Our newest offering, the Make a Quilt Kit, made the front page of the Tri-County Press--Yippee!
The kits are available at Choo Choos Children and Baby or by contacting us at heavenstobetshandicrafts(at)gmail.com
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Buying a Sewing Machine, part 2
More options for beginner sewing machines can be found at the JoAnn store in Deerfield. Huskvarna-Viking (H-V) operates a dealership out of this store, so there are trained staffers there and you can try machines before you buy.
The saleswoman recommends the Singer Confidence for beginners. It runs about $200, with specials sometimes reducing the price. This model seems intutive and easy to operate. Other JoAnn stores sell this machine, but in Deerfield, you can sit down and give it a whirl.
The next step up is a mechanical H-V model: the Emerald. It runs about $350, but the saleswoman says it's sometimes discounted to $299.
The computerized Emerald model has a speed control--a nice option for beginners--and costs about $399 to $450.
Benefits to the H-V over the Singer include a "jam-proof" bobbin on the Emerald and a free owner's class when you buy an H-V from this store. Some trade-ins are offered, but it must be on a machine from the H-V line (H-V, Pfaff and Singer).
My advice on purchasing from this store is to call ahead to find out what the current discounts are. Unfortunately, the salespeople don't know in advance of new markdowns.
The Hancock store in Tri-County has good prices on Janome, Brother and Bernette (Bernina)machines. Too bad you can't try the machines in the store.
I'll check out Luke's Sewing Center next and let you know what I find!
The saleswoman recommends the Singer Confidence for beginners. It runs about $200, with specials sometimes reducing the price. This model seems intutive and easy to operate. Other JoAnn stores sell this machine, but in Deerfield, you can sit down and give it a whirl.
The next step up is a mechanical H-V model: the Emerald. It runs about $350, but the saleswoman says it's sometimes discounted to $299.
The computerized Emerald model has a speed control--a nice option for beginners--and costs about $399 to $450.
Benefits to the H-V over the Singer include a "jam-proof" bobbin on the Emerald and a free owner's class when you buy an H-V from this store. Some trade-ins are offered, but it must be on a machine from the H-V line (H-V, Pfaff and Singer).
My advice on purchasing from this store is to call ahead to find out what the current discounts are. Unfortunately, the salespeople don't know in advance of new markdowns.
The Hancock store in Tri-County has good prices on Janome, Brother and Bernette (Bernina)machines. Too bad you can't try the machines in the store.
I'll check out Luke's Sewing Center next and let you know what I find!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Buying a sewing machine?
Since our students and their parents have asked, I've begun researching machine options. So far, I have visited JoAnn, Target, Wal-Mart and Kramer's in Montgomery.
Please keep in mind that this info is just my opinion and not meant as an endorsement for any machine or store.
One basic point to make is the difference between a mechanical machine and one that is electronic, or computerized. I learned on a mechanical machine, and believe they are suitable for beginners' needs. However, an electronic machine makes starting and stopping the machine, selecting stitches and stitching through a wider range of fabrics easier.
At this point, it seems like machines in the $100 to $200 category are all mechanical (not computerized models). The models at the discount stores and JoAnn in this range seem serviceable, but not very rugged.
If you go up to the $300 to $400 range at JoAnn, there are electronic models. Unfortunately, at my JoAnn in Evendale, you can't try the machines.
At Kramer's, a knowledgeable salesperson who has taught kids and adults to sew for years, emphasized the need for younger sewers (especially in the 8 to 10-year-old range) to have a machine with a speed control. She suggested one mechanical model (a Bernette) in the $199 range and showed me several electronic machines from Bernina and Brother in the $300 to $400 range.
Keep in mind that Kramer's will accept trade-ins toward a higher-end machine. If you bring in a $100 Singer, for instance, you may get a $10 or $15 credit toward a purchase. If you buy a machine at Kramer's, you can trade-up within 6 months and get a much higher percentage of your purchase price as a credit toward a higher-end machine.
I plan to visit Luke's Sewing Centers next week, and hopefully get to the JoAnn in Deerfield to try a Viking there.
Honestly, if I were buying a simple model at this point, I'd go for the Bernette at Kramer's.
More to come...
In the meantime, take a look at this article in Sew Mama Sew http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=831. It offers a questionnaire you can fill out to try to pinpoint your needs in a machine.
Please keep in mind that this info is just my opinion and not meant as an endorsement for any machine or store.
