May 9, 2008 Sewing + Fashion Project
I love a good tote. One with lots of room. And perfect-sized pockets for all the things that I want to tote around. As sewers, we know the best way to get that good tote is to make it ourselves. So here, kind reader, is a tote project just for you.
It comes from the book Quilted Bags and Totes by Denise Clason. The distinctive designs, diverse fabrics, easy-to-follow techniques featured in this spectacularly illustrated guide give you the techniques and inspiration to create your own stylish—yet practical—bags. Inside you will find, a diverse selection of casual, working, dressy and sporty bags, more than 175 detailed color photos and illustrations that show each detail and full-size tissue paper patterns.
To download a free pdf for this project, click here.
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To purchase a copy of Quilted Bags and Totes by Denise Clason, click here for US sales and here for UK sales.
Am I sitting comfortably?!
Hi - Jen here again! Am recovering from a weekend painting my kitchen chairs (or at least sanding, cleaning and priming them). When does the fun coloured paint bit begin!? Anyway, while picking out paint colours (pale blue and green) my mind naturally drifted to fabric - how could I incorporate some? So thought I'd make some cushion covers and add comfy padding to the seats. There are lots of slipcover and cushion projects about, so started by flicking through Custom Slip Covers Made Easy and Slipcover Style. I think cushions might be the best way to go, adding ties to keep them on the chairs and maybe some cute covered buttons.
Well, I'm off soon to start on the painting bit (finally), which will give me more time to dream of fabric . . .
May 2, 2008 Sewing + Fashion Project
OK. How adorable are these guys? Made from two washcloths each, these bath mitts are super easy to make and, again, absolutely adorable.
The project comes from the book Sip ‘n Sew by Diane Dhein. In it she shares delightful patterns for gifts for your family and friends, while serving up delicious drinks sure to tempt your taste buds. Inside you’ll find 24 project for the home (including table mats, wall hangings, tissue covers and more) and 20 drink recipes.
Since this project falls in the chapter titled Cool Concoctions and Crafts for Kids, the recipe that accompanies it is a healthy and energizing Banana Berry Bounce. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
1/2 cup orange juice
2 frozen bananas
1 cup sliced strawberries, washed and hulled
2-3 tablespoons honey (to taste)
Whole strawberries
Directions:
1. Place all ingredients except whole strawberries in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into glasses and garnish with a whole strawberry on each glass.
To download a free pdf of this project, click here.
To purchase a copy of Sip ‘n Sew, click here for US sales, and here for UK sales.
Remember each free project is available for only one week, so download it today!
April 25, 2008 Sewing + Fashion Project
As I mentioned in a blog post from last week, I’m a bit obsessed with window treatments. So I was intrigued when I came across this project in the book Happy Voodoo Gris Gris. The book features 30 projects for bringing the world of dreams, magic and charms into your life. You’ll learn the meanings behind the charms, talismans and materials used in projects—including a table runner to scare away demons, a talisman t-shirt, a wishing tree and an anti-worry kit—as well as how to make them.
This window decoration defends the door or window it covers against spirits that could intrude. I love the latticework detail that gives it a soft and serene feel. Can you see this adorning a bedroom window (well, along with a shade)? I think I can…

To purchase a copy of Happy Voodoo Gris Gris, click here.
April 18, 2008 Sewing + Fashion project
Spring has officially sprung here in the southern Ohio. The trees are in bloom as are the daffodils, crocus and now tulips. Hooray!
Whether it’s spring in your part of the world or not, there’s nothing like flowers and blooms to add a little bit of happiness to your day. And sewing those blooms yourself is easy with this week’s free sewing pattern! I can see a flower like this adorning just about anything I make from quilts to scrapbook layouts.
The project comes from Sew It In Minutes, perfect for those creatives who want to make something quick so that they can still spend some time playing outside. In the book you’ll find stylish projects to sew whether you have an hour to spare or an entire evening. From a flannel throw quilt to a tote bag, these projects are practical and perfect for gifts. Author Chris Malone provides easy-to-follow instructions along with the estimated time it will take to complete each project. Whether you love to sew for yourself or create personalized gifts for friends and family, these projects will fit your style and schedule.
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To purchase a copy of Sew It In Minutes by Chris Malone, click here in the US and here in the UK.
Remember, this free project is available for one week only, so download it today!












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