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Sewing tips

    Simple Drawstring Bag Tutorial

    Posted by on Sep 06 2017

    This is a simple bag pattern that makes up quickly and is great for a lunch bag, small shopping bag and general catch all. It’s super quick and easy to make, too, so it’s perfect when you need a quick gift or sewing project and don’t have a lot of time.  It was recently featured […]

    Fabric Shopping in Paris, France

    Posted by on Jul 15 2011

    So you know that post from two weeks ago, when I mentioned I wouldn’t be posting for a couple of weeks, due to my taking some family time? Well, the part I didn’t mention was I actually went to France with my son and some of my extended family on holiday. Saw the big, iconic […]

    Matching Large Scale Patterns

    Posted by on Apr 09 2011

    Big scale prints are everywhere these days.  Amy Butler, Heather Bailey.  The larger and bolder the better, it seems.  But how do you use these patterns in garment sewing? I’ll show you how I handled a dramatic stylized paisley print to make this adorable spring raincoat from a really nice Michael Miller laminated fabric I’ve […]

    Playing Dress Up

    Posted by on Jan 17 2011

    I’ve wanted a dressform for myself for ages. Not that I don’t love Stanley but I want a Claire-sized version. A lot. I am bound and determined to sew more for myself this year but the downside of being a very good sewer is I’m now too fussy to put up with poorly fitting clothes […]

    It’s All About Me!

    Posted by on Jul 22 2010

    After a mammoth couple of months of ‘business’ sewing, including five Christmas/winter articles, a Valentine’s Day cross-stitch and more, I’m finally taking a bit of a break from ‘gotta-dos’ to sew some ‘wanna-dos’. Last night, I cut out the lining for my Ottobre raincoat. Yes, yes, I know it’s taken me until now to get […]