Great British Sewing Bee: Week 3

Well, what did we all think about week 3? Poor Julie, I shall definitely miss her. She brought a wonderful normality to the Bee!! Click the above lick to watch… This week the Sewers tackled Leggings, T-Shirt Up-Cycles and sewing Jersey dresses. Which was all a bit the same really, and I found myself zoning out a little to be honest! …

Customizing a Simple Skirt

As you may remember, last week I promised my version of customization, a la The Great British Sewing Bee. I have been struck by the ‘flu this week ( boo!), so this is a little late coming to you but I love the outcome so much, I thought I’d share! I am also really proud of myself for finally starting …

The Great British Sewing Bee: Week 2

Well, it all felt a little calmer this week didn’t it? All of the contestants seem to have settled down with the idea of the time limits, and we saw a lot more finished pieces! Yet again however; I feel I have been sent upon a whirlwind of Stitching terminology and techniques! It was all about pattern this week. Matching, …

The Great British Sewing Bee: Week 1

Well… what did we all think?! Click the above link to watch (it will be available to watch until the 25th of February, if you are in foreign parts you may have to search the underbelly of the Internet!) the first episode, which was a tour de force of sewing techniques! Those poor contestants, they were well and truly worked …

Make Christmas Stockings

For a last minute gift idea, these cannot be beaten! If you are stuck what to get someone, a hand made stocking stuffed with a  few choccies is absolutely the answer, and will be brought out each year to decorate their tree for ever more. Because they use such a small amount of fabric these are a wonderful quick, cost …

How to Make a Mans Tie inc. Pattern

   So, I have been fighting with technology to bring you a wonderful Vintage Tie, Cravat and Bow Tie Pattern I inherited a while ago. Alas, it was not to be, and creating Patterns with PDF downloadables’ has now made it on to the 2014 list… which is exciting as I have a whole heap of ideas about new Patterns …

Midnight Makes

So, what have I been up to over the last week, and what have I been stitching?! Well, it’s been a little busy to say the least! Not only have I been teaching Lingerie sewing techniques to a very lovely student, I have also been refining my own Bra Making skills! I have been somewhat thwarted however; as getting hold …

Notions: Add a Waistband to a Skirt

This is a great technique to know & can be used for Up-Cycling Vintage finds- cut the top off a Vintage dress if it doesn’t fit but make a great Skirt for instance, or if you are making a Skirt, or re-sizing a Skirt. Once you know the Skirt fits, you can construct & attach the Waistband. Cut a band …

Notions: Pretty Lace Edge

To achieve this pretty Lace edge detailing- ideal for Slips, Pyjamas, Lingerie or Skirts- first decide upon the Lace & measure the garment to ascertain the length needed. There are some beautiful, & colourful, Lace edgings out there & it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Next, fold the wrong side of the material over to the right side, to …