Accessories Made From Window Valances

Some time ago while browsing through my local dollar store, I came across some wonderful white, linen like cotton cut-work window valances. I immediately tossed about a dozen of them in my cart figuring I'd think of something to do with them.

My first thought was of tea towels. These valances were about 15" tall X 60" wide. I used a seam ripper to un-sew the rod pocket, and cut the valance into 4 equal pieces. I then made a small (about 1/4") hem on the top and sides -- voila! 4 tea towels for the unbelieveable price of $1.

By cutting the valance in half, I had enough fabric for 2 aprons. Since the valance was hemmed on the edges already, I just hemmed the one raw edge where I had cut it in half, added a waistband/tie, and a little decorative stitching.






I used some of the valance fabric to make some hanger covers. These are great for hanging those strappy little tops and dresses that usually slip right off the hanger. You can use them as garment dust covers as well -- for those things you don't wear often, slip the hanger cover over the garment.

First Sewing Projects

So you've learned how to use a sewing machine, learned about pattern lay-out, and fabric cutting, purchased your basic tools, have practiced sewing a little bit. Congratulations, you're ready to tackle your first project.

As a sewing instructor, I'm often asked "what is a good first project?" Pajama bottoms, a simple skirt, an apron, or a bag are all suitable projects for beginners. And, Simplicity "Learn to Sew" patterns are an excellent starting place. Because they are designed for beginners, they contain more detailed instructions, as well as a glossary of basic sewing terms.

If you're looking for a first project, take a look at my PJ Bottoms tutorial here on this blog. Purchase any "easy" pattern for pajama bottoms (I suggest Simplicity "Learn to Sew" pattern number 2290), some quilters cotton, or cotton flannel, and the appropriate notions listed on the back of the pattern. Follow along with me on my video tutorial, and you'll be showing off your new creation in no time.

Fingerless Gloves Tutorial

A friend of mine sent a pair of over-the-knee stockings, and asked me use them to make a pair of fingerless gloves. The picture she sent of her vision showed a thumb piece (as opposed to a thumb hole), so I sat down to figure out how to go about creating these gloves. As it turns out, it's pretty darned easy. Here's how I made the gloves:

Click on "Read more" to continue.

Wrapped Dresser

No, it isn't sewn, but it's in my sewing room so...close enough.

My next door neighbor was getting rid of an old pine dresser -- you know, the kind with the clunky metal handles. I was in need of storage for sewing supplies. Rather than spending hours sanding, and painting I decided to cover it with wrapping paper.
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Sewing & Embroidery Resources

Have you ever wondered where the sewing teacher goes for answers, inspriation, and ideas? There are a wealth of websites out there...here are a few of my favorites.

MachineEmbroideryDesigns.com -- A great place to purchase embroidery design files, fonts, and digitizing services. Purchase single designs, or packs. If you register (it's free), you can get 3 free downloads per week! Designs are available in most machine formats.

Sewing.org -- Even better than the Free Projects they feature is the "Guidelines for Sewing" page. It's filled with articles (in pdf format) on sewing techniques for every level.

Sew4Home.com -- I could spend hours just looking through their projects. The tutorials for their projects are clear, and concise.

SewingMachinesPlus.com -- They carry more presser feet than you can shake a stick at! The best part is that each foot description contains a link for information on how to use the foot, and some even have little videos showing projects for the foot.

ThreadsMagazine.com -- What can I say? It's just delicious. There's also a section called "Readers Closet" where you can post pictures of your own projects.

BurdaStyle.com -- Another place to post your projects. Looking through the projects section is fun, inspiring, and educational. You can also download some free sewing patterns there, and view tutorials.

Simplicity.com -- Besides looking at the patterns, I love looking through all the cool little tools in the Sewing & Quilting section.

I'm also a regular viewer of the "Sewing With Nancy" show. Even if I'm not interested in making whatever it is she's working on in any given episode, I always come away an idea, a new technique, or an alternative method.

Advertisements

By now you've probably noticed that advertisements have begun to appear on my blog. These are "affiliate links" -- when you enter one of these sites by clicking on the advertisement located here on my blog, I receive a small commission on any purchase you make. Click on "Read more" to continue.

About Sewing Lessons

Learning to sew is a process that must begin at the beginning. Begin by learning to use a sewing machine -- it's the first, and maybe the most important step for the would-be sewer. Simple as it sounds, it's a step that too many skip, and then find themselves giving up in frustration. In my Get Started Sewing course, the student is shown how to use every feature on the machine before we begin sewing. Click on "Read more" to continue.