Curtains and Blinds
I've been busy again with made-to-measure curtains, with cushions to match, and am now pleased to be able to add Roman Blinds to my portfolio, following a successful first commission (brave lady!). I am really pleased with the progress of curtains and blinds, as it was one of my objectives, at the start of the year, to develop this area of the business. I know that many of you would like to be able to make your own, but have no idea where to start, so I wrote a little guide called how to measure, telling you what measurements you need if you are going to do them yourself, and what measurements you need to give to a curtain making service, such as Hillarys or John Lewis. Of course, if you commission me to make them, I will come and measure for you so you don't need to worry about measurements, ; ) but here's a guide for you to use if you do want to have a go:
Messenger Bags
I've been busy creating new bags with various forms of decoration, and felt they deserved names by way of identification. Allow me to introduce Harvey, Jessica, Mandy, Simon, and Oswald! Harvey is showing you his insides here, and they all have matching or coordinating linings.
Lessons and workshops
I have also been concentrating on tuition, where I can pass on my 30-odd years of experience (oh heck!!) in sewing and crochet. I teach students from complete beginners to the more experienced who want to hone their skills in specific areas. At the moment, I am offering specific workshops at Newark Craft Hub (sewing and crochet separately) and Crafters Companion (sewing), and I am in discussion with Hanwell Wine Estates about workshops there (crochet). I also offer one-to-one tutorials at home where necessary, and whole day masterclass experience-type sessions for those who want more in-depth knowledge.
Sally's Snippet
This time's snippet is a video tutorial on how to stitch stoppers onto zips to prevent the puller from travelling too far at either end of the zip. Using zip-on-a-roll, I show you how to set up the machine to create a zig-zag stitch 5mm wide at both ends of the zip, ensuring the needle is positioned not to hit the nylon teeth (wouldn't use this technique where metal teeth are involved). This technique is also appropriate for shortening zips or for any circumstance where a stopper needs to be inserted. This could be carried out by hand sewing, but I find it easier, quicker and more secure to use the machine. I hope you find this interesting.
You can find it on my facebook page which is here: www.facebook.com/sallyannsews
Look in the tab called Videos (you might find some other useful things in there too!).
My next blog will cover issues around my new passion (patchwork quilting), crocheted bowls, and gent's ties. Sally's Snippet will be about sealing ribbon. In the meantime, have a great autumnal September!
This is the Woodland Walk crochet along by Attic 24. I always love Lucy's designs, but I'm forever miles behind. Everyone else has probably finished their CAL, but I still have about 20 stripes to go! :) I did make it difficult for myself by choosing to make the double size for our bed though..........sigh!
