Wednesday 14 October 2015

Interchangeable clear pocket key fob snap tab- KM Designs

 I love snap tabs! I think they make a great pressie for all ages and this is no exception!   


Created and developed by: KM Designs (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $3.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4×4

Skill level: Beginner to advanced. 

Time taken: 20 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away

 

Upon opening the snap tab file there is a .jpg  which helps step you through each part of putting this in the hoop snap tab together. I found the instructions clear and easy to read. My only advise is don't forget to include the clear vinyl for the pocket before step 3. For my snap tab I used glitter vinyl for the main part and a fairly thick clear vinyl for the window. Also included with the purchase of this snap tab is a free hello kitty file with squares that fit into the little pocket. As my little one isn't into hello kitty all we did was cut out the square and she drew a picture on the back (idea alert- fathers day/mothers day pressie!). Another bonus was that I was able to get 10 of the key tags stitched in my one 6x10 hoop (You do need software though). Certainly one I will do for a quick and easy pressie for a whole class or to sell at craft fairs!     


 

Saturday 29 August 2015

Mason Jar snap tab- Beanstitch

My daughter loves stitching out things that she can add her own flair too. These snap tabs were quick and easy and i think they would be lovely for fathers day if you put a little pic or something unique to your child in them.  
 

Created and developed by: Beanstitch (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $2.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4×4 (Finished item (closed tab) measures approximately 1.60" x 3.60" (snapbean) and 1.13" x 2.75" (smallbean))

Instructions: Yes

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 15 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

These snap tabs were so much fun! When you open up the instructions you see each step and the corresponding stitches in pictures to help guide you along the way. The hardest thing i found was knowing when to put the vinyl on. I put it on before stitching the second last step but in hindsight i think i should of put it on before the last stitch (When you put on the backing as well.) I used a fairly thick piece of vinyl and as you can see from my pics i needed it as my child chose the most bulkiest thing she could to put in there. The main part was a thin sparkly vinyl and it was finished off with a snap tab! 



Monday 20 July 2015

MichiGeek Designs- 20 sided die snaptab

OK this is going to come as a shock but when I was young I was very into gaming. No not Nintendo 64 Mario cart or any of those games, I was a serious LAN addicted girl who could put the boys to shame with my battle skills. So when a new digitizer popped up, the designs were definitely on my 'must buy now' radar. They are not only unique but they are very geeky and here is a review of a  snap tab that I just love! 


20 sided die Snaptab

Created and developed by: MichiGeek designs (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $4.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4×4 and up.

Instructions: No

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 20 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

This is a simple snap tab design. For those who haven't ever done a snap-tab before the steps are simple. Stitch out the placement,   Place the top fabric on, stitch out the details and then put the backing on before the final stitches. You then just need to cut it out and apply the KAM snaps.  I love snap tabs because they are quick and easy as well as appealing to  men, woman and even children (Bag tags!!!). MichiGeek die stitched out beautifully. I was worried about the small stitches but i had no problems at all. A tip is I usually find trimming between the numbers tricky but by using a sharp sewing Awl and VERY carefully slipping it under the thread, you can lift it up and trim it easily and quite close to the ends.


MichiGeek certainly has unique but awesome designs, check them out today! (Oh and tell them i sent you :) )  

 

 

Saturday 4 July 2015

In the hoop Doodle it! - A Creative Medley, Sevens Emporium and Dreamcatcher Designs

When i first saw a doodle-it I had no idea what it was for. Here is what I found out-

"Doodle-Its are a softie design you can stitch on cotton fabric and kids are able to color in the lines with washable markers, fabric markers, or crayons. When done throw it in the washer to remove ink and then color again and again. Possibilities are endless. Use permanent markers to create your own one of a kind design that will last forever."