One basic point to make is the difference between a mechanical machine and one that is electronic, or computerized. I learned on a mechanical machine, and believe they are suitable for beginners' needs. However, an electronic machine makes starting and stopping the machine, selecting stitches and stitching through a wider range of fabrics easier.
At this point, it seems like machines in the $100 to $200 category are all mechanical (not computerized models). The models at the discount stores and JoAnn in this range seem serviceable, but not very rugged.
If you go up to the $300 to $400 range at JoAnn, there are electronic models. Unfortunately, at my JoAnn in Evendale, you can't try the machines.
At Kramer's, a knowledgeable salesperson who has taught kids and adults to sew for years, emphasized the need for younger sewers (especially in the 8 to 10-year-old range) to have a machine with a speed control. She suggested one mechanical model (a Bernette) in the $199 range and showed me several electronic machines from Bernina and Brother in the $300 to $400 range.
Keep in mind that Kramer's will accept trade-ins toward a higher-end machine. If you bring in a $100 Singer, for instance, you may get a $10 or $15 credit toward a purchase. If you buy a machine at Kramer's, you can trade-up within 6 months and get a much higher percentage of your purchase price as a credit toward a higher-end machine.
I plan to visit Luke's Sewing Centers next week, and hopefully get to the JoAnn in Deerfield to try a Viking there.
Honestly, if I were buying a simple model at this point, I'd go for the Bernette at Kramer's.
More to come...
In the meantime, take a look at this article in Sew Mama Sew http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=831. It offers a questionnaire you can fill out to try to pinpoint your needs in a machine.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Sewing Lessons in Cincinnati
We teach kids, teens and adults basic sewing skills. Come join the fun!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Intro to Machine Sewing students Lori and Tara
Get your machine out of its box! We'll show you how to use it!
Pajama Party!!
Grab your fuzzy slippers and pass the popcorn!
Girls ages 10 and up who have completed an intro to machine sewing class can come make a pair of pajama pants. You’ll follow a pattern, alter it to fit you, sew the pants and apply the finishing touches.
Saturday, November 28, 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.
$30 class fee. Students supply their own cotton flannel fabric for the PJ pants.
Election Day Classes
Vote for BFF Key Fob or Frou-Frou Flower!
Choose to make a pair of key fobs (one to keep and a matching one to give your BFF), a frou-frou flower headband ….or both!
Classes open to ages 8 and up. Projects done by hand or machine, no experience necessary!
Tuesday, November 3
Key Fob Class
1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
$10 class fee, $5 supplies
Frou-Frou Flower Class
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$10 class fee, $5 supplies.
Stay for both sessions and pay just $25 total per student. (We’ll supply the snacks during the break between classes.)
Classes taught at Loveland Artist Studios on Main. Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com or call 807-3692.
Choose to make a pair of key fobs (one to keep and a matching one to give your BFF), a frou-frou flower headband ….or both!
Classes open to ages 8 and up. Projects done by hand or machine, no experience necessary!
Tuesday, November 3
Key Fob Class
1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
$10 class fee, $5 supplies
Frou-Frou Flower Class
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
$10 class fee, $5 supplies.
Stay for both sessions and pay just $25 total per student. (We’ll supply the snacks during the break between classes.)
Classes taught at Loveland Artist Studios on Main. Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com or call 807-3692.
Introduction to Machine Sewing for Kids
Kids age 8 and up learn basic machine skills during this 1.5-hour class while making a small project.
Sunday, November 1
3:00 to 4:30 p.m.
Loveland Artist Studios on Main
$15 class fee, $5 supplies
Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com or call 807-3692.
Sunday, November 1
3:00 to 4:30 p.m.
Loveland Artist Studios on Main
$15 class fee, $5 supplies
Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com or call 807-3692.
Intro to Machine Sewing for Teens
Teens age 13 and up learn basic machine skills and complete a drawstring bag project.
Sunday, November 8
3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Loveland Artist Studios on Main
$20 class fee, $5 supplies
Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail..com or 807-3692.
Sunday, November 8
3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Loveland Artist Studios on Main
$20 class fee, $5 supplies
Register at heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail..com or 807-3692.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Upcoming Adult Classes
Out of the Box Sewing Machine Intro
Dig your sewing machine out of the closet or box and bring it in for a 1-hour introductory class. Loveland Art Studios on Main
By appointment
$20 class fee
Sew an Apron
Whether you’re making the holiday dinner this year, or just making reservations, look adorable in an apron you created. Apron class consists of two, 2-hour sessions
Thursdays, 10/22, 10/29, 7 to 9 p.m.
