letsgosew.com
  • Home
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Sign Up for Sewing News, Freebies, & Updates
  • Order Just Jackets Embroidery Collection
  • Just Jackets FAQ
  • Order Wrapped in Embroidery Book by Joanne Banko
  • Joanne Banko's Blog
  • It's Sew Easy TV Online Blog
  • Machine Embroidery Survey
  • IT'S SEW EASY TV Videos & Bonus Files
    • NEW! It's Sew Easy TV Series 2100
    • It's Sew Easy TV_Series 2000
    • It's Sew Easy TV_Series 1500
    • It's Sew Easy TV - Series 1600
    • It's Sew Easy TV_Series 1700
    • It's Sew Easy TV Series 1800
    • It's Sew Easy TV Series 1900
    • NEW! Superstar Sewing Stitches
    • NEW! Classy Textured Cape
    • NEW! Baby Bath Wrap
    • NEW! Detachable Collar
    • Sew a Swimsuit
    • Machine Embroidered Garments
    • Kimono Blouses
    • Custom Covered Hangers
    • Sewing Beautiful Belts
    • Felted Flower Hat Trim
    • Sew a Waffle Weave Robe
    • Learn about Couching accessories!
    • Turn a Pashmina into a Trendy Topper
    • Machine Embroidered Reverse Applique
    • Machine Embroidered Knit Dress
    • Use Non-Stick Foot to sew a Custom Luggage Tag
    • Serge & Sew Broomstick Skirt
    • Machine Embroidered Western Jacket
    • Machine Embroidered Bobbin Work Pashmina
    • Embroidered Pajamas
    • Sewing Pearls and Sequins
    • Learn how to use the Fringe Foot
    • Quilted Pinwheel Patchwork Tote
    • Machine Embroidered Lace for Lingerie
    • Sewing Circles with a Circular Attachment
    • Sew with the Edge Joining Foot
    • Re-style Tops for Little Girls
    • Short Style Tip- Blouse Embellishment
    • Learn how to make pretty piping using the Piping Foot
    • Embellish with the Three Slot Cording Foot
    • Facebook Live Interview 12-4-2018
    • Machine Embroidery - Starter Tips
  • FREE Tutorials and Tip Sheets
    • NEW! Embroidery Placement Positioning Tips
    • Free Embroidered Snowflake Coasters
    • Tip sheet - 5 Reasons Quilters Need A Serger
    • Free In-the-Hoop Patch Pocket Design
    • Serging versus Sewing
    • FREE Project-Embroidered Gift Tag with Gift Bag
    • Tip Sheet - Pillow Pointers
    • Tip sheet_Sew Straight Laser for Seams
    • Embelishment Tips from dime V.111
    • Tip sheet - Shannon Embrace Double Gauze
    • Tip sheet - Fun with Fonts
    • Fabric Tip Sheet- Sewing Faux Suede
    • Tip sheet for Sewing & Embroidering with Metallic Thread
    • Fleece Ruana Pattern: As seen on PBS It's Sew Easy TV
    • Fabric Tip Sheet - Crepe Back Satin
    • Fabric Tip Sheet-Sewing Slinky Type Knit
    • Fabric Tip Sheet - Fleece
    • Fancy Footwork Tipsheet - About the Walking Foot
    • Fancy Footwork Tip Sheet_Basic Appliqué
    • Fancy Footwork Tip sheet - Ruffler Attachment
    • Fancy Footwork Tip Sheet - Narrow Hems with a Standard Foot
    • Fancy Footwork Tip Sheet - Non Stick Foot
    • Tip sheet - Machine Embroidery Pattern Connection Resources
    • Tip Sheet - Machine Set up for Shirring
    • Tip sheet - Snowman and Target Markers
    • Tip Sheet for Printing on Fabric
    • Tip sheet-Five Ways to Finish Fleece Blankets
    • T-Shirt Transformation Tutorial
    • Project- Serge a Little Girl's Sweet Summer Dress
    • Tip Sheet for Fleece Frame Shape Appliqué
    • Tip Sheet - Bobbin Work Sewing & Embroidery
    • Tip Sheet - Custom Covered Buttons
    • Tip Sheet - Liquid Stabilizers
    • Tip sheet - Appliqué with Brother XV8500D & ScanNCut
    • Project - Sheer Chiffon Wrap
    • Project - Pearl Trimmed Candle Ring
    • Tip Sheet -Mitered Satin Blanket Binding
    • Fabric Tip Sheet_Knit Know How
    • Tool School Tip Sheets
    • ITH Project Planner
  • As seen in DiME Magazine - Photo Gallery
  • Sewing and Embroidery Events
  • About Joanne Banko
  • What's New? Let's Get Creative Club Meetings
  • November Pinecone Project

