Modern Sewing Starts Here Edition 37

Edition 36 - October 2024
Modern
sewing
starts here..
Edition 37 - December 2024
STYLISH
project
Keep the family
entertained and
make no-sew 8-point
Scandinavian Stars
Phoebe Coat from Closet Core
FABRIC
PANELS
What they are and what
you can use them for!
We REVIEW
The lovely Jensen Shirt
from Wardrobe by Me
VALENTINE’S DAY
Gift ideas to sew for this next special occassion!
COSY FABRICS
Make the season cheerful
with beautiful fabrics!
Sewing
PATTERNS
New pattern releases
Cosy Pyjamas
& patterns to stay warm!
www.modernsewingstartshere.co.uk

Latest Releases
Pattern Finder
www.hantex.co.uk/patternfinder
Painter Jacket
Find the perfect pattern for your next project …
search by brand, garment type, fabric type, skill level or even season
Pattern Finder
Use the find a stockist facility to support independent retailers and designers

Editor’s Letter
As snow falls outside, it’s finally starting to feel a little Christmassy
– if not definitely wintery! This time of year can be hectic for
everyone, and in this edition, we share a quick and easy 8-point
Scandinavian Star no-sew project that you can whip up in no time
and the children can help too! We’ve also rounded up four of the
best pyjama patterns so you can make your own cosy pair just in
time for Christmas morning!
To celebrate the release of Modelo’s Glenrock flannel collection,
Jacqui Smith has made the Jensen Shirt sewing pattern from
Wardrobe by Me and shares how she got on with both fabric
and pattern! This stylish and versatile piece is ideal for staying
warm during the chilly days ahead. We’ve also included some
helpful tips for working with flannel fabric. If staying warm
and cosy is high on your priority list at the moment, then we
share five must-try patterns to help you keep the cold at bay
this season. Fabric panels are a popular choice, we explain
with the help of Art Gallery Fabrics, what they are and why
you might like to use them on your next project!
Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!
Until next time, from the team at
Modern Sewing Starts Here
www.modernsewingstartshere.co.uk
Subscribe and never miss the latest copy of Modern Sewing Starts Here - click here
#modernsewingstartshere

New apparel pattern releases for you to make!
Closet Core
The Rika Pants pattern has a timeless and
versatile look which can be made to feel
like tailored trousers or utilitarian workwear,
depending on the trouser details that you
choose to sew! Choose from a high rise which
sits just below the natural waist, a three-piece
waistband, angled front pockets, a fly front
zipper, and a straight leg, this pattern has you
covered! This pattern comes in sizes 0-20.
Modern yet timeless, the Phoebe Coat is a
double-breasted coat with a contemporary
cocoon shape. Fully lined, it has a dramatic
notched collar and lapel that can be worn
closed to stop drafts during the colder days. The
pattern has other stylish features like a dropped
shoulder, roomy two-piece sleeve, and oversized
fit that make this coat ideal for layering over
bulky winter layers. This coat pattern comes in
sizes XXS-4X.
To view the full range of Closet Core patterns – click here

The Roxanne Cargo Shorts and Sweatpants are comfortable
and practical to wear. Made with slightly stretchy fabric with an
elastic waistband, they offer great freedom of movement for
those stay-at-home days. The cargo pockets add a utilitarian
touch making them ideal for carrying your phone or keys.
Jalie
If you are looking for a full-zip cosy top, the Sam Classic Fleece
is an ideal design that the whole family can wear! This sleek,
hip-length jacket with a high collar will keep you warm on
cooler days and layers beautifully for the very cold weather.
With practical side pockets (and hidden interior ones) plus a
zippered chest pocket, this cosy top is a versatile staple for your
handmade wardrobe.
The Joanie Dress and T-Shirt is another
great pattern featuring a knee-length
T-shirt dress and a classic T-shirt. Whether
you’re sewing a cosy PJ top, a comfy nightie,
or a festive sparkly dress or top, this pattern
lets you play with lots of different fabrics and
can be sewn time and time again!
The Elsa Sleeveless Tops and Dress is a
pattern for three fitted, sleeveless garments
with a mock turtleneck, banded crew neck with
the armhole slightly cut-in.
Available in three lengths – a cropped top
(hits at the belly button), a regular length that
hits above the hips) and a knee-length dress,
this pattern is a quick and easy-to-sew project
whatever you choose!
The Solene Lounge Robe is an easy-to-sew
robe with a collar band, cuff bands, patch
pockets, and a hanging loop. It can be made
using an overlocker for a professional finish
and would make the perfect last-minute gift for
family or a friend!
Jalie patterns come in an extensive range of sizes (28 sizes).
To view these sewing patterns and more - click here

