DIY Planner Cover

January 15, 2020January 16, 20206 Comments

I just love my 2020 Quilter’s Planner! I wanted to make a cover for it, but the patterns I found did not give me all the customizations that I wanted for my own planner cover. It was important to have a flap with some sort of closure, an interior zipper pocket and also a spot for my small notebooks. I decided I needed to go ahead and make my own DIY planner cover and that is just what I did! Keep reading to learn more about my DIY Planner Cover and how you can make one for yourself!

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

planner cover Pattern

I drafted and published my own Planner Cover Pattern. This design is perfect for my 2020 Quilter’s Planner and can be used with many different types of closures.

Magnetic Snap Closure

For one of my Planner Covers, I decided to use a magnetic snap. These are super simple to install and the hardware comes in a variety of finishes (Gunmetal, Antique Bronze, Gold & Nickel). I thought that the gunmetal finish looked best for the fabric that I was using for my Planner Cover. I used a small piece of Peltex to stabilize the washer. Be sure to watch my video below for visual instructions!

Inset Zipper Pocket

I love having a pencil, pens, markers, and colored pencils handy for my DIY Planner Cover. I decided to create an interior inset zipper (or welted zipper pocket) for the left interior sleeve. I used a #5 zipper (which has a wider tape). I get all my zippers from my favorite online shop. She has a great selection and super quick shipping! I used a coordinating fabric for the interior of the zipper pocket. I just love all the little details (even the custom sewn-in woven labels)!

Notebook pocket

I am a notetaker and a list maker! I love to jot down notes and keep track of my lists while I’m working with my planner. I use these little note pads all the time and wanted to incorporate a small pocket on the opposite interior sleeve to accommodate these notepads. I used the same method as the inset zipper, just omitted the zipper. Super simple!

DIY Planner Cover Material LIST

Planner Cover Pattern
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Exterior Body & Zipper Pocket Lining
- more needed if your fabric is directional
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Interior Body, Interior Sleeves & Notebook Pocket
- more needed if your fabric is directional
Qty (1/3) yard fabric for Exterior Sleeves & Interior Flap
Approximately 8″ x 12″ for the Exterior Flap
- It is up to you on what type of fabric you want to choose for this.
  - Be mindful that your machine will need to sew through this, plus several other layers during assembly. If you want a machine that can handle it all – check out my blog series on my Industrial Sewing Machine!
Approx. 30″ x 12″ of Batting or Foam
- I would recommend either Quilter’s Dream Supreme batting or Soft and Stable Foam.
Approx. 14″ x 12″ of Decor Bond interfacing
Peltex scraps
Qty (1) 9″ zipper (I get my zippers here)
- be sure to get a #5 or purse zipper. The tape is wider.
Qty (1) closure
- You can choose between a magnetic snap, a Purse Turn Lock or even a fancy Flip Lock.
Qty (1) Custom Label (optional)
- get 15% off your custom label from Dutch Label Shop (Coupon Code: sewmuchmoore15)

Basic Sewing Supplies & Tools Needed

Sewing Machine with a zipper foot and regular presser foot
Thread
- For Domestic Sewing Machines, I would recommend this thread
Jeans sewing needle
Seam Ripper
Sewing Pins
Double-Sided Tape (this is optional, but makes installing a zipper a BREEZE!)
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!)
Clover Wonder Clips
Fray Check
Exacto Knife (optional)
Marking Pen (I like to use my Frixion Pen or a pencil)
Sharp Scissors (I love this pair)
Iron & Ironing Board (this one is on my wish list)

WATCH MY VIDEO TUTORIAL

Grab your Planner Cover Pattern and watch my video tutorial! This is such a fun and easy pattern. It’s packed full of useful extras (like making a welted pocket and installing a magnetic closure). Make yourself a Quilter’s Planner Cover today!

It’s not too late to order your own 2020 Quilter’s Planner! I just know you’re gonna love it!

Just Keep Sewing!

Hugs and Kisses Quilt Block

January 8, 2020January 12, 20207 Comments

The Hugs and Kisses Quilt block is a fun and versatile quilt block! These blocks have also been called “X & O”. How cute! You can make an entire quilt with either the ‘X’ quilt block or an entire quilt of the ‘O’ quilt block. It is even better when you mix up the quilt pattern with a little bit of both! Check out the materials list and get your pattern and let’s make some fun quilt blocks!

