Have you been to the library lately? Books, especially nonfiction how-to types, have become beautiful works of art with gorgeous photography and illustrations, specialty papers and metallic inks, and something for every interest. I love stopping at our local library, walking through the new books aisle and flipping through the pages for inspiration. Last spring I stumbled across Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland with beautiful illustrations by Anna Bond, and instantly fell in love with her style. The illustrations have color and whimsy and character all wrapped up in an eye-catching composition. So imagine my amazement while fabric…
This is the second project in a series using the patterns in Virginia Lindsay’s book, “Sewing to Sell.” It has great crafty sewing projects and inspiration for taking your sewing creativity to the next level. Project #2 Zipped Pouch I decided to try the Zipped Pouch because I was looking for a last-minute hostess gift, and I thought it has a great combination of cute and useful. And by using fun fabrics with gold accents along with a cream canvas and a metallic gold zipper, it will have a great stylish look. I made mine a little smaller…
Rick rack with modern fabrics? Rick rack on handcrafted cards? Yes and yes! Rick rack is sturdy, doesn’t fray, and can be easily added to any design or pattern. And it has a certain whimsy like no other trim. Rick rack adds a special cuteness to fabric patterns, especially on children’s and kitchen items. It can create a vintage feel but can also become updated when added to modern fabrics. I keep a stash of different bright colors and like to stitch it inside seams so only one half is sticking out. This adds dainty little scallops to…
This is the first project in a series using the patterns in Virginia Lindsay’s book, “Sewing to Sell.” It has great crafty sewing projects and inspiration for taking your sewing creativity to the next level. Project #1 Craft Apron I have sewn many aprons over the years to sell and give as gifts, but this pattern is a great modern version with lots of pockets and is easy to put together with layered rectangles. I’m looking forward to wearing it while crafting and putting all my crafty tools inside! It could also be a great “uniform” for a…