Noodlehead
The Plover Pouch is a fun zippered
pouch you’ll want to make in every size!
Each of the three pouch sizes includes
an interior mesh pocket with dividers,
keeping everything perfectly organised.
The medium and large pouches have an
additional zippered pocket inside, along
with a stylish metal snap detail (or use a
classic shirt button if you prefer).
To view this super pouch and more from
Noodlehead - click here
ByAnnie
The Precious Cargo
Stroller Organizer is
packed with zippered
pockets and dividers to keep
everything you need for a stroll with your baby neatly
organised.
Durable straps with swivel hooks make attaching it to
almost any stroller easy! With slip pockets on each end
for quick access to your phone and other essentials, plus
expanding interior dividers for nappies, wipes, clothes,
and bottles, this organiser has you fully prepared for any
outing.
To view this sewing pattern from ByAnnie - click here

Style Arc
The Kira Knit Top is a relaxed, long-sleeved
jumper featuring a draped crossover front, dropped
shoulders, full sleeves gathered into cuffs, and a
plain back. The top sits at the high hip and offers a
generous fit so it’s great for wearing with skirts and
trousers.
The Elmwood Jean is a classic jean pattern with
a shaped waistband that sits at the waist and a
tailored straight leg length. The design includes an
optional button fly, which can be substituted with
a classic fly zip opening if preferred. The pattern is
perfect for denim, corduroy
and drill.
The Esther Woven Dress is a slightly A-line, calflength,
slip-on dress with front and back V-necklines
and a centre front split. It includes bust darts, all-inone
neck and armhole facings, and optional inseam
pockets. It’s great for mixing and matching fabrics
and can be worn all year round, whether on its own
or slipped over a knit top when it gets colder!
These patterns come in sizes 4-16 and 18-30. To
view the full pattern range from Style Arc - click here
Check out the free-to-use resource listing of the very best Indie patterns and filter by fabric, garment, brand
or skill level by visiting www.hantex.co.uk

New from Pen + Paper
The Top Knot quilt is traditionally pieced and recommended
for the more confident beginner quilters and upwards. This
pattern consists of instructions for making two throw sizes
measuring 53½in x 65½ in and can be adapted to make colour
designs or use festive fabrics for your seasonal look.
WHAT’S
new
We keep you up-to-date on the
latest products
Get ready to have a hoot when making the Night Owl quilt pattern!
It’s traditionally pieced and recommended for more advanced
beginners and up. The pattern pack includes instructions for making
two sizes - Throw (51½in x 62 ½in) and Bed (70in x 86in). It also
comes complete with block diagrams, labels for organising your
cuts of fabric, step-by-step detailed instructions, and colourful
illustrations to take you through from start to finish.
To view these quilt patterns and the full range of patterns
from Pen + Paper – click here

New ‘Cut To Size’ Continuous Zips
These Continuous Zipper Kits are a convenient
solution for all your zipper needs. Each pack includes
5 metres of No.5 heavy-duty or No.3 standard-duty
zipper tape, along with 20 matching zipper pulls.
You can create custom zippers of any length up to
5 metres without any waste – saving you time and
money when sewing. Whether you need a single-slide
or double-slide zipper, this kit has it all!
To view the full-colour range of Continuous Zip Kits –
click here
As easy as ABC
It’s time for more tiny piecing fun with this
Mini Alphabet patchwork quilt. Designer
Alison Glass encourages you to use the
blocks to write whatever you’d like! The
pattern includes foundation paper piecing
templates for 26 letters, plus multiple
versions of the ‘I’ block. Use the ‘I’ to mix and
match with many of the other letters, giving
you even more possibilities for unique looks
and creative outcomes, so there’s plenty of
room for you to put your spin on projects
using these little blocks! Each letter stands
4in tall, with varying widths, and they easily
join together to form words and phrases.
To view these quilt patterns
and the full range of patterns
from Alison Glass – click here
Warm wadding
Legacy has a wide range of cotton batting that’s soft, durable and substantial
for hand, machine, and longarm quilters who prefer cotton with the added
benefit of washability and good stitch definition. Choose from 100% cotton
or a cotton blend. It’s breathable, drapeable and easy to stitch.
To find more cotton and cotton blend waddings – click here