To get your cutting measurements and specific sewing directions, you have a couple of choices:

Option 1: Download for free.

To download the cutting measurements & specific sewing instructions for free, you can subscribe to the Sew Much Moore Newsletter. AFTER you sign up, you’ll get a confirmation email – and you have to confirm or my email service can’t send you the free pattern access email. But once you do confirm, you’ll get access to not just this but several other free patterns. Woot!

(PS – if you have trouble finding the pattern as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase this PDF pattern

Use this link to purchase a pattern file. 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 download this file in my shop.

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

Hugs & Kisses QUILT BLOCK SUPPLY LIST

Quilt Block Pattern
Qty (2) half yard of Contrasting Fabrics (I love the new fabrics from this store)

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

Sewing Machine
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 & Ironing Board

This amount of fabric will make more than (2) quilt blocks, but that’s ok! We love extra fabric!!!

Check out this video to give you an idea of how to make the quilt block. You will love how easy it is to make and want to make more!

What about doing an entire quilt? Wouldn’t that be great??!!??

Be sure to show your completed Hugs and Kisses Quilt Blocks in my Facebook Group!

We would love to see your work!

Until next time, Happy Quilting!

Be sure to check out my most popular posts!

How to make a Mini Boxy Pouch

December 11, 2019December 11, 20192 Comments

I just love these little, quick projects! Using common items, found in your sewing studio, you can make a quick and easy Mini Boxy Pouch! These are perfect to attach to a keychain, backpack or to your existing purse hardware! Let me show you how I make these and don’t forget to watch my video tutorial too!

To get your cutting measurements, you have a couple of choices:

Option 1: Download for free

(PS – if you have trouble finding the instructions as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase the cutting instructions

Use this link to purchase the cutting instructions.

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

Mini Boxy Pouch SUPPLY LIST

Cutting Measurements
Qty (1) scrap of fabric for the exterior
Qty (1) scrap of fabric for the interior & the clasp holder
Qty (1) piece of double-sided fusible foam (here is a good online option)
Qty (1) piece of woven interfacing
Qty (1) Zipper (see cutting instructions for zipper length)
Qty (1) 1/2 inch swivel lobster clasp
Qty (1) Pull Tab (I used a custom tag)
- get 15% off your custom label from Dutch Label Shop (Coupon Code: sewmuchmoore15)

Basic Sewing Supplies Needed

Sewing Machine with a zipper foot and regular presser foot
Thread
- For Domestic Sewing Machines, I would recommend this thread
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!)
Clover Wonder Clips
Fray Check
Marking Pen (I like to use my Frixion Pen)
Sharp Scissors (I love this pair)
Iron & Ironing Board (this one is on my wish list)

Mini Boxy Pouch ASSEMBLY

Cut and fuse all fabrics, according to your cutting directions. Align and clip your zipper, right side facing the right side of your first fabric panel. Make sure your zipper head is facing the fabric. Using your zipper foot attachment, sew the zipper tape to the panel. Fold-down the zipper tape to the back of the fabric panel and secure it with a line of stitches. Align the other side of your panel to the top of zipper tape and clip in place. Sew your second fabric panel to the zipper tape. Fold-down the zipper tape to the back of the fabric panel and secure it with a line of stitches. While your project is still inside out, unzip your zipper about halfway. Fold the sewn fabric panels ends so that the center of the bottom is in the middle and the zipper is aligned on top of that. Align and secure the raw edges together and insert the pull tab on the closed zipper end. Repeat that step for the other side (except insert the lobster clasp and tab on this end) and sew the raw edges closed.

Taking your boxing template, draw cut lines on all four corners of the project. Using your sharp fabric scissors (these are the BEST scissors), cut out the corners. Trim off the excess zipper tape. Align the handle in the middle of the boxed corner. Use clips to secure. Repeat for the other end of the handle. Sew these edges closed. Make sure you backstitch at the beginning and end of each side. It is also a good idea to backstitch the handle area as well since this is a high use area. Repeat on the other side of the bag. Turn your finished exterior bag right side out.

watch my VIDEO TUTORIAL

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE a video tutorial as well! Check out my YouTube video which explains how to make my Mini Boxy Pouch!

