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Exploring Decorative Stitches on Your Sewing Machine

March 20, 2017 By Carole Fure & filed under Blog, Quilt Supplies.

My sewing machine was almost twenty years old before I looked at any of the other stitches it offered besides the straight stitch which I used for piecing and the zigzag stitch which I used for mending. What a waste, yet at the same time, what an opportunity. I decided to explore this neglected resource.…

15 Reasons to Buy More Fabric

March 16, 2017 By Editor & filed under Blog, Just for Fun.

“I don’t think I need any more fabric; I’ve got all that I need”… said no one ever! In case you need any motivation to go out and buy more fabric for your next quilting project (though we highly doubt that you do!), here are 15 reasons to help you support your case! Special thanks…

Why You Should Use a Walking Foot for Quilting

February 22, 2017 By Kelly Hanson & filed under Blog, Quilt Supplies.

There are so many makes and models of sewing machines today, a far stretch from the machines of yesteryear. A recent arrival in machines is the dual feed system which enables the feed dogs and machine foot to work together to move the multiple layers of fabric through the machine. Bernina calls it their innovative…

Quilted Jewelry Part 2: Creating the Gem Stones

January 25, 2017 By Colleen Ansbaugh & filed under Projects.

In Part 1 of this project, we talked about how quilted jewelry can be a great project for using up all those wonderful fabric scraps we tend to have lying around. We also talked about design ideas for your jewelry, as well as how to audition fabrics to select exactly the prints and patterns you…

How to Repair Holes and Tears in Quilt Tops

January 24, 2017 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

Hi there, I’m hoping you can help me. I have a newly finished quilt that got a small hole in the top from my cat’s claws. What’s the best way to repair this so that my quilt still looks okay?

Quilted Jewelry Part 1: From Scraps to Gem Stones

January 13, 2017 By Colleen Ansbaugh & filed under Projects.

Do you stifle the urge to part with lovely leftover fabrics, but unsure of how to use them? Many of us save cut-offs and tid-bits, tossing them into containers to be consumed on a rainy day. Or, perhaps you clip leftover fabrics into strips which seldom see the light of day. Or maybe just collect…

What to Include on Quilt Labels

December 26, 2016 By Editor & filed under Ask a Quilting Expert, Blog.

When making a quilt label, is it appropriate to include the name of the person who designed the pattern? And is it necessary to contact the designer of a quilt pattern to receive permission to enter a quilt (made using that pattern) in a quilt show? Submitted via email When it comes to quilt labels,…

Make Your Own Gift Bags, Tags, and Greeting Cards

December 7, 2016 By Editor & filed under Blog, Projects, Tips & Ideas.

Are you tired of buying wrapping paper and gift bags year after year only to have them be thrown away as soon as the gift is opened? Why not make your own gift wrapping materials that are not only reusable but beautiful enough that they become part of the gift themselves! Better yet, you can…

Understanding Colors and How They Impact Your Quilt Design

November 15, 2016 By Editor & filed under Blog, Tips & Ideas.

One of the most important elements of quilt composition is color. Color choices can make or break a quilt, and it is sometimes difficult to select a color scheme that works for you. If you’re struggling to choose colors, or are unsure of what kinds of combinations will best accentuate your quilt, we suggest you…

How to Rehab a Vintage Sewing Machine

November 7, 2016 By Victoria Benson & filed under Blog, Tips & Ideas.

From Featherweights to classic Sewmor machines, vintage sewing machines make a beautiful addition to any quilting room. With their shining black bodies and gold art deco or swirl designs, they’ll add a decorative touch to any room. Spend enough time searching auctions and flea markets for antique quilts and you’ll eventually come across some of…