Sewing With Cinnamon

Embellishments - Painting On Fabric

Hi Everyone! Today we get to have a bit of fun and get our hands dirty while learning some fabric painting techniques! This is a fun embellishment that you can add to a variety of items. There are many different types of paints and a variety of painting techniques to use which result in a large variety of outcomes - which is fantastic! This is something anyone can do, there are simple techniques and more complicated techniques- you don't have to consider yourself an a painting artist to use paints on fabrics. Of course, if you have that skillset, then you can really take this type of embellishment to the next level! There are some amazing designer examples, just browse Pinterest... Gucci comes to mind, but there are a lot of examples of painted denim and leather, it's all pretty inspiring!

Continue Reading >

Embellishments - Fabric Flowers, Lace Trims, and Ruffles

Hi Everyone! Today we go deep into embellishing with fabric and lace trims. I love this type of embellishment because it adds interest and a unique look to your item without adding additional cost. Using what you have on hand to create something that stands out is the goal here! I'm excited to share with you what I've learned!

Continue Reading >

Embellishments - Topic Overview and Pre-made Embroidered Appliqué

Hi Everyone! Let's talk about - Working with embellishments!  I've been working with adding embellishments for quite a while. I've tried many things that work well and a variety of things that were an epic failure! I'm excited to share the things I've learned with you as well as pick up new tips and suggestions from the group. Adding the right embellishment to your item gives you the opportunity to stand out and create something unique and beautiful! So let's dive into this topic and experiment with some fun new ideas and techniques. Don't worry, I am a big fan of "Keeping Things Simple" while focusing on the end result looking amazing. I promise this will be a fun month!

Continue Reading >

Sewing In Bulk Quantities - Packaging and Branding

Hi, Everyone! You've worked hard to make your items, now let's talk about the finishing touches! Packaging and branding are so important as you think through how to pass along your hand made items. Whether you sell them or plan to give them as gifts, you should plan to "Wow!" the recipient with beautiful packaging! Including things like a handwritten note card, logo stickers, boxes or bags; logo tags sewn into your items, and a few added ribbons or hanging tags. Remember that you only get one chance to make an unforgettable first impression and if you do it well, they will be coming back for more (and possibly tell their friends!)

Continue Reading >

Sewing In Bulk Quantities - Project and Clothing Storage

Hi, Everyone! So, now that we're sewing batches of dresses, pants, and tees; we need to figure out how to store them properly. Two types of storage situations come to mind: 1. Storing items to sell (or possibly donate) and 2. Storing items in your own collection. Many of the solutions provided can apply to both situations, but the things like plastic bags will only work for a quick turn around, like selling to a customer.

Continue Reading >

Sewing In Bulk Quantities - The Sewing Process

Hi Everyone! This week we're going deep into the process of a bulk sewing project. I've chosen the LJ Salina dress to illustrate the process of fabric selection, cutting, sewing, and pressing the items in a streamlined process. It's always interesting that you can sew a pile of the same thing without adding a huge amount of time compared to sewing one item individually. You can likely sew a single dress in a hour or so, but you can sew a dozen at one time in about 2 hours - that's definitely worth trying!

Continue Reading >

Sewing In Bulk Quantities - Topic Overview

Hi Everyone! Let's talk about - Sewing In Bulk Quantities!  I'm excited to share the things I've learned with you as well as pick up new tips and suggestions from the group. Maybe you're asking - "Why would I want to sew in bulk?" There are a few reasons... First, maybe you want to sell items you make at a craft fair, in an Etsy shop, or in local retail. Second, maybe you're considering donating a bunch of items to a charity during the holidays (which will result in lot's of happy little girls and boys!), or maybe you just want to make a large wardrobe for your collection - a girl can never have too many pairs of jeans, right?! 

Continue Reading >