Sunday, June 26, 2011

:) Save with Joann Fabrics coupons - Joann Fabrics promotions for nice savings

Author: SandraMarkham

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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/food-and-beverage-articles/save-with-joann-fabrics-coupons-joann-fabrics-promotions-for-nice-savings-3954763.html

About the Author

Use with Joann Fabrics coupon codes , in your local retail store

Friday, June 24, 2011

:) How to: Sew a Patternless Dress

Author: Karisa Tell

If you're a seasoned seamstress, you probably use patterns all the time. You probably have a collection of vintage Simplicity patterns that have been cut, pinned, and stashed for decades. The majority of beginner sewers, however, can't tell which end is up when looking at a pattern (literally–I once looked at a pattern and could not tell whether it was upside down or not). Once I discovered the world of sewing tutorials (as opposed to tangible patterns), I was hooked!

When I was asked to be a bridesmaid in my brother's wedding and told that I could wear any dress I wanted, as long as it was black, I knew I had to make a sewing project out of it. I combined two sewing tutorials I found online.
Here's what I did:
  1. First I took a huge piece of chiffon (left over from my Hair Pom project!) and cut it into long strips, 2 inches wide. (Note: I didn't read the directions in full until I was, well, all done. So learn from my mistakes: BUY NON-FRAY CHIFFON!!!)
  2. Turn your sewing machine to it's largest stitch and increase the upper thread tension. You don't need to put it at its highest tension setting because chiffon is a very thin fabric, so it will ruffle easily. Sew a line down the center of each strip (refer to my ruffling tutorial for more info on making ruffles). When you get to the end of a strip, feel free to attach a second strip by feeding it right into the machine.
  3. Once you've got a bunch of ruffles done, it's time to attach them to your skirt piece. I bought two yards of black fabric and cut it in half lengthwise (so that the "waist" measurement was 2 yards and the length was appropriate–I wanted it to start at my natural waist and end around my knees, plus seam allowances). Sew the first ruffle around the bottom of your fabric piece, making sure you have changed your machine settings to a lower tension and smaller stitch length. Continue sewing ruffles until you're satisfied. The Can-Can skirt has ruffles all the way up, but I chose to only do a few rows along the bottom of the skirt.
  4. Thus far, your skirt has just been a gigantic rectangle. To turn it into a skirt, we're going to refer to Megan Nielsen's gathering instructions. Take a piece of elastic waistband and measure how big you want it to be (wrap it against your waist, wherever you want the skirt to start). Pin your cut piece of elastic to the skirt piece, making sure to stretch the waistband as you go. Zig-Zag stitch the waistband to the skirt piece, again stretching as you go.
  5. I way over estimated how much my waistband was going to stretch, so I ended up with extra fabric after I sewed the elastic on. Just cut this piece off and throw it in the scrap pile. I would recommend using only 1 yard or a yard and a half instead of 2 yards of skirt fabric, like I used. Next, hold the raw edges of your skirt length together, wrong sides facing in, and stitch them together.
  6. Hem the bottom of the skirt. At this point, you have a skirt that you could potentially wear by itself. So if you'd rather make a patternless skirt, you're done!
  7. Instead of using a tank top, I purchased a black blouse from a thrift store to use as the top. I thought this would be a little more wedding appropriate.
  8. I realized I didn't really like the blouse all that much when I tried it on with the skirt, but I'd already purchased it, so I had to make do. I ripped out the ruffles, buttons, and collar, cut the bottom of the shirt at my natural waist, and removed the shirring from the back.
  9. After I had basically destroyed the blouse, I was pretty sure I'd have to scrap it and start over. But I just kept going anyway! I sewed the front of the shirt together and added another strip of ruffled chiffon around the neckline.
  10. Finally, it's time to attach your top to your bottom! I tucked the blouse inside the skirt, so that the waistband lay flat on top of the blouse. Then I pinned all the way around and zig-zag stitched it down.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/how-to-sew-a-patternless-dress-4039701.html
About the Author

Karisa Tell is an Editor for FaveCrafts.com and AllFreeSewing.com

Thursday, June 23, 2011

:) Five Easy to Make Projects to Enhance Your Sewing Skills

Author: Kirsten Soh

Sewing and using the sewing machine can be frightening especially if you don't have any idea how to sew or use the machine . Although you don't know how to sew, you can still learn how to do it.

