Sometimes it's a challenge to find the supplies you need, so how about searching for something you already have and making something new out of it?

For this project I took a junk jean pocket, made another pocket from scraps, added them together, and turned it into a sewing "chatelaine." This is something you can hang around your neck and have much needed notions ready for the task at hand.

Here are the basic supplies you'll need:

• Two 8-inch squares of cotton print for front pocket.
• One 8-inch square of pre quilted fabric for back pocket.
• One old jean's pocket, cut with 1/2-inch additional seam allowance beyond the finished pocket for outer pocket.
• 3/8-inch grosgrain ribbon approximately 28-inches long.
• Optional narrow lace trim to add to pocket.
  

Note: If your pocket is larger than approximately 6-inches wide X 6-inches long, you'll need to cut larger squares for your front and back pockets. 

Steps to make:

1. Round off bottom corners on each of the 8-inch squares.
2. Place cotton print pieces with right sides together and sew a small seam along the straight top edge. Turn to the right side and press.
3. Hem or bind the quilted piece, making sure it measures the same size as the printed cotton piece.
4. Turn under the raw edges of the denim pocket and center on the cotton print. Sew in place, adding lace trim if desired. Note: If you have a hard time sewing through the denim, use a permanent fabric glue to attach denim pocket piece.
5. Sew additional pocket lines on the denim pocket to form narrow channels to hold small tools, or leave it as one large pocket, your choice! I sewed narrow pockets on mine but the thread color blends in so well you can't see it.
6. Place front and back right sides together and sew a 1/2-inch seam along sides and bottom. Trim curves slightly, finish raw edges with zig zag or overcast, and turn right side out.
7. Tuck 1-inch of each ribbon end between pocket layers at each side. Securely stitch ribbon in place to form a loop to hang around your neck. See example below:

You're finished! Here is what the piece looks like on the back side.

Enjoy!

Day nine includes two sewing artists and friends of Let's go Sew. Take a look at their handiwork with quilts both big and small.

This one is from my friend Sue McGurk. What  a perfect way to say "Welcome Spring!" Let's see what she has to say about her quilt.

Here’s a little wall hanging I made for a swap....tried to be a little springy and bright to forget about the winter dreariness!   I’m so happy to see a little sun today!
Hope you are getting a lot of sewing done.  I am 😀​
 Sue McGurk

Next we have a couple creative quilts from Diane. Looks like her loved ones are in for something special with each one of these one-of-a-kind quilts. Thanks for sharing these Diane!

I think this will wrap it up for a bit unless I get some more photos and stories submitted. 
Thanks to all who sent in such wonderful pics and stories! We'll have to do this again sometime soon!

Please leave your comments and questions for Sue, or for Diane below.

Hello Sewing Friends! I must say, you have all been very busy making beautiful things. It's been a pleasure to share them with the Let's Go Sew Sewing community!

Today's Sew & Tell is another wonderful quilt!

This colorful I SPY quilt came to me without a name. I hope the artist will get in touch so we can congratulate this person by name. I only know it is Tyler's Grandmother :-) Read the artist's description in purple.

UPDATE! This creative quilt was designed and stitched by Nancy Bell from Pennsylvania. Congratualtions on your labor of love expressed with stitches Nancy!

Hope you are enjoying this great show and tell! I know I am!

Today my friend Jan Dees (Jana Designs) from Washington proves that staying inside is putting a real dent into her stack of UFOs! This should motivate all of us to tackle those unfinished objects.

I'll let her tell you all about her sewing adventures in her own words shown in purple.

​Then I finished a quilt in progress since December for my daughter-in-law’s brother. ​This baby quilt is long overdue as Michael will be 3 years old this summer.  The pattern is Anita Good Design Playhouse of applique animals, but I used only penguins. 

Jan sent this to me a few days ago so I wouldn't be surprised if she has a whole bunch of UFOs all finished up by now :-)

Thanks for sharing these great photos and telling us how your're making the best of things. You are an inspiration to us all!!!

Please leave comments and questions for Jan below.

On day six I have yet another chance to share something from a local, longtime friend. Meet Pat Guerin! Pat regularly attends a local monthly sewing club meeting where I've played "hostess" for a long time.

Over the years, Pat has amazed both myself and all who attend with her incredible masterpieces. They've ranged from childre's items, to quilts, to formal wear, hand worked wallhangings, accessory items, and so many other things too numerous to mention! She executes everything to a high degree of perfection but presents it as though it is all so effortless.

After experiencing the loss of both her Mom and her Dad, Pat has put her hands to good work making lasting quilt gifts for family members, and for herself. Today, you have the chance to see see her in progress "precious memories" quilts which she describes in her own words in purple below:

"In total there are four quilts ( three brothers share one house)."

