Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Shiny Happy World

Simple, fun patterns that anyone can make!

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/blog)
- [Working with Clip Art](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/working-with-clip-art.html) - Shiny Happy World has clip art now! Here's the first bundle - 25 pretty flowers. :-) You can find it here. I've been drawing a LOT, and I get a lot of requests for patterns using a lot of my new drawings. But some people want applique quilt patterns, some want embroidery patterns, some want
- [New (Colorful!) Clothes for Wendi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/03/new-colorful-clothes-for-wendi.html) - Wendi here. Wearing purple! I introduced The Wardrobe Project here (with Jo's intro here). Today I have my first step towards a solution. It's kind of lame that it involves a purchase instead of making something, but this was actually a really good place to start. For those who haven't read the original post, my
- [How to Join Quilt As You Go Blocks - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/how-to-join-quilt-as-you-go-blocks-video-tutorial.html) - I get a lot of questions about how to join Quilt As You Go blocks. . . Do I have to use a special needle? Do I have to use a special thread? Do I have to trim the batting out of the seam allowance? How do I press the seams? Aren't the seams super
- [What is Quilt As You Go (QAYG) and How Do You Do It?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/what-is-qayg-how-do-you-do-it.html) - Quilt As You Go (QAYG) is a technique that's been around for a long time - but I've never tried it until now. There are a few different techniques floating around the internet - including a really common one that uses bias tape and is VERY fussy and irritating, in my opinion. I've been playing
- [Archives: Week 9](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/02/archives-week-nine.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [The Wardrobe Project - Jo's Closet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/03/the-wardrobe-project-jos-closet.html) - I have a problem. My closet is a mess. But wait! There's more! I have too many clothes that I don’t wear. On a normal day, I wear something like this. A graphic tee and black pants. It’s cool, comfortable, and casual. It’s also a little basic. But I have SO MUCH other clothing. It
- [Books!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/03/books.html) - I read a lot and I share my favorites in the newsletter. People have been asking me to compile those recommendations in one place and I've decided to use Bookshop. Here are the lists I've transferred from my notebooks so far. . . My 2026 Favorites All My 2026 Reads My 2025 Favorites All My
- [Archives: Week 8](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/02/archives-week-eight.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 7](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/02/archives-week-seven.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [The Wardrobe Project](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/03/the-wardrobe-project.html) - Folks - I have a problem. If you look at my designs, you'd probably guess that I like bright colors and whimsy. I do! But this is what I wear. Every. Single. Day. Black yoga pants. Black tank top. Black cardigan. It's very comfortable, but I'm bored out of my mind! If I'm leaving the
- [Recipe Posts Coming Soon!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/03/recipe-posts-coming-soon.html) - I'll be sharing some of my favorite recipes here soon.
- [Free Wallpaper for Desktop, Phones and Tablets](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/07/free-wallpaper-for-desktop-phones-and-tablets.html) - Happy March! Time for new free wallpaper for your desktop, phone and other devices! This month's wallpaper is a sweet little dog. Jo's getting a dog this month! A dog who looks nothing like this, but that's ok. All dogs are good dogs! (If you want printables - including a PNG with no background so
- [My Favorite Tools and Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/11/my-favorite-tools-and-supplies.html) - In an effort to have more time to spend designing, I'm no longer selling tools and supplies. But I don't want to leave you hanging! That section of the shop has always been where I share all my favorite things! So here's a list of all the tools and supplies I used to sell -
- [Archives: Week 6](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/02/archives-week-six.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Sylvester - a free embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/sylvester-free-embroidery-pattern.html) - Meet Sylvester. (A free embroidery pattern for you to stitch up!) He's a groovy monster who drives a groovy car. He's so proud of his car that he drives it everywhere - even when he only has to go a block or two. Jo informs me that this is a bird – not a monster.
- [How to Bind a Quilt - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-bind-a-quilt-video-tutorial.html) - This is a longish video for me - but it shows you in tremendous detail how to bind a quilt. You won't find me being judgmental about many things - but I'm pretty dang picky about quilt bindings. It kills me when I see a quilt that's beautifully pieced, meticulously quilted. . . and sloppily
- [Archives: Week 5](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/01/archives-week-five.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 4](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/01/archives-week-four.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Working with Cheater Quilt Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/02/working-with-cheater-quilt-fabric.html) - I love to quilt. I hope that's obvious 🙂 but sometimes it's good to be explicit. I also love cheater quilts! I've been adding a lot of new cheater quilt fabric to my shop lately, and I've received a couple of emails from people asking if I have any posts about working with this kind
- [Archives: Week 3](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/01/archives-week-three.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Make an Easy Applique Rag Quilt - tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/make-an-easy-applique-rag-quilt-tutorial.html) - Several years ago my mother-in-law made us a fantastic flannel rag quilt. We use it all the time, and every time I look at it I think that it would be super easy to add applique to that style of quilt. I finally did it! And it was just as fun and easy as I
- [Archives: Week 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/01/archives-week-two.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Snowflakes - free applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2026/01/snowflakes-free-applique-pattern.html) - These little snowflakes come in two different sizes. The larger size fits well in a full-sized square block. Add some big snowflakes to any pattern! The smaller size fits in half-blocks, perfect for adding complexity to a simple grid pattern. (There's a PDF here with all the info you need for that layout.) You can
- [Archives: Week 1](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/12/archives-week-one.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Free Crochet Heart Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/free-crochet-heart-pattern.html) - Crochet these fun hearts! What’s better than hearts for Valentine’s Day? This pattern contains instructions for 3 sizes of stuffed hearts! The small measures 2.5 inches tall, the medium is 5 inches tall, and the large is a whopping 7 inches tall!! These hearts are adorable plush decorations on their own… but the medium size
- [Archives: Week 51](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/12/archives-week-51.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 50](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/12/archives-week-50.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 49](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/12/archives-week-49.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 48](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/archives-week-48.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 47](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/archives-week-47.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Play with Your Quilt Layouts - Multiple Possibilities for One Quilt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/04/play-with-your-quilt-layouts-multiple-possibilities-for-one-quilt-pattern.html) - Quilt layouts can be very simple - or very complex. When I design a quilt pattern I always make up a sample - usually a simple grid. But if you think of my quilt patterns as patterns for collections of blocks that you can put together any way you like - it opens up all
- [Choosing a Quilt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/09/choosing-a-quilt-pattern.html) - Time to talk about choosing a quilt pattern! All of my quilt patterns have links to video tutorials teaching you any skill you'll need to make that pattern. Basically - my patterns are really workshops just disguised as patterns. :-) You can work your way through all the lessons using any of my patterns. So
- [Archives: Week 45](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/archives-week-45.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 26](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/06/archives-week-26.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 46](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/archives-week-46.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 44](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/archives-week-44.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [How to Use a Light Box to Layer Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/03/how-to-use-a-light-box-to-layer-applique.html) - In my never-ending quest to to make applique as easy as possible, I recently bought a light box. Wow! My mind is blown! No more tracing those placement markings to the right side of the fabric. (***ahem*** I may have mentioned here how much I hate to trace.) This makes layering applique SO EASY and
- [Archives: Week 43](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/10/archives-week-43.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 42](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/10/archives-week-42.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 41](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/10/archives-week-41.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [My Favorite Source for Faux Fur](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/my-favorite-source-for-faux-fur.html) - Finding good quality and interesting faux fur can be tricky. None of the big box stores carry anything really fun, and it can be hard to shop online because you really want to touch the stuff. Plus a lot of online shops make you buy a minimum of 1 yard. That's a LOT of fur
- [Topsy Turvy Grid Quilt Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/10/topsy-turvy-grid-quilt-layout-guide.html) - Want to add visual interest to your quilt, but keep the grid layout as simple as possible? Try spinning some of the blocks to create a topsy turvy layout! That example above uses just one block - the silly Skyler Sloth - but you could use any single or multi-block pattern. I think Brette Bunny
- [Archives: Week 40](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/10/archives-week-40.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [How to Window Cut Fusible Adhesive](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/10/how-to-window-cut-fusible-adhesive.html) - I use fusible adhesive to applique almost all of my quilt blocks, and I get a lot of questions about the stiffness. I use Heat & Bond Lite. Yes - it is somewhat stiff when you're making the block. I find that stiffness VERY helpful when I'm doing all my outline stitching. Basically, it acts
- [Archives: Week 39](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/09/archives-week-39.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 38](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/09/archives-week-38.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [What the Heck is the Grain of the Fabric and What Difference Does It Make?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/heck-grainline-difference-make.html) - I talked about fabric grain in this video about working with polar fleece. Fleece is stretchy across the fabric (when you stretch from selvedge to selvedge) and much less stretchy when you stretch the length of the fabric (along the selvedge). Watch the video to see that stretch in action. But what difference does the
- [Archives: Week 36](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/09/archives-week-36.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 37](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/09/archives-week-37.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 21](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/05/archives-week-21.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 35](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/archives-week-35.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 34](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/archives-week-34.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 32](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/archives-week-32.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 33](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/archives-week-33.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 31](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/archives-week-31.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 30](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/07/archives-week-30.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 29](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/07/archives-week-29.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 28](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/07/archives-week-28.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 27](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/07/archives-week-27.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [How to Transfer and Mark Detail Stitching Lines - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/06/how-to-transfer-and-mark-detail-stitching-lines-video-tutorial.html) - On most of my applique patterns, the little stitched details - things like eyelashes and eyebrows and smiles - fall inside the applique pieces. That makes it really easy to transfer those detail lines to fabric. They're right on the pattern pieces! Sometimes I have detail lines that fall outside of the applique pieces, but
- [Archives: Week 25](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/06/archives-week-25.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Simple Trees - Free Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/07/simple-trees-free-applique-pattern.html) - These simple trees used to be available only as part of the Woodland Critters pattern, but now they're a free pattern that you can combine with any of your animal patterns. Obviously, they'll work great with the Woodland Critters bundles (Woodland Bundle #1 and Woodland Bundle #2), but they'd also be fun to add to
- [Mushrooms - Free Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/07/mushrooms-free-applique-pattern.html) - These little mushrooms used to be available only as part of the Woodland Critters pattern, but now they're a free pattern that you can combine with any of your animal patterns. Obviously, they'll work great with the Woodland Critters bundles (Woodland Bundle #1 and Woodland Bundle #2), but they'd also be fun to add to
- [Archives: Week 24](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/06/archives-week-24.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Quilting from the Center Out to the Edges - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/quilting-center-edges-video-tutorial.html) - What does it mean to start quilting in the middle and work your way out? I get this question a LOT - so I made a video showing the answers. That's right - answers. Plural. Because the answers are different depending on whether you're quilting by hand or by machine! See? Happy quilting!
- [Archives: Week 23](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/06/archives-week-23.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Archives: Week 17](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/04/archives-week-seventeen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 16](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/04/archives-week-sixteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 22](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/05/archives-week-22.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Big Stitch Quilting - an Easy and Fun Hand Quilting Technique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/big-stitch-quilting-an-easy-and-fun-hand-quilting-technique.html) - It's finally here! The video showing you how I do big stitch quilting - a super easy and fun hand quilting technique! Big stitch quilting is my new favorite way to hand quilt - I'm not sure I'll ever go back to traditional hand quilting. It's just so much fun! I love the chunkiness of the
- [How to Hand Quilt - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/how-to-hand-quilt-video-tutorial.html) - Learn how to hand quilt. It's easy, relaxing, and goes faster than you think it will. In this video you'll learn all the basics of hand quilting - from the tools you need to the mechanics of how to do the stitch. There are two methods you'll see people use - stabbing and rocking. I'm
- [Hand Quilting on the Couch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/06/hand-quilting-on-the-couch.html) - I've had a few people ask me recently about how (exactly) I sit on the couch to do hand quilting. Where do I rest the frame? How do I position my hands? What do I do with all the excess quilt? I made this video several years ago for a class on hand-stitching, and I
- [Archives: Week 20](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/05/archives-week-twenty.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 19](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/05/archives-week-nineteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Cuddle Fleece Is Discontinued - and a Suggested Substitute](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/08/cuddle-fleece-is-discontinued.html) - I have sad news today. I can't reorder cuddle fleece any more, so it'll be going away from the shop. The company has been discontinuing colors over the last few years, and they finally discontinued the line completely. 😢 I love this stuff! I use it for softies and all my quilt backs. It's not
- [Colorwork Cuff Club - August](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/05/colorwork-cuff-club-august.html) - Socks are one of my very favorite things to knit. They’re almost instant gratification. I can make a pair of socks in a weekend if I have enough Star Trek, X-Files, or Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to watch. (One of those things is not like the other.) When one of my knitting friends showed
- [Felt Demon Goat](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/05/felt-demon-goat.html) - “Wouldst thou like the taste of butter? Wouldst thou like to live…deliciously?” For those who don’t know, those are lines from Black Phillip, the demonic goat from the movie The VVitch. My friend and I both like that movie, and love to quote Black Phillip to each other. When my friend’s birthday came around this
- [Archives: Week 18](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/05/archives-week-eighteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 15](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/04/archives-week-fifteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 14](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/04/archives-week-fourteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 13](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/03/archives-week-thirteen.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 12](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/03/archives-week-twelve.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver – a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World.
- [Archives: Week 11](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/03/archives-week-eleven.html) - Let's tiptoe down memory lane to see what I was doing during the eleventh week of every year since the start of Shiny Happy World. :-) Click on the images to go to the posts. Want this round-up delivered to your inbox every Friday? Click here to sign up for the Shiny Happy World newsletter! 2011
- [Archives: Week 10](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/03/archives-week-ten.html) - The heart and soul of Shiny Happy World is in the archives. There are hundreds of free patterns and tutorials and it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the information. Every Friday I share just a manageable sliver - a peek at what was happening during the same week of every year since the start
- [Meet Jo - My Daughter and Coauthor!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/meet-jo-daughter-coauthor.html) - This is one of my favorite photos of Jo. I think she was seven or eight and I have no idea why she was wearing that mask while she sewed - but it's totally her. :-) Creature Camp (Bookshop link, Amazon link) is coming out soon and Jo helped me so much with it that
- [How to Assemble a Quilt that Uses an Alternate Grid - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/assemble-quilt-uses-alternate-grid-video-tutorial.html) - Quilts that "break" the traditional simple checkerboard grid can be really fun and dynamic, but if you've never worked with an alternate grid before, figuring out how to assemble the blocks can be kind of tricky. Take a look at the Noisy Farm quilt. You can't just sew all the blocks into rows and then
- [How to Change the Eyes on Your Applique Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/02/how-to-change-the-eyes-on-your-applique-patterns.html) - As I update all my patterns to add SVG files and light box instructions, I've also been adding cute, optional eyelashes. But there's no reason for you to have to wait for me to update every single pattern! Here's a handy dandy one-sheet that gives you eyelashes that you can add to any of my
- [Think BIG! - Tools and Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/02/think-big-tools-and-supplies.html) - You can always enlarge or reduce the size of any of my applique patterns, but if you make them really big you can introduce some challenges. In this series of posts we're going to learn some easy techniques for working with extra-large applique. It's fun! And the large size means the projects come together super
- [Think BIG! - How to Enlarge Any Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/02/think-big-how-to-enlarge-any-pattern.html) - You have a few options for enlarging any pattern. If you're just enlarging it a little bit, you might be able to get away with following the instructions in this post. But if you want to make it really big, you'll need to go to a copy shop with an oversized printer to print your
- [Think Big! - Tips for Giant Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/02/think-big-tips-for-giant-applique.html) - For the most part, giant applique is the same as regular applique - trace, rough cut, fuse, clean cut, fuse again. If you're new to applique with fusible adhesive, do NOT start with a giant block. There's a post here with very detailed instructions, and you can follow along with one of my free patterns.
- [ABC Quilt Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/01/abc-quilt-layout-guide.html) - I've been getting requests for an ABC quilt pattern for years - but I coulnd't do it until I had at least one pattern for every letter of the alphabet. I finally have that! You can pull your blocks from any of my patterns that use square blocks. (That's almost all of them.) Pull what
- [Simple Grid Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/01/simple-grid-layout-guide.html) - Materials list and cutting instructions for a quilt with a simple grid layout. Includes everything you need for 6 different sizes, from Itty Bitty Baby to King.
- [Added Half-Blocks Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/01/added-half-blocks-layout-guide.html) - I LOVE the way adding half-blocks to any simple grid quilt pattern instantly makes it look more complex. It just makes the whole thing feel bouncier! It's also my favorite way to add a little noise to a quilt! That example above uses blocks from the Woodland Critters applique pattern. Here's another example using blocks
- [Checkerboard Grid Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/01/checkerboard-grid-layout-guide.html) - Want to make an applique quilt in half the time? Just applique half the blocks! That example above uses blocks from the Lovable Mutts applique pattern. Here's another example using blocks from the Woodland Critters pattern. None of my multi-block patterns includes a materials list and cutting instructions for this layout - but that doesn't
- [Grid Quilt with Sashing and Borders Layout Guide](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2025/01/grid-quilt-with-sashing-and-borders-layout-guide.html) - I almost never include sashing and borders in my quilt patterns. It's just not my favorite. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ But maybe it IS your favorite! That doesn't mean you can't use my patterns. It's easy to add sashing and/or borders to any quilt made from the same size blocks. That example above uses blocks from the Greedy
- [Christmas Pickle - a free crochet pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/11/christmas-pickle-a-free-crochet-pattern.html) - Stacey loves eating pickles, and is a Christmas Pickle Collector - so it's no surprise that she designed a pattern for a crocheted Christmas Pickle! We've updated it here with some new tutorial links. The skills you’ll need for just about any amigurumi are. . . How to Read a Crochet Pattern Starting with a
- [Free Santa's Village Signs to Make a North Pole Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/12/free-santas-village-signs-make-north-pole-quilt.html) - I've been working on a super fun North Pole quilt by adding a bunch of cute Santa's Village signs to houses and buildings made with the Shiny Happy Houses quilt pattern. Happy quilting! Best,Wendi
- [Add a Name and Date to Your Felt Ornaments](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/add-a-name-and-date-to-your-felt-ornaments.html) - All my ornament patterns have solid felt backs - no applique or embroidery. That makes it the perfect spot to add a name or date using this free alphabet embroidery pattern! In my family and in my husband's family, it was a tradition to give handmade ornaments to the kids every year. Having our names on them somewhere
- [Tips and Tricks for Working with Fleece - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/video-tips-and-tricks-for-working-with-fleece.html) - I designed the Franklin the Fat Cat pattern especially for fleece - and that's what you see me working on in this video. If you want to make your own you can get the pattern here. Happy sewing! Best,Wendi
- [Jolly the Elf - a Free Christmas Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/12/jolly-the-elf-a-free-christmas-applique-pattern.html) - This adorable elf pattern is the same size and style as the other free Christmas applique patterns (10 inch finished blocks). There are five now! (You'll find links to all of them at the bottom of this post.) Here's how to make it. (This video shows all the steps for working with fusible adhesive -
- [Make Easy Felt Gift Tags](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/12/make-easy-felt-gift-tags.html) - Wendi
- [Free Felt Chicken Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/free-felt-chicken-pattern.html) - Make a sweet little softie with this free felt chicken pattern. These simple little hens can be so many things! Fill them with heavy aquarium gravel and you have some pretty dang fancy pattern weights. Fill them with lightweight Poly-fil Stuffing and add a loop to the back and you have a pretty ornament for
- [Gingerbread Cookie - Free Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/12/gingerbread-cookie-free-applique-pattern.html) - Every year (almost) I release a free holiday applique pattern. What to do this year? Here are the links to the patterns from previous years. Santa Mrs. Claus Rudolph Snowman Jolly the Elf I've been having a lot of fun with Mix & Match patterns lately, so I decided to make a gingerbread cookie with
- [FreshStitches + Shiny Happy World = One Awesome Crafty Resource!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/12/freshstitches-shiny-happy-world-one-awesome-crafty-resource.html) - If you've been in the Shiny Happy People group last night or this morning, you've gotten a sneak peek at some really big news. Shiny Happy World and FreshStitches are joining forces to become one awesome crafty resource! Let me back up a little. . . When I started Shiny Happy World, I deliberately gave
- [Free Dove Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/11/free-dove-applique-pattern.html) - Use this free dove applique pattern to make all kinds of things! Download the template pieces and placement guide here. If you have an electric cutting machine, you can use it to cut your pieces. Download the SVG file here. The dove combines with all the other free Christmas applique patterns so you can make
- [Mrs. Claus - free applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/11/mrs-claus-free-applique-pattern.html) - Wendi
- [Organizing Embroidery Thread](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/organizing-embroidery-thread.html) - Wendi
- [Free Nutcracker Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/11/free-nutcracker-applique-pattern.html) - Every year (almost) I release a free holiday applique pattern. Here are the links to the patterns from previous years. Santa Mrs. Claus Rudolph Snowman Jolly the Elf Gingerbread Cookie (3 styles!) This year I'd like you to meet the Nutcracker! Now let's jump right to the instructions! These instructions assume you're already familiar with
- [Free Snowman Appliqué Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/11/free-snowman-applique-pattern.html) - Wendi
- [Gingerbread! A Free Felt Christmas Ornament Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/gingerbread-free-felt-christmas-ornament-pattern.html) - 6. Layer the ornament front and back together and whipstitch all around the edges. Whipstitching the edges of the felt is a little different that whipstitch applique, so it has its own video. You can watch it here. Leave the bit under the door open for stuffing. 7. Add a few pinches of stuffing through
- [Free Doll Pattern - Itty Bitty Sleepy Baby](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/free-doll-pattern-itty-bitty-sleepy-baby.html) - Here's a free doll pattern to make a sweet Itty Bitty Sleepy Baby - a cuddly beanbag doll. She's a sleepy little girl who wants to curl up and take a nap in a special someone's pocket. :­) She's super easy to make -­ great for beginners. And she's just the right size to be
- [How to Embroider a Mouth on an Already-Stuffed Softie - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/embroider-mouth-already-stuffed-softie-video.html) - Wendi
- [North Pole Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/11/north-pole-quilt-along.html) - Ready for a fun project? We're having a Quilt-Along through the end of the year! Build a house! Or two. Or a whole neighborhood. :-) I'm going to make a quilt - but you can make anything you like. Here are a bunch of free patterns that would work great with these houses. placemats stocking
- [Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - a free applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/11/rudolph-red-nosed-reindeer-free-applique-pattern.html) - Step 7 Stitch all the edges down. You can use any stitch you like, in matching or contrasting thread. I really love the cartoony look of a simple straight stitch with black thread. I demonstrate sewing with different thread weights here. This post will help you with the order in which to stitch. Step 8
- [Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club Pattern List](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/04/funny-faces-quilt-block-of-the-month-club-pattern-list.html) - Here's a complete list of all the patterns released in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club. The club has been discontinued and replaced with the Everything Under the Sun Club. In a nutshell - sign up (or upgrade) to the paid version of the newsletter ($5 per month or $50 per year)
- [Jack the Tiny Pumpkin - free crochet pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/10/jack-the-tiny-pumpkin-free-crochet-pattern.html) - Make an adorable tiny pumpkin to celebrate Halloween or Thanksgiving! It would also be adorable stitched up in red to be a cherry. :-) Here's how to make it! The skills you’ll need for just about any amigurumi are. . . How to Read a Crochet Pattern Starting with a Sloppy Slip Knot How to
- [Squishy Monster - a free amigurumi pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/squishy-monster-a-free-amigurumi-pattern.html) - These squishy monsters are fast and easy to make - and super fun to play with. :-) The skills you’ll need for just about any amigurumi are. . . How to Read a Crochet Pattern Starting with a Sloppy Slip Knot How to Chain How to Single Crochet Single Crochet Increase Single Crochet Decrease How
- [How to Couch by Machine - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/11/couch-machine-video-tutorial.html) - Couching is a method of sewing 3-dimensional "stuff" (cord, braid, strings of beads or sequins, etc.) to fabric by zigzagging over it. It allows you to sew down things that can't be sewn through. :-) I've got a video here showing how to couch by hand, but you can also use your machine! That's what I demonstrate
- [Are buttons baby safe stuffed animal eyes?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/11/are-buttons-baby-safe-stuffed-animal-eyes.html) - I get a lot of questions about what stuffed animal eyes are safe for babies. Even though craft eyes are often called safety eyes - they are not recommended for use in toys for children under the age of three. I'm often asked, "can I use buttons instead"? In short, the answer is no. To
- [How to Make a Fabric Bookmark](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/how-to-make-a-fabric-bookmark.html) - There are a lot of tutorials out there for fabric bookmarks, but I'm very. . . picky. . . about my bookmarks. I'm a book collector, you see. My husband is a writer. We met when we worked together at an independent bookstore. I spent twenty years selling children's books. Almost all of the art
- [How to crochet a pirate owl!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/how-to-crochet-a-pirate-owl.html) - Have I told you how awesome my customers are? I don't mean to brag but... I'm pretty sure that my customers are the sweetest and most creative crocheters around! Just this week, Adriana was featured on Martingale's blog for crocheting all 18 critters from Crocheted Softies! And today's Tip Tuesday post? Brought to you by
- [How to Give Your Monster an Underbite - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/10/how-to-give-your-monster-an-underbite-video-tutorial.html) - If you have the Mix & Match Monsters applique quilt pattern, you may have wondered about a mysterious dotted line that runs through some of the pattern pieces. Wonder no more! In this video I show you how you can use that line to give your monsters underbites and overbites and add teeth and tongues.
