Fabric Pokeball

The new craze of Pokemon Go brings even more of a demand for all-things-Pokemon than ever before!  My kids are talking about it non-stop and it's even all over the news. So if you are in on Pokemon Go, or even just want to be the hero of kids who are, you've come to the right place. Today you get to learn how to create a fabric Pokeball! 

To say my kids love the this Pokeball would be a major understatement. They haven't left my side the entire time I've been making it.  (In case you don't know, a Pokeball is used to catch Pokemon.  Totally important.)  And my kiddos are still sitting right by me, waiting for me to say it's okay to steal it. Almost there, guys. 

What I love about this Pokeball is that it uses real fabric and has sturdy construction.  It doesn't just look great -- it's totally throw-able and play-able.  It uses fabric panels for the ball itself and then a white and black button for the front.  And it's pretty easy to make because I did all the math for you! Are you ready to get started? 

Should I Pre-Wash My Fabric?

There are some sewing topics that are sure to spur a never-ending debate, even among friends. (Which is perfect, because we're all friends here, right?)  On today's particular issue, I'm not going to tell you what is right or wrong, but we are going to discuss some why's and how's, to help you as you decide what's best for you. And today's question is...

In our patterns group we have people ask quite often, "Do I have to pre-wash my fabric?"  It's a great question and definitely worth a discussion. 

I would say, the answer all depends on what type of fabric you're working with and who you are sewing for. 

Let's break it down a little. 

Type of Fabric

Not all fabrics are created equally. They have different constructions, makeups, and purposes.  For example you definitely don't want to pre-wash a fabric that says "dry clean only"!  I would say the same about tulle and delicate fabrics that should be handled with care. Costume fabrics that are doused in glitter and are only going to be worn once obviously should not be pre-washed. I think you get the idea: If it shouldn't be washed at all, don't pre-wash it. 

Pokemon Go! Costume Contest

Are you in on the "Pokemon Go" craze?!  I'm not talking about the card game (which we love) or the TV show (which my kids still watch).  No, this is about the new Pokemon Go game app that has gone viral. I love that it gets people out of the house and moving and having a good time!  And while our friend/spouses/kids/selves are doing that, how about we also turn it into a fun sewing contest?

"Everyday Heroes" Badges - Free Cut Files!

Have you had a chance to look closely at our new Everyday Heroes patterns? They're pretty awesome!  Randy's is a 4-in-1 uniform sewing pattern and then we also have an embroidery file Badge Set available for purchase. They go perfectly together!  And for those of you who prefer to use vinyl, we have a special treat for you on the blog today - free cut files for the badges!

Keepsake Pillow from a Favorite Shirt

The kids are home for the summer and that means they're hanging around and "helping" me with projects more often. I'm sure you know the routine.  Well one of my kiddos somehow dug out one of his favorite shirts from a couple years ago, which I had stored in a safe place because it's one of my favorites too.  He was super excited to see it but then there wasn't much else to do with it -- so it gave me an idea!  

Fun, right?  The cool pocket was already part of the shirt, but now you can see why it's one of our favorites. I might even have to design a zipper shirt one of these days -- wouldn't that be awesome?!

But for today's tutorial, I will show you how I made the pillow itself. It's super easy with just a few tips!