Threading a Handy Stitch MachineThis little handheld sewing machine, made by Singer, is often purchased by people who want to do a bit of mending. Getting it threaded correctly is the most important step. This is a page about threading a Handy Stitch machine.
Repairing the Elastic on Fitted SheetsRepeated use and laundering can breakdown the elastic in your fitted sheets. This is a page about repairing the elastic on fitted sheets.
Making Crown Royal Bag QuiltsThis page is about making Crown Royal bag quilts. A collection of these soft bags can be made into an attractive quilt.
Pattern for Fitted Queen Sheets?Making your own bed sheets allows you to choose your fabric and perhaps get a better fit. This is a page about pattern for fitted queen sheets.
Welding Cap Patterns?Welding caps were originally designed to help keep sparks from burning exposed skin when welding, but they are worn by non-welders as well. Making your own welding caps allows you to create ones that match your personality and it also can save you money. This page has advice about finding welding cap patterns.
Making a Dog Poop Bag DispenserThis is a page about making a dog poop bag dispenser. One way to always have a poop bag handy when walking your dog is by having a supply with you.
Finding Coronado Sewing Machine...This is a page about finding Coronado sewing machine manuals. Sewing machines purchased second hand or inherited often come without their manuals.
Making Fleece Lap Blankets?This is a page about making fleece lap blankets. Making a fleece blanket will help keep you or a loved one warm and makes a great gift.
Using a Handy Stitch Sewing MachineThis is a page about using a Handy Stitch sewing machine. The Singer Handy Stitch sewing machine is a small, battery operated handheld sewing machine.
Making Potholders From Fabric ScrapsThis is a page about making potholders from fabric scraps. Fabric scraps can easily be made into beautiful potholders, both simple and more complex quilt style blocks.
Making a Quilted Photo Album CoverThis is a page about making a quilted photo album cover. Dress up a plain photo album with a pretty quilted fabric cover.
Free Turban Sewing Patterns?Some sewing projects can be done using free patterns found at stores or on the internet. This is a page about free turban sewing patterns.
Free Dog Clothing PatternsThis page is about free dog clothing patterns. Sewing for dogs can be fun. Clothing can give your best friend extra protection from the cold.
Sewing Stretchy FabricThis is a page about sewing stretchy fabric. Sewing stretchy fabric can be tricky. You want to follow a few simple steps to ensure that the finished seams lie nice and flat and at the same time do not break when the garment is worn or the item used.
Making a Pot Holder Scissors PouchThis is a page about making a potholder scissors pouch. A pretty or seasonal potholder is the first step in making a simple scissors pouch.
Homemade Pincushion IdeasThis is a page about homemade pincushion ideas. We are all familiar with the ubiquitous tomato pincushion. However, if you are looking for something more unique consider making your own. Whether you sew, knit, crochet, or dabble in other craft areas, there are endless ways to make your own cushion.
Locating Sewing Machine Model and...This is a page about locating sewing machine model and serial numbers. When you need parts, finding your sewing machine's important identifying numbers can be a challenge.
Making a Sewing Machine CoverThis is a page about making a sewing machine cover. You can save money, keep your machine clean, and have fun making a cover for your sewing machine.
Making a Fabric Dinner Roll HolderThis is a page about making a fabric dinner roll holder. A fabric dinner roll holder will help complete your holiday or special dinner table.
Making Your Own Sewing PatternsThis page is about making your own sewing patterns. Many kinds of patterns for sewing projects can be made at home.
Sewing Pattern for a Remote Control Holder?I am looking for a pattern for a fabric remote control holder for the armchair.
Making a Tea Bag WalletThis is a page about making a tea bag wallet. Make a neat little tea bag wallet to carry your favorite flavors with you.
How Can I Make a Rain Cover for a Power Wheelchair?Recently I became the happy owner of a power wheelchair. It gives me so much more freedom than before, but I do have one problem that I'm hoping you good members of ThriftyFun can help me with.
Altering Men's T-shirts for a WomanThis page is about altering men's t-shirts for a woman. A t-shirt made for a man can be changed and shortened to make them fit a woman better.
Making a Quilted Picnic BagThis is a page about making a quilted picnic bag. If you and your family like to picnic a lot, it is nice to have a easy to take along bag for your plates and utensils. This project would also make a great gift.