It's Sew Easy show 1210

5/26/2017

1 Comment

 
Picture
The theme for show 1210 is geared towards a weekend getaway. For many of us these bags would serve as great day-to-day totes as well. While many of my friends know that my standard purse is a teeny tiny shoulder bag, they also know I often carry an extra tote for the rest of my assorted and seemingly necessary "stuff!"

Watch this show and you are likely to find something you can use on a regular basis. You'll see a colorful bag for toting your tech device and a roomy weekender bag with padded handles. At the end of the show there is yet another tutorial in the serger tip series as Angela Wolf shares a tip for starting and stopping a serger stitch.
Picture
In the first segment Kay Whitt, owner and operator of Serendipity Studio walks you through the making of  one of her beautiful bags. Watch as she makes a divided bag for toting your tablet along with other items that you want to keep separate like a notebook, keys, or anything else that would not be travel friendly with a delicate device. You will practically feel like Kay is sitting in your sewing space tutoring you and guiding you from start to finish.  If you are a big time bag lover you will LOVE Kay’s other patterns for even more fabulous bags. CLICK HERE to visit her site and see all of her great bag patterns.

Picture
Interested in making a nice big beautiful bag that rivals designer style satchels found in gift shops? In the second segment Donna Babylon makes a weekender bag that will remind you of the pretty quilted bags you know by a familiar name that starts with a "V" and ends with a "B"! Donna delivers lots of tips and tricks in this show. You’ll get a mini lesson in monograms as she adds  appliqués for a traditional three-letter monogram. You’ll get tips for precision stitching to permanently attach the letters with a traditional “blanket style” appliqué stitch. Keep a notebook handy while you watch, you are going to want to use her helpful tricks and tips for many other projects. Want to make your very own weekender like the one you see on the show? The pattern for the bag is available for purchase from Donna when you CLICK HERE.
Picture
In the last short portion of the show Angela Wolf will teach you the ins and outs of serging curves, along with a tip for starting and stopping with a serger.
This show is currently showing online until Friday September 1st at noon EST. You can CLICK HERE to go and watch the show. Enjoy!
1 Comment

May 20th, 2017

5/20/2017

0 Comments

 
Picture
This fun and inspiring show begins with Donna Babylon making a portable pet blanket.
Picture
Donna is self-confessed passionate pet Mom, with a love not only for her own furry babies but also with a caring heart for abandoned and stray pets! But that's another story for another day ;-) Today I'd like to fill you in on Donna's travel ready Pet Projects, pun intended :-)
This magic tote that transforms into an easy to carry folding pet bed. Her added appliqué trims a pocket that's perfect for treats or other travel essentials.
Picture
The iron-on WOOF! comes from her variety of collections at www.sayitwithapplique.com. The outside of this piece features super cute novelty cotton from Ink and Arrow Fabrics. The inside is what might easily be called the softest fabric found in contemporary fabrics. Distributed by Shannon Fabrics, Cuddle® reminds me of baby bunny fur. Their motto is quiet descriptive of the variety of fabrics they offer . . . "Making the world a softer place." FABRIC.COM has a great selection of their soft fabrics if you can't find them locally.

Picture
You'll see the walking foot featured in this segment. It is absolutely ideal for stitching layers that are totally unlike one another, such as the combination of Ink and Arrow cotton and the textured chevron Cuddle® fabric.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Picture
Speaking of soft, Angela Wolf's project for this week's show is a hooded towel made from cotton and microfiber towels. Just like the previous project, this involves mixing two very opposite types of fabrics. This is often the source of a tricky sewing operation. When it comes to tricky sewing, one tool that will work for EVERYONE is a definitely a walking foot.

