THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO BUYING YOUR FIRST SEWING MACHINE

November 15, 2023 by Hilarie Dayton in Learn to Sew

It’s that time of year again! Beginning in early November, each day I get a phone call, text or email requesting recommendations for purchasing a sewing machine. I love these conversations. The person calling (or writing) is interested in supporting the creative talents of someone special to them and wants a bit of guidance in selecting a machine that will meet the needs of the budding enthusiast today and provide them with room for growth.

No doubt about it, if you don’t sew, or haven’t shopped for machines lately, the options can be a bit overwhelming. Fear not, I’ve got your back. This guide will help to simplify your search and help you to make a savvy choice.

10 Children's Books About Fashion and Sewing that Feature Black Characters

Little Stitch Studio

June 19, 2020 by Hilarie Dayton in Fashion Design, Fashion History, Teaching

In recent years, I have found an increase in the number of books that are both fashion and sewing related that feature kids with black and brown skin. This expanded diversity not only allows kids the opportunity to see themselves in these stories but also helps broaden the perspective of all children by fostering their sense of empathy and connection with characters who might look different from themselves.

DIY Easy Mini Felt Bunny Ornaments

April 10, 2020 by Hilarie Dayton in PDF Pattern, Tutorial

Easter is on Sunday! Since quarantine began, I am never really quite sure what day it is anymore. Somehow in all of this uncertainty, I hadn’t gotten around to putting out any type of seasonal decoration. With a daughter called Bunny, we generally take Easter decorating pretty seriously around here. So, in an effort to jump start on all things Bunny, here is a quick hand-sewing project for you to make and enjoy.

Pop-up Workshop at West Elm VB

April 05, 2017 by Hilarie Dayton in Teaching, Press

I'm excited to share a bit of the sewing workshop that I held at West Elm, VA Beach last weekend. Earlier this year, I heard that West Elm was looking for local crafters to feature. I sent an email introducing myself and telling a bit about what I do. The next thing I knew, we had a meeting and decided to schedule a Spring Sewing Workshop. Thrilled at the chance to collaborate, I went home and set to work designing a fun little project.

Felt Lovebirds Pattern and Tutorial

February 13, 2017 by Hilarie Dayton in PDF Pattern, Tutorial

Make these pretty felt love birds for Valentine's Day. With these sweet love birds you can show the one you love how much you care.

In the news!

February 12, 2017 by Hilarie Dayton in Teaching, Press

A couple of weeks ago I received a phone call from Arleen Spenceley, a correspondent at The Virginian-Pilot. She had seen something online about Little Stitch Studio and wanted to learn more. I was thrilled to chat with her about my work and your kids!

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas, Weaving Edition.

December 21, 2016 by Hilarie Dayton

The fun thing with buying gifts for 8 and 9 year olds and “tweens” is using their interests as cues to get gifts that support those interests – or you can introduce that 12 year old to something new and they may discover a lifelong love.

On the Tenth Day of Christmas.... Stocking Charms

December 20, 2016 by Hilarie Dayton in Tutorial

Each year I like to make a new stocking charm for my kids to decorate their stocking. The idea is really simple and fun and jazzes up the stockings a little bit. Candy canes, initials, dolls, bears, whatever comes to mind. With kids out of school this week, this is a quick project that they would love and it might buy you a few minutes of peace.

On the ninth day of Christmas... A Sew a Softie Round up

December 16, 2016 by Hilarie Dayton in PDF Pattern, Tutorial

The last two weeks, we've celebrated everything hand-sewing and softie-related and it’s clear you love sewing with kids as much as we do. In this post you will find all of the inspiration you will need to sew an ornament or toy for Christmas.

But perhaps the best part of Sew a Softie for Christmas is the blog tour. These lovely ladies showed us their take on simple sewing projects with kids. So many of our blogger friends have posted darling sewing projects over the past few days, it's hard to know where to start!

On the Eighth Day of Christmas....

December 14, 2016 by Hilarie Dayton

I know many kids that are asking for a sewing machine and "sewing stuff" for Christmas/ Hanukkah this year. More than a few parents have called to ask me for recommendations for a sewing machine and supplies.