As I mentioned, these mini boxy pouches make excellent gifts. You can store earbuds, folded money, chapstick/lipstick and all sorts of small items in there! What will you use yours for? Tell me in the comments below!

Happy Sewing!

Pinetree Forest Quilt Block

December 5, 2019December 19, 20192 Comments

Have you ever needed a quilt block that wasn’t quite Holiday specific, but still works throughout the entire winter season? This is what I love about the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block! Let me tell you about this versatile foundation paper pieced pattern so you can make one (or several) for yourself and others!

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

MATERIALS LIST

Pinetree Forest Quilt Block Pattern
- If you are a subscriber, you can get a coupon for this pattern. Learn more right HERE.
Various fabrics for the three trees
- I used Mint, Old Green and Wasabi
Background fabric
- I used Linen
Tree trunk fabric
- I used Old Gold
Ground fabric
- - I used Yarrow

SUPPLY LIST

Sewing Machine (here are some machines I recommend)
Cotton Thread (I have a recurring order for this thread – I love it!)
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade (I used this smaller cutter on this project)
Rotary Cutting Mat (I used this cutting mat on this project)
Iron & Ironing Board (I’m currently using this brand of iron)
Add-A-Quarter Acrylic Ruler (this is the BEST ruler for foundation paper piecing)
Foundation Paper for the pattern (I use this paper – it sews and tears away easily)
Sewline Glue Pen (this is handy for larger pieces and for your starting piece as well)
(Optional) Violet Craft Roller – I like to use this instead of using the iron sometimes.

Making the Quilt Block

The construction of this quilt block is pretty straight forward and can be easily accomplished by the confident beginner. If you have never tried foundation paper piecing before, I recommend watching my YouTube video to help you understand the basics of this technique. You can also try your hand at this simple pattern to get your feet wet.

The Pinetree Forest Quilt Block pattern includes a Coloring Page, which is useful to help you determine what colors you like and also to help you keep track of which fabric to use for which piece. I like to attach my tree fabrics to each tree to help me remember which color I am using for each Pinetree.

The pattern is sectioned into 5 “strips” for easy assembly. I highly recommend printing your pattern on special paper and also using the Add-A-Quarter Acrylic Ruler. These two products will make quick and accurate work of any foundation paper pieced project!

Once you have your sections trimmed, you simply sew each section together. I have found that leaving the paper on for the section assembly will help to keep your pieces properly aligned.

Finishing the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block

Once you’ve completed the assembly of your Pinetree Forest Quilt Block – the sky is the limit on how you want to use it! You can make several to create a table runner or make several more to make your own quilt top! I will probably make a few more of these and use them as the focal points of some throw pillows on my living room couch! I can leave them out until it’s time to decorate for Valentine’s Day!

Remember – if you sign up for my Newsletter, you can get a coupon code for this Quilt Block Pattern. Don’t worry – If you are already a subscriber – you won’t get double emails. What are you waiting for? Get your coupon code right HERE! I hope you enjoy making the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block!

Happy Quilting!

Christmas Table Runners!

November 14, 2019November 21, 20192 Comments

At a recent group sewing event, we learned how to make a wonderful Christmas Table Runner with a Half Hexagon template. One of us saw the online tutorial that Jenny, with MSQC, put together and we were hooked! These came together so simply and I find myself looking forward to making more. These are such a fun and simple project! I just loved making one, so I had to make several more!

I used to sell these table runners in my Etsy shop, and they were very popular! These also make a really great gift! Let me tell you all the things you will need to make your own Christmas Table Runner (and the list is very short – Yay)

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

Christmas Table Runner – SUPPLIES LIST

Several 10″ x 10″ pieces of Christmas Fabric
- You can use a fun Christmas Layer Cake
Several 10″ x 10″ pieces of Background Fabric
- I often have a white or neutral Layer Cake to use
Thread (I recommend using a 50 wt thread for piecing)
Large Half Hexagon Acrylic Ruler
Star Paper Template
Batting
Border & Backing Fabric
Binding Fabric – Try this fun striped binding! Super-Cute!

Christmas Table Runner – TOOLS NEEDED

Sewing Machine
- If you are looking for a new machine, here are my recommendations
Cutting Mat & Rotary Cutter
- I love this rotating Rotary Cutter!
- You need this Rotating Cutting Mat – please Santa???!!?
iron and ironing board (I just love my Wool Ironing Mat!)

