Sewing For The Holidays - Personalized Gifts & A Giveaway!

Hi Everyone! This week we have two fun things to talk about - Personalizing your project and a fun giveaway to enter! Sounds fun, right?

To kick things off, let's do the giveaway! (giveaway ended on 12/2019)

This past summer I had the opportunity to visit London. It was an amazing trip filled with site seeing, shopping and spreading the word about Sew Powerful at the Birmingham Quilt Festival! While I was there I visited the Liberty London flagship store! It was breathtaking, to say the least!

    While I was there, I visited Liberty Fabrics up on the top floor! Wow! So many amazing fabrics! It was hard to pick just a few to bring back home with me!

    This week, I'm going to share my splurge purchase with one of you! The giveaway for this week is for two 1/3 yard cuts of Liberty cotton lawn, and one adorable London theme print. 

    How To Enter:

    Comment below by answering this question - "What course topics or specific techniques would you like to see us present in 2020?"

    The giveaway will close on Monday, November 18th. I'll announce the winner on Tuesday, November 19th and kick off the next giveaway! The winner will be chosen at random from the comments posted under this blog post. One entry per person.

    Good luck!

     

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    Ok, now onto the topic for part 2 - Personalizing your project!

    There are several ways to really make your item special! Now it's time to refer to your project planner worksheet and look for ways to integrate the information you've collected.

    I'm going to share a few ideas below, gathered from some online inspiration. Then I'm going to pull some instructional content from our video library for the specific techniques to add those elements to your projects.

    1. Create a look to match their favorite character, from a book, movie, fairytale, or even a drawing! 

    The examples posted below are from the Janie and Jack website. They just launched a campaign of fashions inspired by iconic women featured in a new children's book!  

    In this concept, they're selling the matching children's clothing. For our purposes, I'm using this example to illustrate matching a character for the doll clothes item. The key elements are color, special attention to design elements (like the ruffle bell sleeve on the black dress), and of course the props and accessories. We'll go into the accessories in greater detail next week - stay tuned for that!

    The pattern selection for many of these types of ideas is usually pretty basic. The personalization comes from fabric choices and colors!

     

    2. Add embellishments that highlight their love of a specific animal!

    In these examples, you can see how simple applique shapes and stitching add to the charm of these basic designs.

    Does she love kitties? ThesePJss would be perfect! Animal print knit and a few fabric shapes, create a cute kitty-themed set!

    Maybe it's a polar bear or any other cuddly furry animal... In this example, a half-circle sewn on top of the bottom of the shirt with a few added details (eyes ears, and nose) and you have a darling personalized top! Take it one step further and use a fuzzy fleece for the face and glittery fabrics for the nose!

    3. How about a favorite color?

    In the example below, you can see how they took a classic item, the denim jacket, and created a super girly style! Adding pink sleeves and hood are an easy way to create something special for someone who loves pink. What about rainbows (or hearts, stars, and flowers)? The painted element on the back of the jacket is a super cute "surprise" design element! You can achieve this look with fabric paint, hand made applique or a prepurchased iron on.

    4. Add a saying or quote that is special to the recipient!

    The "Let it Snow" Piccadilly PJs show this example with the use of a design we created on an electronic cutting machine. Once it's designed int he software, it is cut from a purchased roll of heat transfer vinyl. This is super easy to do once you have a machine and learn to use it. 

    You can also do this with premade purchased designs, but they might be harder to find in the proper scale.

     

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       Week Two Task:
      • Read through the post and think of a way to add some personalization to your project! Share your progress with us in the facebook group - I'd love to see how things are progressing!
      • Jump over the SWC Facebook Group here.

       


      100 Comments

      Rita C.
      Rita C.

      November 18, 2019

      I would like to see two course topics addressed for 2020:
      1. Pockets – inseam, patch, slash, welt, trimmed, embellishing
      2. Hats – all types, insider tips

      Rita
      Rita

      November 18, 2019

      Thanks, so much, for these classes. I have learned so much. I am interested in classes in using a serger for doll clothes. Also, accessories, pattern adjustments for a better fit, matching stripes and plaids, fabric/trim combinations, and different shoes and boots. Oh…and I LOVE your pattern hacks!

