Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Cheekyhandmades +++ Sewing classes, sewing machine servicing & repairs, quilt repairs. E17 London +++ ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/blog/) - [Menswear patterns](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/menswear-patterns/) - As with all things fashion and sewing related, men are woefully under represented in sewing patterns written for them. Shirts, waistcoats, PJs and joggers is just about what it boils down to. Safe, wardrobe staples, sturdy garments. Nothing very exciting sadly. But here is my small lowdown on menswear sewing patterns for what it is - [August, what plans I had for you...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/august-what-plans-i-had-for-you/) - I was in a creative practitioners' session in July and the workshop leader said she always takes August off. To go see friends, exhibitions, rejuvenate, and she see this as essential personal development. And I went FUCK YES that is what I want to do to. Rejuvenate. I know I need it badly. And yet - [2023 Sewing plans update](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/2023-sewing-plans-update/) - I made a list of all the patterns I really wanted to make this year back in December 2022. For years I had been buying patterns whenever I saw something I fancied, but only in an average year made a handful of things, often in preparation for a class so not even actually a pattern - [Sewing patterns to make in 2026](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-patterns-to-make-in-2026/) - I had a proper sort out of my patterns this morning and boy do I need to go back on a pattern buying diet again as I have qt least 30 I have bought and not made, some bought recently and some that have been waiting for me for years. Here is my list, I - [Welcome to Cheeky](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/welcome-to-cheeky/) - Welcome to Cheekyhandmades Here’s where you can find out all about my classes, my sewing machine repairs, my quilts and my blog. I run classes from a purpose built studio in Walthamstow, east London. I will also travel to most parts of London and those areas of Essex etc near-ish to me. My studio is - [Selfish Sewing Week](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/selfish-sewing-week-2/) - This week is Selfish Sewing Week. Where we mostly spend a lot of time sewing for others, this week you are encouraged to sew just for yourself! My plan for this week is to make blinds and curtains and cushions for the new studio, and make a new tunic top from McCall's M5050: I also - [E17 Art Trail 1- 16 September 2012](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-art-trail-1-16-september-2012/) - The 2012 E17 Art Trail, a wondrous two weeks of open studios, events, art, sales, workshops, parties, and putting Awesomestow on the map, is on this year between 1st – 16th September. This will by my third art trail, and this time I am hoping to rise to the occasion even more than in previous - [new year's resolutions](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-years-resolutions/) - I don't go in for the usual bettering myself new year's resolutions ( do I think I cannot possibly better myself? Best discussed at a different forum!). But this year I have made crafting resolutions. In short I am going to make even more stuff but chiefly things that have been in my head or - [E17 Art Trail 2011](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-art-trail-2011/) - I am SO looking forwards to this year's Art Trail, an open studio bonanza of more than 2 participants, ranging from established artists to children displaying their pictures on their garden fence. It runs from 2/9 - 11/9 and there is sure to be something for everyone. For more details please see www.e17arttrail.co.ukI am taking - [yummy chickpea lunch](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/yummy-chickpea-lunch/) - Thanks to Knitting on Trains' blogpost http://www.knittingontrains.com/ which came in just before I stopped sewing to eat my lunch, I am having gorgeous spicy chickpeas for lunch. Yummy. With home grown lettuce and a bit of sumac (yummy spice).Do check out the Knitting on Trains blog, it is always full of great stuff. - [things I covet](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/things-i-covet/) - Here are some gorgeous things I covet... Miso Funky I love Sewing Cassia Beck Prints Felt Bird Brooch Cassia Beck Prints Dea Beale - [Crafty intentions for 2013](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/crafty-intentions-for-2013/) - Another year, another set of best intentions! I don't think I did too well on the actual new year's resolutions for 2012 but all the same I made a ton of stuff. so, to recap I said I wanted to make: 1. Make something (bunting?) out of ironed plastic bags. I did make some waterproof - [Sewing cool clothes for boys](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-cool-clothes-for-boys/) - I have three boys but only one still young enough to like me making clothes for him, he is six and called Max and has great style! It's been really hard in the past to find cool clothes for boys. Luckily I'm not the only person who likes sewing kids clothes and wants to include - [Kids Clothes Week](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/kids-sewing-week/) - Amazing timing. The same week we had children's clothes making on the Great British Sewing Bee I've seen the next Kids Clothes Week advertised here. This a wonderful twice yearly online event with lots of pattern designers and bloggers showing off their funky new togs for kiddies. Of course we don't quite have the fabric - [New quilt commission](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-quilt-commission/) - It has been ages since I've been commissioned to make a new quilt and I've missed it. A lovely local woman who's got 6 month old twins (as well as two older children) donated money to my crowdfunding campaign in exchange for two quilts for the babies. We had a meeting and she showed me - [Crowd funding project for a new cheekyhandmades studio](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/crowd-funding-project-for-a-new-cheekyhandmades-studio/) - Cheekyhandmades is bursting at the seams in the current set up, and needs a new home. The loft is already converted but hey there is a huge garden outside so why not go outside to expand? Indeed, that is now the plan.I want to build a cool garden studio with room for all my sewing - [Cheekyhandmades' favorites](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/cheekyhandmades-favorites/) - Cheeky handmades' favorites on Flickr.Just some of the gorgeous sewing I have come across on FLickr... very inspiring! - [E17 Art Trail 2015](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-art-trail-2015/) - This year's art trail is now finished and I feel a bit flat, empty and tired. It was again (but more so this year) a whirlwind of art, crafts, meeting new people, hanging out with old friends, lots of alcohol and skipped meals, a hive of activity for 2 1/2 weeks, a re-confirmation of why - [Sewing mojo is back! - knickers and jeans ](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-mojo-is-back-knickers-and-jeans-2/) - I've been so busy and sometimes even just so busy in my mind and unable to get on with real life stuff that I've not done any sewing for me for ages. I've done the odd quilt block for the Farmers Wife quilt along but even with that I'm way behind. I've put my life - [What I'm planning for 2017...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/what-im-planning-for-2017/) - I have had an extremely productive year this year although I produced much more finished knittingprojects than sewn ones (it's a huge addiction now, I think about knitting ALL THE TIME!). Next year no doubt I will knit about a million shawls and socks but I also want to make other planned things. Some of - [World mental health day](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/world-mental-health-day/) - I want to talk about mental health today. It's world mental health day today, the 10th October. Mental ill health is something we all struggle with sometimes and yet easy as we may find it to talk about having a physical issue, people tend not to talk so easily about not feeling well mentally. This - [MeMadeMay #MMMay18](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/memademay-mmmay18/) - Every May lots of people take part in Me Made May. What this exactly means is different for each person that signs up. Some people undertake to make something new every day, some people undertake to wear something handmade every day, some people undertake to seriously scrutinise their handmade wardrobe to find what they maybe - [goodbye 2020, good bloody riddance to you](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/goodbye-2020-good-bloody-riddance-to-you/) - [Book review:Scrap house quilt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/book-reviewscrap-house-quilt/) - I had been meaning to buy this book for ages, having somewhere seen a picture of the finished quilt. But I must say the formula put me off a bit. It is available either as a download or a CD rom. I like a paper book to be totally honest, if I am spending money. - [Pennies per hour of pleasure](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/pennies-per-hour-of-pleasure/) - pennies per hour of pleasure I really want to share this great website with you. Pennies per hour of pleasure is a fantastic idea. It has excellent knitting and crochet patterns donated by designers, and merely asks you to donate according to the amount of pleasure you will derive from making and wearing this item. - [hello school term, goodbye art trail 2012!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/hello-school-term-goodbye-art-trail-2012/) - Wow, what an amazing few weeks it has been! The E17 2012 art trail has just finished (yesterday was the last day) and athough the first weekend was largely dominated by the foul EDL marching through our lovely Walthamstow (we love our mixed community thank you very much, as we clearly showed you!), the last - [Quilting course at The Create Place](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilting-course-at-the-create-place/) - I have been experimenting with funky pot holders (can easily be made as coasters or place mats too) and I am loving the result. To learn how to make these yourself join me at The Create Place on either Wednesday 18th or Wednesday 25th May between 6.30 - 9 for a short introduction to quilting.Lots - [cheekyhandmades is 5!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/cheekyhandmades-is-5/) - Cheekyhandmades is five! On 11th July 5 years ago I left my job at Whipps cross hospital. I had handed in my notice in April and by the time I left not only was I without a proper job, I had also just separated from my partner of 8 years, the father of my youngest - [Bespoke heirloom quilts, finished and delivered!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/bespoke-heirloom-quilts-finished-and-delivered/) - These gorgeous quilts were delivered to their new owners, the twins Emmeline and Benedict, today. Mum was so happy with them she actually cried! Order your own unique quilts here in my etsy shop: shop - [Cheekyhandmades Bloganniversary!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/cheekyhandmades-bloganniversary/) - Ok ok I'm a month late but all the same, let's celebrate. Cheekyhandmades has been around for 4 years. In these four years it's gone from a tiny spark of a dream to a grown up company. From trailing my makes around local craft fairs in the beginning to where I am now has been - [A little quilt love](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/a-little-quilt-love/) - I finished this quilt for an old work colleague. The first quilt I ever made was for her and she's ordered two more since. I experimented with pinwheels for this one as I'd always fancied a pinwheel quilt. I stuck to a limited blue and red colour scheme as per the brief. Probably the quickest - [Back to school](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/back-to-school/) - [How to Find Me](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/how-to-find-me/) - To get to cheekyhandmades you can either drive, or get public transport, or cycle. I am near buses, trains and tubes. See the contact page for more details. My address address is 13 Thorpe Crescent, Walthamstow, E17 5BY, London - [quilt-along class](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilt-along-class/) - I have decided to pull my finger out and do some Zoom teaching. This will be a subscription quilt along, you can join for one month, two months, etc, until your quilt is finished. Each week I will do some teaching, backed up with written instructions and photos/ videos etc. Then we will spend the - [What a year...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/what-a-year/) - How is it almost Christmas already?? I can’t believe how quickly this year has flown by! It’s been silly busy especially as I have taken on some work doing admin for the Walthamstow Trades Hall because I was so quiet with cheekyhandmades (of course that instantly meant that I got busy w cheekyhandmades again, sod’s - [I bloody love autumn](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/i-bloody-love-autumn/) - I’m in the middle of a working holiday in Utrecht. I’m house sitting for my friend Annemieke whom I’ve known since I was 14. She lives in a beautiful little house just outside the centre with her partner Peter and their two cats Betsy and Boris (they didn’t have to put up with Boris Johnson - [My perimenopause journey](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/my-perimenopause-journey/) - My perimenopause journey has been a hard one. Never before affected by hormones much at all, suddenly everything was upside down, topsy turvy and I wasn’t coping with the basics even. And I talked to friends the same age and so many of us weren’t coping. Relationships falling apart, work cancelled, people having breakdowns, crying, - [finished quilts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/finished-quilts/) - I have made some fabulous quilts in the last few months, 3 memory quilts and one quilt for a wedding, I have thoroughly enjoyed working on some new creations! - [Walthamstow Market #2](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/walthamstow-market-2/) - Some years ago I blogged about Walthamstow market and its fabulous fabric shops and it remains a very popular post! Of course things have changed around here but I’m happy to report only for the better for fabric shops and general shopping! We’ve gone all hipster doncha know and now have micro breweries and sourdough - [Repair repair repair](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/repair-repair-repair/) - I am absolutely passionate about repair, reusing, upcycling, reloving all things, be they cats or sewing machines or clothes or anything really. I can't even leave a dyeing plant in the supermarket, I have to bring it home and try to bring it back to life! I have been repairing sewing machines for about a - [My Scottish holiday](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/my-scottish-holiday/) - I've always been drawn to Scotland and have had some lovely holidays there in the past. My partner is from Paisley, near Glasgow, and I've visited both quite a few times since we've been together. This summer it was a right Scottish bonanza with two holidays there! First I went to a cottage next to - [Stitchy get togethers](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/stitchy-get-togethers/) - I've re-started my knitting/ crochet/ embroidery/ sewing club, the local Stitch n Bitch, after a few years' gap. We met last Wednesday night at The Bell in E17 and it was a great night. Lots of laughing and chatting and some stitching was done, met some new people and connected with old friends too. We - [February 2020 musings](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/february-musings/) - [A year of handmade - an update](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/a-year-of-handmade-an-update/) - At the beginning of 2015 I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't buy any clothes this year, apart from knickers and socks and maybe a coat if needed. All the rest including bras and jeans I was going to make. I had just got into making bras and had bought several jeans patterns - [working collectively](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/working-collectively/) - More and more I have been thinking about the way we self employed crafters work, especially locally. When I see someone starting to teach something even vaguley similar my first impulse is always to feel threatened. Of course! This is my livelihood! But this never lasts. It makes me realise I always need to be - [Summer meanderings](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/summer-meanderings/) - It’s been a great summer. One of many changes, all good. One of adventures. Both of the mental and the actual kind. Max is now 10 and I took him interrailing this holiday. We had wild plans of France and Italy, lake Como and Venice and the Riviera. But he’d underestimated how much he didn’t - [sewing machine repairs...