A couple of weeks ago I mentioned ordering some new sewing books including the Sew Everything Workshop.  All the books have arrived and I’ve been having some fun with them.  It’s time to share.

The bright, yellow cover had caught my attention quite some time ago but in person the book is absolutely irresistible.  Out of all of the new arrivals, this one has absorbed most of my time because it’s just plain fun.

Sew Everything Workshop was written by Diana Rupp.
Read the rest of this entry

Sewing Machines for Beginners – FAQ:

Which sewing machine should I buy?

It would be easy for us to just tell you to buy a certain sewing machine knowing that it had a good rating and you’d be content with its performance but you might find that it doesn’t do everything you need it to do based on how you intend to sew. That is the key to finding the best sewing machine for you, as a beginner. First figure out what type of sewing you want to be able to do right away and in the not too distant future – just mending, making clothes, quilting, craft sewing or embroidery? The answer to that question is the first step in narrowing down your selection. Once answered, don’t look at machines that can’t help you do that type of sewing no matter how good they are because eventually you’ll be dissatisfied and looking for a replacement.

Which brand of sewing machine is best for beginners?

Read the rest of this entry

© Ray_chel

There are a few very simple requirements you’d need of your machine but we’ll explain what those are, how to get started and show you one very, inspiring video.

Have you ever seen a little girl’s dress collar embossed with a scallop stitch in a contrasting color, flowers stitched haphazardly as if dancing at the hem of a skirt, or a special emblem stitched onto a shirt pocket?

Read the rest of this entry

Even beginners notice one thing right away – every machine prominently advertises the number of stitches offered. It’s common to ask yourself, “How many built in stitches do I need?” Your eyes will start to glaze over just contemplating the options.

“Hmmm… a nice, basic machine with 10 stitches. I think I’ll take it.”

“Oh, wait a minute…here’s one with 30. Maybe that’s the one I should get.”

“Hold the phone – here’s one with 150 different built-in stitches!”

Read the rest of this entry

Dear New Sewing Machine,

I am new to sewing but I have high hopes that you and I will have a long and happy future together. I am not overly picky or demanding but I think it would be best if I clarified my expectations up front.

You and I don’t need to take long walks on the beach. You don’t need to buy me flowers. I’ll take good care of you, make sure you’re fed appropriately, and will keep little fingers from breaking off your needles or jamming their toys in your…accessories.

In exchange, I need you to understand the following: Read the rest of this entry