- [Free Trick or Treat Bag Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/10/free-trick-treat-bag-tutorial.html) - Need to whip up a super easy trick or treat bag for Halloween this year? Then I have the pattern for you! It's fully lined (which actually makes construction easier), requires no hand sewing, can be made with any of my square quilt block patterns with no resizing - and you can make it in
- [Everything You Need to Know about Working with Felt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/everything-need-know-working-felt.html) - I LOVE working with felt! The edges don't fray, it's delightfully warm, it takes embroidery beautifully, and it comes in the most luscious colors. But it's different than regular fabric. These tips will make it super easy to work with. Why wool felt? It's way more durable that the cheap acrylic stuff you can buy
- [Working with Flannel Fabric - Durability](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/09/working-flannel-fabric-durability.html) - When I told folks that I was working with flannel on my next quilt, I got a lot of questions. How do you keep it from pilling? Is it going to hold up to a lot of use? What about durability? I got some variation of this question over and over and over again. I
- [Free Pattern! Itty Bitty Pocket Pirate](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/free-pattern-itty-bitty-pocket-pirate.html) - Finished! Slip him into someone's pocket and send him off on an adventure! © Wendi Gratz 2014 This pattern is for personal use only and is not available for commercial resale. That means you may not copy and sell or digitally distribute the pattern. You may, however, sell items you make with the pattern. Like
- [Add a sweater to (almost) any crocheted animal!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/add-a-sweater-to-almost-any-crocheted-animal.html) - Today, I'm sharing a tip that Mariana (from Chile!) came up with while taking my Amigurumi Woodland Animals Class on Craftsy. Is it a pattern for a crocheted sweater? Nope... it's way more clever than that! It's a way of making your animal look like he's wearing a sweater, by following the pattern and just
- [Turn a Witch Hat into a Princess Hat - Easy Peasy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/09/turn-witch-hat-princess-hat-easy-peasy.html) - One of my favorite Dress Up Bunch patterns is this one for a witch costume. As I was making it, I kept thinking that it could easily be converted to a princess costume - just change to a sparkly princess fabric and make a tiny change to the hat. Here's exactly what I mean by
- [Quilt Sizes and Supplies Needed](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/05/quilt-sizes-and-supplies-needed.html) - All of my quilt patterns are really just starting places. I design everything based on a 10-inch square grid, so that you can mix and match individual block patterns however you like. Even if you buy one of my multi-block patterns or bundles, the layout I use for my samples is just one way to
- [Free Beaver Pencil Case Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/free-beaver-pencil-case-pattern.html) - I'm participating in the Back to School Sewing Series with Sulky. You can make this fun pencil case! That beaver can't wait to chomp on all those colored pencils. :-) See a little sneak peek of that beaver design here - including a look at all the beaver designs I didn't use. :-) Materials You
- [Free Pirate Poster Embroidery Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/free-pirate-poster-embroidery-pattern.html) - Talk Like a Pirate Day is coming up soon - September 19th! To celebrate, I'm taking my favorite pirate embroidery pattern and giving it away for free. Free! Stitch up a fun Wanted: Dead or Alive poster. I include a Peg Leg Pete pattern with an image of a boy pirate and also a Hurricane
- [Fish Quilt Step 1 - Quilting the Background Blocks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/fish-quilt-step-1-quilting-background-blocks.html) - And here's one with slightly darker thread. And here's one with some blueish green thread. It's subtle - but I like how it adds to the dapply, watery effect. Read all about choosing colors for your fish here. Read about how I worked with the print of the fabric here. Read about how I did
- [Free Pattern! A Simple Skirt for The Dress Up Bunch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/free-pattern-simple-skirt-dress-bunch.html) - The Dress Up Bunch dolls now have a quick and easy skirt pattern you can make. And it's FREE! Psst! I designed the skirt especially to fit all the dolls in The Dress Up Bunch collection - but it'll also fit a ton of other dolls. It fits the American Girl dolls really well, and
- [Make a Fancy Felt Frame - free tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/08/make-a-fancy-felt-frame-free-tutorial.html) - I had so much fun with the Bears in the Hills project that I immediately needed another way to play with felt applique and embroidery. I had been having glimmers of an idea about using traditional quilt patterns as felt applique and I thought it would be fun to do that as a frame around
- [What size are my craft eyes?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/08/how-to-determine-size-of-plastic-safety-eyes.html) - Do you have some plastic craft eyes in a box somewhere... and you aren't sure how to tell what size they are? Umm... yup, me too. Don't worry! Today, I'll show you how easy it is to figure out what size they are! All you need is a ruler with millimeter measurements. A craft eye
- [Freezer Paper, Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy or Fusible Adhesive? Which Stabilizer to Use When?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/freezer-paper-sulky-sticky-fabri-solvy-or-fusible-adhesive-which-stabilizer-to-use-when.html) - I rely heavily on three products/stabilizers for the work I do. Freezer paper Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy Heat & Bond Fusible Adhesive (You can find links to sources for all of these - and all my other favorite tools and supplies - here.) I recently had someone ask when I use each one - and that's
- [Spooky - a free cat applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/spooky-free-black-cat-applique-pattern.html) - You can add this free cat applique pattern to your Cuddly Cats quilt pattern if you like. I designed it especially to have really terrific eyes for a black cat - but you can make it any color you like. I love black cats! I grew up with two of them - Nasty and Gandalf.
- [Divide and Conquer - How to Pin Long Seams](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/08/divide-and-conquer-how-to-pin-long-seams.html) - Wendi
- [April Showers Bring May Flowers - a BIG embroidery project](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/08/april-showers-bring-may-flowers-big-embroidery-project.html) - This is the last of the BIG embroidery projects I did for the Sulky booth at Spring Quilt Market. Did I say big? It's HUGE - 18 inches tall and 28 inches wide! It's in one of those big oval quilt hoops you can find at Joann's. The biggest one they had. It's crazy big.
- [Putting Fusible Adhesive to the Test](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/putting-fusible-adhesive-test.html) - Let's talk about fusible adhesive. But first - I need to share something. I don't trust glue. To me, glue is something that holds two things in place while you attach them more securely with something else - like screws or stitches. I've just had too many glue fails in my lifetime. I have a
- [How to Make a Greeting Card in Canva](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/08/how-to-make-a-greeting-card-in-canva.html) - Let's make greeting cards using digital clip art and the free version of the Canva app! I've been making clip art of some of my designs for a while now. Mostly the idea was that you could use them to print some art to complement the quilts you make. Maybe you made a Woodland Critters
- [Primavera - an Embroidered Springtime Girl](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/07/vera-springtime-girl-embroidery.html) - Love that sweet face! Here are the other BIG pieces I stitched for the same project. Cat Among the Flowers Embroidered Mandala Sun April Showers These big embroidery pieces have been so much fun! Happy stitching! Best,Wendi
- [Fancy Flowery Felt Coasters - a free pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/fancy-flowery-felt-coasters-free-pattern.html) - Here's a free felt coaster pattern so you can stitch up some fancy floral finery. Coasters are a bit of an issue for me. I have a glass of ice water within reach all day long. I have a lot of potter friends - so most of my cups and glasses are lovely to look
- [How to Sew a Zippered Pillow Cover - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/07/sew-zippered-pillow-cover-video-tutorial.html) - I'm pretty picky about pillow covers. I don't like the envelope backs. They're easy to sew, but they don't cover the pillow as snugly as I like. I like zippered covers, so they cover tightly and can be removed for washing - but I don't like when the zipper is in one of the side
- [How to Applique with Whipstitch - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/applique-whipstitch-video-tutorial.html) - There are a lot of different stitches to choose from when you applique felt - buttonhole stitch and running stitch are especially popular. But my very favorite stitch to use is whip stitch. It's fast. It's easy. I love the way it looks. Want to learn how? Here's a video! See how easy? I stitched
- [How to Make Denim Shorts for The Dress Up Bunch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/denim-shorts-dress-bunch-choose-boydoll.html) - Here's how to make some denim shorts for a doll and give them that cool hem and seam treatment that jeans have. Steal it! Start with the legs from a cut-off pair of jeans (you do save those, don't you?) and the free Play Clothes shorts pattern. The instructions for the shorts say to turn up
- [Summer Beach Ball - a free crochet amigurumi pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/07/summer-beach-ball-a-free-crochet-amigurumi-pattern.html) - Get ready to have fun in the sun with this great stuffed beach ball! This beach ball measures about 4 inches tall when completed with worsted weight yarn - the perfect size for lots of different amigurumi softies. :-) To complete this pattern, you will need. . . 7 colors of worsted weight yarn (assign
- [Tutorial - Make a Tablet Cover](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/07/tutorial-tablet-cover.html) - This post is originally from November 2013. I updated it in July 2017 to add the quilted batik tablet cover I made for my iPad Pro. The day before I left for Quilt Market I decided that a really efficient use of my time would be to make myself a tablet cover using some of my
- [Felt Craft - Free Bear Coasters Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/felt-craft-free-bear-coasters-pattern.html) - You all know how much I love my felt craft projects. :-) My latest are these sweet bear coasters - easy, fun and portable hand stitching. Download the bear templates here. (One sheet has all the pieces needed for six bear coasters.) If you want to make something besides bears, you can use any of
- [Here Comes the Sun! An Embroidered Mandala Sun :-)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/07/embroidered-mandala-sun.html) - Wendi
- [Burnie Bee - Free Crochet Bee Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/burnie-bee-free-crochet-bee-pattern.html) - It’s a bee… but he doesn’t sting! Make a cute little bumbler with this free crochet bee pattern! This is Burnie. (His full name is Vanburn von Bumble Bee.) He's 3” tall and 4.5” long when made with worsted weight yarn. He's super quick and easy to stitch up! The skills you’ll need for just
- [Book Review - All Points Patchwork](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/06/book-review-all-points-patchwork.html) - I may have mentioned once or twice here that I really love handwork. :-) I love the feel of the fabric and thread in my hands. I love the little pop I hear when the eye of the needle with the doubled-over thread passes through the fabric, followed by the low shush of the thread. I love
- [Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/everything-ever-wanted-know-sulky-sticky-fabri-solvy.html) - I call this The Magical Embroidery Stuff. Why? Well, partly because Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy is quite a mouthful. :-) But mostly because I use it for absolutely everything I stitch and it's absolutely magical. It really is one of my favorite products ever. (You can find links to sources for all my favorite supplies here.)