How do I hem tracksuit pants legs?How do I hem tracksuit pants legs? They have a zip on each side and no elastic around the ankles. I would of course prefer to leave the zips the length they are now and the pants have to be taken up approximately ten centimetres (four inches).
Transferring Cross Stitch Patterns to Aida Cloth?I like to do larger cross stitch patterns, but find myself getting frustrated by losing count on these. Has anyone tried to transfer counted cross stitch patterns to aida cloth? If so does it help?
DIY Pocket Dog BedMake your dog this cozy dog bed with a built in pocket for extra snuggly warmth. This is a page about making a DIY pocket dog bed.
Crafts Using Yo YosThis is a page about crafts using yo yos. Those cute little yo yos can be used to make a wide variety of crafts.
Making a Thread Spool Pin CushionUse an old spool to make these cute and handy pin cushions. This is a page about making a thread spool pin cushion.
Denim Coffee CozyUse the paper cozy you get on a cup of coffee to create a pattern to make you own from recycled denim remnants. This is a page about denim coffee cozy.
Making an Ice Pack CoverThis is a page about making an ice pack cover. Rather than wrapping a towel around your ice pack, consider making a simple reusable cover.
Making a Jacket from Towels?This page is about making a jacket from towels. A jacket made from terry cloth can be handy after swimming or bathing.
Sewing Craft Items to Make Extra Money?This is a page about sewing craft items to make extra money. If you like to sew, perhaps there are projects that you enjoy doing that can also help you to make some extra money.
Finding a Pioneer Bonnet PatternSchool skits, harvest festivals, and Halloween are times when you might want to make a pioneer style bonnet for yourself or your child. They are also very good sun bonnets. This is a page about finding a pioneer bonnet pattern.
Converting a Twin Size Quilt to Full Size?How difficult is it to convert a twin size bed quilt to a full size bed quilt? This bedding is identical to my daughters crib set but I need it to be full size for her bed and it only comes in twin... any suggestion from all you craft seamstresses?
Making a Vacuum Cleaner CoverThis is a page about making a vacuum cleaner cover. You don't have to hide the vacuum away in a closet if you make a decorative, maybe even whimsical, cover.
Making a Mason Jar Pin Cushion and Sewing KitAn easy project to customize for a gift. People of all ages need a needle and thread for mending or to replace a button. This is a page about mason jar pin cushion and sewing kit.
Making a Blouse Fit Better?This is a page about making a blouse fit better. Whether your blouse doesn't fit as well as it used to or you have something new that needs altering, there are many easy ways to fix up a blouse and make it fit better.
Lining a Handmade PurseLining is a handmade purse gives a more finished look and helps it last longer. Here are some great instructions for adding a simple lining.
How to Make a Clothespin ApronIf you have chosen to use a clothes line to supplement or replace your dryer this cute apron is exactly what you need to carry your pins. This is a page about how to make a clothespin apron.
Making a Tablecloth DressThis is a page about making a tablecloth dress. Making a dress from an old tablecloth is a great way to save money on yardage.
Fixing Pants that are Too BigThis is a page about fixing pants that are too big. If your pants are too large, you can size them down yourself.
How to Make Elastic Tops for Sundresses?Many sundresses particularly children's have an elasticized top that can be purchased at the fabric store. However, it is possible to make a similar version at home. This is a page about how to make elastic tops for sundresses.
Bonnet PatternsThis is a page about bonnet patterns. Bonnets have a long and varied history. There are many styles to choose from when making a costume or a practical garden hat.
Pioneer Shirt Pattern?Does anyone have a pattern for a mens pioneer type shirt? I need to make one for my husband for a trek this summer. I also would like a pattern for a women's pioneer shirt and possibly some pantaloons.
Adjusting the Size of Fitted SheetsOne way to adjust the size of too big fitted sheets is to take in the corner seams. Try this fix if your sheet is ill fitting.
Making a Yo Yo Book WeightThis is a page about making a yo yo book weight. If you are addicted to making these fun scrap fabric circles here, is another yo yo project.
Making a Fabric Bunny DoorstopThis cute decorative bunny is also a functional door stop. This is a page about making a fabric bunny doorstop.
Adding Bra Strap Retainers to 100+ Choir Dresses?I would like to help out the local middle school choir teacher by adding some bra strap retainers into the 100+ choir dresses. (We currently have to safety pin the straps out of the way for each performance.)
Pattern For Capes For Beauty Shops?Where can I obtain a pattern for capes used in beauty shops, etc?
