Sewing

A simple, quick project using patchwork and appliqué. 00

A simple, quick project using patchwork and appliqué.

A simple, quick project using patchwork and appliqué.

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Having recently learnt the basics of patchwork and quilting I wanted to take on a small, simple project using these skills before working my way up to tackling making a quilt. For a look at my first attempts at quilting see our blog post on What is quilting? A patchwork and appliqué cushion seemed like the perfect answer.  I drew a simple pattern of a patchwork border and left space in the middle for some appliqué. The first challenge was choosing the material. Too many choices! What are the best colours to go together? The second challenge was what to use as the appliqué. This was meant to be a simple quick project so I chose a simple pattern of two hearts. After measuring the cushion pad and allowing for seam allowances I cut out the material using a rotary cutter. Rotary cutters are great for shapes with straight edges and so much quicker than scissors. For an introduction to using a rotary cutter click here. With all the pieces cut out I prepared the back of the cushion. This is a simple envelope cushion so I had cut the back wider than the cushion pad so I could cut it in half to make the envelope overlap. The edges were turned over and sewn into place and the two pieces put aside to use later. The next step was to attach the hearts to the front using Bondaweb.  Being more than capable of attaching the wrong side of the appliqué to the cushion I always follow our simple tutorial on this to get it right each time! Next each patchwork strips was attached to the appliquéd centrepiece to make one large front piece for the cushion. Then attach the two back pieces, insert the cushion pad and the cushion is finished.     Simple and quick to make!  There is no excuse get revamping your cushions now! The Finished Cushion...

Sewing Techniques – Using Bondaweb for Applique 00

Sewing Techniques – Using Bondaweb for Applique

Sewing Techniques – Using Bondaweb for Applique

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A quick guide to using Bondaweb in Applique. Its easy to get confused when using Bondaweb. The last thing you want to do is stick it to your iron by mistake or get the applique the wrong way round.  To help you get it right we have written a quick guide. Draw or trace your shape onto the paper side of the Bondaweb. In the middle of your design, on the Bondaweb, write your name,the colour of the material your will be cutting it out in, your favourite colour or anything as you will need this later to make sure you have the Bondaweb the right way round. Roughly cut out the shape in the Bondaweb. Giving it a 0.5-1cm border. Take the fabric that you want to cut the shape out of and turn it over so the wrong side is facing you. Lay the Bondaweb onto it making sure that you can read your writing. (This will make sure you are ironing the correct side!) Iron the Bondaweb to the fabric so the Bondaweb and the fabric stick together. Roughly cut the shape out of the fabric. Then neatly cut out  your finished shape. Peel the Bondaweb off of the fabric. You can feel the Bondaweb has left a coating on the fabric. Place the Bondaweb side of your appliqué onto the material it is to be adhered to and iron it until it sticks. Stitch around the edge of the appliqué. Either by hand or with a machine.  Remember that your finished appliqué will be in reverse from the shape you originally draw.  When you start it is easier to start with symmetrical shapes so that this does not...

Great Tutorial on How to Use a Rotary Cutter on Fabric 00

Great Tutorial on How to Use a Rotary Cutter on Fabric

Great Tutorial on How to Use a Rotary Cutter on Fabric

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We found a great tutorial on how to use a rotary cutter and how to square up fabric.  Have a look at it on our Facebook Page.

Bee Pin Cushion 00

Bee Pin Cushion

Bee Pin Cushion

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Love these Bee Pin Cushions our quilting teacher made especially for us.

Do you have basic sewing skills and are looking for the next step? 00

Do you have basic sewing skills and are looking for the next step?

Do you have basic sewing skills and are looking for the next step?

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Have you thought about making a bag? Once you have learnt the basics of how to use a sewing machine it can be difficult to decide what your next project should be.  One suggestion is to make a bag. This is a great next step as you learn how to cut fabric out on the fold, how to start using a pattern, how to use interfacing and how to attach a lining. Gain confidence on this bag and start taking your sewing to the next level.  These bags also make great presents. That’s if you can bring yourself to give away them away! Full details on Our Make a Tote Bag Course. Want to brush up your sewing skills ready to make a bag? No problem come along to our Learn to use a Sewing Machine Class.                                              ...

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