​Often relegated to the quilting category, in my opinion this foot is one of the best-kept secrets for those who sew anything and everything that fits into the category of "tricky." You can CLICK HERE to read and download my free tip sheet with information and ideas for taking advantage of the wonders of the walking foot.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Next up in show 1209 . . . Focus on the Fringe foot
Picture
Picture
Picture
In the final, short segment of the show you'll see me demonstrate fringe trim made with the Fringe Foot. This foot has been around for quite some time and makes it easy to add embellishments using nothing more than the Fringe Foot and thread, either ordinary or decorative. 
    Step 1) Zigzag Stitch       Step 2) Triple Straight Stitch
Picture
Picture
To form fringe I used a two-step process using two basic stitches. In step one the fringe is formed with a wide, short, loose zigzag stitch. In step two a triple straight stitch anchors the loops so they can be cut to form fringe.
Picture
The tote featured on this show is a project previously created for brothersews.com. CLICK HERE to find complete for instructions for this tote.

This short video segment is permanently posted on my site. You can CLICK HERE to watch this portion of the show anytime you like!
Picture
Picture
Looking for more fringe foot ideas? You'll find a cute coordinating t-shirt project when you CLICK HERE. Click on the zebra image to view categories for Free design of the month and you can download the free zebra design courtesy of Brothersews.
Picture
Last but not least here is a cute bib project with textured loops made using the now Famous Fringe foot! Click on the image for complete instructions.

I know, there are lots of clicks for you this week!!! Are you ready to go watch the show? Just CLICK HERE. This show is currently online till August 25th at noon EST. 
0 Comments

It's Sew Easy Episode 1208: PADDED Pouch, EXPANDABLE Pockets & MORE!

5/13/2017

0 Comments

 
Picture
It's Sew Easy TV show 1208 is full of practical and secure ways to store your valuables when traveling. These same ideas are appropriate for home and everyday use too! In the first segment Rebecca gives you a large dose of good advice and do-it-yourself instructions for making a padded tech tote for your favorite device.
Picture
Picture
At first glance this looks like a typical envelope style organizer bag. It certainly could be used to store or tote just about anything you wish. With protective foam padding she designed it to be perfect for carrying something delicate like a tablet or e-reader. Easy to open and shut, it is ideal for those tech type items you want to have close at hand yet attractively covered and concealed.

Picture
If you've watched my friend Rebecca in the past you know she always comes up with clever fabric and added details to make the project fun and full of learning opportunities. Her "envelope" pouch is put together using a novelty postal print fabric with a bold contrast binding. Not only is this a clever looking piece, her lesson is loaded with tips, tricks and techniques! While watching this segment I made note of at least a half dozen inspiring ideas she shared. Watch from beginning to end and you'll learn something new that you can apply to many other projects.
Picture
Up next in show 1208 . . . Functional, fashionable, and expandable cargo pockets.
Picture
Shop around and you are sure to see these pockets in abundance in ready-to-wear. They are a hot fashion element and prevalent in the casual wear section of many stores and catalogs. However, most of the pockets I see in this style are either very bulky, or they are what I would call "faux" cargo. They look like they would expand but in fact the pleat are just there for good looks and not for true function. I can assure you the two pockets demonstrated here are the real deal. There's even a FREE pattern download for the pleated pocket I stitched on the show.
Picture
There is a lot to tell about the larger pocket and the featured garment. First lets talk about the pattern. It is yet another one of my favorite Folkwear offerings, Pattern #130:  the Australian Bush Jacket. A true classic, I would define this as a safari style jacket/shirt. Visit the Folkwear website and you'll see a few additional photos that help you visualize the possibilities with this pattern. 
Picture
As you can see,  depending on the fabric you choose it can be worn all buttoned up to look more like a shirt than a jacket. The one you see here is made from a shirt weight fabric called Burma silk. It was one of those "collectable" pieces I had in my stash just waiting to come alive at the right time for the right garment. Most any shirt weight fabric will do. Designed for intermediate sewing skills, keep in mind the pattern is not designed for heavy jacket weight fabrics. 

