Category Archives: News

News & Updates

Kindle Cover

I couldn’t find a new case for my Kindle Fire HD, so I decided to sew a custom slipcover to fit over the old case. My idea worked better than I’d hoped! Follow along in this diary as I design … Continue reading

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Basics: Threading Your Sewing Machine

Here is an all-new “basics” tutorial. Learn how to thread your sewing machine, use an auto-threader for your needle, and how to wind and load a bobbin. Basics: Threading Your Sewing Machine Enjoy!

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New Wrist Pincushion

You may have read my tutorial for a quick and easy wrist pincushion. This one is even better! It features a rectangular pincushion and a wrist strap that fastens with Velcro. Follow along as I sew this pincushion, or make … Continue reading

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Update: Doll Portfolio

I just updated my portfolio, so you can see most of the doll clothes I’ve designed and sewn over the last year. I changed the format a little, so there’s better descriptions of each outfit. I added a list of … Continue reading

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Gene’s Empire Ballgown

Follow along as I create an empire-waisted ballgown for Gene Marshall, a 15.5″ fashion doll. The original design includes a matching petticoat and shawl. Gene’s Empire Ballgown: A Sewing Diary Enjoy!

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The Phantom of the Opera in Miniature: Hannibal Ballet Costume

This new sewing diary chronicles the making of the Hannibal Ballet Costume, one in a series of doll-sized costumes inspired by Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, The Phantom of the Opera. Sewing Diary—The Phantom of the Opera in Miniature: Hannibal Ballet … Continue reading

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Digital Color: Adding Color to Your Croquis

In Croquis: Fashion Sketches, Part I and Part II, you learned how to draw fashion sketches. But suppose you want to color your croquis? In this new two-part article, you’ll find detailed instructions on how to scan and clean up … Continue reading

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Crazy Quilt Pincushions

The author of the blog Ivory Blush Roses teaches how to make gorgeous pincushions using miniature crazy quilts. But first, you need to know how to make a crazy quilt. In the first half of this two-part article, you’ll learn … Continue reading

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Pre-Washing Fabric & Trims

Why is it necessary to wash your fabrics before starting a new project? In this new tutorial, you’ll learn three reasons why you should always pre-wash your fabric and trims. You’ll also learn tips and tricks for hand-washing fabrics, pressing … Continue reading

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Hand-Dyed Lace

Have you ever wanted lace that matches your project? In this two-part tutorial, you’ll learn the secrets to successfully dyeing Venetian lace and lace appliques. Create watercolor ombré effects, make your lace look antique, or hand-dye appliques for pieces that … Continue reading

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