Fabric & Sewing How-To Guides

Make a simple tank top style bathing suit cover-up out of jersey knit fabric. You can also use lightweight fabrics like cotton batiste, or gauze that are breathable and comfortable. These are the fabrics you'll want on your body in the hot summer months. If you're feeling fancy or want a fun print, chiffon or challis are great options as well.

Tie dye is a form of Shibori, which is the ancient Japanese art of dyeing fabric. There are many different forms of Shibori including folding, stitch resist, and pole dyeing. In this example I'm going to tie fabric with rubber bands to get 3 different dyeing effects. Get creative with different ways of tying the fabric. You never quite know how it's going to turn out, but you can get some unexpected and beautiful results by experimenting.

Are you looking to make your own custom curtains with your favorite drapery fabric? It's easier than you may think! There are many different styles of curtains that are simple to sew, including rod pocket curtains, back tab curtains, grommet curtains, and tab top curtains. This tutorial shows you how to make tab top curtains. They slide open and closed easily, drape nicely, and tend to have a relaxed, casual feel.

This Shibori dyeing technique uses thread to create a pattern. The stitches act as a resist so the dye can't penetrate certain areas of the fabric. With this method you can basically draw with the thread to create detailed designs. With Shibori stitch resist, the possibilities are endless, so experiment with different designs and multiple colors to get beautiful and unique results. Want to get the orange ogee pattern and the printable PDF instructions?

With the Shibori pole dyeing technique, you can create unique striped patterns. They can range from fairly regular lines to fluid, ripple-like stripes. Experiment with different ways to wrap the pole and multiple colors to create unique patterns of your own.

By painting fabric with dye, you can create beautiful watercolor effects by blending and bleeding colors. It can be as simple or complex as you want. I actually like how the back side turned out better because there was more bleeding and the plastic under it created some interesting effects. You can combine this painting method with other techniques like batik dying or create a multi colored ombré.

These three different style head wraps are made out of jersey knit fabric and are easy to make. You can mix and match colors and prints for a fun look. Jersey knit is the best fabric to use for a great stretch.

Drawstring backpacks come in handy especially when going to the beach. You can keep all your personal items in it while keeping your arms free! These are ideal for trips to the beach or even going to the gym. Better yet, they're easy and quick to make. In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make your own drawstring bag using Duralee fabric and piping for the drawstring.

Racer back tank tops are usually made out of cotton jersey and are a great item to wear under blouses or on its own. In this tutorial I will show you how to create your own racer back tank top from scratch. Learn how to make your own racer back tank top that can be worn by itself, with a scarf, or under a cardigan for different looks.

If you can't find the perfect look or size for your shower curtain, why not make your own? You can use just about any fabric for shower curtains but outdoor fabric works particularly well because it's mold and mildew resistant, perfect for damp places like bathrooms.

Transform your fabric from boring to beautiful using fabric spray paint and painter's tape to create a unique design. Find out how with this project where I mask and paint an ottoman. I'll also add additional padding to make it more plush. This masking and painting technique can be used on many other pieces of furniture and on other surfaces, like wood.

In this no sew project I'm making an outdoor pillow using fabric glue. This is an envelope pillow, so the cover is easy to swap out. The envelope style back is great for many types of pillows whether no sew or sewn, indoor or outdoor. It's easy to make, and also easy to change out for a fresh look.

Making your own fabric bunting is easier than you think—and way more fun than buying it! It's the perfect way to use up fabric scraps and add color and customization to any space or celebration. So grab your sewing kit and let's get to it.

This keychain, also known as a key fob, makes a great handmade gift. The hook makes it easy to add or remove key rings or you can attach it to a bag. You can adjust the measurements to make it the length you prefer. Make it longer if you want to be able to wrap it around your wrist easily, or make it shorter if you want a smaller key chain that's easy to find in your bag.

I work with fabric constantly so I need an apron with extra pockets for scissors and everything else I need. I also sometimes like wearing aprons at home. I'm very picky when it comes to aprons, I like them to be tough, minimalistic, and have good pocket options. Aprons I've purchased in the past have never measured up to what I need so it's time to put my sewing skills to the test. I created this project from a service industry style apron that I like.

I just learned how to sew, so I thought it would be good to share my first ever sewing project, a pencil pouch! This pouch is easy to make, and can be customized with different sizes and materials. Great for handmade gifts!

I'm very cautious with my top of the line laptop, I make sure it's well protected when it leaves the house. Thats why I made this super simple laptop sleeve to keep it safe from the elements. Ready to make your own? Grab your sewing kit and let's get to it!

Summer breeze makes me feel fine… but it also closes my interior doors. Luckily I can make these easy, customizable door stops to hold them open and let me enjoy the weather.

Earbuds are a must when you're on the go but if you store them in your pocket, you're gonna have a bad time. This customizable earbud case is perfect for traveling and can also be used to store coins or other small objects.

Say goodbye to generic bookmarks and say hello to personalized, hand-crafted fabric bookmarks. These are perfect for gifts & party favors, personal use, and more.

Ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary by crafting your very own fabric envelopes! These envelopes add a touch of warmth and personalization to your heartfelt messages and special surprises. Fabric envelopes not only stand out as unique gift packaging but also become treasured keepsakes for your loved ones. These red envelopes are perfect for Valentine's day!

When it comes to gift giving, I'm not great at wrapping with wrapping paper. Next time, I'll use these super simple reusable fabric gift bags. Ready to make some? Grab your stash and let's get to it!

Making linen-wrapped books is a great cost-effective way add a unique touch to your home décor, and you have the freedom to choose the fabric and color that fits your aesthetic preferences. If you have some old hardcover books lying around, this is a perfect way to make use of them.

Looking for the perfect compact handmade gifts to complete your list? No need to cry about it, these simple tissue holders are perfect for holding travel sized tissue packs. They're great for using up fabric scraps, and they fit nicely in seasonal stocking-like receptacles (hint hint). Try using an outdoor fabric like I did to make it weather resistant. Grab your gift list and let's get to it!

There are many practical and fashionable reasons to wear a bandana, I made this one to complete my Halloween costume. Can't say what it's from I don't want to get sued but I'll give you a clue, it rhymes with Shmurassic Park. Ready to make your own custom bandana? Grab your sewing kit and some fabric and let's get to it!

This DIY table runner is a great project for the holidays or other seasonal events. Since it's reversible, you can use either side to change up the look of your table.

It's hot beverage season once again, so I made this cozy to keep my coffee hot and hands not burned. Download the free template, pick out your favorite fall fabric, and get started!

I needed some decorations for an upcoming party, so I made my own! These bunting banners are made using a free pattern with 3 different sizes and styles, and there are TONS of ways to make them truly unique. You can use these banners for parties, seasonal and holiday décor, and so much more. Print out the pattern, and let's get started!

Fabric garland is great for many different holidays and special events. You can choose the colors and shapes to fit the occasion. Hang the garland in a swag or hang multiple strings vertically. For everything from Christmas to Valentine's Day, birthday parties to baby showers, fabric garland makes for fun and colorful decorations.

A fabric flower bouquet makes a beautiful center piece or decorative accent that will last. Fabric Flowers can be made using many different techniques. I'm going to make a version that has a stem so they can be arranged in a vase.