Awesome idea!! I couldn't wait to stitch one out for my little ones. Even better was that three of my favorite in the hoop designers had released them in a collaboration. A Creative Medley, Sevens Emporium and  Dream catcher Designs all have these designs in different characters and themes available on there websites. The most common question asked about doodle it's is- What kind of fabric should I use? Whilst i used calico (I'm from Aus), homespun and drill the designers recommend poly-cotton, cotton quilting fabric/muslin, twill, and cotton knit. All have worked well. So.... I decided to test one doodle it from each designer and here is my reviews: 


Doodle it Pig

Created and developed by: A creative medley (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $5.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4x4 inches, 5x7 inches, 6x10 inches, 7x11 inches, 8x11 inches

Instructions: Yes, written (No pictures but honestly it is soooo easy you do not need them)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 15 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

The doodle its are easy to stitch out and are really quick as well. I used a medium weight calico and a fleece for the back. There is two stitches to this in the hoop design so you can't go wrong. My advice would be iron your fabric first. If you have any wrinkles then it is hard to get them out afterwards. Also i am not sure if it is just this design but there is a third stitch to get you back to the middle. DO NOT RUN THIS STITCH. With a quick and easy stitch out I will definitely be purchasing more as it kept my 5yr old entertained for about 30min (and then later on again after I washed it!) and can see these being a hit at parties. 

My very arty 5yr olds creation on the right!


Doodle it Carousel Horse 

Created and developed by: Sevens Emporium (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $3.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4x4, 5x7, 6x10 and 8x12 sizes

Instructions: Yes, written and a picture of each stitch (generic design)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 20 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

This design, as above was quick and easy. I stitched this onto natural homespun with a fleece background. With the stitching of this design please be aware that it is different from the other two designers just in the order that it stitches out so make sure to always read the instructions before you start.I loved the intricate design of this horse, and the stitch out was once again flawless. I loved that the second stitch of this design shows you the closure line so that when you are hand stitching it closed, you have something to guide you. Another favorite at parties! 

I may have started this one....mindfulness coloring is all the rage at the moment! Very relaxing :)

Doodle it Robot doodle


Created and developed by: Dream catcher designs  (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $5.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4×4, 5×7, 6×10, 7×12 sizes

Instructions: Yes (Written, as well as a fact sheet)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 15 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

One of the biggest problems I have as a business is providing a variety of boy products. So I was VERY excited when i saw this on dream catcher designs. Hopefully you have worked out now that these designs are quick and easy and this one is no exception. This doodle I stitched out on a natural drill and between calico, homespun and drill this was probably my smoothest and easiest to iron and color on fabric wise.A tip with not only this but with all the doodle-its is use matching bobbin thread for a nicer finish. I tried to take a photo to show you the difference:

On the Left is matching bobbin thread and on the right is where I just used my standard white. Definitely worth changing it to match!

I can see this design being given a lot as gifts and the perfect stocking stuffer!  
Best photo i could get of my 5yr old...was too excited coloring and playing with her 'iron' robot ;)


PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO VISIT AND LIKE ALL THREE OF THE PAGES ABOVE ON FACEBOOK (That's where new releases will be shown and coupons announced) AND WHEN YOU LIKE THEIR PAGE LET THEM KNOW NANCY SENT YOU!


Thursday 4 June 2015

Fascinator Bow ITH-Bobbin for applique

I have said it before and I'll say it again, I'm a sucker for a cute bow! This one took my fancy as it was something I felt adults could wear as well...which really helps me as i'm a last.minute.com kind of person who has an outfit but nothing accessory wise! This in the hoop project was simple and resulted in a beautiful unique bow. 

Created and developed by: Bobbin for applique (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $6.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4x4 Requires more than one hooping. ***Cannot make the largest bow with this hoop*** 5x7 Creates 3” finished bow, 6x10 Creates 4” finished bow, 7x12 Creates 5.5” finished bow

Instructions: Yes (written and pictures are easy to follow)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 30 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

Ok....my first mistake! Don't assume because you have made bows before you know what you are doing. Read the instructions first! When i went to put my bow together the first time i just glued it all down but this bow actually has a trick to it that makes it kinda stick outwards when in the hair which is a necessity.

When you open up the instructions there is detailed information on what materials are needed. It also tells you which file does which size. The actual stitch out is quite quick. A mistake I made was putting the felt, doubled over on TOP of the tear away rather than one on the top and one on the bottom. I thought i was clever until it came time to tear away thousands of tiny pieces from the detailed stitches so make sure you follow what the tutorial says. Other than that I was quite impressed with the end bow and would definitely recommend it to anyone who would like a unique looking bow that can be used in both kids and adults.