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-machine-repairs/) - I love fixing sewing machines. I love seeing harrassed or broken machines being broiught back to life, cleaned and oiled and purring away happily. Unless your machine is a cheap plastic thing most machines an be coaxed back to life even after being ignored for years and years and the really old ones are utterly - [applique and free motion workshop](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/test/) - On Saturday 15th July the whole day is dedicated to appliqué and free motion embroidery in my sunny garden studio. This is such a fun and freeing workshop, the techniques take no time at all to learn and then you will spend hours creating pictures with thread and scraps of fabric. Applique and free motion - [why my sewing classes are different](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/why-my-sewing-classes-are-different/) - The longer I teach the more I find out just exactly how different my classes are from many other classes. I don't want this post to sound like me massively blowing my own trumpet as to me it's more about eradicating bad teaching rather than promoting myself. But hey if that means another few students - [Joseph Frank](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/joseph-frank/) - I went to the Fashion and Textiles museum last week, for a class in dyeing techniques. Before I went in I got to see the Joseph Frank exhibition which is amazing. Super colourful, positive, hopeful. A nice counter to the crazy negativity in the world right now! Here's some pictures: I always love going to - [cheekyhandmades' sewing book - the cat's still in the bag...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/cheekyhandmades-sewing-book-the-cats-still-in-the-bag/) - [et_pb_section admin_label="section"][et_pb_row admin_label="row"][et_pb_column type="2_3"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" background_layout="light" text_orientation="left" use_border_color="off" border_color="#ffffff" border_style="solid"] It's been a super long time in the hatching stage and we have come up against more problems than we needed but I am back to writing my sewing book and I am more than excited. It's been hard to find the right angle, I - [oops, and then suddenly it was june...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/oops-and-then-suddenly-it-was-june/) - I've been super busy and then when I did think to breathe and blog again my Wordpress app wouldn't let me. I'm still not entirely sure what's going on, it's all way too technical for me, so I'm meeting with my friend Lisa next week who's a techie whizz and who looks after my site - [Why do I teach, what do I get out of it...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/why-do-i-teach-what-do-i-get-out-of-it/) - When I first began teaching it was out of necessity, a way of making enough money to pay the mortgage. I had previously been making a living selling my makes at craft fairs which is not a good way to make a living! I mean it was fun but not financially rewarding at all. Teaching - [Sewing machine fixes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-machine-fixes/) - I fix a lot of sewing machines. Some are very poorly and need lots of TLC. But many aren't actually broken at all, just not used properly. Let me just run through some basics which you should look out for and which I regularly see in my repair shop: Wrong bobbins being used. Not all - [Sewing plans for 2016](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-plans-for-2016/) - I realised that I once again bought more patterns than I made last year so some of these are being carried over into 2016. I kinda feel I'm a bit late to the table with my 2015 review and 2016 plans but hey ho, I've been busy with work and life so here we are. - [Liberty in fashion - fashion and textiles museums London](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/liberty-in-fashion-fashion-and-textiles-museums-london/) - Today I went on a little trip to the fabulous fashion and textiles museum (Zandra Rhodes' baby) in Bermondsey, London. I love this museum. It's pink and orange on the outside for starters! It's small but perfectly formed and always has interesting exhibitions as well as a gorgeous little shop. They also have a - [Autumn sewing plans](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/autumn-sewing-plans/) - I've just bought myself some new patterns. I subscribe to Sew Direct which gives me a magazine full of the latest big name patterns as well as great articles on tailoring, fabrics, threads, pattern cutting etc. Some of the patterns are pretty vile, some very boring and almost all are made of fabrics I wouldn't - [just some nice pictures...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/just-some-nice-pictures/) - [E17 Designers Market](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-designers-market/) - SO I got in with the wonderful E17 designers and am doing the E17 Designers Market at the Asian Centre on Orford Road, E17 on Friday 26th November 6 - 10! V excited! Have also been talking to Sarah my lovely neighbour who supplies me with lashings of cake, sanity, fun and who has been - [Making a quilt - or two - foundation paper piecing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/making-a-quilt-or-two-foundation-paper-piecing/) - About 6 weeks ago I was comissioned to make two quilts for Rosie's little boys, Caspar and Leonardo. Rosie had used a beautiful fabric from Moda, "Simply Color" as bunting for her wedding and had kept it all and now wanted it used in quilts her children could use and keep. Great idea! Rosie diligently - [The new studio](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/the-new-studio/) - Seb and Joe finished up here on Wednesday. It was sad to see them go on one level as they've been amazing to have around and I sincerely hope we keep in touch. But obviously it was exciting to see the studio ready for me filling it full of paint and fabric and furniture and - [More on the new studio](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/more-on-the-new-studio/) - So I'm in my new studio, I taught my first class in there and it's absolutely perfect. It will no doubt take a while yet before I'm completely done and before my living room looks normal again but I'm on my way. Nice as the studio looks now, the living room (where I taught - [Painting day at the studio](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/painting-day-at-the-studio/) - Today a whole bunch of amazing women joined me and helped me paint the inside of the studio white. My fearless friend Milla went up the ladder to finish the outside of the studio, the bits I had found too scary and high, and Kate, Donne, Vicky, Nicola and myself tackled the inside, Milla joining - [Studio build day 9 and 10](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/studio-build-day-9-and-10/) - Yesterday all the gaps between the joists were filled with rockwool and the whole lot was wrapped in a breathable membrane. It wasn't looking too good at this stage with all the nasty logos all over it but it was water tight which was amazing. Then the boys busied themselves laying felt on the roof - [selfish sewing week part 2](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/selfish-sewing-week-part-2/) - I've finished my fabulous curtains for the studio and basted my 70s single bed quilt as well as my third mini quilt for the studio but due to all the building work I've not done much else. I did however just download the fabulous Lola dress from Victory Patterns... I will be working on this - [Studio day 6 and 7](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/studio-day-6-and-7/) - Seb was in his own on Saturday but still managed to put a whole load of the cross beams in. This process was finished by Joe and Seb yesterday by which time the whole box was cross crossed with sturdy beams. This morning the lads starting encasing the whole thing in a moisture proof wrap - [Studio build day 5](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/studio-build-day-5/) - Having woken up in the night to the loudest thunder ever, and some of the wildest rain ever, the budding studio held out well. Luckily the lads had covered everything up and apart from me sweeping a tiny bit of standing water off the surface all was well. In fact within half an hour it - [Studio build day 3 & 4](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/studio-build-day-3-4/) - Tuesday night the lads didn't finish pouring concrete for the posts (for the whole studio to sit on) until almost midnight. Thanks HSS for turning up with the mixer at 7.30pm! Grrr. Sean and I went to Bethnal Green to collect a HUGE sash window which had been donated to the studio by the lovely - [Day two of the studio build](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/day-two-of-the-studio-build/) - Today was a frustrating one for the lads. The hired concrete mixer is STILL "on it's way", it's now 6.30pm, and they had to drink tea and eat biccies for a bit as they had run out of things to do. Strangely they didn't like that as they like being busy! They are going make - [Day one of the studio build](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/day-one-of-the-studio-build/) - Day one was actually just half a day as Seb and Joe, my amazing builders, arrived at 1 ish. However they achieved millions in the four hours or so they were at work. First they set about demolishing a whole shed, scaring away many spiders in the process (including some fearsome and large False Widow - [Easy peasy PJ trousers tutorial](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/easy-peasy-pj-trousers-tutorial/) - Here's a super easy way to make your kiddo some new PJ trousers. 1 get some of their old ones and lay one leg on top of your folded fabric. If they are no too short or small cut some extra width or length. In any case add 1.5/2 cm seam allowance. Whatever you like - [A quilter's mixology book review](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/a-quilters-mixology-book-review-2/) - I ordered A Quilter's Mixology a couple of months ago and it has been begging me to make something from it ever since. I buy a lot of craft books but most of them are flicked through a few times and then parked on the shelf. This one however spoke to me. I loved learning - [Sewing machine reviews pt 2, Elna Grasshopper](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-machine-reviews-pt-2-elna-grasshopper/) - Last Christmas my dad turned up with this little beauty. She was made in 1947 and still purrs away today. I use her all the time as she makes a gorgeous straight stitch and has a tiny free arm. And looks so handsome too ;-) She is operated with a fold out bar which you - [Happy quilting](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/happy-quilting/) - Mainly a picture post. I'm working hard trying to finish two quilts for a set of twins. Have just finished the first one and due to quilt and bind the second one tomorrow. All done on my trusty Husqvarna 875q which is back from the repair shop again. Hurrah! - [My granny's scissors...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/my-grannys-scissors/) - I inherited these from my paternal grandmother. Now I don't even remember her ever doing any embroidery of knitting, it was always crosswords... But they are obviously well used and sharpened many many times as you can see. Glad to be using them still! - [Chinese tape measures - cause for much hilarity and wasted fabric](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/chinese-tape-measures-cause-for-much-hilarity-and-wasted-fabric/) - So last week I was running a beginners sewing class... Two students, two tape measures, two cushions in progress... So far so normal... Then I looked at one of the students cushion pieces and realised they were huge compared to the other's. I had thought it odd when the cushion lad measured in at 25" - [Crowd funding Studio update](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/crowd-funding-studio-update/) - My crowd funding campaign to help me realise the dream of building a new studio came to an end about 6 weeks ago. I've been extremely busy with work, studying and also in my personal life so I've not had much time to blog. Even though I did not entirely reach my goal I did - [God's Own Junkyard](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/gods-own-junkyard/) - Yesterday it was unexpectedly hot. Sean and I took a wonder over toward Walthamstow's as yet undiscovered joys just off Shernall street, via St Mary's church yard in the village. It was a lovely walk. What am amazing treasure trove to have right on my doorstep! God's Own Junkyard makes and sells amazing neon creations - [Studio for cheekyhandmades, update](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/studio-for-cheekyhandmades-update/) - All the crowdfunding campaigns are over. All the money is safely in a savings account. I've met with a local designer and plans are advanced. Work will start at the end of June and it will take around 6 weeks to complete. The studio will incorporate lots of found, reclaimed, donated and freecycled materials, and - [Bespoke hand stitched indigo quilt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/bespoke-hand-stitched-indigo-quilt/) - A long time ago I was shown photos of a quilt made in India, sold for a shocking price by a well known interiors shop, and asked if I could make something like it but unique to the client. Of course I snapped up the commission and I've been working on it on and off - [Utrecht, Netherlands, pt1](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/utrecht-netherlands-pt1/) - Max and myself are just returning from a week in Utrecht. I only lived near and in Utrecht for 8 years between the ages of 11 and 19 but it is a beautiful town which I love visiting. It will always hold a special place in my heart. My parents live in nearby in Zeist - [Spring photos, from London and Zeist, Holland](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/spring-photos-from-london-and-zeist-holland/) - [Bespoke quilts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/bespoke-quilts/) - just a cheeky little quilt photoshoot in the spring garden this afternoon with some input from Jasper and Theo - [Blue](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/blue/) - Some of my favourite blue things... - [Sewing plans](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-plans/) - I have finally pulled some patterns from my stash that really NEED to be made. Some I've had for over a year! I went on some crazy pattern buying sprees last year, some in paper format but many many more in downloadable form, which is kinda worse as I don't even have them sitting there - [Golden ninja costume](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/golden-ninja-costume/) - My 6 year old is obsessed with Lego Ninjago and really wanted a golden ninja costume. We searched everywhere but could not find one. So of course I had to make him one! We ordered "gold" fleece and shiny gold fabric and some green lining fabric and then I spent a week on and off - [Sewing machines I own...# Elna Grasshopper](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-machines-i-own-elna-grasshopper/) - I have to come clean, I have A LOT of sewing machines. Bit of an Ebay habbit combined with people giving me machines, car boot sales etc, and before you know it you have about 20! Yes, 20. So I thought I would do a little series of reviews on them. Some of them are - [indigo quilt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/indigo-quilt/) - I've been working on this quilt for a long time. Sadly as I was nearing completion I washed it and something ran really badly. Which was odd because all the fabric had been pre-washed. It near destroyed the quilt and eventually I decided to separate the quilt front and the back and take out the - [Walthamstow fabric shops](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/walthamstow-fabric-shops/) - I've lived in Walthamstow for over 8 years now and guess I've become a bit blasé about the amount of fabric shops and stalls that can be found just on the street market. It was only when I found other people telling me they were visioning from quite far away just to buy fabric here - [Elna Grasshopper & the quilt I made on it](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/elna-grasshopper-the-quilt-i-made-on-it/) - My lovely dad brought over this stunning Elna Grasshopper. She's an old girl, made as she was in September 1946! She is however in perfect condition and sew beautifully. Seeing as I had to try her out I made this lovely quilt entirely out of big equilateral triangles. I cheated and free motion quilted - [Mammoth quilts!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/mammoth-quilts/) - I have been working on a quilt commission for the last 6 weeks or so- not solidly, but interspersed with Open University reading, other sewing, teaching and of course, looking after my boys and myself! Anyway I have finished it now and it is winding its way to Taunton as we speak to then be - [Some pictures of what I have been up to this summer](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/some-pictures-of-what-i-have-been-up-to-this-summer/) - The adorable TheoFab charity shop find...Great photoshoot Hanging out with SupermanMade a quilt from vintage sheets and a gorgeous embroidered table cloth. Helped Max make stuff Went to Minnie's pirate birthday partyWhat a scorchio day!Minnie and Max. Made Minnie's dress with redound skill or shirringMade with Moxie Prefontayne shorts. Was given a beautiful Singer 201Went - [Sew Cafe](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sew-cafe/) - I have decided to start running drop in stitching sessions again. Once a month there will be a day where you can come and use the machines (sewing and overlocker), get some advice, get some me-time to sew, finish a project or just come and hang out and crochet! Tea, cake and me provided. £15 - [Sewing World magazine review](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-world-magazine-review/) - I had not read the Sewing World magazine before about a year ago so I cannot say how it has changed from what it was like before, but I know I like it now! And that isn't just because they like featuring my work, honestly (although do keep an eye out for August's issue which - [Some quilting, a tiny bit of spring...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/some-quilting-a-tiny-bit-of-spring/) - It is the Easter holidays so I am not really able to sew a great deal but I am slowly plodding along with some of the 8 quilts I am working on at the same time (!). The beautiful indigo quilts is waiting for backing material so is on hold now, I will post some - [Great British Sewing Bee...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/great-british-sewing-bee/) - How very exciting to see a whole series dedicated to sewing on British tv! I loved it. I did consider entering but a considered too professional and watching it tonight I think I would have done just fine.. It made me realise just how much I know! So if anyone in London wants to learn - [That was 2012, this is 2013](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/that-was-2012-this-is-2013/) - I have been a bit quiet, I know, but it has all been for a good reason!I took the Christmas holidays off to rest, spend time with the children, and think about what had gone well and what could possibly have gone better, and where I wanted to go in 2013. I thoroughly enjoyed the - [E17 Designers Christmas Market](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-designers-christmas-market/) - Cheekyhandmades will have a stall at the E17 Designers Market on Saturday 2nd December between 2 and 6. Shop local, shop handmade! - [Inspired: London, a book chokka full of London handmade design](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/inspired-london-a-book-chokka-full-of-london-handmade-design/) - The amazing We Make London girls have done it again: they have published a who's who of London designers working in the field of handmade crafts. And a jolly fabulous book it is too. And I am not just saying that because I'm in it! Tonight then is press night, very exciting! Must pack some business - [Quilts in progress](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilts-in-progress/) - I am having a nice gentle week with hand quilting and some machine quilting. I have almost finished the quilt for Mazzy whose mummy writes the lovely Mommyshorts blog. I have loved making this quilt and will be sad to see it go. But go it must! This week. And my dear friend Leo had - [New fabric](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-fabric/) - I got a lovely box today... Full on dots, stripes, stars, ginghams and plains... All the way from Holland. It looked so delicious I just wanted to dive right in! - [What I have been quilting](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/what-i-have-been-quilting/) - So... the children have been back at school a few weeks and my time is filling up rapidly. Very rapidly. From thinking I had seas of time when Max was first at school to realising 6 hours is in fact not very much at all has not taken long at all!I have made (and am - [garden and kitties](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/garden-and-kitties/) - [My constant sewing companion](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/my-constant-sewing-companion/) - With all this rain the cats have not really left my side and it has been a real struggle to keep them (and their muddy paws!) off my sewing. But this is a rather nice thing to look at whilst I work (even though he is curled up on some lovely vintage lace...)- Posted using - [Pieced patchwork quilt block](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/pieced-patchwork-quilt-block-2/) - [Update on monthly makes...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/update-on-monthly-makes/) - ...now we are officially in month three I wanted to update you on how I am doing with the crafty resolutions I made at the beginning of January. I haven't actually finished anything from my list I think but I has made other things, quite a few of them. However I really wanted to make - [great food packaging in my local shop...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/great-food-packaging-in-my-local-shop/) - Two of these I'm afraid are of the "what were they thinking about" kind of packaging that makes us giggle at Twat chocolate and Fanny face cream, whereas the tins of tomatoes, I actually really liked them as they looked kinda Orla Kiely, kinda Skandi 70s. So what made me giggle on the packaging of - [Happy Saturday](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/happy-saturday/) - Too busy for a long post so just some photographs today for you all to enjoy - Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - [A bit of Create Place lovin'](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/a-bit-of-create-place-lovin/) - I have had the pleasure to be involved with the Create Place in Bethnal Green for just over a year and wanted do a blogging virtual shout out to them. So hereby. The Create Place is a wonderful creative space on Old Ford Road, near the tube and overground and right next to the ace - [Learning to quilt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/learning-to-quilt/) - Today I ran a quilting course with the lovely Francesca, Lisa and Agnes. Francesca ambitiously undertook to make a toddler sized quilt from lots of patches so she did not finish this today, Agnes however made a quilt for her daughter's dolly and Lisa made a moses basket quilt and they both finished their projects. - [Grant money awarded for kids crafts club!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/grant-money-awarded-for-kids-crafts-club/) - KIDS CRAFTS WORKSHOPS AT THE MILLThe lovely grants committee at The Mill have kindly given me a grant to run kids' crafting sessions during the half term and school holidays. The first of these sessions will take place on Tuesday 20th December in the main room at The Mill. 10 - 12 { French knitting } { - [Knit and stitch show Alexandra Palace](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/knit-and-stitch-show-alexandra-palace/) - I went to the Knit and Stitch show again this year. I saw some amazing student work, bought some beautiful wool, some great buttons and amazing fabric. Thanks Eternal Maker, Affiliated Button Company, Beyond Fabric, Zeenah Shah, linentree, Tugba Kop, Becky Dodman, Craft Guerrilla and many many others for providing the quality and inspiration and - [autumn is on its way](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/autumn-is-on-its-way/) - My pumpkin plant is so huge it is winding its way into trees and around the rosemary shrub, and it has several pumpkins hanging down 4 foot in the air - one way to keep the slugs off!I have spiders and figs coming out of my ears and have my first apples on my baby - [Single parents are brilliant](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/single-parents-are-brilliant/) - I never chose to be a single parent. I too wanted to bring my children, born into a loving relationship, up in a loving relationship. But this unfortunately did not happen. How can the fact that my relationships broke down have turned me from a fine upstanding member of society into the single handed cause - [gardening and sewing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/gardening-and-sewing/) - I aware that I have been SO busy I haven't posted in a while, am determined now to at least post pictures on a regular basis as I am always taking pictures, no matter how busy. Here goes: - [cheekyhandmade lables have just arrived!!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/cheekyhandmade-lables-have-just-arrived/) - in preparation for the We Make London pop up shop I ordered some lables to be woven for me, it was though and go whether they would arrive in time but they just popped through the door and man am I chuffed!I feel like a proper grown up now - [E17 Designer Spring Market](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-designer-spring-market/) - Come and see me at the next E17 Designers Market on Friday 13th may at the Asian Center in Orford Road between 7 and 10pm - [Sewing classes this weekend](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-classes-this-weekend/) - Laura's cushionBeata, Laura and Yolanda hard at work cutting out their cushionsPolly and Claire's finished cushionsBeata and Yolanda's finished cushionsthis weekend I ran several sewing classes and a crochet class. Here are the gorgeous results. I am so proud of my ladies and their work! - [New ventures](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-ventures/) - The craft classes are running and proving to be very successful - and enjoyable! From March I will be teaching quilting workshops at The Create Place in Bethnal green on Wednesday nights. They run lots of cool and cheap classes in a fantastic venue, check out their website http://backtobasicsartsandcrafts.blogspot.com/p/workshops.html I am very excited to be - [Great craft books](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/great-craft-books/) - As I have a very serious craft book buying habit I was incredibly pleased when I was contacted by Iain from New Holland Publishers asking me to review some of their crafts books, none of which I owned or had read. Yesterday I received a box full of goodies and hereby are my reviews. Can - [crafting classes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/crafting-classes/) - SEWING/ KNITTING/ CROCHET CLASSESSEWING/ KNITTING/ CROCHET CLASSES I run several different sewing classes. I specialise in small and individual classes to really give you lots of attention. I can very much tailor each class to your level. I own some gorgeous vintage sewing machines, from 1890’s treadle Singers to a cute 70’s flowery number and - [New ventures!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-ventures-2/) - I have done well over the last month at all the craft fairs I have done and they have shown me which of my goodies are liked best and which were frankly losers. Now I am broadening my horizons. Soon I want to start running sewing and other crafting classes. I am just looking into - [Craft fairs and sewing galore](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/craft-fairs-and-sewing-galore/) - I am constantly surrounded by fabric at the moment as I had a weekend of craft fairs and an open studio last weekend and several more coming up. I did a sweet little quilting workshop with Elsie, she had made a patchwork quilt top which together we finished off and turned into a babyquilt for - [crafty craft markets coming up](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/crafty-craft-markets-coming-up/) - T'is indeed the season for crafting and hopefully making a little bit of cash too - [Halloween](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/halloween/) - Getting ready for Halloween...- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - [autumn is here...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/autumn-is-here/) - [Lots n lots of fabric!!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/lots-n-lots-of-fabric/) - Thanks to the lovely people at fabric rehab (www.fabricrehab.co.uk) I received an ENORMOUS stash of gorgeous fabrics this morning after winning their competition! I have never won anything so am very excited and feel like a kid in a sweetshop with all these gorgeous new fabrics! Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - [e17 art trail](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/e17-art-trail/) - made some little dresses this week, as modeled by the gorgeous Rubyyesterday and today I took part in the walthamstow open studio event, the e17 art trail.The weather held out and it was thanks to the lovely Sarah who lives a few doors down that I ended up in her gorgeous garden with my stand - [Minnie quilt cover](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/minnie-quilt-cover/) - I made this lovely quilt cover for Minnie's third birthday. Fell in love with it and found it hard to give it away. MUST one day make something for myself : ) - [Carter's Steam Fair](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/carters-steam-fair/) - Took Max to the steam fair today and he was SO excited! He went on every ride he was allowed on (alas no Waltzers or bumper cars) and watched the wall of death stunts. - [Flowers and cushions and kids](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/flowers-and-cushions-and-kids/) - What a very full day. I spent today with Sam and little Eve and my own Max, we ate millions of food in a cafe and then played in the park where it got all sunny n gorgeous. Back home I started making a cushion for Olive of Olive loves Alfie, the shop in Stoke - [Lucas quilt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/lucas-quilt/) - I made this quilt for my nephew Lucas' first birthday. He may not have been too impressed but his mummy and daddy loved it. As did I!Have had major upheaval here last few weeks with my partner and I seperating. He moved out last week and it is still all very acutely sore. Am looking - [New quilt for little Max](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/new-quilt-for-little-max/) - As Max's daddy is now living away from us I thought it was only right Max had a quilt there made by me. I had it on sale but have taken it out of the Folksy shop and given it to Max- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - [Sockpuppet and stuff](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sockpuppet-and-stuff/) - Dylan asked me to make a sock puppet for his friend Sean's birthday. Having just flicked through a wonderful sock puppet book we were both quite inspired. So whilst my personal life unraveled around me I crafted that man right out of my hair as someone once sang (sort of!) and made this little man. - [In the bath with my hat on](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/in-the-bath-with-my-hat-on/) - Today little Max insisted on bathing with his new hat on. Contrary to most kids who will not keep a hat on, Max will not take his off. Last night he howled when he had to take it off in bed. So here he is, in the bath with his hat on. And why not. - [Dylan's birthday, cake and sunshine. And waterfight!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/dylans-birthday-cake-and-sunshine-and-waterfight/) - Dylan will be ten on Wednesday and we had a little party for him yesterday. I made the best ever victoria sponge cake - see max attacking it! And then the boys got the hose out and soaked each other and everything near them. It was hot and sunny. Perfect day!- Posted using BlogPress from - [I think I found a template I like...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/i-think-i-found-a-template-i-like/) - And also i provisionally got a quilt order from a lovely woman at work, this time I get to make a girlie pink one (all have been boys' ones so far, am desperate for some florals and some dusky pinks). Have a boy one to make for the lovely Spike and one for the lovely - [Want to talk about my handmade cheeky quilts, quickly](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/want-to-talk-about-my-handmade-cheeky-quilts-quickly/) - So I have decided to leave work and chance the world of handmade goodies. I have made some gorgeous little quilts, terribly addictive they are too, there is just something about putting the layers together and stitching it that is scarily satisfying! Have a look see what you think...- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone - [Wow finally I am blogging...](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/wow-finally-i-am-blogging/) - SO everyone keeps telling me I must have a blog, and I know I do but frankly I have had NO time wot with three kids, studying for a degree, starting a business making quilts and things, and still working - but not for long now, 6 weeks to go today and desperately counting!. But ## Pages - [Home](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/) - Welcome to the Cheekyhandmades homepage sewing classes quilts (repair, making, finishing) sewing machine servicing and repair pattern and haberdashery shop Welcome to the Cheekyhandmades homepage. I teach sewing classes, make and repair quilts and service and repair sewing machines. - [Contact me](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/contact-me/) - Email: cheekyhandmades@gmail.com For quilt repairs please email cheekyhandmadesquilts@gmail.com Tel: 07944 863932 (Mon-Sat: 9-5 office hours only) Please note: Email/ text or WhatsApp is much easier than calling me as I often can't get to the phone but will always reply to messages. Getting here: Cheekyhandmades, 13 Thorpe Crescent, Walthamstow, London, E17 5BY Drive: You'll need - [Sewing Classes in Walthamstow & online](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-classes-in-walthamstow/) - I teach classes to all manner of people, on all manner of subjects (including bespoke topics), as private one-to-one or small friendly group classes, located in my studio, or one of my team can travel to your home too, or you can join one of my online classes. I am encouraging, flexible, ND friendly (undiagnosed - [Private Sewing Classes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/1-2-1-sewing-classes-london/) - In addition to group classes I also teach private, bespoke sewing classes. These can take place in your own home or in my garden studio in Walthamstow. Private classes give you flexibility to learn exactly what you want to learn, with a class tailored to your needs, at a time that suits you. Ideal for - [Soft toy repair](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/soft-toy-repair/) - I am a locum toy repair doctor, helping out They Shout Hello. I am not anywhere near as experienced at high end repairs as Katherine is, and will leave the really specialised work to her. But for restuffing, new eyes, reattaching limbs, embroidering noses/ eyes/ mouths etc, I am extremely capable. Can often do same - [Bespoke handmade quilts & quilt finishing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/bespoke-handmade-quilts/) - Quilts I make beautiful bespoke heirloom-quality quilts, which are totally unique, and tailored to your specifications. I can add names and dates, favourite colours and fabrics, match your decor, use clothes that carry special memories, or applique on that little something to make it extra special! Each quilt is designed after consultation with the client. A - [Sewing studio hire](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-studio-hire/) - Sometimes my studio is just not in use and then it is free for other people to use it. Or it is often only used by me and if you are happy to share the space it is a lot cheaper. My studio can hold 8 people for a meeting, or 6 people on sewing - [FAQ](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/faq/) - CLASSES Can you come to me for a class? Yes I am usually delighted to come teach you at your home/ work place/ cafe with friends etc. I do charge for travel and would need a proper set up at yours (decent height table and a chair, extension lead nearby). But other than that, I - [Sewing machine servicing & repairs](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-machine-repair-servicing/) - I have been servicing and repairing sewing machines professionally for over 10 years. Be they vintage machines or modern, as long as they are domestic machines I can usually help. I don't look after industrial machines nor do I do home visits but there are other mechanics that do. I don't fix timing issues or - [In person group sewing classes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/sewing-classes-in-east-london/) - ALL GROUP CLASSES ARE LISTED AND CAN BE BOOKED FROM THE HERE We teach our classes in my lovely purpose-built garden studio in Walthamstow, E17. You will learn in a nice informal setting, in small groups (maximum of 5), with unlimited cups of tea and a huge stash of fabric for you to use. My - [Checkout](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/checkout-2/) - [Online Courses](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/courses/) - [Mailing list](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/mailing-list/) - Sign up to my mailing list here to be the first to hear of new classes, offers, as well as friendly chat. Plus photos of my lush green allotment, flower filled garden, and my adorable cats, who just love giving me a helping hand in the garden and in the studio - shout out to - [ticket details](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/ticket-details/) - Ticket details [sc_event_tickets_details] cheekyhandmades@gmail.com - [wp All Courses](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/all-courses/) - [wpc_courses] - [Order Failed](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/order-failed/) - [Account](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/account/) - [Order Received](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/order-received/) - [Checkout](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/checkout-3/) - [Quilt repair, what we do, and how to get your quilt repaired](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilt-repair/) - I've been repairing quilts, together with my lovely colleague Amy, for many years now. Some are very old, some newer, but all very loved. Each one gets a bespoke treatment depending on what state they are in. All have been returned rejuvenated to their happy owners! - [Quilting services](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilting-services/) - I have been repairing quilts for many years now, with the help from the supremely talented Amy. There is almost nothing we can't tackle! Click here to see what we can do and to get in touch with us: https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/quilt-repair/ I had my quilt restored 2 years ago, Jennie was amazing! Very understanding and comforting - [Join in](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/join-in/) - sign up today to get this special download free This is the sign-up form that comes with the theme. You can connect it to an account or use it as-is to simply gather emails. If you need more flexibility, add a Custom HTML block and copy/paste the sign-up embed code provided by your mailing list - [Cheeky handmades](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/about-cheekyhandmades/) - Cheekyhandmades stands for believing that everyone is creative, everyone can sew, and everyone will walk away from their class with something they are proud of! Hi, my name is Jennie! I set up Cheekyhandmades back in 2010. I really wanted to use all my creative skills, skills I'd had for many years but never had - [Shop T&C](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop-tc/) - Overview This website is operated by Cheekyhandmades. Throughout the site, the terms “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Cheekyhandmades. Cheekyhandmades offers this website, including all information, tools and services available from this site to you, the user, conditioned upon your acceptance of all terms, conditions, policies and notices stated here. By visiting our site and/ - [Refund and Returns Policy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/refund_returns/) - This is a sample page. Overview Our refund and returns policy lasts 30 days. If 30 days have passed since your purchase, we can’t offer you a full refund or exchange. To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be - [Shop](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/) - Classes, Quilts and My Book Shop Categories - [My Account](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/my-account/) - [Class Calender](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/class-calender/) - Up and Coming Classes Sugar Calendar Event List Block Month to View Classes Sugar Calendar Block - [Order complete](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/order-complete/) - [sc_event_tickets_receipt] Thank you for purchasing Thank you for investing in yourself. I am so excited to have you on board for the class. Here's what you can expect next. What's Next Check your email Within the next few minutes, you will receive an email confirmation of your purchase. If you don't see it in your - [Products](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/products/) - [show_product_catalog] - [Ticket Receipt](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/ticket-receipt/) - [sc_event_tickets_receipt] - [Tickets Checkout](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/tickets-checkout/) - [tec_tickets_checkout] - [In Stitches, my beautiful and useful sewing handbook](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/in-stitches-sewing-handbook/) - My sewing handbook "In Stitches" is full of solid sewing knowledge, tips, and how-to’s, from where ti buy fabric to how to maintain your sewing machine - [The small print](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/the-small-print/) - Here's where I'm going to talk to you about the boring but important bits to do with bookings and money etc. In no particular order: Bookings Once a booking has been made and the money is paid your booking is confirmed. Until then someone else can still book that slot. Keep an eye out for - [Privacy Policy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/privacy-policy/) - Who we are Our website address is: https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk. What personal data we collect and why we collect it Cookies If you leave a comment on our site you may opt-in to saving your name, email address and website in cookies. These are for your convenience so that you do not have to fill in your ## Products - ['In Stitches' sewing handbook by Cheekyhandmades (Jennie Caminada) - 2nd edition](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/in-stitches-cheekyhandmades-sewing-handbook/) - My self-published dressmaking handbook full of solid sewing knowledge, tips, and how-to's! Everything a beginner needs, to more advanced skills, including: threading up and dealing with tension seams and hems sewing machine TLC understanding a commercial dress pattern basic patchwork quilting free-motion machine embroidery applique PLUS 5 super useful patterns All complimented by stunning photography by Simon Daley. 210 x 148mm, 76 pages, full colour - [Agnes top pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/agnes-top-pattern/) - Sew your own jersey tops with this easy-to-use guide. This sewing pattern includes step-by-step photo instructions and helpful tips for stitching jersey on a regular sewing machine – no overlocker required! Agnes is a close-fitting jersey top, speedy to sew and simple to fit, finished with a narrow band at the neckline. Choose from long or cropped sleeves; plain or ruched sleeves; scoop neckline or ruched sweetheart neckline - eight possible combinations. Irresistibly wearable and endlessly versatile, Agnes is destined to become a wardrobe staple that you’ll make again and again! SIZES - UK 6-34 - [Coco knit dress and top pattern by Tilly & The Buttons size 6-18](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/coco-knit-dress-and-top-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons-size-6-18/) - Make your own Coco, the perfect Breton top or knit dress with multiple variations. Simple to sew, Coco is easy fitting, with no zips, buttons or other fiddly bits. The perfect introduction to sewing knit fabrics on a regular sewing machine, the user-friendly instructions guide you through with a jargon buster, clearly labelled pattern pieces, and photos of each step. A year-round staple that's so easy to wear, Coco makes a great spring marinière top, summer tunic, autumn funnel neck or cosy winter dress. Designed for low-stretch knit fabrics, the classic style features a boat neckline, choice of top or dress lengths, three quarter length or long sleeves, with side splits at the hips on the top version. Make it your own with optional sixties funnel roll neck, rolled cuffs and patch pockets. Sizes 6-34 - [Stevie dress and tunic pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/stevie-dress-and-tunic-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons/) - With no darts, zips or set-in sleeves, Stevie is a satisfyingly quick and easy make. Perfect for beginners, it's no wonder Stevie is one of our bestselling patterns. Throw it on with a statement necklace and you're good to go! Modern, boxy fit, with easy-peasy grown-on sleeves Round neckline with choice of pretty tie or button loop at the back Make it as a top with a high hip hemline, or above-the-knee tunic dress Optional patch pocket and turn up cuffs Want to get even more out of your pattern? We have an add-on pattern for the Stevie tunic that gives you extra pattern pieces and instructions. The additional options include 3/4 length sleeves, smock-style gathered skirt and extra-large patch pocket. You can buy the Stevie add-on digital pattern here! SKILL LEVEL - Beginners SIZE RANGE: UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62 / AUS 6-34 - [Rosa Dress and Shirt Pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/rosa-dress-making-pattern/) - Rosa has a lovely, semi-fitted shape thanks to gently curved princess seams on both front and back. Our favourite feature is the pointed back yoke, which looks stunning highlighted with decorative topstitching. You'll learn to construct a two-piece collar and stand, with a separate button stand facing so you can make a feature out of contrast fabric. The three-quarter length roll-up sleeves are held up with narrow button tabs. SKILL LEVEL - Improvers SIZE - UK 6-20 - [Romy dress and top pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/romy-dress-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons/) - Upgrade your casual me-made wardrobe with this stylish (and comfy!) top and dress. The optional back ties or contrast binding add a fun twist to the classic Breton or t-shirt dress. Romy has a modern loose fit and high slash envelope neckline, with choice of cap, three quarter or full length sleeves for year-round style. Designed for knit fabrics, whip it up on either a regular sewing machine or overlocker (serger). Once you’ve made one, you’ll be hooked! SKILL LEVEL - Improvers SIZE: UK 6-20 - [Iris knickers pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/iris-knickers-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons/) - Learn to sew your own undies with this multi-style knickers pattern, created in collaboration with our favourite lingerie designer Evie La Lùve. Incredibly versatile, the different waistline, leg opening and finishing options make a total of 36 combinations! Mix and match low, mid or high leg and waist options Finish the waistline and leg openings with fold over elastic and/or narrow stretch lace A perfect project for scraps-busting your fabric stash Whip them up on a regular sewing machine! SKILL LEVEL - Confident beginners SIZE - UK 6-34 - [Jessa Trousers and Shorts Pattern By Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/jesse-trousers-and-shorts-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons/) - Ultra cool with a seventies twist, the Jessa trousers or shorts will soon become your faves. With wide, gently flared legs on the full-length trousers or turn-up hems on the shorts, they close with a concealed front zip fly. The high waist, curved waistband and back darts create a wonderful fit, while the triangle tab fastening, deep patch pockets and faux pocket flap will have you swooning while you sew. SKILL LEVEL - Improvers SIZE - UK 6-20 - [Frida Kids Dress Pattern by Two Stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/twostitches-frida-dress/) - A multi-sized classic dress with a twist. This simple a-line dress with a lined bodice has a pleated front which creates body and swing. The pattern includes a shortened version for a swing top. DIFFICULTY - Beginner SUGGESTED FABRICS - Light and medium weight cotton, corduroy, light denim, linen blends. NOTIONS - Button SIZES - 6 months - 9 years - [Max Kids Shirt Pattern by Two Stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/twostitches-max/) - A slim fit, short sleeved shirt, with a collar and yoke. There’s instructions for contrast sleeve cuffs and collar pieces to make a real statement piece. Dress up for smart occasions, and keep it casual for daily wear. DIFFICULTY - Intermediate SUGGESTED FABRICS - medium to lightweight woven fabrics, such as cotton, cotton blends, lawn, poplins, chambrays. SIZE - Age 2-14 NOTIONS Interfacing 7 x 15mm - 5/8” buttons - [Zara Kids Smock Dress Pattern by Two Stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/twostitches-zarah-smock-dress/) - A sweet childs smock dress pattern. With a gathered bodice, and a choice of either cap or gathered 3/4 length sleeves, and either a tie or a more simple button & loop back fastening, this pattern can be dressed up or casual every day wear. DIFFICULTY - Beginner SUGGESTED FABRICS - medium to lightweight woven fabrics, such as cotton, cotton blends, lawn, poplins, chambrays. NOTIONS View A: 50cm of 10mm elastic View B: 15mm button SIZES- 6 month - 9 years - [Charlie Kids Hoodie & Tunic Pattern By Two Stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/twostitches-charlie-hoodie-tunic/) - A modern version of the classic hoodie, this unisex pattern has a geometric twist with a triangular front panel, hidden pockets and a funnel neck hood to give a more contemporary feel. The pattern includes a longer A-line version for a tunic dress DIFFICULTY - Intermediate SUGGESTED FABRICS - Sweatshirt jersey, fleece back jersey, french terry, any medium to heavyweight jersey with only a moderate amount of stretch. SIZES - 6 months - 9 years - [Frankie Kids Dungarees & Dungaree Dress Pattern by Two Stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/twostitches-freddie-dungarees/) - A unisex dungaree pattern for children. With contrast facing for straps, bibs, pockets and turn-ups. Keeping in mind practicality, the pattern features an elasticated back waist, and buttons on the side. A dress version is also included. DIFFICULTY - Intermediate SUGGESTED FABRICS - Medium weight woven fabrics, such as cotton, cotton blends,linens, denim, pincord, etc SIZES - 6 months - 2 years NOTIONS 2x 40mm dungaree clips or buckles 25mm width elastic - 50cm 6x 15mm buttons 2x 20mm buttons - [Billie Sweatshirt and Dress Pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/billie-sweatshirt-and-dress-pattern-by-tilly-the-buttons/) - Billie is an ultra-comfy sweatshirt or sweater dress that you can whip up in an afternoon. Dress Billie up or down for a meeting, dinner date or Sunday on the sofa. It's a bestseller for a reason! Relaxed shape - not too baggy Classic crew neckline Choice of timeless straight sleeves or dramatic balloon sleeve with deep cuffs Top version sits on the high hip Mini dress version with cutaway pockets finishes 10cm (4in) above the knee SKILL LEVEL - Confident beginner SIZES - UK 6-34 - [knitted fabric sweater dress patterns!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/knitted-fabric-sweater-dress-patterns/) - Two excellent patterns for starting your sewing with knits journey. Both Billie and Coco come in size 6-34 and can be endlessly modified in terms of length, necklines, sleeves, colour blocking etc. Instructions for sewing with knitted fabrics are included with each pattern to make it easy for you to sew with knits on a domestic sewing machine! - [knit fabric patterns for beginners!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/knit-fabric-patterns-for-beginners/) - Buy these 3 fabulous patterns in a bundle and get working on knitted fabrics confidently! Romy top/ dress Agnes top Coco dress/ top - [Voucher for a sewing class - whole day (£130)](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/voucher-for-a-sewing-class-115/) - Buy a voucher for a typical one day group class here. Makes a great thoughtful present! Valid for a year and for a variety of classes, can be used for a group class or towards a private class in my studio (travel is charged as extra if you want me to come to your house). Or use it towards paying for a quilt or a bunch of patterns etc! - [cheekyhandmades voucher - £100](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/voucher-for-a-sewing-class-65/) - Buy a voucher for a sewing class or a product with cheekyhandmades. Valid for a year and for a variety of classes, can be used for a group class or towards a private class in my studio (travel is charged as extra if you want me to come to your house). Or use it towards paying for a quilt or a bunch of patterns etc! - [cheekyhandmades voucher - £50](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/voucher-for-a-sewing-class/) - Buy a voucher for a sewing class with cheekyhandmades. Valid for a year and for a variety of classes, can be used for a group class or towards a private class in my studio (travel is charged as extra if you want me to come to your house). Or use it as payment towards a quilt, patterns etc! Other amounts available, just email me on cheekyhandmades@gmail.com - [Cleo Pinafore Dress Pattern by Tilly & The Buttons](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/shop/cloe-dress-making-pattern/) - One of Tilly's most popular patterns, Cleo is easy to make and oh so comfortable to wear. Make it dungaree-style with buckles or as a pinafore with buttons, with mini- or knee-length hem, optional centre front split, choice of patch pockets and contrast topstitching. Wear Cleo year round, over a Breton top in the summer or with a roll neck and snuggly tights in winter. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without a dungaree dress! SKILL LEVEL - Beginners SIZE RANGE - UK 6-24 ## Courses - [Learn to fit and sew a garment from a pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/courses/learn-to-fit-and-sew-a-garment-from-a-pattern/) - In this course I will take you through the process of choosing a suitable pattern, learning to read it and determine your size, adjusting the pattern to fit your measurements, then cutting and marking your fabric, and finally learning the techniques needed to sew up your garment. I am passionate about teaching people the skills - [Learn to fit and sew a garment from a pattern - make the Cielo dress!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/courses/learn-to-fit-and-sew-a-garment-from-a-pattern-cielo/) - In this course I will take you through the process of choosing a suitable pattern, learning to read it and determine your size, adjusting the pattern to fit your measurements, then cutting and marking your fabric, and finally learning the techniques needed to sew up your garment. I am passionate about teaching people the skills - [Learn to use a sewing machine for beginners](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/courses/learn-to-use-a-sewing-machine/) - In this very comprehensive beginners sewing machine course you will learn to use a sewing machine confidently. Be you 8 or 88, be you a total beginner or someone who is self taught but lacks the basics, thi course will teach you all you need! I have been teaching for 14+ years and know what ## Units - [Sewing your sleeve and garment side seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/sewing-your-sleeve-and-garment-seams-in-one-go/) - Now that the sleeve is in it is time to close up the sleeve underarm seam and the garment side seam, which you can do in one go. It is REALLY important you pin at all the anchoring points first. End of the sleeve, notches, underarm seams, end of the garment, etc. Then add the - [Creating and sewing your sleeve in](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/setting-your-sleeve-in/) - Anatomy of a sleeve A sleeve when just cut out is probably the bit of your garment that is least recognisable! Sleeves take up considerable more fabric than you would expect as they need to wrap around your shoulder and give you enough space to rotate your arm. At the top of the sleeve is - [Grading, notching, finishing and pressing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/grading-notching-finishing-and-pressing/) - After you have sewn your seams you are unlikely to immediately move on! Notching Sometimes on a curved edge you will be asked to notch the seam allowance. This is to allow it to fit around the curved seam and not pucker. Notching will involve cutting a triangle of fabric away, with the point of - [Support and other stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/support-and-other-stitches/) - Basting Basting stitches are stitches that are made well within the seam allowance usually, to hold things together until they are later stitched into a seam, too hold layers together so they don't shift, or a zip in the place it will be stitched properly later. You can also use it to hold pleats etc - [After cutting out](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/after-cutting-out/) - I always leave at least one pin in, as you do not yet want to separate your pattern and your fabric. It would be super easy at this stage to lose track of what is the front and what is the back for example. Also if you have forgotten to put the notches in, it - [Cutting Cielo pattern pieces and interfacing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/cutting-cielo-pattern-pieces-and-interfacing/) - Make sure you cut all the pieces you need and cut the correct amount. The neck facings are on the fold, as are the front and back and the front pockets. The sleeves are not on the fold but mind the grainline! Check how many cuffs you are cutting, the gathered sleeve cuts need 4, - [Cielo darts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/cielo-darts/) - I have found that the Cielo darts are so miraculously well designed that they fit absolutely everyone! I have been teaching this class for years and must have made this with 50 women of all different sizes and shapes and they all fit in to this lovely bust dart! - [Measurements specifically for the Cielo pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/measurements-specifically-for-the-cielo-pattern/) - The Cielo instructions may include charts for options you may not have printed off/ been sent. There are options for sizes in the 0-20 range and for a 14-32 range. If you fall in both charts you may want to have a look at both size ranges and choose accordingly. For info I cut out - [Cielo: Which pieces do we need to cut out?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/what-then-do-we-need-to-cut-out/) - We will be making version C, and then you can either use version C sleeves (short cuffed sleeves) or use the sleeves from version D. You will need to cut pattern pieces D (dress front), E (dress pockets), B (back), C (back shoulder), F (front facing), G (back facing), and then either I and J - [The Cielo dress/ top pattern and its variations](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/the-pattern-and-its-variations/) - The Cielo dress and top is a very fun and versatile beginners pattern. The dress has brilliant pockets, which are fun (albeit a little unusual!) to put together, it has two sleeve options and two cuff options, and there is the top version as well, which again can be made with the statement sleeves or - [Choosing a suitable pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/choosing-a-suitable-pattern/) - There is quite a lot more to choosing a pattern to sew from than just grabbing one that looks great in the shop! Some patterns just are easier to use than others and many are NOT beginner friendly at all despite often having 'easy' or 'quick' in the title! Big 4 or Indie? There are - [Choosing a suitable pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/choosing-a-suitable-pattern-3/) - There is quite a lot more to choosing a pattern to sew from than just grabbing one that looks great in the shop! Some patterns just are easier to use than others and many are NOT beginner friendly at all despite often having 'easy' or 'quick' in the title! Big 4 or Indie? There are - [Sleeves](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/sleeves/) - Here we start working on the sleeves. Gathering, setting them in to the armhole, adding cuffs even, and closing the sleeve underarm seam! - [Pressing matters](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/pressing-matters-2/) - What tools do I need? + a full size iron, ideally a steam one. I also have a small one which is great for keeping next to your sewing machine and is surprisingly capable! I think they are sold as quilting irons online. + an ironing board - this can be a table top one - [Slinky fabric like viscose etc](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/slinky-fabric-like-xxx/) - I would say avoid these if at all possible. These are a nightmare to cut out and a nightmare to sew with and are usually 100% plastic to boot so not comfortable to wear! They are cheap to buy and often have really fun patterns but they don't have much structure and will not be - [Bags etc!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/and-more-3/) - [Tools I love and would not be without!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/tools-i-love-and-would-not-be-without/) - [Sewing with tricky fabrics!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/sewing-with-tricky-fabrics/) - Here I will discuss using fabric that isn't super straightforward. Denim, pvc, jersey, etc. - [Cielo sleeves](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/cielo-sleeves/) - Here we will create and set in the sleeves for your Cielo dress! - [Sewing the Cielo dress: Creating the back, sewing the darts and pockets and attaching the facing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/sewing-the-cielo-dress-creating-the-back-sewing-the-darts-and-pockets-and-attaching-the-facing/) - Next we are going to start sewing! We will use the Cielo pattern and create the back, attach the front panels together to create the pockets, attach the front to the back at the shoulders, and create and attach the facing. Quite a chunky chapter so take your time! Lots of new techniques! - [Cutting out your fabric pieces and interfacing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/cutting-layouts-in-your-pattern-instructions-3/) - Cutting layouts in your pattern instructions I never use the cutting layouts suggested in the pattern instructions, for a variety of reasons. Here I explain why I don't and what I do instead. Of course you can do whatever works for you! Pattern instruction booklets generally give you very detailed cutting layouts. They will often - [How to pin and sew darts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/how-to-pin-and-sew-your-dart-3/) - Darts are most usually triangular with the base on a fabric edge and the point on your fabric. The point would be on or near your most curvy part, your bust apex, or your bum curve etc. Some darts are diamond shape, for example on the back of a shirt with the top finishing just - [Pinning and stitching your seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/pinning-and-stitching-your-seams-3/) - When you are pinning seams it is really important to be methodical. If you start at one end and just go got it the two edges will not fit together, fact. You always start by anchoring your seams with pins: at either end, the notches, seams and only THEN you place the remaining pins. You - [Marking your seam allowance](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/marking-your-seam-allowance-2/) - Somewhere on your pattern it will tell you what the seam allowance is that you are working with. It is usually either 5/8" (1.6cm) or 1cm, depending on where the designer is from. It is IMPERATIVE you mark this accurately and stick to it or you will find things not fitting properly together etc. Lots - [Transferring marks](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/transferring-marks-3/) - For this step you will need a removable fabric marker or a thin chalk pen, pins, and small sharp scissors. Once you have cut your fabric pieces do not remove your pins just yet. Now you need to cut the notches, transfer dart and placement marks etc. See above for the most common marks. I - [Securing and cutting pattern pieces](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/securing-and-cutting-pattern-pieces-3/) - Pins or weights? Once you have folded your fabric you will need to lay out your pattern pieces and secure them. You can use dedicated pattern weights, or cups of tea/ rocks/ tins of beans. I always used to use weights instead of pins as it is quick to put them down and quick to - [Grainline - what is it and why does it matter?