Fabric to Dye For
As if there isn't enough fabulous fabric out there to tempt us, now we can design and create our own by dyeing, painting, stenciling, stamping, and printing on inkjet printers. Here are some techniques to try.
Calling All Sewing and Embroidery Fans
Check out Martha's Sewing Market this week in Arlington, Texas.
A Collaboration Between Friends
The challenge is a year long collaboration between two craft bloggers, each embroidering a 4-inch linen square inspired by a new word every two weeks.
Try Free-Motion Stitching and Make an Eyeglass Case
After I wrote about machine quilting, I did a little playing with free-motion stitching. It was fun to see if I could actually write with my sewing machine, and it was a good way to practice control over my movements. Then I turned that little practice sample into a soft case for my glasses.
Free Patterns from Amy Butler!
I am in love with the fabrics and patterns that come out of Amy Butler's studio and now I love her even more for posting some free patterns and projects on her website for all to enjoy!
Make Your Own Large-Spool Stand
I love to pass on new ideas I get from friends, teachers, students, and customers. Here is a great way to manage large spools of thread such as those used for your bobbin: Use the spool from packages of new, blank CDs.
Basic Technique Meets New Trends in Machine Quilting
Quilting by machine might have been the only way to do it if sewing machines had been invented centuries ago; however, in the not-too-distant past, traditionalists frowned upon machine-made quilts (in fact, some still do). Today, machine quilts are perfectly acceptable and, for many, the preferred way to go.
Quilting Unplugged: Learn to Hand Quilt
Machine quilting is a joy, and today’s machines are capable of some pretty fancy stitching. But for some of us, there is nothing quite like the quiet contemplation that comes with hand quilting. It is a great way to connect with the past one stitch at a time.
Make a String Quilted Journal
If you have a lot of fabric scraps lying around, you might want to try your hand at string quilting (strip piecing). This traditional technique involves sewing pieces onto a foundation, and here is an easy project to teach you the basics.
How to Reverse-Applique a Tote Bag
Reverse applique involves layering several fabrics together, and then cutting pieces away to reveal what's underneath. This tutorial shows you how.
Experience The Quilts of Gee's Bend
These amazing quilts from rural Alabama represent a rich tradition of regional quiltmaking and are fine examples of American folk art.
Quilters Save the Planet
Quilting has always been a part of sustainable practices. Today, there are many more quilting materials coming to market to make your quilts "green."
More Quilty Pleasures from Mary Ray
Our jaws dropped when we saw the quilted "Lovely Lingerie Bag" Mary Ray created for CraftStylish's Quick Stuff to Make. You too? Find more projects on her blog.
See the World Through Great Fabric
Fabric's can tell us the story of the world. Their fibers, the way that they are created, and the way that they are used can impart important historical, cultural, and sociological information. Did you ever think that by taking a trip to your local fabric shop you could also see the world?
Make a Cool Ultrasuede Applique Pillow Top
Ultrasuede is the perfect fabric for chic, modern appliqué. No need to worry about finishing the raw edges;it cuts clean and doesn’t fray. It’s easy to sew and is available in so many great, rich colors. Make this 9-patch-circle pillow top with some Ultrasuede, and see for yourself.
Give Your Quilt some Dash with Appliqué
Traditionally, appliqué was done painstakingly by hand, turning under the edges of the fabric shapes and sewing them down with tiny stitches. The icons of this technique are the American Baltimore Album quilts, Hawaiian quilts, and Molas—each unique and amazing in design and mastery.
The Magic of Color: How to Make Confident Choices
Quilting is satisfying on so many levels, but especially because it’s about color. Learning about color and the way that colors relate to one another can help build your color confidence and allow you to choose your fabrics wisely and beautifully most of the time.
Take a Peek at Portland's Vibrant Crafty Scene
Portland is one charmer of a hip city, and its crafty venues are downright cool. Come along for a native-led tour.
Color Makes Kaffe Fassett a Master
If you’re a quilter, Kaffe Fassett is a contemporary quiltmaker you need to know. He’s more than a fabulous quiltmaker; he’s a painter, designer, and knitter. He has also written several beautiful books on knitting and quilting, too.
Hang your Quilt on the Wall—without Push-Pins
One of the best ways to maximize the full visual impact of a handmade quilt is to hang it up on a wall instead of using it to cover a bed. Here is a simple way to turn your quilting handiwork into a piece of art. You’ll get a little jolt of pride every time you see it.
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Kaffe Fassett's Museum QuiltsDiscover Textile Treasures of Londons World-Famous Decorative Art Museum, and Learn to Recreate Them Through Full Instruction and Easy-to-Follow Diagrams.
Kaffe Fassett's Kaleidoscope of QuiltsIn Kaffe Fassett's Kaleidoscope of Quilts, you'll discover 20 individual designs that feature both the new fabrics in Rowan's patchwork range and some firm favorites.
The Best of Threads Volume OneQuick computer access to 50 of the best sewing technique articles from Threads magazine