Making Dog Clothes Out of Baby ClothesYou can make dog clothes out of used baby clothes for your small dog. With modifications you can make cute outfits to help your little dog stay warm.
Making a Spa Towel WrapThis is a page about making a spa towel wrap. You can make your own spa style towel wrap easily at home and save money as well.
Pattern For Amish Prayer Bonnet?I am looking for a pattern for an Amish Prayer Bonnet.
Making a Fabric Book CoverThis is a page about making a fabric book cover. Put your sewing skills to work and makeup this pretty and useful craft for yourself or a friend that loves to read.
Making a Hooded Blanket?Hooded blankets make great baby blankets. In this page, learn how to make a blanket with a hood using fleece.
How to Make a Fabric Cover for Baby GateDress up your baby gate or add an additional barrier for a small dog by covering the gate with pretty fabric panels. This is a page about how to make a fabric cover for a baby gate.
Restoring Old Thread?Can anyone tell me how to restore old thread? It doesn't break or look furred, but it seems dry and dusty. I've inherited a lot, of all sorts, and I'd like to save money by using them.
Making Fitted SheetsThis is a page about making fitted sheets. Even a beginning sewer can make their own fitted sheets using flat sheets or yardage.
Hemming Jeans with Thick SeamsThis is a page about hemming jeans with thick seams. Sewing several layers of denim can be a challenge when shortening jeans. The right equipment and a few tips can make it easier.
Removing Stitch Witchery ResidueIf you make a mistake using Stitch Witchery, you will be left with a sticky residue that can be difficult to remove. This page offers advice about how to remove Stitch Witchery residue.
Sewing Satin Trim on a BlanketTrimming a blanket with satin gives it a finished look. Here is a page about sewing satin trim on a blanket.
Making a Coat Out of a BlanketThis page is about making a coat out of a blanket. Sometimes the best way to reuse a blanket is to make a warm coat.
Altering a Wedding Gown?This is a page about altering a wedding gown. When the bride is using a family heirloom or a second hand gem, it may be necessary to make some adjustments.
Printable Applique Patterns?This is a page about printable applique patterns. Applique is a popular craft that is often incorporated into quilts and other fabric arts. Finding printable applique patterns can be an adventure.
Making Fleece SocksThis page is about making fleece socks. Fun gifts can be made using fleece to make warm and cozy socks.
Shortening Men's Shirt Sleeves?This page is about shortening men's shirt sleeves. Altering the length of sleeves can add extended wear and save you money.
Making a Washcloth Travel Toothbrush...Using a washcloth and minimal sewing skills you can make this cute, practical toothbrush holder. This is a page about making a washcloth travel toothbrush holder.
Treadle Sewing Machines InformationThe manual treadle sewing machine harks back to a time when in-home electricity was not common place. It is still used in areas worldwide that lack electricity. Some crafters and seamstresses enjoy the excellent stitching quality and the gentle clickety-clack of the foot powered mechanism. This page contains treadle sewing machine information.
McCall's Patterns Reviews?This is a page about McCall's patterns reviews. McCall's patterns are one of the major sewing patterns available at your local fabric store.
Does Sewing Your Own Things Save Money?We have recently started living more frugally to reduce our debt load. I am very excited about our new life and visit this site for ideas and tips usually more than once a day. :) I am considering buying a beginner type sewing machine and learning to sew so that I can make things for our home instead of buying them at the store.
DIY Padded iPad PouchKeep your iPad safe in this easy to make and customize padded pouch. This is a page about making a DIY padded iPad pouch.
Making a Camisole InsertThis is a page about making a camisole insert. If you are handy, you can make your own camisole insert for your favorite top.
Portable PlayhouseThis is a Goldilocks and the Three Bears playhouse. I used a pattern online and adapted it for this fairy tale story.
Knot PurseVery simple, quick-to-sew reversible purse.
Mother Goose's New BonnetThis is my old Mother Goose stuffed toy I had as a child in the late 50's, early 60's. She was missing her bonnet so I decided to make her one. I found what the original bonnet looked like but came up with this simple bonnet that could also be used for a doll.
Drawstring BackpacksI made these for a charity who gives backpacks filled with various items to cancer patients who are children.
Handmade Men's TieThis was my first attempt at making a man's tie. I made it out of fabric that matched my daughter's homemade Easter skirt. Her boyfriend wore this tie for Easter to go with her skirt. Turned out great!
