Double the precision in half the time. A twin needle is basically two needles attached to a single shank. One is slightly shorter than the other so your bobbin can catch the thread from both needles. So clever that bobbin!
A straight line seems like the most basic sewing technique. But we’re amazed by the number of comments and questions we get about how to do it better, easier, and more consistently. Using the right foot for the job is the real secret.
Whatever the task, a bit of hand stitching usually comes in… well, “handy.” We’ve outlined the tools needed along with seven of the most common stitches. Simple drawings and steps show how to do each one.
Layer upon layer upon layer?! With the right presser feet and accessories, an understanding of seam grading, and the patience to go slowly and carefully, you can sew like a pro through thick and thin.
A twist on traditional. Check out these two unique tassel styles: the Broomstick Tassel with a sleek, floss-wrapped hanging loop, and the fantastical Yarn Chubbies, which we think look like fluffy little dancing dolls.
Choosing the right thread for a project is an important factor that determines the final look, feel, and oftentimes, longevity of the project. In this Guest Tutorial, our friends at Sulky offer some expert advice about cotton thread.
We chose the Janome embroidery-only 550E machine to help create this beautiful set of embroidered placemats and napkins, selecting two built-in florals and stitching them against a shear ribbon lattice on a 100% linen background.
We all make mistakes, but many errors can be avoided with proper planning, attention to detail, and the wisdom to slow down. Take the time to consider the best practices that will provide the best results.
That giant display of bias tapes and bindings can be overwhelming. Single fold, double fold, blanket, quilt. Geeze! What’s what and why? The S4H Sizing ID Chart gives the basic facts about the six most common types of bindings.
Don’t know about you, but we find sewing buttons by hand a bit tedious, time-consuming, and it can be hard to get them all to look uniform. Solution: using a Button Sewing foot on your machine. Securely attached and perfectly aligned.
If you’ve ever tried to work with fabric cuts are that are not straight and true, you know why it’s so important to square-up your fabric. Find our easy folding, aligning, and cutting tips plus ruler recommendations.
A skosh, a wee bit, just a hair… sometimes, the distances we want to work with when sewing aren’t quite as precise as the engraved inch and millimeter markings on our machines. This foot allows you to custom set your seam.
Life can get a little sticky. In sewing, it’s the surfaces of specialty fabrics, like laminates that love to drag across your presser foot and/or needle plate, causing stitching to bunch or break. Janome Ultra Glide to the rescue.
Pretty fabric gift envelopes you can customize. Use florals + brights as we did or switch colors + prints to match the season or occasion. They tie shut with a clever pull-thru bow. And, we’ve included a free gift card download.
Do you loop a tape measure around your neck while sewing? This design capitalizes on the habit, turning a measuring tape into a mini caddy. Scissors on one end and a pincushion on the other – or customize the tools to you!
Learn contortion pleating, which involves twisting the gauze into a bound bundle then drying it in a conventional dryer or a microwave prior to final air drying. Learn to crinkle, then learn to make this gorgeous tasseled scarf.
We’re here help with the steps you’ve forgotten since high school geometry: parts of a circle, how wide to cut fabric to fit a circle, how to draw a circle without a pattern, and how to convert decimals to inches to work with Pi.
Sweets for your sweet look even more delicious in these beautiful baskets. They’re extra wide and just the right depth for cookies, candy, and more; they’re not too thick, not too thin… deep dish, like a good Chicago pizza.
Cuteness alert! These baby bibs are pretty and practical. The front is made from Jelly Roll strips. The back is absorbent terry cloth. Download our free Baby’s First Christmas gift tags to create an adorable holiday bundle.
Our simple yet clever design results in a beautifully finished bag inside and out. And because you can reuse them, it’s like two gifts in one. Great for scraps or pre-cuts! We also include a free gift tag printable.
Soft and warm – the two just go together. Our double-sided infinity loop scarf is super fast and fun. And, with so many great color and design options in both fleece and faux fur, you can bundle up everyone in designer style.
Add a little holiday cheer by changing out your pillowcases. It’s fast, easy, and inexpensive. Our instructions show how to make two standard cases using just 1½ yards of main fabric and ½ yard of trim fabric.
At just 16″ x 30”, it’s a great size for smaller tables, breakfast bars or as the center décor on a larger table. The pretty patchwork center features four flying geese blocks. Includes a free set of matching cards + tags to download.
Microwavable heating pads with organic fillers are a wonderful way to soothe sore muscles or warm up on a cold day. We’ve done several pads here at S4H and also tested 3 favorite fillers. Would you choose: rice, corn or flax, or…?
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 it’s hard to imagine, most fabric is still created on a loom – 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 it 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 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!
This cute card wallet has two clear-view pockets that 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 – we found ours for just $2 – add some simple fabric and trim details and voila: style on a shoestring and a great first make. It’s also an excellent ScrapBusters project.
We go over our recommendations for what to have on hand if you’re 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 cooling wraps use water absorbing crystals within the pockets of a long, tie-on tube for fast cooling power. For adults, kids, even pets.
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