Get on board with the sew-it-yourself trend
By Aimee Heckel
Hello, retro revival! Thank Pinterest, or simply thank the cycle of trends. But increasingly more modern moms are adding a little SIY (sew it yourself) to their DIY projects.
Why sew? Learning to sew is one of the best ways to save money on your clothes and household goods. Don’t throw away your daughter’s dress with the broken strap. Make your own curtains and pillowcases. Make your own Halloween costumes for a fraction of the inflated price at the store. The investment of a sewing machine will pay itself off after a few small projects.
New to SIY? Here are some beginner sewing tips.
1. Get an easy-to-use sewing machine. The Crafty Gemini blogger recommends the Kenmore 19106 or Janome 11542, and we agree. Although this machine is relatively basic, it still offers 42 different stitch functions to grow into. The horizontal, drop-in bobbin provides a quick setup.
Find the Kenmore 19106 at Sears.com for just $89.88, on sale right now from about $110. Save money on the machine by using a Sears coupon, like $5 off a $50 purchase. Get an additional 7 percent Cash Back when you buy through ShopAtHome.com. Read more articles about saving money at Sears here.
2. Sign up for a sewing lesson. You can find free sewing tutorials and videos online, or check your local fabric or craft store. You could also ask local senior centers and retirement communities to connect you with someone who can sew — and who might also enjoy the extra company.
3. Begin experimenting with cheap and free sewing patterns.
- Here is a link to a free apron pattern. Pick a fabric with fall colors and designs and design your own Thanksgiving apron this year.
- Make matching or complimentary cloth napkins for the Thanksgiving table. Here is a link to free cloth napkin patterns.
- Personalize a gift for your family and friends this holiday season with these wine bottle gift wraps.
Trend report: In response to the growing demand for sewing goods, the iconic Husqvarna Viking sewing company recently launched five new sewing/embroidery machines.
- Into embroidery: Check out the Designer Diamond Royale and Designer Topaz 50 machines.
- Avid sewers: Don’t miss the Husqvarna Viking’s new Sapphire 960Q and Sapphire 930.
- Looking for a top-of-the-line quilting machine? We love the Platinum 16 mid-arm.
- Husqvarna Viking also launched new embroidery software.
Want to save money on products for babies and kids? Check out these babies and kids coupons.
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