Owl and Sewing Cat blog

How to share photos with us on Facebook

2012-10-17T10:48:00.000+01:00

We absolutely love it when our customers share pictures of their projects with us on the Owl and Sewing Cat Facebook page. However, some people have come to us saying they are not sure how to do this so here is a very quick tutorial.

On our page find this box, up on the top left hand side.

Click Photo / Video and then Attach Photo / Video.

Tell us something about the picture and attach the picture from your computer.

Click post and then your picture and text should come up like this.

When we see your posts on our page we will share them with all of our followers. If you have any trouble leave a comment here or on our page and we will be happy to help.

We can't wait to see what you are making.

Happy Sewing,
Kelly

Tutorial: Simple drawstring bag

2012-08-08T08:00:00.000+01:00

We think that this bag is perfect for keeping pumps or trainers in for school but there are so many things that you can use this bag for and it is so easy we make them for everything!

Notes:

Finished bag size is approximately 13" x 17"

Requirements:

Main fabric 19" x 28" (we used two pieces sewn together as we were using up fabric left over from another project).
Constrast fabric for pocket 7" x7" (if required)
Cord or ribbon
Sewing supplies

Instructions:

If you want to have a pocket on your bag take a square of contrast fabric and fold the top over by half an inch and stitch across. Then iron the other three sides under by quarter of an inch and then stitch in place on the right sides of the main piece of fabric as shown below.

Measure 1.5" down from the top of the bag and make a small snip in the fabric 0.5" long. Then fold the piece of material above the snip over quarter of an inch and then another quarter of an inch and stitch as shown below.

Next place your piece of material right sides down and fold the top over by half an inch and then again by an inch. Press and pin in place and then stitch all along the bottom creating a channel for the cord or ribbon to go through. Make sure you stitch backwards and forwards at the beginning and the end to secure your stitches.

Then fold in half with right sides together and stitch the two open sides together using a quarter inch seam allowance.

Use pinking shears to trim your seams to stop them fraying. Turn your bag right sides out and using a safety pin pass the cord right through the channel you have created and out the other side. Tie the two ends together when it is the preferred length.

Congratulations your bag is finished!

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Tutorial: Freddie the Frog

2012-08-03T08:00:00.000+01:00

Now that the Summer holidays are in full swing I thought that it would be a good idea to repost one of our older projects that we have on the blog. This little fellow is always popular with people that come into the shop and it is a brilliant beginners sewing project and a great present for your friends.

To get the template click on the picture of the frog so it appears in a pop up window and then right click to 'Save as'. You can then open the image up on your computer and print it.

If you make a Freddie we would love to see your finished frogs. You can email a picture to us or post it on the wall of our Facebook page.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

August at the Owl and Sewing Cat

2012-08-01T08:00:00.000+01:00

This month we are thinking of summer holidays and things that you and your children can make or do to prepare them for going back to school in August as well as amuse themselves during the holidays. We have a fun beginners project coming up as well as a tutorial for a really handy shoe bag for when they are back at school.

Come and check out our new window display and don't forget that we have the holiday sewing club in the shop for 10 - 16 year olds. We also have Open Sewing Sessions running on different days to usual over the summer holidays so have a look and see if there is one you could come along to.

Back to school projects including: Lunch bag, Covered Notebook, pencil case, crayon / pen roll,

shoe bag (tutorial next week), painting tabbard, book bag, drawstring rucksack.

Made: Items made in our classes and shop this month

2012-07-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

We have been really busy recently, thinking up and trying out new patterns as well as guding our students through making some of our most popular items. We have had a really successful first holiday sewing club and Tracey is trying to plan a new patchwork / quilting class which we are really excited about.

All of these items were made in the shop.

The zip up make up bag was made in our holiday sewing club, isn't it great? I love the bright apron too.

The Penny pleat bag (shown here in the dolls fabric) is one of our new patterns that will be available soon.