MAKING
The Jensen Shirt from Wardrobe by Me
With Jacqui Smith
As the colder months set in, there’s nothing better than
wrapping up in cosy flannels and brushed cottons! Modelo
Fabrics’ Glenrock range of flannels is the ideal fabric for men’s
shirts and pyjamas and comes in the perfect colours, so that
was the obvious choice for this project!
A GREAT PROJECT TO BUILD SKILLS:
Shirts make an excellent sewing project for anyone looking
to improve and master a variety of sewing techniques. From
placket cuffs and button fronts to the burrito-method yoke
and two-part collars – this pattern offers plenty of skill-building
opportunities.
For this project, I used this new flannel fabric and the Jensen
Shirt pattern from Wardrobe by Me. If you’d like to make a
coordinating women’s version, they also offer the Anna Shirt
pattern!

PATTERN OPITONS AND FIT:
The Jensen Shirt offers two back variations:
• A flat back joined to the yoke (slimmer fit).
• A central pleat option, which offers a little more room at
the waist.
I opted for the flat-back version for a more tailored look.
TIPS FOR FITTING SHIRTS:
If you’re concerned about fit – especially when making it
as a gift – I would suggest comparing the pattern pieces to
an existing shirt that fits well. Focus on areas like the yoke
width, sleeve length, and chest. This method worked well for
me, and I achieved a well-fitting shirt with the casual, slightly
loose fit that I wanted for the flannel fabric.
HELPFUL INSTRUCTIONS AND VIDEO SUPPORT
While the written instructions describe the construction
techniques clearly, some steps (like plackets or collars) are
outlined more generally. Fortunately, Wardrobe by Me
sewing patterns are supported by detailed, step-by-step
videos on YouTube. These resources are incredibly helpful
for achieving a polished finish, especially for those tackling
shirts for the first time!
PATTERN MATCHING WITH CHECKS
With flannel checks, pattern matching can make a big
difference in the final look. Here’s how I approached it:
• When folding the fabric before cutting, I carefully lined
up the checks on both layers.
• Using the notches on the pattern pieces, I ensured that
matching pieces aligned at the same point within the
check pattern.
It’s important to note that perfect pattern matching isn’t
always possible – particularly on curved areas like the top of
the sleeve head. However, one advantage of this pattern is
the bias-cut yoke, which eliminates the need to match the
checks between the front and back pieces. I just centred the
back yoke on a prominent point within the check for a clean,
intentional look.
SEWING WITH FLANNEL
Before starting, I pre-washed the fabric to prevent shrinkage
and enhance its softness. Flannel is a joy to work with as it’s
stable and doesn’t slip during cutting or sewing. It is also
easy to handle for precise seam matching and finishing.
FINISHING TIPS
For a professional finish, I like to slip-stitch the inside of the
collar stand and cuffs before topstitching them from the
outside. This method gives a neat, clean finish on both the
inside and outside of the shirt!
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
The Jensen Shirt pattern, paired with a cosy yarn-dyed
flannel, has resulted in a stylish and versatile garment.
Whether you’re honing new techniques or crafting a
thoughtful handmade gift, this pattern offers both
challenge and reward!
EDITORS NOTES
THE PATTERN:
The Jensen Shirt from Wardrobe
by Me is the ultimate button-up
pattern featuring lots of traditional
detailing.
The pattern includes a button
placket, a classic collar with a
stand, cuffed sleeves, and a
back yoke. The relaxed fit is
comfortable but maintains its
polished look.
The shirt has a slightly longer,
curved hem in the back, which
is ideal for casual wear. You can
customise it by choosing between
short and long sleeves, a pleated or unpleated back, and an
optional front pocket. The pattern comes in sizes 2XS-4XL.
This is one of our best-selling patterns!
To view it - click here
THE FABRIC:
The Glenrock flannel collection by Modelo
features a soft yarn-dyed check brushed
flannel that’s ideally suited for warm
and cosy shirts, shackets and pyjamas.
It comes in three colourways and two
check sizes. Jacqui has used the larger
check in the denim blue option.
To view the complete collection
- click here

