Drawstring BackpacksI made these for a charity who gives backpacks filled with various items to cancer patients who are children.
Handmade Men's TieThis was my first attempt at making a man's tie. I made it out of fabric that matched my daughter's homemade Easter skirt. Her boyfriend wore this tie for Easter to go with her skirt. Turned out great!
Origami BagThe design of this bag was inspired by origami. The bag has the shape of a regular hexagon. I decided not to overload the design of this bag with unnecessary décor, since the flower formed from the folds of fabric is a sufficient decoration for it. You can change the look of this bag and use it as a purse or a shoulder bag or wristlet or pouch or minaudière.
Threading Elastic Through Casing?What is the best/fastest way to thread elastic through casing?
Reversible Japanese Knot BagUse old jeans of different colors to sew this original Japanese bag. This bag is made of two different fabrics and is reversible. You will get two different looks in one bag.
Fabric Keyboard CoverI needed a custom-made keyboard cover to protect this keyboard I inherited from my father who passed away in 1998.
Converting SheetsIf you have sheets that are the wrong size, sometimes you can modify them to fit. This works best if you are going from larger to smaller.
How to Sew Metallic Mesh?Metallic mesh fabric presents a unique issue when deciding how to make sewn items with it. This page offers some very helpful tips for working with metallic mesh fabric.
Turning a Crew Neck Shirt into a V-NeckUsing some basic sewing skills you can turn a crew neck t-shirt into a v-neck one. By using the original neckline, the finished product looks as though you bought it that way.
Lining a Handmade PurseLining is a handmade purse gives a more finished look and helps it last longer. Here are some great instructions for adding a simple lining.
Turning Fabric Tubes Right Side OutFabric tubes are used in a lot of sewing and craft projects. The initial steps are pretty easy, the frustration comes when it is time to turn the tube right side out. There are sewing tools made especially for this purpose or you can use things you may already have. This page contains some solutions to this common step.
How to Sew VelcroThis is a page about sewing velcro. Sewing velcro can be tricky. It can clog up your sewing machine and even break your needles. Here are some tips to try, if you are having trouble sewing velcro onto an item.
How to Make Elastic Tops for Sundresses?Many sundresses particularly children's have an elasticized top that can be purchased at the fabric store. However, it is possible to make a similar version at home. This is a page about how to make elastic tops for sundresses.
Sewing Fleece on a Sewing Machine?If you have difficulties sewing fleece fabric on your machine, there are a few things you can try to make it easier. This is a page about sewing fleece on a sewing machine.
What Are Curved Precision Needles Used For?This is a page about curved precision needles. There are a variety of different types of sewing needles for different purposes.
Hemming Jeans with Thick SeamsThis is a page about hemming jeans with thick seams. Sewing several layers of denim can be a challenge when shortening jeans. The right equipment and a few tips can make it easier.
Fixing Pants that are Too BigThis is a page about fixing pants that are too big. If your pants are too large, you can size them down yourself.
Using a Bias Tape Maker?I would like to know how to use a bias tape maker.
Making a Bed Skirt for a King Sized BedThis is a page about making a bed skirt for a king sized bed. When you just can't find just the right bedskirt for your bed an option is to make one yourself.
Making a Bed Skirt for a Twin Size Bed?This is a page about making a bed skirt for a twin size bed. It is actually fairly easy to make your own bedskirts.
Making a Queen Size Bed Skirt?This is a page about making a queen size bed skirt. Making a bed shirt is an option to buying one that is either expensive or does not coordinate with your bed linens.
Using Wonder-Under Fusible Web?This is a page about using Wonder-Under. Wonder-Under is used to stabilize fabric and adhere fabric together. It is important to know how to use it, to achieve the desired results.
Making a Slipcover?This is a page about making a slipcover. To give a piece of furniture an extended life or to cover chairs for a special event, you may want to make some slip covers.
Homemade Sleeping MaskThis is a page about homemade sleeping mask. When you need to sleep during the daytime, wearing a comfortable mask can help block the light.
Smocking Tips and Tricks?This is a page about smocking tips and tricks. Smocking is a good way to add a decorative touch to your next clothing project.
Making Sewing Cards for ChildrenThis is a page about making sewing cards for children. You can punch all kinds of cards for a fun way youngsters can learn how to use a needle with yarn or ribbon.
Threading a Serger?This is a page about threading a serger. This tool is very helpful for finishing fabric edges so they won't fray, but can be a challenge to thread.
Making a Tape Measure Flower PinA tape measure flower pin is the perfect gift for a friend that loves to sew or quilt. This is a page about making a tape measure flower pin.