This is the 5x7 size in my 5yr olds hair


  

Monday 11 May 2015

Build a Sundae felt play food embroidery design- Creative medley

The other day I was looking for a quick present for a 4yr old. I suddenly remembered that she had a felt board on one of her easels and wanted to make something to go with it. With help from miss 5 we decided on this fun and creative felt ice cream set. 

Created and developed by: Creative Medley (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $4.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4x4 Hoop
                       5x7 Hoop

Instructions: Yes (written steps for each component!)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 30 min after fabric cut out( I made a cone and three "flavors")

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away. 

 

 

Upon opening up the instructions each component is divided into its own separate instructions. For $4.99 (US) you get designs for an ice cream scoop, plain topping, topping with sprinkles, cherry, cone and bowl. I wanted to make a cone and three flavors so used different color felt for each one.To get the chocolate look I did use fabric on top of the scoop bonding it with heat and bond lite. Each design is finished with a second layer of felt underneath. A tip that I read on an embroidery forum was to use the stiff felt that they use for handbags. This makes them a bit stiffer and easier for little hands.I loved that you can make many variants and colors and the birthday girl loved it!!   





Sunday 19 April 2015

Christmas Stockings In the Hoop- Five star fonts

With 8 months to Christmas I know everyone will be asking "Why in the world would you bring up Christmas this close to having just got over easter!!". Well a tip that I read in a book about organization suggests that you should always be planning for events...even those 8 months away. If you own your own embroidery business or like to just embroider for family and friends imagine how nice it would be December 1st and you already have your stock/gifts done. Yes...All done!!! Start now. Make a decision every week or month from today, depending on how much needs to be done, you are going to embroider something for Christmas. Which brings me to today's post! Christmas stockings!  

Created and developed by: Five star fonts (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $9.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 4x4 Hoop - 2.99 x 3.89 Finished size - 2.85 x 3.75
                       5x7 Hoop - 4.74 x 6.98 Finished size -4.60 x 6.85
                       6x10 Hoop - 5.65 x 8.66 (fits Hus D1 & center of ART Mega Hoop) Finished size - 5.45 x 8.50
                       6.25 x 10.25 Hoop - 6.19 x 9.49 Finished size - 6.00 x 9.30
                       7x12 Hoop - 6.90 x 10.58 Finished size -6.75 x10.40
                       8x12 Hoop - 7.60 x 11.65 Finished size - 7.45 x 11.50

Instructions: Yes (In color and well written!)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced.

Time taken: 30 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away(Instructions say to use a cutaway but i just didn't tear it from all the little spaces between the stitches and it worked OK)


I love Five star font designs as they are always accompanied with detailed instructions and pictures! This stocking is no different. When you open up the instructions there is information on supplies, advice on what to use and fabric measurements to prepare before embroidering.This design has 4 quilting styles included- Diamond, Stipple, Channel Vertical, Channel Horizontal. I chose the diamond style for my sample piece. Throughout the instructions I liked that it prompted you on when to add in your own personalization so you didn't have to guess. To add a name onto the stocking you do need to have software (I use Embird) and basic knowledge on how to add in a font. If you just want to do plain stockings that's fine too.

Following the steps is very easy and throughout I had no problems or questions. The only thing that I would emphasize is make sure you iron when it says so that your seams lay flat when it is turned inside out. (I thought I wouldn't bother and it was a touch bulky but my second one I did iron and it was perfect) 

Here is my version:


I used these at Christmas time as place settings. I put a fork, spoon and knife in each and a serviette at the back. They were a hit!