Update! Below is a photo of Pat's finished quilt label. I know Pat was filled with emotion as she created this label on her computer and printed it on EQ Printables fabric. It's obvious Pat's quilts were stitched with lots of love. These quilts are a glimpse into the story of her Mom and Dad's life together. I'll let Pat tell you a littel more in her own words in purple:

"My folks were very simple people , both very creative. Mom was a homemaker most of her 87 years, crochet, needlework, minimal  sewing. Dad  served in the army out of high school, married his high school sweetheart, was a mechanic, welder extraordinaire! He welded until the day he died at age 89. They were married almost 69 years!"

Thank you Pat for sharing your handiwork and sharing your heart with us as well!

Won't you join me in congratulating Pat on her incredible masterpieces?!? Please leave your comments and questions for Pat below.

My Friend Kim Dodick is the star attraction for today's Sew & Tell Show & Tell! Kim started embroidering not too, too long ago and has used her creative skillls to stitch so many gorgeous things. I have the privilege of seeing her stunning creations on a regular basis "in person." Today I get to share some of her handiwork with all of you!

Just look at these wonderful embroidered pillows!

Here's a little closer look.

Scripture on the back makes these oh so special.

Kim tells me the designs are from Embroidery Library. She and added a few of my favorite Bible verses on the pillow backs. This set was a gift of love to some special friends who needed an uplift during these trying times.

Wow! I'm certain these pillows will carry them through difficult days and be a reminder of Kim's loving heart for a long time to come!

Please leave any questions or comments you have for Kim below.

UPDATE! Curious about where these gorgeous designs came from? Kim tels me they are a desing collection form Embroidery Library. I have no affilitation with that company but I have infact purchased some of their beautiful designs.

Birds featured on Kim's Pillows are from a design pack collection called U.S. Birds and Blooms. They're available in four different size collections beginning with 4" X 4" hoops and going up to 7" X 11.8." It lloks like they are also available separately if you click on each individual bird. Here is a direct link to the pack on Embroidery Library if you're interested in more information: https://bit.ly/2WSzJZw

Today's feature artist is Caroline Booth, the Needle Quirks Queen!

In her note to me she says she's making the best of being cooped up and it's obvious she is getting lots accomplished in her sewing space! 

Having corresponded with Caroline for a while now, I know that pillow making is a passion for her. She is especially gifted at design them in a multitude of interesting ways.Pillow making is truly one of her specialties! This one is designed using all built-in designs and features on her Brother Luminaire.

The next photo is hopping with happy thoughts and full of great ideas. 

I'll let her describe these delightful projects in her own words.

"I wanted to share a fun little fabric box that I learned how to make this week while “locked in” my happy place. I wanted a rustic look for this one to somewhat mimic a vintage wooden box so I used a painter’s canvas to construct the outer box. Peltex 71F gives the box it’s structure and the interior fabric is a nice quilting cotton. The Peltex is also used to give the handles some structure and they are attached to the box with snap rivets.

​This was such a fun project to make that I plan on making several for Christmas gifts using holiday themed fabrics. The pattern actually calls for two fat quarters so it doesn’t require much fabric and it’s a fairly quick project to complete, depending on how you choose to embellish it."

Thank you Caroline! I know I speak for everyone in saying that we're so happy you shared all these with us.

Please leave comments and questions for Caroline below.

Quilting is a popular way to pass the time in your sewing space. My friend Clovis Perkins has been putting together pretty blue patches to make a twin size quilt.

Look close and you'll see some of the blocks feature the churn dash pattern. This quilt block is made up of half square triangles, strip pieced squares, and solid squares. While it looks tricky to construct it goes together without having to piece any points.

Clovis tells me she is making this for the "blue room" in her house. She has the desire to enter the finished quilt in her local Lake Couty fair this year. I've already deemed this one a winner! Her fabric selection is really an interesting mix, the piecing looks perfect, and it looks like she's well on her way to getting this off the sewing table and on the bed!

Thanks Clovis! I'm so happy you shared your handiwork with us! 

Tip: The well known and highly respected Missouri Star Quilt Company has a nice seven minute YouTube video show how to put a churn dash block together using 10" layer cake squares. CLICK HERE to watch.

Laugh for the day, while I sometimes watch YouTube videos at 1 & 1/2 or 2X speed, I like to watch Jenny Doan at three-quarter speed :-) I guess her speed and my speed are just a little out of sync!

