15 Minute Napkin With Mitered Corners

by Kellie Rose | Dec 3, 2020 | My Makes, Quilt Fabric, Sustainable Sewing, Tutorials

Here’s how to make a 15 minute napkin with mitered corners. We’re continuing out theme of helping you create a more sustainable Christmas… Fabric napkins are a fabulous step into sustainability & will make your Christmas table look amazing!

With some clever folding, a coordinating runner & some homemade Christmas crackers you will create an incredible focal point for your Christmas feast.

Follow this tutorial & learn how to stitch a mitred corner in just 15 minutes!

And if you just wanna learn how to fold your napkins in to some fancy Christmas trees then scoot down to the bottom of the tutorial for the lowdown…

Check out the Christmas Tree Fold

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

We have also published a tutorial on how to make Reusable Christmas Crackers – check that out here

Make some reusable Christmas crackers!

Want a printable copy of this tutorial? No problem! Request it below & a copy will be sent direct to your in-box

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Reusable Christmas Napkin Tutorial

Skill Level: Beginner

To make ONE reusable napkin you will need:

1 x 49cm square of quilting cotton (we used fabrics from the Makower Joy collection)

Co-ordinating thread

Important notes:

1.5 cm seam allowance throughout, unless directed.

For steps using machine sewing, always backstitch at the start & end unless otherwise stated.

Pre-wash your fabrics

1. Cut your fabric

Reusable Christmas Napkin Tutorial Step 1

Cut out a 49cm square of your chosen fabric

2. Press the edges

With the fabric facing wrong side up, turn over 2cm of fabric along each side & press.

Fold the raw edges under to the crease & press again forming a 1cm border around the napkin.

Sewing a mitered corners fabric napkin step 2

3. Mitre The Corners

Sewing mitred corners table napkins step 3

Starting at one corner, open out the 2cm hem on both sides.

Fold over the corner, the creases will have formed a small square. Align the 2 sides of the small square with the two 2cm creases on the underside of the napkin. Finger press along the fold.

Mitre the Corners of the fabric napkin 2

Mitre the Corners of the fabric napkin 3

Unfold the corner and mark out the fold line

Fold the corner in half bringing the 2 right sides together.

Pin and sew along the marked line.

Trim the seam allowance to 3mm and clip the end.

Turn out the corner, use a turner to shape the point

Mitre the Corners of the fabric napkin 4

4. Repeat

Sew mitered corners fabric napkins step 4

Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the other corners

Press then sew the border of the napkin with a 1cm seam allowance.

And your napkin is finished!

Want a printable copy of this tutorial? No problem! Request it below & a copy will be sent direct to your in-box

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Learn The Christmas Tree Napkin Fold

Why not get extra creative with your table setting and check out some napkin folding tutorials.

Fold the napkin into quarters

Fold up 1 corner of fabric at a time each one lying 2cm below the previous

Turn the whole thing over

Fold the left most corner up to the right pivoting at bottom centre.

Repeat with the right.

Turn the whole thing over

Rotate the napkin

Fold under one corner at a time to form tiers

Lift up the top layer and form a cone shape

Stand up the tree and you’re done!

Want a printable copy of this tutorial? No problem! Request it below & a copy will be sent direct to your in-box

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We hope you enjoyed that tutorial and have fun making it. If you make your own version please tag us @PlushAddict #PAReusableNapkin

We would love to see your creations!

Reusable Christmas Cracker Sewing Tutorial

by Kellie Rose | Dec 2, 2020 | My Makes, Sustainable Sewing, Tutorials

Fancy a more sustainable snap at your festive table this year? This reusable Christmas cracker tutorial (oh yes they did!) will have you repurposing your recycling, reducing your rubbish & reusing resources!

These christmas crackers can be refilled time & time again & stored away for the following year without fear of the snap losing it’s spark!