Choosing and cutting your fabric, from your layer cake, is really fun! You can usually find duplicates in each layer cake. One 10″ square will yield (2) half hexagons.

Check out Jenny’s tutorial to see how easy this Christmas Table Runner is to make!

Jenny’s Half Hexagon Template works really well for the Layer Cakes, but if you wanted to use your existing Christmas yardage, you can use any type of half hexagon template. Amazon has a pretty decent selection of Half Hexagon Templates as well.

I hope you have lots of fun making these Christmas Table Runners!

Happy Stitches!

Make a Bella Strega Wall Quilt

October 30, 2019October 30, 20195 Comments

In case you didn’t know….Bella Strega means “Good Witch” in Italian. After taking a local class on the Bella Strega Quilt Pattern, I knew I had to share this project with you all. I first saw this done at a local Show & Tell for the Kansas City Modern Quilt Guild. The project was done by a new member, Angel, and I was complete captivated! I kept saying, “that is amazing! I need to make one of those!” A year went by and our Schoolhouse Chair organized a workshop. I was the FIRST to signup for the sold out class. The project took one day (I cheated and sewed together my background before class). I quilted it up the next weekend and had it ready in time for Halloween! Let me show some of the details and also some inspiration so you might want to make a Bella Strega Wall Quilt of your own!

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

Bella Strega – Materials List

Bella Strega Quilt Pattern – pattern by Laurie Ceesay Landree
Fabric (Forty 5″ squares) I am linking the fabrics I used below:
- Burnt Sienna (Painters Palette #121-127) for the hair
- Cumin (Painters Palette #121-130) for some of the background
- Yarrow (Painters Palette #121-140) for a majority of the background
- Old Gold (Painters Palette #121-056) for most of the hat
- Wasabi (Painters Palette #121-061) for her face
- Scrap of White for the eye
- Tootsie (Painters Palette #121-129) for the outline
- 1 yd fusible web (I used Misty Fuse)
  - You will also need to use Baking Parchment Paper if you use Misty Fuse
  - I will also recommend a telfon sheet.
- 3/4 yd backing fabric
- Low Loft Batting
- Thread to match the outline and also thread for quilting
  - I used a matching 50 wt Aurifil for the outline
  - I used Aurifil Monofilament for quilting the background

Supply List

Sewing Machine
Quarter Inch foot for your sewing machine (you will use this for piecing the background together)
- Here is a Low Shank Option
- Here is a High Shank Option
Tracing surface
- I highly recommend the CutterPillar Glow Ultra.
Pencil or marking tool for tracing
Scissors for paper fused fabric
Sewing Pins or Wonder Clips
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade
Acrylic Ruler
Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat (the spinning mats are ideal)
Iron & Ironing Board
Pressing Mat (to prevent the Fusible webbing from sticking to your iron or ironing board)
Optional embellishments like sequence, buttons or fabric paint.

Tracing the pattern

This tracing pattern is based upon original line drawings, by Laurie Ceesay Landree. These drawings are meant to be traced, fused to fabric, and then cut. If you already have a light box, then go ahead and use that for tracing your pattern. You can also use a sunny window. I had the opportunity to try out a CutterPillar LightPad and can’t tell you enough good things about this product! This lightpad has 3 settings for brightness and never gets hot to the touch. Each size option comes with a see-through cutting surface, which also makes this product ideal for fussy cutting and foundation paper piecing.

Below is a picture of our workshop instructor, Angel, as she is tracing a student’s project. Since I used Parchment Paper and Misty Fuse, I traced the drawing onto the paper first. I was careful to include the name of each piece so that I wouldn’t get confused. Then, I sandwiched the Misty Fuse between the paper and the fabric and used my hot iron to adhere the fusible webbing to my fabric. This was the perfect time to use my Teflon sheet and ensure that I don’t get the fusible web on anything (like my hot iron or pressing mat).

Using Misty Fuse

A good friend of mine introduced me to Misty Fuse. I met the owner of Misty Fuse, Iris, at a Regional Quilt Festival and was anxious to see what all the buzz was about. In the past, I had used stiffer fusible products and my needle always gummed up when I sewed my project together. Check out this video introduction on Misty Fuse and try some on your next project!