By reading this article you'll know the basics of sewing. In the succeeding paragraphs, you will be giving sewing projects that are simple, can be made easily and are very useful. Try making the projects stated below and see how you improve on sewing.

One of the things you can make to practice sewing is cloth napkin. It is not only easy to make and useful in the dining area but it is also good for the environment. Nowadays, we are trying hard to reduce the amount of garbage we throw so that we will not harm the environment. Through using cloth napkins we reduce the number of paper napkins we use hence reducing its number of waste. Cotton bends or ordinary cotton cloth makes good cloth napkins.

Quilted placemats are also sewing projects that are so easy to make. By using these items, you can also contribute to the environment by helping minimize the garbage. Cotton blend type of cloth makes good placemat. It has many designs, colors and patterns that can complement your dining hall. With these placemats you can enhance the look or your dining hall.

Apron is one of the many easy things you can make from sewing. Although there are many aprons available in the market, it is best to make your own to test your sewing skills. In creating apron, it is recommended that you add pockets on it so you can put in there things that you are using when working.

T-shirt dresses that you commonly find in malls and boutiques are easy to make. In fact, these are one of the top easy things a beginner in sewing can do. All you need to do is find a cloth that you like and then find a t-shirt that will match the color and the pattern of your chosen fabric. Then you can stitch the skirt in your own preferred length and style.

The last sewing work that you can create is the skirt made of jeans. To make use of your tight jeans, then you can transform them into a skirt. How? Cut the inner part of the legs of your jeans open. Then stitch the other part of the leg to the other. Other cloth can also be used to fill the space and come up with a nice skirt.

The only way you can learn how to sew well is to start from the beginning and practice hard by making small and easy stuff. With effort and determination, you will be able to make items that have more complex designs.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/needlework-articles/five-easy-to-make-projects-to-enhance-your-sewing-skills-3959097.html

About the Author

Kirsten Soh is a premiered writer when it comes to home improvement and learning "how-to" topics. She recently published her latest article on bib aprons and customized aprons here.

:) Sewing Project - How To Make Homemade Baby Bibs

Author: Shelly Hill


I just recently became a first time grandmother and have been enjoying the new little addition to our family. I am also an avid crafter and seamstress so I can often be found in my craft and sewing room creating some wonderful things for my friends and family.

With the new addition of the baby girl to our family, I decided I wanted to make some homemade baby bibs. I thought the process would be difficult, but once I got started...I realized how easy it was to create my own bibs for our grand-daughter.

Here are the supplies you will need:

1 pre-purchased terry cloth bib to use as a pattern
1 package of double fold bias tape (2 yard package), per bib
sewing machine
sewing thread
1/4 yard of cotton terry cloth fabric
Scissors
Miscellaneous sewing supplies

Note: If you really want to be frugal, you can recycle some old terry cloth bath towels for this project.

Lay your pre-purchased baby bib down on a piece of white paper and trace around the shape using a pencil, then cut out your paper pattern. Next, unroll your bias tape and cut off a piece of bias tape measuring 34" in length. Pin your paper pattern down onto your terry cloth fabric and pin into place. Cut around the paper pattern and then remove the pins. Cover and pin the bias tape around the raw edges of the sides and bottom of your bib, don't cover the neck area just yet.

Using your sewing machine, stitch the bias tape into place and fasten off. Cut another piece of bias tape measuring approximately 26" long. Attach the center of the bias tape to the center neck area of the bib, pin into place. (note: a piece of bias tape about 10" long is left at both ends of the neck edge for the ties.) Using your sewing machine, stitch around the neck opening so that you are attaching and covering the raw edges.