      Gwen
      Gwen

      November 17, 2019

      Hello, a course in learning how to sew or create various hats and or headwear would be nice. It would be nice to learn how to show techniques not only with sewing, but also with knitting and or crochet.

      Michele
      Michele

      November 17, 2019

      Well, I can always use tips on just about anything! Yes, serger tips would be great, as others have said. I would also love to be able to alter patterns to fit different 18" dolls, since there is even great variation in just the AG dolls, let alone other brands. Thanks for the giveaway! What a wonderful trip you must have had!!

      Deidre
      Deidre

      November 17, 2019

      First of all, thank you for all the amazing classes. I’ve learned some things and been reminded of things I’ve forgotten as well. Your cheerful, upbeat attitude is always a pleasure to see. As several others have mentioned I would love to see a serger class, or a historical costume tutorial. Even if we already have a pattern and technically can sew it, the additional tips you throw in about special detailing or where to find notions and fabrics are always helpful. I would also love to see a digitizing your doll patterns class. Your directions are always simple and straightforward, so if you taught it, I might actually understand what to do.

      Tracy
      Tracy

      November 17, 2019

      So many great comments already – My thoughts are basically reinforcing fellow learners ideas: hats, working with foam for armor, hats, and more; basics of sergers along with alternatives with a regular machine; alteration of patterns to fit the different types of 18 inch dolls; how to select fabrics that will hang correctly on dolls (I have a lot of trouble with this) – it could be done along with a sew along for a specific pattern; working with vinyl and leather to make shoes, purses, and other accessories; and I am sure there are many others above and I would support any and all other suggestions. Thank you!

      Sharon
      Sharon

      November 16, 2019

      Thank you for all the great SWC classes. I have learned a ton of information do much that I have started a binder to make notes from the lessons. Doing this for quick reference has helped instead of going back over videos unless I need to. I would like a lesson on making belts, jewelry and how to adapt a lining instead of facings in a doll scale .

      MAUREEN
      MAUREEN

      November 16, 2019

      Sewing with a serger. Pressing tips. Hats and Boots.

      Donna
      Donna

      November 16, 2019

      I would love some instruction on leather, and also what kinds of material to use for shoes. Accessories like others suggested would be great. I know you have said you don’t have a serger, but if someone could teach it who has it, beginner use of serger would be awesome. Also maybe on doll sized fun things and where you find all the darling little items you use in your photos!! Thanks for all you do, and to your husband and family too! I’m grateful for this site and happy to be a part of the family. Happy Thanksgiving! We are blessed!

      Linda
      Linda

      November 16, 2019

      You have covered so many wonderful classes all ready. I would like to see tips on using different feet to add more detail For example pintucks, couching etc. Embelishing outfits with ribbon, buttons etc/

      Michele
      Michele

      November 15, 2019

      I would also like a tutorial on how to resize doll patterns.

      Pat
      Pat

      November 15, 2019

      I would like some pointers on how to photograph my outfits. My photos always make my hard work look cheap and unprofessional. (I swear they’re not!)

      Cindy R
      Cindy R

      November 15, 2019

      Thank you for sharing from your new fabric! I have a hard time finding small print fabric-it would be exciting to get some from London!!
      As for suggestions on what topics I’d like covered… many have already been mentioned!
      I would like to see pattern sizing adjustments, from one doll size to another. I have many BJD’s of different sizes.. I would love to know an easier way to adjust a pattern to fit them. There are so many beautiful designs!!!
      I would love to see more specific tutorials, like historical clothing, or coats etc. I really loved tackling that gorgeous denim jacket tutorial. I would have been too daunted otherwise!
      Fabric and trim selection. I am terrible at matching fabrics to make a modern or classy outfit. I took Design academy, but I’m still struggling!
      Accessories!! Accessories!! Accessories! ;D Hats, purses, shoes, boots, jewelry etc.
      Thanks so much Cinnamon for all the great tutorials, and inspiration! I’ve been learning from you for the past 2 years… its been fantastic!! I know whatever you show us in 2020 will be fantastic!

      Amanda
      Amanda

      November 15, 2019

      What course topics or specific techniques would you like to see us present in 2020?

      I always struggle with the placement of a peter pan collar for 18" dolls. I think it would be great to have tutorial on how to do this effectively without a giant gap or overlap in the collar placement. Also, blazers with the self fold collars give me trouble no matter the size. I just find them confusing. Maybe a topic on collars?