A blank blog page? How crazy is that? Well, it's only blank today. I'm asking my Let's Go Sew friends to send in their project pics to share here. Watch as every day this page fills up with projects and pictures shows up. This page will feature both finished and unfinished projects. I can't wait to see this page bursting with your creations! Be sure to check back for updates during the week of March 23 - 28, and maybe even longer. I'll start the ball rolling tomorrow with the first project photos.

My friend Jan O'Malley starts off this week full of show and tell with her in progress colorful quilt. Seeing the pieces and parts come together is a fun part of the process, agree?!?

Jan describes her quilt in her own words, seen in purple. My words are in black.

I'll add white columns up each side first.  Then I'll add more rows around the 4 sides before quilting.  I ordered fabric online that I'm waiting for, for the backing, border and binding. 

The baby is due soon so I'm sure Jan is busily working to finish this up. Thanks for sharing this cheerful quilt Jan! Your colors are perfectly enchanting and they seem to shout happy spring!!!

UPDATE! For those who are interested in the design collection Jan tells me it is a set from Designs by juju. Here is a direct link to the Farm Applique Set: https://bit.ly/2UdRZef

Another UPDATE! Here are a few more photos showing Jan's quilt and quilt label, plus a bonus photo with beautiful baby Cecilia on her new quilt!

Here is my friend Jan holding her fabulous finished quilt!

Highlights From My Visit to Lake Farmparks 2020 Quilt Show

Farmpark bills itself as a family-oriented science and cultural center devoted to agriculture and farming. Each year they host a beautiful quilt show, housed in the exhibit hall that includes a gift shop, theater, cafe, and more, all in a functioning barn complete with "dairy parlor" with real cows in residence. There are many activities held throughout the year on this 235-acre working farm known as Lake Metroparks Farmpark.

The Flight of the Eagles quilt you see above is just one of many masterpieces that decorated the vas space at Farmpark this year.

I try to never miss this show and I often take a class from one of the local or celebrity instructors they bring in from other areas of the country. The show this year was smaller than most, but I didn't mind that at all. I found much to make my jaw drop and left feeling good about being part of the stitching community at large.

I thought I'd share a few of my favorite picks from this awe inspiring display. I wasn't too particular about noting "winners" but you can view the entire list HERE.

This first place ribbon quilt was massive! It had some of the most incredibly detailed motifs I have ever seen! I neglected to photograph the label but this was a Hunter's Star pattern and it was machine quilted. Take a look at the close-ups in the slideshow below.

The message on this small but sweet quilt was so touching. It's obvious Ginny put a lot of love into this!

Another ribbon winner, this quilt was entered in the category of Individual Mixed Techniques. Read the label below for another sweet sewing story.

This giraffe quilt touched a soft spot in my own heart. My Mom would have loved a quilt like this! She had a big heart for all animals and somewhere along the way started collecting giraffes. I even made her a robe once that was pre-quilted fabric printed with various safari animals and included giraffes.    

I also thought the layout of this quilt was very interesting and unique. Amazing how simple squares can turn into such a work of art!

Just one word for this one . . . beautiful!!! the colors and shapes were so perfectly executed. This quilt could brighten anyone's day!

Yet another colorful quilt perfectly stitched. Batiks are my favorite quilt fabrics by far. Anyone else here a batik freak????

The photo of this quilt from the Art Images category in no way does this amazing wall hang the justice it deserves. Titled Early Morning Mist, honestly, I could not stop staring at it!

​The combination of patchwork, appliqués, painted scenery, and 3-D accents made this a mesmerizing work of art.  In particular, I thought the tiny blocks framing the piece were a stroke of genius. My "make it match" brain would have opted for something solid but I think you'll agree that the patchwork here was a very ingenious and artistic choice.

The realistic rendition of this quilted Great Blue Heron make it look like it could take flight at any moment! I think animals are some of the hardest things to represent in fabric, but this quilter was right on target in scale, size, and color in her appliquéd creation, don't you think? 

While I don't know any of the other quilt artists from all the photos featured here, this stunning work of art one was created by two dear friends of mine. Read the story behind the quilt below:

Isn't sewing something special one of the best ways to give love in a tangible way?

Yet another "display only" quilt, meaning it was not entered for judging, this masterpiece was made by a man who wanted to honor his family and their homestead. I'll let you read the story for yourself below: 

Here is a close-up with detailed family history.

What a unique way to honor his family heritage!

The last three of my favorite picks are obviously traditional. Although I appreciate every style represented in a quilt show such as this one, I'm always drawn to the warmth of these classic quilts and these are the ones I would most want to mimic for our own home.

I hope you enjoyed this little tour of quilts!  to my knowledge each and every one of this was crafted by a skilled Ohio quilter. I'm already eagerly awaiting the dates for next year! In closing, I'd like to give a shout out to Farmpark Quilts organizer extraordinaire, Andrea Pasquale, who makes this show spectacular each and every year!

