Sew Janome

Running with Scissors @ Sheffield

2012-02-06T03:02:00.000-08:00

Last week I visited the Janome stockist in Sheffield, Woodseats, who told me all about Emma and her sewing workshops. I contacted Emma for more information, and she kindly sent me lots of details to share with you and some fabulous photographs.
"Running With Scissors, Sheffield’s first craft lounge, was set up in 2009 by Emma Kent to help others learn new skills and share her love of all things crafty. I wanted a business name that reflected the ethos of experimenting, taking some risks, and having some fun, which are all part of the Running With Scissors experience. At the moment we do lots of sewing based workshops and after lots of research decided to buy 5 Janome Machines for people to use at the workshops (they are very reliable, robust enough for beginners and people absolutely love the automatic needle threader!). I run about half the workshops myself and the others are run my guest tutors who are specialists in their particular craft, such as dress making or patchwork and quilting. Sewing Machines for beginners is our most popular workshop where people get to learn how to thread up a machines, do basic stitches and get to make a cushion cover (see above). People are so thrilled with what they have achieved at the workshop it never fails to give me a little buzz of excitement. Sewing is hugely popular at the moment and people want to make their own clothes, do alterations and make projects for the home. Some of our other workshops include ‘Zips and Buttons’ (we make the little purse above), ‘Curtains for Beginners’ and ‘Make your own Patchwork Quilt’. Our ‘A-Line skirt in a Day’ is so popular we are also going to run a ‘Dress in a Day’ workshop, this will be a bias cut dress (all will be explained at the workshop) which is flattering for lots of different body shapes.

My Gran made lots of clothes for me when I was a child and she taught me how to use a sewing machine back in the early 1980s, my early projects included a red and white spotted A-symmetrical top and a red pencil skirt with a zip down the centre front (eat your heart out Pepsi and Shirley!). Now I’m a bit more grown up my sewing project list is never ending, currently on the list are curtains for our lounge (bay window!), a green linen tunic top, a draft excluder (possibly a 1970’s sausage dog style), some cushions…….

Workshops are mainly held at the Meersbrook Park United Reformed Church, Chesterfield Road, Heeley (about 3 miles form the centre of Sheffield). We also offer private tuition in your own home, craft parties, hen parties and workplace lunchtime sessions. It looks like 2012 is going to be a busy year…

For more information on Emma sewing workshops, visit her website

For more information about our Sheffield Janome stockist, Woodseats Sewing Machines,check out their website

English Couture Company Open Day!!!

2012-01-11T04:13:00.000-08:00

Have you ever fancied learning how to make stunning tailored trousers, a gorgeous boned bodice, or the perfect size bra.... but a little nervous of getting started and signing up to a workshop? Well, this is the day for you!Michelle Pye will host an open day at her shop and training centre, English Couture Company in Syston, Leicestershire on Saturday 4th February 9am - 1pm.This is an informal opportunity to meet Michelle, have a look around the classroom and shop, and enjoy and lovely cup of tea and maybe a little something sweet as well.
Michelle has been teaching tailoring, dressmaking and lingerie courses for 12 years and moved into her current premises in June 2010. The shop stocks a huge range of couture fusible interfacing, interlinings, lingerie fabrics and haberdashery... if Michelle doesn't stock it, it's not worth having!
Her fully equipped classroom has everything you might need to make your perfect trousers, bra or even wedding dress... including Janome 6600p... one of our most popular professional sewing machines.
For more information, check out English Couture Company website, facebook page and twitter.

Christmas card and embroidery design created in Digitizier MBX!

2011-12-16T01:49:00.000-08:00

Every year I like to give handmade Christmas cards, last year they were using bits of fabric and free machine embroidery to create a bunting card, have a look here.

This year, at Janome, we have had a wonderful new top of line machine, the Horizon Memory Craft 12000 and new embroidery software Digitizer MBX. So, what a great time to see what I can make!

As always, time is in short supply on the lead up to Christmas, so my cards had to be something simply and quick to make... and I decided on a slightly different concept this year. I will create the Christmas card in CorelDraw Essentails X5, which comes as part of the Digitizer MBX package and use the same design to create an embroidery design for my MC12000!We have just had our technical training on CorelDraw Essentials X5, and many thanks to the wonderful Suzanne, who showed us all the hints and tips to use this fantastic software package!
So I used this package to design my Christmas Card. I have to confess, I didn't design the Christmas Tree from scratch, I used Istock website, which has 10000's of images for you to download. The Christmas Tree design was in .EPS, which is a vector format, this means you can edit the design piece by piece and also, it's makes converting to an embroidery so much better quality. Once my card was created, my Canon printer became very busy!
Then onto the embroidery design....
Using my Christmas Tree vector image, I went into Digitizer MBX, and into Graphics Mode, and selected "Convert Selected Graphics to Embroidery". This instantly converts each part of the image into embroidery, and now we are using a vector image, the software understands layering on elements of the embroidery design.
My Christmas Tree is now embroidery....
I then edited the design by changing some of the textures of the fill areas, by using Embossed Fill Patterns. My design is then ready to embroider in my Grand Hoop on my Horizon Memory Craft 12000.
Remember I said when using a vector image, it understands layering of embroidery elements... look at the bird, the body of the bird has been embroidered first, then the wings and eye is on top, this is the best way of using embroidery to give a quality finish.
The same with this bauble, the star is on top of the bauble, giving a great finish. Older software packages would have tried to make a hole for the star, making the stitches uneven and awkward looking.
I embroidered my tree on 100% linen canvas from Fabrics Galore, this is a gorgeous natural looking fabric and embroiders beautifully.
On the back I added some green buttons in different sizes to compliment the Christmas Tree embroidery design.
And... a Christmas Card and embroidered Cushion to match!

For more information on Digitizer, have a look at our website and, for the Horizon Memory Craft 12000, look here.

If you would like to use my Christmas Tree embroidery design on your Horizon Memory Craft 12000, please email me and I will send it to you as a 'jef file. heidi@janome-uk.co.uk

Have a wonderful Christmas and a very merry New Year!!!!

**************************************************************************************
I'm adding to this blog post on 9th January 2012.

Joan Kopp emailed and asked me for the .jef embroidery design of my Christmas Tree to use on her Memorycraft 11000 (using Digitizer MB to alter the size of the design) .... and look what I received this morning! A photograph of the fabulous table runner she made using the design!
Thank you so much Joan for sharing this with us.
Remember, if I have emailed you the design... please share with us your finished Christmas Tree projects!

New sewing studio opens in Yorkshire.... The Design Suite!

2011-12-15T01:05:00.000-08:00

I met Angela Feather a few weeks ago at the Knitting and Stitching Show in Harrogate, and I'm so glad I did! She told me all about her new venture, The Design Suite, which is based in Tockwith, roughly half way between Weatherby and York.
Angela was first inspired to sew by her Grandmother, who lived next door to the family home in New Zealand. Her Grandma would always be making her the latest fashions, and soon Angela got the sewing bug! At first using her Grandma's sewing machine, she finally got her own at age 12... and has never stopped sewing since!
After moving back to the UK, Angela studied textiles for five years, first with a Art & Design Course at York College and then Foundation Degree at Cleveland College of Art and Design in Hartlepool.
It was after this training, she realised there was a definite lack of suitable facilities in the area she lived..... and The Design Suite was born!

The Design Suite is made up of three studios, Studio One, Two and Print Studio.

Studio One has a gorgeous relaxed feel, with confortable seating and inspiring surroundings. This Studio is for the sewing and craft workshops, and can be hired for your own use for £50 half day.
Studio Two, is more formal, and is designed mainly for meetings and talks. It can be hired for your own use for £25 per hour.

The Print Studio is an open plan area to allow space for screen printing on fabric and wallpaper.Angela is running workshops in various subjects from dressmaking - basic and advanced, design and pattern cutting, free machine embroidery techniques, Christmas crafts, book binding, knitting, bunting making, and fashion drawing.
You don't need to take your own sewing machine to workshops, as the Studios have their own Janome Sewing Machines for you to use... and tea, coffee and cake is included with every workshop!
I can't wait to go and visit the Studio's in the New Year, and soak up the creative atmosphere... maybe a cuppa and cake...and hopefully join in with a little sewing while I'm there!

For more information on The Design Suite, visit their website, Twitter and Facebook page, and full list for workshops click here.

If you don't live in the Yorkshire area, why not check out our full list of recommended Janome Learning Centres all over the UK.

Santa visits Bambers Sewing Machines to see local children and help St. Ann's Hospice!

2011-12-12T01:52:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Bambers Sewing Machines let Santa turn their sewing classroom into his Grotto to speak to all the local children and see what they would like for Christmas! As I arrived at the shop, I could see one of Santa's elf's and Reindeer (aka. Alan and Steve) waving and telling everyone about Santa's visit!The weather might have been cold, but everyone was in warm spirit's to spread Christmas cheer. For children to visit Santa and receive a little Christmas gift, was free, and all money raised from the collection is for St. Ann's Hospice in Manchester. A place which is very close to the Bamber families heart.
Santa had done a wonderful job of transforming the classroom into his Grotto, but he did explain that he does this so often around the world and his little elf helpers are so quick, they can turn any place into into a cosy Christmas den in no time at all!I managed to have a quick chat with Santa, and he told me this year he had been busy, but enjoyed visiting Bambers last year so much, he just had to come back this year.... and hoped to make it a regular date in his Christmas Diary.

Maggie, Janet, Kathryn and Jenny, had made special Elf outfits to make Santa feel at home, and become his helpers for the day!

I couldn't resist... and had to have a photograph with Santa Reindeer (aka Alan) before I left!

For more information on Bambers Sewing Machines, and to find out about Santa's visit next year, check out their website and Facebook page.
If you would like to donate to St. Anns Hospice, please have a look at their website.