- [Daisy - a Free Felt Bird Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/daisy-free-felt-bird-pattern.html) - Here's a free felt bird pattern for you to play with! Her name is Daisy. :-) Want to make her? All it takes is some felt, a bit of stuffing, and a few easy embroidery stitches. And a pattern, of course. :-) She uses just half a sheet of wool-blend felt for the body (I
- [How to Use Elastic in a Casing - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/video-how-to-use-elastic-in-a-casing.html) - This one's on the longish side, but I show you pretty much everything you need to know about using elastic in a casing. We start with what kind of elastic to use (did you know there were different kinds?), some tips on pre-stretching and measuring, how to measure for and sew the casing, how to
- [How to Gather Fabric - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/video-how-to-gather-fabric.html) - Okay - here's the scoop on how to gather! The video shows two methods - the traditional way (terrific for short pieces) and an easy way to gather fabric (especially good for long pieces). Let's talk about the "old-fashioned" way. In a nutshell, you sew two rows of basting stitches, then draw up the bobbin
- [Fabric Shopping at Shiny Happy World](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/06/fabric-shopping-at-shiny-happy-world.html) - Back when I sold fabric bundles, I created several color palettes that I used over and over again. When particular fabrics went out of print (which they did with annoying frequency) I found new fabrics in those same palettes, so that even when the specific fabrics changed, you (and I) could still get a pretty
- [How to Choose Fabric for a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/06/tips-for-choosing-fabrics-for-a-quilt.html) - I get a lot of questions about how to choose fabric for a quilt. I've got a post here with some tips for beginners on choosing what types of fabric to work with, and I include information with almost all of my quilts about the fabrics I used in my sample, but I realized I've
- [A BIG Embroidery Project - Cat Among the Flowers](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/06/big-embroidery-project-cat-among-flowers.html) - Now that Quilt Market is over I can finally share details about some of those BIG embroidery projects I was working on back in April. :-) This post is all about how I made this cat surrounded by lots and lots of embroidered flowers. It's in an 18-inch hoop! I started out by enlarging my favorite cat
- [My Stitch & Stash Project Bag](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/06/my-stitch-stash-project-bag.html) - I love, love LOVE my new project bag! It makes me smile every time I use it - and I've been using it steadily for about two months now. It's made with the Stitch & Stash Project Bag pattern from Betz White - reversible, with no zippers or velcro to snag on my work, and
- [Evolution of a Mouse - a Peek at the Design Process](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/evolution-mouse-peek-design-process.html) - He's not dead - he's just lying on his back so we can see his bottom. :-)[/caption] See how the "corners" of the body are boxed in? This is very easy to sew. The Ugly Part of the Design Process So - that was two design decisions made. Time to start some prototypes. I sew
- [Teaching Kids to Sew](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/06/teaching-kids-to-sew.html) - Wendi
- [Controlled Chaos - a free scrap quilt pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/08/controlled-chaos-a-free-scrap-quilt-pattern.html) - Before I get to the story - I want to give you all the link to the free scrap quilt pattern. It's really much more than a pattern, because there are also lessons about working with color, and videos teaching all the skills I used - from cutting to sewing, quilting, and binding. It's really a
- [Best Practices for Working with Digital Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/05/best-practices-for-digital-patterns.html) - I love digital patterns! I love instant delivery. I love being able to print directly onto specialty papers like Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy, freezer paper, and fusible adhesive. And I love being able to click through to additional resources and tutorials. But they're new territory for a lot of people! I get a lot of questions
- [Free Felt Matroyshka Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/free-felt-matroyshka-pattern.html) - You could make a set of these in lots of different colors and string them together into a garland. That would be so pretty! If you like this, sign up for the newsletter! You'll get exclusive free patterns, special discounts, and notification of new patterns and tutorials. Happy stitching!
- [Sweet Sylvia Snail - a free embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/sweet-sylvia-snail-free-embroidery-pattern.html) - Sweet Sylvia Snail loves to go for a sloooooow stroll around the garden, stopping at every pretty posy for a sweet sniff. :-) She's small - the total image is under 4 1/2 inches wide and fits nicely in a 6 inch hoop. As with any embroidery pattern, you can enlarge or reduce the pattern
- [Penelope Panda - a free applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/04/penelope-panda-a-free-applique-pattern.html) - The Bunches of Bears quilt pattern has thirteen different bears in it. But you can never have enough bears! And it didn't have a panda so I decided to make one more block - and make it free. :-) Here's how to make it. This video shows all the steps for working with fusible adhesive
- [Shiny Happy World + Michael Miller Fabrics = The Perfect Collaboration](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/05/shiny-happy-world-michael-miller-fabrics-the-perfect-collaboration.html) - Every once in a while a fabric company asks me to work with them on a project - usually for a booth at Quilt Market. When it's the right company and the right project these collaborations can be really fun. Every once in a while lightning strikes and they're so perfect that it's almost magical. The
- [Choosing Fabric for Your Backyard Birds Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/04/choosing-fabric-for-your-backyard-birds-quilt.html) - I've got a post here with general information about choosing fabric for any of my quilts, but choosing fabric for the new Backyard Birds quilt pattern is a whole different beast - worthy of its own post. I've been making sample blocks for this quilt pattern for months now. This one was a doozy! I've
- [Add an Embroidered Label to Your Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/04/add-a-label-to-your-quilt.html) - It's easy to add a quilt label to your creation - and it's fun to make it coordinate with the designs on the front of the quilt. I like my labels to be about 4 inches wide. To resize any block design to fit in that size you print it at 40% of the original
- [Made with Love - Donating Your Handmade Quilts and Softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/made-with-love-donating-your-handmade-quilts-and-softies.html) - I've also heard that Warren makes an excellent post-op cough pillow for kids. People who have had chest or abdominal surgery are taught to hug a pillow when they cough, to help support the incision and ease pain. Warren is just the right size and shape for this. :-) He also has very small arms
- [How to Make a Topsy Turvy Doll from any Rag Doll Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/topsy-turvy-doll-rag-doll-pattern.html) - I've been getting a lot of requests lately for a pattern for a topsy turvy doll. Weird. I have no idea what has prompted the sudden influx. I've had a topsy turvy doll on my Big List o' Things to Make for a long time now, but the number of requests recently made me move
- [Free Pretty Posy Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/free-pretty-posy-applique-pattern.html) - This flower is super simple to make - just three easy pieces. And it mixes in perfectly with the other flowers in the Wild Flowers pattern. Download the pattern here. Cut your background fabric 11 inches square. Cut your batting 11 inches square. Layer the background fabric and the batting and quilt them together. You
- [How to Make a Polaroid Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/09/how-to-make-a-polaroid-quilt.html) - I've been working on this for quite a while now and it's finally here. Instructions to make a Polaroid frame for any of my square applique patterns! Not only that - I'm including instructions (and yardage requirements) for making a whole Polaroid quilt! Let's jump in! Note - the instructions that follow are for my
