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Exclusive Interview & Giveaway for Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love!

December 3, 2013 by AllFreeSewing

Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love

AllFreeSewing is so excited to have Kerry Goulder, creator of Kid Giddy to talk with us today! In addition to running a blog, shop, and more, Goulder is the creative genius behind the new book, Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love: 18 Toy Patterns for the Storytelling Sewist, which was just released this year. True to its name this book offers a fantastic journey that any imaginative sewist should take. See what Goulder has to say about what inspired her to create this collection, the challenges she had while creating it, and more!

When you’re through reading, find out how you can win your very own signed copy of Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love: 18 Toys Patterns for the Storytelling Sewist.

 

Kerry Goulder from Kid Giddy1. Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love is your first sewing book. What inspired the topic?

Everything we do in life has a story behind it. I wanted to capture some of the stories from my own life in a fun and meaningful way for my kids, to have and share later in their lives. I knew I wanted to write a story to go along with each pattern, and wanted the book to have the appeal of an old (but new) story book to be shared with loved ones while making their projects or giving them.

2. The variety of characters and elements in this book is incredible; do you usually design with someone specific in mind to give the toy to, or do these creations come to life as you sew?

Many of the patterns have been inspired by different people, places, or times in my life, as well as from my dreams. Some patterns have also been inspired by trends popping up all around, like the hot air balloon. I have never been in one and probably never will, but the beauty of them floating in the wild blue yonder is certainly tempting.

3. Do you have a favorite toy from this collection?

I’m not sure I can pick a favorite. I tell my girls that it’s not nice to pick favorites because it could make others feel left out. I will say that although some are easier and quicker to make than others, it doesn’t always mean I love those more. Many of these patterns I have held onto for years in the hopes of putting them all together in one book.

4. What was the biggest challenge for you while creating this book?

Keeping the family, church, and life balance was by far the hardest challenge. There were many days I woke up and fell asleep crying from the stress of deadlines and the feelings of being unbalanced in my life. I wondered often if I was doing the right thing, but couldn’t throw in the towel. I’m a perfectionist and wanted what was in my head to show in the book. For me that meant not just one gnome, but four, not just one mushroom or buoy, but multiples of each. I didn’t want the photos to be limited to single samples, so I made a ton of extra pieces for many of the patterns. Looking back, I wouldn’t do anything differently regarding the book or the samples, but would def bring in a sewing helper to help balance my time with my family.

5. Do you have any creative role models?

Other than my retired art teacher mom and my twin sister artist…there are a few designers I have kept tabs on since learning about them many many years ago. I discovered Heather Bailey and her invention, the Trash Ties™ when I invented the Tuck ‘n’ Go™. At the same time, I found her Nicey Jane™ and Pop Garden™ fabric lines which I still hoard in my studio. Around that same time a friend had told me about this fabric she saw recently and thought I’d like it. It was Amy Butler’s Midwest Modern™ fabrics, and yes, I hoard them too. In the past few years I’ve discovered SarahJane – she’s such a sweetheart and her fabrics are equally hoarded here. All three of them have inspired me for years to find my own voice.

6. Do your kids have a favorite toy that you’ve made (either from Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love or otherwise)?

They love all of the patterns but the Gnomes are most loved by all. When working on new patterns I don’t make anything with muslin (I guess you could say it annoys me because it is a boring color). I make all of my samples and patterns in beautiful fabrics, so my girls get to keep any “misfits” and love them despite their quirks! When a pattern works the first time, they are sad they don’t get to keep it.

7. In terms of being a published designer, what’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

I think the best advice I have ever gotten as an artist (not just a published designer) is to be true to myself. There are so many ideas out there, and so many artists are being copied left and right. We each have something to offer without having to copy someone else’s work. Learn new skills and techniques, but stay true to you and your own style. Be original so others can’t help but notice.

Thank you, Kerry!  All of the editors at AllFreeSewing are beyond excited about this treasure trove of toy patterns. If you’d like your very own copy of Sewing Tales to Stitch and Love: 18 Toy Patterns for the Storytelling Sewist, we’re giving away a copy! Even better about this copy? It’s signed by Kerry Goulder herself! Enter once a day, every day until December 16th! Best of luck to everyone!

Tell us, what was your favorite toy when you were little?

