The running stitch is a straight stitch that can be worked in both straight and curved lines. Believe it or not, it can be both practical and decorative. It's one of the basic hand-sewing stitches you want in your sewing skills toolkit. Gathering, tucking, mending, and fine sewing are some of ... [ Read More ]
How to Close Openings with the Ladder Stitch
Are you sewing a pillow, scrunchie, or another project that needs to be turned right side out? You're almost done with your project and want to close the opening with a stitch that can't be seen. This is the perfect time to use the ladder stitch. The ladder stitch is an invisible hand stitch ... [ Read More ]
3 Ways to Tie a Knot in Thread
Some sewing projects require hand sewing in addition to machine sewing. When you hand sew, the thread needs to be anchored in the fabric so your stitches are secure. There are several ways to tie a knot in thread for hand sewing, but I have 3 ways that I use frequently. Two are knots but the ... [ Read More ]
How to Fix a Rip in Pants
Do you have a favorite pair of pants that were ripped accidentally or are worn in a particular spot because you wear them so much? Good news! You don't have to throw the garment away or hide it in the back of your closet. (Because you love them and just can't let them go!) There is a way to ... [ Read More ]
Essential Guide for Straight Sewing Pins
Do you want to make your sewing time more efficient and productive? Using the right kind of sewing pin for the fabric and/or project AND how you manage those pins in your sewing space are two ways to increase efficiency and productivity with your sewing. Why Use Pins Chances are whether ... [ Read More ]
How to Make Pattern Weights
When researching straight sewing pins, I came across other options for holding fabric and pattern pieces in place which included clips and sewing weights. I've been using clips to hold fabric pieces together on some projects, but my only experience with pattern weights was what I saw on the tv ... [ Read More ]
Sew a Round Pillow Cover with Fringe Trim
When making a list of gift ideas for Christmas, I wasn't sure what to get my sister. I'd already decided to make all my nieces and nephews pillowcases and was on the hunt for fabric. As I searched Spoonflower, I came across this fun fabric: It was perfect for my sister. She and my niece have ... [ Read More ]
How to Sew a Square Pillow Cover with Pom Pom Trim
When you think of pillows, what comes to mind? Is it the comfortable pillow you snuggle up with at night, the decorative pillow(s) plumped up and resting in the corner of your sofa, or a throw pillow you use to cushion your back or bottom on a hard chair? Regardless of the pictures floating ... [ Read More ]
How to Sew a Drawstring Bag
Whether you need to keep items from rolling around in your purse, or you want a unique gift bag that could be reused, sewing a drawstring bag could be the solution you've been looking for! Recently, I made drawstring bags as part of my husband's Christmas gifts this year as well as the gift bag ... [ Read More ]
Easy-to-Sew Handmade Gifts for Most Ages and Occasions
Do you remember a time when you unwrapped a gift and a warm fuzzy feeling spread through your heart and filled you with joy? Have you ever opened up a gift that was perfect AND handmade by a friend or family member? I bet that warm fuzzy feeling spread throughout your entire body and maybe ... [ Read More ]