Wednesday 15 April 2015

Rapunzel Set Over Sized-The little stitch shop

Created and developed by: The little stitch shop (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $5.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: File includes head, arms & legs.
Dimensions of Head: 3.51" x 3.63"
Dimensions of Arms: 2.39" x 1.50"
Dimensions of Legs: 1.45" x 1.80"

Instructions: They are in individual jpg stitch files-arms head and legs

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 15 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away 

 

This in the hoop design is a fun design which you can use to add flair and individuality to your hair bows. Each body part is in individual folders and is quick to stitch out with the included instruction stitch files. These stitch files show you which colour is coming up next and which stitches it correlates too. If you have ever done felties before this is an easy design and you won't have any trouble. If you are a beginner and this is your first feltie the owner of the little stitch shop is very helpful and can help you with any questions you have.

 

Some of the tips after stitching this design is don't forget to put your backing on the head before the second last stitch, not the last. Also I didn't even think about it but in my pictures below my feet are actually backwards! Whoops. I love this Rapunzel based bow (as did my 5yr old) and will be purchasing lots more in all the different characters and designs!!

In the right picture I did a close up of my bling pascal!


Sunday 12 April 2015

Monogram Coffee Sleeves from Embroidery garden

Created and developed by: Embroidery Garden (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $11.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: Actual design dimensions 3.52" x 10.15" (fits Brother and husqvarna 6x10 hoop)- please message Embroidery garden if you are not sure if it will fit in your hoop.

Instructions: Yes (In color and well written!)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 40 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away 

 

When you open up the pdf instructions included in this design it first goes through the supplies and fabric measurements that you need for this design. Included in the purchase of this sleeve is 2 blank sleeves, one has the trendy applique circle that you can add a different initial to and one that is blank. (Handy if you want to do lots up in advance for craft shows). For this design i used cotton material, a thin cotton batting and 1/4" elastic. 

 

 The steps that follow are really easy to understand and perform. I had no problems with any of the steps and liked that they included little measurements on the pictures so i didn't have to guess how far anything had to be placed. If you notice in my picture, I didn't trim close enough with the circle applique so make sure you don't forget to trim closely and carefully all around before doing the satin stitch.

 

Once you have completed the coffee sleeve you turn it once and give it an iron (Don't skip this step!!!) It will mean that you get a nicer crisper edge when you turn it through again. You do not have to stitch closed the opening where you have turned it as after the second turn it is hidden nicely. You do however just need to sew on a button to finish it off. I put my coffee sleeve on a normal coffee mug that I had at home and it fit perfectly!   

 

Don't forget to check out Embroidery Gardens gift ideas at the bottom of the coffee sleeve purchase page :)

 

mmmmm...hot chocolates here I come!

 

 



I AM NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE COMPANY OR PAID FOR THIS REVIEW









Monday 6 April 2015

DigiStitches-Easy Tea Bag Holder

The next major in the hoop embroidery event of the year is Mothers day so I thought today's review should be on something that would make an awesome gift for this holiday.

Created and developed by: DigiStitches (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $10.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available: 5x7 hoop

Instructions: Yes (In color and beautifully written!) - I like also that it includes a link to a free snap tutorial if you are a beginner and are not sure how to do them.

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 30 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away 

 

Upon opening up the instructions on this design it immediately shows you what you will need and at what measurements to cut your material.For my outside and inside pockets I used cotton and found this the best to use. At this point, to make it easier and quicker latter on, I just used a sticky note (post-it) to label each piece on what it's size was and if it was interior/exterior and pocket 1/pocket 2.

 

Each step of the Easy tea bag holder shows a color photo of what you need to do.  It has lots of tips as you go along and even includes which color number it corresponds with. (Really handy if your child wakes up mid embroidery and you have to go back but cant remember what number you are up too!)

 

Once you have followed each of the steps you turn the design inside out to the correct way and poke out the corners. Give it a good iron. I found until I ironed it it didn't have that nice crisp fold in the middle but being cotton it irons easily.  Lastly you put on your snap clip. Make sure you mark out where your snaps have to go otherwise they will not match up.

This tea bag holder holds 6 tea bags (or sugar sachets!) and a lovely gift either by itself or paired with a matching mug rug and mug!

 
I put a gift card in this gift as well!