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/grainline-what-is-it-and-why-does-it-matter-2/) - In a woven fabric you will have threads running parallel to the selvedge and threads running perpendicular to this. The ones running along the selvedge are the ones on the grainline. The fabric stretches in a slightly differently way along the grainline than if you pulled it across the grainline. And if you pull your - [Measuring, choosing a size & grading/ altering a pattern to fit](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/measuring-choosing-a-size-grading-altering-a-pattern-to-fit-3/) - Tools Rulers – mostly clear quilting rulers Pencil/ pen Fabric marker French curve ruler Scissors When making your own clothes it is VITAL to never just pick the size you would buy in the shops. First of all most people are not the same size in the hips as in the bust for example. Also - [Resources and fit for larger bodies](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-18/resources-and-fit-for-larger-bodies-2/) - [Dressmaking glossary](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/dressmaking-glossary-3/) - ArmscyeThe armscye or armhole is the opening in the bodice where you attach the sleeve. Seam allowanceThe extra fabric added to the pattern pieces to allow for seams. Backstitch2 or 3 reverse stitches to secure the stitches at the beginning and end of a seam. A backstitch (or a back tack )will secure the stitches and prevent - [Reading a pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/reading-a-pattern-3/) - Symbols Most symbols used in most sewing patterns are fairly universal, so there isn't a huge new language to learn there. Most pattern designers will include a key to what symbols they have used and if not you can always google it. Not all patterns include all symbols and some designers use say little triangles - [Create the back](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/create-the-back/) - [creating and attaching the neck facing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/creating-and-attaching-the-neck-facing/) - [Mark and sew the pockets](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/mark-and-sew-the-pockets/) - [Attach the front and the back](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/attach-the-front-and-the-back/) - [Separating zips](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-14/separating-zips/) - [Exposed non separating zips](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-14/exposed-non-separating-zips/) - [Invisible zips](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-14/invisible-zips/) - [Cielo sleeve hacks](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/cielo-sleeve-hacks/) - [Simple sleeves and cuffs](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/simple-sleeves-and-cuffs/) - [Gathered sleeve and cuffs](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/gathered-sleeve-and-cuffs/) - [Hemming](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/hemming-3/) - Try on your garment to determine how long you want it, and then decide on a hem. You can of course always follow the instructions from your pattern but sometimes it is fun to play with the depth of you hem. I Like my hems to be around 2/3 cm deep and no smaller. Small - [Neckline finishes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/neckline-finishes-3/) - Generally you would finish a rounded neckline in one of the following ways: facing bias binding a collar I would follow the instructions until you are very familiar with how facings and bias binding works and then you can go off piste after and decide to use one instead of the other, or even change - [hack your pattern!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/hack-your-pattern-2/) - Rather than keep making brand new patterns with all the cost of buying new patterns and all the challenges of creating a good fit for each new pattern and learning new techniques, it can be fun to adapt a pattern you have made before and that fits you well, to incorporate new design elements to - [Stretchy fabrics](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/stretchy-fabrics-3/) - Sewing with stretchy (knitted) fabrics can be extremely challenging. I still remember the first time I cut up an old t shirt and tried to make a dress for my Barbie. The fabric stretched out of all recognition and I didn't touch jersey again for decades (I was about 8 at the time of my - [Denim](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/denim-3/) - Denim is pretty easy to sew with as long as you take some things into account. There are many different weights of denim from thin to canvas like super chunky. There is denim with stretch and denim with coating etc. Adjust your needle according to the weight you are sewing with, thicker fabrics require a - [Corduroy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/corduroy/) - There are many different kinds of cord, from cord with tiny needle ridges to massive chunky jumbo cord. The wider the ridges (wales) are the more complicated it is to sew with cord. The raised welts can slide off each other and making neat seams can be hard. There is also the nap of the - [Sewing with plastic](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-16/sewing-with-plastic-2/) - It is completely possible to sew with pvc on a domestic sewing machine as long as you use some special tools. Plastic is sticky and if you don't prepare your fabric won't be transported neatly (or at all!) by your machine and you can end up with very short stitches. Use a teflon foot which - [pattern companies I adore](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/pattern-companies-i-adore-3/) - [Kids patterns](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/kids-patterns-3/) - The Foldline kids patterns - [Women's wear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/womens-wear-3/) - [Menswear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/menswear-3/) - [Fabric shops I love](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-17/fabric-shops-i-love-3/) - Just a small selection of where I shop Raystitch - https://www.raystitch.co.uk/Pound fabrics - https://poundfabrics.co.uk/Fabric Godmother - https://www.fabricgodmother.co.uk/Merchant & Mills - https://merchantandmills.comMyfabrics - https://www.myfabrics.co.uk/Fabrics Galore - https://www.fabricsgalore.co.uk/Frumble - https://frumble.co.uk/Dalston Mills https://www.dalstonmillfabrics.co.ukSaeed's fabrics Walthamstow Market and in fact all of Walthamstow Market is amazing!! - [Why doesn't it fit - Assessment and adjustments](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/why-doesnt-it-fit-assessment-and-adjustments-2/) - Why doesn't it fit - Assessment 1. Did you take your measurements at the beginning of the process? 2. Did you choose the right size? Picking the right size in a pattern is essential to getting a good fit. There is a lot of variation between sewing pattern brands as to the amount of ease, and - [Cutting and attaching interfacing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/cutting-and-attaching-interfacing-2/) - I tend not to use pattern pieces to cut the interfacing. I do not want any of my interfacing to accidentally stick out beyond the sides of the fabric as it can end up sticking to your iron etc. Instead I lay the pattern piece under the interfacing, and 'trace" about 1cm inside the pattern - [Test and adjust your dart](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/test-and-adjust-your-dart-3/) - Try on your garment right way round and see whether the dart makes the bust look good. Too pointy? The dart is probably too close to your nipple, move the end of the dart out a bit, redraw from this new point and re-stitch and see if that looks better. dart point lower than your - [Sewing your final dart and pressing it](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/sewing-your-final-dart-and-pressing-it-3/) - In order to make your dart nice and strong and for it not to unravel after one wear, I stitch the last few centimeters of my dart on a very shirt stitch length, 1, rather than the normal 2.5. When I hit the exact point where my dart point is I would like to have - [Unpicking stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/unpicking-stitches-2/) - We all have to unpick things sometimes! You will need a stitch unpicker and the video below, as there is a safe and easy way to unpick and also a slow and messy and potentially unsafe way to(as in you can cut holes in your fabric!). - [Making a toile?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/making-a-toile/) - [Pinning and stitching your seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/pinning-and-stitching-your-seams/) - When you are pinning seams it is really important to be methodical. If you start at one end and just go got it the two edges will not fit together, fact. You always start by anchoring your seams with pins, at either end, the notches, and seam, and then you place the remaining pins. You - [Support and other stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/basting/) - Basting Basting stitches are stitches that are made well within the seam allowance usually, to hold things together until they are later stitched into a seam, too hold layers together so they don't shift, or a zip in the place it will be stitched properly later. You can also use it to hold pleats etc - [Measuring, choosing a size & grading/ altering a pattern to fit](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/measuring-choosing-a-size-grading-altering-a-pattern-to-fit/) - Tools Rulers – mostly clear quilting rulers Pencil/Pen Fabric Marker French Curve ruler Scissors When making your own clothes it is VITAL to never just pick the size you would buy in the shops. First of all most people are not the same size in the hips as in the bust for example. Also older - [Dressmaking glossary](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/dressmaking-glossary/) - ArmscyeThe armscye or armhole is the opening in the bodice where you attach the sleeve. Seam allowanceThe extra fabric added to the pattern pieces to allow for seams. Backstitch2 or 3 reverse stitches to secure the stitches at the beginning and end of a seam. A backstitch (or a back tack )will secure the stitches and prevent - [Gathering](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/gathering/) - [Stay stitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/stay-stitching/) - [Understitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/understitching/) - [Top and edge stitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/top-and-edge-stitching/) - [Fabric shops I love](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/fabric-shops-i-love/) - Just a small selection of where I shop Raystitch - https://www.raystitch.co.uk/Pound fabrics - https://poundfabrics.co.uk/Fabric Godmother - https://www.fabricgodmother.co.uk/Merchant & Mills - https://merchantandmills.comMyfabrics - https://www.myfabrics.co.uk/Fabrics Galore - https://www.fabricsgalore.co.uk/Frumble - https://frumble.co.uk/Dalston Mills https://www.dalstonmillfabrics.co.ukSaeed's fabrics Walthamstow Market and in fact all of Walthamstow Market is amazing!! - [Sewing with plastic](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/sewing-with-plastic/) - It is completely possible to sew with pvc on a domestic sewing machine as long as you use some special tools. Plastic is sticky and if you don't prepare your fabric won't be transported neatly (or at all!) by your machine and you can end up with very short stitches. Use a teflon foot which - [Corduroy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/cord/) - There are many different kinds of cord, from cord with tiny needle ridges to massive chunky jumbo cord. The wider the ridges (wales) are the more complicated it is to sew with cord. The raised welts can slide off each other and making neat seams can be hard. There is also the nap of the - [Stretchy fabrics](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/stretchy-fabrics/) - Sewing with stretchy (knitted) fabrics can be extremely challenging. I still remember the first time I cut up an old t shirt and tried to make a dress for my Barbie. The fabric stretched out of all recognition and I didn't touch jersey again for decades (I was about 8 at the time of my - [Denim](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/denim/) - Denim is pretty easy to sew with as long as you take some things into account. There are many different weights of denim from thin to canvas like super chunky. There is denim with stretch and denim with coating etc. Adjust your needle according to the weight you are sewing with, thicker fabrics require a - [hack your pattern!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/hack-your-pattern/) - Rather than keep making brand new patterns with all the cost of buying new patterns and all the challenges of creating a good fit for each new pattern and learning new techniques, it can be fun to adapt a pattern you have made before and that fits you well, to incorporate new design elements to - [Neckline finishes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/neckline-finishes/) - Generally you would finish a rounded neckline in one of the following ways: facing bias binding a collar I would follow the instructions until you are very familiar with how facings and bias binding works and then you can go off piste after and decide to use one instead of the other, or even change - [Hemming](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/hemming/) - Try on your garment to determine how long you want it, and then decide on a hem. You can of course always follow the instructions from your pattern but sometimes it is fun to play with the depth of you hem. I Like my hems to be around 2/3 cm deep and no smaller. Small - [Setting your sleeve in](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/gathering-your-sleeve-cap/) - Anatomy of a sleeve A sleeve when just cut out is probably the bit of your garment that is least recognisable! Sleeves take up considerable more fabric than you would expect as they need to wrap around your bicep and then some and reach from your shoulder down. At the top of the sleeve is - [Sewing your sleeve and garment seams in one go](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/pinning-and-sewing-your-sleeve/) - Now that the sleeve is in it is time to close up the sleeve underarm seam and the garment side seam, which you can do in one go. It is REALLY important you win at all the anchoring points first. End of the sleeve, notches, underarm seams, mend of the garment, etc. Then add the - [Add a cuff or hem to the sleeve](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/add-a-cuff-or-hem-to-the-sleeve/) - [Anatomy of a sleeve](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/anatomy-of-a-sleeve/) - [When to add the sleeve](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/when-to-add-the-sleeve/) - Despite what instructions tell you I always now add the sleeve in "flat". This means I out it in when you can lay the armhole and the sleeve flat, I before you have closed the garment side seam or the sleeve underarm seam. It just is 1000x easier! - [Pressing matters](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/pressing-copy/) - What tools do I need? an iron, ideally a steam one. I also have a small one which is great for keeping next to your sewing machine and is surprisingly capable! I think they are sold as quilting irons online an ironing board - this can be a table top one a pressing cloth. I - [Unpicking stitches](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/unpicking-stitches/) - We all have to unpick things sometimes! You will need a stitch unpicker and the video below, as there is a safe and easy way to unpick and also a slow and messy and potentially unsafe way to(as in you can cut holes in your fabric!). - [Grading, notching, finishing and pressing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/grading-notching-and-finishing/) - After you have created your seams you don't just walk away from them and move on to the next bit. Often the pattern will ask you to reduce on or both of the seam allowances to reduce bulk. You can do this by cutting the seam allowance down/ in half/ whatever the pattern specifies. It - [Easing in](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/easing-in/) - [Marking your seam allowance](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/marking-your-seam-allowance/) - Somewhere on your pattern it will tell you what the seam allowance is that you are working with. It is usually either 5/8" (1.6cm) or 1cm, depending on where the designer is from. It is IMPERATIVE you mark this accurately and stick to it or you will find things not fitting properly together etc. Lots - [Shirring](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/shirring/) - [Cutting and attaching interfacing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/cutting-and-attaching-interfacing/) - I tend not to use pattern pieces to cut the interfacing. I do not want any of my interfacing to accidentally stick out beyond the sides of the fabric as it can end up sticking to your iron etc. Instead I lay the pattern piece under the interfacing, and 'trace" about 1cm inside the pattern - [Transferring marks](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/transferring-marks/) - For this step you will need a removable fabric marker or a thin chalk pen, pins, and small sharp scissors. Once you have cut your fabric pieces keep the pins in. Now you need to cut the notches, transfer dart and placement marks etc. See above for the most common marks. Notches I always turn - [Securing and cutting pattern pieces](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/securing-and-cutting-pattern-pieces/) - Pins or weights? Once you have folded your fabric you will need to lay out your pattern pieces and secure them. You can use dedicated pattern weights, or cups or tea/ rocks/ tins of beans. I always used weights instead of pins as it is quick to put them down and quick to remove them - [Cutting layouts in your pattern instructions](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/cutting-layouts-in-your-pattern-instructions/) - I never use the cutting layouts suggested in the pattern instructions, for a variety of reasons. Here I explain why I don't and what I do instead. Of course you can do whatever works for you! Pattern instruction booklets generally give you very detailed cutting layouts. They will often specify a layout for different widths - [Grainline - what is it and why does it matter?