Knitting & Stitching Show @ Harrogate with White Rose Sewing & Craft Centre

2011-12-05T04:13:00.001-08:00

The Knitting and Stitching Show in Harrogate is our last one of the year, and it always has a Christmasy feel to it. This year was no exception, lots of customer were looking for new sewing machines for themselves for Christmas gifts, or for daughters and friends. The stand is ran by Phil from White Rose Sewing and Craft Centre in Harrogate, and Janome staff to support him.We had (nearly!) the full range of Janome sewing machines on demonstration, from basic sewing, computerised, embroidery, overlockers and embroidery design software, along with a great selection of Janome feet and accessories for your machine. With the huge interest in free machine embroidery, thanks to Kirstie Allsopp's Home Made Britain, we sold 100's of darning feet so people can have ago at home! If you haven't seen her sewing special, check out some of Craft Guides on the C4 website, scroll down to the Needlecraft Section. In the online chat after the programme was aired, Kirstie said she had a Janome machine at home for her personal use! Way to go Kirstie!!!!
Of course, we had our new Horizon Memory Craft 12000 on the stand, which was busily showing people fabulous big embroideries in its Grand Hoop (11.9" x 9.1"!!). Click on the photograph to go to my You Tube Channel and see some little videos of the machine in action.
Jennie Rayment, star of Justhands-on.tv was running mini make and take workshops making gorgeous Christmas Stockings on the Janome CXL301.
All the ladies were having a great time playing with our computerised sewing machine..and making a pretty little stocking to take home as well! The CXL301 has some beautiful stitches to embellish craft project.

Please follow the following links for more information....
White Rose sewing and Craft Centre, Harrogate
Horizon Memory Craft 12000
Janome sewing Machines

The Cotton Patch recommends Janome 1600PQC to use with their Gracie Quiliting Frame!

2011-11-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Cotton Patch are well known for their Gracie Quilting Frames for many years. Recently they have become a stockist for the Janome 1600PQC long arm straight stitch machine to use with their quilting frames. In the photograph below you can see the "Grace Plastic Pattern Perfect" this is the grey template you can see on the table below the frame. This is so clever to keep your quilting in the correct pattern! Click the photograph to take you to You Tube and watch a small video.
While I was at The Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace in October, I took a couple of mini videos so you can see the wonderful combination of the Gracie Quilting Frame and the Janome 1600PQC, and the Gracie Sure Stitch, which is a stitch regulater. Just click either of these photographs to take you to my You Tube channel.For more information Gracie Quilting Frames and all the other quilting fabrics and accessories The Cotton Patch supply, check out their website, Facebook and Blog.

Jill Denton runs Mini Bunting Workshop @ Alexandra Palace!

2011-11-10T05:47:00.000-08:00

Jill Denton is a Textile Artist who specialises in gorgeous felt wearables, such as scarves and hats. Above is one of her textured pieces from her online Gallery. Click the image to go to her website to see more.During the Knitting and Stitching Show, JIll was teaching a fun workshop on making mini bunting on our fabulous CXL301 machine. The quick and easy workshop is ideal to learn a new skill and have a play on a new sewing machine at the same time.
You can see from the smiley faces... everyone in having a lovely time!
For many, this was the first time using a computerised sewing machine, and they found it so simple and easy to use.
The CXL301 is our entry level computerised machine and has 30 built in stitches, including one step buttonholes! For more information on Jill Denton and her felt making workshops, go to her website and blog.
For more information on the Janome CXL301 contact your local stockist or have a look at the full details on Janome.co.uk

The New Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 has been launched!!!!

2011-11-07T05:11:00.000-08:00

At long last the new Janome top of line sewing and embroidery machine has arrived! And, believe me, it is worth the wait!
The Horizon Memory Craft 12000 has so much to offer, from over 300 hundred built in embroidery designs, and four hoops to embroider them out on at up 1000 stitches per minute! The largest hoop being 230mm x 300mm, that's 9" by nearly 12"!!
Over 400 built in sewing and decorative stitches... to 9mm width!!
Easy Pivoting with Auto Presser Foot Lift!
Ten built in lights, and easy needle plate conversion, variable zig zag for free machine embroidery!
Horizon Link software program for your computer which allows you to do all your editing on your laptop and then send via a direct link cable!
The embroidery arm still works to the back on the machine, and packs away neat and compact when not in use. For the full features list please click HERE and go to our main website.
And now, for a behind the scenes look at our preparation for our grand veiling at Alexandra Palace Knit and Stitch exhibition in October.....
When we launch any new machine, but especially a new top of line machine, all the staff involved need to get to know the machine inside out... we live, breath and eat the machine for weeks so we are fully confident to show you everything you ask us!
As much of our sewing work is done in the evening, after normal working hours are over, one of the best features about this machine came in very useful, the lighting. Ten lights in total, and a retractable High Light. This gave clear lighting all night long!
The light retracts back into the machine when you are not using it, and their is also a AcuView Magnifier to help see stitching around the needle. (this isn't in the photograph).
Over 400 stitches... just fabulous! All the decorative stitches are 9mm wide and the buttonholes can be customized as well to 9mm. Many of the stitches are brand new, and some of my favourites are the hand look stitches.
All Janome staff who will be working at the customer launch of the Horizon Memory Craft 12000 at Alexandra Palace, make samples on the machine, this helps us to learn the machine, and creates some wonderful inspiring pieces for display on the stand.
One of the pieces I created, was a draft excluder, using the gorgeous Babushka design of the 12000 and some of the fabulous 9mm decorative stitches. There are three Babushka designs built into the machine, I took these into Digitizer MBX and re-sized so I had eight dolls. The "Once in a small Russian town. there lived a woman called Babushka", is embroidered using one of the new fonts in Digitizer MBX, "Run Cardigan".The stitches above the Babushka designs are some of the new Hand Look Embroidery stitches, they are quite heavy looking and simulate embroidery done by hand with stranded thread.
I embellished the yellow fabric with rows of 9mm decorative stitches, and the Ric Rac finished the look!
The Babushka Draft Excluder looked great on the Horizon Memory Craft 12000 display, along with other samples made by Maureen Brown and various Janome Experts. (freelance textile artists, quilters etc).
The other sample I created for the Horizon Memory Craft 12000 display was a clasp handbag with a gorgeous big embroidery! This clasp was purchased from U-Handbag, who sell everything you need to make stunning bags.
I used one of the biggest embroidery designs on the machine, and using Digitizer MBX, I edited the design and added an extra 3 roses and leaves to give the design a better shape to fit my bag design. Here, you can see me embroidering the extra Roses and I used the tacking feature within embroidery to help hold the fabric in place. I am really pleased with the finished bag, and I can't wait to get chance to use it one day!

The handbag was displayed with other Horizon Memory Craft 12000 samples. Ruth Cox, our Southern Regional Sales Manager, made the Lingerie Bag using the Cross Stitch Alphabet, and the corset bodice with lace butterfly designs off the machine.
We had a wonderful time at the Knitting and Stitching Show, and as you can see, we were very busy!
Everyone loved the new Horizon Memory Craft 12000, and the feedback we recieved was very exciting. I can't wait to see what some of the first people to buy the machine will make on it!
Since the Alexandra Palace Knitting and Stitching Show, selected stockists have had Horizon Memory Craft training at Janome Head Office. The machine is now available to buy through selected shops. To find your local Horizon Memory Craft 12000 dealer, please contact our Head Office on 0161 6666011.

Richard from S Nutt Sewing Machines in Birmingham runs charity marathon!

2011-09-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Make a Wish is a charity that helps to create magical wishes to children and young people with life threatening illnesses.
Richard from S Nutt Sewing Machines, also runs and teaches at Sutton Schools of Tae Kwon-do. They are running a marathon on Saturday 24th September 2pm - 6pm at Bishop Walsh School, in support of Make a Wish Charity.
So why not pop over to the website and offer them support.

Good luck from Janome to all the runners!

****************UPDATE*******************

Richard and all the team raised a fantastic £7067.47!!!! Below you can see Jane handing over the cheque!

This is now paying to send a little three year old boy to Florida.

Congratulations to everyone who supported such a good cause!
For more information, check out http://www.suttontkd.co.uk/ and http://www.make-a-wish.org.uk/

Dionne Swift @ Festival of Quilts 2011

2011-09-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

During the Festival of Quilts back in August Dionne Swift was running Mark Marking Workshops using the Janome embellisher FM725. Dionne has sent me a few photographs to share with you and a few words...
"The lovely ladies of the Making you Mark workshop created experimental surfaces using Janome 725 embellishers at the Festival of Quilts Workshop Academy. They admitted to being slightly out of their comfort zones at first, but soon got into their stride and the machines were buzzing away around the room!For many this was their first try using an embellisher & others had had a machine at home put didn’t realise its full potential.It was a great afternoon, rounded off my a flurry of applause...blush blush!

...I was in your embellisher class and truly loved it - many thanks Carol"

Dionne Swift runs regular workshops from her studio just outside of Huddersfield, and can be seen exhibiting and running short workshops at many of the sewing shows around the UK. For more information, check out her website, www.dionneswift.co.uk or why not follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

Janome launch Horizon Memory Craft 12000 in Orlando!

2011-09-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 3rd September, the new Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 was launched at the Janome Institute at The World Marriot Resort in Orlando, Florida. Hundreds of Janome dealers from around the globe had been invited to see the unveiling of this fantastic new machine, and none of them were disappointed with what they saw! From the UK we took a selection of our best stockists, including Couling Sewing Machines, Cresswell Sewing Machines, Exeter Sewing Centre, Hobkirks, Sew Creative, Sew Devine, Sewing Machines Direct / SM Sewing Machines and Woking Sewing Centre. The Janome Institute 2011 took over the conference centre at the World Marriot Resort, and hosted numerous workshops for dealers to learn more about Janome products, from technical training, machine training, embroidery design software, accessories and overlockers, to lectures on Sales and Marketing and working with social media.....