- [The Evolution of a Sleeping Bag](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/the-evolution-of-a-sleeping-bag.html) - The sleeping bag I designed for the Dress Up Bunch dolls involved a bit of engineering, so I thought I'd share something about my process here. My initial thought was to make a sleeping bag almost exactly like a "real" one. The zipper was going to go down the side and across the bottom, so
- [Fancy Felt Coffee Sleeve - a free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/fancy-felt-coffee-sleeve-free-pattern.html) - Why use those same old cardboard coffee sleeves when you can use a fancy felt coffee sleeve - all pretty and touchable? Materials you'll need 1 sheet wool-blend felt (I used Babbling Brook) scraps of wool felt for the flowers and butterflies embroidery thread in assorted colors 2 inches hook & loop tape freezer paper
- [Does The Magical Embroidery Stuff work on wool felt?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/magical-embroidery-stuff-work-wool-felt.html) - So - just how magical is The Magical Embroidery Stuff (aka Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy)? Does it work on wool felt? I've gotten this question a lot lately and the answer is. . . OHMYGOSHYESITWORKSBEAUTIFULLYANDILOVEITSOSOSOMUCH!!! Seriously - every time I try this stuff on something new I'm even more impressed with it. Here's the scoop on
- [Goody Bags - Free Sewing Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/goody-bags-free-sewing-pattern.html) - A couple of years ago I started building up a stash of reusable fabric gift bags - and working down my stash of gift wrap. This little bag is one of my favorite sizes - roughly 4 inches wide x 7 inches tall x 2 inches deep. It's perfect for small gifts - and it
- [Make Extra Fun Rag Dolls with Faux Fur Hair](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/make-extra-fun-rag-dolls-with-faux-fur-hair.html) - A couple more things. . . I used Poppy's bangs with this doll and they come down pretty close to her eyes. If you're using a very long fur you might want to choose a doll with a higher hairline. I skip the pigtails or the buns when I work with fur. They just don't work very well with
- [Adorable Easter Eggs - a free crochet pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/adorable-easter-eggs-a-free-crochet-pattern.html) - Stitch up some easy crocheted Easter eggs with this free pattern. These little eggs are super fun to stitch up - and a great way to use up your smallest yarn scraps. The pattern includes instructions for a plain egg, a striped egg, and a spotted egg. Are you new to crochet and you don't
- [How to Piece Batting Together - a Thrifty Trick](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/how-to-piece-batting-together-a-thrifty-trick.html) - Did you know you can piece together batting scraps? Sometimes when I'm cleaning out my sewing room, I ask myself why I'm keeping all these long skinny strips of batting around. They're mostly strips cut off the edge of a quilt after quilting and can be anywhere from 5-10 inches wide. This week I was
- [Bears in the Hills - WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/bears-in-the-hills-wip.html) - I don't usually do all caps but. . . I AM SO EXCITED WITH HOW THIS IS TURNING OUT! Seriously! I can't wait to get these guys in a frame to start stitching. You're going to have to pry me out of my couch for the next few weeks. :-) And that's not all! I
- [Free Embroidery Files for Machine Stitched Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/free-embroidery-files-machine-stitched-eyes.html) - I know the eyes are the trickiest part of my applique patterns. I've got a video here showing some tips for outlining them, and I have a tutorial here showing a cheater-pants way to stitch the very small Paper Doll quilt eyes on many regular sewing machines. But I've heard from several of you who have
- [Free Easter Embroidery Pattern - Little Chick with Big Feet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/free-easter-embroidery-pattern-little-chick-big-feet.html) - Here's a super simple Easter embroidery pattern - easy enough for even the littlest kids to stitch. I originally published this back in 2011 - but now it's updated with new images and links to video tutorials. I can't wait to see the new chicks you make! Back when I released the chickens embroidery pattern,
- [Organizing Your Embroidery Thread](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/organizing-your-embroidery-thread.html) - In a newsletter a couple of weeks ago, I showed you all how I organize my embroidery thread. It's not perfect, and I asked you to tell me your methods. Wendi (not me, though I admire her spelling flair) from SewCatSew shared her method and I've decided that she is a genius. I'm going to adopt
- [Easter Craft Ideas - Free Embroidered Felt Egg Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/easter-craft-ideas-free-embroidered-felt-egg-pattern.html) - Looking for some easy and fun Easter craft ideas? You (yes, you!) can stitch up a lovely felt egg just like this one. What do you need? Some felt. Preferably wool felt. It's dreamy to stitch on and you can find it in hundreds of gorgeous colors. You'll need embroidery thread. Use any colors you like -
- [Triangle Toys - a free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/triangle-toys.html) - Sometimes it's really good just to play around with a crazy idea or set of rules and see what I come up with. Several years ago I was playing with some basic geometric shapes and I tried to see how many animals I could come up with, and how much I could simplify its features
- [Free Pattern - Easter Accessories for Toys](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/free-pattern-easter-accessories-toys.html) - You know what your favorite toy needs for Easter? Adjustable bunny ears and a tiny embroidered egg! I made these to fit The Oddballs - but guess what? They fit all kinds of things! In a completely unscientific test, my daughter and I tried them on almost all the softies in the enormous pile on
- [How to Whipstitch Felt - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/video-how-to-whipstitch-felt.html) - I've already got a video showing the basics of how to whipstitch. It's a great way to sew up a stuffing opening in a softie, and that's what I demonstrate in the original. When you're working with felt, the basic mechanics of how to whipstitch are the same. But felt is a little different than
- [Free Embroidery Pattern - Vroom Vroom!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/free-embroidery-pattern-vroom-vroom.html) - Want to play with a free embroidery pattern? Here's one that's great for beginners. It's super easy - just a bunch of backstitching and one lone French knot - which you can replace with a tiny straight stitch. I colored the image in with colored pencils before stitching, but you could certainly fill with the
- [Stuffed Animal Ears That Stand Up But Are Still Soft - Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/stuffed-animal-ears-that-stand-up-still-soft-tutorial.html) - It's to give a stuffed animal ears that stand up! I usually design my softies with floppy ears - often with a satin lining. I've known SO MANY kids who use softie ears like a blankie - clutching them or rubbing them as they fall asleep - that making blankie-like ears is kind of my
- [Baby Bear Booties - a free felt booties pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/baby-bear-booties-a-free-felt-booties-pattern.html) - I've been meaning to make some little felt baby booties for a while now. A friend of mine just had a baby shower so the time was finally right for you all to get the free felt booties pattern I've had in my head for so long. :-) These were really easy to stitch up
- [Free - Wavy Waves Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2024/01/free-wavy-waves-applique-pattern.html) - Add some waves to your quilts with this free applique pattern! In addition to the wavy stripes you see in the top image, the free pattern also includes a template designed to use at the bottom of a block, in combination with an animal applique. Here's an example. These waves will work particularly well with
- [Tips for Dark Eyes on Dark Softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/tips-dark-eyes-dark-softies.html) - Felix is a new crochet pattern and I love him. :-) For the pattern I stitched him up in yellow, because lighter (and solid) colors make it easier to see the individual stitches. But I also wanted to make him in this tweedy dark brown for more of a tortoiseshell cat look - just for fun.
