15+ Fabulous Patterns for Fall!

September 14, 2020September 15, 20205 Comments

Sewing and Quilting for the Fall Season is a perfect time to make something special for yourself or for others. While we watch the leaves drop and the sky turn to grey, now is the perfect opportunity to use up some scraps or cut into that special fabric you have been saving! Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

let nature inspire you

Most of these patterns are fun and simple. Some patterns require a little more “know how”. If you’ve ever tried foundation paper piecing, you will know how great these projects can be! Not only do they turn out PERFECT, but they can also be added to other blocks to make a larger project! I just loved these different patterns:

Mushroom Foundation Paper Pieced Pattern Set

Mushroom Foundation Paper Piecing Sewing and Quilt Block Patterns by EtiveAndCo. Perfect for Fall Projects! I love how these finished blocks are set in embroidery hoops! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Mushroom Foundation Paper Piecing Patterns by EtiveAndCo

Paper Pieced Squirrel FTW!!!

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Paper Pieced Squirrel - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

This cute squirrel has lots of character and is a challenging but fun make. Use the finished block as a mini quilt or as part of a larger creation. Think of all the scraps you can use up!! The PDF also includes instructions to scale-up the pattern to make a quilt of any size. Pattern by Diane Lawrence with Etive & Co.

Maple Leaf Quilt Block

The Maple Leaf Quilt Block is the perfect block for the Fall Season! This pattern includes 3 different sizes, plus a video tutorial to help you along! Pattern by Nicole with Sew Much Moore

Small projects make quick finishes!

There is no need to make a huge fuss about these fun and seasonal projects! Just pick one or two of them and get started! They are fun and addicting!

Hazel the Hedgehog

Elizabeth Hartman’s Hazel Hedgehog Pattern – While they might not be as soft and cuddly like a kitten they certainly are cute whether in real life or interpreted in fabric on a quilt

Geometric Fall Leaf FPP Pattern

Geometric Leaf Foundation Paper Piecing FPP Quilt Block Pattern by Center Street Quilts.

Barn Mini Quilt

Make this Barn Mini Quilt and hang it on your wall for the season! This also makes a great Table Topper!

scrap busting projects ftw!

If you keep your fabric scraps (like many of us do) – these simple projects are perfect for you! Grab your Oranges, Browns, Greens and Reds to create something Fabulous for Fall!

Pumpkin Paper Pieced Pattern

This is a cute pumpkin paper pieced quilt pattern. This block comes together in 10 sections, and finishes to either 12x12 or 20x20 inches. Patterns By Shaley

This is a cute pumpkin paper pieced quilt pattern. This block comes together in 10 sections, and finishes to either 12×12 or 20×20 inches. Patterns By Shaley

Gobble Gobble Turkey Pillow Cover

What’s Thanksgiving without a turkey? The Gobble Gobble Turkey Pillow Cover uses traditional piecing techniques (no foundation paper piecing) and finishes at 18″ x 18″. Instructions for turning the Turkey quilt block into a pillow cover are included, although the turkey would be darling as a mini quilt, table topper, or as a block in a throw quilt, too. Pattern by Center Street Quilts

Mod Owls by Sew Kind of Wonderful

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Mod Owls - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Sew Kind Of Wonderful QCR Mod Owls Pattern- This pattern uses both the Quick Curve Ruler and the Quick Curve Mini Ruler (both sold separately). These adorable owls have a very modern look with their clean lines and simplistic design. All curves are pieced

ps – you will need the Large Quick Curve Ruler and also the Mini Quick Curve Ruler for this pattern. You can check these out in my SHOP.

Fall Felt Ornament Pattern

This is an adorable pattern for two felt ornament designs. A folksy candy corn and a pumpkin with mushroom. Both designs are included. Finished Ornaments measure approximately 4” x 7” without ribbon hanger. Pattern by Simply Eilene.

