The Top Ten Christmas sewing gift ideas for Gemma… ahem I mean Stitchers ….. 2024 !
After all , you’ve been sooooo good this year ! CLICK the photo to visit the shopping link .
( Pssssst – If you are reading this on someone else’s device – the tab may have been left open as HINT – I shall make it clear – ITS A HINT !!!! )
NUMBER 10…
The Prym Patchwork and Quilting starter set is perfect for all levels of sewing ! Including a mat , pen , ruler and rotary cutter it’s the perfect gift for any stitcher
NUMBER 9
In at number 9…. It’s the ultimate sewing tool – put down the various piers and pick up this beauty… from snaps to grommets… this tool does it all !
NUMBER 8
Coats Thread is the way forward ! And look at all those pretty colours !
NUMBER 7
Clip , clip , clip clippy clippy clip clip ! You can NEVER have too many of these wonderclips ! And they make a fab stocking filler for all ages.
NUMBER 6
You have probably used one in class without realising…. But the Prym sewing kits are the perfect accessory no matter what your level of sewing ! Choose from Pink or Blue to co-ordinate your sewing projects
NUMBER 5
Everyone needs a cutting mat…… but this rotating mat is a big favourite ! No need to flip your fabric around , just spin it !
NUMBER 4
Do you use tissue paper patterns a lot ? Or copy your own clothes ? Take the hassle out of adding your seam allowances with this magic set from Clover.
NUMBER 3
In at number 3 , The most important of course … A cleaning kit ! You should clean your bobbin area after every large project and these cute reusable wands make it so much easier !
NUMBER 2
If you are really getting into dressmaking an adjustable dressmakers mannequin can help with all of your garments – Just add padding to turn it into your own mini me !https://amzn.to/3Cph2ni
NUMBER 1….
IT’S ME !!!
C’mon now…. you know it was coming…. Sewing lessons have got to be number one right ? From dressmaking , quilting , beginners and one to one lessons we have something for everyone in 2025 ❤
Today we are talking about the big one… Buying sewing machine !
I get soooo many messages and emails about which machine to buy as a beginner or advanced stitcher.
And I’ll be honest… its a minefield ! There are many many types of machines out there , and whilst the majority do the same thing , there are a LOT of extras that are useful for different types of sewing.
I’m going to go through a list of basic sewing machines and why I think they are great , or not so great. Now these are my PERSONAL opinions , I’m not a sewing machine guru per say……… but I have used several thousand of them at this point both old and new teaching various beginners classes etc.
CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO VISIT A WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO ON THE PARTICULAR MACHINE.
Prices correct as of NOVEMBER 1ST 2024
REPAIR MACHINES/ KIDS MACHINES/MINI MACHINES
Now , the problem with this category is that these machines are great for single layer repairs of cotton , poly cotton and thinner fabrics , but are totally useless for anything thicker.
Sadly sometimes these machines are sold as ‘sewing machines’ and give the impression they are a bargain general sewing machine , when in reality they fall over or break easily.
These machines are play machines and not designed for sewing :s
AVOID THESE MACHINES – INCLUDING KIDS MACHINES !
See how tiny they are ? They just fall over or snap and cause lot’s of tears and frustration.
The ONLY half size machines I recommend are these ones below. (£)
We have used these in our children’s classes for 10 years now , without a single repair – and they’ve been chucked about quite bit !
DUNELM : JANOME DMX100
These are great for younger children to practice and stitch on… but I wouldn’t recommend ANY mini machine for an adult or child aged 10+ .
Hobbycraft 32S Sewing Machine
A great machine for beginners and younger stitchers , this model is perfect up to age 11.
KE12S BROTHER SEWING MACHINE
This machine is great for younger stitchers and beyond ! Similar to the teen/adult one below this machine features a safety guard and a slightly slower speed , great for ages 6+
BEGINNER / TEENAGERS MACHINES (££)
Great for beginners and all round stitchers.
