- All
- Free
Contemporary art quilts differ from traditional quilts. This lesson from Fiber Designs by Ann teaches you the difference between the two and discusses materials used to make mixed media art quilts. Discover what three components make up the “quilt sandwich,” learn about the origin of contemporary art quilts, and find out whether or not mixed media art quilts are used for beds or display. Decorate your home with homemade tapestry-like wall hangings!
Assignment:
Now do you really plan to use all the fancy, decorative stitches and exciting features that come standard on many new sewing machines? Probably not! In this lesson perfect for sewing and quilting enthusiasts, get a brief introduction to the wonderful world of vintage sewing machines. Learn why your next machine should be a vintage machine, no matter the type of sewing you do. Discover that when it comes to sewing machines – older is often better!
Assignment:
In this beginner quilting lesson with designer Kim Jamieson-Hirst, discover how to choose a pattern for fusible web appliqué and select appropriate fabrics for any project! First, get some tips on what materials to purchase, and learn about the KISS principle (Keep It Small and Simple) to ensure that you choose a pattern that you'll be successful creating. Finally explore fabric selection options and contrast and pattern in fabric choices.
Assignment:
There are a lot of makes and models available when buying vintage sewing machines. In this lesson, discover a brief history of the Singer Corporation and learn about the evolution of the sewing machine, including why there are so many good quality (and inexpensive!) Singer machines available for purchase today. Follow along with Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts and learn why grouping the Singer models into four categories can simplify your search for a used machine.
Assignment:
Vintage sewing machines that are for sale will range from some that are fully restored to some that look like junk. The best deals are machines that are dirty or even neglected. Yet, since vintage sewing machines are built so well they can often be rejuvenated with some TLC! In this lesson Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts learn how to rejuvenate a vintage sewing machine and restore it to its original glory with a few simple tools and some elbow grease.
Assignment:
You can get some great deals when shopping for a vintage sewing machine if you know where to look. Yet with so many machines available it is important to know what you are looking for! Take a seat and let Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts explain the important considerations to take when choosing a sewing machine model. In addition, learn where to find machines (online and in-person), and how to save a bit when making a purchase!
Assignment:
You can get some great deals when shopping for a vintage sewing machine, but how do you know that the machine you are looking at is going to make you happy? Follow along as Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts reviews the complete process of evaluating a sewing machine, including everything from researching information about the model, tools you need, and the specific items to assess before making a commitment to purchase a machine.
Assignment:
Often the best deals on vintage sewing machines will be for machines that need a bit of repair (because most people are reluctant to spend the effort to repair them). Roll up your sleeves for this lesson and learn to repair electrical and mechanical components of vintage machines! Learn the techniques and simple repairs that can rejuvenate even the most junky looking machine in a few short hours.
Assignment:
Mini flower quilts are a fast, fun, and freestyle way to make quilts using your leftover fabric scraps. In this lesson, you’ll discover an easy quilting recipe that doesn’t require a pattern, but instead encourages your creativity. Using a variety of techniques and tools, you’ll learn the basics for creating a 6” x 8” finished quilt featuring a custom flower design. You’ll also learn how to quickly hang your quilt for display using fast finish triangles. Quilting made easy starts right here!
Assignment:
You will want to keep your vintage sewing machine in good condition and the best way to do that is to use it! Vintage machines are well-built and don’t need much maintenance other than oiling, cleaning out the bobbin area, and giving them an occasional polish to keep them looking good. In this lesson Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts teaches you how to oil and clean your machine to keep it in top operating condition!
Assignment:
It’s almost time to start sewing! In this lesson, Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts explains how to set up a sewing machine to stitch the edges of fusible web appliqué pieces. Learn the best sewing machine foot to use and appropriate bobbin thread. Finally, learn all about bobbin tension, how to adjust bobbin tension, and by the end of this lesson you will be ready to take the final step before sewing: changing the needle.
Assignment:
Ah, the sewing machine. No sewing or quilting project would be possible without one! In this lesson Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts advises on helpful sewing machine features for fusible web appliqué and introduces thread choices for piecing a project. Learn about threads appropriate for finishing the edges of appliqué shapes taking into account color and thread weight. Discover how to choose bobbin thread, set up appropriate lighting, and what features to employ on the sewing machine.
Assignment:
It's time to make one last sewing machine accessory! In this lesson, learn how to make a bed extension cozy for a Singer Featherweight sewing machines (using a vintage sewing machine)! Follow sewing enthusiast Kim Jamieson-Hirst and discover how to make this simple project with scraps of leftover fabric from the Table Topper. All you need is a bit of batting and some fabric, and you are all ready to go!
Assignment:
The classic era of sewing machines includes some of the most iconic and beautiful models ever produced. Some collectors see them as art, while others see well-built utilitarian machines. They are both! In this lesson, check out vintage machines including the Singer 99-13, 201-3, 221, 222, and 15-91. Learn about the differences between these models and get tips on restoration and repair, as well!
Assignment:
Before jumping in to a quilting project, it is important to make sure you have all of the tools you need. In this essential quilting lesson with Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts, learn what materials you need and how to use them. Discover how to use a straight pin to remove the paper backing on the fusible web appliqué shapes, which marking tools to use for tracing the shapes, and why to use quilting rulers when arranging fabric.
Assignment:
It’s time to try the hot stuff: pressing and fusing! In this lesson learn how to prepare fabric and traced appliqué shapes for fusing. Discover best practices for ensuring proper placement of the fusible web appliqué shape on any chosen fabric. Finally, learn how to avoid "shadowing" in appliqué pieces, and review some tips that will save you from accidentally burning your fingers!
Assignment:
Now that you have a lovely, completed quilt it is time to hang it on the wall and show off your hard work! Follow along with Kim Jamieson-Hirst of Chatterbox Quilts and discover how to construct hanging tabs for the awesome blossom project. Learn an easy method for making hanging tabs for any project in this brief and fun quilting lesson.
Assignment:
Fun gift idea alert! Learn how to make adorable mini quilts featuring angels, dogs, and pigs. Then turn your quilted creations into magnets, ornaments, pins, gift tags, and more! In this step-by-step lesson from Fiber Designs by Ann, you’ll learn how to make a folded angel design, then alter it slightly to create a super cute dog or pig. This craft idea is perfect for kids and adults alike, and can be modified to fit any holiday, special occasion, or gift idea you can imagine.
Assignment: