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! 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." 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! You'll hear me mention several of my favorite sewing techniques as I make the topper. 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. 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. 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. 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.
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This week the show has a simple and straightforward theme - Get comfortable! Traveling for work, going on vacation, or just traveling from point A to point B, comfort makes the journey more pleasant. Comfortable clothes and great travel accessories are presented throughout this entire series. This week's show begins with Donna Babylon demonstrating a cute and super useful lingerie bag. Her Ooh-la-la appliqué letters fit with the fabric theme she selected and will surely bring a smile each time you tuck away your lingerie! Be prepared to jot down some notes while you watch this segment. Donna shares lots of helpful tips while making this zippered bag. You'll want to repeat these techniques on future projects. Next Donna squeezes another item into this segment, a neck pillow made from super soft fabric. I purchased a similar pillow a long time ago and practically go into panic mode if I neglect to pack it for a trip. It's great for home use too, providing extra neck support while reading in bed. Cuddle® fabric from Shannon Fabrics is an ideal choice for a pillow like this. It's easy to sew when you follow Donna's tips. She has provided complete instructions and a free pattern for the neck pillow. CLICK HERE to download a copy. Take a look at the big bold appliqué letter on the pillow! What a great way to identify your own personal pillow or customize it for a special gift. Visit Donna at www.sayitwithapplique.com to see more fusible letter kits and a variety of projects to use them on. In the second half of the show Angela shows you how to make a lovely lacy top. Using her versatile Evelyn pattern, watch as she guides you from prepping the pattern to finishing the neck, sewing the seams, and hemming this flattering top. Novelty fabrics like this can be challenging to construct but Angela demystifies the process. The end result is something you can wear as a swimsuit cover-up or as a blouse with a tank top underneath. It's perfect for summery days at home or away! In the last few minutes of the show you'll learn how to dial your way to a smooth serger stitch! Learn more about the controls you see on the serger and how small adjustments can make a big difference in the end result. Personally, I can't imagine sewing without a serger. I could sing its praises all day long! Not just for garments but also for crafting, quilting, home decor, and most anything that involves a piece of fabric. In fact during the month of April I've posted a few miscellaneous serger tips on the letsgosew Facebook page. You can CLICK HERE to take a look. Are you ready to "get comfortable" and watch show #1206? CLICK HERE. This show will air from July 28th to August 4th. Enjoy!
You'll see two totes and a breezy blue swimsuit cover-up on show 1205. These easy to sew items will have you ready for the outdoors in a flash and suited up for summer vacation or some well deserved relaxation close to home! The first segment features a project perfect for anything from a picnic to a day at the beach. At first glance you'll find yourself asking, is it a towel or is it a tote??? Rebecca Kemp Brent proves it can be both! She has fashioned a big beach towel, arguably a summer necessity, into a clever tote. If you’re spoiled by Rebecca's customary step-by-step instructions you'll be happy to know that she has provided written materials with all the info you need to make this for yourself. Just CLICK HERE to download instructions from the TV website. Next, sewing blogger and author Caroline Critchfield sews a fish-shaped drawstring bag. Use it for the beach or the laundry room, your choice! And yes, Caroline has provided a complete printable pattern with crystal clear instructions. CLICK HERE to find them. Next up you’ll find me sewing in circles to create a soft flounce for the sleeves on a swimsuit cover up. In reality, this cover-up is an oversized tunic top. The pattern has been modified slightly and I cut a larger size to make it work as a cover-up. Originally, instructions for the cover-up, along with a companion beach bag were shown in the Projects & Free Designs section of the Brothersews website. Click on each of the images to find the original instructions. I highly recommend this pattern, whether you make it as is for a warm weather top before or sew it slightly oversized for this good looking cover-up. New Look Pattern 6292 is still current as I write this blog. I know I liked the pattern but it also has five star reviews on the popular Pattern Review site. New Look patterns are always at the top of my "favorites" list. I personally like the style, fit, and the price range of this Simplicity® brand of patterns. I reach for New Look again and again, especially when I am looking for a basic simple style. Just a tip: Choose a pattern according to your true body measurements and make a test garment to see if you agree. You may find that these become a new favorite for you too! Are you ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE. This show is on air until July 28th at noon EST.
