How do you baste your quilts? When I basted my first large bed quilt 23 years ago, as a complete newbie, it was nothing short of a nightmare! I engaged almost my entire family—two sisters and even my husband—to help. It turned into one of the most stressful experiences of my early quilting years. We did the job on a small table with nothing but pins—no clamps, spray, or extra tools. Looking … [Read more...]
Sewing Bag Tips: How to Reduce Bulk in Seams for a Professional Finish
Bulky seams can be a challenge when sewing bags. Reducing this bulk is important not only for smoother sewing but also for a cleaner, more professional finish. While pressing seams open is often a go-to solution, bag sewing typically benefits from pressing the seam allowances to one side. Here's an easy and effective technique for minimizing bulk while allowing you to press the seam to one … [Read more...]
How to mark faux leather/vinyl
15-Year-Old Tool Saves the Day! Can you believe it? A quilting tool I bought 15 years ago and never used finally came in handy for sewing a bag! I’m talking about chalk wheel markers! Many quilters use these for marking quilts, but mine stayed tucked away in a drawer since I rarely mark my quilts before quilting (and I have other marking options, anyway!). A few days ago I stitched a … [Read more...]
10 Reasons Why Quilted Bags Are the Best Gift Option
If you enjoy sewing bags, chances are you’ve gifted a few to loved ones. Bags take effort, time, and money, so ensuring your handmade creations are beautiful and functional is essential. Here are some tips to help you create stunning, practical, and well-loved bags: A Touch of Handmade Charm Quilted bags showcase the effort and artistry of handmade creations. Each stitch adds personality, … [Read more...]
Level Up Your Sewing: Tricks That Worked for Me (and Will for You Too!)
I consider myself a perfectionist, and just a few days ago, one of my sisters suggested I should let go of it. However, as I worked on my current projects (which I can’t wait to share with you), I realized that sometimes perfectionism has its place. For instance, I’ve been binding the interior raw edges of some bags. These edges are hidden and don’t necessarily need to be flawless. But my … [Read more...]
How to sew two-color straps for bags: a step-by-step tutorial
When creating bags, sometimes store-bought straps or webbing can be a convenient choice. But for a unique, customized look, you might prefer to make your own straps from the fabric you use in your bags. I love using two complementary fabrics for my projects, and recently, I created some two-color straps. Here’s my guide on how to sew two-color straps—it’s easy, and the results look … [Read more...]
Essential tips for sewing bags: Mastering the Art of Boxing Corners
Boxing the bottom of a pouch or bag is one of the first skills we usually learn—likely on the very first day! There are several ways to do it, but I’d like to show you a technique I learned later in my sewing journey, just a few years back. It’s an important technique, though it is not used too often! But first, here are the two techniques that are often used (illustrated on a pouch, but the … [Read more...]
Essential tips for sewing bags: Keeping Bag Linings in Place
Have you ever had the lining of your tote bag pulled out when removing items or found yourself rearranging it when the bag is empty because it won’t stay at the bottom? Today, I’ll show you how to secure the lining to the outer bag to prevent these issues. Plus, I will show you how a simple pressing technique will take your bag to the next level. TIPS FOR SEWING BAGS This is the quickest and … [Read more...]
Mastering Quilt Piecing: How to Piece Perfect Quilts
Last week, I finished a new quilt, and as the quilt top lay on the floor, I was amazed at how perfectly everything came together. Then I realized something: I had followed all the steps to piece perfect quilts! This inspired me to share some of those tips with you. Whether you're new to quilting or just looking to sharpen your skills, learning how to piece perfect quilts starts with mastering a … [Read more...]
How to sew mini bags using the patterns you already own
UPDATED VERSION I know for sure that a handmade bag made with love for a little girl is one of the most beautiful gifts you could sew! When my sisters need something special for a little girl, they always come to me asking for a little bag. A ready-made bag is never in my stock! A trick! So it was time to sew a few new little bags and I thought to share a little trick that maybe you don't … [Read more...]
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