_A hem is defined as a finishing technique for a garment (pants, skirts, etc).  Three basic forms of hems can be used in the process of constructing garments:  turned-up edge, faced edge, and enclosed edge.  The most common technique used is the turned-up edge hem.  After the hem is constructed, the following criteria should be met:  1) the garment should hang on the body in a uniform and even manner; 2)the hem should be free of bulk, and 3)the hem should be concealed from the eye unless used for decorative purposes.  The following tutorial outlines the steps associated with constructing a blind machine hem sample that can be used as a guide for integrating this technique into a garment. 
blindmachinehem.pdf
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Missing a hook and eye from a skirt or pair of pants?  Need to replace a button or snap?  Here are two tutorials that will help you successfully mend your clothing and extend the life of your favorite pair of pants!
Fasteners
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Buttons
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Look for your favorite pattern designer's latest pattern and create a new bag for Spring with beautiful fabrics!  I guarantee people will be asking you where you got your bag... and you can say, I made it myself! 
Bag featured in photo:  Amy Butler's Hobo Bag
Fabric Featured:  Joel Dewberry's Ginseng Collection

Grab your needle and thread and start sewing!
 
 
Ever wonder what the symbols on the tags in your clothing mean?  The Federal Trade Commission developed a language for clothing that is an international standard for clothing care.  Below is a chart that you can print, use, and share!  Happy cleaning!
Care Symbols
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Stain Removal Basics
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The elements of design provide the foundation for all good design, whether it is fashion or housing and interior design.  Here is a printable overview on the elements of design.
Elements of Design
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Ever wonder how the Principles of Design apply to clothing design and selection?  Here is an overview of the Principles of Design that can be downloaded, printed, and used for educational or personal purposes!  Enjoy!
Principles of Design
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Here is a tutorial on how to create a pin cushion that looks like a cupcake!  Enjoy!
Cupcake Pin Cushion
File Size: 2918 kb
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A simple tutorial on how to make a hacky sack out of an old sock!
Hacky Sack
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Use this tutorial to guide you in the process of sewing a creative bag out of an old tank top!
Tank Top Purse
File Size: 8860 kb
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Here is a great tutorial on how to take leftover scrap fabric and turn it into a fantastic scarf!  Grab your needle and thread and start sewing!
Scrap Scarf
File Size: 9099 kb
File Type: pdf
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