Sally's Rally

Today's fabric "USER"

2011-05-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

So - I'm trying to reach out to more of our customers...

I have been doing some broader studying and have learned that some of my customers just might not be the typical home sewer. But all people can be considered fabric users. Here is a brief list of what we consider "our customers."

A...
Costumer
Designer
Restaurant Owner
Hospital supply person
Small Manufacturer
Crafter
Scrapbooker
AND many, many more...

By definition, a "fabric user," does not have to be a home sewer. A fabric sewer can also staple, glue, or velcro fabrics to get that desired look.

Remember there are many, many different types of fabrics out there: cottons, denims, knits, satins, fabrics that are shiny, fabrics that are oh sooo soft, fabrics that are strong like home dec fabrics, vinyls, and canvas. There are also soft baby fabrics. My favorites are those fabrics that are bright and cheery, fabrics that go "BLING."

What I'm letting each of you know is that you don't have to be a sewer to love fabrics. Fabrics have oh so many multi purposes. In my last house I didn't sew, but stapled my drapry to a board, and hung them. They were very modern, and very cool. All I did to get my idea was to look through a few magazines.

I'm hoping that you ladies (and men too) who don't know how to sew, or don't feel confident doing so - you can still put something together with fabric. I have many students who are excited to put together something new, and have never sewn a straight line on a sewing machine before.

That being said, here are a few sewing, yes sewing, projects that take no previous sewing skill, and very little instruction. Guess what??? No more excuses! At Sally's Fabrics we even rent sewing machines for in store use. If you schedule ahead you can come into to the store, rent a machine, and by paying a small fee, get some instruction on your current project. How can this be you ask? On Saturdays, we have Lola available in our "sewing lab" - if customers schedule to come, she will be there to answer your every question.

So... if your interest has been peaked, take a look below.

Okay - here is a prime example of something you can do with fabric - YOU can become a "fabric user." This picture to the left is a close up of a lamp shade done by a customer, who is not a sewer, who, cut out circles and pasted them with fabric glue all over her lamp shade, which had been worn out. Then, with some very simple training she was taught how to zig zag stitch over the circles. She did the stitching only for effect - with the fabric glue no stitching was required - so if you are not a "home sewer" feel free to recover any small appliances as necessary. All it takes is fabric and glue!

Next project -

This is a rag quilt made entirely with flannel. At Sally's we would be more than happy to help you in choosing the right amount of fabric for this project. A rag quilt is a great project for a beginning sewer. :)

And last but not least....

Okay - I know the detail on this quilt is a little hard to see, and I know it looks impossible! But wait.... this quilt is mostly hand embroidery - very easy! It can be done while watching TV or while sitting and relaxing in the car, or even while on vacation. This quilt is just one block at a time, and is another great starter quilt.

Come into Sally's, and we will be happy to get you started!

So, until next time - remember just because you may not be a "home sewer" you can definitely become a FABRIC USER!

Kids Summer Camp, Session 2 -

2011-05-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay.... I said there would be pictures for the July Summer Kids Camp projects - and here they are!!! sorry for the delay :)

I l o v e d this project! Why you ask....? I know it doesn't really look like much; but, the idea is great. This is a water bottle holder - it is lined - and it is insulated. Really, it's great. What is not pictured is its over-the-shoulder strap which sports for easy travel to games, vacations, and yes, eventually back to school. Kids will be able to have the water bottle they take to school stay cooler for a much longer time.

Onto project #2

Okay, this project is also very cool. Do you have kids that when they travel, or get ready at a friend's house, or even just have a simple sleep over, have no organization to their toiletries at all??? This convenient little bag is just the right size for headbands, ribbons, clipies, flowers, curling irons, flat irons, and yes, even make up. What's even greater is that with this project, kids will learn how to install a zipper.

And, last but not least... project #3

This was a fun project; and, I'm sure this will be a favorite. It's a friend picture pillow. I simply ragged the edges, and was able to permanently place the pictures randomly on the pillow so, that there would be no worries when it came to sewing straight lines, or applying straight pictures. If your child chooses fabric to coordinate with their room, than they can also have a decorative pillow with their friends on it. Lets hope they choose their photos wisely.... ha ha ha.

Anyway, just a bit more information, for our June kids summer camp (session 1) we will be completing three projects. June's kids summer camp runs from June 6-11, and June 20-24. There is a chance we will add one more week from June 27-July 1st as both June weeks are almost full.

In July, we will kick off Kids Summer Camp (Session 2) with 3 completely new projects, all featured in this post. This session starts July 11-15th, and is almost full. If it fills I will add an additional week - more information will be coming if that is to happen.