      Maureen W.
      Maureen W.

      November 15, 2019

      All of these comments, give me something to really think about! I would have to agree with someone elses comments on how to re-size a doll pattern from either an 18" (all different sizes) to a 16" (Ellowyne) and to a 14"-15", say for instance I have an 18" denim jacket pattern, and would love to use it to fit Ellowyne, and I have difficulty with the different angles/yokes. A tutorial is a great way to learn. I am NOT an experienced sewer, but I am persistant!!
      Thankyou for the great opportunity to win gifts; giveaways; commenting etc.,. This is a caring and loving site/group family! I really enjoy the FBook group pages also.

      Frances Rautenbach
      Frances Rautenbach

      November 15, 2019

      I would love to see you present classes on pattern fitting and alterations to fit different sized 18 inch dolls (such as the slimmer all-vinyl dolls like Carpatina, and the Maplelea dolls – but the principles and basis of alterations to fit any doll – not only arm and leg length, but different armscye and torso measurements). To win this prize would be so special for me! I loved roaming about in Liberty’s in the early 1970s when I lived and worked in London, making my own clothes, and yes – using Liberty cotton lawn prints!

      Heidi Brown
      Heidi Brown

      November 15, 2019

      I would enjoy a class on making hats.

      Diane R
      Diane R

      November 15, 2019

      I would like to have a class on using craft foam to make Hats or Helmets from Koski Kreations and Knights Armor from Read Creations. Also a class on making the fun animal backpacks from Miche Designs. I don’t have a serger, but I could just skip that month. Maybe a class on making the military hats or making accessories for completing outfits like purses and/or suitcases. Maybe one on boots. I do not want to win the fabric, but would like to know where to get the small print plaid from. I really enjoy your classes and have everyone. Thank you.

      Rebecca
      Rebecca

      November 14, 2019

      I would love to learn to how make hats. Also some serger skills would be great.
      The fabric is darling!

      Ann
      Ann

      November 14, 2019

      I would be interested in classes on pattern fitting and alterations to fit slightly different sized 18 inch dolls, machine embroidery, and sewing with a serger.

      Elizabeth Smith
      Elizabeth Smith

      November 14, 2019

      I feel stupid for asking but I really need help learning to use my serger…especially with these small doll clothes. Thanks!

      MARY
      MARY

      November 14, 2019

      I would like to see a month of machine embroidery and a month of serging. For the machine embroidery I would like to see some size guidelines and also placement ideas. Thank you for your willingness to share always/

      MILICA
      MILICA

      November 14, 2019

      wow, you got a lot of comments, and I hope I’m not late for the give away :) would love to get London themed print. My suggestion for one of the monthly units would be making accessories such as jewelry, and furniture, and furnishings for a house.

      Ruth
      Ruth

      November 14, 2019

      All/any of the following would be much appreciated:
      Choosing fabrics that drape well in the scale that we are working with so that they look realistic miniatures and tips to encourage fabrics to hang as we want them to, + weight or steam perhaps?
      A UK Resources List, shops and/or online. I have ordered from the states occassionally in desparation but not only is the packing very expensive but when it arrives in the UK sometimes you can get stung MEGA bucks as a customs charge.
      Please can you pass on some of your wonderful photography knowledge. I really enjoy looking at the scenes you set up and the beautiful inspirational photographs of outfits, my attempts never seem to do anything justice, it would be great to learn how to do things properly. Also the colour accuracy of my camera is questionable, is there anyway to compensate for this?

      Ruth
      Ruth

      November 14, 2019

      All/any of the following would be much appreciated:
      Choosing fabrics that drape well in the scale that we are working with so that they look realistic miniatures and tips to encourage fabrics to hang as we want them to, + weight or steam perhaps?
      A UK Resources List, shops and/or online. I have ordered from the states occassionally in desparation but not only is the packing very expensive but when it arrives in the UK sometimes you can get stung MEGA bucks as a customs charge.
      Please can you pass on some of your wonderful photography knowledge. I really enjoy looking at the scenes you set up and the beautiful inspirational photographs of outfits, my attempts never seem to do anything justice, it would be great to learn how to do things properly. Also the colour accuracy of my camera is questionable, is there anyway to compensate for this?