Line Drawing assembly

The Bella Strega pattern includes an assembly diagram, so it goes together nicely. Once all the pieces are situated, then they just get pressed onto the background with a hot iron. The image below shows my outline fabric on my background patchwork. This is how far I got in the workshop. I carefully rolled up my project and took it home for quilting.

finishing touches

Now that the top was finished, I just needed to decide on my quilting design and how I wanted to finish the project. I used my Juki Miyabi 350 QVP to quilt the outline and the background. Since my Longarm allows me to freely move my project under the needle, I was able to easily stitch the outline fabric in place. Once I had the outline secured, I decided on a few different quilting techniques to finish the quilt. I used Free Motion Quilting in the hair and the hat. For the rest of the background, and the face/neck, I used a Non-Slip ruler to make lines and cross-hatching. I finished the quilt with some flange binding. What do you think?

The Bella Strega Schoolhouse was definitely a success! The pattern designed mentioned that she had never seen a Bella Strega done in solid fabrics before (everyone has made them with a variety of prints). I think they all look marvelous! Look at all these beautiful witches!

I hope you decide to try one of Laurie Ceesay Landree’s patterns. She has many great patterns to choose from! I bought the Winter Bella pattern and will be trying that one next! Be sure to share your progress or completed project in my Facebook Group and don’t forget to check out my fabric shop for some excellent fabric options!

Happy Quilting!

Check out these Quilty related posts!

Maple Leaf Quilt Block

15 Fabulous Patterns for Fall!

DIY Fabric Pennant Banners

October 16, 2019October 16, 20198 Comments

I love to decorate my home! Whether the decorations are store-bought or handmade, there is a great amount of satisfaction in making my home beautiful. Since being blessed with the love of sewing, I prefer to make my own home decor, if possible. Making some DIY fabric pennant banners took my home decor to a whole new level! I was able to create seasonal decor with ease, decorate for a birthday party and even have some swanky ambiance for our NYE celebration! Once you try these DIY fabric pennant banners – you will want to make more and more! Let me show you how it’s done!

First – you need to get your FREE Pennant Template. Click HERE and I will email this to you!

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

DIY Fabric Pennant Banner Supply List

Pennant Template (get your free template here)
Coordinating fabric
Double Fold Bias Tape

Basic Sewing Supplies Needed

Sewing Machine
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 & Ironing Board

DIY fabric pennant banner tutorial

Iron your fabrics nice and flat. Print out your Pennant Template and lay this over a few pieces of fabric and cut these out. Cut out as many pennants as you will need. I love using Fat Quarter Bundles for this project because the fabrics are already coordinated!

Because these pennants are double-sided, you will decide which fabric will be on the front and on the back. Place your cut fabric RST (right sides together) and sew along the 2 long sides of the triangle (leaving the short side open for turning). Repeat this step for each pennant in your banner.

Next, you will turn each pennant right side out and get the tip of your pennant to a point. I have found using a Purple Thang is the perfect tool to get these pesky points out! Do this for each pennant and then press any wrinkles out.

Once you have your pennants pressed out, you will take your Double Sided Bias Tape and situate this along the open raw edge of each pennant. Enclose the raw edges with the bias tape. Use pins or Wonder Clips to situate each pennant placement before you sew these in place.

That’s it! Easy Peasy!

Even our cat, Sox, loved it!

This project is an easy sew and the perfect project to help take your home or party decor to the next level. Most noteworthy is how you can make these banners for seasonal decorations and then pack them away for the next year. Consider making these for a great Baby Shower gift! Because these are so simple to make, you can even make these for graduation parties! The possibilities are amazing! Get your free Pennant Template and make DIY Fabric Pennant Banners today!

Happy Sewing!

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How to Install Metal Bag Labels

October 9, 2019October 9, 2019Leave a comment

Installing metal bag labels into your handmade totes, purses, wallets or bags is one of the easiest additions you can bring to your custom items. This additional bit of hardware can really set your handmade items apart and help people take notice of all your hard work! These metal bag labels come in a variety of finishes to compliment your fabric and even the rest of your hardware. Let me show you all the options for this wonderful hardware and don’t forget to watch the video tutorial so you can see how easy it is to install your own metal tags!