Close to home or far away, smart packing makes for enjoyable travels. This week you'll learn how to embroider a designer tote and accessorize simply styled dresses. It's Sew Easy Episode 1204 Eileen Roche is known for many different machine embroidered clothes, crafts, and quilts. One of her best known items is the fashionable line of purses and totes she has designed. Wait until you see what she stitches in-the-hoop with an embroidery machine! I would guess that many of us have a boatload of totes, but do you have one so wonderful you find yourself taking everywhere you go? I the answer is no, then now is the time to make a great tote. If you're looking for a tote that's sure to get many compliments and is neutral enough to coordinate with your whole wardrobe, this "postmark" tote may be just the ticket. It's designed for a laptop but don't let that stop you from using it for anything and everything! The steps to make this tote are easy but the results are nothing short of fabulous! Visit your local sewing shop to ask about ordering the Designer Handbags collection, which includes the tote featured in this episode. CLICK HERE to find out more information about this design CD. Now, are you ready for some travel worthy pieces that work from sun up to sun down? Get ready to sew, embroidery, and accessorize some slinky type knit dresses. The next segment is all about easy dressing with knits that travel well. First you'll see some highly packable accent pieces that turn a plain dress into something special for day or night. This includes a few of my favorite scarves from the Wrapped in Embroidery book. After a few accessory tips you'll see how these Blue Roses add a three-dimensional accent to a knit neckline. The Blue Rose Cluster and Blue Rose Border are special designs from the Brother ibroidery.com website. Most of this segment focuses on a great machine embroidery technique I like to call "offsite" embroidery. It simply means the embroidery is done elsewhere or offsite, and then added to a partially or fully constructed garment. In this case the embroidery is on fine netting that closely matches the dress fabric. You'll also get some tips for sewing super slinky, stretchy knits like the tank style dresses in this show. Complete instructions are on the It's Sew Easy TV website. Just CLICK HERE. In the last few minutes of the show Angela shares yet another serger tip. This time you'll learn basic set up for narrow rolled hems. Show 1204 is currently airing on itsseweasytv.com until noon EST, July 21. This entire series is full of great projects that will help you improve your wardrobe, organize important belongings, and of course guide you towards more enjoyable travel experiences! Many of the items presented in this "On the Road" series will make your life easier on a day-to-day basis. Caroline Critchfield starts the show off with something fun! She is a prolific blogger, author, and an expert in making simple projects that are pretty and practical. In this show she creates a fast fold and stitch wallet using small fabric remnants. Watch as she completes the entire project in just a few minutes. This is a project anyone can make and just about everyone can use! Pattern pieces and complete instructions are on the It's Sew Easy TV website. The snap setter shown for this project intrigued me. Turns out it is the Babyville Boutique brand. Fabric.com has a nice selection of this brand of snaps along with the snap setter tool. I know a lot of people who love these plastic style snaps. Far less expensive than metal snaps, they're great for baby wear, items for little ones, and craft projects. Call me a traditionalist, but I'm still partial to the metal ones, like those produced by Snap Source and Dritz. Anyone else care to weigh in on the topic? I'd love to hear your comments and thoughts on this! In the next part of the show you'll see Angela transform pants to shorts and then shorts back to pants. Outdoor and sporting enthusiasts are sure to love this great tutorial. She shows you how to turn a ready made pair of pants into a convertible style, extending their use and turning two garments in one packable piece! In the last few minutes of the show you'll get some additional tips for balancing serger tension. While every serger is different, this continuing series will help you understand your serger, master the adjustments, and make the serger earn its keep as a workhorse in your own sewing space. You can CLICK HERE to watch the show. It will be available Now showing online until noon EST on April 14th. Time for another show in the series titled On the Road! Pack and go! That's the first priority of traveling, whether it is a day trip, an overnight adventure, or an extended trip to far-away places. In the first segment Rebecca stitches together packing totes that are durable and attractive. These practical packing cubes can solve storage problems in your suitcase, dresser drawers, closet, and even in your sewing room! Over the years I have purchased many of these from travel supply sites. I'm currently using some to organize my sock drawer, the only drawer I obsessively keep organized :-) Rebecca makes me want to make my own little cases. I now have visions of colorful cubes in every suitcase and storage spot in my home! As always, her instructions are straightforward and easy to repeat. Be sure to download her pattern and instructions to make your own perfect packing cubes. Next up you'll see Angela make a sparkling organizer bag as a gift for her sister. Her manicure case has lots of details, including see through pockets, embroidery, and iron-on crystals for personalizing the case. Watch the Brother ScanNCut machine slice through special material for a bit of bling that spells out the word SISTER. One quick press fuses multiple crystals in seconds! You'll also learn how the smooth finish of a Non-Stick foot helps glide over the clear pocket pieces when stitching the bag. This flat style foot is on my must have list as it can substitute for a standard sewing foot in many instances. It is perfect when you need to smooth sewing with a little less drag on your fabric layers. CLICK HERE to go to the official Brother blog and watch five step-by-step videos Angela taped for this particular project. You'll also find a PDF on the TV website. In the last, short segment you'll see me use yet another version of a Non-Stick foot, this time it is a roller style foot. This foot combines the best features of a non-stick foot with a roller type press foot. CLICK HERE to learn more about this foot. I show how effortless it is to sew suede and vinyl while constructing a distinctive luggage tag. Little things like this Paris themed tag make tracking your suitcase a more cheerful adventure! My tag coordinates with an organizer bag full of clear zippered pockets. A set like this makes a wonderful gift for family and friends! Learn more about these travel pieces and download step-by-step instructions for both of these items when you visit the projects section of the TV website. You'll find the link for TV show project instructions at the top of the It's Sew Easy TV homepage, or you can CLICK HERE to view all.
It’s time to hit the road! Throughout this series you'll see how to make fashionable, easy-to-wear clothes that mix and match. Learn how to make your own organizers, totes, and accessories that use every inch of packing space. You'll even see projects geared for pets and children. This entire series is designed to make travel near and far easier and more fun! Episode 1201: Angela Wolf serges go-together separates to mix and match and travel wrinkle-free. The serger takes center stage in this episode. See how fast it can be to make a whole wardrobe of mix and match, wrinkle free clothes that take you anywhere you want to go! Currently airing from June 23-30, 2017. CLICK HERE to go watch the show.
Sewing in this Century is nothing short of amazing! Modern technology and state of the art tools make creativity and design options effortless and abundant! You'll see some interesting options in show 1113. This episode of It's Sew Easy explores camera like technology built in to the Brother Dream Machine, plus interesting printable designs from software options available to anyone with a common computer. The show begins with Eileen Roche demonstrating machine embroidered design options with simple skirts as her basic canvas. I know of no one better to explain the art of combining machine-embroidered designs with proper placement for a flattering, finished look. Eileen walks you through the process of building big embroidery using a standard size (5-inch X 7-inch Hoop). Her technique for this from of successful stitchery involves using a template to visualize and align the design just as it will look when stitched. Standard computer paper works just fine for templates but the folks at Dime produce a unique and practical Print and Stick Paper product that is ideal for designing single or multiple design layouts. After completing the skirt demonstration Eileen returns with another quick segment showing tips and tricks for attractive embroidery placement, again using templates to make things foolproof. I love using templates and often use the very same method Eileen shows here. I recently produced a dress project currently featured on the official Brother blog. I used templates along with Brother Innove-InnovEye® Technology and a scanning feature built in to select Brother models to precisely position a connected strip of designs for the center front of the dress. Click on the image to read more on the Stitching Sewcial blog and see the completed dress. No camera? No problem . . . if you don't have camera like technology in your machine there are other options. Even if you have a standard machine you can still get perfect placement. In my Wrapped in Embroidery book I've included three different embroidery placement methods. One or more of these easy methods are guaranteed to work for most embroidery enthusiasts, even if your machine is not high tech. In addition, there is a tutorial on Brothersews that shows you how to properly make use of the template grid included with hoops that come standard with machines. CLICK HERE to read this informative set of instructions. To wrap up the show, my friend Kim Montagnese makes a memory last with a stuffed journal pillow made with Kaleidoscope prints and circles stitched to form a cube. I've known Kim for some time now and everything she creates is nothing short of spectacular! She is a master at seeing art in just about everything around her and knows how to translate this vision to create fiber related masterpieces. Kim has made many items with this Kaleidoscope design software and knows it through and through. You are sure to enjoy watching her demonstrate the possibilities. Are you ready to go watch the show?
CLICK HERE. It's Sew Easy episode 1112: RETRO STYLE FOR TODAY - SHOWING ONLINE UNTIL NOON EST March 17TH12/9/2016 Here is the offical description for the segments you'll see in episode 1112: Cosplay enthusiast Cheryl Sleboda creates authentic-looking Steampunk accessories with contemporary fabrics. Designer Gretchen Hirsch shares a style tip for making miles of ruffles in a snap. Couture designer Angela Wolf redesigns an out-of-style jacket to create an on-trend vest. Cheryl Sleboda, costume designer and comic character expert shows you how to sew with PUL. Use PUL fabric anywhere you need a waterproof, soft, breathable moisture barrier PUL is a pliable and attractive fabric. This fabric is also popular for sewing baby items such as diaper covers, proving that knowledge of something in sewing can always be applied to something else! Unless you want to sandwich all your seams on the top and bottom with paper, you will definitely want to sew PUL with a non-stick foot. This handy foot is on my top ten accessory list. It’s a foot you will definitely reach for again and again. For Brother machines you will find two types, a flat foot and a style that rolls. Click on the links below for a more detailed description of each foot: UPDATE! I posted a new video lesson showing this foot in action. CLICK HERE to watch this short video. Speaking of feet, in the next segment you'll see how to ruffle up a ten-yard strip of fabric using the seemingly ancient but ever helpful Ruffler Attachment. Click on the link below for a tutorial I produced with a Ruffler 101 diagram and lots of valuable information: Ruffler Tutorial In the final segment Angela Wolf chops off a few sleeves to re-style a jacket into a vest. Her sample pieces are great and will give you inspiration to go into your closet and find something suitable for your own recycling project. Learn how to re-style jackets into trendy vests in no time at all. Angela walks you through trimming the armholes with binding and trim. In the last part of the show you’ll see how to alter a straight leg pattern for a high waist style that would coordinate really well with a vest. Are you ready to watch It's Sew Easy episode 1112? CLICK HERE and enjoy!
Take your style everywhere you go! You'll get lots of fashion ideas and learn new sewing techniques from It’s Sew Easy episode 1111. First up Angela Wolf whips up a sensational dress using a serger for the majority of the construction. Listen as she gives tips on sewing with a knit known as ITY. This knit fabric is soft and silky, travels well, and is incredibly comfortable to wear. Here is how one of my favorite fabric resources, Fabric.com, defines ITY: ITY stands for Interlock Twist Yarn and is a soft, lightweight, slinky knit fabric often used to create tops, skirts, dresses, and dancewear. This fabric is tightly woven and does not wrinkle easily. You'll see Angela show three options for hemming this type of knit. Very valuable information if you make the dress or if you ever have to re-hem a ready made garment constructed from ITY. In part two you'll see my short style segment featuring adorable clothes for little girls. In the free instruction download you'll get all the details for the outfits shown in the photo above. CLICK HERE for a direct link to these instructions. Although it is not part of this show, I made a ruffled and personalized drawstring pajama bag to coordinate with this little outfit. CLICK HERE for a link to these instructions. In this super fast segment I demonstrate sewing buttons on by machine. The button sewing foot makes one of my least favorite hand sewing tasks effortless and speedy. While I don't particulary like to sew them on by hand, I do love to search for special buttons. Are you a button collector like me? I always find myself saying, "buttons are so small they won't take up much space." Ha! Sounds good in theory but you may agree with me when I say that collecting buttons can be addictive. Just a few can easily turn into many!!! My friend Heather rounds out the show with an easy skirt you can make from just a few measurements and a small amount of time. Once again, you'll see the serger in action, making quick work of garment construction. Be sure to visit the project section of the it's Sew Easy TV website for Heather's detailed instructions for making this skirt. CLICK HERE if you are ready to watch the show. Enjoy!
