Perfecting the Tote Bag–Part 2, the Sheep in Sweaters Tote from Art and Quilting in Camden

So FINALLY we get to the Sheep in Sweaters Tote! When I started the previous post, I discovered I’d never blogged about the turquoise tote, which is the forerunner and partner of this one! I will say now that I have finished this post (Part 2), it is LONG–but I wanted to be sure you got ALL the good info. If you’re here for just the totebag part, skim the embroidery bits! Thanks for reading!

Those of you who get my newsletter (sign up in right sidebar on this blog or the bottom of all the other ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 7 months ago. under #byanniepatterns , #corkfabric , #cottonfabric , #fabricfunhouse , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomesewing , #machineembroidery , #oesd , #sarahannsmith , #sarahannsmithartist , #totebag , #tulapink , @janomeamerica , @janomesewingmachines , applique , crafty , creativity , edge finishes and bindings , embroidery , favorite products , free tutorials and patterns , janome , janomeartisan , knitting , machine applique , machine embroidery , machine quilting , presser feet , sewing , sewing hints , techniques , tools of the trade , tutorials (Comments)

Perfecting the Tote Bag–Part 1, the Turquoise Onion Tote from Art and Quilting in Camden

Confession: I love boxes, bags, baskets…. the more, the merrier. I still wonder what happened to that plaid and a little bit of leather bag I had when I was six! And I love having my bags work for me, offering the perfect combination of color, print and cloth, and function.

Over the years I have learned that I HATE rummaging around in the pitch dark bottom of a deep bag. I think of those as North-South bags, taller than they are wide. I vastly prefer East-West–where I can actually FIND stuff inside. It also means black and other ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 7 months ago. under #artistauthorquilterteacher , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #learnwithsarah , #maine , @janomesewingmachines , color , edge finishes and bindings , fabric design , favorite products , free tutorials and patterns , janome , janomeartisan , machine quilting , presser feet , sewing hints , surface design , surface pattern design , techniques , tools of the trade , tutorials (Comments)

Moss Jacket, new for summer! from Art and Quilting in Camden

It’s time for some summer fun–in this case a lightweight summer jacket that has languished since last summer! The pattern is the Moss Jacket from Helen’s Closet Patterns and the fabric is this one from Blackbird Fabrics in Canada. I’ve ordered from Blackbird before and luckily had no issues with US customs.
I love a super light jacket–I don’t care for the feel of 99% of sunscreens, but I burn very quickly. This type of garment is my solution. When making a garment, the first thing I do is figure out my fabric layout ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 9 months, 1 week ago. under #garmentmaking , #garmentsewing , #garmentsewingtutorial , #handmade , #helensclosetpatterns , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #learnwithsarah , #m7continental , #mossjacket , #sarahannsmithq , garment sewing , garments , janome , patterns , presser feet , techniques (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 9-hems, a bonus scarf and wrap-up from Art and Quilting in Camden

Hard to believe the ninth and final lesson is here already! Thank you for following along. Links to all nine of the posts in this series are now listed at the bottom of each lesson and on my Resources page! If you remember this down the line, the fastest way to find it is put “Plaid” in the search box at right on the blog OR look for a link to the Plaid Top Tutorials on my Resources page, here.

To recap, we have:

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #artistauthorquilterteacher , #byanniestiletto , #fabricsstore , #garmentsewing , #garmentsewingtutorial , #hongkongfinish , #hongkongseams , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #janomesewing , #learnwithsarah , @janomeamerica , @janomesewingmachines , favorite products , free tutorials and patterns , garment sewing , garments , janome , presser feet , sewing hints , tools of the trade (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 8–Lined Patch Pocket from Art and Quilting in Camden

Today we move on to another fun technique: a lined patch pocket. I kinda made this up along the way (my first photos are not included because I figured out a better way…this is the revised and improved method!). The flannel is SO soft and comfy–in part because the weave is dense but not terribly tight. That means I might be able to wear holes in the bottom of the pockets, so I decided to give them some strength and structure by adding a lining. The hand-dyed blue was in my stash and worked well enough I also ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #artistauthorquilterteacher , #byanniestiletto , #fabricsstore , #garmentsewing , #garmentsewingtutorial , #hongkongfinish , #hongkongseams , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #janomesewing , #learnwithsarah , #linen , @janomeamerica , @janomesewingmachines , classes , edge finishes and bindings , garment sewing , janome , janomeartisan , presser feet , sewing hints , teaching , techniques (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 7-Hong Kong Finish Seams from Art and Quilting in Camden

Hong Kong seams are a thing of beauty–a little extra work but a secret delight! So even though I didn’t use them in this plaid top, I’m including them with all the seam lessons in this series of technique posts. I did use them on both my Simplicity S8883 top, full blogpost here, and the Brumby Skirt. I also used this finish on a jacket I made for my daughter-in-law some years ago that I swear I wish she could wear inside out LOL!

That lime green on the shoulder and princess seams is a Hong Kong ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #artistauthorquilterteacher , #fabricsstore , #garmentsewing , #garmentsewingtutorial , #hongkongfinish , #hongkongseams , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #janomesewing , #learnwithsarah , #linen , @janomeamerica , @janomesewingmachines , edge finishes and bindings , garment sewing , garments , janome , janomeartisan , presser feet , sewing hints , techniques , tools of the trade , tutorials , uncategorized (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 6-Lapped and Flat-Felled Seams from Art and Quilting in Camden

Lapped and flat-felled seams are two sides of the same coin. Both are found in ready to wear–the lapped seams I see most often in men’s dress shirts. Flat-felled seams are found on jeans…they’re that heavy, bulky seam! The double stitching makes it strong, so it is good for seams that endure strain–like tight jeans! They can also be used decoratively with contrasting and/or heavy topstitching thread. Let’s start with the ….

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #artistauthordesignerquilter , #finegarmentfinishes , #flatfelledseam , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomeartisan , #janomem7continental , #lappedseamfoot , #learnwithsarah , free tutorials and patterns , garment sewing , garments , janome , patterns , presser feet , sewing , sewing hints , techniques , tutorials (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 5-French Seams from Art and Quilting in Camden

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would say what I say whether affiliated or not. I’ve also chosen to be affiliated with Janome since 2003 (!!!) because their machines are so good and they are so responsive to the interests and needs of their customers.

To make a French seam you sew the seam twice. My example is on a 5/8″ seam which is standard in the US. Please adjust accordingly for your pattern and practice.

First, sew the seam with the fabric WRONG ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #antheablouse #annaallen , #finesewing , #garmentmaking , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomegirl , #janomem7continental , #janomesewing , #learnwithsarah , #overcastedges , #seamfinishes , garment sewing , garments , janome , janomeartisan , presser feet , sewing hints , techniques , tutorials (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 4- Overcast Seams, just like Serged Seams from Art and Quilting in Camden

Nothing beats a beautifully finished garment, one that is so pretty on the inside that you enjoy it every time you put it on. Though you might be tempted to wear it inside out it’s so pretty, it remains a secret just for you! Top technique for a beautiful inside is using a seam finish to hide the raw edges. Not only does it look nice, it also protects the edges of the fabric, prevents fraying, can improve the way the seam functions, and contributes to a garment that will last longer. After all, you’ve spent money and ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 1 month ago. under #airthread2000d , #cottonfabric , #garmentmaking , #gmqt , #handmade , #janome , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomeartisan , #janomegirl , #janomem7continental , #janomeserger , #janomesewing , #learnwithsarah , #overcaststitch , #sarahannsmith , #seamfinishes , free tutorials and patterns , garment sewing , garments , janome , sewing , sewing hints , techniques , tools of the trade , videos by sarah (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 3–Matching Plaids, cutting out your garment pieces from Art and Quilting in Camden

While visiting a favorite local shop in nearby Rockland, Maine, Clementine, I happened to fondle this amazing thick, soft flannel and thought it would made a perfect winter top. The plaid adds a bit of complexity and opportunity to teach a few more advanced skills along with a fairly simple pattern for this series.

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would say what I say whether affiliated or not. I’ve also chosen to be affiliated with Janome since 2003 (!!!) because their machines are so ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 2 months ago. under #artistauthorquilterteacher , #garmentmaking , #garmentsewingtutorial , #handmade , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomem7continental , #kaishears , #matchingplaids , #patternweights , #sarahannsmith , #tailorschalk , #taylorseville , @janomeamerica , @janomesewingmachines , @sarahannsmithq , favorite products , free tutorials and patterns , garment sewing , garments , janome , janomeamerica , janomeartisan , patterns , sewing hints , techniques , tools of the trade , tutorials (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 2-Make a muslin, fitting and sleeves from Art and Quilting in Camden

At the end of Lesson 1, I was showing you how far off the fitting is in this pattern when applied to my body: broad shoulders, small bust.

