Sewing Tips, Techniques, & How-Tos

Tips and techniques for achieving beautiful satin-stitched applique images on fabric. Covers design images, fusing web, thread, machine settings, and more.

Check the Dachshund Blocks Baby Quilt for links to the dachshund images, and Flower Applique Pillow Covers for the flower outlines seen in the video.

Design, decorate, or embellish your garments and quilts using applique. This tutorial demonstrates tips and techniques for doing satin-stitched applique on simple designs. Information on selecting sewing machine feet, thread colours, and sewing machine settings are included.

Design, decorate, or embellish your garments and quilts using applique. This tutorial demonstrates basic and more advanced tips and techniques for doing satin-stitched applique on a more complex layered design. Included is how to use an applique pressing sheet, as well as information on stabilizing the design, thread choice, sewing machine feet, and sewing machine settings.

Templates for the birds & sewing machine seen in the video can be accessed here:

Bird and Sewing Machine Templates

This basic zipper application is often found in the centre back of garments. It can also be seen on pillow covers, duvet covers, pouches, bags and other zippered items. Learn techniques, tips, and tricks to get a professional finish when installing this type of zipper.

My favourite zipper application! This zipper can be used on side and center back seams of garments. It can also be seen on pillow covers, duvet covers, pouches, bags and other zippered items. Learn techniques, tips, and tricks to get a professional finish on this zipper style.

 If sewing an invisible zipper is challenging for you or you haven't tried one yet, check out this video! It includes instruction on how to use a universal invisible zipper foot, as well as tips and tricks for making your invisible zipper "disappear" into a seam.

Front fly zippers can be challenging if you have never done one before, and even if you've had some practice! This tutorial features the type with an extension to the pant or skirt front that is folded back to create the facing. Follow along - this could become one of your favourite zipper types!

This tutorial features a front fly zipper with a separate facing that is stitched to the centre front seam of a pant or skirt front This type is most commonly used in jeans or casual pants, shorts, or skirts.