I am soooo excited to have so many kids who are interested in sewing! Don't forget that we will continue to be having our year round "Kids Can Sew" sewing program. If you are interested please call the store at 480-833-7201. We have even started enrolling teens.

Until next time...keep a sewin'

Kids Summer Camp, Session 1 - Summer is on it's way!

2011-05-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

This year I am holding two week long summer camps. The first camp runs from June 6-10, and is $75.00 plus supplies. Take note of the projects featured below.

This cute owl purse is our first project, as it will take the longest. Isn't it sooo cute?? Just lift the purse by the owl's beak to reveal a zipper. This purse was designed by Sharon, one of our employees - yes.... Sharon is the same gal who designs all of our unique animals throughout the store.

NOTE: This June, Sharon will be having another animal class! Check out our website for times. Come in and make any of her available animals. The class is done in two sessions; and, you will have Sharon on hand to answer all of your animal questions.

Okay - here is project #2 for our Summer Kids camp. Isn't it fun?? Yes, it is a shirt, not a short dress!

AND, here is project #3, to be done in Session 1. Turn that big beach towel into a towel wrap, secured by Velcro. It will keep you covered getting out of the shower, tub, or swimming pool.

This is the deal though - The session only holds 8 students. Session 1 is already FULL, but don't panic, we have opened another week, from June 20-24. It's filling too - so act fast! And, sign up your child today. Only by signing up your child plus paying for your child holds your spot!

Coming soon.... Kids Summer Camp Session 2 - July 11- 15. Photos and samples displayed in the store this week!

A New Gal in Town

2011-04-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce a new designer that we are NOW carrying in our Sally's Fabrics store! When visiting the "Rusty Barn" back in January, I met her and her mom - she wasn't much of a sewer when she was growing up, (or sew she says:) she just received some basic sewing lessons, and NOW designs a huge line of "ragged" edge quilts, crafts, as well as other darling accessories. Her name is Bobbi Stucci; and, we now carry many of her patterns in our store.

We have completed two quilts, currently displayed in the store. My favorite is pictured below.

The other quilt also features flowers - it is a 12 square quilt done in black n whites with some reds.

The above quilt is done in Riley Blake prints, new and old. Come on in today - these patterns move quick!

Needles, Needles, Needles

2011-04-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have been sewing since I was 12, and knew just "a little" about sewing machine needles - or, so I thought :)

Anyway, when sewing, did you know that you should change out your sewing machine needle based upon what type of fabric you are sewing on??? Of course, I'm sure many of you know this; but, perhaps what you may not know is just HOW MANY different sewing machine needles there are out there based upon fabric type.

So.... here is a brief, but necessary lesson:

(1)NEEDLE TYPE
*Universal - General purpose w/a slightly rounded point
FABRIC
Most wovens (and w/some brands, knits), synthetic leather, & synthetic suede

(2)NEEDLE TYPE

*Ball Point - The rounded tip slips between yarns rather than cutting them

FABRIC
Knits such as interlock, rib knits, fleece, double  knits, and jersey

(3)NEEDLE TYPE
*Stretch
FABRIC
Slinky knits & knits containing Lycra

(4)NEEDLE TYPE
*Jeans/Denim - A stiff shaft, sharp point, & a slender eye
FABRIC
Denim, canvas, & other thick tightly woven fabrics

(5)NEEDLE TYPE
*Leather - The slightly twisted cutting edge at the point penetrates hides
FABRIC
Natural leather or suede; NOT for synthetic leather or suede

(6)NEEDLE TYPE
*Quilting - A thin, sharp, long point for sewing
FABRIC
Cotton quilt fabrics & batting multiple layers

(7)NEEDLE TYPE
*Microtex/Sharp - A supersharp point pierces the finest yarns & produces quality topstitching
FABRIC
Fine, delicate, & tightly woven fabrics

Okay, here is a bit MORE needle information - but still VERY important.

Needle SIZE depends on your THREAD

**Needle size is listed as two numbers: 60/8, 70/10, 80/12 (just a few, for example)
The first number is the European system, the second the American system - in essence, the smaller the number, the finer the needle. As a general rule: Use the smallest needle you can for your thread. Below is a list of a few brands/types of thread and their appropriate needle size.

Mettler (60wt. cotton) 60/8
Metrosene 70/10
Gutermann 75/11
Invisible 75/11
Embroidery 75/11
Coats&Clark
  Dual Duty 80/12
100%Cotton 50wt
  Quilting 80/12
Metallic 80/12
Jeans/Denim 90/14
Buttonhole/Twist 90/14 or 100/16
Topstitching 90/14 or 100/16

**LAST RULE
A dull or damaged needle can snag your fabric, affect stitch tension, break threads, and cause irregular stitches.