- [Today is going to be great! - Free Felt Pattern for January](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/today-going-great-free-felt-pattern-january.html) - Happy New Year! I'm a morning person. I really do wake up most of the time happy and excited to start my day. I know this can be super annoying. I live with two not-morning people who speak in grunts for the first hour they're up. By the time they wake up I've usually been working
- [Video - How to Add Freckles to Your Rag Doll](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/video-add-freckles-rag-doll.html) - A while back, someone suggested that one of the rag dolls (I think it was Poppy) needed freckles. I made a note of it, and when I started working on the new Dress Up Bunch doll pattern for Emily - I added freckles! It's really easy - you just need to do some testing to
- [How to Embed Rickrack in a Seam - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-how-to-embed-rickrack-in-a-seam.html) - Rickrack is THE BEST. When my daughter was little I made her a fabulous pair of pants. They were a super simple pattern, made of deep green velvet. What made them extra special was the pink rickrack I embedded in the side seams so the little waves peeked out between the two layers. That turned
- [What kind of fabric can I use for embroidery?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/ask-wendi-what-kind-of-fabric-can-i-use-for-embroidery.html) - Every week I get questions from all of you. Good questions! And I try to answer them as quickly as I can. But I figure for every one of you that actually sends a question - a bunch of other readers have been wondering the exact same thing. So I'll still answer your questions directly
- [Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy - Embroidery Pattern Transfer and Stabilizer](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/new-video-and-magical-new-embroidery-product.html) - I was browsing through the Sulky website recently and I saw Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy - a stabilizer that I've never seen in a store or even heard of. It sounded amazing, but it was kind of expensive and I thought it might be too good to be true so I ordered just one package to
- [It's Raining Rainbows - a free embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/its-raining-rainbows-a-free-pattern.html) - This adorable rainbow embroidery pattern is perfect for beginners. It uses just one (ONE!) easy stitch. And it's free! Download the rainbow embroidery pattern here. My favorite way to transfer embroidery patterns is to use Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy. You can see some other embroidery transfer methods here. I used running stitch for the whole thing -
- [How to Make a Cloth Book](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/12/how-to-make-a-cloth-book.html) - People call them cloth books, quiet books, soft books - whatever you call them they're easy and fun to make and a great way to get extra use out of your patterns. The instructions below are for a 12-page book, 8 inches square, with flannel "batting" to make the pages extra soft and snuggly. Download
- [Heart Garland - a free pattern for Valentine's Day](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/heart-garland-free-pattern-valentines-day.html) - Crafting for Valentine's Day is so much fun - especially since you don't have to put the decorations away after the holiday's over. Hearts never go out of season! This pretty heart garland is easy to make (Just one stitch! And there's a link to a video showing you how to do it!) and it's
- [Fancy Schmancy Felt Garland - free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/fancy-schmancy-felt-garland-free-pattern.html)
- [Using QAYG with Sashing - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/using-qayg-with-sashing-video-tutorial.html) - I've had SO MANY people ask how they can use QAYG with sashing. So many! I don't usually use sashing (or borders) in my quilts - but for this dinosaur quilt I really wanted them to divide the long panorama-style rows of dinosaur landscapes. So it's the perfect opportunity for a video! I need to
- [Adding Sashing to (Almost) Any Shiny Happy World Quilt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/08/adding-sashing-to-almost-any-shiny-happy-world-quilt-pattern.html) - For years I've had people ask me about adding sashing to a quilt pattern from Shiny Happy World. That's an easy question. Yes! You can always modify any pattern to add (or take away) sashing. Sometimes they have another question. How does adding sashing to a quilt change the yardage they need to buy? Well
- [How to Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/11/how-to-make-a-quilt.html) - You'll find hundreds of helpful tutorials here at Shiny Happy World, but sometimes all that help can be a little overwhelming. Where should you start? Making a quilt really boils down to six steps. Step 1 - Pick Your Pattern You can make a quilt with one block repeated over and over again, or make
- [Fusible Applique the Easy Way](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/06/fusible-applique-the-easy-way.html) - Fusible applique is my favorite applique method. It's fast and easy and it really lets me play with my designs. I've been using this method for some time now, and I've refined the method I use. The most recent big change was adding SVG files to my patterns for use with electric cutting machines like
- [Quilt As You Go - Everything You Need to Know](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/quilt-as-you-go-everything-you-need-to-know.html) - The Quilt As You Go lessons, videos and patterns are the most popular pages here at Shiny Happy World. That makes sense! It's a super easy and fun way of quilting, and I don't know of anyone else who does it quite the way I do. Over time I've added a bunch of tutorials to
- [Instructions for Cut & Sew Christmas Stockings](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/10/instructions-for-cut-sew-christmas-stockings.html) - Make adorable Christmas stockings using a yard of cut & sew fabric. These stockings are SUPER easy to make, and there are instructions printed right on the fabric. But if you've never sewn a stitch before and you want a little extra help you can find additional instructions (with videos) here. Buy your fabric here.
- [Free Moose Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/free-moose-applique-pattern.html) - Every time I release a pattern I get requests for additional blocks. It's usually just one or two people with very specific requests, but when I released the Woodland Critters pattern I got a LOT of requests for a moose block. Clearly I should have included a moose! I can fix that. :-) So here's
- [Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/04/funny-faces-quilt-block-of-the-month-club.html) - You're invited to join the club! Membership costs just $4 a month. Every month (on the 15th) members get a new pattern for a fun applique quilt block. The blocks are all sized to finish at 10 inches square - so you can join them together into a funny faces quilt, or mix and match
- [Ten Free Crochet Monster Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/ten-free-crochet-monster-patterns.html) - Stacey designed ten (TEN) free crochet monster patterns in partnership with Ella Rae yarns! I'm a huge fan of monsters and these guys are adorable! Mixtro is my favorite. :-) The patterns are all posted on the Knitting Fever website. You can find the direct links to each monstrous pattern here. . . Alfo Bixi
- [Buzz - a Free Bird Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/buzz-free-bird-applique-pattern.html) - Here's a free bird applique pattern for you to play with! The Chirp Quilt pattern has thirteen different applique birds in it. I usually do twelve, but this time I added one more because I wanted to balance out right, left and forward facing birds. So I decided to make one of the blocks available
- [Howie the Penguin - free crochet amigurumi pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/howie-penguin-free-crochet-amigurumi-pattern.html)
- [How to Squish Two Animals into One Block](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/08/how-to-squish-two-animals-into-one-block.html) - All of my applique quilt patterns (except the Paper Dolls) are built on a 10-inch grid, and I almost always design one animal for each block. But sometimes you may want to squish two animals into one block! Maybe it's a social animal like those meerkats in the first photo. Maybe you want to add
- [How to crochet in joined rounds](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/how-to-crochet-in-joined-rounds.html) - I usually crochet my rounds in spirals: which means that I go around and around continuously. It's an easy technique. The main downside, though, is that if you're crocheting stripes, you get pesky little jogs in the color changes. The solution is to crochet in joined rounds. That means, at the start of each round,
- [Tutorial: How to crochet with beads (video)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/beading.html) - Crocheting with beads can be tricky. Many techniques call for adding the bead to the stitch as you go, which isn't great for traveling, and the bead doesn't sit nicely. Want to see the beading technique I developed? In this technique, the beads sit nicely on the front loop of the piece, so we'll be
- [Simple wrist exercises for knitters and crocheters (video)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/simple-wrist-exercises-for-knitters-and-crocheters-video.html) - My wrist exercises for knitters and crocheters blog post has been super-popular... and some folks have asked me, "Can we see the exercises in action?" Well, sure! So, here's a video of some little stretches and exercises you can do to keep your wrists happy! Click 'play', then the rectangle in the lower right corner
- [How to Clean Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/how-to-clean-amigurumi-crochet-stuffed-animal.html) - Happy Tip Tuesday! I get asked pretty often, 'how do you wash your amigurumi, especially if you use non-machine washable yarn?' Well, that's today's topic! I crocheted two owls that I used as cake toppers. Even though the icing was pretty hardened, one owl inevitably ended up with icing on his owl-butt. Ooops. Even though
- [5 Tips for Getting Accurate Row Gauge](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/5-tips-for-getting-accurate-gauge.html) - When you crochet amigurumi, accurate gauge isn't super important. Your softie may end up a little bigger or smaller than the pattern says, but it'll still work out just fine. There's a post here showing how to crochet giant amigurumi. You just make a huge change to the gauge by using thicker yarn and a
- [How to Measure Gauge for Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/01/how-to-measure-gauge-for-amigurumi.html) - First of all - gauge isn't that important for amigurumi. You could make hundreds of amigurumi and never once measure the gauge. When do you need to worry about it? One - if you want your finished project to turn out the size the pattern says it will be. Two - if you have exactly