Hope this inspires you to make something soon, or join us for a class. Please see the Sewing Workshops section of our website for details.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Focus: Elements beginner patchwork and quilting class

2012-07-25T08:00:00.000+01:00

We are regularly being asked about the various classes and workshops that we hold at the Owl and Sewing Cat so 'Focus' is a new series looking at each class in turn. All images are of items that can be made in this class.

What is the name of the class?
Elements

Who is it for?
Anyone who would like to learn the basics of patchwork and quilting and make a lovely cushion. The front of the cushion is pieced together and quilted and applique motifs are added. This is then made into a cushion practicing other various techniques on the back (adding a zip etc).

When does it take place?
Our next class is on Tuesday 28th August. The class is either run by the owner of the shop, Tracey, or our tutor Yvonne.

What can you make?

A beautiful cushion for you to take home. The front of the cushion is pieced together and quilted and applique motifs are added. This is then made into a cushion cover practicing other various techniques on the back, adding a zip, buttons etc depending on the design.

How much does it cost?

It is £38 plus fabric costs.

How do I come along?
Look at the class page for dates and then just give us a call on the number on our website to book your session. If possible we ask that you choose your fabric before you come so we have plenty of time for learning and sewing.

I have not yet decided which class we will feature next month, if there is one you would like to know more about please leave a comment.

New in store: Riley Blake, Moda and more!

2012-07-23T09:07:00.001+01:00

We have had loads of great new fabrics in over the past few weeks so I thought I would show you a selection today.

I am a huge fan of Riley Blake fabrics and these are no exception. I love the bright colours and patterns. Perfect for summer. I think my favourite is the spot, I just love those little apples that are scattered here and there.

The Petit Odile collection by Moda has always been popular in store and we have refilled our shelves with six different prints from this collection. I can't decide which of these is my favourite, I think those buttons are so cute but I really like the muted colours of the floral 'Amelia'.

Something that is very light and summery is this 'Penelope' collection for Lakehouse fabrics. Now that the sun has come out I can picture garden parties. I love the traditional French feel to some of these designs. The black and white text style prints are always popular and this includes a particularly lovely one.

Finally, my favourite fabrics we have in store are these two from Kokka in Japan. The typewriters are from Melody Miller's Ruby Star Shining and the birds are an Echino print. I think the typewriters are destined to be a lampshade in my bedroom. I just love everything about this fabric!

I would love to know which of these is your favourite and what you could imagine making from them. Dreaming up new projects for all these fabrics is the best bit of this job!

All fabrics are available for sale in the shop and in the designer fabric section of our website.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Giveaway Winner: Owl and Sewing Cat sewing pattern

2012-07-23T08:32:00.002+01:00

The winner of the exclusive Owl and Sewing Cat sewing pattern is...

...Kelly Staniland.

Congratulations Kelly. You will receive an email from us shortly.

If you didn't win then all our patterns are available to purchase in the shop and in the sewing patterns section of our website.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Introducing: Tracey

2012-07-18T08:30:00.000+01:00

Tracey is the owner of the Owl and Sewing Cat. She was inspired to open a fabric shop when her teenage daughter started to show an interest in sewing but they struggled to find fun and interesting fabrics that would be easy for her to sew with. She has the enviable job of picking all the fabric, notions and yarn for the shop. She also teaches a number of classes and workshops as well as managing the shop and developing the Owl and Sewing Cat range of patterns. With a family to look after too she is one very busy lady indeed.

When did your love of sewing begin?
From a very young age. As long as I can remember I would always play with my nan’s ribbon and buttons boxes, as my mum was often sewing. I remember loving going through the fabric boxes and then seeing that fabric transformed into soft toys or clothing.

Do you have a favourite thing to make?
I love making bags, cushions and bunting, because you can never have too many of them around the house. I wish I had kept a count of how many metres of bunting have been made in our workshops since we began running them.

What inspires you?
The fabrics and yarns themselves are very inspiring. We can look at all the new collections and buy those that jump out at us, and usually the prints or colours inspire us to make either bags, or a skirt, etc. We also get inspiration from our customers sometimes, as they often have requests for patterns, or like to share their tips and ideas.