.... and of course, the new Horizon Memory Craft 12000! Our new top of line machine is stunning...huge 11" sewing arm, 9mm wide stitches and big embroidery hoops! The machine is launched to the public on the 1st October, and to see the Horizon Memory Craft first in the UK, come and visited our stand at the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace 6th -9th October.... and prepare to be impressed!!! To see more about the new features, check out it's very own website www.HorizonMemoryCraft12000.com

Anne White, our Janome UK Educator, taught some creative classes during the Institute, including Circular Sewing Kit, using the Circular Attachment and the Bias Binding Foot, and also Janome Banner using some Janome Applique techniques.

Sham from SM Sewing Machines / Sewing Machines Direct, and Ian from Sew Devine, really enjoyed their time in Florida, and can be seen here enjoying one of many Janome lectures.
Jim, from Woking Sewing Centre and Graham from Cresswell Sewing Machines, had a wonderful few days in Orlando, and can be seen here having a look around the Janome Exhibition.... .....before heading off to another Service Course, this time overlockers!It's not all work during the Janome Institute for our stockists, Janome UK hosted a fabulous evening just for the UK dealers to get together and discuss the new machine... as well as enjoy a few glasses of wine! Above, we can see (from left to right) Ruth Cox, Janome Regional Sales Manager, Pam and Lisa from Sew Creative, Anne White, Janome UK Educator, David and Janet from Exeter Sewing Centre, and Carol and Stephanie from Couling Sewing Machines.

And lastly, a photograph of Anne and I during the lauch evening of the new Horizon Memory Craft 12000. We are all smailes at the thought of our new machines waiting for us when we get back to the UK! And with that note, I need to sign off and get back to my 12000.... lots of gorgous samples to make for the UK launch at Alexandra Palce in a few weeks time!

For more information, check out the following links,
on the new Horizon Memory Craft 12000
Janome Sewing Machines and to find a local stockist.
Couling Sewing Machines in Lincoln
Cresswell Sewing Machines, Mansfield Rd, Nottingham. NG5 6BH
Exeter Sewing Centre in Exeter
Hobkirks in Blackburn and Bury
Sew Creative in Cambridge
Sew Devine in Reading
Sewing Machines Direct / SM Sewing Machines in Wrexham and London
Woking Sewing Centre in Surry

Heirloom Quilt made on Janome Horizon and MC11000SE

2011-08-22T01:59:00.000-07:00

I'm sure many of you know it was The Festival of Quilts at the NEC last week... The biggest Quilt Show in Europe!
The Janome stand always has a wonderful range of samples on display, using various techniques and sewing machines from our range. Many are made by experts who specialise in their chosen field, from patchwork and quilting, felting, embroidery, (free machine and computer generated). Many are also made by our own Janome staff, who are dedicated sewers themselves. The samples are to inspire your own sewing projects and to suggest different ways to make the most from your Janome machines.
Last year, Pauline Ineson, created a huge amount of interest with her Heirloom Quilt, and I couldn't help myself, but I had to buy her book "How to Create an Heirloom Quilt".
So for Festival 2011, I decided to make an Heirloom Quilt inspired by Pauline's gorgeous work. The quilt in her book would have been way to large to have on display on the Janome stand, and to be honest, would have taken me too long to make! So, I used her book as inspiration to create a smaller lap quilt, using some of her ideas and my wonderful Janome Horizon... and a bit of help from my MC11000SE!
I took lots of photographs during the making of my quilt, so you can be inspired to try something similar yourself at home.
As I wanted an heirloom and vintage feel to my quilt, I made it using 100% silk in ivory and a very pale creamy beige, and embellished them with neutral threads of white, cream, and pale beige.

Firstly, to embroider the centre pieces for my crazy patchwork blocks. I used a selection of designs from the Janome White Work Embroidery Card, and embroidered ivory thread on ivory silk using my Janome MC11000SE.

I wanted the quilt to be blocked in a crazy patchwork style, but I wanted each piece to be highly embellished with decorative stitches, techniques, threads, ribbon and lace. This took quite a while!
Using the Border Guide Foot which is included with the Horizon, I did row upon row of decorative stitches from all of the Modes (different menu's of sticthes) on the Horizon, from Decorative, Heirloom, quilt, to Long and Play stitches. The Border Guide Foot helps to keep your rows of stitching straight, so it was perfect for this project!

Using ribbon and stitch no.59 and no.60 , gives a gorgeous ribbon slot effect.Look at all the rows of scrumptious stitches!! There is Twin Needle work, Wing Needle in there somewhere! If you have never used a Wing Needle, it looks like a normal needle with wings, and created holes in your fabric to create a Victorian Drawn Thread Work effect. Try with the stitches in your Heirloom Mode and see what you like!Using the Blind Hem Foot and moving the needle position over to the left, you can create neat and parallel pin tucks.
And, using the Border Guide Foot again to keep my lines straight and paraellel, I sewed the pin tucks in to different direction to create more interest.
Once all the pieces where embellished, they were then crazy patch worked around an embroidery design. I liked the idea of incorporating my initial into one of the patches... either H for Heidi or Horizon!
When using the crazy Patchwork techniques, each seam is embellished with more decorative stitches.Then sashing is added between the blocks and the patchwork part is done complete. The Crazy Patchwork panel is now tacked to a piece of cotton batting.

Using the Convertable Free Motion Foot on my Horizon, I free machine quilted on the sashing panels only. The height of this style foot can be altered to float on the surface of my quilt, ideal for projects where you have different thicknesses of fabric. (You can also buy this style foot for other Janome machines, have a look HERE for more details).
Using the Acufeed Ditch Foot, I stitched in the ditch with more decorative stitching.
The Janome Horizon has an 11" sewing area, making quilting projects so easy!
I then bound the edge of my quilt with silk bias binding using the Quilt Binder Set, which has been designed to allow for the thickness of wadding to pass through it.
And I'm finished just in time to pack my suitcase and head off to set up the stand for the show! I would love to hear your comments and stories if you have made your own heirloom quilt! Feel free to comment below.
To find out more about Janome Quilting Machines, have a look at website www.janome.co.uk
To see our machines at a sewing exhibition near you soon, check out this page.

Janome Horizon and Freestyle Quiling Frame

2011-08-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

Freestyle Quilt frames love to use the Janome Horizon.
At the Festival of Quilts I had a little try of the frame, and it feels so light and easy to use! I thought I would take a short video so you can see it in action. For more little films on Janome machines, check out Heidi Loves Sewing Channel on You Tube.

For more information on the Janome Horizon have a look at our main website, and check out Freestyle Quilt Frames HERE.

Festival of Quilts 2011

2011-08-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

Festival of Quilts @ NEC 11th - 14th August 2011

It's that time of year again, when everyone, who is anyone displays and exhibits at the biggest quilt show in Europe! And of course, Janome is here to help inspire your quilting projects, and find the best sewing machine for your quilting needs. The Janome Horizon continues to be the most popular long arm machine for quilters, and the little portable JP760 is ideal for patchwork and quilters to take to workshops.

Janome works with many patchwork and quilters, and we are proud to display experts work and wish to thank them for all their support, plus many samples made by the wonderful staff at Janome UK.
Exhibitions are the perfect place to see (almost) the full range of Janome machines, from entry level machines, computerised, specialist quilting machines, to automatic embroidery machines and design software, and not forgetting overlocks and coverstitch machines.

Janome sponsor the Contemporary Quilt Competition, and this gorgeous applique quilt won. This one was one of the quilts that caught my eye... all made from hand knitting and then patched together! Isn't it fabulous!
For more information on the Festival of Quilts and dates for next year, check out Twisted Threads website, and you can follow them on Facebook too.

Summer Specials @ Hobkirks!

2011-08-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

Hobkirks, in Blackburn and Bury have taken delivery of new summer fabrics! "We have 90+ bolts of brand new now in!!! The complete tonal collection offers a full spectrum of colour to both beginners aswell as the seasoned quilter! 100% cotton guaranteed. Prints inspired by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Call in for details and special offers!"

HUGE range of dressmaking patterns: (especially summer dresses because of the lovley
weather we're having!!)

They are also offering 10% OFF all needles including domestic and industrial until the end of July!!

Start ordering NOW to make use of this great discount!

Hobkirks have recently refurbished their 1st floor and now have a dedicated classroom which can host up to 12 students, with of course, Janome machines. Check out this LINK for details of their workshops.

For more information... check out their website www.hobkirks.co.uk

Summer Childrens Sewing Classes @ IN2Fashion!

2011-08-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

IN2Fashion Sewing Courses for Children and Teens!!!

Have fun and learn how to make fashionable Clothes and Accessories. Courses take place during school holidays in their Lincoln studio.

IN2Fashion for Children and Teens

IN2Accessories: Fabulous Fascinators

Make a fun and Fabulous Fascinator for a school Prom or party.

Date: August 1st

Time: 10am to 2pm

Fee: £20

Materials and refreshments included but please bring a snack for lunch.

IN2Fashion for Children

IN2Sewing Course: Decorative T-Shirts

Date: August 16^th

Time: 10am to 2pm

Fee: £20

Materials required: Plain T-Shirt

Refreshments available but please bring a snack for lunch.

IN2Fashion for Teens

IN2Sewing Course: Fashion Shorts

Date: August 22nd

Time: 10am to 3pm

Fee: £25

Materials required: 1.1/2 metres Cotton fabric

Refreshments available but please bring a snack for lunch.

_________________________________________

Booking required as limited places available

Book online at www.in2fashionsewingcourses.co.uk

Sewing Classes are launched in Darlington!

2011-07-12T05:21:00.000-07:00

The Singer Shop in Darlington is long established and been the centre for sewing in the local area for years.Owned and ran by Mum Joan and Son Stuart, in the last year the whole building has had a complete re-refurbishment. See my earlier post about how much the building has been renovated.
The light and airy shop has plenty of space to show you lots of Sewing Machines, Janome of course, also a huge selection of haberdashery, sewing accessories and patchwork fabrics.
The rooms above the shop have been converted into a boutique Guest House, The Old Tailor, namely so, as the premises used to be used as a Tailors Workshop many moons ago. When the renovation where taking place, Stuart and Joan tried to save as many original features as possible, so not to lose the character of the building. Not only are the rooms above a Guest House, but during the day, the large kitchen / dining area becomes a classroom for running sewing workshops. Plan are to run residential courses, so you everything will be under one roof. The class programme starts in September, and places are filling up fast!
For more information on the Singer Sewing Shop and buying sewing machines, habby, fabrics etc, follow this link to UK Sewing Website and Facebook page.
For The Old Tailor Guest House, see their website and Facebook page.
For the sewing workshops and other classes ran in the old tailors rooms, follow this link to www.wakeymakey

The new cafe that is just oh sew stylish | Manchester Evening News - menmedia.co.uk

2011-07-12T03:57:00.000-07:00

The new cafe that is just oh sew stylish | Manchester Evening News - menmedia.co.uk

New Sewing Cafe opens in Birmingham!

2011-07-12T03:42:00.000-07:00

Sheila-May opened the Birmingham School of Sewing in 2010, to share her knowledge of dressmaking, tailoring, bridal, and lingerie. Sheila-May has huge experience of the bridal business and has designed and made wedding dresses for many years. Birmingham School of Sewing offers a wide range of sewing classes, including soft furnishings, alterations, dressmaking, pattern drafting, corsets and knickers, tailoring and bridal. Also, regular workshops on getting to know your sewing machine and overlocker for beginners.
In August The Birmingham School of Sewing is opening it's doors every Tuesday and Sunday as a Sewing Cafe. The School has Janome sewing and overlock machines for you to use, on your unfinished sewing projects, or maybe something you have been meaning to start for ages.

The sewing cafe will be open every

Tuesday 10am - 4pm and Sunday 12 midday to 3pm.

As well as the machines, you will have access to large cutting table, and professional pressing equipment. So, if you are a beginner or have been sewing a long time... why not have a day out with some friends... get creative and enjoy free tea and coffee at the same time??
For more information, check out Birmingham School of Sewing website.

ESC (formally Elgin Sewing Centre) moves to new premises in Keith, Scotland!

2011-07-12T02:48:00.000-07:00

Elgin Sewing Centre was established in 1973, by Alan's Dad, in Elgin town centre. Since then Alan has taken over the business and moved the shop into Keith, a pretty little town about half way between Elgin and Aberdeen.On the 1st June this year, Alan moved premises again out of the town centre, and into the retail area near the newly built Tesco. This give customers, easy free parking directly outside the shop, ideal when collecting heavy machines. The shop is a sewing tardis, and it may look small from the outside...but stocks everything you need to keep your sewing running smoothly!
From a good range of Janome Sewing and Overlock machines, from £99 - to the top of the range MC11000....
To every sewing, quilting and embroidery thread....
to a fabulous selection of haberdashery and sewing accessories.
Alan is a fully trained sewing machine mechanic, and is happy to service and repair any make or model of machine. He looks after all the schools accounts in the North of Scotland, and over the summer months will be found behind piles of schools machines in for their annual service!
For more information, check out ESC Website, or why not pop in next time your in town... his new shop is
UNIT 1, 4 WESTERTON ROAD SOUTH, KEITH, BANFFSHIRE. AB55 5FH

Sewing Workshops in Woverhampton with Brewers Sewing Machines

2011-07-12T01:54:00.000-07:00

In June, Debbie Harper, seen on the left, started her sewing and craft classes at Brewers Sewing Machines in Wolverhampton. Debbie has years of experience is sewing and can turn her hand to dressmaking, soft furnishings, patchwork and quilting and also free machine embroidery. Julie, above, had never tried free machine before... and this was her first attempt.. hasn't she done well!

Janome Sewing Machines are available for you to use on the classes, which are running weekly, in the classroom above the shop on Dudley Road.

Kathleen, see here on a Janome event in the classroom last year, owns and runs the shop with her husband Alan. Kathleen has always been a sewer herself and what Alan doesn't know about the inside of a sewing machine, isn't worth knowing! Brewers Sewing Machine stocks a huge range of Janome sewing and overlock machines, and is happy to service and repair and make, model or age of machine.

Contact the shop for more details on the workshops, or why not follow them on their Facebook page, and have a look at their website for more information.

A busy day in the Isle of Man!

2011-06-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Last week I had a flying visit to the Isle of Man... I was only there 24 hours and we worked all day to fit in as much as possible!

Joan's Wool and Craft opened in 1974 and is now ran by Joans' daughter, Christine. The shop has a mix of sewing and other crafts, including patchwork and quiliting, dress fabrics, haberdashery, knitting wool, craft kits and artists paints.... and of course, full range of Janome sewing machines.

In the morning we had a software training session for Digitizer MB and how to digitize lace, and using the Giga Hoop and Cloth Setter on the MC9700. We worked that hard, I forgot to take any photographs! After lunch we had a look at the Janome Horizon and a range of Janome accessories. Many of the staff at Joan's have Janome machines at home, but everyone wanted to have a go on the new Janome Horizon machine. Above I am demonstarting the new Quilt Binder Set, which allows you to quickly bind the edges of bulky quilts. Check out this blog post for more information on the Quilt Binder Set.

Once I ran through the features of the Horizon, it was time to get hands on and have a go! And no-one was disapointed!

While they were playing on the machine, I had a quick look round the shop.... full range of haberdashery and fabrics... and loads of other crafty goodies! Well worth a visit!!

Joan's Wools and Craft can be found in Village Walk in Onchan, there is a free car pack, so you can spend as long as you like having a look around.

For more information, have a look at their website here, a give them a call on 01624 626009.

Fancy a new machine.. you can see both vintage and new @ Lestan Sewing Machines!

2011-06-15T03:15:00.000-07:00

Lestan Sewing Machines is in Nelson, Lancashire and only a short distance from the famous Pendle Hill. Bryan and Kim own and run the business and have years of experience in the trade. Bryan is a fully trained technician and can service or repair any domestic or industrial machine, just give him a call for a quote.

Whether you are looking for a vintage sewing machine, to give you clothes or craft sewing that extra vintage feel....

Or a new Janome sewing machine, Bryan and Kim have a range of both to show you. From basic to computerised machine embroidery... just pop in and have a look and a demonstration.

For more information on Lestand Sewing Machines, check out their WEBSITE, TWITTER or FACEBOOK page.

New Embroidery Studio in Derbyshire.... White Peak Embroidery!

2011-06-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

Do you enjoy of spot of hand embroidery? Or maybe cross stitch, tapestry? and how about a nice drive into the Derbyshire Dales and finish with gorgeous homemade cakes and tea?? Well, I might have just the thing.... White Peak Embroidery opened last week, and can be found on the main road through Darley Dale. Ann, who also owns and runs Heirs and Graces (only a few doors down the road) has always had a passion for sewing, and started her quilting business when the children were small. Heirs and Graces has a reputation for quality, and has a huge selection of patchwork fabrics, along with everything you need to become a top class quilter! Her husband, John, also runs The Complete Knit in Matlock... a heaven for hand knitters.

White Peak Embroidery (and tea room) has been one of Ann's dreams for a long time, and when the right premises became available, Ann jumped at the chance to make it reality. From the minute your about to walk through the door, handmade gifts and the vintage style of the shop are inviting you inside.

The Tea Room part of the shop will be opening soon... Ann gave me a sneak preview of vintage tables, chairs, cups and saucers she's been buying, along with antique sewing machines for display. This will be a ideal place to relax after your shopping... or park the other half while your shopping!

Once inside, the beautiful light shop has lots to offer, from your standard embroidery items to the most specialist fabrics, threads, ribbons and embroidery backings.

Heirs and Graces, is literally a few door down on the same road, and less then a minutes walk between both shops. The building used to be an old Wesleyan Church and is full of character...

Ann has even used the old pews to display all her fabulous patchwork fabrics.

For more information on Heirs and Graces, visit their website Patchwork Direct... and why not pop in for a lovely cup of tea next time your in the area.

Kisco & The Fabric Guild in Leicester ....shop for Patchwork, Quilting and Janome machines!

2011-06-13T05:13:00.000-07:00

Graham Cresswell, seen below, has worked in the sewing trade since a young apprentice, and what he doesn't know about sewing machines... isn't worth knowing! His main shop is in Daybrook, just outside Nottingham city centre, but he also has a long history of working with the Fabric Guild and Kisco Fabrics to bring Janome machines to the patchwork and quilters in Leicester. He is usually at Kisco every Friday morning to help with your machine queries, sales and servicing.

Kisco is a heaven for patchwork and quilters, and carries a huge range of supplies, from patchwork fabric by the yard, to fat quarters, haberdashery, bag handles, books, wadding... and free tea and biscuits to refresh you after your shopping! (or park the other half while your shopping!)

Kisco is not open to the public like a normal shop, and you need to become a member, and then you will be offered certain dates to come and shop. Check out the full details here. Or buy from their online shop all year round.

Frank Nutt Sewing Machines in Kings Heath opens new sewing classroom with Claire Muir!

2011-06-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

Frank Nutt Sewing Machines was Established in 1985 by Frank Nutt, who is the 3rd Generation of Sewing Machine shops in the 'Nutt' family, both Frank Nutt and his son, James Nutt, work in the shop. They have extensive knowledge on everything regarding Sewing Machines and are both here to help with any enquiry.

Over the last few months they have been been renovating the rooms above the shop to become their new sewing classroom. Being a listed building, this has been a huge job... but the finished results looks fantastic! Frank and James took delivery of their new Janome TXL607 machines a couple of weeks ago, and their first class to be held in the new classroom, was Thread and Texture by Claire Muir last Thursday.

Claire, who can be seen on the left below, has a long successful background within embroidery and textiles, and trained at Bishop Otter College, Chichester, received a First Class Honours degree in Art and Related Arts, giving her the opportunity for a further year’s Postgraduate study in the Textiles Department of Glasgow School of Art.

She now has her own business creating gorgeous machine embroidered fascinators, corsages and flowers, runs regular workshops around the UK on machine embroidery and is happy to exhibit and talk about her work to Guilds and other societies. She has put together a selection of workshops running at Frank Nutts, where you can learn various techniques of free machine embroidery and learn how to make one of Claire's signature flowers. (I am a personal fan of Claire's work, and tried to go on one of her workshops a while ago... so I might be tempted to visit in this new classroom!)

The Texture and Threads workshop... does what it says on the tin! For the beginner or experienced free machinest, learn about how to work with different threads, tensions, needles, fabrics to create the most fabulous textures for your textile work.

Six Janome TXL607's in the classroom, mean you don't have to worry about carrying your machine into the class, and all materials are provided as well.

As you can see from the photographs, everyone had a wonderful time, and produced lots of samples to take home.

Check out these links for more information on Frank Nutt Sewing Machines, Claire's workshops and why not have a look at Claire own website and follow Frank Nutt Sewing Machines on facebook.

New Sewing Cafe in Hickley Opens... with Janome Sewing Machines!!

2011-06-02T03:04:00.000-07:00

When you think of Hinckley you may not think of the craft capital of Leicestershire, but with the arrival of The Sewing Cafe you may want to think again.
Born out of a desire for a social setting in which to indulge in their passion for Sewing Fay Hooper and Becky Owen (still in their 20’s - well only just!) set about creating The Sewing Café. Branded as a social sewing emporium you’ll be able to take part in sewing workshops, sew by the hour (like an internet café but with sewing machines), spoil yourself with a gorgeous range of fabrics, buttons and trims plus everything you need to get sewing.
The Sewing Cafe will also run social sewing session, which are all about enjoying sewing in a social setting, surrounded by other sewing lovers, to share projects, swap advice or simply share stories.
You’ll be able to bring along new or current projects and pick up some great tips from some savvy sewing experts, who will be on hand to help. You can make the most of one of 8 Janome CXL301 sewing machines, with a choice of 30 stitches, these are fantastic machines and if you’re not familiar with the model, don’t worry, a five minute demo and you’ll be on your way!
“We are both so exited about The Sewing Cafe, our aim is to make sewing as accessible and sociable as possible – we want to create an inspiring, relaxed environment” says Fay Hooper.
With the ever growing interest for ‘make do and mend’, a dramatic increase in Sewing Machine sales and a movement away from fast fashion towards creativity, there was no better time for these two like-minded friends to enter in to their first venture.

Both De Montfort University graduates it was important for both Fay and Becky to find a base in Leicestershire and with the help of The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (http://www.stwcharity.co.uk/), they’ve been able to find a home for The Sewing Cafe in Castle Street, Hinckley. The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity has given Fay and Becky the platform to launch The Sewing Cafe in a time of economic uncertainty, by providing an interest free loan.
"We wanted to bring The Sewing Cafe to our corner of Leicestershire, we’ve already had such a great response from the people of Hinckley and have only been open a couple of weeks!“ says Becky Owen.

The Sewing Cafe, 116 Castle Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1DD.
Facebook.com/thesewingcafe

Embroiderer's Guild Meeting @ Lutterworth 21st May 2011!

2011-05-23T05:37:00.001-07:00

On Saturday Briege, from the Coventry Sewing Centre, and myself visited the Festival of Stitch with the Lutterworth Embroiderer's Guild at Lutterworth College. As you can see it was a busy day! And the guest speaker was Jean Littlejohn..... can it get any better!!! The event included two sales and demonstration rooms, with Coventry Sewing Centre exhibiting Janome Sewing Machines and lots of other gorgeous stalls offering silks, threads, wools, and anything you'd need for your embroidery work.

The Janome FM725 embellisher was a hot favourite.... and everyone admired my red flower and vine scarf made with water soluble fabric and knitting yarn on the embellisher.

Briege was demonstrating the Janome Horizon, ideal for free machine embroidery with a extra big sewing space and super fast speed and strength. The DXL603 is an ideal light weight machine to carry to classes and workshops.

Three very happy Janome customers... who own between them two 350e, embroidery machines, a MC9700 and an Horizon! They also have the Janome embroidery software and arranged to do some training back at Coventry Sewing Centre later in the year.

The Embroiderer's Guild Competition was, as always, spectacular. The theme was "Celebration" and included some wonderful work.

Creative Bumble Bee had some gorgeous hand felted items.... I just love this scarf / necklace!

They had lots of felting supplies for sale, and also offer workshops to learn the technique, check out their website for more information.

Mulberry Silks is one of my favorite fabric suppliers, the quality and colour range is stunning.

For more information on Coventry Sewing Centre, go to their website. They sell the full range of Janome sewing, embroidery and overlock machines. They also run regular patchwork, quilting, dressmaking and sewing clubs, and you can often find special events with Jenni Raymond there!

For more information about finding an Embroiderer's Guild near you, go to their Website.

Embellisher Workshops @ Creative Stitches at Aintree Racecourse were a great success!!

2011-05-23T03:50:00.000-07:00

Debbie, from the Sewing and Knitting Centre in Southport ran daily embellisher workshops in the "Quick and Easy" area at Aintree Creative Stitches show this weekend. Debbie and her husband Ivan, also run regular embellisher workshops in Southport as well. Every workshop was buzzing with excitement... and people loved the quickness of producing gorgeous textures on the Janome embellisher.

Most hadn't used the embellisher before and loved it so much... they had to take advantage of the Janome Spring Promotion and order a machine there and then!

Embellishing or felting machines are a great way of using all your scrap fabrics and odd balls of knitting yarns that you have saved for years... you can recycle of woolly jumpers, bed blankets, chiffon scarves... and even add sweety wrapper and plastic vegetable mesh bags to add interesting textures. Debbie, and her husband Ivan, love to spin their own yarns which they then incorporate into their embellisher pieces. Find their yarn in their Folksy Shop Gardeners Rest and you can find them on Facebook

In the Quick and Easy embellisher workshop, everyone created a gorgeous ipod / mobile phone cover... and everyone was unique!

For more information on the Janome embellisher the FM725, have a look at Janome's website, and for more information on the Sewing Centre in Southport, embellisher and other workshops they run (including patchwork and quilting) check out their website HERE.

Creative Stitches and Hobbycraft @ Aintree Racecourse...Wendy Dolan.

2011-05-23T03:18:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Wendy for the first time on Friday at the Aintree Show, and what a pleasure it was too. When Wendy was setting up her stand on Thursday evening, she realised she had left at home her most important item for her to demonstrate with.... her sewing machine! Fortunately, Sue from the Sewing and Knitting Centre in Southport who was exhibiting Janome at the Show, had a spare Janome XL601 for Wendy to borrow. And, as you can see from the big smile below... she got on with her replacement machine just fine.
Wendy's is a wonderful textile artist, and her work is simply stunning. She trained in Art and Textiles while studying for a B.Ed. Degree in Brighton. Following a Diploma in Creative Stitched Textiles a few years later, she began to exhibit widely and sell her work through Craft Shows and Exhibitions.

Specialising in free machine embroidery and creative textiles, her work is delicate and detailed.

She runs regular workshops, courses and lectures in her local area of Sussex, and, is happy to travel further afield to teach.... and even offers a week long course in Spain!

Check out Wendy's website for more information on her work, workshops and courses. Wendy Dolan

Fancy a day out at the Races?? Or rather, Creative Stitches at Aintree Racecourse!

2011-05-20T02:47:00.000-07:00

This morning we opened the Aintree Creative Stitches and Hobbycrafts to queues of eager ladies (and a few gents).... wanting to find the latest sewing gadget, the best quilting and dress fabric, and of course have a little look at the Janome sewing and overlock machines! There are also lots of stall for bead work and card making... and anything crafty. Sue, from The Sewing and Knitting Centre in Southport is exhibiting the Janome machines, along with her daughter Debbie and Son in Law Ivon are on hand to help with all your sewing needs. They are also running daily embellish er workshops in the "Quick and Easy" area... come and check out stand D15 for more details.

They also have a selection of threads, sari yarns, and gorgeous fibres from Oliver Twists to tempt you and inspire some fabulous sewing projects!!

Fancy learning to Knit or Crochet? Find a club / workshop in your area....

2011-05-18T04:13:00.000-07:00

Knitting and Crochet are a very popular hobby, and although many of the traditional wool shops have closed down in the past few years, the best ones are still going strong, and there is a new style of wool shop opening in many city centres!!
My Mum first taught me to knit and crochet when I was about 5, although, I have to confess, I only managed a simple scarf and a crochet square blanket. But, I have to say, some of the gorgeous yarns are tempting me back to give it another try!Knitting and Crochet Clubs are a great way to learn, meet up with other people who love the hobby, and have a good natter, cuppa and cake at the same time! When I'm travelling around visiting my Janome Stockists, many of which sell wool and host weekly Knitting Clubs.... there's always so much laughter and giggles... I have to go and have a look and see what all the fun is about!

The Chesterfield Sewing Centre, who sells a fabulous range of knitting yarns (and Janome sewing machines), holds a Knitting Club twice a week on a Tuesday and Thursday 2pm - 4pm, at £2.50 per session including tea and biscuits and lots of help and advice, and also discount on wool after 10 sessions. Contact Carol (on the right) in the shop on 01246 232176 for more information.The Complete Knit (sister shop of Heirs and Graces Patchwork and Quilting in Darley Dale) in Matlock, is a specialist knitting shop and their Knitting Club meets every Tuesday and Thursday 10.30 - 1pm, from beginners to advanced, everyone's welcome... and of course enjoy and cuppa and a biscuit or two while your there! Call them on 01629 593700 for more information.
Knit Nottingham opened in September 2010. Eleanor and Liese, the shop owners, are devoted knitters, and wanted a yarn shop in the city centre that stocked a wide range of affordable yarn, provided a cheerful environment for experienced and beginning knitters, and gave local spinners, dyers, designers and craftspeople a venue for selling their goods. They run regular knitting clubs and workshops, so check out their website for more information. Or why not follow them on Facebook?.... they even have regular knitting meeting down the local pub.. can it get any better??

Another group that meets in the local pub is Knit & Knatter every Monday at The Royal Hotel in Bolton le-sands, 6.30 - 8pm. The pub lets them have the room for free so they all just buy a drink or two. (Now, there's a reason to have a glass of wine) With about 30 members, who don't all turn up every week, there's always someone to offer help and advice. You can take knitting, crochet and some ladies even do patchwork. It has a fabulous atmosphere and all the ladies have such a giggle. Knit and Knatter is organised by Helen from Etty-Lilly in Bolton le Sands, the most gorgeous craft, knitting and sewing shop, she also runs sewing workshops at the shop (and sells Janome sewing machines), so why not check her website for more information?

If you know of any knitting clubs in your area, please drop a comment below and we can add it to the blog!

Happy Knitting!

Would you like to make a Kate Middleton Bridal Gown??

2011-05-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Now, I'm sure all of you must have seen the wedding dress that everyones talking about??
Even people who I have chatted to, who didn't intend to watch the wedding of the decade... did... and more to the point... enjoyed it!Kate, or Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge wore the most gorgeous lace dress designed by Sarah Burton. The style was Grace Kelly esk, and after I did some research on Google, I found the lace was all made in the UK. One company based only a few miles from my home, Cluny Lace in Ilkeston, Nottingham still make Nottingham lace on old lace looms to old designs and patterns, click here to read more about Cluny Lace. Much of the lace on the dress was made by The Royal School of Needlework based at Hampton Court. Click here to read more about their involvement.
So, now we have read a little about Kate's dress.... would you like to make your own wedding dress? (of course, handmade lace from Hampton Court is optional!)
Alison Victoria from the School of Sewing in Ashby de la Zouch runs Bridal Dressmaking workshops several times a year.
Their most recent course was only a few weeks after the Royal Wedding, and knowing that the Royal Wedding would be such an influence on future Brides, Alison made a sample gown similar to Kate's dress to show some of the techniques used.

Alison's unique three day workshop teaches you all you need to know about the bridal business and the making of bridal wear, whether it be on a personal or professional level. The construction of the gown will be discussed in detail and samples will be made that relate to interlined couture boned bodices with a draped overlay, netted skirts, concealed zips, hemlines and much more.

No longer will the dress have wrinkly bodices or droopy skirts. You will also produce samples that relate to veils, and bridal favours. Information will be given regarding stockists and suppliers and pricing your gowns. This workshop is a must for all of those planning a wedding or those in the bridal business.

If you would like more information on Alison's dressmaking courses, please see her website for full information, or why not follow them on Facebook?

Why not have a look at the Cluny Lace website too?

Grimsby Sewing & Knitting Centre win Retailer Award!

2011-05-06T06:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Linda and Paul @ Grimsby Sewing and Knitting Centre for winning

BA AWARD FOR HOBBY CRAFT RETAILER 2011!!!!

A few words from The Lincolnshire Telegraph....
"Throughout the year, the Directors at Lincolnshire & South Yorkshire Telegraph select organisations that have best demonstrated a proven ability to go that extra mile in not only meeting but exceeding the needs of their clients. Therefore, in line with this philosophy, it gives us pleasure to announce Grimsby Sewing & Knitting has been selected to receive the BA AWARD FOR HOBBY CRAFT RETAILER 2011.

Based in the centre of Grimsby, Grimsby Sewing and Knitting are your one stop shop for all of your creative needs providing quality sewing machines, services and repair and a wide selection of fabrics and accessories.
The shop has been on site for over 27 years, we took over 3 years ago and expanded the
shop in August 2010, we are specialists in sewing machines and offer service and repairs
on most makes. We are the main stockist for the renowned Janome sewing machines in Grimsby and the North East Lincolnshire area.
We aim to be offering various courses + workshops on a wide range of craft and sewing activities – these will be happening later this year. Grimsby Sewing and Knitting pride themselves on providing an excellent high quality service to all customers both from their store and online via their eBay shop which can be found at www.stores.ebay.co.uk/The-Cotton-Reel.

Complementing their range of sewing machines, the company stock an excellent range of haberdashery items, knitting patterns and yarns, an extensive range of dance and stage fabrics, patchwork and quilting fabrics and lots of quilting accessories. In addition to this Grimsby Sewing & Knitting provide quality crafts and accessories such as furs, felts, fabrics, knitting machines (to order), buttons, threads, zips and more. Whether you’re looking to take up a new hobby and unleash your creative flair or simply are looking for a quality provider for
your creative needs then Grimsby Sewing & Knitting are just what you have been looking for.
Having been singled out to receive the BA AWARD FOR Hobby Craft Retailer 2011 serves as a distinguishing factor that ranks Grimsby Sewing & Knitting amongst the best in its field, as well as acting as a seal of approval to prospective clients. "

For more information visit http://www.grimsbysewingandknitting.com/ or find them on Facebook.

Embellisher Workshops @ Creative Stitches at Aintree Racecourse!

2011-05-03T06:11:00.000-07:00

Creative Stitches and Hobbycrafts visits Aintree Racecourse 20th - 22nd May, and have lots to offer crafters of all types. Sue, the Janome stockist from Southport, (The Sewing and Knitting Centre, London Street, Southport) will be exhibiting Janome sewing machines and also running Quick and Easy workshops on our embellisher, the Janome FM725.

They will be running daily at the show at 12.30 opposite Sue's stand at the back of the hall.

EMBELLISHING MADE EASY
With Debbie Nixon and Ivan Lee
Never used an embellisher before, then come along and let Debbie and Ivan from Sewing & Knitting Centre, show you how and make a mobile phone/ MP3 player cover –great for your holidays!

Sue, Debbie and Ivan have been busy making samples and preparing kits at the shop... and we can see one of the projects here half made... and look at all those gorgeous knitting yarns in the back ground as well!

For more information on the Sewing Centre, have a look at their website and pop onto the stand at Aintree and say hello!

The Living Threads Embroidery Group exhibit in Nottingham...

2011-05-03T04:27:00.001-07:00

The Living Threads is a textile group whose aims are to produce exciting and innovative work using fibres, threads, yarns, fabrics and beads in a variety of techniques.
The Living Threads Group was formed in 1982. It has evolved into a group of 65 artists.
An exhibition of members work is staged at Trent College, Long Eaton, Nottingham every two years.
Many of their artists pass on their enthusiasm, knowledge and skills through workshops which are held twice a year.
Last week I visited the exhibition at Trent College, and the range of work on display is simply stunning. Although, I wasn't allowed to take general photographs of the work on display, a couple of members gave me permission to take a few snaps for my blog.
Beverley Beatie, loves all things woolly! From knitting, wet felting and embellishing, and her textured work is gorgeous. Bev's love of wool, sparked her online business Knitting 4 Fun, where she also sells our felting machine the FM725. ... she also has a great Facebook page to keep up with the latest news and products.

Carol Hampton, who kindly spent a few minutes with me to tell me about the group and it's history, likes to work with textured fabrics and free machine embroidery.

And Marie Meacham, enjoys the machine embroidery to create the most wonderful wall hangings.

Much of the work on display is available to buy, and would be a great addition to any house.

For more information on the Living threads Group, click HERE to see their website.

The exhibition is running from 22nd - 30th April at Trent College in Long Eaton, Nottingham.

Fabulous Fabrics & School of Sewing Celebrate the Royal Wedding!!

2011-05-03T02:56:00.001-07:00

Did you enjoy the fabulous Royal wedding on Friday of William and Kate? I have to admit, I watched it all from about 8.30am.... and I had a tear in my eye several times during the day!I visited Alison Smith in Ashby de la Zouch on Thursday, and I just have to show you their wonderful wedding celebration window display! Union Jack fabric for the bunting....

with flowing red, white and blue satin ribbons and flowers...

and a stunning mock up wedding dress made from fabrics they sell in the shop.
and I managed to catch a quick photograph of Alison standing outside the shop while we enjoyed the summer sun!

Alison runs a Bridal Workshop which teaches you profession dressmaking skills to make your dress look gorgeous and stunning. Ideal if you are thinking of making your own bridal gown, or even a bridal dressmaker wanted to learn new ideas.

For more information on Alison Smith, click the link to The School of Sewing and Fabulous Fabrics, or why not follow them on Facebook.

Make It @ Glagow

2011-05-03T02:07:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, during my routine visit to Glasgow, I met up with the lovely Ashley who is the creator and owner of Make It. You may have heard about them in the sewing press, Ashley, who has always loved to create and make, set up her sewing cafe and workshops... and generally very gorgeous studio space towards the end of 2010, and it has gone from strength to strength. Behind this door, is a wonderful space to be inspired and support to help you with your ideas and projects.

