

Tiered Skirt, aka the Twirl Skirt

2011-03-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

SO much easier than it looks. Check out the complete tutorial at IndieTutes.

Cloth Diapers and Training Pants - links & patterns

2011-03-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

DittoDaddy 1 -- underwear/trainers, not waterproof (12m - 4T -- knit fabric & foe)

Ditto Daddy 2 -- S, M, L -- underwear/trainers, not waterproof

Katrina's Sew Quick Soaker Pattern - (fleece/wool ... nb - XXXL)

DIYEC -- newborn -XL (wool/fleece training pants)

DIYEC - waterproof training pants (sm - XXL)

DIYEC - non-waterproof trainers (sm - XXL)

DIYEC - 3 seam split crotch pants (sm - XL)

DIYEC - easy up/down pants (sm - XL)

DIYEC - shirt bib (covers chest AND sleeves)

DIYEC - wet bags

Easter Bunz -- training pants (2t/3t side snaps & foe)

free diaper and training patterns

WAHM Mall -- free diapers and trainers patterns

Zany Zebra Designs

This Mom Sews, PartTimeEC -- training pants links

Very Baby -- lots of tutorials

Cheeky Diapers

Diaper Jungle

CelticCloths

Patterns for Purchase

LadderHillDesigns

PottyDancePants

YCMT - That Darn Cat (2, 4, 6, 8)

Sweet Pea Pilot Cap

2011-03-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

Pattern is sized for 0-24months. Check out the complete tutorial and downloadable pattern at Sew Liberated.

The Fishing Hole

2011-03-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

How cute is this game?! Check out the complete tutorial at Leafy Treetop Spot.

Engineer Cap

2011-03-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

Available in 2 sizes, medium (18-20") and large (21-23"). Check out the complete tutorial at Aesthetic Nest.

City Cowl

2011-03-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Easy cowl. Check out the complete tutorial at Aesthetic Nest.

Crochet: Best Little Girl Cloche (and baby)

2011-03-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

This actually makes me want to learn to crochet. Check out the complete tutorial and pattern at Aesthetic Nest, also available in baby size.

Crochet: Picot and Lace Baby Cloche

2011-03-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

This actually makes me want to learn to crochet. Check out the complete tutorial and pattern at Aesthetic Nest.

Heirloom Cut Chenille Baby Blanket

2011-03-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

Beautiful. Checkout the complete tutorial at Aesthetic Nest.

Square Satin Luxe Blanket

2011-03-14T21:19:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than a minky and satin blanket? Check out the complete tutorial at Aesthetic Nest, this one is ruffle free making it perfect for boys! She also has another tutorial with ruffles for those sweet girls.

Mix, Match and Modify

2011-03-13T21:14:00.000-07:00

How to modify pants patterns using tabs, tucks, and shirring. Check out the complete tutorial at Piccoli Piselli.

Knit Cuff Pattern and Tutorial

2011-03-12T21:12:00.000-08:00

How to sew a knit cuff ... Check out the complete tutorial at Piccoli Piselli.

The Pea Pod, Hip Carrier

2011-03-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

Baby carrier designed to be worn on the hip. Check out the complete tutorial and downloadable pattern at Sew Mama, Sew.

Handy Harness

2011-03-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Handy Harness, useful for shopping carts, restaurant high chairs or regular chairs, or even as a leash. Check out the complete tutorial with downloadable pattern at Piccoli Piselli.

Snow Pixie Hat

2011-03-09T20:47:00.000-08:00

This hat is quick to whip up. Check out the complete tutorial at Sew Liberated.

Bleach Stencil Reverse Applique

2011-03-08T20:40:00.000-08:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Piccoli Piselli.

Kid Pants, Lined Kid Pants

2011-03-07T17:32:00.000-08:00

Lined Kids Pants, with a downloadable pattern for a size 2-3T. Check out the complete tutorial at MADE.

Kid Pants, Flat Front Pants

2011-03-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Flat Front Pants, with a downloadable pattern for a size 2-3T. Check out the complete tutorial at MADE.

Kid Pants, the Basic Pants

2011-03-05T17:24:00.000-08:00

Basic Pants, with a downloadable pattern for a size 2-3T. Check out the complete tutorial at MADE.

2 Tiered Skirt

2011-03-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

How cute is this? Complete tutorial at MADE.

Little Kid Coats

2011-03-03T17:45:00.000-08:00

3 different styles are shown, and she gives you pictures on how to draft the pattern. Check out the complete tutorial at Liliash.