Filed Under: Contests & Giveaways Tagged With: Book Review, craft books, Designer, handmade toys, interview, sewing book, Sewing Books, toys

FaveQuilts Giveaway: Jangles Sewing Bundle from Jennifer Heymen

July 5, 2013 by FaveQuilts

I’ve always loved how quilting can be totally versatile depending upon the types of  fabrics, accessories, and textures you want to use. Whether you’re currently obsessed with fluffy embellishments, shiny ceramics, or painted buttons, you’re able to let your imagination run wild and add almost any type of  sweet, personalized touches to everything from quilted bags to bedspreads. The editors of FaveQuilts want to celebrate this creative freedom by giving away this Jangles Sewing Bundle full of some of most original quilting accessories that we’ve ever seen! This springtime-inspired bundle of designs by Jennifer Heymen makes a funky addition to your quilting workspace as well as a super trendy gift package you can give to a fellow quilter.

Ice-Cream-Sundae-Pin-Cushion
The first quilted accessory you’ll notice in this bundle will definitely be the scrumptious-looking quilted pin cushion. This inventive idea for an ice cream pin cushion sits upon a glazed ceramic “saucer” with four fluffy cushions pieced together to look like a slightly melted (but still delicious) sundae. All across these puffy tiers of fabric are circular embellishments, swirly buttons, and even a bright red cherry on top. Small quilted pin cushion patterns as unique as this Jangles original are hard to come by; give this fabulous quilted accessory as a sweet gift to a sewist in need of a cute pin cushion.

OkeyDokeyOwlBack

If you’re looking for new sewing inspiration, you’ll love the four nature-themed sewing patterns included in the Jangles bundle. Small children will love the chubby quilted toy you make from the Okey Dokey Owl pattern instructions. For an older child, the Okey Dokey Owl and Friends Applique Quilt is a fantastic quilted blanket pattern to help you brush up on your applique technique. Perhaps you’re in need of a few whimsical quilted tote bags? Make durable and useful quilted bags by using the Little Ditties sewing tutorial to learn how  to create four different quilted drawstring bags in the shape of a crab, cupcake, toadstool, or turtle. Finally, this fantastic bundle includes instructions on how to make your own Daisy Pin Cushion.
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Last but not least, Jangles has kindly included four small, yet equally adorable handmade ceramic buttons. Showcasing swirly designs and girly polka dot patterns, these pretty little accessories are the perfect final addition to any quilted shirt or small drawstring bag.

The eclectic material mix that is so unique to quilting and sewing serves as great inspiration for new quilting projects. In the spirit of this creativity, FaveQuilts is giving away a Jangles Sewing Bundle to one lucky winner this week. Enter to win by July 9nd for your chance to receive this charming sewing pattern, handmade pin cushion, and lovely button bundle that you or a friend are sure to adore.

Filed Under: Contests & Giveaways Tagged With: buttons, ceramics, Claire Hawkes, FaveQuilts, giveaway, handmade toys, pin cushion, quilted tote pattern, sewing patterns

18 DIY Toys, Games & Stuffed Animals Kids Will Love

May 3, 2013 by AllFreeSewing

We all know that when it comes to toys and games, kids can never have enough. For parents, grandparents or anyone trying to please a child, this can be very expensive. Fear not, for we have put together the ultimate guide to creating your own games and toys. With these free sewing patterns you can learn how to make games and toys the whole family can enjoy together. Sewing for a child who prefers to snuggle up with a softie? We’ve also included instructions for how to make a stuffed animal and stuffed animal patterns.

This collection of free games, toys and softies will hopefully keep the kids occupied until the next activity. You might even get a few minutes of quiet to yourself! Although, we can make no guarantees.

How to Make Games Kids Will Love

 

Times Tables Memory Game Pockets Tutorial  – Learning has never been more fun. Kids can play games and learn their times tables simultaneously. It’s an easy sewing project the kids will really love to play with.

Bean Bag Toss Tutorial  – Perfect for backyard parties this summer, this bean bag game is so simple to create. Bring it on over to your next outdoor gathering for easy fun everyone can enjoy.

For other fun DIY games, check out this entire collection.

Stuffed Animal Patterns

 

Plush Fox Pattern – This fox plushie is super cute and cuddly. It’s sure to be their new favorite stuffed animal!
Stuffed Elephant Pattern – How adorable are these little guys! The kids are sure to agree. Create a whole zoo family to play with.

Find more stuffed animal patterns in our handy roundup.

How to Make Toys

 

Child’s Tool Belt Tutorial – If you know a little one who loves to play with tools, follow toy sewing patterns like this one, which will complete his or her tool kit.

Child’s Outdoor Tent – This tent sewing pattern will provide a fun place for them to set up a clubhouse or camp out in the back yard.