I think that Casual Style is pretty much an everyday thing for many of us these days. However, even casual styles can be elevated to clothing that's more suitable for work or other times when you want to be comfortable but dressed "nice." What's the trick? Sew casual styles in fabrics that are a bit dressier and you have the best of both worlds, comfort and style! All three of this week's It's Sew Easy TV episodes will give you plenty of ideas and inspiration for achieving the goal of Casual Comfort with Style! What do you get when you cross a T-shirt with a button down shirt? The downtown tunic! Caroline Hulse starts this show with something young and fun - the Downtown Tunic. She'll show you how to mix a knit with a woven and make it work into a cute top. In fact this style is youthful but with the right selection of fabrics it would appeal to women in many different age categories. Angela Wolf features a frayed flower design in her short style segment. This simple idea for reverse appliqué has been a favorite technique of mine for a long time. Before I played with machine embroidery I used many forms of appliqué as embellishment, including this idea of placing fabric on the wrong side and cutting out the appliqué shape from the main fabric above. Appliqué is a great way to add interest to plain garments, and a good substitute for machine embroidery. Judy Kessinger is last but by no means least in the third segment of this show. Her tips include designing tops with simple shapes, detailed information on choosing fabrics, and even advice for colors that suit your style. This segment is loaded with good advice. Ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE.
Today's active lifestyle means that a large percentage of us have a wardrobe with lots of knits. If you are sewing anything at all made from a knitted fabric you will learn valuable techniques from watching this show. In the very first segment I share specifics about swimwear fabric and give a detailed list for everything else you'll need for sewing swimwear from patterns, to pins, needles, and elastic. I have sewn most of my own swimwear since I was a young teen! I've learned a lot since my very first attempt. My first suit was a two piece get up made from a green terry cloth print that resembled a tortoise shell. Yep, true story . . . and not a very good idea! Fine for basking in the sun, but yikes! It was very heavy when wet and only got worn once. Ha, the crazy things we make when no one tells us not to!!! (Read my update at the end of this post.) But, many years later, I can honestly say that now my finished suits look totally "store bought." The suit on the left in the photo above is purchased and the one on the right is my featured "sewn from scratch" sample for the show. I used a Kwik Sew pattern from SewSassy.com. They are a one stop shopping site for anything lingerie and swimwear related and super nice to deal with. As per usual, the first time you use a pattern you discover what to do different the second time around. Kwik Sew 3609 has a great swim dress style option, a nice alternative for a modest length, and comfortable bottoms. However, you will need a little patience to create the twisted knot bust detailing. Here is a look at just part of the instructions for this design detail. Next time I would prefer lining the cups with self fabric. I find myself having to adjust the twist before wearing to keep the lining from peeking out. I will make this suit again though. I have taken the plunge in this suit and it passed the test for "swim ability." Using a combination of the sewing machine and serger, my finished suit is certainly swim worthy and flattering. Make sure you visit the project section of the website to read more about selecting stitches, sewing elastic, plus additional sewing details in my seven page pdf file. Click on the image below to go directly to the download section for these free instructions. The rest of show 1109 is very informative. In the short style segment you'll get tips for sewing thick denim from Cheryl Sleboda. Last but not least, Angela shows you how to serge a great looking pair of color blocked knit pants. You'll see how the Cover Stitch Serger and a Standard Serger work in tandem to stitch up pants that everyone will think came from the best activewear department at your favorite store! If you're ready to watch the show you can CLICK HERE. Enjoy! Update! I was searching through my pattern stash for something else this morning and crazy as it is, I found the original two piece swimsuit pattern I told you all about. Here is . . . dated 1973!!! The print is tiny but the date is there and the recommended fabric list includes soft cotton so my terry cloth wasn't so far off after all ;-) Pattern information appears to be more complete and specific these days, would you agree? Yes, I admit I have many patterns from sewing days long since past. Guess for me they are like scrapbook albums full of memories and I have trouble parting with them. Anyone else have patterns from your sewing past still in your stash??? I would love to know how far back you can go. This one could easily be tagged as one of my earliest projects ever!!!
