Welcome to DAY 9 of our 12 Days of Christmas celebration!
For our 9th Day Of Christmas giveaway, we are doing a GIVEAWAY of one $100 JOANN Gift Card to one lucky winner. The gift card can be used towards any item available on their website or retail location. Woot, Woot!
Maybe you'll use your gift card to buy a few supplies to use on your next pattern hack! Need some ideas? Well, we have a full collection of Pattern Hack tutorials available in Sewing With Cinnamon! You'll find them sprinkled through many of the courses and a few on the SWC Youtube channel too!
Here's a peek at one of my favorite pattern hacks! The Starlight Gala Blossom Mash-up! Love the look of this dress? The Tiffany blue silk dupioni is so amazing! We used the Opening Night Luxe Kit to make this dress!
There are so many pattern hack video tutorials available in Sewing With Cinnamon and the new platform make it so easy to watch at any time from anywhere!
Hoodie Denim Jacket
Fur Lined Denim Jacket
Fold Over Waistband Mini Skirt
Pleated Hight Waisted Jeans
Silk Road Dress - LJ Hack and the Snowman Appliqué Hack
Staw Tote Pattern Hack
Simple Sleeves Pattern hacks
Banded Beret
Classic Peacoat (no pleats in back)
Koala Hoodie (Crafty Lil Turkey)
Holiday Dress - Creating A Ruched Bodice
Blossom-Starlight Gala Mash-up
So-Cal Beach Vibes
and so many more...
Plus you can find a large variety of pattern hack blog posts right here on Pixie Faire! Click here: Pattern Hacks to see the collection.
ENTER TO WIN A $100 JOANN Gift Card!
Toenter this week's contest, simply click the link below and then enter through the giveaway widget at the bottom of the blog post, there are many things you can do to earn multiple entry points!
Contest Details: You enter through the entry form that is embedded on this page and appears just below this paragraph, if you don't see it, be sure to visit the page from your desktop or an alternate browser such as Google Chrome. It may not appear on all mobile devices. The complete rules and entry details appear on the entry form. This is not a comment contest - in other words, leaving a comment on the bottom of this page is not an official entry method. The only required entry method is to leave a comment under this post and then confirm that you did it in the contest widget. One person will receive the gift card. You can enter once, or gain multiple entries by completing the other entry methods and increase your chances of winning. Please review all Terms and Conditions on the giveaway page before entering. While we wish we could run this contest everywhere, for legal reasons it is only open to eligible residents of the U.S. and Canada, not including Rhode Island. This contest is exclusively endorsed by Pixie Faire and Sewing With Cinnamon.
Commenting below and confirming your entry in the widget above gives you one entry method, the other methods are listed in the widget above, be sure to enter in as many ways as you can to receive the maximum amount of entries to win the prize!
Entry method #1, comment on this blog post finishing the following sentence…
“My best sewing tip is ________.” Tell us why :)
Comments must be left (on this blog post) by midnight (pacific) on Monday, 1/2/2023.
The widget will be updated the following day with the first name of the winner. The winner will be contacted at the email provided when entering.
Additionally, by commenting, you agree to allow us to use your comments for future promotional activities. In other words – we might quote you when we are putting together new testimonial pages. If you’re not okay with that – don’t leave a comment.
Okay, good luck, and if we’ve forgotten anything we will modify and/or update this post as needed.
We hope you enjoy our 12 Days Of Christmas Celebration. We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support and wish you a happy holiday season, and a terrific new year!
Happy New Year!
Cinnamon & Pixie Faire Team
100 Comments
Susi
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to remember to reduce the size of your stitches so they’re size appropriate for little garments.
Maureen B
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is the same as Linda Fogt. I use 1/4" double sided basting tape instead of pins whenever I need to hold down difficult seams. But I love Charlotte’s idea of using Glue-Baste-It for holding trim in place and I will try Karen’s idea of using freezer paper to cut out patterns. Lots of good ideas in this blog!
Barbara Lipovics
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip that I use is using an empty pin cushion tomato to press th ops of doll sleeves. It fits so well and comes in several sizes for whatever small curve you need to press.
Gail
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to be organized, read the directions and have fun
Becky Cortese
January 02, 2023
My best tip is to use a rotary cutter on doll patterns instead of scissors. Much more precise and faster.
