26
7/30/2019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/stitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1/26 STITCH SAVVY 25 SKILL-BUILDING PROJECTS TO TAKE YOUR SEWING TECHNIQUE TO THE NEXT LEVEL DEBORAH MOEBES BONUS CD INCLUDES PRINTABLE PDF PATTERNS FOR 13 PROJECTS & MORE!

Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Page 1: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 126

STITCH SAVVY25 SKILL-BUILDING PROJECTS TO TAKE YOUR SEWING TECHNIQUE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

DEBORAH MOEBES

BONUS CD INCLUDES

PRINTABLE PDF PATTERNS

FOR 13 PROJECTS amp MORE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 226

2

Contents

Introduction 4How to Use This Book 6

Sewing Basics Review Quick and Dirty 8Supplies Re view 8

Terminology and Techniques Review 10

Warm-Up Projects 12

Round Sachet With Herbs 12Small Drawstring Tote 12

Zippered Pencil Bag With Ruffles 13

SECTION 1 Home Deacutecor 14Ribboned Envelope Pillow 16

Footstool Slipcover With Piping 22

Tufted Duvet 30Photo-Transfer Wall Art 36

Sashiko Window Treatment 42

SECTION 2 Patchwork and Quilting 48Quilting Basics 50

Paving Stones Quilt 52

Sewing Machine Cover 64Tea Cozy and Friends 76

Whole Cloth Quilt 84

Improvisational Landscape Wall Quilt 90

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3

SEC T ION 3 Bags 98Ev er y day Shoulder Bag 100F abr ic P icnic ( or Any t ime) Bask et 106R ev er sible Quilt ed Sat chel 112C lassy Lady Elbow Bag 118Bead

ed Ev ening C lut ch 124

SEC T ION 4 Sew ing f or C hildr en 130R ev er sible Gir lrsquos Dr ess 132Lov ie Blank et 138T r av el Mat ching Game 144Lay - F lat Back pack 150

Boy rsquos Lined P ea C oat 158

SEC T ION 5 C lot hing 170K nit T op 172 A- Line Sk ir t w it h P eek aboo P leat 180Enchant ment Under t he Sea Dr ess 188Sassy P ant s 196

W her ev er Jack et 206

C onc lusion 216

How t o Use t he C D and P at t er ns 217R esour c es and Inspir at ion 218Index

220 About t he Aut hor 222

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Welcome StitchersIt has been a sincer e pr iv ilege these past f ew y ear s to see the sheer number s of f olks dr aw n to sew ing w ho had nev er sew n bef ore W atching so many lear n to sew or r e-lear n to sew and become completely smitten w ith the cr af t is exciting and motiv ating and inspir ing in a w ay that I couldnrsquot hav e pr edicted As mor e and mor e new stitcher s got some r eal pr o jects under their beltsit became pr etty clear that the r esour ces that w er e out ther e f or someone w anting to sew w er e mainly div ided into tw o camps intr oductor y books like S t i t c h b y S t i t c h th

at w er e designed to help new bies pick up needle and thread and f all in lov e and niche books that focused on much mor e inv olv ed techniques w hich w er e designed f or exper ienced stitcher s w ho knew exactly w hat they w er e looking f or Ther e w asnrsquot a w hole lot in betw eenY et her e y ou ar e Y oursquov e got some sew ing exper ience y ou know y ou lov e w or king w ith f abr ic and thr ead and y our machine and y ou hav e ideas Y ou r ock Y oursquor e still sear ching f or some guidance though f or someone to lend y ou a hand and help y ou find y our f ooting in the midst of the r eams of inf or mation out ther e How do y ou know w hen y oursquor e r eady to mov e on to mor e challenging sew ing How do y ou know w hat kind

of pr o ject to do next W hen do y ou use one f abr ic ov er another and how do y ou take a skill y ou used w ith one pr o ject and make it usef ulsomeplace else I w anted this book to fill in that gap in the sew ing know ledge and giv e y ou a r efer ence that w ould help y ou make the leap f r om Beginner to Rock Star As y ou w or k thr ough the pr o jects y oursquoll find her e keep in mind that each of them w as designed to r elate par ticular skills or techniques Naturally not ev er y technique in the w hole w ide w or ld is cov er ed her e and ther e ar e some that show up mor e than once because I tend to f av or themmdashthat doesnrsquot mean ther e is only one w ay of doing something Far f r om it W hat it means is that I hope y o

u w ill continue y our lov e af f air w ith sew ing that these pr o jects w ill ignite a passion in y ou to pr ess ahead and challenge y our self and that y oursquoll be mov ed to make something that may be y ou didnrsquot ev er think y oursquod make Sew ing has so many amazing discov er ies w ithin itmdashitrsquos my sincer e w ish that this book w ill giv e y ou the tools to step bey ond the basics r ise to a new skill lev el and mar ch f or w ar d until Y OU ar e the one designing the pro jects the r est of us w ant to sew