If you are a garment sewing enthusiast you are going to love this show! You'll see fitting expert Judy Kessinger create many pant styles using just one master pattern, learn knit tips from Angela Wolf, and see sewing blogger Gretchen Hirsch add eyelets to create a lace–up bodice on a dress. Are you on a never ending quest for the perfect pair of pants? Somehow I think I'm hearing YES, YES, YES!!! If that is the case then this segment will certainly speak to that deep desire. Judy Kessigner from the Fit Nice System is known as the Fit Doctor. During this show she discusses ways to vary a master pant pattern and create five distinct styles. If you have just one semi-tailored pant pattern that fits well, you can use her ideas to make many variations. Lots and lots of tips for fabric selection and a great method to sew elastic are included in this segment! Angela Wolf presents tips for knits in the short style segment that follows. Knits are a forgiving fabric but there so many different kinds! You need to study up and pay attention to the amount of stretch found in the many different choices found in the fabric department. You'll learn a lot from Angela in this short segment. You can CLICK HERE to download a Free tip sheet I wrote recently with even more tips for knits. Gretchen Hirsch is up next. Known for fifties style garments with a focus on dresses, she re-creates a corset like look with lacing and eyelets. Her use of pretty border prints makes the dress look really special. Watching this part of the show made me want to locate my oldie but goodie Dritz Eyelet Plier tool. I'm absolutely positively positive I have it . . . somewhere!!! In the meantime I'm putting the orange awl that came with my Brother machine accessories in a prominent place. When you see this show you'll learn how to use this handy tool to help set the eyelets. Ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE and be prepared to learn from great teachers this week on It's Sew Easy TV! IT'S SEW EASY EPISODE 1107 STYLE FOR EVENING NOW SHOWING ONLINE UNTIL FEBRUARY 10 AT NOON EST11/4/2016 This week's online It's Sew Easy TV show features styles for an evening out and about, or something to wear while lounging around Home Sweet Home. Louis starts the show with some stunning embroidery stitched on one of my favorite machines, the Brother Persona, PRS 100 Singular Sensation Single Needle Free Arm Embroidery Only Machine. I know that's a long title, but in my opinion this machine is deserving of a standing ovation for all the possibilities it holds for those who seek an affordable embroidery machine with lots of room for growth and optional accessories. With a tubular style arm, this cap capable machine can embroider hard to hoop items both large and small. Take a quick look at what comes with the Persona and you'll see what I mean. I've taught a lot of hands-on classes with the Persona since it was first introduced and each time I use it I am more and more impressed with it's potential. If you want to learn more about this machine I suggest you visit your local Brother dealer for details, prices, and current specials. Back to the show, Louis shares some of his best tips to embroider garments for guys. Be sure to watch the whole segment. You'll see some bling for sure but you'll also see how he matches up designs to create long lines of embroidery and you'll get ideas for embroidering a look for men that is toned down or ready to shine bright at night! In the second part of the show you'll see a segment that is on my list of all time favorites. This episode features Asian influenced pajamas made from Folkwear pattern #145. Once again, this unique pattern line supplies a pattern style that is authentically Asian. You could easily add bands like the ones featured here to basic Pajama pants and tops or consider using this idea for street clothes as well. I used two shades of the same fabric and added embroidered bands using designs selected from a Limited Edition Design Collection produced by Dime. I used this artistic Asian fan design for the pockets. Then I selected this motif for the banded border. When you watch you'll see that the bands are stitched in somewhat of a quilted fashion before the embroidery is added. This is a technique I often use when I want to add embroidery to fabric that easily shows puckers, like the satin you see here. By quilting to a base of flannel essentially I create "planned puckers" and beef up the fabric at the same time so the embroidery has a more stable base. The snap style Border Hoop makes it really easy to embroidery on narrow strips of fabric and it's available for several Brother model machines. On the show you'll hear me say that I like to cut my fabric pieces oversized before embroidering. Then I can stitch the designs, trim the finished piece to fit the pattern, and complete the construction of the garment. Plain fabric is suddenly transformed into a pretty panel with the added embroidery motifs. It's so much fun to make your own original fabric accents with added embroidered bands!!! I must confess, I love days when I can stay in my pajamas. When they look this good there's really no reason to get dressed! You can CLICK HERE to go watch this show from now until noon on November 11th. Be sure to visit the itsseweasytv.com website to download detailed instructions that accompany this set. I'd love to hear your thoughts, feel free to leave your comments below!
IT'S SEW EASY TV SHOW #1106 - STYLING DETAILS: CURRENTLY Airing online until noon (EST) FEbruary 3rd10/29/2016 This online It’s Sew Easy TV show is full of nitty gritty sewing information. Have you ever struggled with setting in a sleeve, stitching zippers, or sewing elastic? These are all basic sewing procedures that are certainly very important and practical to learn if you want to experience successful sewing. You’ll learn how to do it all this week on It’s Sew Easy TV! In part one Kay Whitt demonstrates a step-by-step method for sewing set in sleeves and explains how to start and finish so the sleeve looks smooth and professional. You’ll see that it’s all about the tools and the techniques you need to succeed when sewing sleeves. Take particular notice of the shape of the sleeve as you watch this show. If you look closely you’ll see that the cap of the sleeve looks slightly skewed. This is truly the way a well fitting sleeve is supposed to look. If you look at a well-drafted sleeve pattern you will see that the curve is slightly deeper on the front side of the sleeve. There are some exceptions to this rule but this factor is particularly prevalent on sleeve patterns made for woven fabrics. I am careful to look for this when selecting a pattern. It indicates a sleeve that will look and fit properly when finished. Kay and I, along with blogger Caroline Critchfield (in the center of this photo), had some interesting conversations when we were all at the studio together. You can look forward to meeting Caroline next season! Among the things we talked about was the importance of good instructions, especially for smaller pattern companies. Dig into one of Kay's patterns and you won’t be disappointed, she is careful to guide you each step of the way with clear and sensible directions. By the way, her pattern line at Serendipity Studio is full of great looking garments for both beginners and intermediate sewing enthusiasts. Next you will learn from Judy Kessigner as she sews a zipper in a jacket using a fast and easy method. She will have you saying, “What did we do before there was glue???” Rebecca appears for a short segment, showing you yet another basic but essential sewing step, as she demonstrates her method for sewing elastic with the three step zigzag stitch. I could write a book about the benefits of the three step zigzag stitch! Basic but highly versatile, you’ll find this stitch in the menu of most machines whether they are entry level or top of the line. More about zippers! Zippers are a main focus during this show with my friend Heather Valentine guides you through stitching up a color blocked, front zip fleece jacket in the final segment. Heather always makes fashion fun and gives you lots of learning opportunities as she demonstrates some of her favorite sewing tips and tricks. CLICK HERE to go and watch episode 1106. You'll learn a lot of good basic tips and techniques as you learn from It's Sew Easy TV this week!