Dori Bockbrader
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to keep your fingers—esp. index finger—out of the way of the needle. I sewed right through my nail and finger, needle broke inside—OUCH!—visit to Dr.
Lauren
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to copy your pattern onto interfacing fabric or recycled non woven fabric bags. The pattern lasts so much longer than a paper pattern.
Kathi M
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to look over the instructions ahead of time. It will save time as you sew
Marian Peoples
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is marking the fabric with Frixion pens. This ink “magically” disappears when pressed. Since my other tip would be from a high school teacher that I had 57 years ago “Press as you sew” It has saved me a lot of tears.
kim deems
January 02, 2023
Adjust your stitch length to mimic ready to wear for a professional look to any garment.
Charissa
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is just sew! A friend told me years ago that even if you only sew 5-10 minutes at a sitting, the project would in the end be finished.
Faith
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to read the instructions first, that way u will know what to do. This cuts down on frustration.
Maren
January 02, 2023
Pilot brand Frixion pen ink disappears when ironed! I find those pens easier to use than the disappearing ink markers found in the notions department.
Sandy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to press as you go. Also, if you get tired or something is not working out as you hoped, take a break and try again later.
Carol
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to be perpared; have all the supplies you need for the project out and ready, read over the pattern, have a clean work area and be ready to enjoy sewing.
CdnCrafter
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to start at a beginner’s level and work your way up to more difficult patterns.
Sabrina E
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use wonder tape at the beginning of a seam for floppy fabrics to keep them from sucking down into the sewing machine.
Dawn
January 02, 2023
A sewing hack I used this month was a way to find specific fabric I wanted when I could not find what I wanted by going to Goodwill and buying a mens large shirt in the perfect fabric I needed. I then cut apart the shirt and it was enough to make 4 doll blouses. Of course this works best if you won’t need to fussy cut.
Judith Shear
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to read the instructions TWICE before doing anything else.
Corinne Janes
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use freezer paper when cutting delicate fabric for patterns.
Christine
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to not put sewing off so you can do everything else! If you do everything else first, you may not get to sew!
Margaret
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is using tracing paper to copy patterns. Can use 25# wgt paper which will work in copier. It even helps to make adjustments to pattern if needed.
Cathy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is that if you’re working on more than one project at a time, bag everything — thread, bobbin, pattern pieces, extra fabric and instructions, until you start working on that project again
Ellen Ludington
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to take your time when working on a project and walk away when you get frustrated.
Cathy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is that if you’re working on more than one project at a time, bag everything — thread, bobbin, pattern pieces, extra fabric and instructions, until you start working on that project again
Amy
January 02, 2023
My tip is try not to sit for longer than 45 minutes at a time. Stretch, I get on the tread mill, walk around the block, take care of yourself.
Lisa H
January 02, 2023
My best tip is to keep a fabric only scissors! Once you cut paper, or something other than fabric, with your scissors, they will never cut fabric as well after that.
Lisa H
January 02, 2023
My best tip is to keep a fabric only scissors! Once you cut paper, or something other than fabric, with your scissors, they will never cut fabric as well after that.
Dorothy
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to stop when things start to go wrong and pick it up later.
Heather
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to make use of the iron and press between every step, especially on seams and darts.
Heather Dean
January 02, 2023
Press as you go
Christine R
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip comes from my mom. Long ago she taught me to cut notches outward not inward when cutting out a pattern….can see better this way.
Rene Johnson
January 02, 2023
do not use cheap thread ,it will tangle or break takes away the fun of sewing
use correct needle for your project. It makes a world of difference.
Stephanie
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is always iron! Saves time and frustration, in the end.
Cindy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to read through all pattern instructions 1st and be sure to have all supplies ready before you start, including the iron.
Kelly
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to schedule my sewing time for the week, in the same way that I schedule other activities. That way, I’m not disappointed at the end of each day that I didn’t accomplish any of my sewing plans. I may need to revise my plan; but I know I’ve given myself my best chance to reach my sewing goals. :)
Mary Jo
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip stay calm, iron it out and enjoy.
Brenda
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to iron and sew seams in the right direction so the seams will be perfectly matched.
Rita
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is using recycled gallon+ sized zip lock bags to house pattern pieces as well as cut pattern pieces.