Perhaps if I had learned these details earlier, I WOULDN'T HAVE BROKEN SO MANY NEEDLES THIS WEEK! Oh well, there is always something new to learn.

Well, I hope this has been helpful, I know it was for me. Good luck, and have fun sewing!

Ladies Night - Thursday, March 31

2011-03-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

This Thursday we are going to be having our "Girls Only Night" NOW CALLED "Ladies Night." We changed the name because we had so many inquiries about who was invited to come and participate. Actually, all ages are invited - from baby to age 100+! This Thursday we will be having refreshments (of course!) and will also be having two separate demonstrations. Our first demonstration will be how to make those cute flowers for your hair, or for headbands, or for your clothes. These flowers are extra special because we will not only demonstrate how to make them, but will also demonstrate how to add "burnt" edges to your flowers....it's the new and instyle way to make these cute flowers.

Next, we will be doing a demonstration on how to use our in store Accu-cut machine. This machine works like a die cut machine, but is for use on fabrics. This machine makes it so much easier to cut out specific designs for your sewing project - and whats more, is it's quicker and certainly more precise! Our Accu-cut machine is always in our store, and is available for use for a minimal charge.

After these two demonstrations, we will move onto our "make and take" projects. As a customer you get to pick one of the projects shown below.-+

The first photo above is just an introduction of a class I would like to begin this summer. Depending on any feedback I receive it will be called "Fabulous Scrap 90/10." Yes, it will involve a very, very small portion of scrapbooking - only 10%. The rest of the process will involve fabrics and yes, sewing. It will be fun. This make and take will be just a small introduction.

The bottom picture is a portable tissue cover - you know for those small tissues that you keep in your purse, or for travel???

Anyway, come to our "ladies night" PLEASE.... We would love to see you -- and

to entice you even more....all regular priced items will be on sale for 25% off (machines and software not included.) Hope to see you there!

12 Days of Christmas - Block of the Month

2011-03-23T15:37:00.000-07:00

So I'd like to introduce our NEW up and coming Block of the Month Quilt! This quilt is square and measures approximately 48" by 48". Included each month is two coordinating ornaments.

This quilt is great for all quilters... especially beginners who aren't afraid of a little hand embroidery - the detail on each block is hand embroidery (Don't worry it's easy!!) The program starts April 1, and consists of two blocks as well as two ornaments per month - by starting now you will be done in time to display your handiwork for the holidays!

DETAILS:
Cost per month: $20.00
Start date: - April 2011
Monthly Kit: - Each month the customer will receive the patterns for two squares, and that month's two coordinating ornament patterns, AND white muslin for each month's squares and ornaments. Customers will need to purchase their own embroidery floss.

The monthly kit does not include the red sashing, batting, or backing of the quilt; although, we will carry the red fabric, similar to what is shown above, if you would like to purchase your finishing supplies at Sally's.

Please note: This quilt is not a class - meaning that stitch instruction can be explained each month as needed. Only monthly kits are available to sell at this time. The pattern as a whole is not available at this time.

Here is April's Ornaments (soooo cute!)

Here is a "closer" view of month 1's blocks (it also includes a partial view of month 6's blocks... ha ha.) Please call the store and sign UP today 480-833-7201.

Totally Cute Knit Top

2011-01-28T16:53:00.000-08:00

Before I even begin I HAVE to show you the cutest top!

I'm sure if you have gone to the mall lately you may have noticed a huge trend in knit blouses. Everywhere I look I see unique designs in knit, ribbon, and flowers, all sewn onto clothes. At Sally's Fabrics we are noticing the same thing. One of our talented seamstresses brought this shirt in last week for display. Didn't it turn out great?? If you are interested in making this blouse, first off you will need to purchase McCalls pattern M6031; and, follow the directions for Style B. This is a DYI pattern and is so cute (I'm sure I already said that!) This stylish shirt would look great pared with jeans or leggins.

Now, of course, when you see this pattern you will notice right off that Kathy, has "dressed up" the shirt. The first thing she did was add sleeves, which is purely optional. She was able to pattern the sleeves after one of the t-shirts she had seen in a clothing store; but, if you feel a little nervous about doing this, you could easily copy a sleeve pattern from one of your shirts at home. Kathy did sew in a small strip of 1/8" elastic to form the "sinched up" look on the sleeve that is shown.

Next, Kathy added a gathered knit piece onto the top of the blouse. For the running knit that you see, she cut a piece of knit 1" wide. Underneath, Kathy used "Chiffon," and cut her fabric pieces to 2 1/4" wide. For the flower she just pulled the gathers up to form a flower.