Now, if you have any quilting stories you'd like to share, I'd love to see them posted here!!!

Sewing has been a fulfilling part of my life for many years now! Heartfelt thanks to my Mom for encouraging my endeavors and giving me my first big break.
 
To my high school home economics teacher Miss Pierce, if you're out there, I owe you many thanks too! You never told me I "couldn't" make something. Even when it was a crazy project like a full length fake fur coat my mom ended up wearing as a bathrobe years later! You never said that's too hard, try something easier, you just smiled and let me muddle my way through, learning valuable lessons along the way.

This set was originally valued at $165! Drawing will take place on Friday April 9th at 6PM Eastern Standard time. Offer good for USA residents only. I will email the winner on Saturday April 10th. 

UPDATE! I was able to draw not one but tow winners. Congratulations to Gail and Anita for winning the It's Sew Easy TV DVD collection! It was a joy to read your stories!!! Please feel free to keep adding to the ones below.

Hello Sewing Friends! I recently had the chance to be a guest on the Brother sponsored Facebook show hosted by Angela Wolf. My friend Emily Thompson was there too. For an hour we had a great time chatting about all things sewing related, visiting with everyone who popped into the show, sharing ideas, and having a few laughs.
 
There's a link to this show at the end of this post but one of the topics bantered about was that of favorite sewing tools. My first thoughts were the big tools, our modern machines that make almost anything possible. But then I swung to the opposite extreme and my thoughts went to semingly insignificant tools found outside the notion’s aisle. None of these are earth shatteringly new, but they may be new to you, so I thought I'd share a few of my favorites.

One of my "go to" tools has been in my sewing space for a few decades. I use this pair of small, smooth (non-serrated) needle nose pliers as a griping tool.

I think my Snap-On brand E 708 model might be a collectable now but I'm sure you can find something similar from a good tool supplier. Here's what I use them for most often:

• The pliers save my fingertips. The small, smooth tips allow me to grab threads tails when ripping stitches.
• They're wonderful for removing bar-tacks and other stubborn stitches while prepping for alterations.
• Perfect for pushing or pulling hand sewing needles through stubborn fabrics. Sometimes I'll put a piece of cloth between the pliers if I need to pull on something rough and I don't want to damage the smooth surface of the pliers.
• They're ideal for pulling up basting stitches sewn for gathering.

Truly, any time you need to get a grip on the tiniest of things, these come in handy. This tool takes top place top on my list, within arm's reach whenever I am sewing anything, cos we all know you rip what you sew!

P.S. If you need help in your search, ​I saw a pair of jewelry pliers that look very similar. Here is the link: 5-inch chain nose pliers.

Eyebrow trim and shape razors work as an alternative to a seam ripper on some occasions. 

Simply spread apart your seam and gently nip the stitches with the serrated blade. This technique is especially helpful for ripping seams sewn with a super short stitch length.

I love this little lambswool duster for dusting off the outer casing of my sewing machine and serger. 

I use bristle brushes made for sewing machines for cleaning out the real nitty gritty lint, but this is great for a quick polish of the outside casing. Keep in mind, the less dust there is on the outside of the machine the less will migrate to somewhere inside, like tension mechanisms. The soft nature of the wool means you won't have to worry about scratches. Again, I've had this little gem for years. I think I picked it up on a trip to Amish country but similar ones are easy to find on Amazon. From time to time I wash mine with baby shampoo to freshen it up.

My handy dandy lint roller gets used every day. I clean my rotary mat with this, use it to pick up stray threads from ripped stitches, clean up embroidery designs after final trimming, etc., etc., etc. I also like to use it on the wrong side of fabric pieces before inserting lining, so no dark or unsightly thread shows through when I'm finished. If I'm sewing something fuzzy it is essential as a clean up tool for whatever I'm wearing too!

I keep this on a clip so I can hang it on my closet rack and always know where it is at.

The last item for today is tape. Specifically, low tack painter's tape which I use for a dozen things, including marking the wrong side of fabric to avoid confusion, and then my ever-present roll of 3M™ Transpore™ medical tape for in-the-hoop embroidery projects. 

The medical tape tears easily and works well to hold fabric, zippers, and such temporarily while stitching. In most cases it is sticky enough to stay in place but removes easily. Speaking of removing, never let tape stay in one place for very long or the glue may transfer to your fabric and leave a permanent residue.

Next to sewing and craft stores, I love to browse hardware stores and office supply establishments. We all know that a tool by any other name is still a tool! Whatever it's named and wherever it came from is of no consequence. As long as it works it can go right into the notions drawer along with our other sewing must haves.