Theresa
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is, never use a “lazy woman’s thread” when doing any hand stitching. My mother always said that anything longer than 18" was considered a lazy woman’s thread. And I have found that long tails get tangled and I spend more time untangling knots than actual sewing. So to complete your hand sewing projects, shorter thread lengths are better.
Wendy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use a thinner thread like Aurifil 50 or 60 weight. Amazing how much easier it is to press seams with this thread. I use it in almost all my sewing now, especially small pieces. Seems expensive but lasts a long time.
Cecilia M Mire
January 02, 2023
My bewing tip is never sew when you are tired, do not hurry to finish a project because you are almost there and walk away and do something else for a while when you get frustrated and then return to the sewing project and you will be amazed at the end result.
Anne Marie
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to constantly press as you go – do not skip this step as you will be sorry.
Audrey Stewart
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to walk away when you get frustrated with something you’re working on.
Debbie
January 02, 2023
Follow all instructions!
Christine
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is Iron, Iron Iron as you go. Your finished product will look so much better when completed. Much easier to iron the seam as you go than at the end.
Nancy R
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is save your old clothes and use thrift shop finds for making doll clothes. You save lots of money, save the environment and have unique outfits for your dolls.
Linda Fogt
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use the 1/4 inch double sided basting tap to do narrow heming instead of basing or pinning
Dawn
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is iron as you go along. Iron those seams and items turned inside out. Makes the finished product look more professional.
Shaneka
January 02, 2023
Never sew when you are tired! You will make lots of mistakes! Just wait until you are rested and then begin.
Joan Larson
January 02, 2023
Use the best equipment you can afford and keep your instruments (scissors, rotary blades, etc.) sharp.
mami2jcn
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to have adequate lighting so you can see what you’re doing!
Marlene
January 02, 2023
Use the attachments that come with your machine and invest in ones that don’t.
Lois
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to read the directions before you sew and then while you sew.
Shea
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to make sure to give yourself plenty of time for each project. Don’t rush it. Unforeseeable issues can always arise, which can almost always be easily fixed with enough time =) Also the extra time allows for you to pay closer attention to your work and not be so rushed.
Anita Derringer
January 02, 2023
“My best sewing tip is have a designated pair of scissors for sewing only!”
Patricia
January 02, 2023
Iron as you sew!!!!!
Sharon
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to keep trying! You will learn something new every time you make something that you will be able to apply to another project.
Jessica L
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to learn a technique each time you see. Never be afraid to try a new technique or fabric,.
Deborah D
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use clear page protectors to store individual patterns in a binder. I print a copy of the pattern cover, slide it into the protector and add the cut pieces in front of it. I use tabbed index dividers to separate dresses from jeans and so on.
Jeanne
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to press after every step. This will go a long way in making your project look professional.
Carol
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to pick the perfect fabric for your project. Then you will love the process and project no matter what obstacles you encounter.
Allison C
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to not rush or assume you remember how to piece the pattern together. Follow the directions and take your time. Ripping isn’t worth the rush!
ES
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is patience. It’s better to go over your plan/pattern twice than to sew/cut twice:D
Feriba
January 02, 2023
my best sewing tip is read your pattern before you start
Patti M
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to wax ( beeswax) your thread when hand stitching. This creates less friction on the thread, which reduces the breakage. It also strengthens the thread when ironed.
Debbie
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to press the seams as you go.
Denise
January 02, 2023
Always use a ballpoint or stretch needle when working with knits.
AJBessette
January 02, 2023
Love all the tips, especially the “follow all the instructions”
Louise
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is iron as you go. It makes the piece look so much more professional.
Kathy
January 02, 2023
My sewing tip is have the pattern and fabric and pattern pieces all together and keep in box then when am taking a break from sewing that day all the a stuff goes back in box and I don’t lose my project and it doesn’t get lost in my sewing room
Stella Brown Wear
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is ironing as you go. Many times, what I just finished sewing looks “wrong” and unprofessional until I iron the seams or curves, etc. Then each seam that you can finish the edge needs to be done as you go.
Elaine R
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is take your time, check and double check.
Bonnie
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is make a copy cover of each pattern. put in a binder. on each pattern picture
state where is pattern is. I also have my pattern in binders & marked drawers.
Dianna L.
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to keep all of your project together. It is so easy to lose pattern pieces and directions if you have to stop for the day.