Replacement Cuffs for a Jacket or SweaterThis is a page about replacement cuffs for a jacket or sweater. A well loved piece of clothing can get an update to extend the life of the garment.
Sewing Without a Pattern?This is a page about sewing without a pattern. Many simple clothing items can be made without using a pattern.
Threading a Sewing MachineThe first step to using a sewing machine is threading the needle. Each machine is slightly different and it is often a good idea to check the user's manual for specific instructions for your model.
Making a Casserole Carrier?This page is about making a casserole carrier. When traveling to a family gathering or potluck, it is nice to have an insulated transporter to keep your food hot.
Sewing Real Fur and Leather?This page is about sewing real fur and leather. Sewing animal skins can be a challenge and often need to be hand stitched.
Making a Blouse Fit Better?This is a page about making a blouse fit better. Whether your blouse doesn't fit as well as it used to or you have something new that needs altering, there are many easy ways to fix up a blouse and make it fit better.
Making a Sugar Glider Bag?This is a page about making a sugar glider bag. Keep your little pet safe and warm in a cozy travel pouch.
Sewing VinylThis page is about sewing vinyl. A special needle and setting may be needed on your machine to sew this type of fabric.
Sewing Tough or Heavyweight Fabrics?This page is about sewing tough or heavyweight fabrics. When stitching heavier fabric, you may have to make a number of sewing machine adjustments or even sew it by hand.
Making Blanket Stitched Corners?This is a page about making blanket stitched corners. Working a blanket stitch is a good way to attach two pieces of fabric. There are a couple of ways to make this stitch when turning the corner.
Sewing SleevesThis page is about sewing sleeves. A very challenging part of making clothing is attaching the sleeves.
Making a Petticoat?This page is about making a petticoat. A lot of material can be needed to get the desired fullness you want under your skirt.
Making Reusable Coffee Cup SleevesThis page is about making reusable coffee cup sleeves. Make a reusable paper cup heat shield for your favorite on the go coffee drinkers.
Making an Adult BibThis page is about making an adult bid. People of all sizes need a bib at one time or another to keep their clothes from being soiled.
Making a Fleece ScarfThis page is about making a fleece scarf. A inexpensive, cozy wrap can be made with this material.
Making a Jacket from Towels?This page is about making a jacket from towels. A jacket made from terry cloth can be handy after swimming or bathing.
Teaching a Child to SewThis is a page about teaching a child to sew. Teaching a child to sew is a very rewarding experience and provides them with a skill they can use for their lifetime.
Making a BedskirtThis is a page about making a bedskirt. Getting the correct measurement for the elastic is an important step in making your own bedskirt.
Making a Picture PillowThis page is about making a picture pillow. Pictures printed on cloth can make a special pillow.
Homemade Reusable Shopping BagsThis page is about homemade reusable shopping bags. Shopping bags you can use over and over can be fashioned at home.
Making Ruffles on ClothingThese are fun frills to add when finishing clothes. This page is about making ruffles on clothing.
Making a Craft ApronThis page is about making a craft apron. Having tools and supplies handy can be facilitated by wearing an apron.
Adjusting WaistbandsThis page is about adjusting waistbands. Whether it's a growth or weight issue, often times clothes need adjustment at the waist.
Making Fabric Lunch BagsThis page is about making fabric lunch bags. A washable lunch sack can be helpful and easy to make.
Making a Harmonica CaseThis is a page about making a harmonica case. Storing your harmonic can be done easily in either an elaborate case or in a simple homemade one.
Making Curtains With GrommetsThis is a page about making curtains with grommets. Making curtains with grommets is an easy way to create beautiful up to date curtains for you home.
Sewing DartsThis is a page about sewing darts. Darts are used in sewing to shape a garment and provide a better fit.
Making a Heat Therapy PillowThis page is about making a heat therapy pillow. A simple sewing project that can bring soothing relief from minor pain and discomfort.
Sewing a Pair of PantsThis is a page about sewing a pair of pants. With the right pattern, sewing a pair of pants can be pretty easy and they will look great too.
Left Handed Directions for Blanket Stitch?I'm looking for simple directions for doing the blanketstitch. I am a lefty.
Adding Bra Strap Retainers to 100+ Choir Dresses?I would like to help out the local middle school choir teacher by adding some bra strap retainers into the 100+ choir dresses. (We currently have to safety pin the straps out of the way for each performance.)
Homemade Crib Bumper Pads?I have 2 pregnant nieces, and they both want bumper pads for a crib. Does anyone have directions to make a bumper pad? Please help, and FAST! Thank you!