Cleaning Dusting GlovesNylon perfectly helps to clean the glass and make it shiny just like microfiber fabric or newspaper. It is quite difficult to clean small curved glass objects with a newspaper or a piece of fabric. In such cases, nylon gloves are simply irreplaceable.
Tortilla WarmerThis is a fun way to warm up tortillas and to keep them warm on the dinner table while assembling burritos or tacos.
Origami BagThe design of this bag was inspired by origami. The bag has the shape of a regular hexagon. I decided not to overload the design of this bag with unnecessary décor, since the flower formed from the folds of fabric is a sufficient decoration for it. You can change the look of this bag and use it as a purse or a shoulder bag or wristlet or pouch or minaudière.
Activity ApronThis activity apron could be used for a variety of purposes--for a teacher, for a children's church class, at home use with your own children, a grandma with grandchildren, etc. Items or activity cards are placed in each of the pockets and worn by the teacher, leader, parent, etc.
Halloween Tree SkirtI made this tree skirt for a friend who leaves her Christmas tree up all year around and decorates it for the holidays.
World Map BlanketI really like the combination of rough burlap with satin fabric. I just had a piece of blue satin fabric that reminded me of the surface of the ocean. And the rough burlap reminds me of soil. So I got the idea to combine these two contrasting fabrics and sew a blanket in the form of a world map. I didn't buy burlap, but used four burlap bags. So even from the bags, you can sew this original blanket.
Threading Elastic Through Casing?What is the best/fastest way to thread elastic through casing?
Sequins from Fish ScalesIf you need sequins to decorate something not big, but do not want to spend money, then make sequins yourself from fish scales. You can also dye these sequins any color.
Reversible Japanese Knot BagUse old jeans of different colors to sew this original Japanese bag. This bag is made of two different fabrics and is reversible. You will get two different looks in one bag.
Reversible Hot PadThese are hot pads I made to coordinate with my dishes for a more decorative table setting. Definition of a hot pad - a pad for use under a hot dish to protect a table. (They are not potholders! Potholders are used for protection from the heat when removing something hot from the stove or oven.)
Lacey SachetsJust a little pretty gift to give a female friend
Fabric Keyboard CoverI needed a custom-made keyboard cover to protect this keyboard I inherited from my father who passed away in 1998.
Mask Organizer/HamperMy daughter has about 30 masks because she works at a school and must change them out daily, sometimes more than once a day. In order to keep them organized, I came up with this organizer/mini mask hamper which she can hang in her closet. It also helps her choose what color she wants to coordinate with what she wears each day. It has a front and back for efficient storage!
Savannah BagI've made a lot of bags, but my favorite is the Savannah bag. I named it after my daughter because it's pretty in pink.
Scrappy Funky DollThis doll is made from scraps of muslin, fabric, and felt.
Upcycled Bridal GarterI had a bridal garter that we couldn't even give away in my area. I made it into a skirt for a Barbie doll. I also cut off the long ribbons in the front to a more manageable length.
Canning Jar Sewing KitThis is a miniature sewing kit, which holds a few basic sewing supplies, for the beginner seamstress. I put straight pins on the pincushion top, a pair of scissors, some thread, a measuring tape, some needles, and small scraps of fabric into the jar.
Converting SheetsIf you have sheets that are the wrong size, sometimes you can modify them to fit. This works best if you are going from larger to smaller.
Keeping Thread Knots SecureAfter finishing any type of hand sewing, I use a small dab of clear nail polish right on the knot to keep the knot/thread secure and from unraveling.
Ripping Seams EasilyI do a lot of sewing and sometimes make mistakes, resulting in having to rip out seams. While ripping the hem of an old flannel sheet to make pet bed covers, I knew it would take too much time.
Making a Bedhugger ComforterOne way to keep the comforter on your bed it to sew a pocket at the bottom to fit over the mattress. This page contains some suggestions for making a bedhugger comforter.
Making a Fabric Bowl Hot PadFabric and quilt batting are sewn up into a form fitting hot pad for your next bowl of soup or other hot dish. Let one of our crafters show you how to make this practical scrap fabric project.
Sewing a Tissue Case with PocketMake a cute little fabric case for a purse/pocket sized facial tissue package. This example goes one step beyond and incorporates a nice little pocket for lip balm, hand sanitizer, or lotion.
Tufting a ComforterTufting is one method of tying the layers of a comforter or quilt together to keep the batting from moving or bunching up inside the fabric sandwich. Learn how to add tufting to a comforter on this page.
Drawstring BackpacksI made these for a charity who gives backpacks filled with various items to cancer patients who are children.
Reversible Japanese Knot BagUse old jeans of different colors to sew this original Japanese bag. This bag is made of two different fabrics and is reversible. You will get two different looks in one bag.
World Map BlanketI really like the combination of rough burlap with satin fabric. I just had a piece of blue satin fabric that reminded me of the surface of the ocean. And the rough burlap reminds me of soil. So I got the idea to combine these two contrasting fabrics and sew a blanket in the form of a world map. I didn't buy burlap, but used four burlap bags. So even from the bags, you can sew this original blanket.
Activity ApronThis activity apron could be used for a variety of purposes--for a teacher, for a children's church class, at home use with your own children, a grandma with grandchildren, etc. Items or activity cards are placed in each of the pockets and worn by the teacher, leader, parent, etc.
Handmade Men's TieThis was my first attempt at making a man's tie. I made it out of fabric that matched my daughter's homemade Easter skirt. Her boyfriend wore this tie for Easter to go with her skirt. Turned out great!
Origami BagThe design of this bag was inspired by origami. The bag has the shape of a regular hexagon. I decided not to overload the design of this bag with unnecessary décor, since the flower formed from the folds of fabric is a sufficient decoration for it. You can change the look of this bag and use it as a purse or a shoulder bag or wristlet or pouch or minaudière.
Golf Tee Bobbin HolderUse extra golf tees to hold sewing machine bobbins. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Sand Filled Fabric Book Page WeightsThis adorable book weight can be made from sand and scrap fabric. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Fleece Hand WarmersThese cosy hand warmers can be made with leftover fleece from crafting projects. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Padded iPad PouchThis video shows you the process of making an iPad sleeve. This pouch is super cute and makes a great gift.
Yo Yo KeychainUse fabric yoyos and a button to make a personalized keychain. Learn how to make it in this short video.
Ring PincushionThis cute and handy pincushion is conveniently attached to a loop to fit your finger. Learn how to make it with this short video.
Cleaning Dusting GlovesNylon perfectly helps to clean the glass and make it shiny just like microfiber fabric or newspaper. It is quite difficult to clean small curved glass objects with a newspaper or a piece of fabric. In such cases, nylon gloves are simply irreplaceable.
Knot PurseVery simple, quick-to-sew reversible purse.
Tortilla WarmerThis is a fun way to warm up tortillas and to keep them warm on the dinner table while assembling burritos or tacos.
QuillowThis is a quilt and a pillow, called a "Quillow"
Mother Goose's New BonnetThis is my old Mother Goose stuffed toy I had as a child in the late 50's, early 60's. She was missing her bonnet so I decided to make her one. I found what the original bonnet looked like but came up with this simple bonnet that could also be used for a doll.
Sequins from Fish ScalesIf you need sequins to decorate something not big, but do not want to spend money, then make sequins yourself from fish scales. You can also dye these sequins any color.
Saving An Old Baby Blanket?This blanket is from 1977. It was my mom's when she was a baby and maybe her unborn older brother's first, we are not sure. I've had it my whole life (I'm 14). I've come to terms that it is normal for teens, even adults to have emotional support blankets. I'm want to share my life with this blanket, but the thing is, even when I was a new born baby I rubbed in between my fingers, and still do, just not as much.
Repairing Holes in a Baby Blanket?I have a baby blanket and I want to fix the holes. I have tried sewing the holes together, but the fabric tore more. Any suggestions? I love the blanket and don't want it to tear apart! There are holes like the one is the picture is 4 or 5 other spots as well!
Help with Simplicity Sewing MachineHi, I have a simplicity SL415 sewing machine. I can't figure out where the thread spool sits. Usually there is a metal rod. The top right shows where you place a bobbin to thread it but I don't know where the spool goes.
Threading Elastic Through Casing?What is the best/fastest way to thread elastic through casing?
How Do I Thread a Sewing Machine?How do I thread my machine? Where is C and F?
What Type of Elastic for Sewing Fitted Sheets?I'm replacing the elastic on my fitted sheet. I know I need 1/4inch and I know the length. But I'm finding elasticity descriptions that say "highly elastic" or "heavy stretch." Any guidance on what's best? My main goal here is NOT having the sheet come loose at night, even if it means a little more effort when I make the bed. Thanks for the help!