On the bottom of the blouse Kathy attached more of the 1" knit on top of the 2 1/4" chiffon.

Overall the blouse did not take long at all, and turned out so cute!

Conversation Hearts!

2011-01-25T17:02:00.000-08:00

Okay - if you are looking for a very EASY Valentine's Day project.... then look no further! See just how cute these conversation hearts turned out.

I made three additional hearts; and, HONESTLY, they each only took me about 15 minutes. First, I have to pay respects to where respects are due:) I purchased the embroidery design at SWAK Embroidery... quickly becoming one of my favorites! FYI - the other four hearts say "You Rock," "Text Me," "I Do," and "Love You." I love this website (SWAK) because the directions are so complete, and so easy to understand.

For those of you who are new to embroidery, these six hearts were made entirely "in the hoop." This term used to kinda freak me out because honestly... "all in the hoop? Do I do nothing??" Well, as the seamstress, you do do a few of the steps, like hoop your stabilizer, and place the felt on the hoop, but seriously, that is about it. Your embroidery machine directs you through the rest of the project!

See.... so cute! When I was done with all six heart pockets, I went to the store and bought conversation heart boxes, and they fit inside just perfectly. And voile! ....all done.

Just a quick note on embroidery sewing machines... When you first go to price an embroidery machine, just to prepare you, you will exclaim "holy cow!" when you see the price. But, as the customer, you must realize what exactly you are buying. First, you are buying an excellent sewing machine, with like the BEST computer made by man, built right inside the machine. Your sewing machine will do close to 100 stitches - and that is just the beginning. It will thread your needle, tell you when your bobbin is running low (very important in embroidering,) will memorize stitch sequences, preform mirror images, sew fast, sew slow... your embroidery machine will almost preform heart surgery! (just kidding.) Just know... embroidery machines will do all of that plus so much more - PLUS it will also quilt, and (most importantly) it will embroider thousands of designs including letters. It's so fascinating; it is mind boggling.

For now, I just have to get on my "soap box" and say when you are in the market for an embroidery machine, buy from a dealer (ALWAYS) and buy quality, quality, QUALITY! Oh, all right.... just come to Sally's and I'll help you out personally:)

Here's my machine.... Isn't it absolutely B E A U T I F U L????

Until next time.....

New Year - New Projects

2011-01-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

Okay..Okay.. I've decided that I am not doing my best at keeping up with the Sally's Fabrics blog so, here goes my new year's resolution: I promise..I promise I will keep up the blog with up-to-date projects, and sewing news. Sooo... here is to a new year!!

Once I got over my extreme fatigue of completing all of my holiday projects, I picked myself right back up, and began the new year with some machine embroidery projects.

Haven't you noticed the HUGE move towards quilting?? I am so excited about this because it has pulled some new sewers into the market. I admit quilting is very addictive; and, sewers young and old have hopped right on board towards completing all kinds of beautiful quilts. But, hence I have also noticed that embroidery is also making it's way back, but with a twist. I remember the days when my Grandma taught me how to hand embroider (we will be teaching this soon at Sally's!) And, I admit I still love doing it; but, I am amazed at the beautiful embroidery work that my sewing machine will do. It is also very simple (I was shocked to learn this:) So, a few weeks back I "Googled" modern machine embroidery, and proceeded to make up some projects that I have set out in the store for display. Take a look below.

On each of these pillows I stitched my embroidery out on off-white muslin. I also used some of our new Amy Butler fabric. Each pillow turned out so bright and cheery. For the above pillow I downloaded my design from "Meringue Designs." On my pillow below, I used SWAK embroidery. Both websites have so many embroidery designs.

Okay - next embroidery project: design your own shopping totes!

To make this 15-minute grocery bag you’ll need:

1 piece of canvas cut 20”x34”

2 pieces of 1” handbag webbing cut 18” long each

heavy cardboard cut to fit bottom, approx 8”x10”

Fold the canvas in half, and sew the two sides of the bag , then sew an 8” gusset along the bottom of the bag with heavy triple stitching to reinforce the seams, fold down top of bag 1/2” and sew all around. Attach straps with lots of stitching. Cut a piece of cardboard to fit the bottom. This gives it stability. All done!

It did not take me that much additional time to embroider my bags. I admit.... I'm now addicted to embroidery.

Look at the detail.... very cool!

Boutique - TILL CHRISTMAS!!

2010-12-17T15:28:00.000-08:00

We are starting a new monthly event at Sally's Fabrics. I apologize if I have talked about it before, but there has been a slight change this holiday season in regards to this boutique.

Okay here we go......

Each month we are going to have what is called a "Girls Only Night." It will be a fun evening, different most months, to provide V A R I T Y. I will always try to have some kind of "make -n- take," which I think is so fun. And of course, there will always be delicious refreshments. This Spring I want to start a new fun class called "Scrap-booking with fabric 90/10." What this will be is a scrapbook compiled with up to 90% fabric and only 10% paper. Many of the pages you won't even want to put in a binder, but frame because they are so beautiful.... Anyway, in January, I was thinking that it would be fun to actually come to our "Girls Only Night" and to make the first page - preferably for free... (That is my goal.) I want to get our customers excited about this new class.

Also at "Girls Only Night," I will TRY to always have a boutique. They items being sold are so cute. Anyway the slight change I mentioned in the beginning is this: We are leaving the boutique items from our Girls Only Night held on November 30 up through the holiday season. I have included a few pictures to tempt you into coming into the store. I have to say that each item is priced very reasonably, and would make a great handmade gift. We have many hair accessories that are PERFECT for stocking stuffers.

Please note! We only have 13 days left before Christmas. Give the gift of fabric, a gift card, or a SEWING MACHINE. YEAH!! Make it a Christmas they will never forget, and with each machine purchase, you will receive free sewing instruction, and 10% back on a gift card to use anywhere throughout the store. Our gift cards never expire.

Happy Holidays!! We love our customers :)

Hoodie Towel

2010-12-08T13:57:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be great to establish a pattern of putting "How to's" on the blog. This particular towel is GREAT as a baby gift or can be made if you are having a baby yourself! (congrats...) Anyway, the first thing I did was buy a towel - regular size, and a coordinating washcloth. See the following pictures.

Now I bought the towel already sewn with flower embroidery; although, with my Pfaff embroidery machine I could have added the flowers EASILY.... I didn't have as much luck on the washcloth; so, I made sure I bought a washcloth with the same pile. Because I couldn't just have a PLAIN white washcloth, (very boring) I added a small amount of coordinating Minky.

With the wash cloth you 1.) fold one side back approximately 3-31/2" and pin. I then measured a minky scrap that fit the back 2/3rds of the washcloth and pinned in place. 2.) Next, I stitched the folded part of the washcloth in place. My stitching is where you see the pins on the white part of the washcloth. 3.) At this point you will fold your washcloth right sides together, and stitch the back side of the washcloth (1/2" seam) turning right side out when done. Your stitching line will be where the pins are placed on the pink minky (the pins going up and down) but, on the wrong side of the washcloth.

After you prepare your washcloth, you will get your towel ready. 1.) Fold your towel in half lengthwise, and place a pin marking the middle of your towel. I find it very handy to also pin the edges of your towel together so that when you are measuring your pleats, you end of with both sides of your towel being even. 2.) Starting on one side of the towel measure 5" and fold back a portion of your towel 2" to make your first pleat. To make your second pleat you will measure 3" and fold back a portion of your towel 2" to make your second pleat. Repeat last step to make your third pleat. 3.) Repeat the entire step #2 on the other side of the towel, adjusting the third pleat if necessary to make sure your sides are even. 4.) Once the pleats are in place, baste over the pleats to keep in place, and remove pins.

To attach the washcloth to the towel you are going to pin the right side of the washcloth to the right side of the towel. The back seam of the washcloth pins directly to the marked middle of the towel. Stitch through all layers. When finished, I like to hand sew a white pom pom to the top of the hoodie - making the towel even cuter.

** Now, I have to say here that I like to buy fairly plush towels - they last longer. In fact, I have two towels that my kids are still using today. They are as good as ever! When making these towels you will notice that you will be sewing through several layers of towel especially if you add minky like I did. When I use my duel feed on my Pfaff machine, (not JUST a walking foot, mind you) I never brake a needle.

GOOD LUCK!!

Black Friday SALE!

2010-11-24T07:14:00.000-08:00

Guess what? At Sally's Fabrics we have never had a Black Friday sale?? I love Black Friday so, I decided that this year we will host our first "Black Friday" event. Come into the store - we open at 7:00am. We will have sales (good ones too) from 7:00 am - 8:30am then another awesome sale from 8:30 - 10:00am. From 10:00 to 1:00pm come yet for even more discounts. If you are on our e-mail list you should have been able to print an additional coupon to use after 1:00pm. We will also have a "Black Friday" tree to get specials. AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST - WE WILL GIVE AWAY A NEW SEWING MACHINE!!

Come and see us - we look forward to seeing you!!

Kelli <3

Girls Only Night!

2010-11-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome, Welcome to our first "Girls Only Night" to be held on November 30, 2010.

Girls Only Night will be a monthly event starting this November. In December we will have a "Sew-In." Wait...don't leave! I'll explain each in a few short sentences. Girls Only Night - November - Come enjoy refreshments catered in part by Sweet Cakes, (Yummy!!) and take part in demonstrations, bundle sales, a BOUTIQUE, door prizes, and a chance to win a FREE block of the month quilt (you must be present to receive free item,) and a chance to watch, and leave with a free embroidered design (shown below.) We are so excited to see all of our LOYAL customers!

Okay, here is the deal :) Come to our "Girls Only Night," and we will embroider this design for you for free! There are just a few limitations: We have preselected a few colors of embroidery thread that will be used for that night. We have reserved the colors you see here as well as the fabric(for purchase) and pattern (for purchase.) We will also have two other selections of embroidery colors that can be stitched out that night, colors that go with two other pre-selected lines of fabric for use with this pattern.

Of course, at Sally's Fabrics we have an entire range of colors of thread that you can use in your embroidery machine. Come that night and see all of our new fabrics. And hopefully by that night we will be stocked with all of our new notions! We appreciate your patience. At Sally's Fabrics our goal is this: We want to be completely stocked with machines, fabric, and notions. We also wish to become your favorite teaching store... meaning, at Sally's Fabrics be prepared to not only find your sewing machines, fabric, and notions; but come to us to LEARN HOW TO SEW! On Saturday's, we also have our marvelous teacher, Lola, here to help you with your sewing projects. Call ahead (before Saturday, or she might not be here,) and Lola will help you with that project that "you just can't figure out." Lola is a whiz at sewing.

Okay - next....December 10th we will have our "Sew In, and a Movie" night. This night will cost you only $10.00, and that includes dinner - pizza and drink, and of course, will hold your spot! Call now, space is limited. Come and finish those Christmas projects that you want no one to see. Or, just come and enjoy as we stitch away and enjoy each others company. If that's not a good enough reason - come and meet a new friend. We look forward to seeing you for both.

KIDS CLUB - OCTOBER 2, 2010 - THIS SATURDAY!!

2010-09-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here is the project we will be making this Saturday at our FUN Kids Club. Sign up now - spots are limited!

Here are the supplies for these fun treat bags!

FOR ONE BAG:
2 - 7x7" pieces of fabric (inside lining)
2 - 4x7" pieces of fabric (outside of bag)
2 - 3x7" pieces of fabric (bottom of bag)
12" of 3/8" grosgrain ribbon

We will be making two bags so you will want to double the supplies listed above. I decided to put the supplies for ONE bag only in case students wanted each bag to be made out of different fabrics. I would recommend though that all of the fabrics for one bag coordinate.

The class will be from 10:30-2:30pm. Students will need to bring a sack lunch - and the fee will be $15.00 per student.

I hope to have a classroom FULL of kids. Sign up at Sally's Fabrics 480-833-7201 today.

Kids Club - October 2, 2010

2010-09-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCING - Kids Club this Saturday. We will be making two treat bags! I just wanted to give all of my faithful kids' club members a heads up to sign up!

Pictures and supply lists will be posted tomorrow. Remember club meeting time will go from 10:30-2:30 and will cost $15.00 per student. Also, bring a sack lunch - and look forward to hours of fun!

Out with the old in with the new!

2010-09-15T21:28:00.000-07:00

So... good news! We have recently received some new fabrics (we are more than excited!) Over the next few weeks we will be adding new fabrics and lines; but, to do so... we have to clear out the older fabrics. So at Sally's Fabrics we are marking down our older fabrics - most if not all of our older fabrics. If we've had it for more than a year, you get a discount. The longer we've had the fabric, the bigger the discount! WE HAVE GOT TO MAKE ROOM!

Sally's Kids Club Project - September 11th

2010-09-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

Hey all you kids out there ages 8 and older!! Just take a look at the photos below!!

Okay - so here are the details:

This is a pin cushion that involves very little machine stitching - it does teach new sewers how to do a blanket stitch as well as how to sew on buttons.

The pin cushion is fairly small measuring about 5" long and 4" wide in the center. Following is a list of supplies that will be needed for the class if your child is interested in signing up for a fun Saturday project.

Supplies

9" square of a green print

5" x 6" piece of a light green print

5" x 4" piece of a red print

(6) small black buttons

Medium-weight fusible interfacing

Paper-backed fusible web

1 cup of plastic filler beads or small bag of craft sand

The cost for this class is $15.00 and will be from 10:30-2:00 pm. Each child will need to bring a sack lunch. Call Sally's Fabrics at (480) 833-7201 to sign up today - class space is limited.

Upcoming Classes!! Saturday, September 11

2010-09-07T14:28:00.000-07:00

For all of you quilters out there this Saturday we will be having a MYSTERY QUILT class taught by our master quilter, Eileen. Class space is limited so, call the store to sign up 480-833-7201. See further information below...

FREE - Mystery Quilt Class

Saturday Sept. 11 starting at 9:30 am - Bring a sack lunch and have tons of fun! Call store for more details - will need to purchase a pattern but you can use scraps you have or swap with others there.

HUGE LABOR DAY SALE!!

2010-09-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

JUST WANTED TO MENTION...

WE ARE HAVING A HUGE

LABOR DAY SALE!!

Come in for a visit!!! I'd love to see what you are working on!!

Fabric Quality, Does it Matter??? - YES!!

2010-09-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

I was doing a little research this week on comments posted on the internet regarding Sally's Fabrics in Mesa, Arizona. I think it is healthy to see what customers think of your store. What I found was a comment that was somewhat positive and interesting. The customer LOVED our huge selection; but, at the same time, was disturbed by the higher prices of the fabrics, when compared to other fabric stores like Walmart and Joannes.

SO... I felt an explanation was in order...

I have to admit (and am embarrassed to do so!) that when I joined Sally's Fabrics five whole years ago I knew nothing about the quality of fabric... i.e. thread count, feel of the fabric etc... so, here I have sewed regularly for 20+ years and have been buying cute fabric, yes, a bargain, yes, but low quality, also yes.

So you may ask, DOES FABRIC QUALITY COUNT? And the answer is YES!

What I did to back up my opinion regarding this subject was I interviewed a lady who is a master quilter (one who is not associated with Sally's Fabrics.) I was very interested in getting a second opinion on fabric quality. And, this was her opinion:

"Quilting is such a fun hobby; and, it is time consuming. But, when a project is finished WOW you have such a beautiful project. The interesting thing though is I am adamant that when doing such an important project, sewers must use high quality fabric - that is, you need to look for fabric which has a high thread count, fabric that won't bleed, and fabric that won't fall apart while you are working with it." **April Price

In fact, with any project you are working on, if you are going to go through the process of actually taking the time to sew it. (I mean SERIOUSLY we can all find cheaper pre-made projects at the store) why would anyone spend money on low budget, low quality fabric???

NOTE TO MY FOLLOWERS: Buy your fabric to last a lifetime! I mean really, what would it be like to wash lets say, your newly purchased flannel from Sally's and have it come out of the dryer not all wadded up in a ball?? Or, how about buying flannel that doesn't ball up with multiple washings? And I have to mention our minky fabrics. I have a baby receiving blanket made from Sally's Fabrics minky six years ago! And, my daughter is still carrying it around! The minky is still as soft as the day it was made. That is even hard to find in a minky blanket bought in a high priced department store!

So... I guess the message I'm trying so hard to get across is, you pay for what you get i.e. QUALITY FABRIC when you shop at Sally's Fabrics.

At Sally's your fabric will last a lifetime!!

Project Monday

2010-08-31T08:19:00.000-07:00

Okay - Welcome to PROJECT MONDAY!! ...or TUESDAY :)

Project Monday is exactly what it sounds like--I'm going to try and introduce a new project, or at least a new "tip" each Monday. This Monday I thought I'd introduce a project for adults as well as kids being that we at Sally's Fabrics are trying to get kids sewing. I especially want those of you who think you can't quilt to listen (or read) up. I made this project - my first quilting project. Yay! Anyway, for those of you who don't know - I love to look at project magazines and books. I'm not always good at making up my own project; but, I can follow project directions. And what if I couldn't figure out the pattern you might ask? Well you could always come into the store and one of our friendly staff would be more than happy to help you out!

For this Project Monday I am introducing my new "Fast Tote." I got this pattern from Quilts and More by Better Homes and Gardens Creative Collection Spring 2010

Below you will find the directions. I pulled the directions off of the internet as a "free pattern." I found the directions very easy to follow, and was so excited with the finished project!

Quilting Bag 08-10

One more comment: For those of you who are not familiar with "Scribd" it is sooo awesome!! You can just click on the three buttons displayed at the top of the Scribd page and you can either enlarge the directions, you can download the directions, or you can print the directions. Isn't technology cool :) OR BETTER YET, YOU CAN COME INTO SALLY'S FABRICS! We have the full color directions as well as the project on display. I did want to mention that I used the Marcus Catalina line which I think is so fun.

Soo... onto our kids project like I promised!