Letrsquos r ock the house y rsquoall

Itrsquos time to get sew ing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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beauty shot 4-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 2: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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2

Contents

Introduction 4How to Use This Book 6

Sewing Basics Review Quick and Dirty 8Supplies Re view 8

Terminology and Techniques Review 10

Warm-Up Projects 12

Round Sachet With Herbs 12Small Drawstring Tote 12

Zippered Pencil Bag With Ruffles 13

SECTION 1 Home Deacutecor 14Ribboned Envelope Pillow 16

Footstool Slipcover With Piping 22

Tufted Duvet 30Photo-Transfer Wall Art 36

Sashiko Window Treatment 42

SECTION 2 Patchwork and Quilting 48Quilting Basics 50

Paving Stones Quilt 52

Sewing Machine Cover 64Tea Cozy and Friends 76

Whole Cloth Quilt 84

Improvisational Landscape Wall Quilt 90

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3

SEC T ION 3 Bags 98Ev er y day Shoulder Bag 100F abr ic P icnic ( or Any t ime) Bask et 106R ev er sible Quilt ed Sat chel 112C lassy Lady Elbow Bag 118Bead

ed Ev ening C lut ch 124

SEC T ION 4 Sew ing f or C hildr en 130R ev er sible Gir lrsquos Dr ess 132Lov ie Blank et 138T r av el Mat ching Game 144Lay - F lat Back pack 150

Boy rsquos Lined P ea C oat 158

SEC T ION 5 C lot hing 170K nit T op 172 A- Line Sk ir t w it h P eek aboo P leat 180Enchant ment Under t he Sea Dr ess 188Sassy P ant s 196

W her ev er Jack et 206

C onc lusion 216

How t o Use t he C D and P at t er ns 217R esour c es and Inspir at ion 218Index

220 About t he Aut hor 222

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Welcome StitchersIt has been a sincer e pr iv ilege these past f ew y ear s to see the sheer number s of f olks dr aw n to sew ing w ho had nev er sew n bef ore W atching so many lear n to sew or r e-lear n to sew and become completely smitten w ith the cr af t is exciting and motiv ating and inspir ing in a w ay that I couldnrsquot hav e pr edicted As mor e and mor e new stitcher s got some r eal pr o jects under their beltsit became pr etty clear that the r esour ces that w er e out ther e f or someone w anting to sew w er e mainly div ided into tw o camps intr oductor y books like S t i t c h b y S t i t c h th

at w er e designed to help new bies pick up needle and thread and f all in lov e and niche books that focused on much mor e inv olv ed techniques w hich w er e designed f or exper ienced stitcher s w ho knew exactly w hat they w er e looking f or Ther e w asnrsquot a w hole lot in betw eenY et her e y ou ar e Y oursquov e got some sew ing exper ience y ou know y ou lov e w or king w ith f abr ic and thr ead and y our machine and y ou hav e ideas Y ou r ock Y oursquor e still sear ching f or some guidance though f or someone to lend y ou a hand and help y ou find y our f ooting in the midst of the r eams of inf or mation out ther e How do y ou know w hen y oursquor e r eady to mov e on to mor e challenging sew ing How do y ou know w hat kind

of pr o ject to do next W hen do y ou use one f abr ic ov er another and how do y ou take a skill y ou used w ith one pr o ject and make it usef ulsomeplace else I w anted this book to fill in that gap in the sew ing know ledge and giv e y ou a r efer ence that w ould help y ou make the leap f r om Beginner to Rock Star As y ou w or k thr ough the pr o jects y oursquoll find her e keep in mind that each of them w as designed to r elate par ticular skills or techniques Naturally not ev er y technique in the w hole w ide w or ld is cov er ed her e and ther e ar e some that show up mor e than once because I tend to f av or themmdashthat doesnrsquot mean ther e is only one w ay of doing something Far f r om it W hat it means is that I hope y o

u w ill continue y our lov e af f air w ith sew ing that these pr o jects w ill ignite a passion in y ou to pr ess ahead and challenge y our self and that y oursquoll be mov ed to make something that may be y ou didnrsquot ev er think y oursquod make Sew ing has so many amazing discov er ies w ithin itmdashitrsquos my sincer e w ish that this book w ill giv e y ou the tools to step bey ond the basics r ise to a new skill lev el and mar ch f or w ar d until Y OU ar e the one designing the pro jects the r est of us w ant to sew

Letrsquos r ock the house y rsquoall

Itrsquos time to get sew ing

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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beauty shot 4-0

