Tag: sew your own

Crafting Against the Grain

Wearable Art-Coloring with Appliqué

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To say I'm addicted to applique may be a bit of an understatement. I’m always trying to come up with new ways to apply it to my makes and I'm always on the lookout for new techniques I haven't tried yet. This idea came from a late night sewing session where I had the perfect panel for ”coloring” but I wasn't quite sure how to go about doing it. I tried a few different ways to sew on the appliques, including cutting the individual tiny pieces out and sewing them on but I soon realized that this wasn't going to work, and was much too time-consuming. So I thought about reverse applique and how the same principle could technically be applied here but in the reverse sense. (Hopefully, that makes sense lol. If not, don't worry because I'm going to explain it!)

Featured Pattern-The Grow Fonder from Apple Tree Pattern Co.

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The first time I tried the Grow Fonder Pattern from Apple Tree Pattern Co., I knew I was hooked! I mean, who wouldn't love the idea of a shirt that can grow with your child over a couple of years!? I know I certainly do! Especially because it seems like J is growing out of all of my favorite handmades way too quickly lately.

Sewing 101-Tips and Tricks for Installing a Zipper in a Knit Garment

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One of my sewing resolutions last year was to "master" the zipper in a knit garment. I hadn't had a whole lot of experience with them while using knit fabric, and it definitely showed. So, I decided to do a little research and a lot of testing to figure out how to get that zipper to look perfect every time. Now, there is definitely more than one way to put in the perfect zipper but today, I'm going to share the tips and tricks that I have found to be successful in my own sewing adventures.

Crafting Against the Grain

Sewing 101-DIY Faux Fur Blanket

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Faux fur throws. They are simply gorgeous and make me wish I was sitting around a campfire while on an epic adventure. I've been wanting to make a faux fur backed throw blanket for awhile now, thanks in part to all of the beautiful examples I've seen on Pinterest. I just hadn't quite found the perfect fabric for the top piece. That is until I got the opportunity to sew up this amazing red wilderness and inverted x's minky from Rockerbye Destash Fabric.

Cotton & Grain Sewing Co.

Featured Pattern-The Origami Sweater from Misusu Patterns

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Today I want to share with you an awesome new pattern that was just released! Back in October, I was selected to be part of a super secret pattern test for Misusu Patterns for their new Origami Sweater and Dress. I've been a big fan of Misusu’s patterns for awhile now, so to say I was extremely excited would be an understatement! One of my all-time favorite patterns is the diamond tee. I love the uniqueness of it and how the piecing combines my love of quilting with garment design.

Pattern Modification-Patterns for Pirates Peg Legs Go Moto

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The other day I was perusing the inter-webs searching for a pair of pleather moto leggings when I stumbled upon this pair from Spanx. I immediately knew that these were the ones I had been searching for! That is, until I looked at the price! All I could think was "man, I bet they are amazing" but I just couldn't justify the price when I knew I could make something similar for much, much cheaper!

Wearable Art-The Valentine Love Bear

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Appliqué is a huge part of my sewing "style". I love adding in all of the little extras to really make a piece of wearable art! I usually design my own appliqué patterns but I also love using ones made by fellow girl bosses. One such Girl Boss is Amanda Ho Hanson over at Whimsy Baby Customs. Her appliqué patterns are fun, whimsical, and perfect for the beginner!

Crafting Against the Grain

Life is a Journey…Fill your tank with joy

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Well, I did it! I've been wanting to start a blog for awhile now to share all of my favorite appliques, projects, crazy ideas, and the experience I've gained through making masterpieces out of messes!  I actually had it on my list of goals last year and as the year progressed it just got pushed further and further to the back of the list.  When January came around again, I decided to just go for it!  So as a little thank you for coming along for the ride, I'd like to share one of my favorite applique patterns with you all...The Love Bus!  This is by far one of my favorite, most versatile, and well loved patterns I use in my shop Cotton & Grain Sewing Co...