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$32 class fee (bring your own supplies) or add $15 for supplies
Make a Throw Pillow
Learn basic techniques for pillows accented with custom cording or trim in this 2-hour class.
Tuesday, 10/27, 10 a.m. to noon
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$20 + supplies
Machine Sewing--Make a Tote Bag
Learn the basics of machine sewing in this 2-hour introductory class.
Thursday, 11/5, 7 to 9 p.m.
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$20 class fee, $5 supplies
Dig your sewing machine out of the closet or box and bring it in for a 1-hour introductory class. Loveland Art Studios on Main
By appointment
$20 class fee
Sew an Apron
Whether you’re making the holiday dinner this year, or just making reservations, look adorable in an apron you created. Apron class consists of two, 2-hour sessions
Thursdays, 10/22, 10/29, 7 to 9 p.m.
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$32 class fee (bring your own supplies) or add $15 for supplies
Make a Throw Pillow
Learn basic techniques for pillows accented with custom cording or trim in this 2-hour class.
Tuesday, 10/27, 10 a.m. to noon
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$20 + supplies
Machine Sewing--Make a Tote Bag
Learn the basics of machine sewing in this 2-hour introductory class.
Thursday, 11/5, 7 to 9 p.m.
Loveland Art Studios on Main
$20 class fee, $5 supplies
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Upcoming Kids Sewing Classes
Kids (age 10 and up) can learn hand sewing with us at Tri-County Hobby Lobby from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 13 or from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Friday, August 14. We'll show students the basics and make two cute projects--a pretty posy pincushion and a button-wonderful bookmark.Class fee $15, supplies $5.Let us know if you'd like to join the fun!heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.comHope to see you there!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Kids Class July 9
Kids (age 10 and up) can learn hand sewing with us at Tri-County Hobby Lobby from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 9. We'll show students the basics and make two cute projects--a pretty posy pincushion and a button-wonderful bookmark.
Class fee $15, supplies $5.
Let us know if you'd like to join the fun!
heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com
Hope to see you there!
Class fee $15, supplies $5.
Let us know if you'd like to join the fun!
heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com
Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Cut that out!
Campers learned all about sewing tools and patterns today. We laid out and cut pattern pieces--tomorrow, construction begins on our cute handbags. A fabric collage project brought out everyone's artsy side. And, a mythical creature stopped by--she looked great: Even on dry land!
Pockets on a string
Tuesday's camp project: Pockets on a string--the perfect spot to stash your mad money, pool pass or cell phone. The campers did a great job with this project, while working on their machine-sewing skills.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Posey Power!
Our first day at camp...Emily, Emily, Cailie and Felix caught on fast. They learned the running stitch and how to gather, made adorable posey pin cushions, then sewed on buttons. (We promised they wouldn't have to learn how to darn socks!) Next up: Driving lessons! They learned how to turn on their machines, stop, start, accelerate and handle the turns!
Can't wait to see everyone on Tuesday.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Happy Campers!
Want to be a junior Betsy?
Come join us at Sew Fun Summer Camp!
June 8-11
9:30 to noon
Lakeview Church of Christ on Columbia Road in Landen
Children age 10 and up
Cost: $95 per camper, plus $25 materials fee
Simple, happy projects to help your child learn the basics of hand-sewing, machine-sewing and using a pattern. We'll take breaks for snacks and outdoor activities. Please email for more info: heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com
Come join us at Sew Fun Summer Camp!
June 8-11
9:30 to noon
Lakeview Church of Christ on Columbia Road in Landen
Children age 10 and up
Cost: $95 per camper, plus $25 materials fee
Simple, happy projects to help your child learn the basics of hand-sewing, machine-sewing and using a pattern. We'll take breaks for snacks and outdoor activities. Please email for more info: heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com
Friday, January 9, 2009
Learn to Sew!
Get that sewing machine out of its box! Come learn the basics of machine sewing while working on a simple, happy project! Evening class offered January 28 and February 4 in Evendale. For more information, email heavenstobetsyhandicrafts@gmail.com or go to
http://www.evendaleohio.org/Pages/EvendaleOH_Admin/ECACFinalEditionEarlyWinter2009.pdf
http://www.evendaleohio.org/Pages/EvendaleOH_Admin/ECACFinalEditionEarlyWinter2009.pdf
Made, Took, Gave
Our first "make it, take it, give it" night was a blast! Here are a few photos of the ladies stamping, sewing, crafting and felting the night away. We're planning another event for the spring--let us know if there's someone we should add to our mailing list!
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