START SEWING with easy projects

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The original mission of this site was to introduce sewing to anyone who may have toyed with the idea of learning to sew but hasn’t found the motivation to start.

A motivation for learning a new hobby is that one must be AMUSED. So, it’s gotta be FUN … at least a large percentage of the time.

Fun is different for everyone. Like a child, I personally have a very short-term FUN-to-Frustration/ Satisfaction ratio. Meaning, I need to have some immediate results with a low learning curve! Read on for just that!

MINI STAR FABRIC

These are some free one piece patterns to get a taste for sewing.

So quick and easy!

Click photos for patterns and instructions.

 

MINI STAR FABRIC

 

For an easy project with a small learning curve for beginners, check out 2 piece animals by Elaine Heigl Designs for Simplicity. These sew up super fast! Make many!

Click the photos for more information.

 

 

Simplicity 8044 are the original 2 piece animal sets by Elaine Heigl Designs. Make 2 piece animal babies with 8716…so lovable! 2 piece animals can be made from plush, minky, cotton, knit or fleece. Fleece is the very easiest fabric to sew.

 

If you think sewing might be fun…. you can start sewing, with a few tools, supplies, some tutorials and practice. No sewing machine? An inexpensive one (under $100!) will do! One can be purchased online or at a super store. 

Sew! …….give it a whirl!

Elaine

 

SEW UP A PULLOVER DRESS

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This dress is designed for laid back comfort and casual outings. Sew up in a soft lightweight dress fabric such as rayon or cotton. Check out AGI and Robert Kaufman at fabric.com for fabulous coordinate prints in the latest color palettes. Accessorize with trendy platform shoes and a fun crossover bag.

SEW UP A PARTY!

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Get festive with party animals.

Using only 2-3 main pattern pieces you can whip up a zoo or circus party with Simplicity 9498.

Make mini crown or cone party hats for your animals and friends. Nice for party favors! 

Party! Party!

mini hat patterns

Fun fabrics were specially designed for these party animals. All availble at Spoonflower.com, a great source for indie designs.

Make these critters in fleece, knits, low pile plush, or cotton prints …all good!

Create a party environment for everyday fun.

Make and decorate a crown or ruffle headband. Great for party favors!

Create decorative patches and letters for banners using paper backed fusible web.

Click photos below for links to instructions and patterns.

 

Create a Cherished Heirloom: Simplicity 8155 Bear Pattern with Repurposed Clothing and Unique Embroidery

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Hi there! I’d like to share one of my designs for Simplicity patterns: Simplicity 8155. This bear pattern is designed to be a forever bear, a cherished family heirloom to be passed down through generations.

Finding Hidden Treasures to Build Your Bear

There are many possibilities to make a truly special one-of-a-kind bear. Repurposing clothing or blankets filled with memories can add a unique touch.

 

On a shopping adventure I found many great possibilities to repurpose at thrift and consignment shops!

I selected a tweedy, chunky sweater for one bear. A perfect fit for this bear body pattern!

Here’s a close-up of a bear made from that thrift shop sweater!

Adding Heirloom Details

To make your bear even more special, consider adding heirloom details. Machine embroidery is a great way to add beautiful, easy-to-sew accents. Handcrafted embroidery or fabric pens also work wonderfully for adding personalized messages or blessings. Let your creativity shine and make each bear uniquely yours!

Sew for smiles.

MAKE APPLIQUÉ PATCHES WITH PAPER BACKED FUSIBLE WEB

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Paper backed fusible web is an easy and accessible way to add detailing to any sewn project. Once you try out this product, you may want to decorate everything!

Paper backed fusible web is available in three weights: heavy, medium and light. Test and experiment with each weight to get a feel for each. Heavy weight was used for this demo.
Paper backed fusible web is sold by the yard or prepackaged. Detailed instructions and recommendations are included.
Here are some tips and a preview of the application process for you to check out. So easy!

TRACE

Place paper backed fusible web over graphic rough (glue) side up. Use a pencil to trace graphic

 

FUSE

Place paperbacked fusible web, glue side facing back of the fabric. Fabric should be larger than fusible web. Fuse with a hot iron. Let cool.

 

CUT OUT

Cut out using small sharp scissors for precision.

 

REMOVE PAPER BACKING

Sometimes a pin or needle helps start to lift the paper away.

 

Make sure glue is adhered to the fabric. If some glue remains on the paper, touch up with a hot iron again so the glue completely adheres to the fabric.

 

Sometimes the process of removing the paper from the fabric may rough up an edge. You can trim that edge if it is acceptable for your design.

FUSE AND FINISH

Fuse on appliqué using a damp presser cloth and a hot iron.

 

You can finish an appliqué with many decorative stitch styles.

SOME TIPS:

Test this product on your fabric first.

A tightly woven fabric is the easiest to work with.

Since fuse is best using an iron on a high temperature setting, use a presser cloth to protect synthetic fabrics.

Create fun patches for your fashion, accessories and doll clothes. Express the unique you!