KEEP COSY
Four patterns to layer up and see you through the colder days ahead!
Make these mid-calf booties and reversible slippers (not
shown here) for the spa, home or camping trips – they make
great gifts for those who feel the cold! Both are insulated with
batting for extra comfort and warmth, and the pattern comes
with a neat shoe bag for weekends away!
Nordik Quilted booties and Slippers
To find this sewing pattern from Jalie – click here
Knit garments are a must for any winter wardrobe. This
gorgeous tunic has three necklines including scoop, jewel,
and turtleneck, as well as cuffed or hemmed sleeves to keep
you warm and toasty. The pattern comes in sizes 12-28 with
cup sizes C-H.
Pembroke Dress and Tunic
To see more patterns from Cashmerette – click here
This pullover has a half zipper and dropped shoulders for
a cosy fit or you can make as a simple sweatshirt or add
contrast bands for a sporty feel. Make in sweatshirting,
French terry, fleece or this fabulous teddy fleece for an extra
cosy look! This pattern comes in sizes 0-24 (30-54).
Half Zipper Sweater
To view this pattern from Wardrobe by Me – click here
These insulated winter mittens are another sewing pattern
for the whole family. They have a waterproof nylon outer,
insulation, and warm or moisture-wicking lining. The
practical elastic strap keeps each pair together and also
provides a good fit around the wrist.
Mimi Mittens
To find this pattern from Jalie - click here

Focus on
FABRICS
Make the season cheerful with wonderful fabric designs!
New fun fabric collections from Cloud9 Fabrics:
Urban Blocks
Happy Whales
Blue Flowers
Wild Flowers
COEXISTING
Designed by Hong Kong artist Ophelia Pang, this collection contains some beautiful
prints that reflect her love for expressing mechanical and architectural drawings in colour
and shape. This whimsical Modal Rayon collection due to its softness is ideal for making
your clothes like blouses, shirts, dresses and skirts!
Charlotte
Jessamine
GRASS ROOTS
This quilter’s weight fabric collection is
full of fun folksy designs of florals and
natural motifs designed by the talented
Amy MacCready, a pattern designer and
illustrator based in the Netherlands.
This neutral colourway is ideal for home
décor and bags. We love it’s Art Deco
appeal to it and that four of the designs
come in canvas.
Rita
Eliza
To find more organic fabric collections from Cloud9 Fabrics - click here

Beaded Curtain
Tarot Cards
Astrology
SECRET OF THE ORACLE
The designs in this 100% organic cotton collection are all
things mysterious, mystical and witchy! We particularly
love the Beaded Curtain and Tarot Cards!
Apothecary
POPPY FIELDS
Filled with retro florals and
complementary geometrics,
this collection is inspired by the
designer, MK Surface’s love of
all things Mid-Century modern.
This range brings together a lush
colour palette with vintage-style
blooms, bouquets and
floral arrangements.
Bouquet Ivory
Poppy Vines
WOODLAND CREATURES
Czech surface designer Dominika Godette has created this fabulous
collection that’s inspired by calm walks through the forest and the
appearance of sweet woodland animals like the fox, deer, rabbit and
mouse through daisies, autumnal leaves and mushroom vines. The
watercolour texture and fine details make this fabric range a serene
view into the beauty of nature’s finest moments and is perfect for
giving your sewing projects a sense of fun!
Poppy Plaid Ivory
Blooms Red
Dancing Deer
Fox Lair
Mouse Meadow
Library Daisy PetrolPlaid Hounds Blue
To find more organic fabric collections from Cloud9 Fabrics - click here

The latest fabrics from Fableism:
QUEEN OF HEARTS
This beautiful new collection showcases heart
ginghams and dobby hearts in the most wearable
colours! It’s now available in a 139cm (55in) width,
so these gorgeous 100% cotton fabrics can be
used for dressmaking, quilting, and
general crafting.
Cherry Dobby Hearts
To see the full range of collections from Fableism
- click here
Cherry Gingham Hearts
The new collections from Art Gallery Fabrics:
Happy Icebergs
Little Timberland
Chasing Snowflakes
ARCTIC TALE
Drift into the frolicsome winter wonderland of Arctic Tale, this
latest AGF Studio collection is crafted to inspire designs as
unique as each falling snowflake. Bundle up with playful, cuddly
arctic creatures among the frozen winterscape for the perfect
snowbound adventure! Icy blues and arctic whites. We’re feeling
chilly, aren’t you?
To find a stockist near you of the latest Art Gallery Fabrics collections - click here