The core of these reusable crackers is a plastic milk carton & the snap sound comes from a knotted elastic band that pings on a milk bottle top & makes a satisfying SNAP sound! A fantastic re-purpose of your old rubbish… Don’t you agree?

Want a printable copy of this tutorial? No problem! Request it below & a copy will be sent direct to your in-box

Send ME a printable version

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

Reusable Christmas Cracker Tutorial

Skill Level: Beginner

To make ONE reusable Christmas cracker you will need:

1 fat quarter of quilting cotton (Check out our Christmas Fabric here)

1m Ribbon (we used Berisfords Festive Gold Edge Satin Ribbon)

40cm 3mm elastic

1 4pt milk bottle (label removed, bottle washed & dried)

2 milk bottle lids (washed & dried)

2 small elastic bands

Additional resources:

Glue gun & glue sticks

Domestic scissors

Important notes:

1.5 cm seam allowance throughout, unless directed.

For steps using machine sewing, always backstitch at the start & end unless otherwise stated.

Pre-wash your fabrics

1. Cut your materials

From fabric:

Outer cracker barrel 44×18.5cm

Inner cracker barrel 44×16.5cm

For directional pattern fabrics; the shorter measurement spans the circumference of the cracker & the larger spans the length.

From the milk bottle:

1 Outer cracker barrel 9×16.5cm

1 Inner cracker barrel 9×14.5cm

2 Cracker ends 5 x 15.5cm

2. Make the snap

Cut a slit through the rim in each side of a milk bottle lid.

Slot an elastic band into the slits & tie a knot close to the underside of the lid. Repeat with the other lid.

3. Form the barrels

Using a glue gun form 4 cylinders from the cut plastic. All should be curved along the long edge.

The outer & inner barrels should be glued with a 1cm overlap.

The end barrels need to be formed with the snap at one end, the underside of the lid facing into the cylinder

4. Prepare the fabric

Fold over the short edges 1.5cm & press.

Open out the pressed edges then pin & sew the long edges right sides together.

5. Form the cracker

Turn half of the outer cracker barrel fabric out the right way to form 2 layers of fabric.

Insert the corresponding plastic cylinder between the 2 fabric layers & guide it down to the fold line.

Insert a snap section, lid end 1st, inside both layers of fabric. Position it just above the barrel section.

6. Elastic casing

Tuck in the pressed seam allowances. Pin & sew around the top of the cracker.

Sew around the top edge of the cracker leaving a 2cm opening for threading.

Thread the elastic through the casing twice to form 2 loops. Tie off the ends of the elastic.

Sew the opening closed.

7. Finishing touches

Guide the cracker snap up to meet the elastic casing.

Tie a bow each and with 30cm of ribbon between the barrel & the snap.

Thread 15cm of ribbon through the loop in the snap elastic and secure in place with a knot.

To set up your cracker, pop your chosen treat/ joke/ quiz question inside the thinner central barrel. Insert the thin barrel into the wider one and your cracker is ready. To activate the snap, each person pulls the ribbon inside the end of the cracker then releases as the cracker is pulled apart.

Want a printable copy of this tutorial? No problem! Request it below & a copy will be sent direct to your in-box

SEND ME A PRINTABLE VERSION

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

We hope you enjoyed that tutorial and have fun making it. If you make your own version please tag us @PlushAddict #PAReusableChristmasCracker

We would love to see your creations!

A Guide To Cotton Lawn Fabric

by Kellie Rose | Mar 3, 2020 | Fabric Guides, Fabric Information Guide, Product Guides

I just love cotton lawn… Have you sewn with it? It’s divine!

I thought I’d pen some tips and facts about cotton lawn as we’ve had lots of new designs arrive and it’s the perfect fabric to start thinking about using as the warmer months approach…

What is cotton lawn?

So what exactly is cotton lawn, you may ask? Well, it’s a plain weave fabric that’s made from 100% cotton fibers. It’s similar to cotton voile, but it has a slightly crisper hand and a bit more body to it.