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

Metal bag label Supply List

Metal Bag Label
- (Check out all the different finishes right HERE)
Leather Punch
Marking tool
- (I just used a permanent marker)
Fray Check
- (you should only need this if using cotton, canvas or knit fabric)
Tiny Screwdriver
- The magnetic screwdrivers work best (Like this one)

Installing your Metal Bag Label

Deciding which hardware finish to use on your handmade bag is really fun! I like to try to match all my hardware. If I am using a metal zipper, then I try to match the teeth on the zipper. If I am using Swivel Snap Hooks or Adjustable Sliders, then I will try to match those as well. I think a nice bag or purse will have all matching hardware finish. If you don’t have any other hardware on your bag or wallet, you can always determine which hardware finish would most complement your handmade item.

For this tutorial, I am using a piece of Cork Fabric that is interfaced with foam and SF101 (Shape-flex). Your Metal Bag Label comes in a variety of finishes. This hardware comes with 2 screws and a stabilizing bracket. Have a marking utensil handy as well as a small Phillips head screwdriver.

I recommend using a Leather Punch.

This Leather Punch has an adjustable head so you can ensure the hole you make is the right size for your project. Take a moment to compare the size of the hole, on the back of the Metal Bag Label, to the size of the hole on the Leather Punch. The holes on the back of the Metal Bag Label are not horizontally aligned. One side is higher than the other side. This means we need to pay close attention to where we punch holes to install our Metal Bag Label.

Take your Metal Bag Label and press down to make an indent in your project. Use your marking utensil to denote where the holes need to be punched. Use your Leather Punch to make your holes in the front of your project and also on the back. Remove any access materials that might be in the way of the screw.

Align the Metal Bag Label with the holes that you just made and attach the stabilizing bracket. PRO TIP! If your project is either Cotton or Canvas, I recommend using Frey Check! Install the screws with a tiny Phillips head screwdriver.

Pictured below is the front of my Ethel Bag. This is a free sewing pattern by Swoon and super easy to make.

Once you have chosen your hardware finish, you just need to install your hardware! It is important to do this before you assemble your bag. I usually install the Metal Bag Label when I am done adding the interfacing to a panel.

Watch the video Tutorial

For this video tutorial, I have used a scrap piece of Cork Fabric. You can use just about any type of fabric. I have used cotton, knit, vinyl, cork, and leather (just to name a few). Check out this step-by-step video to see how easy it is to install your own hardware to your handmade bag, tote or purse.

Be sure to head over to my online shop to get a Metal Bag Label in the finish you like best!

Happy Sewing!

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Adjustable Bag Strap Hardware

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Maple Leaf Quilt Block

October 3, 2019October 3, 20198 Comments

The Maple Leaf Quilt Block is the perfect block for the Fall Season! This quilt block is a traditional design and likely originated in the late 1800s. Typically, this block is made in two strongly contrasting colors. This nine-patch quilt block is super easy and looks really great! There are many ways to make a Maple Leaf Quilt Block. Let me show you how I made this version.

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

Maple leaf quilt block – Materials List

Leaf Fabric (there are so many great fall color choices – I have linked to a few of my favorite)
Background Fabric (I love this color for my background – I have linked to it below)
- Linen (Painters Palette #121-121)

maple leaf quilt block – Supply List

Sewing Machine
Quarter Inch foot for your sewing machine
- Here is a Low Shank Option
- Here is a High Shank Option
Cotton Thread (I recommend Aurifil 50 wt for piecing)
Sewing Pins
Rotary Cutter with a sharp blade
Acrylic Ruler
Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat (the spinning mats are ideal)
Iron & Ironing Board

Four HST from one square

This method creates HST (half square triangles) on the bias, so you will want to generously starch your fabric and be sure to press your project and not iron. I love to make these quilt blocks, quickly! The quickest way to make four HST is using the method below:

Step One: Sew together the large square pieces: Place (1) Background and (1) Leaf Fabric with RST (right sides together). Sew 1/4″ seam all around the perimeter of the square.
Step Two: Mark two diagonal lines and cut the square apart.
Step Three: Press each HST open.
Step Four: Trim off excess fabric to your desired measurement.