SUNRISE SUNSET
Inspired by nature’s mysteries of midnight transitioning
into the beauty of morning, this fabric range by
Jessica Swift reveals soothing sunrise hues and serene
sunset shades. Embracing textured backgrounds and
hand-drawn elements, it celebrates the slow artisan
process and the unique essence of handwork, inviting
you to embark on new and inspiring projects.
Dawn Dusk Blaze
Greeting Chirps
Midnight Moonlight
All Art Gallery Fabrics
collections contain 100%
premium cottons with many of
the ranges including rayon, flannel,
canvas and knit options plus 2.5
Binding and 108 Wide Back
Miracle Morning
To find a stockist near you of the latest Art Gallery Fabrics collections - click here

WORKING WITH
FLANNELS
Julie Bonnar discusses flannel and sewing with it
What is flannel?
Flannel is a very soft, medium-weight woven fabric that can be made
from wool, cotton, or blended with synthetic fibres. Flannel can be solid
in colour or have different prints. It’s brushed to create extra softness and
this gives it a napped fuzzy, down-like texture on either one side or both,
which traps air, making it warm to wear.
It’s often woven with patterns, especially plaid and tartan, and is heavy
duty and very low maintenance. Due to its soft, fuzzy texture, this fabric
is perfect for keeping you warm in the winter and perfect for garments.
As flannel is often woven in plaid or tartan designs, some people often
mistake the pattern for flannel! Flannel is in fact, not always plaid and
comes in some wonderful patterns and colours.
Types of flannel?
COTTON
This is made from cotton, it’s also napped on either one or
both of its sides.
WOOL
Made from wool fibres and known for being warm and very
durable, it’s also known as worsted flannel and used in tailored
garments like coats and suits.
FLANNELETTE
This lighter fabric can be napped on one or both sides and has
a long or short nap and comes in solid and patterns. It’s ideal
for shirts, pyjamas and blankets.
BABY FLANNEL
This flannel is lightweight and super soft, and ideal for babies
blankets and clothes and often features beautiful designs.
CEYLON
Made from cotton from Sri Lanka, this fabric has very fine layers
and often a 50/50 blend of cotton and wool.
What can you use it for?
Because flannel is soft, warm, and moisture-wicking, it’s perfect
for the following garments:
Button-down shirts, shackets, sweaters, vests, cardigans, jackets,
blazers, coats, skirts and trousers. It’s great for cosy sleepwear like
pyjama tops and bottoms, as well as, dressing gowns, bed sheets,
blankets and throws. It’s also a popular fabric for backing quilts.
TIP: Using a better quality flannel will make your garment last
longer! It will reduce pilling and maintain its shape better too!
COMING SOON
From the Snuggles collection
from Art Gallery Fabrics.
An all-flannel fabric
collection designed for kids,
and kids at heart.