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/grainline/) - In a woven fabric you will have threads running parallel to the selvedge and threads running perpendicular to this. The ones running along the selvedge are the ones on the grainline. The fabric stretches in a slightly differently way along the grainline than if you pulled it across the grainline. And if you pull your - [After you have cut each piece](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/after-you-have-cut-each-piece/) - Do a final check for all the notches and marks.Do not remove all the pins and do not separate the paper piece from the cut fabric. You will never remeber whether that was a front or a back waistband, or which way up it needed to go. It is much easier to identify pieces with - [Resources and fit for larger bodies](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/resources-and-fit-for-larger-bodies/) - [Fastenings](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/fastenings/) - [Choosing a sewing machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/choosing-a-sewing-machine-2/) - Which sewing machine you buy is really important. Lots of machines are rubbish and it is vital you invest in a tool that works reliably and consistently. It is perfectly great to buy second hand machines but please buy one from a reputable dealer or shop. This way you know you are buying a machine - [Why the quality of your ingredients matter](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/why-the-quality-of-your-ingredients-matter-2/) - It is vital that you use the correct things on your sewing machine, and that where possible you use high quality things. It can make the difference between a purring machine and a machine that won't work well and that keeps snarling up your threads etc, which is very frustrating! Have a look at this - [Tour of the sewing machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/tour-of-the-sewing-machine-2/) - Most modern machines have a roughly similar set up. Some older or unusual machine may look quite different, in which case try dig out the user manual, or message me. Machines are either computerised or mechanical. Computerised machines have a screen from which you select the stitches, and the length and width of stitch. They - [winding up the bobbin](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/winding-up-the-bobbin-2/) - This video shows you how to wind up the bobbin on a standard modern machine. If your machine is older/ unique/ doesn't have a standard system please refer to your manual or look online. The video below shows you how to insert the bobbin to a sewing machine with a front loading bobbin system The - [Brining the bobbin thread up](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/brining-the-bobbin-thread-up-2/) - Here I will show you how to manually bring the bobbin thread up so you are ready to start sewing. It is essential you do this before you start sewing - [Threading up the top of the machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/threading-up-the-top-of-the-machine-2/) - Most machines will have a similar threading up path to the one in the above video. Most modern machines will have a diagram on a sticker, or numbers on the machine, which will show you the correct order for the thread to go. Do make sure you really know how to do this so it - [How to sit in front of the machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/how-to-sit-in-front-of-the-machine-2/) - When sitting at your machine there are a few things to take into account: Position your machine so it sits near the edge of the table, and with the needle in front of your body (not to the left of you as many people do!). Make sure it is straight and not at a weird - [How to use the pedal properly](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/how-to-use-the-pedal-properly-2/) - Make sure you keep your pedal within easy reach of your feet. It isn't very helpful if you have to extend your leg to use it as you then won't have anywhere near as much control as you need. The pedal should face you with the thinnest part of the wedge towards you. Just use - [How to start and stop your sewing without creating tangles](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/how-to-start-and-stop-your-sewing-without-creating-tangles-2/) - There are numerous ways to make sewing frustrating, it is almost always at the start of your line of sewing that things go wrong, and this page is where I am going to teach you how to make sure none of these things ever happen!Don't start your sewing with the needle at or very near - [Sewing a straight line](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-a-straight-line-2/) - A lot of sewing you will do will see you needing to sew in a straight line. This is not usually something that you will magically learn to do with experience. You will however learn some helpful ways to mark lines and help you sew in a straight line! If you are sewing a line - [Sewing corners](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-corners-2/) -  It is vital to learn how to make sharp corners when sewing. Luckily it is also quite straightforwards! Once you get to where you want your corner to be, leave your needle down if it is already down, or turn your handwheel towards you to put the needle down, as in, in the fabric. - [Making hems - pinning and sewing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/making-hems-pinning-and-sewing/) - A hem is a finished edge, where you fold the raw edge of your fabric under, such as you'd find at the end of your trouser legs, dress, sleeves etc.I am not going to talk about hemming by hand nor am I going to cover using a blind hem stitch. These are both valuable ways - [sewing curved seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-curved-seams-2/) - An awful lot of the techniques you would use to help you sew straight lines you can use for sewing curves too. But obviously you will need to turn the fabric whilst checking the masking tap/ magnetic guide/ edge of the foot. This will see you needing to sew a lot more slowly than when - [Finishing seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/finishing-seams-2/) - Finishing your seams:Often in patterns it will tell you to now "finish your seams". This means not just leaving them to start fraying. It is not always necessary to finish your seams, for example if your seams will be inside a cushion etc. But if your seams will be inside a dress say, you will - [Pressing your seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/pressing-your-seams-2/) - Pressing your seams:After stitching you are often asked or expected to press your seams. If following a pattern it will tell you which direction you are pressing your seams, if not, pressing them open looks amazing. Pressing by the way is using an iron to apply heat and pressure, which is a different from using - [Seams - pinning, sewing & finishing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/seams-pinning-sewing-finishing/) - An awful lot of sewing involves joining two pieces of fabric with their edges neatly together, this is called a seam.With short seams you can just lay the two edges on top of each other so they fit, and pin them together. Watch the video to see how I pin and why. You will eventually - [fixing mistakes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/fixing-mistakes-2/) - As long as you have a stitch picker you don't need to fear making mistakes. Here I show you how to easily and neatly unpick stitches. - [Pressing matter](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/pressing-matter-2/) - You will find it very tricky to sew anything properly if you don't own an iron. If you don't have much space you can use a mat for on your table or floor. I use a wool pressing mat a lot, and you can buy tiny irons that produce steam and get properly hot. You - [Tension](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/tension-2/) - Tension is how the top and bobbin thread interact with each other. Tension is perfect when the top and the underneath of the stitching looks identical and the fabric and stitching feel the same.If your tension is off you may see loops at either side of the fabric, you may get knots under your fabric, - [How to keep your machine happy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/how-to-keep-your-machine-happy-2/) - It is important to look after your machine. This will mean keeping it clean, changing the needles regularly, and occasionally oiling the hook/ bobbin area. In the videos below I show you how to clean both kinds of bobbin systems. Do this as often as you feel it needs it and definitely if you have - [What you will need for this class](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/what-you-will-need-for-this-class-4/) - You will need some stuff to join this class:sewing machineembroidery scissorsfabric scissorsdecent threadplain cotton fabrica stitch unpickeran iron and mat or boarda measuring tapeerasable markerspinking sheerspins and a pin cushion (ideally magnetic)masking tape - [Meet the teacher](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/meet-the-teacher-4/) - My name is Jennie and I have been teaching, mostly in person, since 2011. I am passionate about sewing as a life skill, a practical skill, a mindful skill, a creative skill. I believe everyone can learn to sew, even if it takes some a bit longer than others. I am passionate about sewing being - [What will you learn?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/what-will-you-learn-2/) - I will take you from the very beginning, from how to thread your machine up and what all the buttons mean, to sewing hems and curves and corners, via trouble shooting and lots of technical knowledge!I will coverwhat all the dials, buttons and hooks on the machine are and what they dohow a machine works - [Securing and cutting pattern pieces](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/securing-and-cutting-pattern-pieces-2/) - Pins or weights?Scissors of rotary cutter? - [Transferring marks](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/transferring-marks-2/) - Notches, placement marks, fold lines, darts etc - [After you have cut each piece](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/after-you-have-cut-each-piece-2/) - Do a final check for all the notches and marks.Do not remove all the pins and do not separate the paper piece from the cut fabric. You will never remeber whether that was a front or a back waistband, or which way up it needed to go. It is much easier to identify pieces with - [Basting](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/basting-2/) - [Top and edge stitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/top-and-edge-stitching-2/) - [Understitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/understitching-2/) - [Stay stitching](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/stay-stitching-2/) - [Gathering](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/gathering-2/) - [Shirring](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/shirring-2/) - [Pinning and stitching your seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/pinning-and-stitching-your-seams-2/) - Use your anchoring points! Match the notches, the ends, the seam lines, pin all of these in first, and then pin in between these points. Always be methodical about this! - [Easing in](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/easing-in-2/) - [Grading, notching, and finishing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/grading-notching-and-finishing-2/) - [Pressing matters](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/pressing-matters/) - What tools do I need?an iron, ideally a steam onean ironing board - this can be a table top onea pressing clotha tailor's ham Sometimes a small sleeve board is useful for ironing inside legs/ sleeves etcA spray bottle of water can be very useful too - [Hemming](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/hemming-2/) - [Fastenings](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/fastenings-2/) - [Neckline finishes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/neckline-finishes-2/) - [Stretchy fabrics](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/stretchy-fabrics-2/) - [Denim](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/denim-2/) - [Cord](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/cord-2/) - [pattern companies I adore](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/pattern-companies-i-adore-2/) - [Kids patterns](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/kids-patterns-2/) - The Foldline kids patterns - [Women's wear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/womens-wear-2/) - [Menswear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/menswear-2/) - [And more](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/and-more-2/) - [Fabric shops I love](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/fabric-shops-i-love-2/) - [Choosing a suitable pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/choosing-a-suitable-pattern-2/) - There is quite a lot more to choosing a pattern to sew from than just grabbing one that looks great in Hobbycraft! Some patterns just are easier to use than others and many are NOT beginner friendly at all despite probably having "easy" or "quick" in the title! Big 4 or Indie? There are the - [Reading a pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/reading-a-pattern-2/) - symbols Most symbols used in most sewing patterns are fairly universal, so there isn't a huge new language to learn there. Most pattern designers will include a key to what symbols they have used and if not you can always google it. Not all patterns include all symbols and some designers use say little triangles - [Dressmaking glossary](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/dressmaking-glossary-2/) - ArmscyeThe armscye or armhole is the opening in the bodice where you attach the sleeve. Seam allowanceThe extra fabric added to the pattern pieces to allow for seams. Backstitch2 or 3 reverse stitches to secure the stitches at the beginning and end of a seam. A backstitch (or a back tack )will secure the stitches and prevent - [Measuring, choosing a size & grading/ altering a pattern to fit](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/measuring-choosing-a-size-grading-altering-a-pattern-to-fit-2/) - When making your own clothes it is VITAL to never just pick the size you would buy in the shops. First of all most people are not the same size in the hips as in the bust for example. Also older pattern companies use sizing charts that have been around for a long time and - [Why doesn't it fit - Assessment and adjustments](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/why-doesnt-it-fit-assessment-and-adjustments/) - Why doesn't it fit - Assessment 1. Did you take your measurements at the beginning of the process? 