making the stem block

Step Five: Cut one of the background blocks in half, diagonally. Place the Leaf Fabric Stem piece against the raw edge (as shown in the picture above). Sew a quarter-inch away from the raw edge and press open to the dark side.
Step Six: Repeat step five with the remaining HST and press to the dark side.
Step Seven: Center the ‘stem’ along your 45* angle on your acrylic ruler or cutting mat and trim this block to the appropriate square measurement.

maple leaf quilt block – assembly

Step Eight: Arrange your blocks in the correct layout (pictured above)
Step Nine: Using a quarter inch seam allowance, sew each row and then sew the rows together. Press your seams in the opposite directions. Be sure to nest your seams!
Step Ten: Join all rows, using a quarter inch seam allowance. Take time to nest your seams. Press your completed block and trim down to the correct size (if necessary)

I have calculated and published a PDF Pattern for (3) different sizes of the Maple Leaf Quilt Block. You have the option to make either a 6″, 9″ or 12″ Maple Leaf Quilt Block! All three sizes are included in this PDF Quilt Block Pattern. If you would like to download this pattern, you have a couple of options:

Option 1: Download for free.

To download the cutting measurements for free, you can subscribe to the Sew Much Moore Newsletter. AFTER you sign up, you’ll get a confirmation email – and you have to confirm or my email service can’t send you the free pattern access email. But once you do confirm, you’ll get access to not just this but several other free instructions too. Woot!

(PS – if you have trouble finding the pattern as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase the PDF Pattern

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

Don’t you just love this block? It makes me crave a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte, put on a hoodie or sweater and snuggle up in a Maple Leaf Quilt with a good book (or maybe even binge on a new Netflix series)!

The options for this simple quilt block is fun to imagine! You could make just a couple more for a seasonal Table Runner or several more for an entire Quilt. The Maple Leaf Quilt Block is a really fun and simple quilt block. I hope you make lots and lots of them!

Watch my Video Tutorial

Be sure to share your quilt block in my Facebook Group and don’t forget to check out my fabric shop for some excellent fabric options!

Happy Quilting!

How to Install Purse Feet

September 19, 2019September 19, 20191 Comment

Purse Feet are some of the easiest additions to install into your Handmade Bag, Tote or Purse! These little gems can take your handmade bags and purses to the next level while keeping the bottom of your item off surfaces. I love how this hardware comes in different sizes and finishes too! Let me show you how to install purse feet and you can start adding these to your handmade goodies too!

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

Purse Feet Supply List

Bucket Purse Feet
- (Check out all the different finishes right HERE)
Stabilizing swatch
- (I used Pellon Peltex)
Sharp blade
- (You can get something like THIS on Amazon)
Marking tool
- (I just used a pencil)
Fray Check
- (you should only need this if using cotton or knit fabric)

Installing your purse feet

Pictured below is the bottom side of my Ansel Camera Bag. To learn more about how I made this fun bag (and about using cork fabric) – Head over to my post about Sewing with Cork Fabric.

Purse Feet are some of the easiest additions to install into your Handmade Bag, Tote or Purse! Let me show you how to install purse feet and you can start adding these to your handmade goodies too! #Sewing #DIY #PurseFeet #VideoTutorial #Totes #Bag #Handmade #Designer #Custom #BagHardware #Purses #SewMuchMoore #SewMuchMooreInStore

Once you have chosen your hardware finish, you just need to install your hardware! It is important to do this before you assemble your bag. I usually install purse feet when I am done adding the interfacing to a bottom panel.

In the bag pictured below, the designer wanted to add buttons instead of purse feet. While buttons would have added a cute touch – I really like how the purse feet look instead. This bag is called the Ultimate Travel Bag and there is LOTS of hardware in this bag.

Watch the video Tutorial

For this video tutorial, I have used a scrap piece of soft vinyl. You can use just about any type of fabric. I have used cotton, knit, vinyl, cork, and leather (just to name a few). Check out this step-by-step video to see how easy it is to install your own hardware to your handmade bag, tote or purse.

I hope you found this video tutorial helpful. Be sure to head over to my online shop to get your own purse feet (in your favorite finish). I cant wait to see your finished projects! Be sure to share these on my Facebook Group.

SHOP FOR PURSE FEET

Comment below and tell me what your favorite finish is! Currently, I love the Gun Metal finish!

Happy Sewing!

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