      MARIA
      MARIA

      November 14, 2019

      I have learned a LOT with the pattern academy and design academy classes, but still need some help in the details of sewing like how to put the opening of a sleeve (plackets), how to do a nice waistband, work with linings, all those sewing details to make it look awesome. . I’m also really picky when using fabrics with patterns, for I don’t like when they are not matching one beside the other part. Tips and secrets would also be a great idea. Of course having a serger class would be great, but don’t know if we all have one to be able to get the most of it.
      Thanks for everything!!!

      Ronda
      Ronda

      November 14, 2019

      I would like to have a sew along for the piccadilly peacoat for both the 18 inch and 14.5 inch dolls. Also I am interested in serging techniques. Another interest of mine would be a class on choosing the best patterns for selling and tips on having a small business selling doll clothes. Such as how to use instagram to promote sales, how to maximize the search engine and how to make the listings noticeable. For craft shows information on display fixtures and where to get them would also be helpful, especially how to display shoes. Thank you for this Sewing with Cinnamon class, I have learned a lot and look forward to it each week.

      Kari
      Kari

      November 13, 2019

      I agree with the comment above requesting pattern fitting to accommodate different 18 inch doll sizes. I’ve saved my vintage Kirsten doll for my daughter and her body is quite different from the current generation of American Girl dolls.

      Fran Renton
      Fran Renton

      November 13, 2019

      How to use sergers for doll clothes. Also designs for hand embroidery.

      Ruth
      Ruth

      November 13, 2019

      I have enjoyed these classes since the beginning. I would love to see a class on how to use a serger for sewing doll clothes.

      Dianne
      Dianne

      November 13, 2019

      How great that you would share your fabric with us, Cinnamon. Thank you! I’d love to have a course on hat making and maybe one on serging tips and tricks.

      Lori
      Lori

      November 13, 2019

      I haven’t been taking the classes that long but I would love to have a class on how fabric choices (this may have been covered before) and where to find the fabrics to purchase. The patterns will usually indicate what fabrics work, but I’m not sure of the what the actual fabrics are like.

      Barbara
      Barbara

      November 13, 2019

      I would like a class in how to match plaids and stripes in fabrics. I am also interested in the following: 1) How to make historic hats, 2) Making doll jewelry 3) Making doll furniture 4) How to attach different trims.Could you offer a meetup in Washington state where we could make friends and share ideas?
      Thanks for all you do.
      Barbara Toop

      BL
      BL

      November 13, 2019

      Even tho we are experienced in sewing, it is nice to be able to make something great for a doll that is not terribly involved or difficult. Quick and easy sometimes has value. Precise suggestions for trims or extras is helpful.

      Sue
      Sue

      November 13, 2019

      I would like a class on being able to combine pieces from different patterns to fit into a new creation. Thank you for all the wonderful classes in the past. I am an experienced seamstress but have learned many new hints that have been helpful in sewing doll clothes.

      Margaret
      Margaret

      November 13, 2019

      I would like to see a class on alterations, plus tips on exchanging patterns pieces.

      MARI Dale
      MARI Dale

      November 13, 2019

      I would love a class on how to resize a shoe pattern.. I have a happy kidz gotz doll and her feet are longer and narrower then an American girl doll.

      Jennifer
      Jennifer

      November 13, 2019

      I am a new member, so this might have been covered at some point. But, I’d love to learn how to add embroidery designs to collars, dress bodices, sleeves, etc. with my embroidery machine. Also, it would be amazing if you could add embroidery designs in the store suited for doll clothing. Thank you for offering these useful tutorials. I’ve come a long way in the short time I’ve been sewing, thanks to SWC.

      Junie Born
      Junie Born

      November 13, 2019

      I have learned so much from your classes, I still have trouble deciding how to pick fabric that compliment each other in an outfit. I’m from the old school where you did same colors and never mixed flowers and plaids. I sew with a serger but I am not very good with it. When I bought it they offered classes on how to use it but we moved and I got really sick and missed out on the classes. So I would love classes on different uses for sergers. Thank you for all the classes you offer!