 

Wednesday 1 April 2015

ITH Bobby Pin Butterfly Feltie Embroidery Design

Created and developed by: Dream catcher designs (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $4.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4x4 and  5X7  (single and sorted)

Instructions: Yes

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 15 min after fabric cut out(5x7)

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away 

 

Having two girls with thin hair we are often fighting flyaways and an untamely fringe. To help hold the hair better I love using bobby pins but wanted to 'jazz' them up a bit which was why I was excited when dream catcher designs released their in the hoop bobby pin range.

This in the hoop design basically stitches out the pattern in two halves, leaving an opening down the middle to insert a bobby pin. If you have ever sewed felties these are even simpler but if you haven't there is instructions in the file. For this design I used felt and a medium weight tear away. A few tips is: If you are using all one color felt on top and bottom and don't need a placement stitch, to save time and ease of tearing away stabilizer I just double the felt and float them both on top, making sure all the hoop is filled. I them skip step one and go straight to step two. This saves time and also means i don't have to tear stabilizer from the middle part.

Overall this is by far one of the quickest and easiest hair accesories i have done. As they are fairly small I usually stitch out a whole hoop full and then keep them as gifts, favors for birthdays or to add an extra something, instead of a bow when wrapping a present or an order.


Here they are:





Thursday 19 March 2015

Embroidery Machine Hedgehog ITH Pattern

Who doesn't love a soft and cuddly toy! Today's review is on one very cute hedgehog which would be a perfect gift for a new bub or a child (Or actually anyone!- one of my friends claimed the second one pictured below!!).

Created and developed by: Dolls and Daydreams (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $10.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  8x12 hoop - Creates a 10.5 tall softie
                           7x12 hoop- Creates a 9.5" tall softie
                           6x10 Hoop – Creates a 8.5" tall softie
                           5x7 Hoop – Creates a 7" tall softie
                           4x4 Hoop – Creates a 3.5" tall softie

Instructions: Yes (VERY comprehensive with a list of fabrics, fabric sizes and colored pictures)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 40 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away and a water soluble over the top in the fluffier areas.

Dolls and daydreams puts together a very comprehensive tutorial on this cute little hedgehog stuffie. Upon opening the tutorial you find an easy to follow table on all the different sizes and how much material to cut for each element.  For the body I chose fleece for my first one and fur for the second. You can also use minky or anything else stretchy. The limbs I did in fleece and then cotton to see which would look the best but found they both worked perfectly. The tummy on the hedgehog is done in either a diamond stitch or a basic stitch. Don't forget if you are doing the basic stitch to use a heat and bond and not trim too close to the edge otherwise it may fray away at the edges.


The hedgehog is stitched in two hoopings. The first is stitching out the limbs. The second is the body and putting it together by adding the arms and legs one at a time. A tip is when you are stitching on the limbs, slow down your machine and make sure your fingers are well clear of the needle (I speak with experience!!!).Once this is done you need to turn it and stuff it. The turning is a bit of a patience thing. Don't be tempted to use anything too pointy as it will tear the fabric. I use a thick plastic chop stick but you can purchase specific turning implements which will help make the job easier.  

Lastly you will need to do a ladder stitch to close. I love that a tutorial is provided on the dolls and daydream website if you are not sure how to do it. Here are my cute hedgys.

The first one is 6x10 and the second is 4x4..so cute!!




Saturday 14 March 2015

Buggalena- Butterfly BuggaBand

Sunday morning is set aside for me and miss five to do a project together whilst my husband watches miss destruction almost two. I wanted an in the hoop design which she could personalize but easy and quick to stitch out. What could be better than a butterfly buggaband!

A buggaband as described by Katherine, owner of Buggalena is "A headband accessory embroidery design. It is designed so that when you are finished stitching it, it will leave an opening between your layers of fabric which allows you to slip a headband into. They are super easy to make. The two key things are to use the same color thread for the last two steps and add felt to the underside of your hoop for the final step!" 

Created and developed by: Buggalena (BUY HERE)

Cost:  $5.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4x4 & 5x7

Instructions: Yes (Its a generic one for all buggabands but using this and the stitch guide its easy to do)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken: 25 min after fabric cut out (I had a 5yr old helping me though so probably could get it down to 15min)

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away.


