Other than our sewing machine, often a computerized one that almost can do everything on its own, we usually don’t think about caring for the other tools that help us create our quilts and fabric art.  Also, there often are proper ways to use them so they last longer.
 For instance, at the Quilted Paradise, you’ll find tips for using and taking care of your rotary cutter.  A sampling:
*How to make your blades last longer
*How to use your cutter safely
*How to keep your blades sharp
These may seem like simple things, but to get the best use from your tools, knowing how …read more

Chloe at Tangled Thread has discovered another neat idea…a bobbin winder, Sidewinder bobbin winder from Wrights.  This enables you to wind your bobbin without taking the thread from the machine.
Also,  if you order it, using the code Chloe provides, you’ll receive a discount.  What more could you ask for?  Time saving gadget and a discount.

  Did you know you can use these handy household items in your quilting, too?  These and other items found around the home are very useful in your quilting and fabric art work, according to Konstantin at Quilted Paradise.
In the latest newsletter, you’ll find More Quilting Tools from Common Household Items.  You’ll be amazed at the simple items around your home you can incorporate into your quilting creativity.
The grapefruit spoon with serrated edge is handy for closing quilters safety pins.
An emery board somes in handy for gripping and not slipping when you’re drawing a straight line.
Do you have any handy …read more

Keeping your quilting tools in good condition helps a great deal when it comes to cutting and sewing.  This also saves you time and doesn’t destroy your fabric.
                                At Konstantin’s Quilted Paradise, you’ll find a good article about Caring for Rotary Cutter, Scissors and Shears.

Sometimes a very helpful gadget can be very simple, so simple that we don’t even consider it.  I was browsing through the new autumn Keepsake Quilting catalog(www.keepsakequilting.com ) my daughter received, and saw…Glow-in-the-Dark Pins!
That’s what we need around here, I thought.  With three quilters in the family (my daughter, granddaughter, and me), our menfolk continually complain about the pins on the floor or on cushions. 
These 1 1/2-inch pins have white plastic heads that will glow in the dark.  Possibly these are commonplace to many quilters and other suppliers have them available.  Anyway, if you’re constantly losing pins, you may want …read more