In between major projects, I have started using up scraps and leftovers by trying out new techniques and occasionally attempting crafts without patterns. I think ultimately it makes me more aware of what I’m doing, rather than blindly following instructions on the page. Here are two of my favorites. ![]() Paper Piecing I had heard of this technique quite a bit in the past couple of years and to be honest, it seemed really difficult! Fortunately, I found a great tutorial and a fairly basic pattern to start with. The concept is that you print the pattern out and then, in a specific order, sew the fabric to the underside of the pattern. Done correctly, you can piece very small sections that would otherwise be very difficult with a proper seam allowance. The paper (and some good starch) stabilizes the fabric, making it easier to work with. ![]() Resourceful Crafting I sadly had to say goodbye to a favorite pair of jeans recently, when they developed a hole that couldn't be patched. Fortunately, the legs were still usable for fabric, so I decided to make a bag from them. I also used some fabric left over from the baby quilt backing from last year. I had a very vague pattern that showed the technique of how to apply a liner, but other than that, it was just a matter of figuring out how all the pieces fit together. I also got to start using my new mini-iron that you can see in the picture. It was great not having to drag out the standard-sized iron! Comments are closed.
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When I'm not working, I try to maintain my T-shape. I love to read, garden and sew. I am also a foster home for Foothills Animal Shelter. Here is where I talk about these things and more!
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December 2016
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