Video tutorial for my reversible messenger bag

Here's the link to You Tube for my reversible messenger bag, this would look good twice the size too!

Denim rings cushion cover

And here's one of the finished denim rings cushion covers!

My monk collection

Well here's something you probably didn't know, I collect monks! The first ones  came from my mum, and whenever I see another I just buy it! Most of them are German pre WW2, I just think they're lovely little characters! My mum's had crossed eyes, which I've learned was the artist having a laugh...

Denim circles

Cut 9 circles measuring 5" across, I used  saucer as a template,

Mark the quarter points by folding in half then half again.

Measure between the four marks and make a square template in card, mine was 3.5" square.

Mark all the circles, then stitch together in lines of three.

Join two threes to make six, then add the final row of three.

Using th card template, cut nine squares of cotton fabric.

Place these in the centre od the circles, use a little Stick And Stay for fabric by Crafters Companion to hold in place if you wish,

Fold over the sides of the circles and press. Top stitch either sides of the seams, this will sew the fabric squares in place.

To give a 'Shabby Chic' vintage look, take a scrubbing brush and literally scrub the denim until it frays! You now have either a cool cushion cover or a bag front if you applique this onto the likes of hessian...

My glam free motion gold cushion cover!

Nine 5" squares of Kaffe Fassett fabric from the Cotton Patch,

All sewn together with a 1/4 " seam allowance... then backed with fusible wadding.

Free motion embroidered hearts over the top of Angelina Fibres [ironed sandwiched in between two sheets of greaseproof paper],

And hand stitched a running stitch in gold thread.

Add some tassels...

And a backing of 9 squares fitted with a zip,  how glam!

Free motion patchwork cushion cover

Firstly I sewed together nine 5" squares of Kaffe Fassett fabric and iron on some fusible wadding to the back. I melted some gold angelina fibres to cover the front, then free motion embroidered swirls in black to attach it.

I started the braid by using a cording foot, but actually found it quicker with my standard foot and a zig zag stitch! No plan here, I just kind of scribbled over the top of the cushion!

The back of the cushion cover is an envelope style.

Now I just need somewhere to put it!

My sewing forum

I checked on my forum this morning, www.shortcutstosewing.co.uk to be greeted by a whole strand of posts like these! Made my day so thank you all!






Thank you all, I looked at the top 3 news items this morning and each one gave me valuable information I would never have thought of or got anywhere else. This is a fab forum - and we have our own Debbie to boot. 



Hi, 
Im a fairly new member as off this year. I too joined this site, when approaching my first experiences with where to buy and what embroidery machine to go for. 
I was extremely appreciative for not only guidance, but a lot of advice on getting started with buying cottons, fabrics, do's and don'ts etc. I wouldn't be where I am today, if is wasn't for the help and support and friendly suggestions from these lovely ladies on here. It made a massive positive impact to my early experiences and learning curves. 
Everyone was so friendly, welcoming and really made me feel part of a sewing group. Nothing was too much trouble to ask help with. 
So a massive thank you to all those Ladies!!


When i joined i thought I was quite an experienced sewer, but i have picked up so many tips on here from the members. The only downside is that i now have a list as long as my arm of projects that i want to do - inspired by all the photos on here!!! 
I love that the members are so helpful with advice and ideas, always willing to help with anything, there is such a wealth of knowledge out there. You've never let me down yet with any of my questions. Or even just interesting chat. 
Thanks everyone and keep up the good work. 


There is such an enormous wealth of knowledge on the forum and everyone is always so happy to help and are very forthcoming in sharing their knowledge. 

Keep it up ladies... I also believe this is one of the most friendly forums.