These are the more common ones used in our classes over the last 10 years.
There’s quite a few out there , SINGER , BROTHER , PFAFF , JOHN LEWIS ( JANOME) ETC.
Here are a few of our favourites in our classes – and why.
IN AT NUMBER 1…
THE BROTHER LK14S
One of our top beginner favourites , we use a LOT of these in classes for beginners , teenagers and some older children. The Brother LS14 features a top loading bobbin – much easier to see when you are low on thread . This budget machine has all the basic stitches you would ever need. Prices around £80 .
At number 2……
The singer basics ! TRADITION , 8280 , SIMPLE , PROMISE , FASHION these are all bottom loading machines , slightly tricker but do have more stitches the the Brother. Prices around £200 +
At number 3…….
The Janome JL110 – Also known as the John lewis machines. These come in soooo many funky colours as well as just the white , They have all the stitches you need for the basics and beyond and are bottom loaders. Priced around £100-£140 depending on styles. Good solid machines.
MID RANGE MACHINES. ( £££)
There’s a LOT of these out there !
The difference between a mid range and budget is usually that they have more stitches ( including stretch stitches) and an automatic buttonhole. Some have a needle down function , digital display and automatic tension. They usually are designed for serious quilting , dressmaking or advanced sewing.
These are some classroom favourites.
UTEN COMPUTERISED SEWING MACHINE
A relatively new sewing machine on the block , This machine has made an appearance in classes over the last year or so , and they seem to be a solid machine , but with options you would expect from a much more expensive model ! Made by Fujitech this machine is very similar to Janome and will take Janome bobbins , needles and sewing feet. At around £150 it’s a complete bargain for the beginner stitcher !
The brother CS10S – A great intermediate machine , this has all the common stitches plus some stretch stitches … very useful for todays dressmaker. It’s a top loader too so super easy to use.
The brother AE2500 Another good option for dressmaking ! This machine has lot’s of lovely stitches perfect for stretchy and modern fabrics. Another steal at £129 !
Janome DC6030 Sewing Machine NOT a cheap machine by any standards , but a personal favourite of mine ! This machine features an automatic thread cutter , top loading bobbin and can be used without the foot pedal ( button to go instead ! ) Prices around £550
THE BROTHER INNOVIS A16
A great quilting machine , the Brother Innovis A16 is a good all rounder for most functions , it’s digital settings mean you can double your sewing stitches just by changing the width and length . This machine also features a stop start button meaning you can use it without the pedal. Prices around £390
Singer Patchwork Quilting and Sewing Machine 7285Q – does what it says on the tin ! A sewing machine full of quilting possibilities ! Prices around £400Brother INNOVIS A80 Sewing Machine, White SO.MANY.STITCHES . With a handy flip chart none the less ! This machine is a really good all rounder , it also has a stop start button so you can use it without a pedal and a needle up down function. prices start around £450 A very popular one in classes !
HEAVY DUTY MACHINES
Sometimes you need a really heavy duty machine ! These are great for sewing upholstery , curtains and leather or oilcloth on a regular basis. They really do pack a punch !
BROTHER HF27
A new one to the heavy duty market but a strong favourite.
Singer Heavy Duty – A popular machine but it’s very basic.
SUPER EXPENSIVE BUT OH SO LOVELY SEWING MACHINES. ( Dear father Christmas…….)
THE JANOME 5060 QDC – THE GBSB MACHINE ! Used on the great British sewing bee this Janome is a great all rounder with a handy auto cutter , start and stop and speed changer. Priced at around £600
BERNINA – ANY OF THEM. I love them all , these truly are dream machines , they come with some accessories and a range of stitches and possibilities , but oh they run like a dream ! These machines start at £500 and go up to 2k.My baby girl – Janome DC7100 Sewing Machine She’s a kick ass model , but I had to sell a kidney to get her so she’d better be good ……..Janome Atelier – any of them. Prices start around £1700 !
Gah ! I’m winding myself up now. I’ll stop.