      Pamela W
      Pamela W

      November 13, 2019

      A course topic I would be interested in seeing presented in 2020 is selecting complementary fabrics and trims for making appealing doll outfits.
      It’s been covered indirectly within a few topics and somewhat in the design academy, but what I would love to see are a series of examples on how fabric choices and the trimmings all come together. If find this is the hardest part for me. I have a bunch of fabrics, trims and patterns on hand, but how do you make them work together – an outer fabric with a lining or contrast portion on a garment, matching tops to pants, trims or decorative features to embellish and complementing a shoe or purse or hat or accessory. It would be good to hear from different designers too – I’m sure it comes together differently – particularly for historic styles versus modern fashion.

      Laurel
      Laurel

      November 13, 2019

      I’ve learned so much already but accessories would be my choice. The little details, belts, hats, scarves bags etc.

      Debbie
      Debbie

      November 13, 2019

      I agree with many members for a presentation showing basic usage of a serger, different advanced techinques, and the different feet available and their uses. Another topic of interest would be specifics on sewing Accessories. I find myself in a quandary when those accessories don’t come together as they should…very frustrating! Especially shoes. I don’t seem to find the proper fabric.

      candy
      candy

      November 13, 2019

      first: the last class on gathers was excellent.
      I also would like to see an alterations for various 18 inch dolls.

      Sherri
      Sherri

      November 13, 2019

      I would love to see a course on serger’s and projects done on the serger. I would also like a course on embroidery. So maybe a month long class on a few different specialty classes and a sew along would be nice.

      Marietta Gutscher
      Marietta Gutscher

      November 13, 2019

      “What course topics or specific techniques would you like to see us present in 2020?”

      I would love to see Serger tips & tricks.

      Maurine
      Maurine

      November 13, 2019

      There are several topics that I would like to see done in 2020. One is the use of a serger on doll clothes. The other is some techniques for making doll purses and hats.
      Love this membership. I have learned so much.

      TrishC
      TrishC

      November 13, 2019

      Different linings, what to use and when. Sewing with tulle. Tips for easy zipper installation.

      Darlene Pruitt
      Darlene Pruitt

      November 13, 2019

      I’m interested in sewing for very small dolls. Would love to have some tips. Petite Blyth size.
      Thank you
      AND I LOVE LIBERTY OF LONDON FABRICS. I made my 3 granddaughters many many outfits with it and matching America Girls dolls too of course!
      Soon I’ll be making great granddaughter (or son) clothes

      Rebecca Flint
      Rebecca Flint

      November 13, 2019

      For 2020 I would like to see the following topics: Sewing historically accurate doll clothing & keeping excess bulk out of garments. Love being a member of the group. Thanks for all you guys do!

      Jeri
      Jeri

      November 13, 2019

      The fabric sounds wonderful – never seen this brand of fabric! I loved learning about the different feet – really got me out of my comfort zone. I’d like to learn more about using my serger. I’d also like ideas/help with easy to make projects to donate for charity (I like to idea of being able to donate 10 items instead of just 1 or 2 so more kids can enjoy them). I’d also like to learn more about different fabrics and how to work with them. For example, I’m finding that all knits are not the same and am having some difficulty figuring out what needle, etc. to use to make it work smoothly. Accessories would be another great topic. Thank you!

      Peggy
      Peggy

      November 13, 2019

      I would love to see a discussion of how to combine favorite pieces from various patterns to create a single garment, with a focus on methods of fitting each piece together well to form a new design. I know lots of folks do this already, but I think some inspiration from the runway, some ideas about what to combine, and some tips on color and pattern combos and fitting would be helpful to many.

      Frances
      Frances

      November 13, 2019

      Virginia’s idea of an historical outfit sew-along really appeals to me!

      Ellen
      Ellen

      November 13, 2019

      Mechanics! The class on the different feet was awesome and I learned so much! I would love to have classes on using a serger. Like many others, it intimidates me and I just can’t get the hang of it. Also, pressing techniques on these tiny garments.

      Debi
      Debi

      November 13, 2019

      I would LOVE a class on sergers. I bought one a few years ago, but have never gotten the hang of it. Thanks!

      Virginia
      Virginia

      November 13, 2019

      I would love a coat or historical outfit sew along. From the beginning to the final stitiches.