You can use your pre-purchased one as a guide on how it should be sewn.

Decorations: If desired, you can use 3/4" wide eyelet lace instead of bias tape in step one of the sewing, but you will still need to use a coordinating color of bias tape for the neck area and ties. You can embroider a name or nice design onto the front of the bib or purchase some cute iron-on applique's.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/sewing-project-how-to-make-homemade-baby-bibs-1266489.html


About the Author

Shelly Hill has been working from home in Direct Sales since 1989 and is a Manager with Tupperware. Shelly enjoys crafting, scrapbooking and sewing along with various other crafting mediums. You can visit Shelly online at http://www.workathomebusinessoptions.com for free family and parenting articles or her recipe blog at http://wahmshelly.blogspot.com for free family recipes.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

:) Try A Fun Sewing Project- A Felt Stocking Kit

Author: Brenda Sewell

There are many fun sewing projects to pick from such as a felt stocking kit. If you have never attempted a sewing project or you are looking for a new craft based pastime then felt appliqué sewing kits may well be just the thing. Appliqué is a French term which broadly means 'to apply'.

In appliqué sewing craft pastime kits you stitch together marked felt pieces and shapes to build them up into your completed item. As a pastime there are lots of advantages to felt appliqué sewing craft kits. All sets are ready supplied with all the pieces you would require to complete the project. All the constituent felt parts are already pre-marked to help you to cut them out at the start. It is easy to follow the instructions as you just need to clip out the parts and commence stitching them together. Some sections require you pack them with padding to form a three dimensional shape. All the requisite components such as beads, sequins and miscellaneous colored yarn is fully included so you are able to begin making your project right away. Working through the kit building all the parts together the user will own a beautiful ornamental item when completed.

Of course if you are a novice at sewing felt craft kits it is wise to begin with a basic project kit. Basic kits are much less complex and will allow the beginner to naturally learn and advance with their sewing craft skills. As the user's skills expand they will want to tackle a more intricate fun sewing project. Some of the more advanced projects like the Christmas felt stocking kits can be quite involved with many parts to build together. In spite of being more difficult it is surely worth the extra effort as the final result is a striking iconic festive decoration that can be put to use for years. When given to a child or grandchild they may personalised with a name to make them an extra special gift item.

Although many people see their hobby as an personal activity, sewing craft kits together can be a pursuit for yourself or as part of a group. It can be great fun sewing project after project as a family activity. Because projects such as the felt stocking kits have numerous parts each child or group member can help in putting it together. Alternatively, each person can make and accomplish their own sewing model and take pride in the finished piece.

Kids will not only enjoy it but can learn the practical ability of sewing too. There are always lots of projects to choose from with a great variety of different patterns and styles. blossom. For a traditional festive decoration nothing can beat a Christmas stocking. You can even assemble them as a pleasurable gift for your beloved pet filled with all their favorite treats.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/try-a-fun-sewing-project-a-felt-stocking-kit-2598790.html
About the Author

I love crafts and have been creating amazing fun sewing projects for a longtime. Christmas Stocking Kits are my firm favorites so if you want learn more about these gorgeous festive decoration kits join me here at http://www.squidoo.com/bucilla-christmas-stocking-kits

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

:) Tutorials for Sewing a Bra Pocket

When I first heard the term “bra pocket”, I thought it meant one of those money pouches women used to tuck in their cleavage. I was surprised and humbled to realize a bra pocket is a solution for women who have undergone a mastectomy.

Having a mastectomy is a life-changing event, and many women require a long time afterwards to feel right about anything in their lives. Although, when ready to move on, you can still fill out your clothes like you did before the operation by using a prosthetic.

Sewing a bra pocket provides a way to secure the prosthetic inside a fabric pouch, so it won't overheat your skin. To maximize your comfort level when wearing the prosthetic, use soft, absorbent, breathable fabric for the portion that touches your skin.

I was going to write a step-by-step tutorial explaining how to sew a bra pocket, but I decided that my sources were so excellent, all I really need to do is provide the links and brief descriptions so you can find the tutorial that fits your needs.

