The bags have it -- One Pattern, Different Fabrics

Fabrics change the look of everything. If your den needs refreshed, simply sew up some pillows in brightly colored fabrics. Don't like that skirt in gray? Make your own out of fabric that speaks to you and add a bit of confidence to your walk.

The ladies at the Original Sewing & Quilt Expo, producers of high-qaulity sewing and quilting consumer shows, took the plunge and decided to dust off their sewing machines, engage with some beautiful Rowan and FreeSpirit fabrics and a fun Kwik Sew pattern, Metro bag 3805.

The results are as unique as the ladies themselves. Best part, one of the creators had not sewn in quite some time. Making the bag, she says has got her wondering. How many of us have the skill to sew, used to have mutliple projects in the works but somehow sewing has lapsed in our memories. Great fabric and nicely designed patterns are a source of inspiration . . . and a bit of comraderie sure does help.

Why not challenge yourself and your friends to take fabric, thread and a pattern or two, and compare the results. Not only will you end up with a great new bag, outfit or quilt, but you'll have great fun in the process!

Laminated Fabric

Above are our newest laminated fabrics! The top photo is out of Anna Maria Horner's fabric, then the swatches consist of Heather Bailey, George Mendoza (Art of Possibility) and Annette Tatum.

Below are some sewing tips that will help you in your Laminated sewing projects!

Tips for sewing Laminated fabric
From Coats and Clark

Thread: Use All-purpose thread. Dual Duty XP or Coats Cotton All-purpose
Needles: Size 12 or 14, sharp. A smaller needle makes a smaller puncture hole.

Presser Foot: A Teflon coated presser foot will prevent the presser foot sticking when sewing on the laminated side. This is especially helpful when topstitching. A roller presser foot may also be used.

Tips:
Use a longer stitch length (3mm or more) for seaming and topstitching. Shorter stitch lengths can have the affect of perforating the fabric.

Select a pattern with simple lines and seaming. Avoid eased, gathered or intricate shaping because the fabric does not give.

It isn’t necessary to straighten the grain on a laminated fabric, it will not shift due to the coating.

Cut in a single layer with the right side up. For pieces cut on the fold, fold wrong sides together.

Mark with chalk or smooth-edged tracing wheel.

Holes may remain in fabric, so place pins in seam allowances and avoid having to rip seams. If making a garment, be sure of fit and make alterations to pattern before cutting out.

Do not touch an iron to the right side. Use a warm iron on the wrong side.

Welt, flat-fell or topstitched seams will lie flatter than a plain seam, since seams cannot be pressed open.