Fall Quilt Block Pattern Bundle

These are the perfect Fall pattern bundle for NOW! Leaf, Squirrel, Pumpkin, Lantern, Scarecrow, Fire, Owl, Turkey, Hedgehog, Picnic, Roast Turkey, and Pie. Patterns come in both 6" and 12" sizes. Patterns are by Burlap Blossom Patterns.

Set of 12 Quilt Block Patterns: Leaf, Squirrel, Pumpkin, Lantern, Scarecrow, Fire, Owl, Turkey, Hedgehog, Picnic, Roast Turkey, and Pie. Patterns come in both 6″ and 12″ sizes. Patterns are by Burlap Blossom Patterns.

Candy Corn Quilt Block

The Candy Corn quilt block pattern is a beginning FPP pattern that assumes a basic knowledge of paper piecing. The pattern is clearly labeled, has colored graphics, and full size pattern pieces with a 1/4″ seam allowance included. It finishes as a 3″ x 3″ or 6″ x 6″ block and would be perfect to add to your next Halloween or Fall project. This block is by Center Street Quilts.

Two Sizes in this Acorn Quilt Block!

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Acorn Quilt Block Pattern - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

Gather up your fabrics to make lots of these adorable Acorn Quilt Blocks! There are two sizes included in this pattern! This pattern is by Ellisa and Higgs

Fancy Fox Tote Bag

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall - Fancy Fox - Let me share some really great patterns and inspiration with you so you can start creating! Check out these 15 fabulous patterns for fall! #simple #TableRunners #AutumnLeaves #JellyRolls #WallHangings #FallQuiltBlocks #Quilting #ColorCombos #Fabric #PaperPiecing #Fun #Easy #Quick #pattern

I incorporated a Fancy Fox Quilt Block into a panel for a Tote and I couldn’t be happier! Click the picture to see my finished project!

Botanicals Embroidery Pattern

This pattern is ideal for intermediate level stitchers as well as beginners with some knowledge of common embroidery techniques. She include lots of step by step photos to guide you through the entire stitching process. The pattern is designed for a 4″ hoop (it can be used with a different size hoop – you can resize the pattern sheet in your printer settings. Pattern by Matryoshka Doll Shop

I don’t know about you, but I am excited about all the Fall sewing and quilting possibilities! I’ve already made the Fancy Fox Tote and the Barn Mini Quilt….. I think my scraps are beckoning to be made into something Fabulous!!

Tell us in the comments if you have tried any of these fun projects!

Happy Stitches!

The Ooo Quilt

August 26, 2020August 27, 202015 Comments

The Ooo Quilt is a modern and fun project! This is another custom quilt I made for a very lucky High School Graduate! The Ooo Quilt was chosen from one of my Missouri Star Quilt Company Block books. This was from Volume 1, issue 4. In the book, this quilt was called “Jump Rings”. We decided to use the school colors (orange and black), so the quilt could also pose as a Halloween Quilt. The school mascot is a Pirate, so the skull and crossbones fabric worked out perfectly! Let me show you all about this quilt so you can make one too!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

THE ooo QUILT – MATERIALS LIST

Missouri Star Quilt Company Block Magazine (Volume 1, Issue 4)
Qty (1) Jelly Roll
- I cheated and cut up my own fabric and some specific Kona Solids that my client chose.
Qty (2.5) yards of background fabric (Pewter)
Qty (1.25) yards of border fabric (Carrot)
Qty (.5) yards of binding fabric (Pewter)
Qty (2.5) yards of backing fabric (more Pewter)
Cotton batting (this is the exact batting I used)

THE ooo QUILT – SUPPLY LIST

Sewing Machine with a quarter inch presser foot
Cotton Thread (I recommend Aurifil 50 wt)
Rotary Cutter with sharp blade (no kidding about a sharp blade)
Acrylic Ruler
Cutting Mat
Iron & Ironing Board with a Wool Pressing Mat
Sewing Pins or Wonder Clips

Be sure to check out my Amazon Shop to get all your Quilty supplies!

THE ooo QUILT – ASSEMBLY

Be sure to get yourself a copy of the Block Magazine. In the pattern, you will find all the details for assembly. The process is really simple. Deciding upon the layout was fun. It took me several times to finally settle upon a layout!

