Sit n' Sew Blog

Many quilters find fabric selection to be the most stressful part of quilting. Working with a curated bundle takes the worry out of fabric selection. I chose these prints from the Juicy Summer 10" square pack - such an inviting collection of pinks, oranges and yellows!  But...what color to choose for the block background? I auditioned a bunch of different colors before I made my choice. Let's take a look.I started with white. Definitely works, and definitely allows the colors to pop. B …

One of the best parts about quilting is how different fabrics can change a design. Let's take a look at the Ohio Star block - a classic favorite. This block is made with (4) quarter-square triangle units, creating (8) points. Add in a center square and (4) corner squares, and that's the block!Here's a two-color version with a white background.  Try adding in a third color to create an on-point square inside the star. Switch around the colors to go from a dark center to l …

Stars are such classic quilt blocks! Use the tutorial below to stitch your own star blocks, and then follow the steps at the end to transform 3 blocks into a beautiful table runner! We've used red, white and blue solids from the QT Shades collection - find your favorite colors here!1. Cut your pieces To create one 12-1/2" square block, you'll need: Red - (1) 6-1/2" squareBlue - (4) 3-1/2" squaresWhite - (4) 3-1/2" x 6-1/2" pieces and (4) 3-1/2" squares2. Mark your squares Draw a diagonal li …

Are you stuck in a creative rut? Here are 5 tips that we use to get out of a funk:1. Change Your EnvironmentSometimes, a change of scenery can spark creativity. Try moving your crafting station to a different room or even crafting outside in the fresh air. A new environment can provide a fresh perspective.2. Try a New TechniqueLearning a new technique can reignite your passion for crafting. Whether it’s a new quilting pattern, embroidery stitch, or a different fabric type, experimenting with som …

Sewing with cork doesn't need to be nerve-wracking! Follow our 4 simply tips for success and have fun creating a unique project out of cork fabric! Take Advantage of that Non-Fraying EdgeCork fabric won't fray, so you don't have to create a finished hemmed edge on whatever you sew (unless you want to!). This makes it easier to handle while cutting and sewing, as well as for the finished project. Skip the Pins Avoid using pins with cork fabric, as the holes created by pins are pe …

As seasoned embroiderers, we've seen our fair share of mistakes - both by beginners and experienced crafters. But fear not! we're here to share the top 5 mistakes made by embroiderers and provide you with tips on how to avoid them. So grab your embroidery hoop and let's dive in! Not Knowing Your Fabric LimitationsUnderstanding the limitations of your fabric is crucial for successful embroidery. Thin and stretchy fabrics require lighter, less dense designs to avoid puckering. Conversely, heavier …

Metallic embroidery thread adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to your embroidery projects, but many crafters find it challenging to work with. In this guide, we'll delve into techniques for successfully using metallic threads, ensuring that your embroidery projects shine with brilliance.Understanding Metallic Threads: Explore the Variety: At Sit n' Sew, we carry 2 types of metallic threads (FS Metallic and Supertwist), both from Madeira. FS Metallic or smooth metallic is a me …

Embroidery is a timeless craft that brings art to life, but it often generates leftover bits of embroidery backing. Instead of discarding these materials, let's explore eco-friendly alternatives and discover imaginative ways to give your embroidery backing a second life. Stitch together smaller pieces to make a larger piece: Often, after completing an embroidery design, we're left with stabilizer scraps the size of our hoops but with a missing chunk in the middle. Did you know you can stitch pi …

Embroidery, a timeless art form, transforms fabric into a canvas of intricate designs and vivid colors. Behind every flawless stitch lies an unsung hero – the embroidery stabilizer. Choosing the right stabilizer is akin to selecting the perfect brush for a painting; it ensures your masterpiece stands the test of time. In this guide, we'll unravel the mysteries of embroidery stabilizers, helping you make informed decisions for various projects. Understanding the Basics: Embroidery stabilizers …

Looking for an easy, quick-to-sew quilting project? Make your own tote bag and use up some of the leftover fabric in your stash. This simple project is perfect for beginning quilters and can be done in less than an hour. Your new bag will be perfect for grocery runs, storing new sewing supplies, or taking to the beach! We’ve rounded up must-have materials and detailed, easy-to-read instructions so you can learn how to make a tote bag. What You’ll Need to Make Your Own Tote Bag Sewing …