Obviously there are different types of machines out there – embroidery machines , over lockers , cover stitch etc , but today I just wanted to cover some of the more basic models.
The rule of thumb is … check the reviews online , go and see a machine and have a go if you can ( John lewis and some sewing shops will give you a demo) and if in doubt , ask a fellow stitcher !
If you are looking for a new sewing machine , that’s great. But PLEASE don’t be put off by using an older machine. Some of the more ancient machines I have seen and used in my time are perfectly fine to use as a beginner ! The older the machine , the more solid they are too ! Usually a bit of oil and a clean and these too run like a dream. We welcome older machines at our classes no problem , but if in doubt pop me a message before class.
Just an FYI ….. DON’T BUY ONE OF THESE…..
I’m a piece of rubbish in a packet… please don’t buy me. I will never work and will make you sad. :p
One of the most asked questions I get from both beginner and experienced stitchers , is where to buy good quality purse friendly fabric in the UK.
Previously I have given Stitch Bridgend Sewing School beginners a list but I have never shared it outside of our student group , but as my GEMMA STITCH PDF patterns become more and more popular the comments on blogs , insta & the website the question keeps coming …
Sooo… hold on to your fabric scissors…
Here are my recommended Uk websites & shops. Click on the name to go to the websites.
FABRIC WEBSITES.
POUND FABRICS – An ever change range of good quality fabrics at cheap as chips prices and honest descriptions – we use this one a lot lately. The best thing about this website is the amount of deadstock fabric they sell – keeping it out of landfill ! yay !
ETSY – A real favourite of mine , you can find the most amazing fabrics at cheap prices with fast delivery – Just make sure to set the search filter to UK ONLY or custom charges may be added.
PURPLE STITCHES – An amazing source for bag making hardware and zips that make you go ooooooo
LITTLE LEGS – An amazing website full of dressmaking loveliness and more ! Some beautiful OTEX Jersey & French Terry
THE MAGPIES EYE – One of my secrets ! I LOVE these handmade glitter buttons made in Cardiff by the loveliest Mum ever !
SIMPLE LIFE FABRICS – Beautiful fabric well packaged and friendly ! This fabric store is sooo helpful , great for beginners who need advice ❤
CATKIN AND SCRAPS – Lovely modern fabrics , great for rarer prints. Inclusive pattern seller too *
NEOTRIMS – Excellent for speciality fabrics & Twill tape , waterproof and more
SEW ME SUNSHINE – Amazing modern dressmaking fabrics one of my top dressmaking shops – plus recyclable packaging & fabric care cards bonus !
CELTIC FUSION FABRICS– My secret go to for rarer fabrics and up to date designer fabrics.
FABRIC GODMOTHER – Great all rounder for dressmaking , a fantastic source of modern indie patterns , they really do support the smaller guys ❤
FABRIC SHOPS
Locally we have Dunem , Hobby craft , and my new favourite for upholstery – THE PUMP HOUSE
I’m pretty sure there are hundreds more I have bought from in the past , but this list is MY personal favourites I order from a LOT.
Remember – Duvet covers , old sheets and clothing are great to re-use , upcycle and save money , charity shops , shop sales and sometimes fabric dye can often make a huge difference in price.
Today we are talking about the big one… Buying sewing machine !
I get soooo many messages and emails about which machine to buy as a beginner or advanced stitcher.
And I’ll be honest… its a minefield ! There are many many types of machines out there , and whilst the majority do the same thing , there are a LOT of extras that are useful for different types of sewing.
I’m going to go through a list of basic sewing machines and why I think they are great , or not so great. Now these are my PERSONAL opinions , I’m not a sewing machine guru per say……… but I have used several thousand of them at this point both old and new teaching various beginners classes etc.
CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO VISIT A WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO ON THE PARTICULAR MACHINE.