I numbered my rows, after I decided on the layout. That really helps me to keep things straight when I get the blocks back to the machine for sewing.

THE 000 QUILT – ALMOST FINISHED!

Once I had my quilt top assembled, I drove to my friend’s house to rent some time on her wonderful long arm quilting machine. Once you use a long arm quilting machine – it’s difficult to go back to quilting on your domestic (just sayin’). I know everyone doesn’t have a long arm option, so you can always use free motion quilting on your domestic. It’s simple! Be sure you have a Darning Foot! There are different kinds, based upon the shaft of your specific machine. I always love my time with my friend’s long arm machine! I would love to have one of my own, but I have NO ROOM! Maybe someday! Until then, I hope to keep Tia Curtis as a close quilty friend! She is so helpful and wonderfully talented! She even took this fun picture of me (with the pile of quilts I accomplished in one day)!

Once I sewed on the binding, I could not wait to take some pictures of this amazing quilt! I convinced my husband to help me take some pictures of the finished quilt. We took a drive to the Powell Gardens for some scenic pictures. It is such a great location! I liked this picture the best! What do you think?

Making The Ooo Quilt was fun and easy! I just loved making it and my customer loved the result! Yay!

If I were ever to make this quilt again, I think I might simply use a Jelly Roll. That would certainly make the process much quicker. I hope you try to make one of these quilts.

Happy Quilting!

Hand Binding a Quilt

August 19, 2020August 19, 20202 Comments

Binding a quilt by hand can be a very relaxing and therapudic process.

Hand Binding a quilt is the final step in finishing your quilt. Before you bind, you will have quilted your quilt. You can see how I quilted this particular quilt right here. Once your quilt is quilted, you will make your binding and attach the binding to your quilt. I’ve demonstrated this step right here.

Now that your binding is attached, all that is left is to hand stitch the binding to your quilt! Be sure to review the materials that I use to bind a quilt by hand and don’t forget to watch the video tutorial at the end of this article!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Thread (I like this brand)
Needles (Click HERE to see which are my favorite))

Thimble (Poke-A-Dots Sticky Thimbles, Clover Leather Coin Thimble, or a Dritz Leather Thimble
Wonder Clips
Small Scissors (I used these scissors in the video)

Threading the Needle

Once you have your supplies ready you need to thread your needle. This particular needle has a larger eye than most needles. Simply push the thread through the eye of the needle. Give yourself about 18 inches of thread. If you get too much more thread than that you will be doing too much work with your arm and binding will get tiresome.

To make a knot, take the end of your thread and twist around your finger like the image above. Move your thumb along your finger, which causes the thread to twist. Pull the thread with your thumb and index finger to form your knot. Magic!

Basic Binding Stitch

To prepare for binding your quilt – take your binding and fold it over, then secure it with clips. You don’t need to clip the whole quilt ( or even a large section) – just a few clips will work just fine. You can move these clips through the progress of your binding.

Start your needle next to the raw edge of your quilt and under the binding fold. Make sure you knot is hidden under the folded binding. Next, make a stitch on your quilt and catch the very edge of the folded binding with your needle. Pull your thread all the way through and continue this simple whip stitch until you get to a corner.

Conquering the Corner

Begin like your basic whip stitch and come out and up through the mitered bottom corner of the top folded binding. Take another stitch from near that same position and come out and up through the corner of the quilt. Make sure that you catch the top binding on your way up and the bottom piece on your way back down. Continue with the basic binding whip stitch through the rest of the side.

The Final Knot

I call this the Loop-de-loop! Simply make a large loop and bring your thread back through that same loop. Take your needle and catch that second thread and pull your needle all the way through until a final knot is formed.

You will need to make this same knot, several times throughout the hand binding process. I mean, 18″ of thread will only take you so far! I think it is much easier to learn this finishing trick and all the other techniques by watching the video.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Hand Binding your Quilt is a very rewarding exercise in creativity! I hope you found this article and video tutorial helpful!