I'm sure many of you have some genius ideas for using unconventional tools as useful items in your own sewing space. Please share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd all love to learn your best kept, unconventional sewing tool secrets! If you like, you can CLICK HERE and send me a photo of your favorites. I'll do my best to update the post with your tips and your photos too.

Below, you'll find the video with all the sewing chit chat and more tips for making the most of your machines. Enjoy!

If you love to sew, chances are you're always looking for ways to make your sewing time more efficient and more enjoyable.

​Today we'll focus on preparing patterns with ten tips to help you get set for your next sewing project.

1. Multi-size patterns are wonderful for "multi-size" figures. However, it can be confusing when you are cutting them out and transitioning from one size to another. I suggest highlighting your selected size(s) multi-size with a highlighter marker. Use the marker to trace over all the lines, taking care to use a piece of protective paper underneath as you trace, as markers will bleed through thin pattern paper.

2. For patterns designed for knits, consider tracing main pattern pieces that are designed to cut on a fold, cutting a full pattern. Simply fold a piece of pattern tracing cloth in half, making sure it is large enough for your pattern piece. Place your pattern on the fold and cut. Transfer all marking, notches, etc. Having a full pattern is especially helpful when cutting prints.

3. If you find that you have to sew with designated chunks of time instead of a marathon, prepare you pattern and lay out your fabric so it can relax the day or evening before you plan to cut out. When you do get started the cutting process will seem less tedious with the pattern already prepared. 

4. When trimming pattern tissue you'll get the most accurate sizing by trimming away all of the black outline. Be sure to press pattern tissue with a warm dry iron to remove wrinkles and flatten so the pattern is true to size. Hang pieces from clip or skirt hanger.

5. If your pattern includes multiple languages, highlight your preferred language with highlighter. Then  you can concentrate on the instructions that matter and easily ignore the rest of the words on the paper.

​6. Review pattern instructions before you start. If some of the wording is unfamiliar or the instructions don't make complete sense, now is the time to get help. Reach out to a sewing friend or call the pattern company for guidance. The big three have the following help line numbers:                     

7. As you review the instructions, use paper and pen or pencil to briefly write out each step, thinking about what you can sew and press all at once. Pay attention to the order of sewing pieces as directed in the instructions but make note of anything that can be done out of order to save time and effort. For example, prepare all interfaced pieces at once. Complete small detail items such as belts, belt tabs, pockets, etc., first. That way, when you begin to construct your garment these small and possibly time-consuming pieces will be done, making the rest of the sewing process more streamlined.

8. Make notes during and after making your project and store notes with pattern to record alterations or modifications should you decide to use the pattern again.

9. Store patterns that are true "winners" in a separate location so they're easy to find when you need a quick win with a tried and true success story.​

10. Organize all supplies, pattern, fabric and necessary notions, keeping everything you need together in a box or zipper bag. Be sure to buy all the thread and notions you need at once, so colors match your fabric and you have everything you need when you're ready to start stitching. 
​
I'd love to know if you found any of these ten tips helpful. Feel free to share your own in the comments below. Happy Sewing!

The photo above shows an example of combining decorative stitches for a technique sometimes referred to as stitch stacking. Essentially, it's simply creating a mix of decorative stitches, forming a blend of decorative elements by stitching a line of combination stitches with "purposefully planned" space left in between.  

I originally showed this on It's Sew Easy TV show 1713-2. You can watch the full video on my YouTube channel HERE, and download a coordinating PDF instruction file HERE.

I used some special features in the Brother Dream Machine to ​create these particular combinations. The technique is rather straightforward as you'll see in the paragraphs below. I encourage you to explore the possibilities for this technique by experimenting with features built into your own machine.

Many computerized machines offer the opportunity to add decorative stitches together and then stitch them out either as a single element or continuously as a row. To start, program a decorative stitch followed by a series of straight stitches. Adding in the straight stitches leaves room for you to select another decorative stitch, thread with a second color, and then add single motifs on top of each area where the straight stitches were formed. 

If you don't have the opportunity to add straight spacer stitches, start by sewing a row of decorative stitches and then add additional motifs in a second color on top of or next to the first row. See stiches below for an example.

You can see that this technique gives you the opportunity for creating endless combinations of stitches. The built-in menu of decorative and the capabilites of your personal machine will vary. 

Decorative stitches are found on all but the most basic of machines. If your decorative stitch menu is limited, you can still create some great looks. Take a few minutes to review the tips below and see if they help you create mini embroidery with the capabilities of your own personal machine.