      Dolly
      Dolly

      November 13, 2019

      I would like to see a session on doll coats. Not jackets necessarily but the full length coats How to make them a good fit and look right when the fabric is a little heavier. A sew along would be fun. Shari Fuller would be an awesome pick.

      Donna Leddy
      Donna Leddy

      November 12, 2019

      I would like the following topics please Historical patterns. Sewing for Ellowyne, Hats and handbags, making boots and more specialty shoes,

      Pat
      Pat

      November 12, 2019

      I think accessories would be a fun topic. Scarves, hats, bags, maybe even pets 🐶

      Jennifer
      Jennifer

      November 12, 2019

      I would like to see more period clothing patterns for everyday items like school dresses and sleepwear. Think tiny pin tucks and lace edgings on white Victorian nightgowns. Or 1950’s school dresses with appliqués and ric-rac trim! I love the Liberty fabrics — on an antiques shopping tour in England my daughter scored an armload of vintage Liberty prints! Heaven!!

      Doris  Lum
      Doris Lum

      November 12, 2019

      Serger use sounds interesting. I am also interested in streamlined sewing for our ASG chapter’s fundraiser. We raffle off six 18" dolls with wardrobes. We do fancy etc., but simple stylish clothes give our winners more options.

      Martha R.
      Martha R.

      November 12, 2019

      I would be interested in classes on pattern fitting and alterations to patterns to fit different sized dolls as I have a Gotz Precious Day doll, an Adora play doll, several American Girl dolls, along with Journey Girls, BFF, Inc., Wellie Wishers, Corolle Les Cheries, and all the Hearts for Hearts dolls. I have a number of “fit” books and used to alter patterns when I sewed for myself, but it would be great to scale it down to doll size instructions.

      I also like the idea of learning the ins and outs of making accessories like the backpacks and suitcases. Thanks for all you do. I have been on the mailing list since April 2014.

      Olga
      Olga

      November 12, 2019

      I would love to do some tailoring in miniature like a Chanel Jacket and how to make some trims that are true to scale. I love Liberty of London prints!

      Holly
      Holly

      November 12, 2019

      I too would love a Sheri Fuller sew along featuring one of her historical garments. Accessories would also be great. Thanks for all the wonderful classes so far!

      Kathleen
      Kathleen

      November 12, 2019

      I would like to see more beginner/advance friendly patterns. So many go from easy/beginner to intermediate or advanced skills. I would like to be able to build skills and confidence.

      More sew-alongs would be awesome! The coats would be great!

      PATTERN FITTING PLEASE!!!!! With all the different types of 18" dolls and even the changes that have gone into the AG dolls through the years, it’s hard to know how well a pattern will fit. I do notice some of the comments indicate the patterns are too tight for their dolls. If we knew how to check the most important places on the doll to the pattern, and then how to adjust the pattern, it would be most helpful because I do shy way from patterns that have indicated size issues.

      A sew-along with zippers. Something simple. A confidence boosting session.

      Thank you!

      Susan
      Susan

      November 12, 2019

      I would love a class on making the perfect lining for bodices, dresses, jackets, and coats. Also which fabrics are best linings for each example.

      I also think the serger lessons would be fantastic.

      Becky
      Becky

      November 12, 2019

      You are so generous to share your lovely fabrics with one of us. I’d love to see classes on how to determine what fabrics are made of. Also would like information on using the craft foam. And I’ll give a resounding vote for any classes Shari would like to teach.

      Cathy
      Cathy

      November 12, 2019

      I’d love some instructions on using a serger, also jewellery and accessories.

      Kim
      Kim

      November 12, 2019

      I would love a sew along of the Piccadilly peacoat and maybe how to resize shoes for odd sized feet.

      Heidi
      Heidi

      November 12, 2019

      Serger for doll clothes please!

      Virginia Goodwin-Gray
      Virginia Goodwin-Gray

      November 12, 2019

      I Love, love, LOVE Liberty of London fabrics!!
      It is one of my fabrics to sew and smock on and spoils you for calicos.
      As to classes, I’d like to learn how to adapt a shoe pattern for a doll that has a longer or slightly narrower foot. I have bought a number of your cute shoe patterns but, alas they don’t fit my Heidi Ott doll. Sandals are easy to adjust but closed toe shoes present a greater challenge.