Happy Quilting!

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Adding Binding to your Quilt

August 5, 2020August 5, 20202 Comments

I love finishing and adding binding to your quilt means we are getting closer to the finish! Let’s dive into the details of adding binding to your quilt and don’t forget to watch the video tutorial at the end!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Materials List

Thread (I like this brand)
Needles (Click HERE to see which are my favorite))

Basic Supply List

Thimble (Poke-A-Dots Sticky Thimbles, Clover Leather Coin Thimble, or a Dritz Leather Thimble
Wonder Clips
Small Scissors (I used these scissors in the video)

Prepare the Binding

Once we have our binding made, we need to prepare to attach it to our quilt.

Take your binding strip and fold it wrong sides together. Give this a good pressing all along the length of the binding strip.

Attach the Binding

To attach the binding to your quilt take the raw edge of your folded binding and clip it to the raw edge of your trimmed quilt. Use clips to secure this to your quilt.

Measure about 6 inches from the end of your binding strip as your sewing starting point.

Next, you will sew your binding to your quilt top. I’m using a seam guide to ensure I have the correct seem allowance. I’m using a quarter inch seam allowance.

Sew the binding onto your quilt and stop just before you come to your first corner.

Turning the Corner

Take your binding strip and fold a diagonal line while bringing the fabric strip up into a perpendicular position to the the already attached binding. Bring the binding strip back down (in the opposite direction) while aligning your fabric to the top and side corner of your quilt.

Position the binding strip a long the raw edge and continue sewing until you get to the next corner.

Repeat this process for each corner of your quilt.

Joining the Binding

Once you get close to the place you started attaching your binding, you will leave about a 12 inch gap.

Now we will join our binding ends together. First we will butt each strip together and make a mark on one of the strips. Cut off the excess fabric on the marked strip. Unless you remember the width of your prepared binding strips, you need to measure the width of the binding,

Take the other binding strip and lay it over the strip you just cut. Measure from where the cut strip starts to the measured width of the binding strip and make another mark. Trim off the excess.

You will want at least 12 inches of un-sewn binding. you’ll take that excess, gather up most of the slack and clip it. Open up your binding strips and pin them together . Take your ruler and mark a sewing line. Sew along the line to join the binding strips.

Remove the clips and pins and lay your joined binding strip against your Quilt top to make sure the length is correct before you cut any excess from your joined a binding.

Open up the seam you just created and then continue attaching the binding to your quilt.

WATCH THE VIDEO

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and maybe even learned something new!

Until next time! Happy Stitches!

Making Striped Binding for Quilts

June 24, 2020June 26, 20206 Comments

Striped binding for quilts is a very popular choice. More and more modern and contemporary quilters are choosing striped binding, but sometimes struggle with matching the striped lines. In this tutorial, I will show you how to align the stripes on your fabric binding, tips for marking your sewing lines and finally sewing the fabric strips together. Be sure to watch my helpful video at the end of this article.

Learn how to match binding stripes and watch the video tutorial too!

SUPPLY LIST

Thread (I like this brand)
Needles (Click HERE to see which are my favorite))

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

Thimble (Poke-A-Dots Sticky Thimbles, Clover Leather Coin Thimble, or a Dritz Leather Thimble
Wonder Clips
Small Scissors (I used these scissors in the video)

Aligning the Strips

The fabric I chose for my binding has large stripes, which makes it easier to match. The tricky part is that while some of the stripes are solid, others are designed with a fading effect. To start the aligning process, place the first strip of binding on a surface that can accept a sewing pin. I recommend a Wool Pressing Mat. Lay the first strip right side up. Take the next fabric strip and place it on top of the first, in a perpendicular manner (right sides together). The adjoining fabric strip should be placed with the vast majority of the excess at the top of your perpendicular setting. I auditioned different sections of the joining strip to get the best alignment with the stripes. Still having the majority of the adjoining fabric strip going out the top. Once I found a good match, I secured this position with sewing pins.

