A Step-by-Step guide showing how to sew a Raglan made to measure T-shirt on an overlocker and coverstitch machine. Here we have used the Baby lock Acclaim overlocker and Baby lock Euphoria coverstitch machine. Sewing jersey fabric can be a challenge but with the right machines it is definitely a lot easier! Baby lock machines are quicker and easier to setup as they have needle threaders and air jet threading for the loopers. Step 1. Measure & Trace the Pattern Once you have measured your bust and length trace out the pattern in your size. Cut out the pattern using a Jersey fabric in a ..read more

Introduction: A sewing machine is a valuable tool for anyone passionate about sewing or engaged in textile-related projects. To ensure its longevity and optimal performance, regular maintenance is essential. Proper care and maintenance not only extend the lifespan of your sewing machine but also ensure smooth, accurate, and efficient sewing. In this blog, we will discuss four essential tips for sewing machine maintenance that will keep your machine running smoothly for years to come. Cleanliness is Key: Regular cleaning is vital to prevent dust, lint, and thread buildup that can clog the mac ..read more

Our Bernina 475 QE review covers the many quilting features this model has to offer, as well as the main sewing machine features that may appeal to other sewers. The middle range Bernina 475 QE is an excellent all round machine and is suitable for quilter’s because it includes the #37 1/4” Patchwork Foot, slide on extension table and has 40 quilting stitches. This machine is currently on offer with a free walking foot and is BSR enabled with the option to buy the stitch regulator. BSR calculates the stitch length as you control the motion of the fabric to create unique free motion embroidery ..read more

A friend of mine asked me if I could make some hearts with the word ‘family’ embroidered on the front of them for a family who were adopting two children. On the Brother 870Se embroidery machine it has a selection of shape designs built in, I selected the heart for this project. I adjusted the size of the heart to fit with the size of the fabric I had. I then selected “add” and chose the pre progammed heart design 002. I centred this into the middle of the outer heart, selected “set” and then used the size button to alter the size again.  I then went through the same process but for the ..read more

With Christmas around the corner I decided to do some Christmas bunting for my next project… Having looked at some websites for designs I chose this snowman which had multiple size options as most designs only come in one size. The materials needed for this project are; white felt, Madeira Tearaway cotton stabiliser, Brother embroidery threads, ribbon and I used some scraps of leftover fabrics for the hats on the snowmen. I used the red and black thread. There is no additional sewing required and the whole project was made using the Brother Innov-is 870SE embroidery machine. The machine gives ..read more

A very quick and simple project to decorate and personalise an Easter egg! I purchased the design off of a website (it was just over £1) and saved it to my memory stick. For this project I used pre cut stabiliser, some white felt and a selection of Easter coloured embroidery threads. Once I had uploaded the design and added the name using the built-in fonts on the machine, I centred the font with the egg embroider. I made sure to rotate the design so that it fitted in the frame, allowing enough space to the left and right for the tabs. When the design finished stitching out I marke ..read more

A review of the Janome computerised sewing machines for beginner to intermediate sewers.  The Janome 230DC and 360DC computerised sewing machines are both suited for beginner to intermediate sewers. They start at £399 for the 230DC and £429 for the 360DC. These models offer an automatic needle threader, start/stop button, slide speed controller, needle up/down, lock stitch, reverse, and stitch width and length adjustments. They have a maximum stitch length of 5mm and maximum stitch width of 7mm.  All of the included accessories are stored in the removable front compartment which conv ..read more

With Christmas over and Spring around the corner I thought I would use designs with flowers and bees. For this project I used some spare plain fabric I had, stabiliser, tri fold cards and a box frame, and something to stick them together.  Fabric, Stabiliser, Embroidery Frame Tri Fold Cards Once again I located the PES files online and downloaded them to my USB stick. The colour of the cottons are displayed on screen but it is not always clear what the exact colour is (some look dark green on screen but were actually grey) and if I don’t have the exact match I use the Brother Embroidery T ..read more

The Bernina 790 Plus e is one of the top of the range models. It comes with the new SDT Embroidery Unit, Bernina Stitch Regulator (BSR) and it also has an integrated dual feed system.  The hook sews high-precision stitches up to 9mm in width with speeds up to 1,000 stitches per minute. The bobbin holds 70% more thread than standard bobbins, so you can sew & embroider for longer periods of time. Bernina Hook 7 Series Machines – Quiet & Precise Sewing The 790 offers 10 inches to the right of the needle which is perfect for large projects. An extension table comes included so you ca ..read more

This week I decided to try something new!  I am fascinated by the appliqués I have seen people do before so I thought I could try some out myself. I did some research on YouTube and watched some videos to give me some ideas. As a beginner to embroidery I took up my friends offer to go and watch her using her machine. This way I could ask questions, even if they sounded daft, you can’t do this watching a video. There are also plenty of classes that you can attend. So, with inspiration and a better understanding, I looked at some designs – there are plenty of patterns available to buy onlin ..read more