The first thing you need to decide before stitching this design out is what size headband you want to use. In my picture below i used a 3/8" purple headband i purchased from my local $2 shop. Included in my butterfly buggaband is a variety of openings to fit various size headbands all in letter categories- A= 3/8" B= 5/8" AND the butterfly design includes a "C" BONUS SIZE for 1" headbands! Once you have decided which size you want to do then it is just a matter of stitching it out like a big feltie.


If you have never done a feltie before the basics are - outline stitch, details stitch (This is where you would open up your PDF stitch file (included)to see what color goes to which detail and in what order), but with a buggaband you have an extra step of doing the tiny bit of outline on the front side (DO NOT PUT YOUR FELT ON THE BACK FOR THIS STEP- as it wont then have a hole to thread the headband in) then lastly you put the felt on and stitch the last step.


The above is all described in the instructions with pictures so you understand more but all in all it is very basic and a lovely quick stitch out. I used sparkly Vinyl from my local spotlight store and then miss five added her own personal touches with various gemstones. This would make a perfect and inexpensive gift and I LOVE the range of buggabands Buggalena has as you can get a design for every occasion or interest.

 
Miss five chose all her own colors and added gemstones for her own personal touch!

Wednesday 11 March 2015

Pickle Pie- Peek-a-boo crayon bag

Having two young children it is important when I go out that my bag is stocked with a few basic 'go-to' items. One item that I always have with me is this peek-a-boo crayon bag and it has saved many-a coffee dates, bank queue tantrums and even grocery shopping by keeping my little ones entertained.

Created and developed by: Pickle Pie designs (Buy Here)

Cost:  $10.99 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  5x7

Instructions: Yes (In color pics and very comprehensive!)

Skill level: Beginner to advanced (The instructions are very well written and if you are a beginner don't be put off by the perceived complexity of this case as the pictures will guide you the whole way.)

Time taken:  40 min after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away.

 

The peek-a-boo crayon case was the first design I did with vinyl. The first one that I made didn't turn out as I bought a plastic table cloth which was really thick with not much give and used that instead of the digitizer recommended 12 gauge or higher. If you go to the local craft store you can usually buy it off a roll and i found that perfect. 

 

The digitizer starts by giving you a list of supplies and measurements. I actually cut these fabric, vinyl and batting measurements out of cardboard first and then traced it onto the fabric. This serves two purposes. The first is you always have a template and if you store it in a zip lock bag together, you will always have it on hand. The next is when it references a certain size of fabric, rather than remeasuring you can just compare it to your template. 

 

You need batting for these cases as well as a POLYESTER zipper and tape to hold the various pieces in place. Every embroiderer will have a different opinion and brand. I use the surgical tape called 'transpore' which i buy at the local pharmacy/chemist. I love this tape as its not too thick and you can rip the pieces off as you need them.

 

Advice that i would give if this was your first time creating this bag is make sure that your needle is new and a 70/10..the sharpness of a new needle will make sure that it sews through the vinyl smoothly. Also turn your machine speed down if you need too. It is also written in the instructions but highlight the words "unzip 2/3 of the way" VERY IMPORTANT. This will ensure your bag will be able to turn correctly.


Once you have finished the case you have the choice of either hand stitching the opening shut or using fusible tape, which leaves a seam free finish.  Here's my completed case!


I put crayons in the front for my kids and then stickers and sheets of paper in the back pocket with no problems at all.

 


 

 

Friday 6 March 2015

In The Hoop Smoosh The White Rabbit Easter Bunny Set FELTIE

Hi my names Nancy and I'm addicted to felties! With Easter coming up I was looking around for a feltie to accompany a cute little outfit. Now I am not a bow maker. In fact I can count on one hand just how many times I've made a bow so I apologize that my bow isn't perfect but what's that saying?

"It's the imperfections that make things unique"-Unknown

Created and developed by: Seven's Emporium (Buy Here)

Cost:  $3.00 (US)

Embroidered on: Husqvarna Topaz 20

Size Available:  4x4 (Finished size of the head is approx 3" x 3", tail is approx 1.25" x 1.35")

Instructions: Yes

Skill level: Beginner to advanced

Time taken:  15 min (4x4) after fabric cut out

Stabilizer used: I used medium weight tear away.

