Posts

Shirring Tutorial

Image
  Shirring is a sewing skill that is much easier than it looks and it can really take your projects to the next level! The idea of shirring is that you use elastic thread in the bobbin to sew rows of stitching which will gather the fabric and provide excellent fit and stretch to a particular section of fabric. Shirred bodices are extremely popular right now, and you will also find shirring trending on waistbands, sleeves, and even leg ruffles. Even if you've never done it before, these tips will help you get it right in no time!  First we will give you the basics and then you can watch either the 1-minute TikTok video or the 10-minute YouTube video.  Or both!  SHIRRING BASICS:  * First of all, you will need elastic thread.  It is thicker than regular thread but easy to find at stores.  * The elastic thread is only used for the bottom thread, which means it goes in the bobbin. It is generally best if you wind it onto the bobbin by hand, pulling just eno...
Post a Comment
Read more

Printable Sewing Practice Sheets

Image
 Welcome to the Polka Dot Umbrella Blog! Today's free printable and project was intended to be for the kids but I ended up having way too much fun with it myself! If you have a little one (or not-so-little-one) you are teaching to sew, these practice sheets will definitely come in handy. Or, if you already sew and you're just wanting to practice some stitching skills yourself, you will enjoy the more advanced pages. The first page is for total beginners and then each page gets a little more difficult. Let's take a closer look!  First, you will want to download and print the sheets.  There are 9 pages but of course you don't have to print all of them.  You can get that free file here:   Sewing Practice Sheets Second, you might be wondering if we're SURE that it's okay to sew on paper. The answer is a definite yes. I would imagine that if you sew on paper all day every day there might be some issues with paper pieces getting crammed inside, or a dull needle, ...
1 comment
Read more

Welcome!

Image
Welcome to the Polka Dot Umbrella blog!  We are super excited to have you here!  We will be posting sewing tutorials, free patterns, and more. First, let us introduce ourselves:  Kristen, Owner & Designer I opened Polka Dot Umbrella in 2013, originally selling custom one-of-a-kind outfits for kids. I later added sewing patterns so you can sew my designs too!  I have 10+ years of experience drafting patterns and I have blogged hundreds of free tutorials during that time. I'm excited to bring that same energy to the Polka Dot Umbrella Blog!    Ellie, Designer I have been sewing for 10 years and I own Madeline Rose boutique. I have been designing kids fashion as an independent contractor for 6-7 years. Designing is my passion! If you want to stop by our shop, you can find it here:  Polka Dot Umbrella Pattern Shop We also have a sewing community on Facebook! Polka Dot Umbrella Sewing Community Stay tuned because we have some free tutorials on the ...
Post a Comment
Read more