Sewing with flannel:
Dress made with Checkered Charm Flannel
from Christmas in the Cabin by AGF Studio
Pre-washing
Choose a cool delicate wash and avoid tumble drying for
both the pre-wash and also to care for your flannel garments
afterwards. It dries quickly left over a radiator. Press on medium
heat in an up-and-down motion. This will help prevent the
fabric from shrinking and the good news is that flannel gets
softer as it gets older!
Fabric requirement
Always buy more than you need! Flannel is notorious for
shrinking due to the loose weave and many have checks or
patterns that require pattern matching!
Cutting flannel
Flannel tends to pull and shift making cutting a little difficult.
Starching the flannel fabric before cutting will stiffen it a bit and
should help resolve this issue.
Marking flannel
Use a smooth-edged chalk tool. Avoid a spoked wheel tool as
this can make holes in your fabric. Always fold the right sides
together before cutting a straight flannel.
Sewing notions
• A size 80/14 or 90/14 needle is perfect for piercing these
fabrics. You may need to change it several times during a
project, as flannel will dull your needle.
• A longer stitch length of around 3.0mm helps the fabric
hold its stretch.
• Choose an all-purpose polyester or cotton thread like
Scanfil to help the flannel fabric maintain its shape.
Scanfil all-purpose organic cotton thread is great
quality, has a regular spool size and is compliant
with Oeko-Tex environmental standard 100 to
avoid harmful substances.
To see the full range - click here
• A walking foot will also allow the fabric to feed through
evenly and prevent any shifting, distorting or stretching.
Pressing and ironing
Flannel can be pressed and ironed but do it on a low to
medium heat to keep the fibres from scorching or burning. A
spritz of steam will help get the creases out but don’t press too
hard as this flattens the lovely napped texture.
Finishing Seams
Flannel fabrics do fray so you’ll need to finish your seams.The
best option is to use a little Fray Check, and overlock or run a
zigzag stitch along the seams.
After Sewing
This fabric produces lint which builds up in and around your
sewing machine, so take a small brush and remove from around
the needle, underneath the footplate and bobbin case after
you’ve finished using this type of fabric.
Flannel is such a lovely, warm, cosy fabric
to wear and well worth the extra care taken
whilst working and sewing with it!
Julie
This article has been written by Julie Bonnar, the Editor of The Pattern Pages, an independent sewing magazine started by
mother and daughter team, and the first magazine to champion indie designers, www.thepatternpages.co.uk

COSY FLANNELS
Brick Red/Grey
Denim Blue/Grey
Charcoal/Grey
Many of the Art Gallery Fabrics fabric collections offer one or two
designs in flannel. Here are just a few of our favourites:
Modelo has just released its new Glenrock
collection of flannel fabric in two check
pattern sizes and three colourways - brick
red/grey, denim blue/grey and charcoal/
grey . Made from 100% cotton, this soft
yarn-dyed check brushed flannel is perfect
for your next warm make!
To view Modelo’s selection of flannel -
click here
Sunflower Solid Flannel
Dawn Dusk Blaze Flannel from
Sunrise Sunset by Jessica Swift
Bear Out There Flannel
from Lakelife
Evolve Queen Bee Flannel from Evolve
by Suzy Quilts for AGF
Mauvelous Solid Flannel
To view the full range of flannel from
Art Gallery Fabrics - click here

TRENDSETTER
Pyjama Party
JEANNE KNIT PJS
FRAN PAJAMAS
The Jeanne Knit PJ is a two-piece set designed for
jersey knits, featuring a cosy top with long sleeves, a
round neckline, and ribbed details on the neckband and
cuffs, paired with slim, high-waisted pants that have an
elastic waistband and ribbed ankle cuffs, making the set
wonderfully snug and perfect for lounging. The pattern
comes in 28 sizes, making it ideal for the whole family.
To see more sewing patterns from Jalie - click here
The Fran Pajamas will elevate your lounging and sleeping!
With tailored details and a slouchy fit, they look just as good
in bed as they do for a pyjama party! The top has a shirt
collar, cuffed sleeve, back yoke, inverted back pleat, while the
bottoms have a straight leg with a slightly paperbag elastic
waist. Make with a drawstring, inseam and back pockets, this
pattern comes in sizes XXS-4X.
To see more patterns from Closet Core - click here

These days pyjamas are more than sleepwear; they’re an invitation to unwind, recharge, and
indulge in pure comfort!
UNISEX PJ PANTS
LAHJA DRESSING GOWN
The Unisex PJ Pants have an elastic and pull string in the
waist casing. This sewing pattern has just one pattern piece
and no side seams, making them super comfortable for
sleeping in! This pattern comes in unisex sizing A-I and suits
both woven and jersey fabrics.
To view this pattern and more from Wardrobe by Me -
click here
The Lahja Dressing Gown is a straight-cut unisex garment.
The word ‘lahja’ means ‘gift’ in Finnish and these dressing
gowns make great gifts! Make it as a shorter knee-length
with cropped sleeves or a longer version that extends to the
midleg with full-length sleeves. The pattern comes in sizes
XS-XXL.
To view this pattern and more from Named Clothing -
click here

