Tips & Ideas

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How to Alter a Sewing Pattern

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We all know one of the most exciting parts about making a garment is picking out the fabric and cutting it all up in to pieces, but my advice to you is to be patient! First take a close look at your pattern – does it need to be altered?… Read More

10 Different Patterns for Sewing Bags

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There's a bag for every occasion, and we've got you covered on the patterns! Learn how to sew all kinds of bags at every skill level with the 10 patterns we've provided below. National Sewing Circle is also happy to feature some awesome bloggers from the sewing community in this article, including: Sew Much Ado, Sew What Alicia, MellySews, Ohoh Deco, and Life Sew Savory. So, start scrolling and see which bag pattern best fits your needs! Read More

Tips for Fitting Plus-Size Patterns

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Sewing can be a challenge even when using pre-drafted patterns and available resources. For garments intended for plus size sewing, however, more challenges may present themselves than the average sewer has ever encountered. Fortunately, there are some easy tips that can keep you sewing beautiful garments… Read More

Top 5 Tips for Hemming Pants

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There are thousands of folks out there who learn to sew for one reason only: to hem pants! We’ve all been there: standing in the dressing room, thrilled to have found that perfect pair of slacks that hits you in all the right places, only to realize that (shoot!) they’re… Read More

Top 5 Sewing Tips from the Experts

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We talked to our team of expert sewing instructors and asked them what special tip or technique they thought every sewer should know. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, these five essential sewing tips will ensure your time at the machine is pleasant and productive! Check out… Read More

Tips for Sewing with Leather

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Sewing with leather takes some special consideration. Real leather is created from the skin of animals – primarily cattle – though other animals are sometimes used including goat or sheep, or even exotic animals like ostrich and alligator. There are also very nice and realistic faux… Read More

How to Rehab Vintage Sewing Machines

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You see them at flea markets, garage sales, and estate auctions: beautiful old sewing machines that you’d love to use on your modern sewing projects. Most of them are shining black with gold decorations in swirls or art deco designs. If you find a great deal on a vintage sewing… Read More