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

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216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 3: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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3

SEC T ION 3 Bags 98Ev er y day Shoulder Bag 100F abr ic P icnic ( or Any t ime) Bask et 106R ev er sible Quilt ed Sat chel 112C lassy Lady Elbow Bag 118Bead

ed Ev ening C lut ch 124

SEC T ION 4 Sew ing f or C hildr en 130R ev er sible Gir lrsquos Dr ess 132Lov ie Blank et 138T r av el Mat ching Game 144Lay - F lat Back pack 150

Boy rsquos Lined P ea C oat 158

SEC T ION 5 C lot hing 170K nit T op 172 A- Line Sk ir t w it h P eek aboo P leat 180Enchant ment Under t he Sea Dr ess 188Sassy P ant s 196

W her ev er Jack et 206

C onc lusion 216

How t o Use t he C D and P at t er ns 217R esour c es and Inspir at ion 218Index

220 About t he Aut hor 222

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Welcome StitchersIt has been a sincer e pr iv ilege these past f ew y ear s to see the sheer number s of f olks dr aw n to sew ing w ho had nev er sew n bef ore W atching so many lear n to sew or r e-lear n to sew and become completely smitten w ith the cr af t is exciting and motiv ating and inspir ing in a w ay that I couldnrsquot hav e pr edicted As mor e and mor e new stitcher s got some r eal pr o jects under their beltsit became pr etty clear that the r esour ces that w er e out ther e f or someone w anting to sew w er e mainly div ided into tw o camps intr oductor y books like S t i t c h b y S t i t c h th

at w er e designed to help new bies pick up needle and thread and f all in lov e and niche books that focused on much mor e inv olv ed techniques w hich w er e designed f or exper ienced stitcher s w ho knew exactly w hat they w er e looking f or Ther e w asnrsquot a w hole lot in betw eenY et her e y ou ar e Y oursquov e got some sew ing exper ience y ou know y ou lov e w or king w ith f abr ic and thr ead and y our machine and y ou hav e ideas Y ou r ock Y oursquor e still sear ching f or some guidance though f or someone to lend y ou a hand and help y ou find y our f ooting in the midst of the r eams of inf or mation out ther e How do y ou know w hen y oursquor e r eady to mov e on to mor e challenging sew ing How do y ou know w hat kind

of pr o ject to do next W hen do y ou use one f abr ic ov er another and how do y ou take a skill y ou used w ith one pr o ject and make it usef ulsomeplace else I w anted this book to fill in that gap in the sew ing know ledge and giv e y ou a r efer ence that w ould help y ou make the leap f r om Beginner to Rock Star As y ou w or k thr ough the pr o jects y oursquoll find her e keep in mind that each of them w as designed to r elate par ticular skills or techniques Naturally not ev er y technique in the w hole w ide w or ld is cov er ed her e and ther e ar e some that show up mor e than once because I tend to f av or themmdashthat doesnrsquot mean ther e is only one w ay of doing something Far f r om it W hat it means is that I hope y o

u w ill continue y our lov e af f air w ith sew ing that these pr o jects w ill ignite a passion in y ou to pr ess ahead and challenge y our self and that y oursquoll be mov ed to make something that may be y ou didnrsquot ev er think y oursquod make Sew ing has so many amazing discov er ies w ithin itmdashitrsquos my sincer e w ish that this book w ill giv e y ou the tools to step bey ond the basics r ise to a new skill lev el and mar ch f or w ar d until Y OU ar e the one designing the pro jects the r est of us w ant to sew

Letrsquos r ock the house y rsquoall

Itrsquos time to get sew ing

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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beauty shot 4-0

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

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216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 4: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Welcome StitchersIt has been a sincer e pr iv ilege these past f ew y ear s to see the sheer number s of f olks dr aw n to sew ing w ho had nev er sew n bef ore W atching so many lear n to sew or r e-lear n to sew and become completely smitten w ith the cr af t is exciting and motiv ating and inspir ing in a w ay that I couldnrsquot hav e pr edicted As mor e and mor e new stitcher s got some r eal pr o jects under their beltsit became pr etty clear that the r esour ces that w er e out ther e f or someone w anting to sew w er e mainly div ided into tw o camps intr oductor y books like S t i t c h b y S t i t c h th

at w er e designed to help new bies pick up needle and thread and f all in lov e and niche books that focused on much mor e inv olv ed techniques w hich w er e designed f or exper ienced stitcher s w ho knew exactly w hat they w er e looking f or Ther e w asnrsquot a w hole lot in betw eenY et her e y ou ar e Y oursquov e got some sew ing exper ience y ou know y ou lov e w or king w ith f abr ic and thr ead and y our machine and y ou hav e ideas Y ou r ock Y oursquor e still sear ching f or some guidance though f or someone to lend y ou a hand and help y ou find y our f ooting in the midst of the r eams of inf or mation out ther e How do y ou know w hen y oursquor e r eady to mov e on to mor e challenging sew ing How do y ou know w hat kind