Billiard Tee

2011-03-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

How cute is this ... there is never enough sewing projects for boys -- it always seems like they are geared to girls! Check out the complete tutorial at Made by Rae.

Felt Egg Design Book

2011-03-01T17:37:00.000-08:00

A different twist on the traditional "Quiet Book" ... so much more creative. I LOVE it. Check out the complete tutorial at Chez Beeper Babe.

Knit Ruffle Pants

2010-11-24T17:27:00.000-08:00

How cute are these? Check out the complete tutorial at 60 piggies, no pattern included ... she gives vague measurements for a 4t.

Kindle Nook EReader Covers

2010-11-17T11:25:00.000-08:00

soooooo my sister is getting a Kindle for Christmas which made me start looking for tutorials on making covers ... why not share my research?

http://www.onepearlbutton.com/2009/10/tutorial-book-style-kindle-cover.html

http://www.chicaandjo.com/2009/09/03/make-a-custom-kindle-cover-case/

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62096806/padded-nook-new-generation-kindle?ref=v1_other_2

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_query=pdf+sewing+pattern+kindle&search_type=handmade&shopname=BirdifulStitches

https://www.youcanmakethis.com/info/featured-products/sew-spoiled-ipad-folding-case.htm

(not for a kindle, but you could adjust the measurements)

http://www.mobileread.com/forums/showthread.php?t=95009

Pattern Draftings

2010-11-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

Lier at ikatbag and jen at mymeasureingtape did a whole series on drafting patterns, geared especially towards children's wear. Check out the WHOLE SERIES!!

Resources on Hairbows and Headbands

2010-11-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

After I had my first daughter I started scouring the internet for instructions on how to make hair bows. I bought some instructions as well ... but here are my favorite free resources ...

http://makebowsandmore.blogspot.com/

http://www.hair-hardware.com/pinwheelbowtemplate.html

(scroll all the way down for more free tutorials)

http://poshnpretty.com/ (GREAT PRICES ON SUPPLIES!)

http://www.hipgirlclips.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=31

http://www.girlythingsbows.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYm3z6xWY8I

http://www.scribd.com/doc/3287604/Make-Boutique-Bows

http://tutusbowsandmore.com/pages/boutiquebowinstructs.htm

http://www.scribd.com/doc/3276459/Ribbon-Woven-Headband-Instructions

http://nylonheadbands.blogspot.com/

http://toggleheadbands.blogspot.com/

http://toggleheadbands.blogspot.com/2009/03/no-slip-grip-for-headbands.html

Dyeing

2010-09-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

I LOVE dyeing fabric ... here are some tutorials to give you some inspiration and get you started.

Spray Dyeing

Sprinkle Dyeing

Dip-Dyeing/OmbreDyeing

(Gradient Tights, more Gradient Dip-Dyed Tights, more Gradient Dyeing, Ombre on Martha Stewart)

Fiber Reactive Dyes use like acid dyes -- use for proteins (wool & silk, and some nylons) ...

Garbage Bag Dyeing, Immersion Dyeing, Silk in a Microwave

Tiny Tights to Knee High Socks

2010-09-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Can you say "CUTE" ?!?! Love them ... Check out the complete tutorial at Ruffles and Stuff.

DIY Rolling Rack

2010-09-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

I want one ... but in pink, what do you think?! Check out Hrrrthrrr for the complete tutorial.

Lovely Fabric Flower

2010-09-09T06:12:00.000-07:00

We've all seen the singe-ed fabric flowers, but this one looks more complicated. LOVE LOVE LOVE it. I love how realistic is looks compared to other fabric flowers. Check out Simply Vintage Girl for the complete tutorial.

Sailing on the Lake Blouse (Tutorial and Pattern)

2010-09-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

Easy breezy ... I have some charmeuse that is just screaming to be made into this top!! Love it! Check out the complete tutorial and printable pattern at Sewing Princess.

...

P.S. did you see the link of the previous entry?! links to videos on how to draft patterns in illustrator ... LOVE!! i can't wait to start doing mine that way!

Nap Mat / Bed Roll

2010-09-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me?! This is adorable. Check out the complete tutorial at Prudent Baby.

Interfacing

2010-09-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

Some really great tips, geared towards making handbags, but applies to interfacing in general. Check out You Sew, Girl! for the complete tutorial.

Gathered Scarf using Elastic Thread

2010-09-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

Check out Craft for the complete tutorial.

Swaddle Blanket with Self Binding

2010-09-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

It looks more complicated that it really is. Check out Tea Rose Home for the complete tutorial.