Prices correct as of October 2023
REPAIR MACHINES/ KIDS MACHINES/MINI MACHINES
Now , the problem with this category is that these machines are great for single layer repairs of cotton , poly cotton and thinner fabrics , but are totally useless for anything thicker.
Sadly sometimes these machines are sold as ‘sewing machines’ and give the impression they are a bargain general sewing machine , when in reality they fall over or break easily.
AVOID THESE MACHINES – INCLUDING KIDS MACHINES !
See how tiny they are ? They just fall over or snap and cause lot’s of tears and frustration.
The ONLY half size machines I recommend are these ones below. (£)
We have used these in our children’s classes for 10 years now , without a single repair – and they’ve been chucked about quite bit !
DUNELM : JANOME DMX100
These are great for younger children to practice and stitch on… but I wouldn’t recommend ANY mini machine for an adult or child aged 10+ .
Hobbycraft 32S Sewing Machine
A great machine for beginners and younger stitchers , this model is perfect up to age 11.
BEGINNER / TEENAGERS MACHINES (££)
Great for beginners and all round stitchers.
These are the more common ones used in our classes over the last 10 years.
There’s quite a few out there , SINGER , BROTHER , PFAFF , JOHN LEWIS ( JANOME) ETC.
Here are a few of our favourites in our classes – and why.
IN AT NUMBER 1…
THE BROTHER LK14S
One of our top beginner favourites , we use a LOT of these in classes for beginners , teenagers and some older children. The Brother LS14 features a top loading bobbin – much easier to see when you are low on thread . This budget machine has all the basic stitches you would ever need. Prices around £80 .
At number 2……
The singer basics ! TRADITION , 8280 , SIMPLE , PROMISE , FASHION these are all bottom loading machines , slightly tricker but do have more stitches the the Brother. Prices around £200 +
At number 3…….
The Janome JL110 – Also known as the John lewis machines. These come in soooo many funky colours as well as just the white , They have all the stitches you need for the basics and beyond and are bottom loaders. Priced around £100-£140 depending on styles. Good solid machines.
MID RANGE MACHINES. ( £££)
There’s a LOT of these out there !
The difference between a mid range and budget is usually that they have more stitches ( including stretch stitches) and an automatic buttonhole. Some have a needle down function , digital display and automatic tension. They usually are designed for serious quilting , dressmaking or advanced sewing.
These are some classroom favourites.
The brother CS10S – A great intermediate machine , this has all the common stitches plus some stretch stitches … very useful for todays dressmaker. It’s a top loader too so super easy to use.
Currently priced on black friday at a very very reasonable 129.99 !
The brother AE2500 Another good option for dressmaking ! This machine has lot’s of lovely stitches perfect for stretchy and modern fabrics. Another steal at £129 !
Janome DC6030 Sewing Machine NOT a cheap machine by any standards , but a personal favourite of mine ! This machine features an automatic thread cutter , top loading bobbin and can be used without the foot pedal ( button to go instead ! ) Prices around £550
A great quilting machine , the Brother FS70WTX Come with all the bits and pieces you would need , plus it’s a top loader so simple threading ! Priced around £250.00
Singer Patchwork Quilting and Sewing Machine 7285Q – does what it says on the tin ! A sewing machine full of quilting possibilities ! Prices around £400Brother INNOVIS Sewing Machine, White SO.MANY.STITCHES . With a handy flip chart none the less ! This machine is a really good all rounder , prices start around £350 A very popular one in classes !
HEAVY DUTY MACHINES
Sometimes you need a really heavy duty machine ! These are great for sewing upholstery , curtains and leather or oilcloth on a regular basis. They really do pack a punch !
BROTHER HF27
A new one to the heavy duty market but a strong favourite.
Singer Heavy Duty – A popular machine but it’s very basic.
SUPER EXPENSIVE BUT OH SO LOVELY SEWING MACHINES. ( Dear father Christmas…….)
BERNINA – ANY OF THEM. I love them all , these truly are dream machines , they come with some accessories and a range of stitches and possibilities , but oh they run like a dream ! These machines start at £500 and go up to 2k.My baby girl – Janome DC7100 Sewing Machine She’s a kick ass model , but I had to sell a kidney to get her so she’d better be good ……..Janome Atelier – any of them. Prices start around £1700 !
Gah ! I’m winding myself up now. I’ll stop.
Obviously there are different types of machines out there – embroidery machines , over lockers , cover stitch etc , but today I just wanted to cover some of the more basic models.
The rule of thumb is … check the reviews online , go and see a machine and have a go if you can ( John lewis and some sewing shops will give you a demo) and if in doubt , ask a fellow stitcher !
If you are looking for a new sewing machine , that’s great. But PLEASE don’t be put off by using an older machine. Some of the more ancient machines I have seen and used in my time are perfectly fine to use as a beginner ! The older the machine , the more solid they are too ! Usually a bit of oil and a clean and these too run like a dream. We welcome older machines at our classes no problem , but if in doubt pop me a message before class.
Just an FYI ….. DON’T BUY ONE OF THESE…..
I’m a piece of rubbish in a packet… please don’t buy me. I will never work and will make you sad. :p
The Top Ten Christmas sewing gift ideas for Gemma… ahem I mean Adults….. 2023 !
After all , you’ve been sooooo good this year ! CLICK below the photo to visit the shopping link .
( Pssssst – If you are reading this on someone else’s device – the tab may have been left open as HINT – I shall make it clear – ITS A HINT !!!! )
NUMBER 10…
The Prym Patchwork and Quilting starter set is perfect for all levels of sewing ! Including a mat , pen , ruler and rotary cutter it’s the perfect gift for any stitcher click the link below to have a look online.
You can never have too many organiser boxes… but this ones our favourite ! It’s double sided and has a handle on the top so it’s easy to move around and keep all those precious threads tidy and safe.
Well there had to be a sewing machine in there somewhere right ? This Janome DKS100 SPECIAL EDITION is a fab sewing machine and great for all levels , sturdy and with over 100 computerised stitches you are covered for all types of sewing.
One of the most asked questions I get from both beginner and experienced stitchers , is where to buy good quality purse friendly fabric in the UK.
Previously I have given Stitch Bridgend Sewing School beginners a list but I have never shared it outside of our student group , but as my GEMMA STITCH PDF patterns become more and more popular the comments on blogs , insta & the website the question keeps coming …
Sooo… hold on to your fabric scissors…
Here are my recommended Uk websites & shops. Click on the name to go to the websites.
FABRIC WEBSITES.
POUND FABRICS – An ever change range of good quality fabrics at cheap as chips prices and honest descriptions – we use this one a lot lately.
ETSY – A real favourite of mine , you can find the most amazing fabrics at cheap prices with fast delivery – Just make sure to set the search filter to UK ONLY or custom charges may be added.
FRUMBLE– Funky modern fabrics , including licensed prints , waterproof fabrics & amazing range of trims
PLUSH ADDICT – A whole range of quilt and plush fabrics
GRID FABRICS – A lovely range of funky modern dressmaking and cotton fabrics.
SEW HOT – Every quilting fabric you could imagine , they also stock up to date quilt patterns.
GUTHRIE AND GHANI – One of my favourites – their dressmaking range is beautiful and well thought out.
LOVE CRAFTS – A great alternative to Hobbycraft with a lot of American brand fabrics and basics.
MINERVA CRAFTS– Great for all dressmaking & rarer types of fabric like brocade and scuba. Their own Minerva range of fabrics is to die for ! Beautiful patterns and colour ways at affordable prices.
EMPRESS MILLS – Fab sheeting fabrics & an amazing range of my favourite prym products
Annnnd finally….. drum roll please….. The Top Ten Christmas sewing gift ideas for Gemma… ahem I mean Adults….. 2021 !
After all , you’ve been sooooo good this year ! CLICK on the photo to visit the shopping link .