This show is indeed all about the Stylish girl with darling designs for little and not-so-little girls. You'll see adorable vests (there is a boy style too!), a pretty pleated dress and simple to sew circle skirts just perfect for twirling. Carla Macklin is from Northeast Ohio and the story of how she started on the road to designing children's patterns is quite interesting. You will want to visit her website, www.clevercharlotte.com to read the rest of the story and browse through her beautiful pattern line. I met her at the studio as we both taped on the same day. I wasn't familiar with her pattern line but was impressed with the beautiful outfits she had. After giving me a little preview of what she was going to present and I knew her segment would be popular not only with those who sew children's wear but everyone else who sews garments! You'll learn some great techniques for lining and finishing garments, especially vests, when you watch her segment. Funny but true story, just last week I was admiring some new children's pattern in my local big box fabric store - would you believe they were Clever Charlotte patterns?!? Her Olivine pattern, the pretty pink dress seen above is now on my "must stitch" list! Next up, you'll see a short style segment by Deb Barcello with a neat finish for circular hems. These hems are always a challenge to sew and oftentimes they need to be applied to thin and sometimes fussy fabrics. Deb's technique is a good one for stitching on a standard sewing machine. If you have the Brother MuVit foot you'll benefit form the way this foot smooths out fine fabrics. Without this foot you can consider stitching through a layer of lightweight water-soluble stabilizer. In yet another short style tip segment you'll see Angela Wolf stitch a twin needle hem on a knit. For even more knit tips I invite you to CLICK HERE and download a Free letsgosew tip sheet for knits. In the final segment of the show Deb Barcello returns for a full segment. Deb sews and teaches at Cattels Sew & Vac in New Jersey. She knows how to make a machine produce pretty things, that's for sure! Her circle skirts are something you can easily whip up in an afternoon. Her tip for making one-way prints work with this circular style is and easy answer to a perplexing problem when mixing prominent prints with a pattern that is normally cut in one piece. Interestingly, this summer I met Deb while teaching at the annual Brother convention. We started a casual conversation and it was quite by accident that I learned she had recently taped at the It's Sew Easy TV studio. Her enthusiasm was inspiring. If you are in her neck of the woods be sure to pay her a visit! Don't forget to check out the instructions that go along with each of these segments. You'll find them all on the It's Sew Easy TV website. Be sure to visit the website for the fabric sponsor, Ink and Arrow. They have some really cute fabrics that would make each of the garments from this show look spectacular. Ready to go and watch the show? CLICK HERE and enjoy show #1105!
IT'S SEW EASY SHOW #1104: PERSONALIZED STYLE - Now showing online till noon EST January 20th10/17/2016 Yes! You can customize, personalize, and create your own individual style! Find out how this week on the It's Sew Easy online TV show. Eileen Roche teaches you all about transforming a T-shirt from plain and basic to embroidered and beautiful, using your embroidery machine and a standard 5-inch X 7-inch hoop. You'll learn to work with templates, see how to align designs, and line up motifs with a stand-alone laser called the PAL. You'll gather up some "happy hooping" techniques with some tips for using a kitchen assistant you may already have in your pantry. This mixture of tips and tricks will help you stitch fantastic new T-shirts with styles and color combinations that flatter YOU, and work along with your wardrobe basics for great looking casual wear. See all the gorgeous samples in the photo below: Next you'll see a mini segment with Angela Wolf. She'll show you how better buttons create a whole new look for almost any garment and she'll inspire you with re-styled blazers embellished with nothing more than new buttons. I admit I am a bit of a button collector. I also love to make covered buttons with added embellishment from embroidery or decorative stitches. CLICK HERE and you'll find a FREE tip sheet with more ideas for making covered buttons. In the last segment Rebecca Kemp Brent creates beautiful monograms with basic computer fonts and simple sewing machine stitches. Monograms never go out of style. Rebecca demonstrates a super simple method for generously sized satin stitched appliqué letters. You can sew these with any standard zig zag machine. Use these ideas to stitch statement pillows or monogram and personalize anything else your heart desires. In fact, she is using a method I personally adopted a long time ago. I've satin stitched all sorts of shapes with this two-step technique. CLICK HERE and you'll find a FREE tip sheet showing various presser foot options, along with suggestions and photos for savvy satin stitching. Being an embroidery aficionado Rebecca also shows some software options for machine embroidered appliquéd lettering. If you are looking for software programs that are rich with Monogram and applique lettering options you may want to check out what Brother has to offer. There are software programs to fit your level of expertise and your budget. CLICK HERE to explore a bit more. Are you ready to go and watch the show? CLICK HERE. This show will run from October 14 to October 21. Enjoy! It's Sew Easy Tv - EPISODE 1103 Stylish Home: Now showing online until noon EST January 13th10/8/2016 This episode is all about creating and crafting custom items for your Home Sweet Home. In this so you'll learn how to make smocked pillows with a modern look, make an inspiring wall hanging, and add some whimsy to the sewing room too! Next to a fresh coat of paint, pillows are probably the least expensive and easiest way to update a room. They can be detailed and intricate or fast and easy but one thing is for sure, they don't require much fabric! This show features several very different and interesting styles you can make yourself. At the end of this post I'll share one of my personal favorite quick pillow projects. But first let's take a look at what you'll see on this show. At the start of the show Cheryl Sleboda makes colorful, patterned pillows using an easy smocking technique. If you find hand work relaxing you will enjoy making one of these. Next there is a short style segment with tips for sewing tricky fabrics presented by Heather Valentine. Heather and I met a couple years ago on the set of It's Sew Easy. A talented and energetic blogger, teacher, and "maker," her