of pr o ject to do next W hen do y ou use one f abr ic ov er another and how do y ou take a skill y ou used w ith one pr o ject and make it usef ulsomeplace else I w anted this book to fill in that gap in the sew ing know ledge and giv e y ou a r efer ence that w ould help y ou make the leap f r om Beginner to Rock Star As y ou w or k thr ough the pr o jects y oursquoll find her e keep in mind that each of them w as designed to r elate par ticular skills or techniques Naturally not ev er y technique in the w hole w ide w or ld is cov er ed her e and ther e ar e some that show up mor e than once because I tend to f av or themmdashthat doesnrsquot mean ther e is only one w ay of doing something Far f r om it W hat it means is that I hope y o

u w ill continue y our lov e af f air w ith sew ing that these pr o jects w ill ignite a passion in y ou to pr ess ahead and challenge y our self and that y oursquoll be mov ed to make something that may be y ou didnrsquot ev er think y oursquod make Sew ing has so many amazing discov er ies w ithin itmdashitrsquos my sincer e w ish that this book w ill giv e y ou the tools to step bey ond the basics r ise to a new skill lev el and mar ch f or w ar d until Y OU ar e the one designing the pro jects the r est of us w ant to sew

Letrsquos r ock the house y rsquoall

Itrsquos time to get sew ing

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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beauty shot 4-0

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

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216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 5: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Welcome StitchersIt has been a sincer e pr iv ilege these past f ew y ear s to see the sheer number s of f olks dr aw n to sew ing w ho had nev er sew n bef ore W atching so many lear n to sew or r e-lear n to sew and become completely smitten w ith the cr af t is exciting and motiv ating and inspir ing in a w ay that I couldnrsquot hav e pr edicted As mor e and mor e new stitcher s got some r eal pr o jects under their beltsit became pr etty clear that the r esour ces that w er e out ther e f or someone w anting to sew w er e mainly div ided into tw o camps intr oductor y books like S t i t c h b y S t i t c h th

at w er e designed to help new bies pick up needle and thread and f all in lov e and niche books that focused on much mor e inv olv ed techniques w hich w er e designed f or exper ienced stitcher s w ho knew exactly w hat they w er e looking f or Ther e w asnrsquot a w hole lot in betw eenY et her e y ou ar e Y oursquov e got some sew ing exper ience y ou know y ou lov e w or king w ith f abr ic and thr ead and y our machine and y ou hav e ideas Y ou r ock Y oursquor e still sear ching f or some guidance though f or someone to lend y ou a hand and help y ou find y our f ooting in the midst of the r eams of inf or mation out ther e How do y ou know w hen y oursquor e r eady to mov e on to mor e challenging sew ing How do y ou know w hat kind

of pr o ject to do next W hen do y ou use one f abr ic ov er another and how do y ou take a skill y ou used w ith one pr o ject and make it usef ulsomeplace else I w anted this book to fill in that gap in the sew ing know ledge and giv e y ou a r efer ence that w ould help y ou make the leap f r om Beginner to Rock Star As y ou w or k thr ough the pr o jects y oursquoll find her e keep in mind that each of them w as designed to r elate par ticular skills or techniques Naturally not ev er y technique in the w hole w ide w or ld is cov er ed her e and ther e ar e some that show up mor e than once because I tend to f av or themmdashthat doesnrsquot mean ther e is only one w ay of doing something Far f r om it W hat it means is that I hope y o

u w ill continue y our lov e af f air w ith sew ing that these pr o jects w ill ignite a passion in y ou to pr ess ahead and challenge y our self and that y oursquoll be mov ed to make something that may be y ou didnrsquot ev er think y oursquod make Sew ing has so many amazing discov er ies w ithin itmdashitrsquos my sincer e w ish that this book w ill giv e y ou the tools to step bey ond the basics r ise to a new skill lev el and mar ch f or w ar d until Y OU ar e the one designing the pro jects the r est of us w ant to sew

Letrsquos r ock the house y rsquoall

Itrsquos time to get sew ing

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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beauty shot 4-0

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 6: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Warm-Up ProjectsNow that wersquore all on the same page as far as supplies and techniques letrsquos warm up a bit on some mini-projects that will get you back

in gear and ready to party Irsquom going into this book assuming that you have some sewing experience but these projects ought to give

you a solid idea of whether yoursquore ready for the ones that come after Wersquore working on double-checking the straightness of seams theconsistency of seam allowances and your comfort level with the terms Irsquoll be using in the rest of the book I feel good about where you

are now but nobody ever regretted doing a lap before committing to a location so letrsquos tour your machine and flex your fingers