Marking the Sewing Line

Using your small acrylic ruler and frixion pen, mark the sewing line. This line will begin at the bottom left intersection and end at the top right intersection. If you have the majority of your adjoining fabric coming out the bottom of your perpendicular setting – you will mark your sewing line from the top left to bottom right. You will essentially be drawing a diagonal line. Be extra careful to make your mark in the appropriate direction, otherwise your next step will not turn out like you planned. Once you’ve marked your sewing line, you can re-adjust your sewing pin placement and prepare for sewing.

Sewing the Strips together

The last step in this process is definitely the easiest! Simply sew the line you just marked. You can back-stitch at the beginning and end of each section if you want. These raw edges will eventually find their way into the seams of a quilt. Continue to join binding strips until you have enough to complete your project. Trim the excess fabric and press your seams open. Repeat the process for each binding strip you add.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Using striped binding is one of my favorite ways to finish a quilt! Stay tuned for an upcoming post and video where I show you how to attach your binding to your quilt!

Until then, Happy Quilting!

Cat Faces Quilt

June 3, 2020June 3, 20208 Comments

In this tutorial, I will show how I made my Cat Quilt! This is a whimsical art quilt that incorporates machine appliqué. I have always been a cat person! I wouldn’t go as far to say that I’m a “Cat Lady” because I only have one cat. I had so much fun making this truly unique quilt. Let me show you how I made it!

Learn all about making a Cat Faces Quilt! See how the finished quilt turns out! #CatFacesQuilt #RawEdgeApplique #ModernQuilts #SewMuchMoore

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

The Cat Faces concept and process is an original idea by Melissa Averinos. I took a full day class with Melissa, who is a wonderful instructor. If you ever get a chance to learn from Melissa – I highly recommend her! You can learn more about Melissa RIGHT HERE.

I truly enjoyed getting to know Melissa and learning about her process. This article is just a simple overview of what her full day class covered. Be sure to check out Melissa on her website!

Designing the cats

Line Drawing for Cat Faces Quilt. This is the first step in the design process for the Cat Faces Quilt. See how the finished quilt turns out! #CatFacesQuilt #RawEdgeApplique #ModernQuilts #SewMuchMoore

Melissa instructed us to make simple line drawings of cat faces. As you can see – I will not be doing any tutorials on drawing! LOL! Actually, the simpler the drawing – the easier it is to make out of fabric!

Creating the Cat

The second part of the process was cutting out the fabric and layering the different elements of the cat face. We initially used a washable glue stick, but later I added Misty Fuse to make the pieces more secure.

Using a temporary adhesive, such as a glue stick, helped me decide how I wanted each cat face to look. Check out the progression of this cat… Just by moving his eyelids – he takes on an entirely different appearance!

Raw Edge Applique

I used my J-350 LongArm Quilting machine to quilt this project. The 18” throat space gives me loads of room to move the quilt underneath the needle.

Initially I spent way too much time worrying about how I was going to quilt this project. In the end, I decided to leave the edges raw. My thinking is that because this is a wall hanging – I wont need to worry too much about the fabric fraying.

This quilting machine is truly wonderful, especially for smaller sewing spaces. What’s really nice is that the head of the machine is completely removable and can be attached to a quilting frame. I’m sure that when my kids are all grown and finished with college, I will be able to take over one of their bedrooms!

I used my open toe foot and also my ruler foot. I switched feet when it made sense and I was happy with the results. I don’t even know why I spent so much time worrying about how to quilt this quilt!

WATCH THE VIDEO

Be sure to watch my video tutorial and checkout some of the tips in action!

Stay tuned for my next installment of this quilt. I will be using striped binding to finish it off! Be sure to sign up for my weekly Newsletter and you won’t miss a post! You can signup below!

Until next time – Happy Sewing!

DIY Travel Pillow Cases

May 27, 2020May 28, 20202 Comments

With warmer weather quickly approaching, now is a perfect time to make a few DIY Travel Pillow Cases! This fun and easy method will allow you to make one for each person in your family. They make great gifts too! Let me show you how!