I hope these tips help you get more out of your machine and enjoy using decorative stitches for a mini embroidery effect! I'd love to hear your thoughts and read your comments below.

Over the years my trusty mail carrier Dawn, aka "Barney" in her purple snow suit, has delivered yards of fabric and various supplies to my mailbox and directly to my doorstep. UPS and FedEx also regularly, and carefully place my packages where rain and snow won't spoil them. I appreciate their delivery service and the fact that online offerings mean I can shop in my jammies :-)

Today I thought I would share some simple tips for shopping online. Here goes:

• First of all, buy local whenever you can. Online shopping is great but it’s important to support local businesses and be able to see and touch the fabric. However, there are many products stores simply don't carry and fabric selection can be limited, or non-existent locally.
• Speaking of shoppping local, I'm a big fan of the buy online and pickup in store policy at my local *Joann Fabrics. Sometimes it's easier for me to find what I need on the Joann site, order, and have it waiting for me at the store. In fact, my DH usually does the pick-up for me so I lose none of my precious sewing time at home.

Joann Fabrics has a shop online, pick up in store option. You can click the *link below to learn more.

For all online fabric shopping I recommend the following:

• Look up the return policy before you buy and make sure you can live with it.
• The ability to buy swatches is another asset when buying online. If it's really an important project, or the fabric is pricey it's worth it to play it safe and order a swatch first.
• Don't trust the colors on your computer. You may be pleasantly surprised or sorely disappointed.
• The scale of a pattern is an all important factor. Some sites have a measuring tape, coin, or some other reference so you know how big or small a pattern is in real life.
• Pay attention to fiber content. If it's 100 percent synthetic it could be beautiful, but it could also have an unnatural look that's not as pleasing as natural or blended fibers. I often buy fabric that is a blend of both synthetic and natural fibers for the best of both worlds.
• Be aware of fiber content and care instructions. 100 percent natural fibers often mean more care, possibly needing ironing each time it's washed or perhaps needing dry cleaning. Check the description carefully. Make sure it fits your lifestyle.
• Look for a description of the weight of the fabric and compare to pattern requirements. If you need fabric that drapes make sure it fits this category.
• Sales are great but don't be tempted to overbuy. It's not a bargain if it sits and never gets used.
• Before you click the buy now button check your yardage requirements carefully and be sure to buy just a bit extra, especially if the fabric is likely to shrink. There's nothing worse than not having enough and being unable to purchase more.
• Ask for discounts if you are buying in quantity or you belong to guilds. They may have a special offer for you.

Fabricdotcom, is one of my go to sources for fabric I can't find locally. Note that the link below is an *affiliate link but I will tell you that I've been very happy with the many products I purchased from them over the years. Check  out their current sales by clicking the image below:

Black Friday sale begins at 6:00PM ET on Wednesday 11-27, ends Sunday 12-1, 11:59AM

Feel free to leave a comment and let me know if this post has been helpful for you. Happy Sewing!

P.S. One more way I save online is to use shop through the *Rakuten marketplace. I've been using this for several years and have saved a lot of dollars through this site. No gimmicks, just legitimate savings. Check it out HERE if you like.

Proper pressing produces perfect results every sewing session.

Let me help you press properly with the tips in this post.

In my recent post about It's Sew Easy TV I asked viewers to share some of their favorite tips from watching the show. The topic of pressing popped up in several comments. I thought it would be a timely topic for another post and I'm eager to share some of my favorite tools for pressing.

Update! I have now been using my 200IR for about 18 months. Still the best iron I have ever owned. The new Reliable iron comparable to this one is the 230IR. Learn more HERE on their site.

It all starts with a good, reliable steam iron. No pun intended but I am loving my ​Reliable Velocity 200IR steam iron. Several months ago I received the iron in exchange for a product review. I like it so much I would gladly purchase one just like it.

Aside from the solid weight and smooth ironing surface, my favorite feature is the ability to press with steam even when the iron is on a lower heat setting. If I understand the design correctly, the water is actually heated inside the iron and turns into steam regardless of the temperature of the sole plate. Two steam options (low and high), and standard horizontal as well as vertical steam give me all the features I need to steam my fabric into submission. It does have auto shut off but you can de-activate it if you choose.

Since I can steam at a lower heat, I haven't had any issues with this iron scorching or causing a shine on delicate fabrics. However, if you have another kind of iron and you want to protect your fabric I highly recommend this drawstring style iron cover, aka iron shoe from Bonash. It fits virtually any iron, keeps fusible residue from sticking to your iron surface, protects the bottom of your iron,  and eliminates the need for a press cloth. This little item packs flat and goes with me on every road trip so I can use the hotel iron without fear of transferring anything ugly onto my garments.