If you have any questions, or if you have problems opening the tutorials, let me know and I'll go ahead and prepare a tutorial to post here, with photos to help you with making the pocket.

The first source is Threads Magazine, and their bra pocket tutorial describes sewing a flat patch that rests against your skin onto the back of your bra. You then slide the prosthetic into the pocket.

The next two sources describe a similar sewing process, so I’m lumping them into the same mini paragraph. The American Cancer Society and the Cancer Council describe making a pouch that completely encases the
prosthetic and then rests securely inside of your regular bra.

:) Organizing Your Sewing Space - How To Set Up Your Very Own Sewing Studio

Author: Hector Milla

If you are planning to take up sewing as a full-time career then you need to set up your very own space to accommodate your sewing needs and privacy. Your special place could be your kitchen or a separate room depending on your need for privacy.

Having all your sewing needs laid out in a quiet corner of your house is not only appealing, but also convenient.

Choosing a quiet corner in your home

Romina Abrigo Editor of the "Sewing Machines For Sale" website -- http://www.sewingmachinesforsale.me/ -- pointed out;
"…Most of us who are into sewing jump from one place to another depending on what we need. We might stay a while in the kitchen while we measure or cut fabrics, adjourn to the living room when we need a comfortable place to sew, and go back to the kitchen in case we need to iron out the fabric - quite tiring especially if you're in a big house..." Added Romina Abrigo

When choosing a room for your sewing activity, you need to make sure that it's big enough to accommodate you and your sewing materials. It must have enough storage space like cabinets and drawers for your fabrics, threads, needles and ribbons. It's also a necessity to have a long table accessible on all sides for measuring and cutting; a comfortable chair or couch to sit on if you need to relax; a sewing machine, and finally an ironing board.

Considering all these, you definitely will need a bigger room for a fully-operational sewing studio.

Basic sewing studio layout and what's in it!

When planning for a room to convert into a sewing studio, you need to take note of one aspect: convenience. You need to make sure that all of your sewing gear and materials are all stored in an organized way.

First off, you need to put the long table in the middle of the room. Since you need plenty of space to move around as you stretch out the fabric, measuring and cutting out patterns.

Once that's settled and done, you need to put in cabinets so that you can store all your fabrics and cloths for your sewing. Drawers with different compartments could be very handy for your ribbons, floss, bobbins, needles, scissors, laces and buttons. You might need multiple drawers for segregation purposes.

Your sewing machine should be placed in an area where you have plenty of light and easy access to all your sewing materials. It was a common practice in olden times to place the sewing machine right under the window, not only would this location give you enough light while you sew, you can readily look out the window when you want to give your eyes a break.

It's also advisable to have pegs placed on the walls to hang things like cloths, dresses, or clothes that you are working on. Not only does this reduce clutter, you won't need to iron them if they get wrinkled.

A man-sized mannequin and a large mirror are both a necessity in a sewing studio. A mannequin allows you to design clothes and dresses with the proper curves that a man/woman should have; and the mirror is perfect if you want to test out how your designs would look.

Proper sewing studio flooring

Carpets are a big no when it comes to designing your sewing studio. It's a general agreement among sewers that thick carpets are a nuisance rather than a comfort. It has been the case that a lot of things tend to end up on the floor as we sew like needles, pins, buttons, clips, etc. Try looking for a needle in a thick carpet.

