Microwavable heating pads with organic fillers are a wonderful way to soothe sore muscles or warm up on a cold day. Weโve done several pads here at S4H and also tested 3 favorite fillers. Would you choose: rice, corn or flax, orโฆ?
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!
Though itโs hard to imagine, most fabric is still created on a loom โ just as it was thousands of years ago! Technology makes the process much faster, but the basic principles are still the same. Learn about warp, weft, and more.
This luggage tag is so easy (and fun!), and takes just a little bit of fabric. We created it in a large size and used a bold color to help quickly spot bags in a crowded environment. Includes a free blank ID card download.
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 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!
Pull your favorite scraps for this gift card wallet. Two clear-view pockets can hold a gift card and a handwritten note. We also designed a matching free printable: two sheets of 10, perfectly-sized gift tags to download + customize.
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.
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?
Start with an off-the-shelf hot pad and mitt set โ we found ours for $2 โ add some simple fabric and trim details and voila: style on a shoestring and a great first make. Itโs also an excellent ScrapBusters project.ย
We go over our recommendations for what to have on hand if youโre just getting started in the world of sewing as well as a few favorites to add to your toolbox as you move up in your skill level and expand your projects.
When temperatures rise, a great quick-cooling spot is your neck. Our easy-to-make wraps use water absorbing crystals within the pockets of a long, tie-on tube for fast cooling power. For adults, kids, even pets.
Pre-cut bundles can shorten your cutting time and give you an affordable way to purchase an entire collection of fabric without breaking the bank. Learn the most common sizes and names for these handy little fabric cuts.
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.
When budgets get tight, repairing and re-purposing is the way to go to extend an itemโs life. We explore some innovative ideas for using iron-on patches for scarves, t-shirts, pillows, andโฆ of course, jeans.
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.
Whether youโre sewing or just binge-watching a bit too much TV, you need to get up and move around. These ten simple exercises donโt require any special tools; use your own body to stretch and strengthen.
From cooking to organizing to looking good, these five favorites are sure to please. The supplies needed are minimal; you may already have the perfect options in your stash. To make your gift extra special, we have a set of free printable โMom Said!โ gift tags.
This project features not 1, not 2, but 3 cute zippered pouch styles to hold lifeโs little necessities. Three specialty labels further customize each pouch, and we offer a free set of Motherโs Day gift tags as a finishing touch.
Rivets can hold thick layers together at points where it would be impossible to stitch with a machine. Theyโre the tough guys of sewing, but are actually quite easy to apply with the right tools and tips.
Our free gingham fruit embroidery + appliquรฉ designs were custom-digitized forย Aurifil 80wt thread. The stitch work is so delicate + precise, youโll do a double-take when you realize itโs thread, not actual gingham fabric.
Simple panel window coverings are often one of the first DIY home dรฉcor projects people attempt. Figuring out how best to hang those pretty panels can be more of a challenge. Dritz offers three drapery tape solutions.
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.
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.
This clever Janome foot helps you attach tape evenly and smoothly to the edge of your fabric. Adjust it to handle widths from 5mm to 20mm. Use both single fold and double fold binding styles, either tape youโve made or packaged.
Pom poms are fun for so many projects. Whether you need one great pom or dozens, a Clover Pom Maker simplifies the task, and each one will be as perfectly puffy as the next. Find some yarn and get ready to get fluffy.