Ashley, seen here, has always loved sewing and crafts, and says "but found it time-consuming and uncomfortable to cut patterns and fabric on the living room floor. We figured other budding stitches might have exactly the same problem so we set up a space to work on your own projects and have some fantastic coffee and cake at the same time." and Make It was born!

You can't help, but feel at home the minute you walk in. There is a big working table for cutting out projects and clean and tidy sewing machine area (with of course Janome machines)...

and a comfortable sofa area to enjoy a cuppa and cake, or do a bit of hand stitching or knitting.

You can hire an area to work on your own projects, they charge £5 for one hour, £7.50 for two or £10 for three including use of the cutting space, dress forms, press and the other bits and pieces of sewing equipment. They have sharp cutting scissors, pins, coloured thread and chalk available too. If sewing's not your thing, there's also have a Singer double bed knitting machine and an Ashford Traveller spinning wheel on site too.

If your not ready to work on your own projects, Make It also run regular sewing workshops and classes, from Basic Sewing Techniques, Learn to Knit & crochet to making a skirt or apron.

To find out more information on Make It, using their sewing cafe or workshops, check out their website, or why not follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Special Spring Offers @ Janome!!!

2011-04-26T05:24:00.001-07:00

Are you looking to buy a new sewing machine or overlocker?

Well, now is a great time to buy with Janome! We are currently running of Sewing with Style Spring Promotion and there are some fantastic free gifts and discounts on our machines. If you click on the images, you can have a look at our great deals.... and also some of our wonderful Janome stockists from all over the UK.

For full information on our Janome sewing machines, please have a look at http://www.janome.co.uk/
and you can also find your local stockist, by looking at this page on our website.

Looking for inspiration...

2011-04-26T04:48:00.000-07:00

Anne-Marie Read teaches regular patchwork and quilting workshops all over the Lancashire area, including our Janome stockist, Hobkirks in Blackburn.
Last year, Anne-Marie could resist the new Janome Horizon long armed quilting machine (she came on one of my Horizon Test Drive events) and had to take one home with her! This is one of her quilts she has made on the Janome Horizon, isn't it just gorgeous! All the fabrics are hand dyed and painted with stencil creams before being stitched together.
For more information on the Janome Horizon - click here, and to why not have a look at Anne-Marie's workshops at Hobkirks.

Susan Briscoe visits Bridlington!

2011-04-26T03:20:00.000-07:00

Susan Briscoe is a well known textile artist and has written several books and teaches creative textile workshops around the UK. To see her full profile, check out her BLOG and WEBSITE. Susan is happy to travel to your quilting group and run classes just for you... on a huge range of patchwork and quilting techniques and fun workshops.

Recently, Susan visited Bridlington and Barbara from the Janome Sewing Centre in Bridlington attended her workshops and had a wonderful time!

John and Barbara are the main Janome agent in the area, and there shop is a haven for sewers of all types. Apart from Janome machines, they have a gorgeous selection of dress and craft fabrics, threads, buttons, trimmings and all kinds of haberdashery. So, if you fancy a nice day out to the seaside, and a bit of retail therapy... why not pop in? And if you get peckish... there's a fabulous Fish and Chip shop next door with the freshest fish you can find for miles!!

This is one of Barbara's creations and of course, all make on the Janome Horizon.... the best Janome machine for patchwork and quilting!

For more information on the Sewing Centre in Bridlington, visit them at 1, Queen Street, Bridlington or telephone on 01262 603057
Click HERE to see Susan's blog post about the Bridlington weekend and some of the wonderful quilts that were made.

Sew-ability takes delivery of new Janome CXL301 for their class room!

2011-04-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

Suzette Slattery has years of experience in the sewing trade and set up her Sewing School a few years ago in Sutton Coldfield. She runs Sewing Leisure Club, where you can sign up for a few sessions or a few weeks and make your choice of clothing, soft furnishings etc.

Sue, seen here on the right, has created a wonderful working space for her students, and everyone has their own large table space to work on. Ideal for cutting out big pattern pieces.
In the sewing machine room, there is a Janome CXL301 for each student to use, (no sharing and waiting for a machine to be available), also Janome overlockers, and plenty of irons and ironing boards.

Look at this lovely space to work in!

She also sells a range of fabrics, backings, interlinings, dress patterns and haberdashery. So nearly everything you need for your sewing is right there and on hand.

For more information on Sew-ability, contact Sue on suzette13@btinternet.com or call her on 0121 321 3002

Look what I found yesterday....

2011-04-11T02:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I went for a lovely Sunday lunch with all the family, and as I walked to my table .... I spotted some fabulous work on display. Oscar's Lounge and Restaurant has pieces on display from local artists from around the Calverton area (village north of Nottingham)... and I couldn't help myself, I had to get up and have a closer look! The work below is made by local fibre and textile artist Cheryl Herod. All hand felted and full of texture! (Although I didn't take wonderful photo's you can see me in the reflection of the glass!)

The three pieces sat perfectly against the pale sage wall....and I would have loved to take one home!

Cheryl is happy to undertake commissions and runs regular workshops. Please contact her cherylherod@gmail.com for more information

And why not visit Oscar's next time you are in the area! The food was superb and the venue... simply stunning!!

Fancy trying the Janome embellisher on Quick and Easy Workshops?

2011-04-11T01:49:00.000-07:00

The Sewing and Knitting Centre from Southport is exhibiting at The Creative Stitches and Hobbycraft Show at Aintree Racecourse 20th - 22nd May. Sue, who owns the Sewing and Knitting Centre will be running regular workshops showing you how to make a simple mobile phone case, with weird and wonderful textures using the Janome FM725 embellishing machine.

She will, of course, have a range of Janome machines on her stand for you to have a demonstration... and maybe fall in love and have to take one home!

For more information on Creative Stitches and Hobbycraft click HERE

and to see more information on The Sewing and Knitting Centre in Southport click HERE

Janome quilted banner takes pride place @ Hobkirks!

2011-04-08T04:41:00.000-07:00

Tatiana, Hobkirks resident sewer, has made this fabulous Janome banner for the Janome display area in the shop. Using the Janome Horizon quilting machine, Tatiana has used various quilting decorative and applique stitches, and of course the built in Acufeed to help with the quilting of the layers of wadding and fabric. I'm sure you'll all agree she has done a wonderful job! For more information on Hobkirks in Blackburn and Bury, check out their website Hobkirk.co.uk

Sandra Coleridge exhibits her work at Killerton House

2011-04-08T04:12:00.001-07:00

Sandra Coleridge is a Textile Artist that loves to work with her Janome FM725 (embellishing machine), and Janome Horizon to produce the wonderful textured pieces below. She runs regular workshops on the technique, please see her website for more information. Sandra is currently exhibiting at Killerton House, near Exeter, in "For the Love of Stitch" exhibition with the Kingcombe Embroidery Group. The exhibition has a wide range of work to see (and buy) from hand embroidery, machine embroidery (both free machines and digitized work) and various works using embellishing machines. From small gift cards to large wall hangings and framed work.

The venue is simply beautiful....

Just look at this gorgeous room!

Display table with small pieces of work.

The exhibition is running until the 2nd May at Killerton House, for more information visit their website.

New fabric arrives at Fabulous Fabrics!

2011-04-08T03:12:00.001-07:00

This week I have been to visit Fabulous Fabrics in Ashby de la Zouch.... and there new Spring fabric was filling the shelves.... it is so gorgeous... I had to share some with you! Look at the wonderful texture of this pink and black.... so unusual! Retro prints.... I love the buttons!

Stretchy embellished fabric.... ideal for evening wear?

More retro prints!

and more!

and more... I love the spots!!!

For more information on Fabulous Fabrics, check out their website HERE or follow them on Facebook?

To find a fabric shop in your area, look on this page of the Blog, or click on the Fabric Shops tab at the top of the page.

Win a Janome TXL607 to celebrate The Sewing Directory first birthday!!!

2011-04-08T03:00:00.001-07:00

To celebrate the one year anniversary of The Sewing Directory, Janome have provided a brand new sewing machine, so new that it is not even on the market yet! The Janome TXL607 (RRP.£499) is a fully computerised machine with over 400 stitch options including a 1 step button hole and alphabet. The machine is due to be released on May 1st. To enter the competition to win the TXL607 sewing machine you need to send The Sewing Directory a definition of a sewing term to add to their sewing glossary. This term must have been written by you and not taken from a sewing book or anywhere on the internet. They will be building a glossary created by the entrants to this competition on the siteFor more information on the TXL607, please see the Janome website HERE For all the details of The Sewing Directory competition, please go to their website HERE

Sewing for Pleasure - part 4

2011-04-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

Sheila May (on the right) owns and runs the Birmingham School of Sewing... and of course, has Janome machines in her class room. Her classes include patchwork, dressmaking, alterations, know your overlocker...

to more advanced workshops on corsetry, lingerie and bridal. ....

and advanced boned bodice class....

For full information on her courses and class list, check out her website

http://www.birminghamschoolofsewing.co.uk/

To find a sewing workshop in your area, check out Janome recommended class list

HERE

Janome @ Sewing for Pleasure

2011-03-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

As always, the Janome was buzzing with people looking for new sewing machines and checking out our ever changing samples for sewing inspiration.

The 6600p has been a popular machine since it's launch a few years ago, ideal for heavy weight sewing with it's strong motor and fast stitch speed, but wonderful for quilting with the extra big sewing space, and perfect for bridal and dressmaking alike.