Most sewers advice a painted floor, especially dark colored ones like black, dark blue or even green which are convenient and not too expensive to clean.
"…When planning out for your very own sewing studio, you need not rush. Take time to consider how you want your studio to look, and how you want your materials to be arranged. This could save you a lot of time and money, especially when you plan on renovating…" Added Romina Abrigo

Further information, resources and reviews of the best and cheap sewing machines for sale by clicking: http://www.sewingmachinesforsale.me/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gadgets-and-gizmos-articles/organizing-your-sewing-space-how-to-set-up-your-very-own-sewing-studio-2543114.html

About the Author

Hector Milla runs his corporate website at http://www.opsregs.com/ where you can see all his articles and press releases.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

:) Sewing Patterns

Author: David

Sewing Patterns

Sewing is such a hobby that is passed on from generations to generations. When it comes to sewing, many of us find it quite a use of free time whereas some others find it a learning experience. Whatever the quest is but sewing provides one relaxation and beneficial use of time which can in return save handsome money. Moreover a sewing project is a task which demands some handy skills as well as creativity. For those who enjoy sewing, it can be a wonderful way to make the thoughts in our mind come to reality. The biggest supports to your hobby are the sewing patterns, about which this article is meant to provide you more information with.

Most of us involved in sewing are very well aware of the sewing pattern which puts down each unique design and allows you to sew from it like a pre designed template. Sewing patterns are so popular today that you can easily find any sewing pattern that you could ever think of is available in any one of the many fabric stores in most parts of the United States. Even if you are serious in finding your favorite sewing pattern you can easily lay your hands on them by visiting number of websites dedicated to selling fabric and patterns for online purchase.

Sewing patterns can be used to make everything from clothes to pillow covers to curtains. With the help of sewing patterns you can create whatever you want for you or your home without much skill. That means whether you are a veteran or just starting out, a sewing pattern can help you organize your project. A sewing pattern is designed in such a way that as a beginner you will be perfectly sure where to cut, where to trace, and where to sew. If you really keen to begin with sewing but are not sure with complex sewing patterns, then there are simple sewing patterns that will guide you with step-by-step procedure through the task. One you get enough skilled with your sewing skills, you can take in more complex patterns that can assist in more complicated designs and projects.

If you are interested in free cross-stitch patterns or quilt patterns or crochet ponchos patterns, then not only can you buy them online but can also procure them for free. Sounds amazing, but in reality there are many stores and online shops that offer the sewing and various other patterns for free. There is a large number of websites that not only provide you with free sewing patterns but also help you with valuable information on sewing patterns and other sewing projects. With many of the popular websites you can download the sewing patterns onto your computer to print later. Then there are various forums which are places you can join for free, and can interact with other sewing hobbyist to exchange information and resources ion sewing patterns. You will be able to ask questions and get advice.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/sewing-patterns-251170.html

About the Author

Looking for more information on Sewing Patterns check out http://www.blogger.com/“www.SEWING-PATTERNS.NET” your guide to Sewing Patterns.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

:) Tips to Learn Tailoring at Home

Author: Sauna Nielson

If you don't find a nice dress in the market, what do you do? You probably buy a fabric and go to a tailor so that he or she can stitch a dress that will suit your taste and flatter your figure. At times you may also do a little bit of embroidery work on the dress yourself. Well, if you know sewing, you can think of tailoring a dress yourself.

What does a tailor do? He or she either designs and stitches clothes or alters them or repairs them. In most of the cases they have their own shops or they work in department stores. Some of them may also work from home. Well tailoring business is a good option for people who have enough spare time at hand and who like doing creative tasks. Besides it can help them to earn some extra money.

If you are in a similar situation you can think of learning how to tailor clothes. Initially you may stitch your own clothes. Gradually you can enter this industry and spread the word that you are into this business.

Learning how to tailor clothes is not a difficult task, especially these days, when you don't even need to go out of your house to attend classes. Several books are available in the market. Going through them will help you to learn the basic things. Besides you can check the online tailoring tutorials. Most of the tutorials are free. If you want to attend the advanced courses, you may opt for the paid tutorials.

Though you can learn from the comfort at your home, it is always better to choose a local tailoring school or individual. This is important because if you don't understand any particular thing you can meet the teacher personally and clarify your doubts. So when you search for schools offering online lessons, look for local tailoring schools that offer offline classes as well. For example if you live in places like Pembroke Pines or Miami you should look for Tailor Pembroke Pines and Tailor Miami respectively.

