Sewing & Embroidery How-Tos

How To: Make a table runner

In this video series, our expert Terri Turco will show you how to make and sew a table runner, and how to make a table runner without sewing. Terri will teach you how to iron the fabric, how to stitch the fabric, and how to use stitch witchery to fuse two pieces of fabric together.

How To: Make a sewing tote bag

In this video series our expert Terry Turco will show you how to make a sewing tote bag. She will show you how to make the pattern for the tote bag, mark the location of the handles, insert the handles, sew the bottom and the sides, and do a bit of slip stitching.

How To: Put in an easy, flat fly-front zipper

Ignore the instructions that came with your pattern. Most are so complicated, you'll give up and switch to a lapped zipper insertion. Learn detailed instructions for converting any zipper opening to a fly front. Click the Realplayer or Quicktime link to start the video. Put in an easy, flat fly-front zipper.

How To: Add piping to pockets

This video demonstrates the process utilized by seamstress Maria Perez to make piped pockets for the fashions in Manuel's Nashville, Tennessee, shop. It goes over how he makes the piping and then how it's added to the pockets. Make sure to click the RealPlayer or Quicktime link to start the video. Add piping to pockets.

How To: Do all-in-one piping and facing

For a neat, decorative edge finish, convert the piping flange to a self-finished facing, thereby eliminating the need for a separate facing or a lining. This video will show you just how to do all-in-one piping and facing with a thick and thin version. Make sure to click the RealPlayer or Quicktime link to start the video. Do all-in-one piping and facing.

How To: Sew a neckline binding for knits

The amount of stretch varies from knit to knit so it's important to learn how the different fabrics behave and then experiment with the various types of neckline finishes you'll be creating. This video takes you through the process of sewing neckline bindings for knits. Click the RealPlayer or Quicktime link to start the actual video.

How To: Conquer inset corners

Seamlines that incorporate sharp inside corners are cropping up in more and more patterns these days, including most designs with gussets, all shawl collars and some full-roll collars. Shirley Smith demonstrates her technique for creating a crisp, 90-degree corner, but it works for any angle. The only out-of-the-ordinary supply you'll need is a scrap of Swiss cotton organdy. So click the Real Player or Quicktime link and get started on learning how to conquer inset corners! Conquer inset corn...

How To: Make round box pillows

Square edges on a round box pillow are easy if you follow the steps. Learn the more obvious, but often overlooked, techniques for laundering buttoned pillow covers. This video goes over it all, just make sure to click the Real Player or Quicktime link to start the actual video.

How To: Sew silk

Shifting fabric, snags, and puckered seams are just a few of the pitfalls in working with silk. From choosing the right needle, thread, and stabilizer, to pre-shrinking and final pressing, learn how to simplify this intimidating process and correctly sew silk. Sew silk.

How To: Sew a baby blanket

In this video series, our expert mommy Karina Fraley, will demonstrate how you can sew your own baby blanket and burping cloth. If you have a new baby, you know how expenses can build up, but learning how to make easy sewing projects like this baby blanket is a cheap way to create a beautiful gift for your baby.

How To: Hem pants

In this video, Andrew explains the basics of what materials and supplies you need to get started in hemming your pants. Then he goes over choosing thread, the right size needle and finally hemming the pants.

How To: Sew a man's shirt

Stephany is going to take you through the process of sewing a mens shirt. She is going to use a pattern and talk to you first about choosing a pattern and knowing what the package means before you start. This is a very long video series, but sewing a shirt has many components to it, so be patient you'll finish the shirt eventually!

How To: Thread a sewing machine

This series will teach you the basics of sewing machine operation. Our expert will identify the parts of the sewing machine for you, as well as explain some of the general functions and abilities of the machine. Tips include how to thread a sewing machine, winding and installing the bobbin, selecting the proper foot, and turning the fabric.

How To: Know materials and supplies needed for sewing

In this informative video clip series, our expert seamstress will show you everything you need to begin a sewing project either by machine or by hand. Learn how to measure fabric and what types of measuring devices are available, see the types of scissors, rulers, thimbles and pins are available to choose from, and get pointers on fray checkers and seam rippers. Everything you'll need to begin a sewing project is right here!