Get your cutting measurements!

Option 1: Download for free. If you sign up for my Weekly Newsletter, you will get the cutting measurements and written directions for free! If you are already a subscriber – no worries! You won’t be double subscribed!

Option 2: Purchase this PDF pattern

Use this link to purchase the fabric cutting instructions. You’ll be emailed a download link for a file that references the instructions in this tutorial and provides the cutting measurements for this pattern. You’ll also be able to purchase this file in my shop.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Here are the materials you will need to make a Travel Pillow Case:

DIY Travel Pillow Case – Materials List

Pillow Case Pattern
Qty (1) 12” x 16” Pillow Form
½ Yard of Fabric for your Main Print (*Royals Fabric)
- Check out my selection of “sporty fabric” from My online fabric shop
¼ Yard of Fabric for your Pillowcase Band (French Blue)
1/8 Yard of Fabric for your Pillowcase Trim (White)

DIY Travel Pillow Case – Basic Supplies

Sewing Machine (Here is my favorite machine)
A thread that coordinates your project (I use Aurifil 50 wt)
Sharp Fabric Scissors (I love these scissors)
Straight pins or wonder clips

Download my pattern for your cutting instructions and have a great time making your DIY Travel Pillow Case! If you like video instructions; check out this video, which follows the same steps. Please note that the video is showing you how to make a full-sized pillowcase. The steps for the DIY Travel Pillow Case size are the same (just smaller).

Let me share a few pictures of some great group sewing events we had. All the participants made their own DIY Travel Pillow Case! Aren’t they fabulous??!?

I hope you make lots and lots of these fun DIY Travel Pillow Cases!

Happy Sewing!

CHECK OUT these fun sewing projects!

DIY Cell Phone Charging Station

The Kristine ID Wallet

How to get PERFECT Seam Allowance

May 20, 2020May 20, 20205 Comments

In this tutorial, I will show you several different ways to achieve a perfect seam allowance for your sewing projects.

Using my Juki TL2010Q sewing machine, I will introduce you to several different tools that will get you sewing like a pro!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Tools for Seam Allowance

Washi Tape

The 1st tool is something that you may have already at your house. Washi Tape is an easily available and inexpensive product. Simply place washi tape on the faceplate of your sewing machine. Usually, there are seam lines that are already embossed on your faceplate. To get started you can align your washi tape at the quarter-inch marking. Once you’ve aligned your tape, against your desired seam allowance marking, you can simply position the edge of your fabric against the edge of the washi tape. This technique is quick and easy and can provide excellent results! I use a seam guide to ensure that my seam allowance is correct!

Magnetic Seam Guide

The second tool I want to show you is the Magnetic Seam Guide. This gadget has a strong magnet on the back and will hold into place on your sewing machine faceplate. To use this tool, simply locate your desired seam allowance and align the edge of the magnetic seam guide to the edge of the seam allowance line. (What makes the magnetic seam guide better than washi tape is the raised edge of the guide. It is much easier to hold the fabric edge next to the magnetic seam guide.) You can easily move the guide further in or further out – depending upon the seam allowance you might need for different projects.

Quarter Inch Presser Foot

In this tutorial, I will show you several different ways to achieve a perfect seam allowance for your sewing projects. Using a 1/4

One of my favorite ways to get a great seam allowance is by using a Juki Brand quarter-inch presser foot. While this foot doesn’t come standard with the Juki TL2010Q; it is easily purchased aftermarket. These feet are super simple to switch out. You just remove the side screw and replace the foot. Once you have the new foot in the place you can just begin sewing. This foot is specifically for a quarter-inch seam allowance. This specialty sewing foot is particularly great for making quilt blocks.

