How to Replace a Jacket Zipper

So, what happens when the zipper breaks on your favorite jacket?  No worries, you can fix that!

I like to purchase my zippers at wawak.com.  They have a wide variety of zippers, they are quick, and the shipping costs are very low.  Every month they have discounted products and they will send you a monthly catalog if you sign up.

Measure the length of the broken zipper and see if it is a 2-way zipper.  Then purchase a new zipper the length and color you want.  Wawak sells metal teeth, nylon or polyester coil, and plastic teeth zippers.

How to Sew a Queen Trip Around the World Quilt--Strip Method

How to Sew a Queen Trip Around the World Quilt

--Strip Method--

Easy Cup and Mug Coasters-FREE PATTERN DOWNLOAD

Hello Creatives!

I thought it would be fun to post an easy sewing tutorial. These coasters are great for the beginner or someone wanting to learn how to sew. You can make them reversible, by using two different fabric prints, or the same print on each side. They also make great gifts!

Happy sewing. 

Amber

Click here to download a printable pattern 

Simple Placemat

A placemat can be any size but the most common sizes are 18" X 14", 18" X 16" and 16" X 14".  If you don't know what size would be pleasing and what would fit for your table and place setting, I suggest you cut up a newspaper page to the three sizes above and try them on your table to see what you like.  Once you decide your finished size, add 1" to the width and the length dimensions.  This will give you 1/2" seam allowances around all four sides.  Cut out two rectangles for each placemat and one batting piece.  Put the placemats right sides together.  Then pin the batting to one of the wrong sides.  All three will be sewn together.

How to Add Lace Sleeves and Shoulders to a Strapless Lace and Silk Taffeta Gown

Before

After

When I added my first post regarding adding sleeves to a strapless dress, I had not taken enough pictures to be able to take you on a step-by-step process of adding shoulders and sleeves.  I recently went to Los Angeles and visited FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design Merchandising), an amazing place, and bought this used silk taffeta and lace dress at their scholarship store.  I bought it so that I could teach my bridal couture students how to make a strapless bridal gown into a modest gown with shoulders and cap sleeves.  I am all about promoting modesty.

How to Add Ruching Straps to Strapless Gown

Before

After

Many of my clients wish to make a strapless dress modest for a prom night or a pageant and will ask me to add straps to the dress.  Usually the client will have something in mind for what they want.  I will usually study the dress and give some suggestions for possible alterations.  Try to keep the design and integrity of the dress.

Sewing a Pillow with a Cording Edge and Invisible Zipper Closure

 
 This is a knife edge pillow with a contrasting fabric covered cord.  I love hydrangea flowers and centered the blue/green flower in the middle to pull out the green color in my new office.