 

Upon opening the PDF instructions you see step by step written directions as well as a color stitch guide all on the one page. I loved having this color stitch guide on the instructions as it meant i could read what i needed to do as well as know what was being stitched out in advance and the stitch count. It also has a separate PDF with the picture of the bunny from the website. I have done many felties before so had no troubles with this design and in fact was able to whip up my bow AND feltie in just under an hour making it great for me as my middle name is lastminute.com!

 

If you are new to felties and have any questions the designer Kellie is fantastic and responds to messages quickly with fantastic advice and help. One thing that i didn't notice before i purchased this design is that it comes with a tail! I loved this idea... you can put it to the side or like me i actually added it to the back before attaching it to my alligator clip giving a really cute back!

See the cute little tail!!!

 

Thursday 5 March 2015

A list of in the hoop websites

I have been messaged a few times asking if I have a list of all the In-the-hoop digitizers I currently follow. Here is my list: I apologize in advance if I have missed anyone. I had to go through all my bookmarked pages and sometimes mistakes are made. Please note that these are just places which have in the hoop among other designs. If you would like this list emailed to you in a word document please message me on Facebook or send me an email. Thanks


  1. www.acreativemedley.com
  2. https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/Oopsidaisi
  3. www.akaapplique.com
  4. www.akdesignsboutique.com
  5. www.appliquejunkie.com
  6. www.appliquemarket.com
  7. www.appliquemomma.com
  8. www.thebeanstitch.com/
  9. www.beestitchin.com
  10. www.bellableuembroidery.com
  11. www.bigdreamswmbroidery.com
  12. www.bobbinforappliques.com
  13. www.Cinch2stitch.com
  14. www.cookiescreations.com
  15. www.creatingawruckasdesigns.com
  16. www.digistitches.com
  17. www.facebook.com/DisorderlyThreads
  18. www.dollsanddaydreams.com
  19. www.dreamcatcherdesigns.net
  20. www.eandmedesigns.com
  21. www.emblibrary.com
  22. www.embroidery-boutique.com
  23. www.embroiderygarden.com
  24. www.embroitique.com
  25. www.essentialappliquedesign.com
  26. https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HugLonger
  27. www.etsy.com/shop/EmbroideryOutlet
  28. www.etsy.com/shop/thelittlestitchshop
  29. https://www.etsy.com/shop/KatieLDesigns
  30. www.etsy.com/au/shop/KatsKreations1205
  31. www.etsy.com/shop/UncleMattsCrib
  32. www.facebook.com/FrenchFrills01
  33. www.fit2bstitched.com
  34. www.fivestarfonts.com
  35. www.ggdesignsembroidery.com
  36. www.goodgreif.com
  37. www.gracefullygeekydesigns.com
  38. www.hatchedinafrica.com
  39. www.happilyafterdesigns.com
  40. www.jazzyzebra.com
  41. www.justpeachyapplique.com/
  42. www.kreativekiwiembroidery.co.nz/
  43. www.krisrhoades.com
  44. www.missybstitchin.com
  45. www.mollymine.com
  46. www.mommamcdesigns.com
  47. www.moosebstitchin.net
  48. www.newfoundapplique.com
  49. www.nobbieneezkids.com
  50. http://www.omasplace.com/
  51. http://ofnahshop.com/
  52. www.picklepiedesigns.com
  53. www.pnw-embroidery.com
  54. www.sanfranciscostitchco.com
  55. www.savvystitchesapplique.com 
  56. www.etsy.com/shop/sevensemporium
  57. www.sewgrammie.com
  58. www.sewingforsarah.webs.com
  59. www.skeldalehouse.com
  60. www.smartneedle.com
  61. www.stitchdelight.com
  62. www.StitchSoup.com
  63. http://www.sweetpeamachineembroiderydesigns.com/ 
  64. www.theappliqueplace.com
  65. www.theitch2stitch.com
  66. www.unlimitedstitching.net
  67. www.urbanthreads.com
  68. www.valleyofembroidery.com
  69. www.zippydesignz.com