Think of it like the fancy cousin of regular cotton – it’s still casual and comfortable, but with a little extra oomph.

And as the name suggests, cotton lawn is made from 100% cotton!

It’s a very fine and lightweight fabric with a crisp finish. Cotton lawn has a lustrous sheen and a high thread count.

One of the best things about cotton lawn is how breathable it is. Because it’s so lightweight, air can easily flow through it, keeping you cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. Plus, it’s soft and smooth to the touch, so it feels great against your skin.

Cotton lawn originates from a place called Laon in France and has a smooth, polished feel.

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

What can I make with cotton lawn?

Cotton lawn, oh my! The possibilities are endless, my dear friend. Let’s dive into the world of cotton lawn and see what fun and playful creations we can whip up!

First up, we have the classic summer dress. Picture yourself twirling around in a flowy cotton lawn dress with the sun beaming down on you – perfection! You can choose a bold print or a soft pastel color to really make a statement.

But why stop at dresses? Cotton lawn is also perfect for a cute summer skirt. The lightweight fabric will keep you cool during those hot summer days, while still allowing you to look fabulous. Pair it with a tank top and sandals for an effortless and playful look.

Feeling crafty? Use cotton lawn to make a fun and colorful quilt. The soft and breathable fabric will make for a cozy blanket that you can snuggle up with on chilly nights. Plus, you can mix and match different prints and colors to create a truly unique masterpiece.

And let’s not forget about accessories! Cotton lawn is perfect for making playful hair accessories like scrunchies or headbands. Or, try your hand at making a cute tote bag to take to the beach or farmers market.

The possibilities truly are endless with cotton lawn. So go ahead, let your creativity run wild and have fun making something playful and unique!

Don’t forget that cotton lawn makes delicious children’s garments too!

And let’s not forget about facings – they are the perfect canvas for adding a pop of color and some extra pizzazz to your outfit.

Oh, and did I mention that Lawn makes for excellent handkerchiefs? Trust me, your nose will thank you.

Cotton lawn is the bomb for warm weather gear and linings because its fine threads create a subtle drape. Plus, it’s lightweight and breezy, perfect for staying cool.

Just be careful with lighter colors, they can be a bit see-through. And hey, if you’re new to sewing, cotton lawn is your homie. It won’t wrinkle too much and holds its shape like a boss!

Working With Cotton Lawn

Cotton lawn may sound like a fancy garden material, but it’s actually a lightweight and breathable fabric that’s perfect for warm weather. If you’re new to working with this material, fear not! I’m here to give you some playful tips on how to handle this fabric like a pro.

First things first, cotton lawn is known for being slightly sheer, so be mindful of your undergarments when wearing it. No one wants to accidentally show off their polka dot undies to the world, right?

When it comes to cutting your cotton lawn, a rotary cutter is your best friend. It’ll give you clean edges and prevent fraying, which is always a plus. Plus, it’s just so satisfying to slice through fabric like a ninja.

Now, let’s talk about sewing with cotton lawn. It can be a bit slippery, so make sure to use sharp needles and pins to keep everything in place. And don’t forget to adjust your tension settings on your machine – you want to avoid any puckering or pulling.

But the best part of working with cotton lawn? The endless possibilities for fun prints and patterns! From cute florals to quirky animals, there’s a cotton lawn print out there for everyone. So go ahead and let your playful side show through your fabric choices.

Cotton lawn is a stable fabric so is a good choice for beginners
Use a finer needle such as a 60/8 and consider using a Sharps or Microtex machine needle
Depending on how fine your lawn is you might also want to consider using finer pins such as these, which are dreamy to work with.
The best choice for a seam finish is a French Seam. You can use an overlocker but your seam could pucker. A rolled hem would also be a great construction choice with cotton lawn.
Watch your tension to avoid seam puckering
It’s a good idea to use a pressing cloth when ironing cotton lawn because it’s so fine.
If you need to interface your garment the best choice is to use a sheer one like Vilene H180
When marking your fabrics it’s best to use a water soluble marker to ensure the marks can be easily removed.