style reflects her bright and cheerful personality and her projects are always fun and stylish. In this show Heather combines unusual materials to create a handy caddy for her studio. Hint . . . after you watch her short tip segment you'll think differently next time you visit the hardware store! The last full segment of the show features Lisa Shepard Stewart. She shows how to create simple, yet inspiring wall art using earthy batiks and warm, plush wool fabric. Her tips and ideas can be applied to many different projects so you'll want to make sure and watch till the very end of the show. Are you read to go watch? CLICK HERE to watch show 1103 until noon on October 14th. If you're looking for a way to showcase techniques on a simple pillow panel CLICK HERE for project instructions that may help jump start your imagination. Enjoy! STYLISH ACCESSORIES: IT'S SEW EASY TV EPISODE 1102 Now showing online until noon EST January 6th10/1/2016 This week's online episode will help you jazz up your closet with items that are easy to stitch from start to finish! Learn how to make your own shoes, add style to an ordinary blouse, and make a roomy, stylish shopping tote. If you have been sewing for a long time you may think you have made just about everything under the sun . . . but how about shoes?!? Until now there really wasn't an easy way to make your own. Dritz Espadrille Shoe kits have changed all that. Not only are they easy to make, the possibilities for embellishment are endless. Tip: You may want to check the sizing against a similar style shoe. My friend Cindy Hogan made a pair and said these run a little on the small side. Consider using a favorite embroidery design and making a matching purse from the same fabric. The next part of the show is a short style tip segment where I show and tell a little about embellishing blank blouses. I love to hunt for plain white and other light colored blouses while shopping and usually opt for those that are linen or a linen blend for this technique. A bit of trim, machine embroidery or decorative stitches elevates an ordinary blouse to a work of art, don't you agree? Be sure to CLICK HERE and download the tip sheet for this when you visit the project section of the It's Sew Easy TV website. My friend Kim Montagnese closes out the show with her "cake and donut tote!" You'll hear the rest of the story when you watch but seriously this tote is pretty, practical and also ripe with opportunities for embellishment. You'll see Kim's free motion artistry performed on the Brother Dream Fabric Frame but there are many ways you can add interest to a tote like this. Even a pretty printed fabric combined with a coordinating solid would work. Let me know if you come up with your own version. I would love to see it and I know other readers would too! Okay, are you ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE to see episode 1102. Enjoy!
1101 – Style on the Edge The first episode of this new online series starts with some great basics and ends with some inspirational ideas for using border prints in interesting ways. This show begins with my friend Rebecca teaching seam finishes for a variety of sewing situations. Sleek seam finishes are a sure sign of quality construction in any sewing project. Even if you have sewn for years you are sure to learn seam finishing techniques you have never tried. I suggest you pay close attention the first time you watch, and then make some samples while watching the segment a second time. Next up, you'll see me present a quick style tip for embroidering on knits. I used one of my favorite techniques, reverse appliqué. This time around it is done entirely in the hoop using a beautiful Brother embroidery design that's ideal for this reverse appliqué technique. CLICK HERE to download the design I used. It's currently offered for Free on the brothersews website. You'll also see a few different stabilizers in this short segment, including a very unique wash out type of stabilizer called Terial Magic™. CLICK HERE to download a Free Tip sheet with more information. * * * * * * * * In the third part of the show you'll be treated to some "oh so pretty" dresses created by Gretchen Hirsch, and get ideas for using border print fabrics. CLICK HERE to watch It's Sew Easy show number 1101 until noon on Friday September 30th. Enjoy!
Just a note, you can purchase the entire 1100 series directly from the It's Sew Easy TV website and watch all thirteen programs at your leisure. CLICK HERE for ordering information. Are you interested in the possibility of sewing for dollars??? This week's online show includes timely advice for moneymaking opportunities using your own personal sewing & machine embroidery skills and equipment. Anyone who has sewn or embroidered for profit at one time or another knows that it's serious business but it can be a lot of fun too! Episode 1013 is the last in the series of Pathways to Sewing, ending with ideas for turning your hobby into a full or part time profession. You'll see my friend Paulette Bell up first. Paulette is an embroidery expert, running her own embroidery business for many years. I know her to be a savvy businesswoman and a creative, award winning embroidery artist too! Take a look at her "Kentucky Derby" hat below. She placed second in a contest sponsored by an industry giant, Impressions magazine. Hats are one of Paulette's many specialties. In this segment she'll show you how to hoop and stitch hats for fun or for profit. Watch how easy it is to add crystal embellishments to virtually anything you can touch with an iron. You can choose to add iron on rhinestones one at a time with a traditional hot fix wand but this system gets the job done fast! With this system you can add accents in a fraction of the time it takes to fuse one by one. Think how much fun it would be to add glittering accents to party decor and more!!! Did you know there is a whole website dedicated to this incredible machine? Not to mention a fan base that has taken the sewing and crafting world by storm! CLICK HERE to learn more about this multifaceted machine. The series concludes with advice for turning your hobby into a profitable adventure! Last but not least, learn how to start your own home-based sewing business from someone who has climbed the ladder and reached the top! Angela Wolf literally wrote the book on this subject. In the final episode of this series she shares her do's and don'ts based on real life experience. Click on the photo below to order the book and begin your own journey as a successful sewing entrepreneur! Are you ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE. And, don't forget to access all of the information provided by the experts when you log in to the project section of the It's Sew Easy TV website.