How make a Braided Ribbon Headband

2010-09-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Skip to My Lou.

Magnetic Bookmark

2010-09-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

How to, with free printable pdf designs, check out Wild Olive. She mentions a specific magnetic tape, but office supply stores sell thin printable magnetic paper that you could cut to size and use instead ... just an idea. (BTW ... i make my own magnetic bookmarks ... my kids have a tendency to throw my books around and regular ones slip right out waaaaaay too often!!)

Paperbag book Cover

2010-09-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

How to make a paperbag book cover, check out the complete tutorial at About.com ... I just cant stop thinking about if you could make something similar with fabric ... hmmmmm.

Baby Jean Skirt Tutorial

2010-09-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Check out Handmade by Jill for the complete tutorial.

Alphabet Flashcards

2010-09-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Free printable flashcards for you. Check out Handmade by Jill.

How to Make Printables Using Picnik

2010-09-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

Step by Step guide to making printables using Picnik.com ... these would be great for iron-on transfers as well ... checkout Homemade by Jill for complete tutorial.

Or just use it to create templates to make freezer paper stencils ... AWESOME!!

Photography Tips

2010-09-03T06:25:00.000-07:00

Easy steps to edit your photos to make them perfect using the free program picnik.com ... check out I am Momma hear me Roar for the complete tutorials, including videos!!

Part 1, talks about taking good pictures

Part 3, using picnik to make headers, etc

Part 4, lots of tips and ideas!!

Ruffle Butt Onesie

2010-09-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

Easy peasy ... plus super super cute!! Check out the complete tutorial at UCreate, with 3 different techniques!!

Kitchen Aid Mixer Cover

2010-09-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

This looks so much prettier on your counter ... Check out Handmade by Jill for the complete tutorial.

Magic Tie Trick

2010-09-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

Here's a trick to keep your man's tie from flying around. Check out I am Momma hear me Roar for the complete tutorial.

How to Make a Pillowcase

2010-09-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

So simple to make. It's fun to make them to match quilts or even different cases for different holidays. Check out the complete tutoiral at Vanilla Joy.

...

or check out this one at MADE.

Ribbon Labels

2010-08-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

Cheaper alternative to purchasing large amounts of woven labels, make them at home!! Check out Silly Gilly for the complete tutorial.

Sponge Balls

2010-08-10T06:35:00.000-07:00

Better than water balloons ... you never have to fiddle with trying to fill them up ... or pick up the tiny broken rubber pieces, plus you'll never run out. Check out the complete tutorial at Betz White.

Super Foam-erator

2010-08-10T04:32:00.000-07:00

Here is an excellent easy craft to keep your kids busy during the summer. Check out the complete tutorial at Betz White.

Beginning Quilting - Basics

2010-08-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Preparing and Cutting - including how to use a rotary cutter
Quarter Inch Seam and Pressing Techniques

Matching Seams and Quick Piecing Techniques - strip piecing, chain piecing

Maintaining Your Momentum
All About Fabric - Building a stash, chooseing fabrics, storing fabrics

Batting Guide

Binding and Quilting Resource Links

Scrap Management

Binding Tutorial -crosswise binding (not bias)

Grid Quilting Tutorial

Free Motion Quilting - video ... and I've heard a tip to turn your machine at a 45 degree angle to free your mind from straigh lines ... just a thought.

How to Calculate Quilt Measurements

How to Baste Quilts

Quilt Labeling

How to Make Your Own Spray Starch
why would you want to use spray starch?! i was wondering the same thing ... p.s. the lavender is in the recipe is an antiseptic and acts as a preservative (plus it smells super great while you are pressing). and p.s. starching clothing makes them last longer as the perspiration and dirt sticks to the starch instead of the fibers.
here are some tips on using starch and quilting ...
Generation Quilt Patterns
Tips Page 1 and Tips Page 2

Beginning Sewing Basics

2010-08-09T06:05:00.000-07:00

Patterns Demystified!

Tips for Working With Patterns

How to Take Measurements

How to Alter Pants Patterns

Modifying Pants Patterns for Babies and Kids

Interfacing Guide

How to Set in a Sleeve -- alothough personally I don't sew the side seams and the underarm seams first ... I set the sleeve, then sew the underarm and side seam in one long seam!

Buttonholes - basic and corded

Centered Zipper - using GLUE .... what an interesting idea!

Sewing on Oilcloth (and Vinyl)

How to Spring Clean your Sewing Machine

Spring Clean Your Sewing Room -- which is full of tips and organization ideas

Favorite Sewing Tips, Part One, Two and Three.