Our FM725, commonly known as an embellishing machine, goes from strength to strength. This machine is all about surface decoration... and there are no rules! Ideal for using up old knitting yarns, scrap fabric, old jumpers and chiffon scarves.... and the range of wool and silk roving on the market is huge! Sandra Colleridge made the most of the samples on this display, and the bag on the bottom left is made by Sheila Smith, the well known author of Embellish, Stitch and Felt (where a couple of my embellisher makes are in there as well!)

Sue Munday is another Textile Artists who loves her Janome machines. This sample above was created using the MC11000SE, with designs she has created on our Digitizer MB software. Also mixing in free machine embroidery and a bit of embellishing... a real mixed piece.... I love it!

The Janome MB4, is a fully automatic four needle embroidery machine, ideal for those wanting to set up a small embroidery business from home. The range of hoops allows you to embroider little items easily, can you spot the little teddy t-shirt and beanie hat?

Our gorgeous Horizon has just celebrated it's one year birthday in the UK! It was first shown at Sewing for Pleasure in 2010. One of my personal favourites, this machine is wonderful for all types of sewing.... huge space for quilting, built in Acufeed (type of walking foot) for bulky fabrics, straight stitch needle plate converter for precision sewing, fantastic selection of contemporary decorative stitches for all your crafty projects! And a great looking machine as well!

Check out our website more information on Janome machines, and to see where we are exhibiting in your area... chick HERE.

Sewing for Pleasure - part 3

2011-03-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

The English Couture Company is based in Syston in Leicestershire, where Michelle runs sewing courses on dress making, from beginners classes, to advanced Speed Tailoring, Bra Making and Couture Boned Bodice. Check out her website for full details. Michelle uses Janome 6600p, the perfect machine for professional dressmaking. The speed and strength of an industrial type machine, but the control and stitch range of a domestic.

The English Couture Company also sells a full range of dressmaking and tailoring interlinings and accessories, check out the website for useful tips and video.

Sewing for Pleasure - part 2

2011-03-30T07:09:00.001-07:00

Sue Munday works with her Janome MC11000 to produce the most wonderful pieces of textile art. She mixes computerised embroidery with free machine embroidery and the embellishing machine. Sue runs workshops and offers talks to groups, please see her website for full details. http://www.suemunday.co.uk She also offers Distance Learning City and Guilds in Machine Embroidery, check out her website http://www.design2create.biz to find out more.

This piece of Sue's work was displayed on the Janome stand, and uses her own digitized designs, free machine embroidery and built in decorative stitches... all on the Janome MC11000.

Sewing for Pleasure - part 1

2011-03-30T05:49:00.000-07:00

It is always lovely to walk around exhibitions and see what people are creating and making on Janome machines.... and at Sewing for Pleasure last weekend there was lots to see.....and so much to tell you.... I will split it up into separate posts! Alison Smith from School of Sewing and Fabulous Fabrics was using the Janome MC11000 to make a gorgeous bra and knicker set.... and just look at the matching corset! Throughout the show, Alison was running dressmakers workshops, giving you the chance to learn how to put in a concealed zip and fabulous fabric roses and much more... check out the list HERE.

Alison's fabric shop, Fabulous Fabrics in Ashby de la Zouch, is a heaven for dressmakers... well worth a visit next time you are in the area!

Alison made Janome a wonderful quilted corset, using the MC11000 Acufil Quilting Designs, which was on display on our Janome stand.... what a great unusual way of using quilting stitches!

For more information on the Janome MC11000 and it's Acufeed Quilting features click HERE.

Follow the link for more information on Fabulous Fabrics and School of Sewing, and you can find them on Facebook.

and if you would like to visit Sewing for Pleasure next year, have a look at ICHF website.

We are set up and ready..... Sewing for Pleasure opens tomorrow morning!

2011-03-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

Have you got your ticket??

Sewing for Pleasure and Fashion and Embroidery runs from 24th - 27th March at the NEC. Two halls full of crafting goodies... and of course all our Janome machine, accessories and lots of samples to inspire you to keep sewing!

For more information, check out http://www.ichf.co.uk/sewingforpleasure/ and what the little video clip (and see if you can spot me )!!

Beautiful Baby Quilt by Jean Jones

2011-03-22T02:25:00.000-07:00

Last week I visited The Singer Sewing Centre in Whitley Bay, and had a wonderful surprise! Ann Wheeler, their Patchwork and Quilting teacher was running a workshop upstairs and Jean Jones was there as well. Why is this interesting I hear you ask? Well, they both bought a Janome Horizon at the Test Drive event I ran at the Centre last year! So I popped up stairs to say hello.

Jean had with her, the first quilt she had made on her new Horizon, so I thought I'd share it with you. Her first Granddaughter is due soon, Elouise on 7th April, and Jean has made her this wonderful quilt she will keep forever.
Lots of use of the Horizons quilting stitches....

and a lovely mix of hand embroidery... and the grass and flowers along the bottom are stitched using the Horizon... and so are the random hearts and flowers dotted around as well.

And finally finished off with a hand embroidered quilt label, that is embellished with more Horizon quilt stitches! Well done Jean... it's fabulous!!

For more information on the Singer Centre in Whitley Bay and their Patchwork and Quilting workshops, check out their website HERE.

The Sewing Box, Morpeth

2011-03-21T03:20:00.000-07:00

An Aladdin's cave for sewers and crafters!

The Sewing Box in Morpeth, may look small from the outside, but has loads to offer on the inside! Spread over three floors, they have dress, bridal and evening wear fabrics, patchwork and quilting, and every type of haberdashery you would ever need!

Of course, they stock Janome machines and overlockers, and on my visit this time, we looked at overlockers, which are perfect for many of the stretchy jersey and evening fabrics they sell.

Bespoke designer buttons, which I haven't seen anywhere else in the country! Gorgeous for a special outfit, or just to use for decoration!
Fabulous range of unusual trimmings....

New Spring printed lawn...

Tattered and Torn accessories and trimmings...

and bespoke bunting....

and a lovely range of patchwork and quilting materials.

For more information on The Sewing Box, check out their website. If you don't get chance to visit the shop, check out their online store HERE

Patchwork and Quilting Day at Samuel Taylor at Embsay Mill!

2011-03-11T06:11:00.000-08:00

This week I spent a wonderful day with a group of patchwork and quilting ladies (some advanced and some beginners) at Samuel Taylor's in Embsay near Skipton.

Samuel Taylors @ Embsay Mills is a fabulous place for crafters of all types of hobbies, of course, patchwork and quilting department (with the most wonderful fabrics!), Janome Sewing Machines, cross stitch and hand embroidery, knitting yarns and Oliver Twist decorative yarns and fibres, plus a huge department of card and scrapbooking paper crafts... and a class room which hosts regular workshops in many of the above! and when you've finished shopping... a coffee shop to enjoy a drink and homemade cakes... can life get any better??During our Patchwork and Quilting Accessory day, we looked at some of Janome Sewing Machines and discussed different P and Q features, such as the hand look quilt stitch (always a crowd pleaser!), straight stitch needle plates, crazy patchwork decorative stitches, and of course, all the accessories to help create a perfect quilt.

We started with the 1/4" Foot, as any patchworker knows, a 1/4" seam is so important, so this easy to fit foot as a guide down the side to "but" the edge of your seam to, and when using centre straight stitch, gives you a perfect 1/4" seam allowance.

And then onto the Ditch Foot, the guide of the foot sits in your "ditch" and helps keep your stitching in the ditch!
The Clear View Quilting Foot and Guide Set combines both the 1/4" foot and Ditch Foot in one... and it also has 1/8" and 1/4" red marking to help your piecing, and you can move your needle position within this foot to let you have a scant 1/4" seam.

We looked at the Acufeed system on the Janome Horizon machine, which is a built in even feed / walking foot / dual feed, and allows you to use a 1/4" Seam Foot, Ditch Foot or Open Toe Foot at the same time as having the Acufeed engaged, this is invaluable for patchwork and quilters. The Acufeed Feet will only fit the Horizon (7700QCP) and the 6600p.

Our other machines have the Janome Even feed Foot available, which helps to feed quilting layers of fabric through the machine and not pucker or slip. There is a standard foot Even Feed, and Open Toe Even Feed and a Convertible Even Feed which has both Standard and Open Toe options.
We also looked at the Darning Foot for free machine quilting and embroidery and the Convertible Free Motion Foot Set (which can be seen above), this has three feet options, a small circle, a horse shoe shape or the clear round plastic with 1/8" markings to help when stippling your quilt.

For more information on Samuel Taylor and workshops they run at Embsay Mills, check out their website. Click on Crafts.

To see if we are running a Janome event in your area, keep checking our Events page on the Janome.co.uk website.

Fancy trying Millinery??

2011-03-08T06:08:00.000-08:00

There is a growing trend for wearing gorgeous hats and fascinators, just look at Kate Middleton last week in St. Andrews!
How about turning your hand to millinery and making your own headwear?Hats on Heads in Lincoln, design and make bespoke millinery for weddings, Ascot and special occasions. They also run IN2Fashion courses and workshops at their Lincoln Studio, of course with Janome Sewing Machines (courtesy of Couling Sewing Machines in Lincoln). Just look at their beautiful workroom! They run a range of IN2Fashion Sewing Courses for adults and children including Beginners Dressmaking, Dressmaking, Pattern Cutting, Corsetry, Fabric Jewellery, Textiles,Millinery and Hat making Hen Days. Classes for IN2Dressmaking for Teens have made fun and fashionable skirts, and also simple wrap skirts with 8 to 11 year olds. For more information on their bespoke millinery service and their workshops, check out their website Hats on Heads.

The Textile Workshop in Sherwood, Nottingham, runs various craft related courses, from one day special workshop on feltmaking and embellishing, to courses running courses over several weeks on millinery, dressmaking, silversmithing and much much more! And.... I've got the hat making bug myself and recently signed up for their weekly millinery class!

Why not follow The Textile Workshop on Facebook?