1 Use a glass or bowl to draw a circle Trace this onto newsprint printer paper or card stock Cut two

circles from cotton fabric

2 Place the circles right sides together then stitch around the curved edge using a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance and leaving a 2 (51cm) opening unstitched

3 Clip the curve around the entire seam allowance up to but not through the stitching to ease the

seam allowance and permit you to turn the circle right-side out without any puckering or pulling

4 Turn right-side out and press nice and smooth

5 Fill with herbs like lavender orange peel or rose petals Topstitch around the outer edge catching the

opening shut as you do Place in your dresser drawer with your undies or sweaters Yum

Small Drawstring ToteThis small and super-simple tote doesnrsquot ask you to do anything you havenrsquot done before but it gives you a chance to think about

construction and order of operations Use ribbon cord or a long strip of fabric folded in two for your drawstring

1 Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 10 times 6 (254cm times

152cm) Place right sides together and stitch a 1 frasl 2 (13cm) seam

allowance down one long side pivoting at the corner Continue

across the bottom edge pivot again and stitch up the second long

side Leave the top edge unstitched

2 Clip the corners at the bottom of the bag Pink the edges of theseam allowances

3 Press under the upper edge 1 frasl 4 (64cm) then again another3 frasl 4 (19cm) taking care to keep the seam allowances open Stitch

around the entire upper edge leaving an opening about

1 (25cm) wide unstitched

4 Turn right-side out Thread a drawstring through the opening

and draw up the bag Done

Round Sachet With HerbsThis project can be as simple or as complicated as you likemdashadd ribbon trim ruffles buttons and beads almost anything you like

if you want to jazz it up I like it best in simple beautiful fabrics (I often pull some from my scraps when Irsquom done working with

fabrics I really really love and want to see every day)

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SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

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SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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beauty shot 4-0

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

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beauty shot 2-0

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 7: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 726

SECTION 1HOME DEacuteCOROne of the most popular types of sewingespecially for those new to stitching but also for

those who have been sewing for years and years

is sewing for the home Itrsquos not just for the obvious

reason that all of us have homes and want them

to be beautiful maybe more importantly we all

want our homes to look the way we feel and tomake us want to be there more often The joy

and excitement of welcoming someone into a

room where you have designed and stitched

every drape pillow slipcover and throw is really

unparalleled Yoursquoll never look at a bare roomthe same way again Get ready to be drunk with

power people

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 82616

SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 926

beauty shot 4-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1026

SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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beauty shot 2-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1226

SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 8: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 82616

SUPPLIESfrac12 yd (457 cm) fabric

for body of the pillow

(any weight)

5minus6 yds (46-55 m) of

2 (51cm) ribbon for

decorative trim

Matching thread

16 times 16 (406cm times

406cm) pillow form

There are fe w things mos t folks like more than a nice pillo w Irsquo ve wri t ten be fore abou

t ho w deepl y I dislike

and dis trus t super-duper e xpen

si ve pillo ws especiall y since e ven a t the as tro

nomical prices I see in the

s tores the yrsquore ne ver qui te wha t I wan t This quick and clean pillo w projec t is a grea t al tern

a ti ve to a zippered

pillo w and can be adap ted to nearl y an y size o

r shape pillo w inser t Ins truc tions belo w are for a s tandard

16 times 16 (406cm times 406cm ) pillo w form Should you selec t a di

f feren t pillo w form inser t size adjus t your

measuremen ts accordingl y mdashbu t isnrsquo t i t nice to kno w tha t the skill is nearl y

uni versal

Level 1 | Ribboned Envelope Pillow

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 926

beauty shot 4-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1026

SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1126

beauty shot 2-0

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1226

SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 9: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 926

beauty shot 4-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1026

SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1126

beauty shot 2-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1226

SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 10: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 2

PATCHWORK

AND QUILTINGThere has been a remarkable growth in the

quilting world the past five years and most of it

is fueled by younger quilters with a more modern

streamlined design sense joining the craft The

art of using small cuts of fabric to create large-

scale textile designs has evolved to include

brighter colors more inventive shapes modern

design sense and adventurous combinations

The projects that follow in this section introduce

you to the modern quilting movement throughall the basic skills and give you the chance to

consider piecing fabrics together to create a sum

greater than its parts

49

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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beauty shot 2-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

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104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

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7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

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150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

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168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 11: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1126

beauty shot 2-0

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1226

SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

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180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 12: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1226

