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Sewing Tutorials

  • TUTORIAL: Exposed Enclosed Zipper

    Ever since I learned to install the “exposed enclosed zipper,” I have been minorly obsessed with them.  They seem to work on, like, a zillion different projects, perfectly.  I used one on…

  • Handmade Linen Wedding Napkins

    I must really, really, really like my sister. She’s getting married in two weeks (eek!!), and I agreed to sew up the table linens for her reception.…

  • Printable: Bias Tape Makers & Measurements

    While I was at QuiltCon, I had the privilege of teaching a quick demonstration at the invitation of the ladies from Cotton + Steel.  Naturally, the first idea that popped into…

  • Now Available: The Pockets E-Book!

    Raise your hand if you love POCKETS!! Back in 2012, I created a 14-page printable workbook to accompany a practical workshop in pockets, one of my very favorite details to add…

  • Lining Cardboard Storage Boxes: Tutorial

    The vintage maps I decoupaged on my empty cardboard diaper boxes turned out really pretty, but the upper edges had a tendency to peel and unroll, and I was concerned that…

  • Vintage Map Toy Storage Boxes

    This is the story of a problem and a solution. And it all starts with house hunting.  Join me, if you will, on a (short-ish) journey all the way back to…

  • Vintage-Style Teddy Bear Pattern & Tutorial

    Hooray!!  FREE pattern today for the vintage-style teddy bear I made based on the bears my mother sewed for me when I was teensy tiny (turns out she made them when…

  • Snack Bandolier Pattern for Cottage Makers

    I have gotten emails on a regular basis for years, literally, from folks who would like to make the Snack Bandolier from my tutorial for sale at craft shows and street…

  • Making Notches

    With all the garments I’ve been sewing in the past few weeks, I’ve had plenty of time to think about notches.  Those little doo-hickies on the pattern that exist to either…

  • Sewing Machine Maintenance: Cleaning Your Serger

    A serger, or overlock machine, can be a great addition to your sewing arsenal.  They’re not at all essential, obviously, but if you’re planning to open an Etsy shop manufacturing children’s…

  • Sewing Machine Maintenance: Cleaning a Top-Load

    If you’re following along, we’re having an exciting week of CLEANING!  I know how it sounds.  But really, it is exciting to clean your sewing machine–seeing it all shiny and happy…