How to Make Your Own Spray Starch
why would you want to use spray starch?! i was wondering the same thing ... p.s. the lavender is in the recipe is an antiseptic and acts as a preservative (plus it smells super great while you are pressing). and p.s. starching clothing makes them last longer as the perspiration and dirt sticks to the starch instead of the fibers.
here are some tips on using starch and quilting ... but the same priciples apply to sewing ...
Use spray starch to stabilize slinky fabrics as you cut and sew. Most of the starch will be removed as you handle and sew the fabric, the remainder can be washed out before you wear the garment.
Generation Quilt Patterns
Tips Page 1 and Tips Page 2

Baby Sunsuit

2010-08-08T15:26:00.000-07:00

Instructions, and measurements for a 6-12 month old. Check out the complete tutorial at Made-By-Rae.

Fabric Folding

2010-08-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

Fabric folding method that is awesome and will keep your organized. Check out the complete tutorial at Happy Zombie.

Sewing Machine Needles

2010-08-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

Sew, Mama, Sew explains the difference between different needles and what needle you should use for your project. Or Threads has a great explanation of needles.

Simple Machine Applique

2010-08-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

Sew, Mama, Sew has a great how to. Covering supplies and materials, machine settings and more. After you've covered the basics they have another post about layering and more complex designs. With PDF templates.

Techniques: Seam Finishes

2010-08-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

Sew, Mama, Sew shows us how to do seam finishes with your sewing machine (no special machine needed for these) ... including: straight stitch, zig zag edge, clean finish, french seam, mock french seam (used on curves), flat fell, bound seam, double-fold bias tape, pinking, stitch and pink, or overlock on your serger.

Continuous Piping

2010-08-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Southern Matriarch.

Presser Feet

2010-08-05T05:19:00.000-07:00

Information on Essential Presser Feet. Check out My Measuring Tape and ikatbag, or Sew, Mama, Sew which is loaded with information.

Make Your Own Ham (or Seam Roll)

2010-08-05T05:15:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at My Measuring Tape. Generally they are made with one side flannel and one side canvas (or twill).

How to Mark Points From Patterns

2010-08-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

How to transfer important points on the pattern to your fabric. Check out the complete tutorial at ikatbag. Instead of using a marker, pencil or chalk on the mark, I generally just stick a pin in that spot ... that's the lazy method.

Applying Picot Elastic

2010-08-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

How to apply picot edge elastic. The example shows underwear, but I LOVE it for necklines and super simple elastic waists on skirts. Check out Stitches and Seams for complete tutorial. Do the topstitching with a double needle for a mock-coverstitch (shown in the above picture).

Sewing Tip: Trash Bowl

2010-08-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

The Cozy Apartment shares the idea of using Rachel Ray's trash bowl idea in the sewing room. I totally do this too, so I figured I should share. I bought a cheap slender trash bin at the dollar store. I used to keep those loose threads on the end of the sewing table and inevitably they would get all over EVERYTHING. Now when I'm sewing I throw loose threads, serger chains, and small fabric scraps in the bowl. When I'm done (or when it gets full) the whole thing gets dumped into the trash can.

How to Estimate Yardage

2010-08-03T05:53:00.000-07:00

This takes some of the guesswork out of the age old question, "How much fabric should I purchase?!" Check out the complete tutorial at ikatbag.

Faux Cami or Modesty Panel

2010-08-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

How to add a faux camisole or modesty panel into a too low neckline. Check out the complete tutorial at Stitches and Seams.

Little Girl Leggings

2010-08-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Check out Sparkle Power for the complete tutorial.

Super Easy Removable Pillow Cover

2010-08-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

Super easy and they make washing a breeze. Or simply make a new cover when you're ready for a new look. Check out the complete tutorial at Sparkle Power.

Ruffle Sleeve Top

2010-08-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

Easy ruffle sleeve top, starting with rectangles and elastic! Check out the complete tutorial at Sparkle Power.

Don't Eat Pete - Downloadable Game

2010-07-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

Download your board and instructions at Sparkle Power. I can't wait to try it tomorrow with the kids (we'll be using cheerios ... we don't need more sugar in this house!)

Homemade Bubbles

2010-07-31T10:20:00.000-07:00

Summer should be filled with bubbles. Making your own is definately cheaper. No more worries about the kids spilling and dumping it. Check out the complete tutorial/recipe at Sparkle Power.

It's the glycerin which really makes the difference!!

