I enjoy collecting sewing patterns almost as much as I enjoy sewing with them. Here are some of my patterns and tips on how to build your own pattern collection.
If you have the desire and the academic ability, you can graduate from college in just three years. As one who completed a bachelor's degree in three years, I offer my explanation of how I did it.
You want to buy a sewing machine. With so many options, how do you choose the right machine for your needs? Begin by determining what features are essential for the sewing you plan to do.
My most used cookbooks are a mess, but that is because they have recipes my family loves and information to help me achieve success in the kitchen.
Handmade cotton dishcloths are useful, durable, and fun to make. You can have endless variety in pattern stitches, shapes, and color combinations. I knit mine, but crochet works, too!
You can successfully resize a knitting pattern. The math is just arithmetic with some fractions or ratios--nothing to fear! Step by step, you can scale a patter up or down.
Many crochet books crowd the marketplace, but I have selected some stand-out books. From beginners through advanced crafters, there is a book for everyone.
Pantyhose are becoming relics of an age past. Here I make the case in favor of pantyhose.
Knitting uses few resources. With a little thought, even those few resources can become more environmentally friendly. Learn about green fibers and recycled yarn.
Good habits are not incompatible with creativity. Most creative individuals benefit from a bit of structure. S.J. Scott helps us out with this book.
Find some great patterns for crocheted gifts in this clever e-book from Jaime Eads Maraia. Bags, scarves, hats and novelties are included.
Fair Isle knitting is a pleasure to learn if you have the right resources. Here are some of the best books, sites, and videos for learning this craft.
The 'Little House" series by Laura Ingalls Wilder is an enduring classic. Laura honed her descriptive skills while narrating for her blind sister, Mary. She became an exemplary writer.
My all-time favorite animal book to read aloud to children is Sammy, the Classroom Guinea Pig. Here's why:
Universities today have far too much administration and not enough real teaching of actual content areas going on. If thought faculty ran the universities, you need to read this book.
Indiana has produced more than its share of writers. Do the cornfields somehow inspire creativity? Check out these authors from the Hoosier state, from Lew Wallace to Kurt Vonnegut.
All children can learn to draw. Some have special talent, but all can learn that everything is made of basic shapes that can be put together. Here are resources for young artists in training.
Here are tips from an experienced costume mistress. Learn about costumes from movies, books, and history. Hogwarts, Star Trek, Middle Earth, and American history are included.
A review of two books for teaching English or Continental knitting styles. These are books any knitting teacher should have for reference.
Handmade socks are a portable project. When it is hot in the summer, socks are easier to knit than a bulky afghan or sweater.
Once-a-month cooking is a strategy that has helped busy women from many walks of life. It is a real boost to the spirit to know a home-cooked dinner is already made and just needs to be heated up.
Take a boy's flannel shirt and style it for a girl using these step-by-step cutting and sewing instructions.
I have always loved Gunne Sax dresses. Jessica McClintock created beautiful styles that still look wonderful for special occasions today.
Review the best knitting needles of all types: straight, double-pointed, and circular. Compare the knitting properties of bamboo needles, aluminum, wood, and more.
Dave Barry take American history and looks at it through the eyes of a comedian. Face it, we Americans are a crazy, funny bunch of misfits!
Sugar Cream Pie is the official state dessert of Indiana. It is a rich dessert, suitable for special occasions.
I offer a look at my various knitting projects, including photographs and pattern links. Good knitting books are recommended as well.
Crochet and knitting can produce lace faster than many more complicated methods. See examples of lace made with needles or a hook.
Men, is a bow tie right for you? Learn how to tie one and how to wear one.
A former bridal alterations specialist offers tips and resources for wedding sewing success. From choosing a pattern and fabrics to sewing and fitting, learn to do it yourself.
Many of the most gifted students no longer become teachers. How can schools attract the best of the best to teach the next generation?