Picture
I didn't make many changes other than adding my own pockets, shortening the length a bit, and eliminating the pocket reinforcement strips and belt. For those who love to sew detailed garments this pattern is pure joy from start to finish! I will admit that I usually make a trial garment from  fabric I'm not emotionally attached to before I plunge into stitching an irreplaceable piece from my stash. However, since I've made several Folkwear patterns by now I'm pretty confident of the sizing that works for me and as you can see I hit the jackpot with perfect fit on this one.
Picture
Back to the pocket topic, between the time spent explaining construction on the show, and the downloadable instructions that coordinate with the segment, I'm confident you'll be able to make this yourself. Either of these pockets would also work for totes and bags so don't think they're only fit for garments. Here's a fun little behind the scenes tidbit for you - the pocket shown at the very end of the show is an original sample I made in fashion school in the 80's! Who knew that someday I would be able to share this great sample with all of you?!? This only proves that the skills you learn while sewing someday will surely be put to good use!
Picture
At the end of show 1208 Angela gives a quick lesson on stitching a blind hem with the serger. If you would like to see a complete project using this technique you can click on the image below. This will take you to a recent Brother blog post I submitted with step-by-step instructions for putting this skill into practice while making an attractive T-shirt with a basic serger. 

Picture
CLICK HERE to purchase personal copies of It's Sew Easy TV shows.

​Hope you enjoyed this post. Be sure to leave your comments!
0 Comments

IT'S SEW EASY EPISODE 1207: DRESS FOR THE WEATHER

5/6/2017

0 Comments

 
Picture
Travel can mean a literal change of the seasons as you move from point A to point B on the map. Coping with weather and changing temperatures can be challenging. This week you’ll get ideas for making your journey more comfortable and therefore more enjoyable!
Picture
The show starts with this Trendy Topper made from a basic pashmina scarf. This segment is also on YouTube so you can watch it over again whenever you like. ​Click on the image here and it will take you directly to the YouTube channel for It's Sew Easy TV.

I have to admit I have pashmina mania and simply can't get enough of these wonderful rectangles! I guess you could say pashminas are a cross between a scarf and a shawl. I've been collecting them for years "as is." I've also had a lot of fun turning them into something more than what they are when you bring them home from the store. To date, I've added bands of embroidery, embellished them with bobbin work and beads, stitched rows of silk ribbon and synthetic ribbon to dress up plain colors, and most recently made this one that is almost a jacket but not quite so I'm calling it a "topper."
Picture
Here you get a peek behind the scenes as I try to get the wiggly pashmina to stay put so I can show the steps on camera!

If you suffer from the hot - cold - cold - hot and not sure what's coming next syndrome, you'll appreciate having something like this to pop on or slip off in a hurry. Perfect for travel yes, but for me having a wrap is the next best thing to a security blanket since it ups the comfort level when I have no control over the internal or external thermostat! In almost any season I rarely leave home without a wrap!
Picture
Picture
You'll hear me mention several of my favorite sewing techniques as I make the topper.
Picture
One of them is the use of this handy combination of a ruler and pressing tool. It's officially called an ​Ezy-Hem® Gauge and made by the notions folks at Dritz. Click on the image to learn more.

Picture
Complete instructions are on the website so be sure to download the PDF after you watch the show. You can CLICK HERE for the direct link.
Picture
In the second half of the show Angela Wolf takes you through her method for adding a pocket when none exists. This tutorial is useful for so many different projects. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to add zipper pockets to existing patterns.

Picture
At the very end of the show Angela shows some quick tips for saving serger edges that go astray. If you have a serger you have likely learned a lot already during this series. And, if you don't have a serger yet, you may be considering adding one to your sewing space. My advice would be to visit a goo sewing machine dealer and let them show you your options. Like anything sergers vary in price, quality, and capability and you need to find the one that suits you best. 
If you're ready to watch the show you can CLICK HERE. This show currently airs until noon EST, August 11th.
0 Comments
    Welcome!
    ​
    E
    ach week at noon a new show airs online at itsseweasytv.com.
    This blog features a preview of each weekly show.
    Picture

    Author:​

    Joanne Banko
    Brother Ambassador

    Inspiring Sewing Enthusiasts to make the most of their machines!

    ​
    Click Here to Sign up for Sewing News, & updates about FREE Tip Sheets and FREE Project downloads.

    Archives

    March 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    March 2014
    February 2014

    As a believer in full disclosure, I'd like you to know that Blog posts may contain affiliate links for products and services I know and trust. Purchasing items through a link marked * results in a small commission for me, with no extra charges for you.
    Shop popular online retailers via EBATES and you will receive cash back rebates on all your purchases. I have personally used Ebates for  for several years and receive a small referral fee if you click the button below.
    Ebates Coupons and Cash Back

    RSS Feed

© Copyright 2022 by Joanne Banko. All rights Reserved