Once you choose an online course and buy reference books, it's time to start the process. Buy a sewing machine along with some sewing supplies. Since you are a beginner, a basic sewing machine will be ideal for you. A machine that can sew straight stitch, zigzag stitch, reverse stitch and can make button holes will be the right option for you.

You should also buy a sharp sewing scissor and extra needles. Make sure you have threads in different colors. Another thing that you will need is a dressmaker's measuring tape. Measure a cloth twice before you cut it. Also become acquainted with the sewing machine before you start sewing a garment.

When you start tailoring a cloth, you should wear eye protection because needle can cause accidents. Handle the needle carefully and keep the spare needles in a safe place while you work. These safety measures will help you to concentrate on your lesson.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/clothing-articles/tips-to-learn-tailoring-at-home-4729805.html

About the Author

Ethan Rosson is a tailoring expert. He has numerous blogs dedicated to topics like tailoring Miami, Tailor Pembroke Pines etc. For more information on tailoring he suggests you to visit http://sudsies.com/

Saturday, June 11, 2011

:) Simple Hand-Sewing Techniques for the Girl Who's All Thumbs

Author: Alison Wood

Hand-sewing is not a skill that's commonly taught anymore. To this day, my mom can't sew a stitch (not even a button!). I learned the basics in home economics, although these days they rely more heavily on machines to get a straight line and neat, even stitches. However, unless you want to become a very good customer at your local alterations shop (or toss your favorite shirt when it loses a button), you should at least learn the basics of sewing by hand. Here are a few simple techniques to get you on your way (who knows, you could become a quilting master!).

1. Running stitch. This is about as basic as it gets and it involves sewing in and out of the fabric in a straight line (to produce a sort of dotted line effect upon completion). Now, it may sound easy, but women of generations past prided themselves on their ability to sew these stitches so small and neat that they were practically invisible. If you're just starting, focus instead on keeping your line from wobbling. This stitch is good for seams.

2. Backstitch. This is just a more complicated running stitch. To accomplish it, you will start with one regular stitch (stitch up, then down) and when you come back up for the second stitch, instead of continuing forward, you'll go back through the previous down-stitch hole. Then you'll come up forward of the previous stitch, and go back again so that the effect (on the top side) is an unbroken line. It is like a reinforced version of the running stitch, but it's doubly important to get it straight.

3. Over-sewing. This stitch is really useful for fraying ends, but can also be used on a seam in a pinch. All you do is sew up (near the edge of the fabric) loop the thread over the top, and sew up again. The end result will be loop after loop of thread going around the outside edge of the fabric to hold everything in.

4. Whip stitch. If, like me, you constantly find yourself in need of a different hem length, you are going to love this stitch. It's sort of like a combination of the running stitch and over-sewing. To begin, you'll fold your hem to the length you desire (probably after you have torn out the previous stitching). Then sew into the edge of the hem and through the outside layer of fabric, and back in, making as small of a stitch on the outside as you can (the goal is to make it nearly invisible). Although the outside stitches will be very small, the ones on the inside of the hem will be fairly far apart (it might also be called tacking). This is sort of a quick and dirty stitch, but since it is unseen, you don't have to take too many labors to make it pretty.

5. Quilter's knot. You may be wondering, when you reach the end of a line of stitches, how to stop your thread from going right back the way it came. To this end, a quilter's knot is extremely useful as it is a sturdy, simple, nearly invisible finishing technique. You just wrap your thread around the shaft of the needle three times, pull it tight, and then push the needle through the fabric (and the loops of thread). Pull it tight, or if the fabric is loose, pop it through to the other side. I've never entirely understood how this works, but I swear it does (although it might take a little practice to accomplish). Just mentally thank whatever sewing genius came up with it and use it often!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/education-articles/simple-hand-sewing-techniques-for-the-girl-whos-all-thumbs-2993395.html

About the Author

Do you love arts and crafts? The Art of Crafts blog brings you design ideas, how-to articles, fascinating interviews and previews of fellow crafters' creations. Take a look today ==> http://art-of-crafts.net/

Monday, June 6, 2011

:) Upcycle an Old Pants Leg Into a Small Tote Bag

Not every upcycling job is a major undertaking. You can turn the leg of an old pair of pants into a small tote bag with just a few sewing steps. 