Such is life, for most of us it's a struggle to find fashions that fit. Oftentimes we are forced on an endless trek from store to store and dressing room to dressing room, all in search of finding something that "works." When shopping gets frustrating I find myself saying, "if I had spent this time sewing I would not only have the satisfaction of a custom sewn garment, I would have enjoyed the journey from start to finish. Many of us don't time to make our entire wardrobe but with a bit of know how, some determination, and a willingness to experiment, you can stitch some fashion basics and begin filling your closet with clothes that fit! It's Sew Easy TV exists to help you on that journey to find fashion and fit!!! In this episode you'll see me making one of my favorite projects . . . a fashion forward Boho style skirt. It's a skirt that is based on personal measurements. The fit is flattering and the sewing process is easy and fun. You'll find me using two instruments to make beautiful music here, the sewing machine and serger working in harmony to sew with both speed and precision. I am convinced that a serger is essential for constructing garments that look hand-crafted instead of "homemade." If you have one you know what I mean and if you don't you owe it to yourself to go shopping. CLICK HERE to start by researching various Brother models. You'll find that the one you see on the show is highly affordable and easy to use. The serger makes super quick work out of gathering the tiers and clean finishing the raw edges on this simple skirt style. An alternative method would be traditional gathering, which is certainly possible but does add time and effort. In the show you'll get the basic steps but be sure to visit the It's Sew Easy TV website to download complete instructions. You'll find my formula for making this skirt in virtually any size with what I believe is just the right amount of fullness. Plus, you'll see how to crinkle the fabric for a Boho broomstick style skirt. In the second half of the show Angela gives a quick tip for flat felled seams and then proceeds to give you alteration tips for customizing a pattern for jeans or pants. This is an area where Angela specializes. You'll learn a lot about important width and length adjustments in this segment. Great jean patterns are hard to find. You'll find a link to her pattern line when you download the accompanying instructions for this segment. Are you ready to go watch the show? CLICK HERE to watch Episode 1012, currently airing until September 16th.
This week continues the series highlighting pathways that lead to sewing. When I talk to fellow sewing enthusiasts I am always intrigued by the many different types of sewing they choose as favorites. Why we all begin to sew is yet another part of the story. You may have started stitching because you wanted something you couldn't find anywhere. Perhaps you had a relative or dear friend who got you started. For me, it all started in junior high Home Ec. It was there that I experienced the wonder of starting with nothing and ending with something! It just seemed amazing to put pieces and parts together with a needle and thread and end up with something I could wear. Although I am an enthusiast of anything fiber related I still put garment sewing at the top of my "favorites" list. Speaking of garment sewing, the first segment of the show features Kay Whitt of Serendipity Studio. She is an extraordinary talent and a very sweet person. Her pattern line is truly unique. You be treated to some of her great garment ideas in this episode. Check out Kay's pattern line at Sewserendipity.com. In the next segment Angela Wolf gives a lesson for twin needle hemming on knits.This is such an important technique if you want your knit tops to mimic ready-to-wear. Speaking of knits, you may want to check out the letsgosew.com tip sheet for sewing and embroidery on knits. You can CLICK HERE to download my Free PDF tip sheet. Looking for some great knit top patterns? Click on the image below to go to Angela's site and see her patterns for knit tops and more! Knit top patterns from angelawolfpatterns.com In the final segment you'll see Sewing and Embroidery expert June Mellinger get a jacket makeover courtesy of Angela. June's jacket is beautiful but certainly needs some help to be flattering and wearable. Watch as Angela de-constructs the jacket and shows you what's inside. She will tell you how to update the style and fit of a favorite jacket you can't bear to part with.
Are you ready to watch the show? CLICK HERE to watch episode 1011 of It's Sew Easy TV, airing during the week of September 2-9, 2016. You are in for a real treat this week with the online version of the It's Sew Easy PBS TV show! Just take a look at the topics presented by these expert educators:
There is no better way to dress up your decor than with custom crafted pillows. Since most pillows use only a small amount of fabric you can splurge on design quality materials and unique elections in the home dec department. Pillows are also the perfect canvas for trying new techniques. Below you will find links to a wide variety of pillow projects (complete instructions available in PDF format), currently posted on the Brothersews website:
I think you'll agree that each episode this week is packed full of ideas and inspiration for your next home dec or other designer style sewing project! Drop me a line and let me know if you decide try any of these techniques for yourself.
CLICK HERE to watch the current airing of It's Sew Easy episode 1010. This week you’ll be treated to a variety of sewing topics, from beginning to more advanced. The show starts with Janet Pray's tips for fast factory sewing methods and proper sewing ergonomics. Watch this show and you are guaranteed to experience more comfort at the sewing machine. You can CLICK HERE to watch this show on KS Productions YouTube channel. Lynn Lunoe is next, with a very informative and important primer for essential sewing accessories and machine attachments. Lynn probably has more sewing knowledge in her pinky finger than many have in their whole hand and she is always willing to share her expertise. After watch this segment you will want to explore your own accessories and then put them to good use. In the next segment you'll be treated to a skirt that really is beginner style, presented by my Heather Valentine of the sewingloft.com. Heather is a skilled educator with a flair for upbeat styles. She designs projects that are fashionable and fun to make. You'll love her tutorial for this skirt, especially as she details the steps for perfect blind stitching on hems. Be sure to download her instructions so you can make you own. CLICK HERE to watch this show on KS Productions YouTube channel. This episode is available online from May 20 to May 27.
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Welcome!
Each week at noon a new show airs online at itsseweasytv.com. This blog features a preview of each weekly show. Author:Joanne Banko Archives
March 2021
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