This project was really fun, and actually really quick. It was so easy a 5th grader could do it. Ha Ha. When I was doing my school shopping for my children I noticed right away how many cute notebooks and folders that were in the store this year. So I asked myself, why go through the hassle of sewing on my notebook?? I decided not only does that make it unique; and of course, it is fun; but, I also used a "school calendar" notebook. None of those were decorated cutesy. You could also do this to a journal. Above, you will see the picture, next I will explain the directions. Note, as above, I used the Marcus Catalina line which we still carry!

This particular pattern I got out of Quilts and More by Better Homes and Gardens Creative Collection , Summer 2010

****Note: We do carry all of these fun magazines in the store. They are full of fun projects; and, I have been so impressed with the explicit directions.

Okay this project is called "take NOTE" First, the supplies,

*7 1/2 x 4 1/2" rectangle striped tone on tone (applique foundation)
*71/2 x 6" rectangle floral print (applique foundation)
*Scraps of assorted prints (unit)
*1 1/2 x 7 1/2" strip pink and gray print (band)
*6" square floral pattern with pattern centered

*Purchased 6 1/2 x 9 1/2" wire spiral-bound notebook (available at office supply stores) I bought mine at Staples!
*Glue stick, and *Spray adhesive oh... one more thing *an 8 1/2 11" piece of scrapbook paper to match your notebook.

Cut fabrics as follows:
1. From Floral 7 1/2 x 6" rectangle, cut to 7 x 4" rectangle
2. From Striped piece, cut 7 x 5 1/2" rectangle
3. From scraps cut, 1 - 2 x 2 1/4" rectangle, and 2 - 2" squares
4 From pink and gray floral cut to 1 - 1 x 7" strip
5 From 6" square cut 1 - 4 3/4" square

Assemble as follows:
1. Pry open spiral binding and remove front cover from notebook.
2. Referring to the above picture adhere floral 7 x 4" piece and 7 x 5 1/2" striped piece to notebook cover, avoiding spiral-binding holes, to make applique foundation; adhere fabrics in place with glue stick. Trim excess fabric along notebook cover edge.
3. Join short edges of assorted print 2 x 2 1/4" rectangle and 2 " squares (using 1/4" seam). MAKE SURE THE 2 X 2 1/4" RECTANGLE IS IN THE MIDDLE... i made this mistake :(. Once sewn, press seams open. With right side up, fold under long edges of unit 1/4" and press.
4. Referring to above picture, position step 3 unit onto notebook. Adhere with glue stick. Top-stitch unit to notebook cover 1/8" from long edges. To stitch through the notebook cover it is suggested to use a heavy duty needle; although, I was able to use my normal weight needle.
5. Referring to above picture, position pink and gray fabric on applique foundation to cover raw edges; adhere as before. Zigzag-stitch print to foundation along long edges. Trim any excess.
6. Turn under edges of 4 3/4" square 1/4" and press. Position square on applique foundation, adhere as before, and top-stitch 1/8" from outer edges. Trim top and right-hand corners of square even with notebook cover edges.
7. Zigzag-stitch around outer edges of cover.
8. Apply a coat of spray adhesive to back of 6 1/4" x 9 1/2 " card-stock. Adhere card-stock to reverse side of cover to conceal stitching. Reassemble notebook, bending wires back into place to complete project.

Note that if you want to use a different size notebook, feel free to do so! I did and I had to adjust my fabric pieces just slightly. I would LOVE to have you come into the store and ask me any questions! Until next time...

Kids Can Sew

2010-08-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

WELCOME!! Here at Sally's Fabrics we have had numerous questions about our ongoing Sally's Kids Can Sew program. This program, for those who are interested, involves girls and boys ages eight to ten. We are excited to teach your children how to sew, and realize that sewing usually takes more than just a few lessons.

At Sally's Kids Can Sew your children will attend a weekly sewing lesson for an hour at a time. These lessons will continue throughout the school year and will teach the "sewing basics." Sally's Kids Can Sew is actually a four year program filled with numerous projects and teaches multiple skills. In the first year your child will make 8-10 projects which include, three different shirts, pants, shorts, sleepwear, and a sewing bag just to name a few.

Prices are $45.00 dollars a month - the first month includes has an additional $35.00 fee for your child's workbook and year's worth of patterns. At Sally's we are dedicated to making sure that sewing DOES NOT become a lost art!

ANNOUNCEMENT**ANNOUNCEMENT**ANNOUNCEMENT

At Sally's Fabrics we have many sewing clubs geared towards adults. They are a lot of fun and hey, you get to meet many new ladies who share your passion for sewing! BUT, at Sally's we have gone a step further and are now forming a club just for kids. Our first meeting will be on September 11 and we will be making watermelon pin cushions. We will be meeting in the morning and ask that your child bring a sack lunch. Call the store at (480) 833-7201 and enroll your child today.