The rest of the photos below show my favorite pressing accessories. I use each and every one of them on a regular basis. I've had some of these for so long they're practically antiques but I'll provide links for what you'll find currently available.

My Dritz sleeve roll or Seam Roll is essential for pressing seams on anything that's narrow.  With the rounded edge you are also less likely to see an indent form on the fabric from the edge of the seam. The two different fabric sides are designed to accommodate different pressing temperatures. I'm especially happy I have this tool when I need to press up hems on narrow sleeves, etc.

You'll want to use a pressing ham or Tailor's Ham for any garments with shape. Think darts, hip curves, etc. The last thing you want to do is press a dart flat. Pressing flat causes puckers and spoils the look of a custom crafted garment.

I use a pressing mitt for hard to reach areas and spots that won't lay flat on an ironing board. My Dritz model mitt really does seem to be an antique. I don't see one available any longer but there is a similar product on Amazon. You can click here if you want to research this item for yourself. Perhaps a little hunting will turn up more options.

Another must have is my high quality, ever useful "clapper" from my friend Angela Wolf. I've actually been using one of these for decades, but this USA made treasure is custom-crafted according to Angela's specifications and it truly is the best of the best. Known as a Tailor's Clapper, the magic behind this tool lies in the way the wood absorbs steam, holding it in your fabric instead of having it dissipate into the air. Simply pressing and holding the wood block over your recently steamed fabric area for several seconds (enough time to let the wood cool), flattens, creases, and pounds your fabric into submission like nothing else can. It's amazing the difference this tool can make on everything you sew and press! You can check out Angela's clapper on her website HERE.  Be sure to use discount code JOANNE for a 15% discount!

This combo point presser and clapper is handy, but I find that I only use the point part for pressing as I prefer the handling of a clapper separately. Points of collars and other narrow spots fit right over the narrow pointed tip. While I do have pads that fit over the wood I seldom find it necessary to use them. If I think I need a buffer between the wood and the fabric I simply place a fluffy washcloth over the wood and press away! A google search will lead you to a variety of vendors that offer this item. Check with your local sewing shop to see if they can order something similar for you.

Another pressing tool I use regularly is this sheet of metal marked with accurate measurements. The Dritz Ezy-Hem Gauge has curved markings on one side and straight ones on the opposite side. Simply fold fabric up to the desired line and press the specific depth you need to turn and fold. In addition to taking the place of measuring, pinning and pressing, the metal helps seal in the heat and makes a nice crease.

Dritz makes a larger size of this same tool and it comes in handy for larger garments and many types of home decor sewing, especially curtains and drapes. This one is called the Dritz Drapery Hem Gauge.

If you're looking to improve your sewing projects with better pressing habits, I encourage you to explore the options shown here. I'd love to know if any of these are already in your pressing repertoire as you seek to have Perfect Results Every Sewing Session! Be sure to share your comments below!

Here I am . . . smiling because I'm sewing! and smiling because I just finished taping five new shows at the KS Productions studio last week. I can't spill the beans and tell you what's coming just yet, but I can give you some hints. Later this year you'll see a wide variety of items in these five shows, embroidery splashed on a garment that's traditionally hard to hoop, knit separates with a special technique for tops, something cozy with a really unique embellishment, a soft and silky baby gift with tricks for four perfect corners, and several super quick trims for fun in the sun fashion. When the videos are finally released I'll have lots of photos for you to see, along with detailed instructions for you to follow for each of the five It's Sew Easy TV projects.

Spending time in the green room where we prep for the show, we had great conversations about the wonderful world of sewing, and I do mean world! Lindsey Marsh came all the way from Australia to show viewers how to sew and fit some great feminine fashions. Every other guest had something exciting to show as well! Series 1800 will be something to look forward to with garments, crafts, accessories, and costumes, plus a myriad of tips and techniques to make your sewing easier and more fun than ever before.

When we wrapped up on Friday the dress forms were wrapped till next season too!

Then the kitchen was cleaned . . . a sure sign that all the guests had gone home. The studio went quiet until the next time KS Productions invites instructors into the "make it yourself" world where these shows are made for your enjoyment, entertainment, and learning pleasure. 

Now, are you ready to enter a drawing to win a DVD set of series 1700, the current It's Sew Easy TV series? To be eligible to win all you need to do is leave a comment below, listing one or more tips, tricks, or techniques you've learned from watching the show on PBS, online at www.its seweasytv.com, or on YouTube. 

Drawing will take place on Friday August 9th, 2019. Winner will be notified by email and receive their package of DVDs in the mail. I'll look forward to reading your comments and drawing a winner! Available for USA residents only.