Marking a Sewing Line

In this tutorial, I will show you several different ways to achieve a perfect seam allowance for your sewing projects. Using a Frixion Pen and an Acrylic Ruler is just one of the ways to help you create perfect seam allowance. Watch the FREE video tutorial and start sewing like a PRO! #SeamAllowance #SewingSkills

One of the last ways to sew with perfect seam allowance is by marking your sewing lines. Whenever I mark my sewing lines, I like to use a Frixion Pen. These pens are super useful. The magic is when you apply heat. You simply mark on your fabric and then press with your hot iron and the marks magically disappear. Now, I will tell you that I only use these pens for marking my sewing lines. I never use these in an area that won’t be hidden by stitches or a seam allowance. To mark your sewing line, just lay your acrylic ruler over the edge of your fabric. Draw your line, right against the edge of your ruler. Sewing lines are also very helpful if you are new to sewing and need that extra bit of visual help.

Be sure to watch my video tutorial, which shows you how to use each of the above tools mentioned.

Watch the Video

I hope this article gave you some ideas and help in order to achieve a perfect seam allowance. Be sure to check out my Facebook Group and Instagram Stories for more inspiration!

Happy Stitching!

Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine

May 7, 2020May 7, 202012 Comments

This year, my birthday present is this Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine! I have been wanting this Juki model for many years. So many of my sewing friends have RAVED about this machine, so I called up my local JUKI dealer to see if they had one in stock. They had one in stock so I decided to give it a test drive. Well, it only took me a couple of hours to decide that I had to have this machine for myself. Let me tell you all about my new Juki TL-2010Q!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Whenever I get something new, I want to jump right in. I want to ignore the manual and the registration paperwork and just get to play with my new toy! That’s normal, right? However, this time I had to reference the manual right from the beginning. I needed to know how to load the bobbing and use the needle threader. I also wanted to learn more about the automatic thread cutter and other great features this machine offers. While I was reviewing the manual, I went ahead and got online to register my machine. I felt all grown up and responsible! And now for the fun part! Let’s take a look at all the bells and whistles of my Juki TL2010Q

Let’s dive into this bag of accessories! This machine comes with four different feet: 1) Regular Pressing foot, 2) Adjustable Zipper foot, 3) Walking Foot, and 4) Free-Motion Quilting foot. We will talk more about using this variety of sewing feet in a future post. Be sure to check the bottom of this post for the list.

Installing the Extention Table

This machine comes standard with a knee lift and extension table. I have grown used to and LOVE my knee lift on my Juki DU1181n. I was so pleased to learn this machine has that option also. You certainly don’t have to add this accessory if you don’t want to. The extension table is an amazing offering with this machine. The legs easily open and can adjust. The extension table just slides right into place without any problems.

Winding the bobbin

Raise the support rod and set your thread onto the spool pin Take your thread to the rod just above the spool. Thread the bobbin winder guide. Pass the thread through the hole of the bobbin. Place the bobbin on the winding shaft there is a little metal notch you need to line up. Press the bobbin presser. Start winding the bobbin. Trim the excessive thread. This will stop automatically when it fills up. Make sure the needle is in the up position. Open the slide plate and take out the bobbin case. Put the bobbin into the bobbin case so that the bobbin runs clockwise. Passing the thread through the slit of the bobbin case, continue passing it under the thread tension spring, and pull out the thread about 4 inches from the bobbin case. Insert the bobbin case fully into the hook, and close the bobbin case latch.

Threading the Machine

Pass the thread through the thread guide. Pass the thread through the space between the two tension disks on the sub tension knob. Next, pass the thread through the clearance between the two thread tension disks on the thread tension dial. Follow the diagram through the hooks and take-up lever. Next, you will pass the thread through the hook, just above the needle threading mechanism and also the pig-tail hook on the needle bar.

Using the Needle Threader

Lower the presser foot and lower the needle threader lever. Bring the needle to the top position. Pass the needle thread from the opposite side to this side, and move the thread on the right-hand side until it comes in contact with the guide. When the finger is taken off, the thread is caught in the hook and passed through the needle’s eye. Magic! Draw out the thread about 4 inches.

This machine also has an automatic thread trimmer, which is either activated by a touch of a button or tapping your heal on the foot pedal. There is also a sewing speed control with speeds up to 1500 stitches per minute. You can also set a “stop position for your needle”. When you stop sewing, the machine will come to an accurate stop with the needle in the down position.