Lynn M
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to press every seam (if you can). My mom always stressed this when teaching me to sew when I was young. It makes your project look neat, crisp and well made.
Yahaira
January 02, 2023
Love your patterns. I enter the contest widge.
Donna
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to keep your scissors sharpened.
Cyndi
January 02, 2023
My Best Sewing Tip is to iron as you go, this helps you to inspect for bunched places.
Denise Amrich
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is to use the glass head silk pins for doll clothes. They don’t warp the fabric or leave large holes. They really help when it comes to the level of detail doll clothes require. They are my go to pins for everything besides quilts now.
Crystal Gee
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is when trimming your project item, turn the item rather than turning the scissors. Cut slowly. That’s been a huge game-changer for me. Hope it can help someone else. Happy Sewing!
Ginger
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to always clean your sewing machine beforehand that way the machine doesn’t mess up the stitches and fabric.
Lurlie Walter
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to stay stitch all the way around a fabric piece that easily frays
Karen Carroll
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is if something becomes frustrating, walk away and come back later to finish. Usually, the problem goes away after a break.
Donna
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to make sure your using the right needle for the fabric.
Debi
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip (that Cinnamon taught) is to use tissue paper or coffee filters under knit fabrics.
Patricia Peterson
January 02, 2023
My best sewing trip is to use discarded old patterns under the fabric to stabilize thin material and to begin and end seams. I haven’t tried coffee filters yet. I also watch youtube videos if I have a sewing challenge like making a buttonhole by hand or sewing a small smooth pleat.
Shirley Camidge
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is pay attention to detail. It makes the difference on your finished project.
Lynn Acheson
January 02, 2023
My best sewing top is, be precise with seam allowances and press every seam as you go.
Judy
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to have good lighting especially in the winter. I just recently bought a new Floor Ott lamp and it makes such a difference with sewing on gloomy days.
Sara Denluck
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to use your iron as you go (as you sew). You will end up with a much better result!
Linda Haynes.
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to stay stitch facings as much as you can.
Fran Bott
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is for thick seams. We have all had it happen – You get to the thickest part of a seam, the toe of your presser foot starts to point up instead of staying flat and the machine bogs down, maybe even breaking a needle.
Next time as you get the that thick part, slow down and as the toe of the presser foot starts to point up, take your finger and press down on the toe and slowly sew across the seam. The key is to keep the presser foot level. You only need to hold it for a few stitches. Once it gets past the thickest part, you can release it continue sewing.
This does the same thing as a hump jumper without all the hassel.
Charlotte
January 02, 2023
My favorite sewing tip is: fabric glue! I use glue stick (washes out) for matching stripes or holding seam allowances in place so I can sew over them without them moving the “wrong” way. And I use Roxanne’s Glue-Baste-It to hold narrow trims such as rickrack, braid, etc. in place before I sew it. I use the one that comes with a “needle” type applicator, and I tab tiny dots of glue on (measuring carefully to ensure the trim will be straight), the press the trim down. As I do that, I stab-pin here and there (thru my ironing-board pad) to hold it in place until the glue dries. Once the glue is dry, I carefully remove the pins, and take the item to the machine and permanently sew it in place. I love using this method, as it allows me to precisely position even very narrow trims on small-sized doll clothes, and keep them in place while I sew over them! (I sew for dolls from 5" and up!)
Laurel S.
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to press seams as you sew. Your garment will be much more professional looking and more satisfying upon completion.
Donna Schneider
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is the same one my electrician son uses at his work; measure twice, cut once.
Frances
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to do it by hand wherever you can.
Karen
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to trace the sewing pattern pieces onto freezer paper first and then iron them onto the fabric, which makes cutting the fabric pieces easier and more accurate.
Carol Fox
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is use the instructions!
Margie
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to try a new pattern with fabric you’re not crazy about. That way, if it’s a flop, at least you haven’t ruined your favorite fabric. I suppose this applies more to people clothing. I’ve ruined a lot of nice fabric trying a new pattern only to find the pattern doesn’t fit me right or the style doesn’t really suit my frame. That’s why I love sewing doll clothing, they never gain weight and their shape is always the same!
Susi
January 02, 2023
My best sewing tip is to remember to reduce the size of your stitches so they’re size appropriate for little garments.