The benefits of learning to Sew

Learning to sew has a variety of benefits, including practical and creative advantages. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider learning to sew or if you can already sew, why you should consider passing on your skills to your children: Overall, learning to sew is a practical and rewarding skill that can […]

Why does this fabric feel different?

“I’ve bought two lots of 95/5 cotton jersey but they don’t feel the same.” Why does this happen? What most people assume is that the composition of fibres IE 95% Cotton and 5% elastane (lycra or spandex)  means those fibres will be exactly the same but it’s not the case. The fibres themselves may vary in […]

Kids First Sewing Projects

Teaching your children to sew and sharing your beloved hobby with them is a very rewarding endeavour. You will want to begin with a simple project that is quick to complete to encourage their interest in sewing. Beginning with a project too big or too complicated could lead to frustration and wanting to give up […]

Pattern Weights – what do you use?

Pattern weights are a lifesaver for sewing. They weigh the pattern down allowing you to trace or cut around it without it shifting or using pins. Weights are beneficial in so many ways, here’s just a few of our favourite reasons for using them: There are many different options for pattern weights, you can buy […]

Tidy Spaces – Fabric Storage & Machine Set Ups

Having an organised and tidy sewing space has many benefits. It’s much easier to find things in an organised environment, your fabrics will stay in nice condition and it’ll be quicker to get actually sewing. We have blogged about keeping a tidy desk before – read that blog post here – but we didn’t touch […]

Which Sewing Thread To Use – The right thread for the job

Knowing which sewing thread to use can be a minefield of information so we have put together this handy guide to make choosing the thread for your project a breeze. Some machines prefer a certain brand of thread and using a different brand can cause problems, this is very specific to certain machines so it […]

Smooth things over – How to maintain irons and what type you need

Ironing and Sewing

Whether you love or loathe ironing, in sewing it is a must have to get that professional finish. A good iron can be the difference between perfectly crisp hems and a wrinkled mess despite ages of pressing. Knowing what is the best iron for sewing can be a minefield so we’ve put together a selection of recommendations plus top tips to look out for when on the hunt for a new iron.

Scissors or Rotary Cutter – the debate goes on…

Scissors or Rotary Cutter - the debate goes on...

So many people have a strong preference to using either scissors or a rotary cutter. Others have only ever tried one type and are cautious to try doing things another way. Cutting tools can be a personal thing and no single tool is perfect for everyone, or for every fabric. Here we give you a […]

A Light On The Situation – Crafting Lamps

A Light On The Situation - Crafting Lamps

Having the right type of light when crafting can make all the difference to the enjoyment and ease of your craft time. Low light, the wrong intensity and the wrong position can all impact on your crafting experience and can cause problems such as eye strain. The exact type of lighting you need will depend […]

Do your tools measure up?

Sewing Set Up

Everyone knows the phrase “Measure Twice Cut Once” and it’s especially true in sewing. Having the right tool for the job helps with this task, making sure your measurements are accurate and clear. There are a wide variety of measuring tools you can use depending on what you’re measurements. Each tool has it’s pros and […]

Desk Tidy Tips & DIY Thread Catchers

Desk Tidy Tips & DIY Thread Catchers

Having a tidy sewing station makes for a much more pleasant sewing experience as you can easily find everything and you’re not overrun with scraps and threads. Due to the many tools and materials we use as crafters there are infinite ways a sewing station can become cluttered very quickly; thread, scissors, pins, clips, zips, […]

Don’t break your back – sewing posture help

When sewing it is vitally important to have the correct sewing posture. Sitting improperly can cause back, neck and shoulder issues. We’ve put together a list of top tips to get your posture right when sewing – but please note this is not medical advice. Please see a health professional if you’re in pain. The […]