We have even more toy patterns you should see. Check out the collection.

 

Our friends at AllFreeKidsCrafts.com have tons of amazing ideas too!

 

What was your favorite toy or game to play when you were a child?

 

Filed Under: Kids Crafts Projects Tagged With: Gifts, handmade toys, Kids Crafts, sewing patterns, Stuffed Animals

AllFreeSewing Book Giveaway: We Make Dolls!

July 9, 2012 by AllFreeSewing

We’re always sewing clothes, accessories, bags and home dec projects. For a little change, I thought it would be fun to take a look at sewing toys and dolls! I know what you’re thinking; sewing dolls seems a bit juvenile. Is that really such a bad thing? I think we should embrace this opportunity to sew something created purely for the fun of it! If you have kids, these dolls make for a great little toys. Otherwise, some of the patterns found in We Make Dolls! are perfectly suited for adults.

Here’s a book for the truly unique sewist. If you’re looking for inspiration to create your next quirky plush doll or toy, look no further. We Make Dolls! delivers all kinds of fun ideas including characters unseen anywhere else. Meet Super Girl, Elly the Elephant, Mr. Grumpy and more. 10 individual artists came together to create We Make Dolls!, each reflecting their own personal perspective and sewing style.

Want to win a copy of We Make Dolls!?

 

Enter to win We Make Dolls! The giveaway period ends July 23, 2012. You can enter to win everyday so keep coming back to increase your chances! Enter to win today.

For some free doll sewing patterns, check out these ideas:

  • Buzzing Buddies
  • Plush Fox Pattern
  • Stuffed Elephant Pattern

 

 

 

Filed Under: Contests & Giveaways Tagged With: book, book giveaway, DIY, dolls, giveaways, handmade toys, Sewing

Geek Crafts: Star Wars Craft Roundup

May 9, 2012 by FaveCrafts

I’m Haley Pierson-Cox from The Zen of Making, and this is your weekly dose of geeky goodness!

Last week, the geeks of the world celebrated Star Wars Day. (Get it? May the fourth?) Because I love of all things Luke-and-Leia, I’m following up the big day with a roundup of my favorite Start Wars crafts. Make them or not. There is no try!

If Star Wars isn’t your thing, there are plenty more geek craft ideas right here on FaveCrafts!

1. Wicket the Ewok from LucyRavenscar – Crochet Creatures

2. C-3PO from Toy-A-Day

3. Star Wars Felt Finger Puppets from Make and Takes

4. Star Wars Softie Pattern: Cuddly Chewbacca from Draw! Pilgrim

5. Star Wars Cookies: R2-D2 from The Sweet Adventures of Sugarbelle

6. Star Wars Napkin Rings Craft from The Star Wars Blog

Did you make something for Star Wars Day? Leave a comment below and tell us about it!

Filed Under: Full Project Tutorials Tagged With: Crochet Amigurumi, geek craft column, geek crafts, handmade toys

Hi Diddle Dee Dee! DIY Puppet Crafts

February 23, 2012 by FaveCrafts

A little wooden puppet skipped his way into the movies on February 23, 1940, when Walt Disney’s animated movie Pinocchio was released in theaters. In celebration of the event, today is Pinocchio Day–the best day for puppet crafts!  There are plenty of puppets you can make at home including hand puppets, finger puppets, and sock puppets.

wormWhen it comes to puppet materials, everyone has their own preferences. Personally I like to use felt because it reminds me of  my favorite puppets, Jim Henson’s Muppets. CutRateCrafts has several puppet kits and plenty of felt and wiggly eyes. And take it from a girl who knows a thing or two about puppets, it’s all in the eyes. Whether you use wiggly eyes, buttons, or felt pieces, a puppet’s look and personality can all be linked back to the placement of those eyes.

 

DIY Puppet Craft Tutorials

Finger puppets are pint-sized and work well for the tiny fingers of kids. Make some bunny finger puppets to give away as gifts or knit Oscar the Grouch’s buddy Smiley the Worm from the show Sesame Street. But if you want to include the kids in making a puppet, have them work on paper bag or sock puppets. Use a sock or paper bag as the creature’s body and attach different craft materials to create the features. It’s the perfect opportunity for them to use their imagination and create something wild.

Fun-Bath-FriendsHand puppets can be made out of tons of different materials. These Bath Friends are crocheted out of yarn. What kid wouldn’t want to take a bath when given the option to take one of these fun toys in with them? Or make stick puppets using foam balls, some paint, and wooden rods.