BE MY
VALENTINE!
Valentine’s Day comes around very quickly after the
Christmas and New Year festivities so be prepared with
fabrics and gift ideas for this next special day!
Handmade gifts are the perfect way to express love and
thoughtfulness on Valentine’s Day. Crafting something unique
shows the time, care, and personal effort you’ve invested to
create a gift tailored just for your loved one.
Unlike store-bought items, handmade treasures carry a
special charm, reflecting your shared moments and the bond
you cherish. Whether it’s a cosy quilt, a heartfelt card, or a
small token of affection, these one-of-a-kind creations are
sure to leave a lasting impression!
Valentine’s Day is all about showing unconditional love and
friendship to partners, family, and friends and what better
way to do so than with a gift they’ll treasure forever! Across
cultures, the heart shape symbolises love, kindness, and
compassion and embodies hope and joy, making it a perfect
motif for your heartfelt creations.
THE PERFECT FABRIC CHOICES:
FROM ART GALLERY FABRICS
Get ready to fall head over heels with this playful and edgy collection,
Lovestruck. Let the stunning hues of soft pinks, bold reds, warm
creams and beautiful delicate heart-inspired artwork ignite your creative
passion and sweep you off your feet. It’s time to create something truly
unforgettable with this fabric range!
To view this collection - click here
FROM CLOUD9 FABRICS
The About Love quilters cotton collection designed by Maria Galybina
is a tribute to these tender emotions that bind hearts together. It
tells the tales of romance and is inspired by the warmth of human
connections. Each design features enchanting floral elements, blooming
flowers, lush foliage and delicate hearts. This collection is a beautiful
combination of reds and greens with hints of pink and orange.
To view this collection - click here

HERE ARE SOME LOVELY
IDEAS TO MAKE:
FOR GIFTING:
Fabric Gift Bags
Make reusable and sustainable stylish wrapping for
chocolates and bottles of wine.
Wall Hangings
Stitch fabric letters that spell out ‘love’ or the
recipient’s name for a personalised gift.
Eye Mask
Sew an eye mask with Valentine’s motifs for a
luxurious yet practical gift.
Heart-Shaped Pouches
Make small zipper or drawstring pouches for storing
trinkets and jewellery.
Hair Scrunchies
Sew a bunch of hair ties, perfect for friends that have
long hair!
Fabric Bookmark
Sew heart-shaped bookmarks for book lovers.
FOR DECORATION:
Heart-Shaped Bunting
String together fabric hearts to make a garland. Use
red, pink, and white fabrics for a classic look.
Fabric Flowers
Create everlasting flowers with red or pink fabric.
Perfect as a bouquet or made into a brooch.
Valentine’s Throw Cushions
Sew cushions with heart appliqués or with
romantic quotes.
Quilted Coasters
Make heart-shaped or patchwork coasters in
Valentine’s colours to brighten someone’s day.
These gifts will not only showcase your
creativity but also bring thoughtfulness
to these celebrations!

FABRIC PANELS
What they are and how you can use them
What are they?
Fabric panel prints are essentially a collection of
images and designs with one central larger print that
make up a focal point surrounded by smaller blocks.
The idea is that rather than cutting and arranging
individual fabric pieces, you can frame these panels
with a coordinating fabric border to make a quilt
top in a fraction of the time it would normally take!
There’s nothing more satisfying than making a quilt
from scratch but sometimes when time is not on your
side, the idea of making a quicker project can be
very appealing!
Vertical panels are the most common type of fabric
panel, but they can come in a wide range of sizes.
Art Gallery Fabrics’ panels come in 111/114cm wide.
Fabric panels have gone through a bit of change
recently, and the fabric panels can be used in more
ways than before!
Art Gallery Fabrics’ Once Upon a Storybook from the Bedside Stories collection (shown here) is just an example of how panels
can be designed to make a specific project like a soft book for babies and toddlers.
How to use them?
1. Quick and easy to use
Fabric panels offer a shortcut to quilting and other sewing projects. They come with pre-printed beautiful images and
scenes that can be cut out and appliquéd onto a backing fabric, and some can be used as quilt tops as they are. The panels
are an easy and fun way to create projects without the effort of having to piece lots of blocks together to incorporate
intricate designs.

