String quilting is a quick & easy type of foundation piecing. Strips are stitched to a fabric base, and you can get a little crazy with angles and skinny pieces because the foundation keeps everything nice and pucker-free.
This week’s quilt was inspired by the incredible fabric designs of Kaffe Fassett, so of course it’s all about color and movement. I chose to create half square triangles by sewing my strips diagonally on one half of each foundational block. How cool is that? Click HERE to watch the tutorial
A sewing machine is an remarkably versatile tool – don’t limit yourself to basic, flat projects! My fabric bowl is like a 3-dimensional sculpture, and construction is simple with fabric scraps, cording, and a classic zigzag stitch. It looks great, is super useful, and makes a fantastic gift.
I’m a more sensitive guy than most of you would imagine. I can’t even count how many times I’ve watched a rom-com with my wife. Well, us sensitive guys know that no matter what your significant other might say, Valentine’s Day is not a holiday to be trifled with! In the past I’ve spent hours cruising the local shops, racking my brain, trying to find the perfect gift. But in my experience, something handmade and from the heart always does the trick. Then I realized I’ve already got the perfect idea!
Be prepared this year with a gift that’s super easy, and super rad. Skip the greeting card aisle and sit down at your sewing machine to whip up a few fabric postcards! Even if your loved one is far away, these awesome fabric postcards can be dropped in the mail just like a regular letter.
Watch my Fabric Postcard Tutorial and see how easy it is to make a personalized card that will last for a long time! Start with your favorite fabric, add a few embellishments, and you’ve got a gift that will definitely win you some points this year. For the traditional cards, I used the Dear Heart collection by Studio E.
I use a fun technique here called “fussy cutting.” Basically, it means cutting your fabric in a way that shows off a special part of an illustration or motif. It’s perfect for these postcards!
And check out this awesome “Zombie Love” fabric by Riley Blake Designs. Nothing says “I love you” quite like literally giving your heart to someone special. I think my kids will get a kick out of these!
I hope you give these D.I.Y. Valentines a try and be sure to share yours with me on social media using #mansewing!
Two years ago, Jenny Doan and I teamed up for an epic 3 Dudes Quilt tutorial. More than 335,000 views later, I’m ready for a re-mix! The 3D Dudes Quilt is visually complex, but it comes together easily thanks to strip piecing and Jenny’s signature half-square triangle shortcuts.
Click on the button to watch the video and get the supplies to add some more dimension to your life!
(And, for old times sake, you can click HERE to watch the original 3 Dudes Quilt tutorial with Jenny and me.)
Machine geared up for a free motion quilting extravaganza.
It’s go time, baby!
But…where do you start? How do you take those first few stitches with confidence?
Conquer that blank canvas like a pro with a simple method I call “Building from the Base.” I begin with one basic shape that serves as the starting point for all the detail to come. Click HERE to watch the vid!
When you quilt as often as I do, your ironing board takes a real beating. Of course, I like my sewing space to look neat and well-maintained, so every so often I crank out a new cover.
Click HERE to see how easy it is to give your ironing board a fresh start!
I have to admit, this project did not originate in my own imagination. I actually got the idea from Jenny Doan of Missouri Star Quilt Co.
Piecing isn’t usually my thing; I’m more of an applique guy, but these “disappearing” blocks set my creative juices on fire. This quilt is easy, intricate, and just plain awesome.
Here is a FREE Downloadable PDF: https://www.missouriquiltco.com/land/mansewing/disappearing-pinwheel/assets/disappearingpinwheel.pdf
I’m always on the lookout for gifts that are cool, useful, and easy to make. This Extra Long Cuddle Scarf fits the bill. It’s super soft and long enough to really keep the cold out. Best of all, it’s a cinch to put together. Click HERE to learn how!
(FYI: Cuddle fleece comes in tons of different colors and prints. Click HERE to find the perfect choice for everyone on your Christmas list!)
An art quilt is created out of pure imagination – no pattern required. This week I’m inspired by the image of a lone winter-chilled tree set against a pastel sky. Magical colors, fantastic contrast, and tons of room for improvisation.
Join me for a dose freestyle applique that’ll rock your socks off! Click HERE for a free downloadable PDF of this quilt!
The Krystal Mandala is all about straight lines and angles; it’s even finished with straight-line quilting. This is the perfect quilt to keep your little superheroes cozy as they dream of defeating the bad guys! Click HERE to watch the vid!