      Nora
      Nora

      November 12, 2019

      Hi, thanks so much for this giveaway! I would love to see a course on how to adjust the fit of patterns for different dolls as there is variation among the AG dolls in size. I would love to know how to accurately adjust a pattern to fit a doll better if it is too big or too small. This would be different from making your own patterns, like in the pattern academy. Thanks!!!

      Christie
      Christie

      November 12, 2019

      Ooh, I love Liberty of London! Thanks for the giveaway! I would like to know how to work with woven woolens and other fabrics that ravel, stretch out of shape and warp easily. I have tried so many things and nothing is working quite right!

      Margaret
      Margaret

      November 12, 2019

      Thanks so much for the giveaway. I bet you could be lost in that store for hours. As to a new topic, I also would love more info on the best way to use my serger, accessories such as backpacks, purses, jewelry and belt would also be great but what I would love to see is merging topics such as how to use overlays with embroidery (think adding 3D tulle to a ballerina, pockets w/ bows, etc. Cartoon character imprints on pants, things like that. It adds so much interests and personalization to an outfit but many of us don’t know how to do it without and additional machine. My two cents for a Christmas wish!

      Alice Denny
      Alice Denny

      November 12, 2019

      There are several things I would find helpful and interesting;

      1. Ergonomics. How to pick a chair for sewing. How to set up your workspace to protect your back and neck. How to pick lighting to help avoid eyestrain. The best way to set up your space for ease of movement while in a sewing frenzy.

      2. Serging for doll clothes. Tips and tricks

      3. I would like to see a series on making some of the PVC furniture patterns. I know it’s not sewing but it is something that is doll related.

      4. Hats! All kinds of hats.

      5. Fabric. How to choose the right fabric for the right outfit. Also working with difficult fabrics like real velvet, furs, chiffon and plaids.

      Pat Stone
      Pat Stone

      November 12, 2019

      I would like to have courses on making accessories and jewelry for the dolls. I enjoy all of your classes and learn something from every one. Thanks to you and all of your colleagues who participate in these great learning opportunities.

      Connie
      Connie

      November 12, 2019

      I, like so many others, would like to have a class on techniques using a serger. I would also like more embellishment techniques and maybe a month of historical garments.

      Deanna Hanlin
      Deanna Hanlin

      November 12, 2019

      Thanks for the giveaway. I’ve gotten some similar Liberty of London cotton lawns at Farmhouse fabrics! I would like to have a sew-along on historical bonnets (Crabapples Stand by Me and Keeper Dolly Duds), and something with stays. Also serger lessons. Thanks

      Vicki
      Vicki

      November 12, 2019

      The suggestions given so far are great ones! I personally would like the sleeves, linings, ball gowns and jewelry suggestions. All of the classes I have viewed have had great techniques and suggestions. They encourage me to expand my horizons and try sewing

      items I might not have otherwise tried. Thank you for all that you do!

      kathy
      kathy

      November 12, 2019

      Learn how to used my serger and love tips from sheri fuller maybe sew along with one her great desgin

      Kathleen  A
      Kathleen A

      November 12, 2019

      “What course topics or specific techniques would you like to see us present in 2020?” I’m glad you asked! I’m interested in learning how to apply even more embellishments…like studs, rhinestones and snaps. I’d love to win the fabric! My great grandmother was a milliner in London!

      Kathleen A

      Pamela
      Pamela

      November 12, 2019

      A month on accessories would be nice. Perhaps purses one week. I have several adorable patterns from your site and the hardware to make them but have problems when the straps are too thick to sew through after being folded around the hardware. And yes, do you have a jewelry expert that could help with attaching the little fasteners at the end of our lovely little necklaces and bracelets? You have some very cute backpack patterns also. Some of us might be able to use some help on those. Then, many of us have beautiful leather and faux leather that we paid up to $20 per yard or piece for and are hesitant to cut into. Perhaps more direction on making items, both clothing and accessories from this type of material. Thanks for the opportunity to give input!

      Karen
      Karen

      November 12, 2019

      Hello! If love a class on using my surger. I’m sure there is a secret formula to figure out the numbers I should set my machine to each time I want to sew instead of leaving them in one place for everything!!. I conquered the threading, it now only takes a half hour as opposed to a half day!!