At the end of the day, finish off your puppet crafts by making an old-fashioned puppet theater. It’s easy to put on a puppet show by having kids hide under a table or behind a couch and popping up their puppet above. If you really want to add some scenery, check out this Medieval Puppet Theater that you can build out of Styrofoam blocks, some paint, and material.

 

Kermit the Frog will always be my favorite puppet. Who’s your all-time favorite puppet character?

Filed Under: DIY Tagged With: buttons, crafting with kids, Felt, handmade toys, puppets, socks, styrofoam

Link Love: Be a Softie

August 11, 2011 by FaveCrafts

Have you ever sewn a softie before? They’re so much fun! These are the perfect projects for beginners or non-committal sewers because they’re completed before you know it. Here are some cute and cuddly softies from around the web.

  1. No. 2 Pencil Softie from Obsessively Stitching
  2. Sewn Egg Chick from Petite Purls
  3. Kids’ Softie from One Crafty Mumma for Skip to My Lou
  4. Snuggly Owl from Sharing the Wealth
  5. Inchworm Pattern from We Wilsons
  6. Sushi Softies from Kinder Words
  7. Stuffed Fabric Turtles from Make It and Love It
  8. Mini Cake Roll from Toastie Studio
  9. Pippa and Rascal Softie Pattern from Ruffles and Stuff

Filed Under: Link Love Tagged With: handmade toys, Sewing, sewing patterns, softies, toy

Link Love: Angry Birds Crafts

April 7, 2011 by FaveCrafts

Do you play Angry Birds on your cell phone? If not, I suggest you check it out and download the app, but only if you’re interested in acquiring a new addiction! If you’d rather keep crafting, get in on the trend by making these adorable Angry Birds inspired crafts. They make great gifts for the Angry Birds enthusiasts in your life!

  1. Angry Birds Poms from Make and Takes.
  2. Needle Felted Angry Birds from Craftzine.
  3. Angry Birds Amigurumi from Angels Have the Phone Box.
  4. Angry Birds Christmas Ornaments from The Clock Blog.
  5. Plush Angry Birds from Obsessively Stitching.
  6. Lego Angry Birds from Sprite Stitch.
  7. Crochet Angry Birds Dog Hats from Posh Pooch Designs.
  8. Angry Birds Ornament from Dollar Store Crafts.
  9. Angry Birds Cake from Craftzine.

Filed Under: Link Love Tagged With: craft links, favorite crochet link, handmade toys, toys

AllFreeSewing Book Review and Giveaway: Sew It, Stuff It

January 10, 2011 by FaveCrafts

Put your sewing skills (whatever level you may be!) to use making homemade toys with the adorable projects included in this book. Inside you’ll find 25 soft toys to make, from homemade dolls to stuffed animals and baby toys.

Learn more and enter to win a copy here.

Contest ends January 24, 2011. You can enter once daily, so return often to improve your chances of winning!

Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: book giveaway, Book Review, handmade toys, sewing book

How to: Sew for Kids

September 1, 2010 by FaveCrafts

Sewing for kids is the ideal situation. Here are the pros:

  • Smaller bodies mean smaller clothes, which means less fabric.
  • Less fabric means less money, less time, and less hassle.
  • Kids look good in anything, so you don’t have to worry about tailoring anything to flatter their figures.
  • You can make all the ruffles, bows, fabric flowers, and other frills that you want if you’re sewing for a little girl.
  • Stuffed toys are quick and easy, especially for beginners (plus, they’re adorable).
  • Kids keep growing, so you get to keep sewing!

Now here are the cons:

…there are no cons. In that case, let’s get sewing!

If you’re interested in learning how to sew for kids, check out this article on free kids sewing projects.

You can make toys…
Stuffed BunnyOwl Sock FriendsSock MonstersRoll-up Checkerboard

…or clothes…

Lovely TutuNautical Sailor PantsApplique ShirtRuffle Pillowcase Dress

…or miscellaneous kids stuff!
Birdie BlanketHair ClipsKids PillowGrowth Chart

Do you do a lot of sewing for your kids? What’s the best part about it?

Filed Under: Sewing Tagged With: children, handmade toys, kids clothes, Sewing, sewing patterns

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Full Project Tutorials

Twist & Twirl Yarn by Bernat

New to the stores shelves is Bernat’s newly released yarn called Twist & Twirl. It comes as a 100 g ball and one ball can make 1 scarf. This yarn can be deceptive on how to use it. Let me show you how to operate this yarn. Cnce you get into the groove of understanding how to […]

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