2. A good choice
There are lots of different types of fabric panels
available with different styles and themes that will
match your sewing project.
3. Ideal for beginners
With a little imagination – these fabric panels are
very easy to use for those new to sewing and result in
professional projects that look impressive but without
the more advanced sewing skills.
4. Not just for quilts!
Quilts become a breeze and used as the centre of the
quilt or cut up to highlight favourite designs.
However, there are also lots of other projects that
can be made using these fabric panels. Make home
décor projects like placemats, coasters, napkins,
cushions and aprons using the repeat patterns. Panels
are also ideal for making toys and bags.
The larger panels make great wall hangings and
throws for the sofa while the small panels make great
accessories like pin cushions and make-up bags.
5. Be Creative
There’s also room for getting creative and customising
your projects. Why not experiment with different
border fabrics, border designs, and quilting designs to
elevate the panel and make it your own with appliqué,
embroidery, and fabric painting?
Polar Quest Panel from the Arctic Tale collection from Art Gallery Fabrics
Tips for cutting your fabric panel:
Plan before you cut
Take your time to decide how you want to use it,
how you want to cut it and showcase the design.
Once cut there’s no going back!
Be accurate and neat
You need to be accurate when cutting these panels.
The gap between designs is wide enough to cut
apart and use individually. Use a sharp rotary cutter
and ruler to cut clean, straight lines that can be
pieced together seamlessly.
To view the full range of fabric panels from
Art Gallery Fabrics - click here

QUICK & EASY
SCANDINAVIAN 8-POINT STAR
Keep the family entertained in the lead-up to the big day with these no-sew
Christmas Tree decorations!
Things You’ll Need:
• 4 x 30.5cm x 7.5cm rectangles of
Christmas fabric
• (We’ve used fabrics from the Christmas
in the Cabin collection from Art Gallery
Fabrics)
• Spray starch
• Embroidery floss or ribbon for hanging
on the tree
• Tweezers
• Fabric glue
How to make:
Cut four 30.5m x 7.5cm (12in x3in) rectangles of cotton
fabric in your preferred combination of colours. Press
rectangles with a spray of starch to stiffen, and with wrong sides
together fold in half lengthwise and press.
Open and press the long sides towards the creased fold.
Fold again and press so that one side is slightly longer than
the other (about 2cm (¾in).
Repeat for all four of the fabric strips.

Begin weaving the strips together as shown above. Keep the
folded edge going around clockwise so that an
open end is next to a folded end. Tighten the strips so they sit
tightly together in the centre.
Then flip over, and start to fold the long pieces down over the
square. Continue folding counterclockwise, and secure
the final fourth strip by tucking it under the first strip and
pulling the ends tightly.
To make the points – Start at the top left and fold the strip to
the outside to make a right angle, creasing the fold with
your finger. Flip over and fold strip over. Fold in half and
tuck the end into the square to form a point.
Cut the end so it lays under the strip below. Repeat for each of
the 8 points starting with the fold to the outside. Place a
dab of glue inside the layers at each point and inside the
tucks to hold them in place and press to finish!
And finally.... sew a piece of
embroidery floss or ribbon
between two of the star points
and tie in a knot to hang from the
tree. You’re ready to place them
on the tree now!
Why not make bigger ones and use them as coasters, or make smaller ones and use them as Christmas present
decorations? Beautifully handmade and quick and easy to make!

New fabrics for this season
From Cloud9 Fabrics …Designer Tara has always
loved all things mysterious, mystical, and witchy.
Secret of the Oracle celebrates just that.
Full details & stockists

New fabrics for this season
Drift into the frolicsome winter wonderland
of Arctic Tale, the latest AGF Studio
collection crafted to inspire designs as
unique as each falling snowflake. Bundle
up with playful,cuddly arctic creatures
among the frozen winterscape for the
perfect snowbound adventure!.
PIMA Cotton
Full details & stockists

SUBSCRIBE
New fabrics for this season
Full details & stockists
Meet Sun Stripes! A two colour cotton stripe fabric collection from Fableism, featuring an array of dazzling colours plucked from our earthy palette. These 3/8ᵗʰ
inch (9.5mm) stripes are the perfect quilt binding or they are absolutely gorgeous blended together for a quilt top, and even on their own.

SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE SU
To subscribe FREE
and get your regular
copy of Modern
Sewing Starts Here
— click here
SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE