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March 16, 2023
WIP Wednesday #84: Straight line quilting, soft vinyl, zippers and denim from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa is answering presubmitted questions about:

– sewing denim on a computerized JUKI sewing machine

– zipper foot seam allowances

– quilting through different battings and interfacings and

– how to straight line quilt through soft vinyl.

We also now carry Sew Hungry Hippie’s Soft Vinyl! We sell this buttery soft fabric in 10+ color ways and have sold out several times already. So, if you see something you like, order it while you can here: https://craftygemini.com/product-category/fabric/

This soft vinyl is heavier than quilting cotton but softer and lighter than cork fabric. It’s ...

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January 19, 2023
WIP Wednesday #78: What sewing thread to use? How to keep fabric from fraying? from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding what sewing thread to use for bags, what is a good all purpose sewing thread to have on hand, how to tension top and bobbin threads, and how to keep fabric edges from fraying.

Whether you’re sewing your first project or a seasoned veteran of the craft, having the right information about thread and fabrics is essential. Knowing the difference between types of thread, when to use what type of thread, and how to treat different fabrics can make all the difference ...

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January 12, 2023
WIP Wednesday #77: Plastic snaps, uneven fabric & seam allowance tips! from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding plastic snap installation and removal, uneven fabrics when sewing and seam allowance tips. Join us and maybe you’ll pick up a few tips that will help you, too!

Vanessa is answering pre-submitted questions. If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Questions answered:

2:15 – How to install a snap

13:38 – How to remove an incorrectly installed snap

20:05 – Tips ...

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January 5, 2023
WIP Wednesday #76: Fabric prep, needles & quilting tips from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding fabric prep, sewing machine needles, quilt batting and quilt binding. Join us and maybe you’ll pick up a few tips that will help you, too!

Vanessa is answering pre-submitted questions. If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Questions answered:

3:37 – Why do we always have to wash and dry fabric before we start a project?

16:00 – How do you ...

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November 4, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #71: We’re back & your questions answered! from Crafty Gemini

Welcome back to WIP Wednesday! In this episode Vanessa is answering your questions!

If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Please note the new time: Wednesdays at 7:00pm ET/6:00pm CT

This week we’re talking about sewing straight seams, avoiding distorted bias cut fabric edges and a fun table runner project featuring my 10″ slicer ruler.

Products and projects mentioned & used:

• Order your 10″ Slicer ruler here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Peak Block tutorial: https ...

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May 12, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #67: Bag Maker Subscription Box- Round 2 is now open! from Crafty Gemini

In today’s episode Vanessa will talk about her Bag Maker Subscription Box program! We will review the last 3 bag projects made and answer questions about the next round.

** Join the next round of the program here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bag-maker-subscription-box-june-to-aug-2022/

Past projects are available individually:
** Insulated Lunchbox Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/insulated-lunchbox-video-course/
** Sew Together Bag Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/sew-together-bag-by-sew-demented-video-course/
** Zippy Bags Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/zippy-bags-by-sallie-tomato-video-course/

Products and projects mentioned & used:

• Join the next round of the program here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bag-maker-subscription-box-june-to-aug-2022/

• Insulated Lunchbox Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/insulated-lunchbox-video-course/

• Accompanying ...

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April 28, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #66: Fusible Powder vs Spray Basting- What’s better? from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will share her experience with using both fusible basting spray and a fusible powder. After several of you suggested the fusible powder in last week’s episode (WIP WEDNESDAY #65) we decided to give it a try and I’m back to share my results and do a demo for you!

** Order your Free Fuse Fusible Powder here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/quilters-select-free-fuse-fusible-powder-2oz/

** Sulky 4.23-Ounce Temporary Spray Adhesive (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/2QqRmOk

** Subscribe to the newsletter for updates on future WIP Wednesdays, classes and clubs: https://craftygemini.com/newsletter/

Products and projects ...

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April 7, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #64: Samosa Quilt Block Demo with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will teach you how to make the Samosa Quilt Block using her 10″ Slicer ruler. All you need are 10″ squares of fabric and the ruler and you are good to go! Whip up a quilt in no time.

• Get your 10″ Slicer ruler here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Samosa Quilt Along Videos here: https://craftygemini.com/2019/02/samosa-quilt-along-video-1.html

• Subscribe to the newsletter for updates: https://craftygemini.com/newsletter/

Products and projects used:

• 10″ Slicer Quilting Ruler & Template: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Samosa Quilt Along: https://craftygemini.com/2019/02/samosa-quilt-along-video-1 ...

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March 30, 2022
WIP Wednesday #63: Faux Leather Zipper Pouch with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will teach you how to make a cute little pinched zipper pouch. I call it a pinched zipper pouch because a little pinch in the fabric is all it takes to make a flat bottom. So easy!

This project is great to give as a gift and once you make a few you can make them in just a few minutes.

If you need some faux leather sheets and zippers be sure to grab a kit from the Crafty Gemini Shop here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/3-pack-for-pinched-zipper-pouch/

Read the blog post for this project: https ...

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March 10, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #61: Tips for adding a false bottom to a bag with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will share tips for making a false bottom (a.k.a- a hard bottom) for your bag projects.

The February 2022 project in the Crafty Gemini Bag Maker Subscription Box was an insulated lunch box that came with a piece of template plastic for use as a false bottom. A false bottom helps give bag projects more structure and a more rigid bottom so the fabric layers don’t buckle with added weight inside the bag.

Tune in to learn what types of materials you could use to create your own false bottoms as ...

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February 24, 2022
WIP Wednesday #59: Crafty Gemini’s Iron & Pressing Tips from Crafty Gemini

In this episode Vanessa chats about her top ironing/pressing tips! Let’s discuss small travel irons and larger ones and what their pros and cons are. How to get crisp folds and creases in your projects. Pressing cotton and synthetic fabrics and more!

Products and projects used:

• Steamfast Small Travel Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/36AfI0R

• Sunbeam Small Travel Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3BOeFWK

• T-Fal 1800 Watt Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3pchADw

• Tailor’s Clapper: https://craftygemini.com/shop/small-tailors-clapper/

• JUKI HZL- LB5020 Sewing Machine: https://craftygemini.com/shop/juki-hzl-lb5020-sewing-machine/

• Martelli Round About 3-Piece ...

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January 27, 2022
WIP Wednesday #56: Easy little wallet from Crafty Gemini

Make this fun and easy little wallet with me! It only takes a few minutes and two seams! I think you’re gonna love it!

Need supplies? Check out the faux leather sheet bundles we’ve put together for you in our shop:

I’m also announcing my new Crafty Gemini Bag Maker Subscription Box! Signups are only open until the end of the month. If you want to learn more click here.

Products and projects used:

• 4-Pack of Faux Leather for Kendall Snap Pouch: https://craftygemini ...

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January 12, 2022
WIP Wednesday #55: Let’s make a bigger drawstring pouch! from Crafty Gemini

I know you love my little bag & pouch projects so I’m back with a larger variation on one of my smaller pouches! In this episode of WIP Wednesday we’re making a larger drawstring pouch.

The original tutorial on making the small pouch can be found here: https://youtu.be/UnKKyzFzxDU

If you make a lot of projects that have drawstrings or elastic I have an easy to use tool for you, too! Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts and how you plan to use your drawstring pouch.

Products and projects mentioned:

• Fashion Fuse Interfacing ...

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December 8, 2021
WIP Wednesday #54: Light Fusible Batting? Why and when to use it from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday watch Vanessa go over different projects you can make with fabric strips or scraps and Bosal Light Fusible Batting.

Need some Christmas decor ideas? So many quick projects can be made using Bosal Fusible Batting. It saves so much time because you don’t have to quilt it to attach it to your fabric. HUGE time saver! It’s light enough for adding body to a project without being stiff or causing your sewing machine any issues.

