Understanding Different Types of Sewing Scissors

As sewing enthusiasts, we all know how crucial it is to use the right tool for the job. And let’s be real, scissors are our ultimate weapon of choice! But did you know that not all scissors are created equal? From pinking shears to fabric scissors to embroidery scissors, each type serves a unique purpose in the sewing world. Using the right type of scissors can make a world of difference, not only in the outcome of your project but in the overall ease and enjoyment of the process. So, let’s dive into the world of scissors and get to know our trusty crafty cutting companions a little better….

Continue reading “Understanding Different Types of Sewing Scissors”

9 Tips For Extending the Life of Rotary Cutter Blades

It’s no secret that a good rotary cutter is an essential tool for any sewist or quilter. But as we all know, those blades can get dull pretty quickly if they’re not taken care of. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure your rotary cutter blades stay nice and sharp for as long as possible. Read on to find out nine tips that will extend the life of your rotary cutter blades saving you time, and money, whilst reducing waste!

Continue reading “9 Tips For Extending the Life of Rotary Cutter Blades”

Make an adjustable bag strap: Free sewing tutorial!

I recently found this fab vintage bag in a charity shop but the strap was too short for my liking… I decided to replace the strap so I could wear it cross-body, whilst adding a pop of rainbow at the same time ✂️ So here’s a quick post on how to make an adjustable bag strap!

This is a really easy project – knock one up in less than 30 minutes ⏰

Make your own adjustable bag strap
Continue reading “Make an adjustable bag strap: Free sewing tutorial!”

What’s the best wadding for a hot water bottle cover?

Autumn is definitely here! And so are pricey energy bills, so there’s no surprise many of you are sewing up hot water bottle covers to help keep you keep toasty in bed whilst saving energy by avoiding putting the heating on. We’ve had lots of people get in touch to ask what is best wadding for a hot water bottle cover so I made this quick video to talk you through some options…

What’s the best wadding for a hot water bottle cover?

Continue reading “What’s the best wadding for a hot water bottle cover?”

How to Enlarge A Collar With A Collar Expander – No Sew! Care & Repair Series #4

Welcome to post number 4 in our Care & Repair Series! Today we’re offering a solution to an annoying problem – how to enlarge a collar that is too tight… without any sewing! We’re going to be talking about how to use use a collar expander in this quick product guide.

We wanted to bring these little wonder products to your attention – who knew they were even a thing?!

These nifty little extenders are NO SEW and a great little temporary fix that can even be switched between garments.

How to enlarge a shirt collar
Continue reading “How to Enlarge A Collar With A Collar Expander – No Sew! Care & Repair Series #4”

Free Peg Bag Pattern & Sewing Tutorial

This post has moved to Substack!

You can read the post and download the pattern directly from the Substack Post here

Free Peg Bag Pattern: A sewing project for a Confident Beginner

Approximate sewing time: Around an hour

Finished Dimensions: 30cm x 30cm (excluding the coat hanger)


Tape it together in the following layout:

free peg bag pattern
  • Check your coat hanger fits inside the top front pattern piece, remembering there is a 1cm seam allowance. Our pattern has been sized for these coat hangers [affiliate link]. If the “shoulders” of your coathanger are outside of the pattern, just trace around the coathanger shape, enduring you keep a horizontal line at the top of the pattern.

How to repair a trouser pocket: Care & Repair Series #3

Welcome to post number 3 in our Care & Repair Series! Hands up if you love a pocket?! 🙋‍♀️ Pockets are a complete joy to dressmakers everywhere… but what if your pocket wears out? Or are too small? In this post we’re going to walk you through how to repair a pocket, not in one but TWO ways!

This method can also be used to extend a pocket in a shop bought garment if the original pockets are too small for your needs. The joys of DIY, eh?! 

Read on to learn how to repair a pocket… it’s easier than you think. We’ve even got a no sew option for you… 

How to replace trouser pockets
Continue reading “How to repair a trouser pocket: Care & Repair Series #3”

How To Use Fold Over Elastic

Have you heard about fold over elastic? Ever wondered what this product is, where it can be used and how to apply fold over elastic?

You’re in the right place! In this product guide we’re going to shine a light on all things fold over elastic so grab a cuppa and read on!

Fold Over Elastic
Continue reading “How To Use Fold Over Elastic”

How To Use Waistband Extenders – No Sew! Care & Repair Series #2

Welcome to post number 2 in our Care & Repair Series! Today we’re offering a solution to a common problem – how to really quickly and easily extend a waistband… without any sewing! We’ll highlight this little wonder product and run you through why you might need them and how to use these waistband extenders.

Let’s be real. The pandemic has meant that many of us have put on some extra pounds and clothes might have become a little snug!

Or perhaps you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and could do with an extra bit of room before buying some maternity clothes?

And let’s not forget – some days we’re just bigger than others… This can be due to our monthly cycles, or perhaps eating certain foods can make you bloat.

You might need some extra comfort post-surgery, or just after a jolly good meal! Or perhaps something has shrunk in the wash (that old chestnut…!)

Our bodies can even fluctuate in size from day to day so a quick temporary fix can help ease discomfort.

Continue reading “How To Use Waistband Extenders – No Sew! Care & Repair Series #2”

How to Repair Bra Hooks: Care & Repair Series #1:

Have you ever wondered if you can repair bra hooks when they get mangled in the wash? Or how you can save a bra that’s perfectly fine, but needs its bra clasp replacing? Keep reading and we’ll give you instructions on how you can quickly & easily complete a bra hook repair.

In this post you’ll find a full colour tutorial on how you can replace a bra back – it’s really not that tricky either. Yay!

This is the first post in our new Care & Repair Series…. we hope you find the series useful

How to repair bra hooks: A tutorial
Continue reading “How to Repair Bra Hooks: Care & Repair Series #1:”