Monthly Archives: February 2012

Fabric Flowers

Fabric flowers are in full bloom. This blossoming trend is popping up on purses, lapels, hairpieces, jewelry and more — but the seeds were planted long ago. Our book Vintage Notions features a fabric flower pattern from 1927, along with this befitting …

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Fat Tuesday? Fat Quarters!

Fatten up your fabric collection with fat quarters. These pre-cut portions are perfect for patchwork, as well as for smaller-scale sewing projects such as yo-yos or pincushions. Trim some time at the cutting station by snapping up a stash of …

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Fabric Friday: The Butler Did It

Nothing like a Butler to usher in a trend. Amy Butler transformed designer fabric as we know it, and many have since taken inspiration from her fashion-forward work. Amy revolutionized the industry upon her debut — with vibrant, vivid and …

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Alternatives to Buttons

Give buttons the boot in favor of a less traditional fastener. Don’t get us wrong — we love buttons (have you seen our book Buttonware?), but maybe it’s time to set aside this commonplace closure and try a different technique. …

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Cloudy With a Chance of Green?

Pantone predicts vibrant and fresh hues in its color report for spring 2012. The premier authority on color, this institute has forecasted fashion hues for years. For this upcoming season, playful pastels and punchy citruses rule the runway. Pantone surveys fashion …

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Winter Scarf Remix

Fashion meets function with our Circle Scarves (IJ878) pattern, a stylish winter wrap. With a number of modifications, you can create many looks for this nifty neckwear. This beginner-friendly project (no finished edges!) requires less than a yard of fabric. Use …

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Fabric Friday: Home Decor

Thought home decor fabrics were just for, well, home decor? Time to think outside the box cushion. This stiff and sturdy textile is stocked with possibility, lending stability to totes and coats alike. You can skip the interfacing or cotton batting …

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Instant Style: Heart-Shaped Yo-Yos

This Valentine’s Day, wear your heart on your sleeve… literally! Handmade heart-shaped yo-yos add a romantic touch to an ordinary outfit. With a small or large heart-shaped yo-yo maker, you can fashion these sweet fabric treats in minutes. Plus, you can …

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