What do you like most about sewing?
Sewing and knitting are very therapeutic; they’re a great hobby to have. There is nothing like hand-making a unique gift as a present. It is lovely to take that bit of ‘me time’ in our busy lives and create something lovely.

Any future plans or aspirations?
In October, we opened our new shop, offering quality wool, yarn and a new larger area for all our workshops. My long-term aim was that we would be able to expand our teaching program, and in October, much earlier that I had originally thought, we began a large variety of classes, including knitting, patchwork, beginners sewing, dressmaking, crochet, cup cake decorating, making Christmas decorations, a children’s club, and many more. We hope to find even more tutors locally who can come along and share their skills. I will always aspire to get as many people as possible in Eastbourne sewing or knitting.

Tracey is in the shop most days and along with the lovely shop assistants is always happy to give help and advice on picking fabric and different projects you can make.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Featured: Shop of the month

2012-07-16T12:53:00.001+01:00

We are very excited that we are Shop of the Month on the Country days blog this month. Country days is written by the editor and team behind Country Homes and Interiors magazine. What a lovely surprise on a wet and windy Monday morning.

Shop of the Month... Owl and Sewing Cat

Giveaway: Owl and Sewing Cat Pattern

2012-07-13T08:00:00.000+01:00

We are very excited to be able to tell you that we have the first of our new exclusive Owl and Sewing Cat patterns available in store and in our online fabric shop. Each pattern pack contains a requirements list, easy to follow step by step instructions with pictures, and full size pattern pieces ready for cutting and using. No tracing or enlarging required, allowing you to get making straight away.

Example pattern sheet

At present we have four pattern packs available and more in the creation stages. We are loving making these and hope that they will be perfect for people who cannot come along to our sewing sessions.

At present we have two bags and two of our kitchen patterns available. The Bryony Bag is spacious and stylish and a firm favourite of people that come into the shop. Our beach bag is big and brilliant and just right for chucking all your bits and pieces in on holiday.

For the kitchen we have the Poppy Pinny - the pack comes with both adult and child size patterns. This is a really pretty gathered pinny with adjustable straps. And to help you get organised we have a Hanging Organiser and Bag Tidy - two patterns in one.

All of these patterns can be seen in more detail on Patterns and Sewing Kits page on our website.

Today we are giving away a pattern of your choice from those listed above. All you need to do to enter is join our mailing list and then have a look at the patterns and decide which is your favourite. Then complete the form below to register your entry. You automatically get two entries for completing those steps.

If you would like extra entries there are three other things you can do - follow us on Twitter, like our page on Facebook and tweet about the giveaway if you wish.

Small print:
A winner will be drawn using Rafflecopter when the competition closes in a week on 20th July 2012.
UK entries only as the pattern will be sent to you by post.
We will contact the winner by email after the competition has closed.
The prize is for one of our exclusive Owl and Sewing Cat patterns, no other prize will be substituted.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Inspiration: Teacher's Gifts

2012-07-11T09:51:00.003+01:00

Suddenly the end of term is upon us and it is the perfect time to make a little something to say thank you to your or your children's teachers.

We have some brilliant ideas for simple gifts to make. I have added a link to all of the tutorials that we have on our blog.

Envelope cushion - brilliant quick make, just one piece of fabric and four straight lines of stitching.

Two fat quarter cushion - very similar to the above but made with two fat quarters.

Tote bag - something for your teacher to take all her other gifts home in.

Bunting - really easy to make and everyone loves a bit of bunting to cheer up a room.

All of these items were made in our Open Sewing Session from fabric bought from our shop. We have lots of new fabrics in the Owl and Sewing Cat online store that would be perfect for these.

Tutorial: Embellished Tea Towels

2012-07-06T11:22:00.000+01:00

To tie in with our kitchen theme this month we have a great tutorial for you. Really simple to make but a lovely present for someone or perfect for making tea towels to match your kitchen decor. We chose apples and polka dots to go with the rest of the items in our kitchen display.

Requirements:
Plain tea towels
Chosen fabric - 11" x width of tea towel plus 1/2"
Ribbon or tape for hanging 7"
Other ribbon or trim as required.