Products and projects mentioned:

• Get the Light Fusible Batting: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bosal-one-sided-light-fusible-batting-45-x-36-white-2/

• Get the FREE ...

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December 2, 2021
WIP Wednesday #53: Sewing No-Show Socks with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In this video I show you how to make my No-Show Slip Socks.

This is a one size fits most pattern. We like to use a cotton/spandex blend of fabric that has at least 100% stretch in both directions. These socks fit a child size 2 to a women’s size 11. The size will mostly depend on the fabric used and the amount of stretch the fabric has.

Overall it’s a very versatile pattern and with the amount of fun prints you can get in cotton spandex this is sure to be a go-to on your gift ...

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November 17, 2021
WIP Wednesday #52: Sew a fabric basket with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

Today, I’m sharing some tips for using Bosal In-R-Form to make a cute little fabric basket! This is a great scrap busting project that also makes a great organizing gift this holiday season. Follow this demo-tutorial and use this basket for jewelry, sewing notions, car keys, etc.

Be sure to sign up for the newsletter to stay in the know of all new things going on at Crafty Gemini!

Products and projects mentioned:

• Order your Bosal In-R-Form 18″ x 58″ here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bosalinrformsewin/

• Order your Bosal In-R-Form 36″ x 58″ here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/in-r-form-sew-in-36-x-58-white ...

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October 20, 2021
WIP Wednesday #49: Bag Making Tips with Crafty Gemini (and a Bag Club sneak peek!) from Crafty Gemini

Today, I’m sharing some bag making tips and pointers – things to keep in mind when you’re making pouches and bag projects.

Of course there are so many different interfacings and stabilizers, so we’re going to focus on two different products and some things to keep in mind.

Be sure to sign up for the newsletter to get more sneak peeks and be the first the know when the new bag club opens here: https://craftygemini.com/newsletter/

Products and projects mentioned:

• Order Wash Away Foundation Roll here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/wash-away-foundation-roll/

• WIP Wednesday #47: Zippered Pouch ...

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October 14, 2021
WIP Wednesday #48: How to make textured fabric with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa of Crafty Gemini will share her tips for making textured fabric using Bosal Stitch & Steam.

If you order a package of Stitch & Steam from our shop here you will also receive a PDF pattern for my Texturized Placemat pattern!

Join us and learn the DOs and DON’Ts of working with Stitch & Steam.

Order the materials & tools mentioned:

• Order Stitch & Steam here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/stitchandsteam/

• How to Make a Textured Zipper Pouch: https://youtu.be/BV5gOztaq1g

Other products and projects mentioned:

Tools & Notions in the Crafty Gemini Shop: https://craftygemini.com/product-category ...

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September 30, 2021
WIP Wednesday #47: Use up your fabric scraps with this! from Crafty Gemini

Today, I’m showing you how to use the latest addition to the Crafty Gemini product line! This Wash Away Foundation Roll is the perfect way to use up all those little fabric scraps to make your own fabric! It is water soluble so after you stitch up your project simply soak in water or give it a wash and it will dissolve away. Think of all the fun ways you can use your roll of fabric scraps: make scrappy zip pouches, oven mitts, placemats, table runners, etc. Thanks for watching!

Order the materials & tools mentioned:

•• ORDER Wash Away Foundation ...

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September 24, 2021
WIP Wednesday #46: Sew a tiny faux leather zip pouch! from Crafty Gemini

In this week’s Work-In-Progress Wednesday, I’m showing you how to make my “easiest tiny zipper pouch” out of faux leather. Like, fit in the palm of your hand tiny! I love making these to store all my knitting and crochet stitch markers, tapestry needles and other small notions. They work great for sewing notions, too! Store your thimble, a few needles, a small spool of thread and you’re good to go!

All you need is some faux leather and a craft zipper. That’s it! It’s a super quick and easy make you’ll want to ...

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