Truly the Art of Thread; this pillow combines dense decorative stitching with machine embroidery accents and cool corner tassels. A décor or upholstery weight fabric gives the proper stability – a dark, solid makes the stitching pop.
Magnetic snaps are indispensable to the construction of bags and more. The secrets to success are: having the time and patience to work in the correct order, and using extra precision in marking and measuring.
Remember making paper snowflakes as a kid? You fold, fold, fold, then cut, cut, cut. This fabric cutting technique is the same basic concept, but without the Swiss cheese effect. Grab your rotary cutter and mat, and let’s slice!
English paper piecing is handwork not machine stitching. Most people associate it with beautifully intricate quilt tops, but the precise, perfectly shaped pieces are just as wonderful on our pair of graphic decorator pillows.
We love this unique hand stitching tool. Our step-by-step tutorial shows how it can quickly attach one item to another as well as create an interesting line of stitching as a decorative accent. Great for bag handles!
Window coverings are a great DIY project; and simple enough for the beginning sewer. Straight edges. Simple, straight stitches. But even the most basic curtain project starts with knowing how to take proper measurements.
Elastic shirring creates a wonderful stretchy texture. It occupies the space between the simplicity of gathering and the intricacy of hand-smocking. We cover the technique itself as well as several project ideas.
Narrow tucks, called pintucks when they are super narrow, are often used in heirloom sewing, but they can add a lovely detail to many projects. Did you know you can create the look quickly and easily with your Quarter Inch foot?
A “Word Pillow” makes a bright, bold statement to add to your pillowscape. We include the appliqué template for “Ahoy,” but this time of year, you could build your own to suit the situation. How about: Dad, Grad, Smile or Hug?!
There is one particular type of hem we receive more questions about than any other: the rolled hem. Not to be confused with a narrow hem, a rolled hem is created using a special presser foot. Great for edges on lightweight fabrics.
Large, snap-on plastic grommets are traditionally associated with curtains, but they are a great solution for a variety of projects. Dritz makes the best, and we outline how quick and easy they are to install.
Rivets can hold thick layers together at points where it would be impossible to stitch with a machine. They’re the tough guys of sewing, but are actually quite easy to apply with the right tools and tips.
Our free gingham fruit embroidery + appliqué designs were custom-digitized for extra-fine 80wt thread. The stitch work is so delicate + precise, you’ll do a double-take when you realize it’s thread, not actual gingham fabric.
It’s a sewing technique everyone should have in their arsenal. The boxed corner creates space in something that would otherwise be flat. We show you the two most common methods and how to measure.
One unique apron pulls together three embellishment techniques: embroidery, decorative stitching, and quilting. We also added form-flattering pleats underneath the waistband and darts in the lower bodice.
When does 1+1 = 1? When you’re basting two layers together! Lear: how to determine if your sewing machine has a basting stitch, when to use the stitch in sewing projects, and why hand basting is sometimes best.
If you’re sewin’ and you know it… clap your hands. Honor your favorite hobby with our fun machine embroidery patches. Free downloads are included in 6 popular formats. We used Sulky 30wt cotton for a perfect matte finish.
This earns our Sewing Survival emblem because learning the ins and outs of all types of hardware options is key to adding a more professional finish to your next bag project (and more!). The secret is precise measuring.
Download free embroidery designs to add delicate autumn leaves to table linens (and more). Learn two hemming techniques: narrow double-fold hem with diagonal point corners plus a wider hem with full mitered corners.
It’s a hand-stitching technique! This type of edge finish for a pillow or cushion is not difficult, but for the best results; you need a longer, stronger needle, heavy-duty upholstery thread, and a soft yet stable mid-weight fabric.
A beautiful little zippered clutch is the kind of accessory that’s a snap to make and a joy to give (or keep). This version has a chic vintage look thanks to delicate cross stitch machine embroidery in a variety of soft colors.
This fast and easy pillowcase project demonstrates a construction technique known as “burrito style.” It’s a way to create nicely finished seams inside and out with a quick roll-and-turn method. Give it a go!
No matter what kind of sewing you like to do, there are times you must use a hand needle and thread. Learn our favorite tips and products to help eliminate knots and tangles so you can keep those stitches flowing smoothly.
“Cutting corners” can be a good thing – if you do it correctly. Sharp corners give a project a clean, professional finish. Learn techniques for clipping and stitching corners that will help maintain the best, cleanest shape.
A Sewing Tool Box Basic! Seam grading is like stair-stepping. It’s the process of turning a standard seam allowance into layered tiers of fabric. The result is less bulk, which means a smoother finish from the right side.
We scaled down a traditional laundry duffle to kid size, making it easy to fill and carry to the laundry room. Plus, the super-cute appliqué on the front leaves no doubt about what needs to be done with the bag’s contents!
Learn the machine stitches and techniques that best mimic the delicate handwork associated with heirloom sewing. We focus on the options that are the easiest to incorporate into garment or home décor projects.
Broken zipper = broken heart! It’s a major frustration because it means something either won’t close or won’t open. The most common element to fail is the zipper slider; this can also be the easier part to replace.
From getting the spacing right, to cutting holes in the fabric, to the actual installation process, we’re here to prove you can conquer this hardware at home and get a professional result. Plus you get to hit stuff with a hammer!
For more basic Janome sewing machines (5mm and 7mm), this a fun, easy way to add little decorative stitch touches in pretty thread colors! Be the flower girl of the sewing accessory world, sprinkling pretty posies over any project.
Already a S4H Member? Sign in
Rising costs have affected us too, so we've made a few changes to help cover expenses and keep delivering the best creative experience possible.
Purchase single PDF downloads for 99 cents each
Ad Free
Subscribe for 6 months of ad-free browsing + free PDF downloads + discounts + giveaways for just $5 per month
Ad Free
Subscribe for a full year of ad-free browsing + even more free PDF downloads + discounts + giveaways for just $4 per month
