Jessica Giardino, Author at National Sewing Circle

The Difference Between Interfacing and Stabilizer

June 17, 2018 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Blog, Sewing Supplies.

Looking to give a project a specific shape? Want to make sure that collar stays crisp? You’re in the market for interfacing or stabilizer. These layers rest behind the fabric and are a handy tool for every sewer to master. Achieving professional sewing results can be as easy as choosing the proper interfacing or stabilizer.…

Different Types of Sewing Adhesives and When to Use Them

March 28, 2017 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Blog, Sewing Supplies.

Whether you’re plotting an appliqué project, hemming a garment, or strengthening your stitches, sewing adhesives are definitely a helpful addition. It’s surprisingly easy to use spray adhesive, basting tape, and seam sealant in your sewing projects – you’ll soon learn that these tools belong in every sewing room! Spray Adhesive What it is: Usually found…

The Ins and Outs of Bias Tape

March 10, 2016 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Blog, Sewing Supplies.

Do you find yourself staring down the rows and rows of bias tape at the craft store? Not sure what to do with all those colorful packages but nonetheless drawn to them? There’s no need to hesitate when considering bias tape as an embellishment or seam finish. It’s a great way to add a personal…

Sew a Quilted Fabric Tote Bag

February 15, 2016 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Pre-quilted bags can be found in designer stores everywhere. Why not make your own for a fraction of the cost? I personally have been coveting a quilted tote for a few years. I saw some pre-quilted fabric in the remnants bin and jumped at the chance to finally create my own! This fun project only…

3 Simple Holiday Gifts for Guys

December 14, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Making something special for a guy in your life is easier than you think. These three projects take at most 30 minutes each and are great to give individually or as a set. I’m always looking for something special to make for my husband, and I quickly realized that handmade items make his day. The…

Sew Your Own Holiday Gift Bags

December 9, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Whether you need to wrap a gift in a hurry, or you want to make one-of-a-kind gift wrap, these two bags will suit your every need. Both gift bags will add a personal touch to any gift giving opportunity. They will also please and delight the gift receiver! I started making fabric gift bags a…

Sewing Vintage Fabric and Notions

August 19, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Blog, Tips & Ideas.

Show off your love of all things vintage by incorporating fabric and notions from bygone eras into a sewing project. A little bit of vintage flair can make a modern project look delightfully retro. I’m always on the hunt for unique fabric or notions. Read on to learn my shopping tips, care instructions, and sewing…

Sew a Sassy Strip Skirt with Drawstring Waist

July 7, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Who doesn’t love a fun skirt? When I saw Ellen March’s video about making a strip skirt, I immediately realized I needed one in my life. The best thing about this skirt project is that it’s totally customizable. Instead of a maxi skirt I made one that falls to the knee. I didn’t have any…

Make a Quick & Easy Oilcloth Luggage Tag

May 18, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Vacation season is just around the corner, which means it’s time to dust off the old suitcases. This season, why not fancy up your bag with a personalized luggage tag? Having spent much of the past month on the road, I came home excited to get back to my sewing machine. This fun luggage tag…

Sew a Chic Chevron Pillow with Zipper Closure

April 20, 2015 By Jessica Giardino & filed under Projects.

Decorating a new home is both fun and exciting. After painting my bedroom I decided I needed a few throw pillows to pull the room together. I’ve always loved chevrons, and I realized this was the perfect project to employ my favorite zigzags. You too can add a touch of sassy fun to any decor…