Cut the leg off about two feet above the pant-leg's ankle. (This isn't an exact science, so if you want a longer tote bag, cut the leg off up higher.)

Sew across the ankle opening. (If the hem is too thick, fold it under or cut it off so you do not damage your sewing machine.)

Fold the top edge under twice, making sure the second fold is at least 1.5 inches. 

Sew close to the lower folded edge, but leave a one inch gap in the seam, making sure to backtack thoroughly on each end of the seam. 

Clip a bodkin or big safety pin on the end of an old shoe string or piece of nylon rope. 

Feed the bodkin or pin into the opening, and work it all the way through the folded and stitched casing. 

Remove the bodkin or pin, and tie the ends of the shoelace or rope together. 

Your tote bag is ready to go, giving you a new bag and keeping the old garment out of the landfill. 

Now what are you going to do with with the rest of the pants? How about a purse from the seat of the pants and grocery bag holder from the other leg?

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

:) Handbags, Purses, and Messenger Bags

The Value of Home Sewing Accessories


Learning to make "carry all" accessories is a geat way to get a bag that has the quality of a designer handbag, purse, or tote while only paying the price of a cheap bag.

Obtaining a high quality designer bag is an exciting goal for many fashion consumers. Possessing a designer bag is both a status symbol and a source of pride. Fashionistas spend considerable time and money getting designer bags. Time is spent selecting the perfect bag, asking for outside opinions, and earning the money to buy the bag. There are even websites where visitors can post photos of an admired bag to get the opinions of strangers - so they don't waste their money on "seriously ugly" bags.

Why Sewing a Handbag, Purse, or Messenger Bag at Home Is Worthwhile

 
Shelling out big money for a designer bag might seem worthwhile in some instances. Anyone who has, however, had the experience of a child or a pet getting sick on a purse or tote bag - or a pen leaking indelible ink - will probably not seriously consider paying top dollar for a handbag. Making a "designer" handbag, purse, or tote bag is a great way to get a high quality bag made in the perfect fabric without spending top dollar on an item that is easily ruined.

The Advantage of Making a Messenger Bag

 
A messenger bag is basically a tote bag with a couple of extra features like a zipper or storage pocket. Messenger bags are probably the easiest type of bag for a beginner to make. The lines are simple and the bag produced is versatile. Selecting a durable fabric or good quality leather will help to ensure the messenger bag will have the strength to be used for a long time. A really hesitant new sewing machine operator might want to start with a super easy drawstring bag or basic shopping tote bag. These are even easier to make than the messenger bag because they require no closures and no pockets.

Skill Level Required to Make Purses and Handbags

 
Purses and handbags are generally more detailed, with pockets and a lining. The extra features make them sewing projects for those individuals with a higher level of sewing skill – though it is not an impossible goal for someone beginning a sewing journey. It is easy to find sewing patterns that are designed for beginners because pattern makers label their patterns with information regarding ease or difficulty. Patterns labeled as easy make it possible for almost anyone to make their own designer quality handbags and purses at home.

More advanced handcrafters might see a handbag and then make a pattern rather than purchasing one. This is actually much easier than it sounds for experienced sewing aficionados. It is simply not a task that is right for someone who is learning how to sew for the first time.

Seeing a purse that is attractive and trying to copy it without a purchased pattern is basically making a knock off. The finished purse should look very similar to the original design if attention is paid to details. As long as the original is not actually used as a pattern the handbag will still be the unique creation of the person who makes it.

Making a handbag also gives the maker the satisfying experience of designing and crafting a handbag with features that are "just right" and out of the perfect fabric to fit one's personal style. Sewing accessories like messenger bags, handbags, and purses is a fun, inexpensive, and satisfying way to obtain a designer handbag.

Copyright Laure Justice. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication. Originally published on Suite101.com.

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