Videos/How-To's

New! August 2010--Excellent series of Texture Magic Videos Click: www.superiorthreads.com

Introducing Texture

I love to add texture or functional interest to store bought items. This over-sized shopping bag was the perfect subject waiting for my quick makeover process...

Project overview: How-to create a functional and fun textured pocket 

Scroll down to view how I transformed a basic black bag into something with a wee personality. Once I introduced Texture Magic--the new shrinking medium, to a stretchy knit it was instant friendship for both fabrics. I love "drama free" projects, don't you?

  Quilted 3 Layers              Texture Magic side UP             Ready to steam

1. Create a traditional quilt sandwich: bottom layer is Texture Magic fabric, center batting, and knit fabric top.  Pocket is cut larger than the finished size to allow for the 30% shrinking process which creates the magic here! 

2. As shown above, you "free-motion" quilt the layers by following the fabric design. (Practice this on a small piece first). I used the new Superior Titanium Coated Topstitch Needle #90/14 for this entire project. This bag is made of a canvas-type vinyl and was actually a breeze to sew. Also, smoke colorless MonoPoly as the top thread expertly conceals stitches while the darker areas create depth in this hounds' tooth checked pattern.

3. Now for the fun part--applying the steam to activate the shrinking process. And you get a free facial while providing the makeover. Watch the fabric layers morph together and transform into another dimension. Flip it over to steam a little longer and create maximum shrinkage and texture. Wow! 

4. Begin to attach the textured pocket directly on top of the existing bag pocket. Stitch along the bottom edge of bag binding catching all layers and tucking in the side seams.

5. Trim and fit new pocket cover allowing for side seams including a generous top hem (above) for the pouch. No need for extra lining--TM doubles as the lining in this application.

6. Compress seam edges under a teflon sheet to protect the Texture Magic from melting. TM only likes steam--irons won't play nicely.

7. The finished bottom edge is stitched along the existing binding already on the bag--SID, stitch in the ditch here--easy.

8. Attach side seams by easing in knit fabric and slip stitching with heavy wt. thread and leather needle to penetrate the vinyl and multiple layers easily. 

9. Repeat my procedures for the accent flap and attach. The velcro was already there!

 No longer plain Jane, shows off her makeover.

I hope I've inspired you to re-purpose other items this way by introducing them to Texture? Stay tuned for more of Cinderella's How-To's. . .

We know creativity urges can spike anytime and it's nice to already have a supply of Texture Magic in your stash. You can include a package of Texture Magic for your shopping cart here. Click Texture Magic Button from Home Page. Choose from 1/2 yd, 1 yd, or custom cut sizes. Mention this BLOG article to receive an extra lollipop in your next order.

Happy Texturing!

Cinderella