Velcro is often used as a fastening for clothing, but there are many other options available that can be used if velcro is not your thing. I know that when I’ve received something with velcro as a fastener, I quickly look for something that I can replace it with. Mostly because the loop tape ends up catching on other garments and ruining …
Skirts are a popular type of clothing that come in a variety of styles, lengths and fabrics. But what are the best fabrics for skirts when you make your own? Are there fabric types that are more suited to spring and summer skirts over fall and winter? Today we’re going to take a look at …
Fur has been considered a staple in fashion for centuries now, but in recent years, there has been a growing debate over whether faux fur or real fur is the better choice when it comes to ethics and sustainability. While both fake fur and genuine fur have their pros and cons, there are several differences …
With the world becoming more aware of the impact of fast fashion on the planet, recycling fabric has been one of the ways to limit the amount of fashion waste going to landfill. But what is recycled fabric, how is fabric recycled and is it actually a sustainable option? What Is Recycled Fabric? Recycled fabric …
There are many types of sewing machines, each suited to a specific fabric type, sewing style or skill level, but while I have previously covered the many different sewing machine types available to us, today I’m going to be digging in to what a serger sewing machine is. We’ll also look at how it differs …
I’m a fashion designer – but I despise fashion trends. Not because I dislike fashion – I am passionate about fashion and how it can make each of us feel amazing and confident, when used sustainably. What I dislike about fashion trends is the exploitation, the lack of ethics and the capitalism that makes fashion …
Love them or hate them, the trench coat has been around for a very long time, and it appears consistently from some fashion designers season after season, year after year. Indeed I myself have designed and created more than one of this iconic garment type. But when was the trench coat created? What is it …
If you are a complete beginner when it comes to sewing, you can learn easily enough using all the free sewing tutorials on my blog, which is a great resource for newbies. But what if you’re going to be offline for a while? Or just like to have an actual physical book in your hands? …
While I have previously written about a variety of sewing tools and equipment, I haven’t focused on the essential tools a sewing beginner might need when starting out on their sewing journey. And to be fair, the tools a sewing beginner needs will vary depending on which sewing discipline they plan to learn. Some people …
Who here struggles with finding gifts for friends and family? Snap. Which is why I think it’s a better idea to create a list of Christmas gifts that you can sew for friends and family, and then space the projects out throughout the year. I know that some people dislike the idea of making gifts …
I love bow ties. I love them for myself and for others, and I’ve made quite a few in my time because they make great gifts. Today I’m sharing a tutorial on how to make a bow tie out of any fabric. In this tutorial, I’ll also be sharing the two ways I use to …
It’s getting close to that time of year (again) and you may be a bit like me, thinking about all the things your dad already has and what you could possibly get him that he doesn’t already have… Of course, it’s a tad late to be sewing up a big project in time for Father’s …
Back in 2023, I shared a video on my art YouTube channel about the ways that I use an every day sketchbook. At the time I was very new to keeping a sketchbook for everyday use – I’m more practiced now! – so the quality of the ‘artwork’ on the pages is probably not what …
This padded glasses case tutorial was part of a DIY gift series I created for my YouTube channel in December 2022, and for some reason never made it to my blog. I love the padded glasses case I made in this tutorial, and usually have it with me when I leave the house so that …
I have quite a collection of pattern making books. Its my biggest passion and I love to have books around me on things I love. Some people will stick to just one book, and refer to it as if it’s their ‘bible’ for that topic, whereas I am a little freer, and love all the …
I love fashion. I love seeing what’s new in the shops and what’s trending on runways. But what I don’t like is that there are very few designers or stores where I can walk in and get a great fitting item of clothing. My body does not conform to the ‘standard’ sizing, with its long …