The Woven Spider Wheel Stitch is a versatile stitch that I use often. It makes a circular, raised stitch appropriate for flowers, apples, polka dots, etc. It winds up being raised, giving it a wonderful 3-D effect. Obviously, I love this stitch, and although it might seem difficult, with a couple of tricks, you’ll be …
I took my first home economics class when I was in 7th grade. It was mandatory for all FEMALES. Boys couldn’t even take the class. (Yes, back in the Dark Ages!) Eventually, I would earn a degree in Human Ecology from Michigan State University, but back in 7th grade, I got my first exposure to many domestic skills from this exceedingly old …
When doing any craft, there are some things we have to do that are more a groan than a pleasure. That’s how I feel about straightening the grain of fabric. To be honest, I don’t do it for most projects, but there are times when it is imperative that the fabric grain is true, and …
Materials: 4″ x 28″ piece of calico for the flower 3/4″ x 40″ piece of calico for stem, ripped 2 copies of pattern bead with large hole 4 12″ long pipe cleaners Follow the directions for the Rolled Calico Flower through step 7. Disregard all directions for the leaves unless you wish to add …
Rip and Tear Napkins are a fast and easy handmade craft for even beginning crafts. No sewing involved… simply rip and tear! EDIT: I first shared my Rip and Tear Napkins in July 19, 2009. If you would like to see all of the Rip and Tear Napkins in my cupboard, you can see them …
After you make one of these flowers, and find how very easy they are, you’ll find yourself tucking them hither and yon! Cotton calicoes were used to make this flower, using the same pattern we used to craft our Rolled Felt Flower. The calico will be smaller than the felt flower, but it is washable, whereas …
Supplies: Toilet paper rolls Crafting glue Twine Clips Yarn needle Basket 1] Cover the outside of the toilet paper roll with glue. 2] Beginning at one end, begin wrapping the twine around the roll. I do not try to measure how much twine I’ll need, instead I simply take it directly from the ball. If …
This quick craft basket is a great way to organize crafting supplies. Plus, it’s easy to grab for on-the-go crafting! It’s summertime. Time to head outside and find a shady patch of grass to stretch out on. It’s also a great time to grab your crafting supplies and “while away the hours” drawing birds and butterflies, …
EDIT: When originally posting this blog I erroneously referred to the Flat Fell Seam as a French Seam. My age addled brain “oopsed”. I have since corrected this mistake and have magically changed all references to the French Seam to now read Flat Fell Seam! I received my first degree from Michigan State University back in the mid 70s. …
A shank is a metal, plastic or thread column used to hold a button away from an item, making the button loose and easier to button. It also strengthens the button making it a great choice for buttons that take a lot of stress, like at a waistline. This is directions for creating your own …
Materials: Wool roving – I used Alpaca wool roving Form – real, plastic, styroform, or wooden eggs Dish soap Agitator – wash board, sushi mat, or griddle (optional) 1] Prepare a bowl of hot, soapy water. I use 1/4 cup of dish soap to 2 – 3 cups of water. 2] Begin by …
Materials: (yardages are approximate and based on optimal placement) 12″ x 18″ felt color A (Copper Kettle) 8″ x 10″ felt color B (Pumpkin Spice) 8″ x 8″ felt color C (Beige) Scrap felt color D (Black) Embroidery floss color A (Copper) (DMC 301) Embroidery floss color D (Black) (DMC 310) Embroidery floss color E …
