Tag Archives: Basics

Meet Gladys

Monday’s Mish-Mash: Meet Gladys Life is change, or so the saying goes. Sometimes we’re resistant to change because we’re stubborn, or because we’re set in our ways and are afraid something new will upset the balance of things. But every … 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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Directional Stitching

Tuesday’s Tips & Tricks: Directional Stitching There are lots of tricks you can use in making a high-quality garment. Surprisingly, many of these aren’t mentioned in pattern directions or taught in sewing classes—or if they are, their importance is glossed … 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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Accommodating Bulk When Layering

Tuesday’s Tips & Tricks: Accommodating Bulk When Layering Accommodating bulk is something everyone knows about in theory, but you might not give it due consideration when sewing. I recently made a Victorian evening suit for a 16” fashion doll: trousers, … 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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Boning Alternatives

Tuesday’s Tips & Tricks: Boning Alternatives Boning is a notion that can be used for many purposes. Corsets and bustiers come to mind first, but strapless bodices are often made with supportive boning, as well. If you’re making a garment … Continue reading

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Reducing Bulk

Tuesday’s Tips & Tricks: Reducing Bulk When you sew, it’s important to reduce bulk wherever possible. Doing so will make your corners crisp and sharp; it will enable your curves to lie flat, without wrinkling or bulging; it will give … Continue reading

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Basic Hand Sewing

Almost every sewing project requires some hand sewing, whether it’s stitching a hem, attaching snaps or hooks & eyes, or finishing raw seam allowances. In this new tutorial, you’ll learn everything you need to get started. Includes an illustrated glossary … Continue reading

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