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would say what I say whether affiliated or not. I’ve also chosen to be affiliated with Janome since 2003 (!!!) because their machines are so good and they are so responsive to the interests and needs of their customers.

There’s a LOT of detail in this post, but if you ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 2 months ago. under #cottonfabric , #garmentmaking , #gmqt , #janome , #janomeamerica , #janomeamerica @janomesewingmachines , #janomeartisan , #janomegirl , #janomem7continental , #philippanaylor , #sarahannsmith , classes i've taken , free tutorials and patterns , garment sewing , garments , janome , patterns , sewing hints , techniques , tutorials , what not to do (Comments)

Plaid Top Tutorial: Lesson 1-Choosing a pattern and starting tips from Art and Quilting in Camden

I thought it would be fun to teach some basic garment sewing techniques using a simple “T” top in woven fabric as the platform, tossing in a few special lessons along the way. This isn’t a class in how to make a blouse–rather it is a way to teach several techniques that are useful in garment making and home dec across the board. There will be 9 posts total that will publish on Tuesday and Friday through March 21. As they go live, I will update a list at the bottom of each ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 2 months ago. under #100actsofsewing , #dressno2 , #garmentmaking , #janomegirl , #sarahannsmith , #sarahannsmithq , #tutorial , #woventop , garment sewing , garments , janome , janomeamerica , janomeartisan , patterns , reviews , sewing hints , techniques , tutorials , uncategorized (Comments)

A rare and exciting opportunity! from Quilting with Kimberly

Hello, friends!

You may have already read or heard about the tour group I’ll be leading to Japan with Opulent Quilt Journeys this coming May. Our tour had been sold out, but due some very unfortunate health circumstances, we’ve had three spots open up just recently. This is a very rare and thoroughly exciting opportunity for YOU to join us! You can bring your husband / sister / mother / friend / significant other, or if you want to join the group as a single, no problem! You’ll be made to feel more than welcome and we’ll personally take great ...

added by Kimberly 1 year, 3 months ago. under friends , fun , janome , janome national spokesperson , japan , japan 2023 , japan tour 2023 , opulent quilt journeys (Comments)

Looking back, looking forward from Quilting with Kimberly

The waning hours of 2022 are upon us. Less than 24 hours to go until a new year will be ushered in to greet us all.

Sweet Fuzzy Wuzzy, napping on the cool patio during very warm days.

Roo food, apples, and water were always on hand at Chez Einmo.

This year, perhaps more than most, I’m glad to see the end of 2022 and I’m looking forward with great expectation to everything 2023 will bring. Don’t misunderstand; there were some exciting things which happened in 2022. I think of friends we met along the way, the ...

added by Kimberly 1 year, 3 months ago. under alice springs , australia , cabin , cats , family , friends , fun , holiday , home , janome , new year (Comments)

Postcard Quilt and Pattern ~ New! from Curlicue Creations

This is the Postcard quilt, one of my newest patterns. It's featured in the Island Batik catalog. This pattern is available in my Etsy shop. and in select quilt shops across the USA. I used Island Batik's new Silverado Canyon fabric collection to make this quilt. Island Batik provided the fabric for this project.

The Postcard quilt is made using two variations of this block. It is a simple, yet lovely block to sew. This is a good project for newbie sewists, and a fun one for more advanced quilters looking for a quick finish.

The blocks make ...

added by Jennifer Thomas 1 year, 4 months ago. under aurifilthread , doyoueq , eq8 , hobbsinside , islandbatik , islandbatikdesigner , janome , postcardquilt , quiltpattern , schmetzneedles , silveradocanyon

Creative Christmas Stocking with Island Batik from Curlicue Creations

This month's Island Batik Ambassador challenge was to make a Christmas Stocking.

Disclaimer: The products used to make this stocking were given to me by Island Batik and industry partners.

I was inspired to use the Emperor's Treasures strip pack and the dark coordinate, Merlot, that I received in my Island Batik Ambassador second shipment for 2022.

Though the purples and lime green are not very traditional Christmas colors, I love the rich look of them paired with the dark purple Merlot coordinating fabric. The first thing I did was cut 2-1/2" strips of the dark purple ...

added by Jennifer Thomas 1 year, 5 months ago. under aurifilthread , christmasstocking , emperor'streasures , hobbsbatting , islandbatik , islandbatikambassador , janome , schmetzneedles

An EXCLUSIVE Quilting and Textile Art Studios Tour of Japan in 2023! from Quilting with Kimberly

A Personal Invitation

I would like to personally invite you to join me on an
EXCLUSIVE Quilting and Textile Art Studios Tour of Japan in 2023!

Now that borders have opened, all travel restrictions have been dropped, and you can freely travel to and from Japan, who’s ready to plan the most exciting, fun and amazing trip in 2023? I’m absolutely thrilled to announce I will be personally leading a small, intimate group to Japan next year from May 9 – 19, 2023 on the trip of a lifetime! I’ve been working closely with Judy Barry of Opulent ...

added by Kimberly 1 year, 6 months ago. under friends , fun , holiday , janome , janome national spokesperson , janome sewing classroom , janome sewing machines , janome tokyo , janome-america , japan 2023 , opulent quilt journeys , sashiko , textile and art studios tour , travel and teaching (Comments)

Anthea Blouse in Sky Blue Linen from Art and Quilting in Camden

While visiting my favorite local shop, Fiddlehead Artisan Supply, one of the young women working there had on her version of this blouse. Asked the pattern name–Anthea by Anna Allen–went home and ordered it! The colors I’m wearing are Maine Summer and it is so flattering to many body types and comfortable.

Today’s blogpost takes you through making an entire blouse, which presser feet I use on my Janome (I’m a brand ambassador and compensated, but I’d say all this good stuff anyway…they rock!) m7Continental, why and offer tips and tricks for garment ...

added by Sarah Ann Smith 1 year, 6 months ago. under #annaallenpatterns , #antheadblouse , #artistauthorquilterteacher , #artistsauthordesignerquilter , #fabricsstore , #fiddleheadartisansupply , #janomegirl , #sarahannsmith , classes i've taken , edge finishes and bindings , favorite products , garment sewing , garments , janome , janomeamerica , janomeartisan , patterns , techniques , travels , tutorials , videos by sarah (Comments)

New friends from Quilting with Kimberly

Pictured from left to right: Kathi Slee, QLD Sales Educator, Melissa Wilkes, Sales Educator, and Peter Kross.

During our recent trip to Bribane and Surfer’s Paradise in Queensland, we had the wonderful experience to meet some terrific new friends! Kent and I were invited by Peter Kross, Janome QLD State Manager, to visit the Janome headquarters in Brisbane and we were incredibly honored! We spent a few hours with Peter and his amazing team, and they were gracious and so very generous with their time (and some amazing Janome swag, that I plan to gift forward to some Janome-America ...

added by Kimberly 1 year, 7 months ago. under continental m7 , friends , fun , janome , janome m7 , janome national spokesperson , janome shop stop , sashiko , solid-ish , solid-ish by ttfabric (Comments)

Latest finish from Quilting with Kimberly

I felt antsy. Nothing has peaked my interest or seemed really fun to work on lately. Has that ever happened to you? Oh sure…..I have lots of projects-in-progress (in the quilting world, we call those UFO’s — or unfinished objects.) But I was really looking for a challenge.

with Danielle Ross

Before I moved to Australia a few months ago, my friend, Danielle, and I had cut out all the bits and pieces to create a Tumbleweed Toiletry Tote from Blue Calla Patterns with the intention of making it into a hobby or sewing tote. (You can read about ...

added by Kimberly 1 year, 8 months ago. under blue calla patterns , cheeto , continental m7 , janome , janome m7 , janome national spokesperson , janome_cat , tumbleweed toiletry tote (Comments)

What Are Quilters Blogging About Today?

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would ...

Please note: I am affiliated with Janome as a Janome Artisan and am compensated. However, my reviews are honest and I would say what I say whether affiliated or not. I’ve also chosen to be affiliated with Janome since 2003 (!!!) because their machines are so ...

A Personal Invitation