Instructions:

1.Take your tea towel and measure the width at the bottom hem as shown and add 1/2" to this measurement and this will be the width for your cutting.

2. Cut your fabric using the width measurement from step 1 and cutting the length to 11".

3. Fold the cut fabric in half matching the two long sides and with right sides facing and press. Then take 7" of hanging tape or ribbon and fold in half. Open up the fabric and pin the folded tape just below the pressed line as shown.

4. Fold the fabric back in half and then stitch using 1/4" seam allowance, along both the short edges.

5. Turn right sides out and press. Tuck the bottom end of the tea towel inside the fabric sleeve just made.

6. Pin the tea towel right to the top of the fabric and stitch along to hold tea towel in place.

7. Turn under the bottom edge of the fabric by 1/2" and press. Then pin the bottom edge flat to the tea towel and stitch along that edge.

8. Add trim as required.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

New kitchen window display

2012-07-04T09:47:00.000+01:00

July seems to be as wet as June was and so our thoughts are still on our home and we have been busy putting together a special window display to show off our new range of kitchen patterns.

To celebrate we have some kitchen themed blog posts planned and a competition to win one of our new patterns as well.

Happy Sewing,

Kelly x

Technical information, please ignore:
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Made: Items made in our classes this month

2012-06-29T08:00:00.000+01:00

Here are some of the items that have been made in store this month. There are some gorgeous items and lots and lots of bunting, a brilliant project for beginners. As always have a look on the Owl and Sewing Cat website for details on our classes and workshops.

Focus: Bag Making Workshop

2012-06-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

Who is it for?
Anyone that would like to have a go at making a bag and learning some tips and techniques at the same time. Some experience of using a sewing machine is required. If you wanted to do this course but needed to pick up the basics (or have a refresher) then coming along to one of our Open Sewing Sessions first might be useful.

When does it take place?
Our next class is on Friday 27th from 10am - 4pm. The class is run by the owner of the shop, Tracey.

What can you make?

One of our lovely bags! We have lots of different patterns and designs to choose from. From a new handbag to a useful beach bag we have something to suit everybody. I have included a few pictures here but there are many possibilities. We will talk you through the entire process from cutting fabric right through to finishing your bag. Tracey will also talk you through how to adjust the size and shape of a bag so that you can make your own patterns in the future. Make one for yourself or as a present for someone.

How much does it cost?

It is £38 plus fabric costs.

How do I come along?
Look at the class page for dates and then just give us a call on the number on our website to book your session. If possible we ask that you choose your project and fabric before you come.

Next month we will be looking at our Elements patchwork & quilting course.

Coming soon: Holiday Sewing Club

2012-06-22T08:00:00.000+01:00

We now have details of classes running throughout the summer on our website. One of the ever popular sessions we will be running is our Sewing Club for 10-16 year olds.

If you are (or know someone who is) a young person interested in learning to use a sewing machine come along to one of our sessions and you can learn to make something special. We have a new project each session and Tracey takes you through the whole process from start to finish.

The dates and projects are listed below. Sessions cost £20 and include all the fabrics you need.

10th July - Pencil case

24th July - Apron

7th August - Bag with decoration

21st August - Monster cushion made from felt - design your own

Please contact us by telephone or pop into the shop if you are interested in booking one of the classes.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Introducing: The Owl and Sewing Cat shop

2012-06-20T15:50:00.002+01:00

Tucked behind the Grand Hotel on Eastbourne's beautiful sun-drenched (well it is today) seafront is a little shop called The Owl and Sewing Cat.

Owned by Tracey, the shop is an Aladin's cave of fabric, notions, yarn and so much more. From a fancy sewing machine that can write your name to teeny tiny shell buttons we have everything you need to start and finish a sewing project. And if you really want to make something beautiful but don't know where to start the friendly, knowledgeable staff are there to help you with any question you may have or any help you may need.