Jeans Fly - Zipper

2010-07-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

How to sew a jeans zipper fly. Check out the complete tutorial at Stitches and Seams.

Perfect Curved Patch Pocket

2010-07-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

Easy method for PERFECT curves. Check out the complete tutorial at Stitches and Seams.

Divide Serger Thread

2010-07-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Save yourself some money by only buying ONE spool of serger thread, especially when it's a weird color that you won't use often. Check out the complete tutorial at My Measuring Tape. Be sure to read the comments, there are some other ideas there as well.

Resource: Where to buy knit and other fabrics

2010-07-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

Sew Liberated has some great some great links ... and some that are really expensive. Be sure to read the comments as there as some great resources there as well.

Made by Rae shares her sources in her tutorial for making baby tights.

MADE tells us where to get some in downtown LA, with some online links at the end.

**My** favorites are Spandex World and Fabric.com.

jersey, interlock, etc ....

Tips for Sewing with Knits

2010-07-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

For some reason knits are scary to most home sewers. You don't need a serger, here are some of my favorite tips and techniques for sewing with knits on your regular sewing machine.

Sew, Mama, Sew has some tips, plus how to do a mock-coverstitch.

Sew, Mama, Sew has even more tips on embellishing and appliques using knits ... including adding woven ruffles to knits fabric. Just remember to remove your gathering stitches after sewing on with a zig-zag or it wont stretch!!

MADE has some tips on her tutorial for the 90-Minute shirt, inlcuding binding with rib knits.

Fishsticks and Fries has tips including hemming.

Hemming Techniques for knits ... VIDEOS!!!

Including: Coverstitch, Rolled-Hem, Lettuce Edge, Faux-Coverstitch, ZigZag

Sew, Mama, Sew has an all about sergers, (that serger is a GREAT beginning serger and reasonably priced!)

Threads primer on sewing knits.

My favorite book, Sew U: Home Stretch by Wendy Mullin. She discusses sewing with a traditional sewing machine as well as a serger and even touches on coverstitch machines (lightly).

Some recommend using spray starch to help stabilize knits while sewing ... I've never tried it since I use my serger and not my sewing machine ... but here is a recipe on how to make your own spray starch (scroll to the bottom).

Coverstitch Tutorials

2010-07-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

Coverstitch machines make 2 (or 3) lines of parallel stitches on the top and the underside looks like serger loops. You can find anything you ever wanted to know about coverstitch machines, tutorials and attachments on Stitches and Seams.

Here are *some* of the things they are used for: hemming, binding, necklines, beltloops

I have the Brother 2340, purchased from allbrands.com. LOVE it.

Sewing Tool - Bamboo Skewer

2010-07-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Southern Matriarch.

Play Kitchen

2010-06-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

I never would have guessed that this play kitchen lived it's first life as an entertainment center. Check out the complete tutorial at Sutton Grace ... or here is a smaller one from a nightstand at Homemade by Jill.

Scrap Fabric Bracelets

2010-06-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Blue Cricket Designs.

Refashion a tshirt to a girl's shirt

2010-06-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

Check out the complete tutorial at Sutton Grace.

Sewing in Zippers

2010-06-11T16:11:00.000-07:00

Sooner or later you're going to have to get over your fear of zippers. Check out the complete tutorial at Threads, it includes instructions for a centered zipper, a lapped zipper and an invisible zipper. Or check out this video for an easy flat front fly-zipper.

Pillowcase Dress

2010-06-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

Easy Easy Easy dress for your little one. Check out the complete tutorial at Freshly Picked, and revisited HERE ... even better instructions!

...

here are some more for ya ...

FlashBang Fibers

Jen Leheny

Prudent Baby

Everything Sewing with pattern

...

or here is a FREE pattern from Oliver + S ... similar, but no gathers!!

How to Sew a Catch Stitch

2010-06-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

This hand stitching technique keeps layers of fabric flat against each other, and is great for hemming. Check out the complete tutorial at Threads.

How to Sew a Slipstitch

2010-06-10T15:56:00.000-07:00

An excellent hand stitching technique that hides the threads in the folds. Check out the complete tutorial at Threads.

How to Sew a Fell Stitch

2010-06-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

This hand sewing technique is also called an applique stitch, and is good for attaching one layer of fabric to another, it's a quick, strong and flexible. Check out the complete tutorial at Threads.

Onesie Dress

2010-06-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

Turn any plain onesie into the cutest dress. Check out the complete tutorial at Barefoot in the Kitchen, with alternative tips HERE.