SECTION 3

BAGSIrsquom always surprised at how many peoplereally really want to sew handbags And then I

remember how many bags and totes and satchels

and purses I myself possess and suddenly I

understand There is an art to bag-making but

since there are really only so many ways to put a

bag together yoursquoll find that the same principles

and techniques come up over and over again

These shapes are core basics and will serve

you well from formal situations to the everyday

You might find as I did that suddenly all you

need are a few basic bag styles and plenty of

embellishments and yoursquore set for a long while

Two words matching handbag

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

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httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 13: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1326100

Level 1 | Everyday

Shoulder BagI lo ve a small under-the-shoulder bag thatrsquos

just the right size to fit m y wallet and phone

plus a fe w little bitsmdashbut not quite big

enough for all the luggage that four children

can expect me to tote for them all o ver

creation Add a little funk y fabric for lining

and this bag transforms to something trul y

special I strongl y suggest making more

than one especiall y with the extra pop it

would get from adding piping

SUPPLIES

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-weight

fabric for the body of the bag

frac12 yd (046 m) of lighter

weight fabric for the lining

1 yd (091 m) of

piping cording

Bias tape to cover

the cording

frac12 yd (046 m) of mid-

to-heavy-weight fusibleinterfacing

frac12 yd (046 m) of light-

to-sheerweight fusible

interfacing

Matching thread

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 14: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1426

104

5 TRAP STRAPS BETWEEN BAG AND LINING

Slide the lining wrong-side out over the outer bag so the two are

right sides together The tabs are sandwiched in the middle with the

D-ring caught on the tab Pin the edge

6 STITCH EDGE

Stitch a frac12 (13cm) seam around the entire upper edge of the bag

leaving a small opening to turn right-side out and catching the tab

ends securely in the seammdashyou can even consider backstitching

over the tab ends as you sew past them especially if you plan to

carry super heavy items in your bag like spare batteries or vintage jewelry Up to you

7 TURN RIGHT-SIDE OUT AND PRESS

Reach through the opening in the lining and turn the whole thing

right-side out teasing out the fabric until the whole bag spills out

and yoursquore able to stuff the lining back inside Press

8 TOPSTITCH

Topstitch around the upper edge to close the opening you used to

turn and to create a finished feel to the bag Take care as you stitch

past your snap

5

6

7

8

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 15: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1526

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 16: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1626

SECTION 4

SEWING FOR

CHILDRENWhen I was little my mom sewed for me and my

sister Sometimes wersquod get matching outfitsmdashall

three of us It was the 70s you know how it goes

And as ridiculous as it sounded to middle-school-

me now I look back and those matching-outfit

days hold some of my dearest memories Now

that I have children of my own I love making them

things at my machine that build memories and

bring all of us joy And when they come to me to

request something special sewn on my machine

Well it just doesnrsquot get much better than that

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 17: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1726

132

Level 1 | ReversibleGirlrsquos DressI came up with this dress when my daughters

were itty bitties I was so bummed everytime they out-grew something Irsquod made with

hoarded fabricmdashonce they were too big to

wear it I was forced to pack it away and lost

the chance to look at the prints I love so

much Step one Make it reversible so I can

use two fabrics at the same time (and so

we always have a spare outfit near at hand

for random food incidents) Step two Make

it adjustable with tie straps that really tie

so the dress can be raised and lowered at

the underarm as she grows giving her the

chance to wear it as a dress to start as a

tunic later and as a swing top before it gets

retired Irsquom all about making the good stuff

last just a little bit longer

SUPPLIES1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he dr ess 1-13 frasl 4 y d ( 091-16 m) c ot t on f abr ic f or t he lining r ev er se

Mat c hing t hr ead

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 18: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1826

150

Level 4 | Lay-FlatBackpackMy kids have lots and lots (and LOTS) of bags and

buckets and carryalls for toting their treasures around

along with anything else they can find and fit inside

But as each of them has moved through preschool

and on to Big Kid Schoolmdashthe kind with homework

and notes from the teacher giant round pencils with

SUPPLIES

1frac12 y ds ( 137 m) of home dec c ot t on or c ot t on linen midw eight f abr ic

1 y d ( 091 m) of lining f abr ic

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of P elt ex 1 set of bac k pac k har dw ar e

w it h slider sMat c hing t hr ead

frac12 y d ( 046 m) of lining f abr ic made int o 2 ( 5 c m) single-f old bias t ape

nubby erasers stickers and

juice timemdashI have found that

they need a bit more of a

backpack to hold it all This

one gives them little pockets

for the little things but also

unzips all the way flat to

allow total accessmdashand

to discourage small hands

from filling it up super fullWorking with a two-way zip

will change the way you think

about the possibilities of

closures

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 19: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 1926

152

1 STITCH POCKET PIECE

Place the main pocket (in the main fabric) right sides together with

the lining Stitch all four sides leaving an opening Turn right-side out

press edge crisply then topstitch along that upper edge for a crisp

finish

Repeat with the pencil holder

2 CREATE LOOPS IN PENCIL HOLDER

Place the pencil holder on top of pocket (right-side up) Line up the

left edge and stitch through all layers to secure

Create a loop by placing a pencil or your finger under the panel

to space then pin it to secure Continue across the pencil panel

to make as many pencil spots (or mini-pockets ) as yoursquod like Six

pencil spots is probably goodmdashwho needs more than six pens and

pencils Think about making a fat spot for a chubby highlighter too

Adjust the loops until the end of the pencil holder is even with the

edge of the larger pocket

3 STITCH BETWEEN LOOPS

With the pencil loops pinned in place take the pockets to your

machine Stitch the loops down securely by sewing between each

loop from top to bottom (or bottom to top) and backstitching ateach end

Stitch the Pockets and Pencil HolderCreate a main pocket and then create a pencil holder by making another similar pocket that yoursquoll then use to

create pencil loops

1

2

3

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 20: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2026

168

1 STITCH BUTTONHOLES

Using the markings on the pattern pieces set the buttonholes and

stitch them in place Clip open the holes (Check out the Crash

Course on buttonholes on the next page as needed)

2 STITCH ON BUTTONS

Add buttons with a shank

Buttons and ButtonholesThe classic pea coat look includes four or six buttons double-breasted You can use fewer but the lapels flap down

most attractively if you stick with four or six in a two-by-two configuration

1

2

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 21: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2126

SECTION 5

CLOTHINGWhen I first learned to sew I only ever thought of

sewing clothing It was what my mother made and

her mother before her It seemed practical and

familiar and I wanted to make clothes more than

anything in the world I still love sewing apparel

and feel a very specific type of satisfaction when

I try on a garment I have made myself and findthat it fits right and feels good and know with

total certainty that no one else has something

just like it There are usually more steps to sewing

a garment but in the end itrsquos really all sewing a

seammdashnot that different from any of the other

projects in this book If yoursquove been sewing

straight lines for a while but are putting off making

clothes these patterns will take you into a whole

new territory that is as addictive as it is

exhilarating Irsquom a big believer in simple

wardrobe staples the kind with classiclines that let the fabric be the star Feel

free to indulge yourself a little here and

buy some really special fabric for your

garmentsmdashyoursquoll never feel as pretty

as you do walking down the street in a

fabulous piece of clothing you made

yourself Viva la sewing

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 22: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2226

180

Level 2 | A-Line SkirtWith Peekaboo Pleat

Fine I admit it I love me a sexy librarian look

Itrsquos true As a card-carrying nerdophile there

is something about a classic buttoned-down

look that makes me feel both pretty and

prim at the same time This clean skirt with

its a-line shape and peekaboo pleat has it

all wrapped up Making the pleat is simple

adding the pocket gives a touch of color andthe delicious D-ring belted closure means

neither zippers NOR buttons for you Itrsquos like

a skirt paradise Make this one up in heavier

fabrics like twill corduroy wools or denim

The inset for the pleat can be any fabric you

choosemdashmay I suggest something truly

special that yoursquove been saving for just such

an occasion

SUPPLIES

11

frasl 2 yds (137 m) ofbottomweight cotton

linen denim or wool for

the skirt body

frac12 yd (046 m) of

contrast fabric for

the pleat and pocket

Matching thread

1 frasl 4 yd (023 m) of mid-

weight interfacing

1 D-ring or buckle

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 23: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2326

189

CUT PIECES

Begin by cutting all the pattern pieces bodice front (1 on fold)

bodice back (2) skirt front (1 on fold) skirt back (2) pocket (4)bodice front lining (1 on fold) bodice back lining (2)

For the straps cut a length of fabric 11 frasl 2 (38cm) wide by 30

(762cm) long This can be a cross-cut strip of fabric cut from

selvage to selvage

Cut Fabric Pieces

Make Bodice

1 STITCH DARTS

Stitch darts at the waist on the bodice front and bodice back

These allow for graceful shaping and are designed for a B or C cup

Remember always begin sewing a dart at the larger end heading

toward the point And never backtack tie a hand knot (See page

182 for a Crash Course on darts)

Press toward the center Repeat with the lining (As with bags or

other projects anything you do to the outer shell of the dress yoursquoll

need to do the same to the lining so the two will fit together)

2 STITCH BODICE TOGETHER

Place the bodice front right sides together with bodice back Stitch

the side seams using a 5 frasl 8 (16cm) seam allowance Press seam

allowances open Repeat with the lining

1

2

SIZES 2-8

SIZES 10-22

BACK

BACK

FRONT FRONT

STRAP (OPTIONAL)BACK

FRONT

CUT ONE SIDE THEN FLIP PATTERN TO CUT OTHER SIDE

FRONTBACK

BACK

STRAP (OPTIONAL)

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

FOLDFOLD

SELVAGE

SELVAGE

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 24: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2426

215

Try this Too

This jacket works so well in any fabric but I highly recommend the experience ofsewing with the best fabrics you can--yoursquoll love both the process and the product so

much more See if you canrsquot score a really great wool tweed (check the resources

section in the back for ideas of where to begin) and fall in love with this classic fabric

that sews up so beautifully

The binding you use on the interior seams of this

jacket is bias tapemdashwhich I recommend for the

binding of your Sewing Machine Cover (see page

64) Such different applications but the same

skill for each

Working on this jacket is a reminder of how a

shaped or curved seam can really affect the

overall performance of a garmentmdashor any sewn

object Try the same approach by making the TeaCozy next (see page 76) where curved seams

create an entirely unexpected shape for the

project

When you complete a challenging project

sometimes the best next step is to go back to the

basics and take a rest Move to the Ribboned

Envelope Pillow next (see page 16) and remind

yourself how soothing straight seams can be

n e x t

s t e p s

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 25: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2526

216

Conclusion Learning to se w isnrsquot something you do once and never

do again Itrsquos a skill yes but itrsquos also an art and more

When you first touch a se wing machine it seems like a

completely foreign world but I think most of us quickly

learn that itrsquos wa y more than that

There is something transformative about sewing

something that allo ws us to take ourselves out of our

daily li ves forget our worries and escape to something

bigger While the project yoursquore working on might seem

small when you put needle to fabric you are part of

something that began long before you learned to sew and

will continue long after a trajector y of imagination and

creation that ties you to women you ha ve ne ver met but who share something with you Sewing can allo w you to

both dream and realize to imagine and create to leap and

to land It is truly something unique and special and like

opera can ignite a fire in your soul that you didnrsquot kno w

you lacked but that burns bright and illuminates you and

e verything in your path

I realize Irsquom going all hyperbole here but theexcitement and fulfillment I feel when I se w is

unparalleled and something I treasure and hold dear

Once you learn to use your machine and work with various

fabrics there is nothing you canrsquot learn and make You

ha ve the po wer

Rock on Little Stitcher and set forth in this brave new

world to make and become

SEWING

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C

Page 26: Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes: 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

7302019 Stitch Savvy by Deborah Moebes 25 Skill-Building Projects to Take Your Sewing Technique to the Next Level

httpslidepdfcomreaderfullstitch-savvy-by-deborah-moebes-25-skill-building-projects-to-take-your-sewing 2626

5 tracks x 5 projects x Loads of Versatile Techniques

= 25 Awesome Projects to Master Sewing

In STITCH SAVVY there are 5 tracks (home deacutecor handbags ki dsrsquo items

quilting and clothing) and each track has 5 projects that start simple and

build up your skills But wait therersquos more Cross-referenced techniques allow

you to skip around an d explore certain skills (Yo u loved the box pleats in the

Sashiko curtains Check o ut the A-line skirt with the peek-a-boo pleat)

SO CUSTOMIZE YOUR SEWING EDUCATION

bull Work your way through all the Home Deacutecor projectsmdashfrom simple to more advanced

bull Want to ease into sewing Start with the Level 1 projects in each track

bull Love piping Jump from track to track to explore all the ways you can use piping

This book is desig ned s peci1047297call y to allow y ou to g row y our skills pursue pro jects y ou crav e and test the w aters outside y our comf ort zonemdashand make

some seriously cute pro jects as y ou do

System Requirements for CD

Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documentsCD-ROM drive

Free hard-disk space to save files

Bonus CD includes 13 PDFpatterns for apparel accessories and

home decor quilting guides and more

E A N

W7260

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 4

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y M E E M T A u N A I 4 M A E x B k V B

0 4 T i 0 x M w 0 5 N z g x N D Q w M j I 5 N D c z A A = =

781440 2294739

52799

ISBN 10 1-4402-2947-3

ISBN 13 978-1-4402-2947-3

US $2799(CAN $2950)

UK pound1999

F n L 1 0 4 0 1 2 0

0 1 J U Y r V y B Q d W J s a W N h d G l v b n M s I E l u Y y A o

0 2 S W 9 s Y S B k a X Z p c 2 l v b i k P R 3 J l Z 2 9 y e S B L

0 3 c n V l Z 2 V y A F A 8 y Q I C M T M D M T A w A T E F V V B D

0 4 L U E M M D c 0 O T Y y M D E 0 M z A 2 9 A = =

74962 014300 6 U P C