Tracey decided to open the Owl and Sewing Cat when her daughter, then aged 12, started to show an interest in sewing but they were struggling to find fun and interesting fabrics that would be easy for her to sew with. And so The Owl and Sewing Cat was born. Originally based in Bexhill we moved to Eastbourne last year and a few months later doubled the shop size by taking on the empty shop next door which gave us space to offer more classes and start stocking lots of new products including sewing kits, wool and yarn.

In order to hold the variety of fabrics we have in the shop, products are shipped in from across the world. Fabric led to sewing lessons and Tracey has built a series of sewing workshops for adults and children to come along and learn various techniques, from beginners, through to patchwork and dressmaking, and now knitting and crochet.

Busy working during an Open Sewing Session

We pride ourselves on friendly service and advice to all, whether a complete beginner or someone with more experience. We offer inspiring ideas, shown in the store and also blogs and free patterns via our website and facebook page. We also offer a free pattern loan service from the shop on our range of patterns that we have designed. And most importantly, it’s a fun place to be, with ever-changing fabrics, yarns and projects. We are really settled in this location and have many regulars that pop in, returning to the classes time and time again and nipping in to show us the progress they have made on a project, or just getting a little advice when needed. Never fear if you are not local however, as we sell fabric and other items online so you can join in the fun.

I hope that you have enjoyed seeing a few pictures of the shop and getting to know us a little bit better.

Happy sewing,

Kelly

This post is one of a series introducing our readers to the Owl and Sewing Cat and the people that work there. Other posts in this series can be seen here.

New in store - Alikits

2012-06-19T19:28:00.000+01:00

We love it when we find a product that is designed to get adults and children sewing together and we are so happy to be a stockist for Alikits - Sewing kits with a story to tell.

Made in Cornwall these sweet Alikits contain everything you need to make the amazingly cute creatures. You just need a pair of scissors and you will be away. Each has their own name and story and there is even a blog about their adventures on Acorn Crescent where they all live.

They really are the cutest animals we have come across in a long time. Bright vibrant colours and made from felt they are easy to make and will be loved by all ages. I am dying to start a collection today. It will definitely start with Mr Poop the Pigeon (although I am totally afraid of them in real life).

Pop in store to see the full range and some made up samples. Perfect as presents, either made up or for someone who can sew their new pet themselves.

Inspiration: Father's Day

2012-06-08T16:21:00.000+01:00

On Sunday the 17th June it is Father's Day here in the UK and we have been trying to think of things that we can make for the Dads in our lives.

I have been scouring the internet for some inspiration and I thought that I would share some of it here with you. Check out our Father's Day Pinterest board to see all these ideas and more in one place.

Flickr:

How about a simple drawstring bag? Great as a laundry bag or for putting shoes in when traveling:

If your dad likes to cook then how about a brilliant reversible apron?

Both of these items can be made with us in store at our Open Sewing Sessions. If you don't have time before Father's Day then any of these items would be great birthday presents too.

Tutorials:

Make a one of a kind tie for your dad with this tutorial from The Purl Bee. I think that this is such a lovely idea and you can make it really personal to him.

image credit

Or is your dad more of a gadget man? Here are some great tutorials to make something snug for his favourite items.

I used this great quilted iPad cover tutorial to make the one below recently.

Image courtesy of A place of my own

Or perhaps he has a laptop and you think you could make him a laptop sleeve.

image credit

Finally maybe just something smaller to hold an iPod or camera or even special items such as cufflinks or a watch when traveling. This Gadget Cosy Tutorial is quick and simple and there are loads of things it could be used for.

image credit

Obviously if you decide to make any of these you will need fabrics that would suit your dad's personality. We have a great fat quarter bundle online and instore now called 'Hello Sailor' which would be great for men.

If that doesn't seem the thing for your dad then why not have a browse through our other fabrics for sale and see what you think he would like. Here are some of my picks.

Tutorial: No-Sew Fleece Blanket

2012-06-05T07:45:00.000+01:00

Today we have a quick and easy tutorial to share with you. So simple that you don't even need to be able to sew, just use a pair of scissors and tie knots. This would be a brilliant project for half term and once you are finished you will have a great fleece blanket perfect for keeping you warm. We love to use these for snuggling under to watch a family film, and if you are going camping these will protect you from the night time chills! You can either close up all four sides or leave the top open and climb inside to use it like a sleeping bag. Then you can just throw your pillow and pyjamas in and you have a portable bed wherever you are.