( Pssssst – If you are reading this on someone else’s device – the tab may have been left open as HINT – I shall make it clear – ITS A HINT !!!! )
O
NUMBER 10…
The Prym Patchwork and Quilting starter set is perfect for all levels of sewing ! Including a mat , pen , ruler and rotary cutter it’s the perfect gift for any stitcher
NUMBER 9
A sewing Trolley ! Need to transport your sewing machine and bits n bobs to class ? These are a must 😉
NUMBER 8
Thread is the way forward ! And look at all those pretty colours !
NUMBER 7
Clip , clip , clip clippy clippy clip clip ! You can NEVER have too many of these wonderclips ! And they make a fab stocking filler
NUMBER 6
THE marking pencil ! The Prym cartridge chalk pen is great for marking all types of fabric and comes with refillable cartridges in different colours , perfect for any stitcher.
NUMBER 5
Modern labels for modern stitchers…..
NUMBER 4
One of the most useful travel sewing accessories – the A4 multi mat ! Available in a range of colours these fab little mats have
Self-healing cutting mat with metric and imperial guidelines
Anti-slip layout sheet for placing blocks or pattern pieces
Sandpaper pattern marking surface to keep fabrics in place
Can be opened up to create a padded ironing mat
NUMBER 3
You can never have too many organiser boxes… but this ones our favourite ! It’s double sided and has a handle on the top so it’s easy to move around and keep all those precious threads tidy and safe.
NUMBER 2
Well there had to be a sewing machine in there somewhere right ? This Janome DKS100 SPECIAL EDITION is a fab sewing machine and great for all levels , sturdy and with over 100 computerised stitches you are covered for all types of sewing.
NUMBER 1….
C’mon now…. you know it was coming…. Sewing lessons have got to be number one right ?
There’s lot’s of shiny new workshops and courses on the way , and did you know we also do vouchers ?
Today it’s the turn of the Teenagers ! It can be realllllllllllly difficult knowing what to buy a teen stitcher , after all they are sooo different in tastes ( esp when it comes to fabric eek )
So here is my top Ten gift IDEAS LOL or ya knowwww whatttevverr.
Click on the photos to visit the link ….
NUMBER 10
WONDERCLIPS ! Ahhh these beautiful little clippy clips , great for sewing just about anything without having to stab yourself with a pin anymore hurrah ! Plus they have a handy little seam guide on the back , and are great for flicking across tables or using as a hair clip……….
NUMBER 9
RECYCLED Poly Thread pack – in rainbow of course ! Save the planet and sew sustainably
NUMBER 8
Magnetic seam guide ! May your stitch lines never be wonky again with this awesome gadget , great for when you are learning to sew straight, or have your mind on Justin Bieber……………
NUMBER 7
R…I….PPPPP To the seams you used to seeeee , those dayssss are ovvvverrrrr…….. everyone loves a seam ripper , but this ones a giant…….
NUMBER 6
Handmade labels ! Everyone needs to know its handmade and you can’t buy this ! Kylie and the machine have a lovely range of funky labels perfect for teen stitchers #cantbuythis
NUMBER 5
NUMBER 4
The perfect accessory for your pins ! The magnetic snap bracelet fits any size wrist and is super handy !
NUMBER 4….
In at number 4….. It’s the sewing kits we use in class ! Available in Blue or Pink these Prym kits are an essential sewing item. Just don’t forget to write your name on them or I will get them mixed up….again…..
NUMBER 3
Dressmaking scissors ! The perfect sewing gift for all ages ! Plush Addict have you covered with lot’s of sizes and styles.
NUMBER 2….
In at number 2…… It’s the sewing machine of Beginner dreams ! ! We use these lovely machines in class , and they are great for Teen / adults ! And a complete bargain at just £80
NUMBER 1….
Come on now , you know it already don’t you ? ME !
Happy Shopping !