Do you have any more tips for handling cotton lawn? Do let us know if you have any to share.

In conclusion, working with cotton lawn may sound a faff from that list, but it’s actually a breeze – promise! Just remember to be mindful of sheerness, use a rotary cutter, and adjust your tension settings. And most importantly, have fun with your fabric choices!

Happy sewing, friends.

Don’t forget to share your finished makes with us – tag us @PlushAddict as we LOVE seeing your projects!

Follow Plush Addict on social media and keep an eye out for more helpful sewing stuff!

The Ultimate Vilene / Vlieseline At-A-Glance Guide

by Kellie Rose | Apr 9, 2019 | Fabric, Fabric Guides, Fabric Information Guide, Fabric Warehouse, Interfacing and Interlining, Product Guides

We have prepared this ultimate Vilene / Vlieseline Guide because interfacings and interlinings are some of the most useful products to have in your sewing room.

Vlieseline offer a vast range of products which can add shape and structure to your fabric but there are so many choose from so how do you know which you need for your project?

Who’s Vlieseline?

First off, let’s talk about Vlieseline.

If you’re based in Europe and have been sewing for a while you’ll probably be familiar with the brand Vilene.

Vilene became Vlieseline in the summer of 2016, different name, but the products are all the same and of exceptional quality.

For more than 60 years Vilene (now Vlieseline) has been the essential interlining for all kinds of applications.

Vlieseline products are the most famous and prestigious interlinings for those with a passion for sewing, for studios and for professional tailors/dressmakers!

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

Did you know that Vlieseline do more than just interlinings?

Alongside the top quality fashion range which includes iron-on, sew-in and woven the range also includes a comprehensive range of tapes to take your dressmaking to the next level.

The Creative Range is the perfect range of stabilisers for all sorts of projects including patchwork, bags, home decoration, or accessories.

Did you know that Vlieseline also offer a great range of waddings/ battings?

Suitable for projects that need a little volume of padding, there are also some flame retardant choices, perfect to offer peace of mind for baby projects.

With the help of Vlieseline we’ve put together a handy at-a-glance guide which will easily help you select the right product for the right project.

As well as the basic weights we’ve included laundry instructions, fabric suitability and properties, a quick guide to how to apply the product.

Want the Ultimate Vilene/Vlieseline At-A-Glance Guide?

Click the button below to grab your copy!

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Vlieseline/ Vilene & Pellon Equivalent products

Isn’t it annoying when you find the perfect project online, only to discover you don’t recognise the suggested stability option?

If you’re based in the USA you’re probably familiar with Pellon, and here in Europe and Australia the most popular brand is Vlieseline.

We’ve provided Pellon suggestions for Vlieseline products where possible, although we always recommend testing an interlining on scrap fabric first to make sure you’re happy with the result.

Vlieseline have an extensive YouTube channel which you must check out. It has oodles of video how-to tutorials on how to get the best from the range.

Grab 10% off Woven Interfacing with WOVEN10

We hope you find this guide helpful! Drop us a message and let us know how you get along, we love to see all your amazing makes.

Follow Plush Addict on social media and keep an eye out for more guides!

Brassey Cl, Peterborough PE1 2AZ, UK

How to Measure and Cut Fabric Perfectly for Sewing

by Kellie Rose | Feb 26, 2019 | Fabric, Fabric Guides, Fabric Information Guide, Fabric Warehouse, Tutorials

Let’s face it, working with beautiful fabric is one of the best bits about sewing your own, isn’t it? I’m sure I’m not alone when I say I’ve made a few mistakes along the way and messed up a project because I’ve not given enough care or attention when prepping my fabric. Today I am delighted to welcome Annabelle from Wunder Label who is sharing some invaluable tips about how to measure and cut your fabric perfectly to ensure you don’t end up getting yourself in to a pickle….