2. Did you choose the right size? Picking the right size in a pattern is essential to getting a good fit. There is a lot of variation between sewing pattern brands as to the amount of ease, and - [How to pin and sew your dart](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/how-to-pin-and-sew-your-dart-2/) - I always use a pin which I stick in all the way at the dart point. I then lay the dart legs on to of each other at the fabric edge - use your notches, right sides of the fabric facing each other. Use the pin to make a beautiful triangle between the dart leg, - [Test and adjust your dart](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/test-and-adjust-your-dart-2/) - Try on your garment right way round and see whether the dart makes the bust look good. Too pointy? The dart is probably too close to your nipple, move the end of the dart out a bit, redraw from this new point and re-stitch and see if that looks better. dart point lower than your - [Sewing your final dart and pressing it](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/sewing-your-final-dart-and-pressing-it-2/) - In order to make your dart nice and strong and for it not to unravel after one wear, I stitch the last few centimeters of my dart on a very shirt stitch length, 1, rather than the normal 2.5. When I hit the exact point where my dart point is I would like to have - [Cutting layouts in your pattern instructions](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/cutting-layouts-in-your-pattern-instructions-2/) - I never use the cutting layouts suggested in the pattern instructions, for a variety of reasons. Here I explain why I don't and what I do instead. Of course you can do whatever works for you! - [Grainline - what is it and why does it matter?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/grainline-what-is-it-and-why-does-it-matter/) - [Sewing your final dart and pressing it](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/sewing-your-final-dart-and-pressing-it/) - In order to make your dart nice and strong and for it not to unravel after one wear, I stitch the last few centimeters of my dart on a very shirt stitch length, 1, rather than the normal 2.5. When I hit the exact point where my dart point is I would like to have - [Folding your fabric - the cheekyhandmades way!](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/folding-your-fabric-the-cheekyhandmades-way/) - [Test and adjust your dart](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/test-and-adjust-your-dart/) - Try on your garment right way round and see whether the dart makes the bust look good. Too pointy? The dart is probably too close to your nipple, move the end of the dart out a bit, redraw from this new point and re-stitch and see if that looks better. dart point lower than your - [How to pin and sew your dart](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/how-to-pin-and-sew-your-dart/) - I always use a pin which I stick in all the way at the dart point. I then lay the dart legs on to of each other at the fabric edge - use your notches, right sides of the fabric facing each other. Use the pin to make a beautiful triangle between the dart leg, - [Darts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/what-is-a-dart/) - A dart turns a flat piece of fabric into a curbed one so it can go round your bum, your belly, your breasts. Patterns will have their darts marked, transfer these marks to your fabric and make a test dart. - [Why doesn't it fit - Assessment and adjustments](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/full-or-small-bust-adjustment/) - Why doesn't it fit - Assessment 1. Did you take your measurements at the beginning of the process? 2. Did you choose the right size? Picking the right size in a pattern is essential to getting a good fit. There is a lot of variation between sewing pattern brands as to the amount of ease, and - [Meet the teacher](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/meet-the-teacher/) - My name is Jennie and I have been teaching, mostly in person, since 2011. I am passionate about sewing as a life skill, a practical skill, a mindful skill, a creative skill. I believe everyone can learn to sew, even if it takes some a bit longer than others. I am passionate about sewing being - [What you will need for the dressmaking class](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/what-you-will-need-for-this-class-2/) - For this class you will need mostly a willingness to have a go, and to work along with the class.A sewing machine!You will also need a pattern, I prefer independent designers' patterns. I would choose a simple woven garment and leave the fancy and the stretchy for another timeEnough cheap ish fabric to make up - [Meet the teacher](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/meet-the-teacher-2/) - Hi I am Jennie and I have been teaching sewing classes since 2010! I am passionate about sewing for practical reasons (repairing, altering, making) as well as for pleasure (mindfulness, creativity) and especially for empowerment. Being able to make your own clothes and create a great fit for your own wonderful and unique body is - [What will you learn on this course](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/what-will-you-learn-on-this-course/) - You will learn how to choose a pattern to suit your ability and styleYou will learn to read the patternYou will learn how to take accurately take measurements and how to determine your size(s) on the patternYou will learn about easeYou will learn to adjust the pattern to fit all of you in and not - [What you will need for this class](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/what-you-will-need-for-this-class-3/) - For this class you will need mostly a willingness to have a go, and to work along with the class.A sewing machine!You will also need a pattern, I prefer independent designers' patterns. I would choose a simple woven garment and leave the fancy and the stretchy for another timeEnough cheap ish fabric to make up - [What will you learn on this course](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/what-will-you-learn-on-this-course-2/) - You will learn how to choose a pattern to suit your ability and styleYou will learn to read the patternYou will learn how to take accurately take measurements and how to determine your size(s) on the patternYou will learn about easeYou will learn to adjust the pattern to fit all of you in and not - [Meet the teacher](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-unassigned/meet-the-teacher-3/) - Hi I am Jennie and I have been teaching sewing classes since 2010! I am passionate about sewing for practical reasons (repairing, altering, making) as well as for pleasure (mindfulness, creativity) and especially for empowerment. Being able to make your own clothes and create a great fit for your own wonderful and unique body is - [And more](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/and-more/) - [Menswear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/menswear/) - [Women's wear](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/womens-wear/) - [Kids patterns](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/kids-patterns/) - The Foldline kids patterns - [pattern companies I adore](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-13/pattern-companies-i-adore/) - [Reading a pattern](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-2/reading-a-pattern/) - symbols Most symbols used in most sewing patterns are fairly universal, so there isn't a huge new language to learn there. Most pattern designers will include a key to what symbols they have used and if not you can always google it. Not all patterns include all symbols and some designers use say little triangles - [How to keep your machine happy](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/how-to-keep-your-machine-happy/) - It is important to look after your machine. This will mean keeping it clean, changing the needles regularly, and occasionally oiling the hook/ bobbin area. In the videos below I show you how to clean both kinds of bobbin systems. Do this as often as you feel it needs it and definitely if you have - [Tension](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-12/tension/) - Tension is how the top and bobbin thread interact with each other. Tension is perfect when the top and the underneath of the stitching looks identical and the fabric and stitching feel the same.If your tension is off you may see loops at either side of the fabric, you may get knots under your fabric, - [Pressing matter](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-11/pressing-matter/) - You will find it very tricky to sew anything properly if you don't own an iron. If you don't have much space you can use a mat for on your table or floor. I use a wool pressing mat a lot, and you can buy tiny irons that produce steam and get properly hot. You - [fixing mistakes](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/fixing-mistakes/) - As long as you have a stitch picker you don't need to fear making mistakes. Here I show you how to easily and neatly unpick stitches. - [Seams - pinning, sewing & finishing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/hems/) - An awful lot of sewing involves joining two pieces of fabric with their edges neatly together, this is called a seam.With short seams you can just lay the two edges on top of each other so they fit, and pin them together. Watch the video to see how I pin and why. You will eventually - [Making hems - pinning and sewing](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/making-seams-pinning-and-sewing/) - A hem is a finished edge, where you fold the raw edge of your fabric under, such as you'd find at the end of your trouser legs, dress, sleeves etc.I am not going to talk about hemming by hand nor am I going to cover using a blind hem stitch. These are both valuable ways - [sewing curved seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-curved-seams/) - An awful lot of the techniques you would use to help you sew straight lines you can use for sewing curves too. But obviously you will need to turn the fabric whilst checking the masking tap/ magnetic guide/ edge of the foot. This will see you needing to sew a lot more slowly than when - [Sewing a straight line](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-a-straight-line/) - A lot of sewing you will do will see you needing to sew in a straight line. This is not usually something that you will magically learn to do with experience. You will however learn some helpful ways to mark lines and help you sew in a straight line! If you are sewing a line - [How to use the pedal properly](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/how-to-use-the-pedal-properly/) - Make sure you keep your pedal within easy reach of your feet. It isn't very helpful if you have to extend your leg to use it as you then won't have anywhere near as much control as you need. The pedal should face you with the thinnest part of the wedge towards you. Just use - [How to sit in front of the machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-8/how-to-sit-in-front-of-the-machine/) - When sitting at your machine there are a few things to take into account: Position your machine so it sits near the edge of the table, and with the needle in front of your body (not to the left of you as many people do!). Make sure it is straight and not at a weird - [Threading up the top of the machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/threading-up-the-top-of-the-machine/) - Most machines will have a similar threading up path to the one in the above video. Most modern machines will have a diagram on a sticker, or numbers on the machine, which will show you the correct order for the thread to go. Do make sure you really know how to do this so it - [winding up the bobbin](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/winding-up-the-bobbin/) - This video shows you how to wind up the bobbin on a standard modern machine. If your machine is older/ unique/ doesn't have a standard system please refer to your manual or look online. The video below shows you how to insert the bobbin to a sewing machine with a front loading bobbin system The - [Brining the bobbin thread up](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-7/brining-the-bobbin-thread-up/) - Here I will show you how to manually bring the bobbin thread up so you are ready to start sewing. It is essential you do this before you start sewing - [Tour of the sewing machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-6/tour-of-the-sewing-machine/) - Most modern machines have a roughly similar set up. Some older or unusual machine may look quite different, in which case try dig out the user manual, or message me. Machines are either computerised or mechanical. Computerised machines have a screen from which you select the stitches, and the length and width of stitch. They - [Why the quality of your ingredients matter](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-5/why-the-quality-of-your-ingredients-matter/) - It is vital that you use the correct things on your sewing machine, and that where possible you use high quality things. It can make the difference between a purring machine and a machine that won't work well and that keeps snarling up your threads etc, which is very frustrating! Have a look at this - [Choosing a sewing machine](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-4/choosing-a-sewing-machine/) - Which sewing machine you buy is really important. Lots of machines are rubbish and it is vital you invest in a tool that works reliably and consistently. It is perfectly great to buy second hand machines but please buy one from a reputable dealer or shop. This way you know you are buying a machine - [Sewing corners](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/sewing-corners/) -  It is vital to learn how to make sharp corners when sewing. Luckily it is also quite straightforwards! Once you get to where you want your corner to be, leave your needle down if it is already down, or turn your handwheel towards you to put the needle down, as in, in the fabric. - [Pressing your seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/pressing-your-seams/) - Pressing your seams:After stitching you are often asked or expected to press your seams. If following a pattern it will tell you which direction you are pressing your seams, if not, pressing them open looks amazing. Pressing by the way is using an iron to apply heat and pressure, which is a different from using - [Finishing seams](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-10/finishing-seams/) - Finishing your seams:Often in patterns it will tell you to now "finish your seams". This means not just leaving them to start fraying. It is not always necessary to finish your seams, for example if your seams will be inside a cushion etc. But if your seams will be inside a dress say, you will - [How to start and stop your sewing without creating tangles](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-9/how-to-start-and-stop-your-sewing-without-creating-tangles/) - There are numerous ways to make sewing frustrating, it is almost always at the start of your line of sewing that things go wrong, and this page is where I am going to teach you how to make sure none of these things ever happen!Don't start your sewing with the needle at or very near - [What will you learn?](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-3/what-will-you-learn/) - I will take you from the very beginning, from how to thread your machine up and what all the buttons mean, to sewing hems and curves and corners, via trouble shooting and lots of technical knowledge!I will coverwhat all the dials, buttons and hooks on the machine are and what they dohow a machine works - [What you will need for this class](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/module-1/what-you-will-need-for-this-class/) - You will need some stuff to join this class:sewing machineembroidery scissorsfabric scissorsdecent threadplain cotton fabrica stitch unpickeran iron and mat or boarda measuring tapeerasable markerspinking sheerspins and a pin cushion (ideally magnetic)masking tape ## Galleries - [Bespoke handmade quilts](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/envira/bespoke-handmade-qui-250-converted-2025-03-21-182101/) - [Home](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/envira/home/) - [Mailing list](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/envira/mailing-list-6977-converted-2025-08-20-072610/) ## Categories - [Website Info](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/category/website-info/) - [Asian Centre](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/category/asian-centre/) - [book launch](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/category/book-launch/) - [Christmas market](https://www.cheekyhandmades.co.uk/category/christmas-market/) - 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