      Sandra Cox
      Sandra Cox

      November 12, 2019

      You have covered so much, this is getting tough! Let’s think, maybe in 2020 you could cover small detailed embroidery designs, others stated tips on use of the Serger. Accessories would also be a nice touch.

      Anna S
      Anna S

      November 12, 2019

      In 2020, I would love to see more classes featuring Shari Fuller. I really liked her in-depth technical tips, like all of the different ways to sew snaps and buttons. I am interested in learning how to make finely finished garments, so the more precise and thorough the class, the better!
      Someone suggested a class about plackets, and that would be awesome. Button plackets are still something of a mystery to me, and learning to do them neatly and correctly would be great!
      Thanks!

      Marilee
      Marilee

      November 12, 2019

      Matching outfits for girl and her doll. My granddaughter went nuts for the one I made from cobbling several patterns together to fit our design. I also like the serger and linings suggestion.

      Carol B
      Carol B

      November 12, 2019

      I would love a course on adapting serger techniques to doll clothing. I have a serger and use often on people-size sewing but have trouble using it on the small seams. It would be fun to learn to use serger embellishment on mini clothing also. Thanks for all the knowledge and tips you have shared with us from SWC’s beginning!

      Rebecca
      Rebecca

      November 12, 2019

      For 2020, I would love to see more techniques on Outerwear, special shoes, accessories, and hats. I would also like a special class on sleeves and manipulating the slopers to achieve different results.

      Rebecca
      Rebecca

      November 12, 2019

      For 2020, I would love to see more techniques on Outerwear, special shoes, accessories, and hats. I would also like a special class on sleeves and manipulating the slopers to achieve different results.

      Kimberly C
      Kimberly C

      November 12, 2019

      I would really like to learn about using a serger and maybe some embroidery focus?

      Sharon B.
      Sharon B.

      November 12, 2019

      I love everyone’s suggestions for classes – linings would be good, but love the idea of making accessories as well. I am excited about the giveaway, but also sad – I was in London this past summer, too, but didn’t know about what looks like a fabulous store! That would have been so much fun (although my family might not have thought so :)!!!

      Beth C
      Beth C

      November 12, 2019

      I would love to learn about using my serger when making doll clothes.

      LIANA Gooding
      LIANA Gooding

      November 12, 2019

      Linings would be a good one. Rouching, too.

      Carol Cochran
      Carol Cochran

      November 12, 2019

      How fun to get to see Liberty of London in person! And so nice of you to share your lovely fabrics! I would love to see a topic on serging as well, as I am having a hard time serging the small curves in particular! Another topic I would like to see is on lining’s. I have been a member of SWC since almost the beginning and I just love it. I don’t post much, but really enjoy it! Thank you Cinnamon and team!

      Tracy
      Tracy

      November 12, 2019

      I would enjoy a class overstitch serger and the many ways to add elements to projects.

      Sherry H
      Sherry H

      November 12, 2019

      I would like to see more detailed instructions on the use of 5mm foam. There are several patterns that use this, such as sports helmets. I would like to see some detailed instructions and ideas on the seams and smooth finishes. And maybe even using the foam to create additional accessories.

      Tommie
      Tommie

      November 12, 2019

      I would love to learn serger techniques.
      I have a serger that I rarely use because I have not taken the time to learn about it !

      Patricia Economos
      Patricia Economos

      November 12, 2019

      I would love to learn how to add linings to different garments

      Deborah
      Deborah

      November 12, 2019

      Various sleeve designs, Bella Rose Dress walk through, Charro Dress walk through, Unmentionables, Sergers

      debbie swanson
      debbie swanson

      November 12, 2019

      I would love to learn more about using my serger, I have not used it in probably 8 years, also
      how to on multiply layers of fabric to keep all smooth(so to speak) within a 1/4 inch seam.
      I have been a member for a few years, just can’t wait until Tuesdays roll around, you inspire me so much I have numerous projects going at once, thank you Cinnamon

      Jacquie Corrigan
      Jacquie Corrigan

      November 12, 2019

      I’d love tips on linings, and also serger tips! What a treat to visit the Liberty store in London! There is nothing quite like their fabulously soft cotton lawn! Many thanks Cinnamon!

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