To get your own Juki TL-2010Q, visit my friends at Quilter’s HQ. They are a family-owned business and have wonderful customer service. Be sure to use my code: SMMIS and receive a free magnetic seam guide with your machine!

Watch the video

Sometimes, with a new machine – it can be difficult to know which thread to use for a certain material type or which needle to use for a particular thread.

Be sure to stay tuned for additional posts about my Juki TL-2010Q. Here is what I have planned:

Quilt Piecing
Free Motion Quilting
Using the Walking Foot
Maintenance Tips

Please let me a comment to let me know if you already have this sewing machine and what you love about it!

How to Face a Quilt

April 29, 2020April 30, 2020Leave a comment

Facing a Quilt is a wonderful way to finish your quilt! After all the work of designing and piecing – finishing is very exciting! There are many ways to finish a quilt. In this tutorial, I will show you how to add facing to your quilt as an excellent way to finish! Don’t forget to watch the video tutorial too!

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Quilt Facing SUPPLY LIST

Quilted (unbound) quilt top – any size will work
Qty (4) squares of fabric- measuring 4″ x 4″
- I used Ebony by Paintbrush Studio
Qty (4) facing strips – cut two WOF strips measuring 2.5″ wide and then cut these in half
- I used Ebony by Paintbrush Studio

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

Sewing Machine (I love my Juki TL-2010Q)
Cotton Thread (this is what I use)
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I use this brand – 45mm)
Acrylic Ruler (I like this brand)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I recommend this rotating mat – it’s amazing!)
Iron & Wool Pressing Mat
Wonder Clips
Optional sewing stiletto
Fabric Scissors (I used these scissors in the video)

This art quilt consists of several class samples from a Modern Quilting Class I took with my local guild last summer. Besides a quilted top, you will also need your corner pieces (which can also come in handy for hanging your quilt, four facing fabric strips that are at least the length of each side of your quilt top. You can use sewing pins or clips. I prefer clips for this technique, so that is what I will use in this tutorial. You will also need a pair of scissors.

Sewing the Facing

Once we have all the facing and corner pieces attached to our quilt top, we will sew these in place. Simply start at one corner and sew the entire perimeter of your quilt, using a one quarter inch seam allowance. I love using a sewing stiletto to help keep the fabric in place while I’m sewing. This is especially useful when you want to keep your fingers away from the needle. While you are sewing, when you reach a corner of the quilt, ensure that your needle is in the down position – lift up your presser foot and pivot your quilt. Continue sewing around the entire perimeter of the quilt

Once you have all the facing and corner pieces secured with your stitching, you will take just a moment to press your facing strips out. I love using my Wool Pressing Mat. The next step is to sew a line of stitches along the facing strips, just about an eighth of an inch away from your seam. The purpose of this step is to help the facing strips easily fold to the back of the quilt.

Using your scissors, snip away each of the corners. Be careful not to snip past the diagonal line of stitching you made earlier. Making these little snips will reduce the bulk in the corners when you turn the facing right side out. When turning your facing right side out, simply flip out each corner of the quilt. The raw edges of the facing strips will be hidden behind the facing corners. I used a chopstick to help my corners along.

Quilt Facing Finishing Touches

Next, we will hand-bind the facing strips to the back of your quilt. I found the easiest way to do this is to clip the facing strip into position. You can even move the corner to the back so you can reach the raw edge of each strip to hand stitch this down. Once your binding is finished, you can add a dowel rod to the insides in case you wanted to hang your quilt on the wall.

The finished Faced Quilt!

I really like the way facing a quilt does not take away from the original design of this quilt. Regular binding would have districted the vision of this mini quilt and taken away from all the soft curves. I hope you enjoyed and learned from this tutorial. Be sure to watch the video tutorial!

WATCH THE VIDEO

Let me know, in the comments below, if you have ever tried facing a quilt. I love hearing from you! Happy Quilting!

I love my Juki Miyabi J-350 QVP