Even a seasoned seamstress will be faced with difficulty if they are working with fabric if they are using incorrectly measured or cut fabric. If you are struggling with your patterns and designs but are following the instructions step by step, the problem might be in your prep rather than your main body of work.

Don’t worry, though, because there are some tips that you can keep in mind to make sure you cut and measure your fabric perfectly.

Know What You Need

On the topic of measuring fabric, make sure you know your measurements before you begin to work with fabric. If you are working with a sewing pattern, this is usually pretty cut and dry. This is because most patterns detail how much fabric you’ll need.

For those who work to create garments, this can be a little more complicated, though. When you are taking measurements from who you are making the garment for, make sure to check those measurements multiple times.

If you are making a garment for yourself, getting measurements can be a little tricky. Your best bet is to ask a friend for help so the measurements are right. Taking these few extra moments will be worth it when your garment is the perfect fit.

Take a Second and Measure Again

All of us make mistakes while we’re sewing. Sometimes we even make mistakes before we start sewing.

Because of this, make sure to do all of your prep work twice. Check the measurements you need twice and make sure you know what they are. Even further, measure your fabric twice before you even think about cutting!

Don’t Be Afraid to Leave a Bit Extra

While you’re measuring and cutting your fabric, don’t feel compelled to cut your measurements exactly. To expand on that, don’t cut your fabric short but don’t be afraid to leave a little extra on your measurements.

Look at it this way: you can take away from your fabric but you can’t really seamlessly replace fabric you’ve already cut off. So, your better bet is to leave an inch or so more than you need on your fabric. Once you’re finished with your project, you can clean it up by trimming the excess at the end of your project.

Mark Your Fabric

If you want to cut a straight line, you need a straight line to cut. To ensure that you have this, don’t be afraid to mark your fabric. Tailor’s chalk is a popular choice for a non-permanent solution.

Find a Straight Edge

When you measure and cut, it’s absolutely crucial that you are working with a straight edge. To make sure they have a straight edge, many choose to use a long straight edge such as a yardstick when they are measuring their fabric.

It’s also important to make sure the pattern of the fabric matches up with your straight edge. For this, start by locating the selvage – the pre-finished edge of the fabric. Then, make sure to run your straight edge parallel to this line.

On the topic of selvage, sometimes you’ll run into a fabric whose pattern doesn’t perfectly line up with the selvage. This is usually caused by distortion created when the fabric during rolling, handling, and transportation. In other words, mismatched patterns and selvage can appear off grain but they actually aren’t.

To solve this problem, stretch the fabric on the bias in each direction. This helps to reset the weave and solve the mismatched appearance without any fuss!

Make Sure to Wash and Iron

When you are measuring your fabric, you might not always remember to leave allowances for fabrics that shrink. Without doing this, your finished product might not live up to your expectations after its first wash. To avoid this, take the time to wash, dry, and iron your fabric before measuring and cutting.

Only Work on Flat Surfaces

Have you ever tried to cut wrapping paper on a bed? If you have, you probably know its infuriating to try and get a straight cut.

This same principle stands when working with fabric. When trying to get a straight cut and proper measurements, take the time to spread your work out on a desk or table. Even a hardwood floor is better than trying to work on top of a carpeted one.

Make Sure It’s Sharp

Another wise idea is to make sure the cutting utensils you use are sharp. With a dull cutting instrument, you’ll find that the usual snap of your scissors quickly becomes a struggle of trying to chop through your fabric. Of course, this sawing or chopping motion can throw off your straight line.

Thanks Annabelle! Do be sure to check out more of Annabelle’s top tips over on her blog and why not check out her online shop where she sells the most amazing custom labels, ribbons and more which will give your sewing projects an oh-so professional look and feel.

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