Requirements:
Two pieces of fleece, 1m or larger.
Scissors

Notes:
The pirate fleece fabric is sold by the panel and is 120cm x 160cm
We have a variety of different fleece fabrics for sale in our online store.

Instructions:

1. Lay the two pieces of fleece wrong sides together and go round the sides that you want to tie together, making cuts every inch that are 4 inches long. Your blanket will now have a tassle fringe. If you want to have the top edge open you can either leave it uncut or have it with tassles that you don't tie up.

2. Have a seat and placing the blanket on your lap work your way round tying the front and back together with a simple double overhand knot (or reef knot). Continue your way round the blanket until all edges are tied together.

3. Snuggle under your handiwork and enjoy!

Check out our other tutorials for some great items to make.

Happy Sewing,

Kelly

Summersville, School Days and Fat Quarter Bundles

2012-06-02T13:27:00.001+01:00

I hope that everyone is out enjoying the Jubilee weekend. I thought that I would just write a quick post letting you know about some of the new fabrics that we have online at the moment.

Summersville is now in stock. We have hand picked our favourite prints from Lucie Summers' debut fabric collection for Moda. They are (clockwise from top left) Novelty Town in Coal, Floral Scandi in Red, Novelty Avenue in Coal and Check Weave in Red. These are proving very popular already.

We also have another two great Moda Fabrics, both from the School Days collection by American Jane. On the left we have ABC 123 in Natural and one the right Connect the Dots in Red. I can't wait to get the chance to break out some embroidery floss and have a go at sewing dot to dot. Perfect prints for all your makes for children.

We have also put together two Limited Edition fat quarter bundles for you with a nautical theme. Hello Sailor is £10.99 and Nautical but Nice is £12.99. We hope you like them.

'Hello Sailor'

Nautical but Nice

All these and much more available from our website.

Happy Sewing,

Kelly

Focus: Open Sewing Sessions

2012-05-23T15:40:00.002+01:00

What is the name of the class?
Open Sewing Session

Who is it for?

Anyone! The classes cater for beginners who have never used a sewing machine before all the way to regulars who come again and again. All sessions are run by the shop owner Tracey, and they are always a fun and friendly way to learn sewing. Sessions are usually for between 6-8 people. Suitable for both adults and children after 10 years old.

When does it take place?

The Open sessions are on Wednesday and Saturdays from 10am-1pm. They take place most weeks, but dates can be seen on our website.

What can you make?

The list is endless! Good beginner projects are bunting, simple envelope cushions, cushions made from two fat quarters and tote bags. You can make a simple child's dress, skirt or tunic. If you want to learn something specific, like applique or how to insert a zip, then this is the class for you. We will guide you through your project and give you ideas and advice. You will learn various techniques as you go, including piping, buttonholes and even how to sew a button on using a sewing machine! If you need inspiration please check our our gallery of projects or come in store to chat to us.

How much does it cost?

It is £15 plus fabric costs (although you are welcome to bring your own).

How do I come along?

Look at the class page for dates and then just give us a call on the number on our website to book your session. If possible we ask that you choose your project and fabric before you come and we will cut it and prepare everything prior to your session. You just need to come along and sew!

Happy sewing,

Kelly

Next month we will be looking at our new Bag Making Workshop.

Made: Items made in our Open Sewing Sessions

2012-05-21T12:58:00.000+01:00

Today I thought that I would share some pictures of items that have been made in store in our workshops recently.

All of these items have been made in our Open Sewing Sessions, held twice a week on a Wednesday or Saturday morning. Perfect for beginners or improvers alike. Come along and join the fun.

I will be back later in the week with more information!

Happy Sewing,

Kelly

Twitter competition

2012-05-19T14:22:00.000+01:00

We currently have a Twitter competition running to win three fat quarters of your choice from our online shop, check out our timeline for more information.

Follow @owlandsewingcat on Twitter.