See you tomorrow for the final part of the series….. Gift Ideas for Gemma ! ….. hahah JOKES ….. It’s adults honestly
It’s nearly that time of year when father Christmas slides down the chimney and leaves lot’s of lovely sewing goodies under the tree
It can be tricky knowing what to buy for someone who sews , so if you are reading this… take note ! It’s been left open on the device for you to see 😛
(Click on the photo to visit the link to see prices from recommended independent sellers / local businesses )
TOP TEN GIFTS FOR CHILDREN AGE 4-10 YEARS
Also known as Stitch Bridgend’s children’s sewing club !
NUMBER 10…..
A seam Guide ! These magnetic blocks stick to the base of the machine plate and help you to keep your fabric straight ! Great for practising those seams 🙂
NUMBER 9…..
WONDERCLIPS ! Ahhh these beautiful little clippy clips , great for sewing just about anything without having to stab yourself with a pin anymore hurrah ! Plus they have a handy little seam guide on the back , and are great for flicking across tables or using as a hair clip……….
NUMBER 8…..
RECYCLED Poly Thread pack – in rainbow of course ! Save the planet and sew sustainably !
NUMBER 7…
Fabric scissors for little hands ! These Prym love scissors come in a range of colours and are the perfect size for ages 4-10 years.
NUMBER 6….
It’s the sewing kits we use in class ! Available in Blue or Pink these Prym kits are an essential sewing item. Just don’t forget to write your name on them or I will get them mixed up….again…..
NUMBER 5…
A bumper sewing kit ! Button Bags make the most amazing sewing suitcase gifts … check them out – click the photo.
NUMBER 4…
A sewing machine bag ! Transport your sewing machine to class safely with all your bits and bobs 🙂
NUMBER 3…..
A bundle of felt ! Felt is great to learn to sew with , it doesn’t fray and is nice and stable for all those last minute fantastic idea projects.
NUMBER 2…..
The latest in children’s sewing machines… this Janome mini sewing machine is the same as our class John Lewis ones… but without it’s disguise ! Add stickers for the full on personalised look…
DRUM ROLL PLEASE…… NUMBER 1……
That’s right folks…. Number one has to be……..
ME ! Sewing Lessons are a great way to learn new skills , make friends and take home a lovely new project every Sunday !
Sewing classes , lessons and online sewing patterns for all ! YAY !
Hehehehehe.
I will be back with the Teen club & Adult club list soon… so stay tuned !
How are we getting on with those blocks ? Have you made it to the more difficult ones yet…..
I thought maybe a little visual guide would be helpful for those of you that are new to quilting 🙂
Let’s start with an easy ish one…. THE HST (Or hall square triangle ! )
Some of our blocks will ask you to make HST – Here’s how !
Place two blocks RIGHT SIDE TOGETHER . Draw a line through the middle of the diagonal on the block. Stitch 1/4 inch from line on BOTH sides.
Now cut on your line you drew in the beginning – Press your blocks and ta da ! Two HSTS !
Press *TO THE DARKKKK SIDE * and trim your block to the finished size as in your instructions. Don’t worry if your block is slightly short in places , we can hide that in the seam allowance later on 😉
DOUBLE HST
A little trickier …
Prepare you blocks as in HST above , stitching either side of your line , cutting on the line and pressing to the dark side.
Now , place the HST you just made on top of each other right side together with alternate colours touching ( So in this case grey and oranges )
Draw a new line. Stitch either side of the line , then cut on it. Ta da ! a double HST !
FLYING GEESE
There are many , many methods to sew these blocks , but for our sampler we are using this super easy technique.
Place your rectangle with the right side facing you. Put your first square on top. Draw a line. Stitch 1/4 inch from the line. Trim.
Press the block backwards. Now add your next square right side down. Draw another line , stitch and trim again.
Annnnd you are done !
Stitch them all together and you have your flying geese blocks.
I hope these little tutorial guides help make things a bit clearer 🙂
Next time we will be prepping the finished blocks using the quilting as we go method…..
Gemma Stitch 