It was my first trip to that part of Michigan. What a picturesque place to meet with Brother staff and bond with fellow Brother bloggers from Stitching Sewcial, the official Brother blog. 

Perhaps you recognize some of the smiling faces. I'm happy to say that prior to the event several of them were already friends of mine. I'm even happier to say that after the event, sewing bound us all together as friends.

Seeking to share some of the "sewing glow" we all took home with us, I'd like to give you all the opportunity to meet these special people too, so I asked each of my "Brother Sisters" to share a bit about their own personal passion for sewing, talk about their specialties, and last but not least and share a tip or two with you! In short, I asked them what they do, how they can help you, and where you can find them for more information. Read on, I promise you'll gain insights and be inspired by each and every one of my talented friends!

​​You may have noticed I placed these in alphabetical order :-) So now I have a question for you, when's the last time you had the chance to spend quality time with like- minded stitchers? Keeping in touch with my Let's Go Sew friends online makes me feel like I always have sewing friends close by but it sure is fun to get together live an in person to swap stitch glitch stories, share our love of sewing, and experience the tie that binds us together!

I pleased to announce the debut of the newest It's Sew Easy TV series! ​ This season It’s Sew Easy is taking things step by step, helping you build skills in many areas of sewing.
Watch Angela Wolf make an on-trend tunic over the course of the season. In addition, you’ll see great gift items, like a pashmina wrap, or glasses case. There are also doll clothes, and fleece coats with strict attention to detail.
 
There’s even a special quilt feature, with starter blocks made into interesting projects outside of standard quilts.

I had the privilege of taping a total of seven segments this time around. CLICK HERE and you'll see that I put together an entire page with instructions and bonus offerings for each of these segments so they're easy for you to access. 

A mix of wearables, home decor, and great items for gift giving make up the seven shows. 

Visit www.itsseweasytv.com to see what's new for the entire series. Be sure to look at the tabs at top of the Home page. You'll find links to important information, including TV listings for your local area.

The entire collection is available in a boxed set of DVDs so you can watch whenever you wish.

Here is a summary of season 1700 and a list of all the instructors you'll see on these 13 shows.

​1701 Trends
Angela Wolf introduces a trendy top, perfect for every occasion, size and style – sew along with eight different lessons this season on a specific element of the top. Kay Whitt sews a cross body bag, and Ebony Love creates this season’s first quilt block
 
1702   Material Girls
Angela Wolf, Ellen March and Ebony Love have some great fabrics choices as they take you through three projects step by step.
 
1703 Dress Up
Joanne Banko makes an original pashmina wrap using trim and embroidery, Meg Healey turns a one-piece dress into two, and June Mellinger whips up version #1 of flying geese.
 
1704 Step Up
Angela Wolf continues the tunic sew along, Reen Wilcoxson provides a tutorial for in the hoop designs, and June Mellinger makes a tablet cover with her flying geese block.
 
1705 Top Details
Michelle Paganini creates unique patches, Caroline Critchfield has a clever sleeve technique, and Sarah Thomas makes flying geese via foundation piecing. 
 
1706 Shape Up
Angela carries tabs on the sleeves of the Sew Along top. Emily Thompson sews an easy circle skirt, and Sarah Thomas creates projects from the flying geese blocks.
 
1707 Size
Emily Thompson shows tricks for doll clothes, Michelle Paganini returns with a tutorial on how to turn an XL men’s t-shirt into a fashion shirt that fits you, and June Mellinger is back with a new block.
 
1708 The Eyes Have It!
Angela adds a cuff trim, Joanne Banko makes a glasses case for guys, and Kay Whitt adds a sunglass pocket to a tote.
 
1709 Decorative Details
Joanne Banko shares trim ideas and more for pillows, Jennifer Stern talks top-stitching, and June Mellinger makes a fabric tray.
 
1710 Step by Step Garments
Angela Wolf shows and alternate neckline and Joanne Banko tailors a trendy fleece jacket.
 
1711 Quilt Along
Angela Wolf adding the hem to the top, Joanne Banko has coasters form the sewing and embroidery side of the machine, and Ebony Love has her version of the flying geese.
 
1712 More Quilting
Joanne Banko uses the serger for a fast and easy quilt as you go technique, Emily Thompson shows paper piecing the easy way, and Caroline Critchfield has a binding technique for any size quilt.
 
1713 Lace Details
Angela Wolf adds lace to the top, Joanne Banko demonstrates stitch stacking, and Rebecca Kemp Brent shows a different way to add lace to a sleeve.

I hope you enjoy each and every segment! I'd love to know where you watch It's Sew Easy and what day and time you see the show. Feel free to let me know in the comments below.