- [How to Crochet Skinny Parts Like Legs and Antennae](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/how-to-crochet-skinny-parts-like-legs-antennae.html) - Do you need to crochet skinny parts for things like antennae and legs? If there's one part of an amigurumi pattern that can make people feel cranky, that's it. They're tiny and sometimes they wind up inside out! Eep! Today, I'll show you how to make sure you're crocheting right-side out and how to count
- [How to work small pieces in the round](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/08/how-to-work-small-pieces-in-the-round.html) - Most amigurumi crocheters have run into a classic problem: crocheting in the round on a tiny piece is annoying! Well, I have a tip that I think will help out. What do I mean by 'crocheting on a tiny piece'? I'm not just talking about crocheting with thread! Even if you are working with a
- [Too tight foundation row?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/06/too-tight-foundation-row.html) - For some amigurumi pieces, you'll need to crochet a foundation row, instead of working straight out from a circle. An example is when I was crocheting the leg of Gordon the Flamingo. Sometimes, when you begin with a foundation chain, the stitches in the chain can be too small, making the top of the leg
- [Help! Crocheting in the back loop is too hard!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/help-crocheting-back-loop-only-technique.html) - Today's tip is inspired by a customer question! Recently, I received this email from Nicole: I saw that your recommend stitching in the back and it looks a lot nicer. I can do it but it is very difficult. I find it very hard to get my hook into that stitch. For some reason that
- [Am I crocheting inside-out?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/right-side-wrong-side-in-crochet.html) - Am I crocheting inside out? I've been getting asked this question a lot recently, and when I get the same question more than once, I know it's time for a blog post! It's pretty common for folks on discussion boards to say that you have to crochet with the right side facing out. This makes
- [What's a pinkie do while crocheting? Tension the yarn!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/how-to-hold-yarn-with-pinkie-crochet.html) - There's no right way to hold your yarn while crocheting. Whatever works for you is the way you should do it! But, I'm often asked how I hold my yarn... so I'll tell you! You may like it, you may not. My feelings won't be hurt if it's not for you! I'm right-handed, so I
- [How to Count the Number of Stitches in a Round (crochet)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/how-to-count-the-number-of-stitches-in-a-round-crochet.html) - When you crochet in the round, it can be tricky to count your stitches. But counting is important to make sure that you're on track for following your pattern. Today, I'll show you how to count your stitches! The loop on the hook doesn't count! Here's a photo of my work: Do you see the
- [How to crochet the mane on a lion!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/08/how-to-crochet-the-mane-on-a-lion.html) - Our Kepler the Lion CAL is well underway! The pattern is available for sale here. The trickiest part about this pattern is the mane. And although the pattern has step-by-step photos, I thought you might enjoy a little video that demonstrates the hardest part: planning and doing the first round of single crochets for the
- [How to Crochet a Donut Shape](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/how-to-crochet-donut-shape.html) - Learning to crochet a donut shape is really handy! Unstuffed, I especially like using it for fish mouths. You can see it here in this seahorse crochet pattern. And here on the lips of this fish pattern. If you add stuffing, you can make a swim ring for your stuffed animals, like Walter here. You
- [How to crochet a ruffle on a completed amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/how-to-crochet-a-ruffle-on-a-completed-amigurumi.html) - Today, I'm going to show you how to crochet a ruffle onto a (nearly) finished amigurumi. For those of you who are participating in the slug-a-long, you'll find that this is exactly how you attach the slug's foot! (Get the slug pattern here.) Step 1: Attach a new length of yarn For attaching a ruffle
- [How to Crochet Together Two Rounds Separated by a Foundation Chain - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/crochet-together-two-rounds-separated-foundation-chain-video-tutorial.html) - Whew! That's quite a mouthful! But it's actually a really easy technique that lets you get two bumps with some space between them, like the awesome googly eyes on this frog. If you've crocheted standing legs in an amigurumi before, this is going to look really familiar to you. :-) Here's the video. See how
- [How to Crochet a Pocket Mouth - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/10/how-to-crochet-a-pocket-mouth-video-tutorial.html) - Have you seen Merrick Monster yet? He has a cute pocket mouth (just like Munch) - and is where I'm currently storing my favorite crochet hooks. :-) That pocket mouth is really easy to do - and it would be an easy mod to add to just about any other pattern! Here's how to do
- [How to Crochet Scallops - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/09/how-to-crochet-scallops-video-tutorial.html) - Want to lean how to crochet scallops? It's super easy and gives you a nice swoopy edge. The new Flit the Fairy pattern uses scallops in two ways! Scallops give her hair that cute, curly edge, and when she turns around you can see that the edges of her wings also have scallops. So fancy!
- [How to Crochet an Underbite](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/06/how-to-crochet-an-underbite.html) - Crochet underbites are one of my favorite things. Actually - not just crocheted. An underbite instantly makes all critters cuter! I've got a tutorial here showing how to add an underbite when you're doing applique. But back to crochet. Luckily - an underbite is especially easy to do in crochet. Here's a video showing how,
- [How to Single Crochet One Row Below - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/how-to-single-crochet-one-row-below-video-tutorial.html) - Did you know you can crochet one row below where you would normally crochet? It's a nifty little trick that can create a neat new texture on the surface of your fabric - but it can have an extra benefit for amigurumi. It can make your shape bend! In this terrific video, Stacey shows you
- [How to Crochet an Oval for Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/how-to-crochet-oval-amigurumi.html) - Why would you need to learn how to crochet an oval? Well, I love making softies with oval bases. They require shaping that's a little different than your usual amigurumi rounds - but they're not hard to do. There are two basic techniques for creating an oval. Each one gives you a slightly different look,
- [A shortcut for crocheting stuffed animals more quickly!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/a-shortcut-for-crocheting-stuffed-animals-more-quickly.html) - It's Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to share my trick for cutting down on the crochet-time of an adorable stuffed animal! We've all been there before: you have a baby shower/birthday party/event to go to this weekend, you want to crochet an adorable stuffed animal, but you don't have a lot of time. What can
- [How to Crochet the Bottom Side of a Foundation Chain](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/how-to-crochet-the-bottom-side-of-a-foundation-chain.html) - Today, I'm going to talk about an instruction that can be confusing the first time you see it. Rotate your piece to work the bottom of the foundation chain. What does that mean? I'll show you both in photos and in video how to do it! It's a great technique for achieving an oval shape
- [How to crochet a smaller amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/12/how-to-crochet-small-amigurumi-tip-design.html) - The easiest way to make a smaller amigurumi is to use thinner yarn and a smaller hook. You can even use embroidery thread! But if you want to use regular yarn, there's still a way to do it! You'll need to do some figuring on your own, but altering existing patterns is the first step
- [How to Do Barberpole Striping in Crochet!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/how-to-do-barberpole-striping-in-crochet.html) - Today's guest tutorial is written by Jennifer Crowley, the designer/teacher/blogger at www.tinkingturtle.com. Jennifer teaches both knitting & crocheting, and you can check out her designs on Ravelry. Recent and upcoming publications include Sockupied, Knitpicks and Classic Elite Yarns. Today, she's sharing with us a technique for working two colors in crochet... one I had never
- [4 easy tips for crocheting a giant amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/4-easy-tips-for-crocheting-a-giant-amigurumi.html) - It's easy to crochet a giant amigurumi by using a thicker yarn and a larger hook! The result is a super-large animal, with the same amount of crochet work! Want to give it a try? Here are some tips. Use multiple strands if a thicker yarn isn't available Super-bulky yarns can be pricey and have
- [Tip for working long color changes in crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/tip-for-working-long-color-changes-in-crochet.html) - Happy Tip Tuesday! Last week, I talked about how to crochet with 2 colors of yarn, using a technique called stranding. This technique works wonderfully when there are only a few stitches between color changes. I get a lot of questions about how to handle the color changes for the body of Nelson the Owl.
- [How to crochet with 2 colors, stranding](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/how-to-crochet-with-2-colors-stranding.html) - Hi everyone! On this Tip Tuesday, I'm going to talk about how to crochet with 2 (or more) colors by stranding the unused color along the back of the work. This is a great technique to use for crocheting vertical stripes, or other patterns where there aren't many stitches between color changes. Since I know
- [How to Crochet Stripes with Minimal Jog - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/how-to-crochet-stripes-with-minimal-jog-a-video-tutorial.html) - I love stripes! Crocheted stripes, sewn stripes, quilted stripes, embroidered stripes, sewing with striped fabric - I love it all! When you change color in crochet, it leaves an abrupt step between the colors. That's called a jog. Most of the time that doesn't bother me at all, but sometimes I want to make it
- [How to Crochet Four Legs Together - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/04/how-to-crochet-four-legs-together-video-tutorial.html) - Learn to crochet a stuffed animal standing on four legs with this easy video tutorial.
- [How to Change Colors in Single Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/tutorial-changing-colors-in-single-crochet.html) - How's your cow (for the FreshStitches CAL) coming along? You already know that I'm making a rainbow cow... basically, changing to a new color every few rows to get rainbow-y stripes. Do you want to know how to change colors? Of course you do! So, I made this little video of me doing the first
- [How to Crochet Standing Legs with No Hole](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/how-to-crochet-standing-legs-with-no-hole.html) - Today we're lucky enough to have a guest post written by Mirena of Mirena Made! Mirena has been a FreshStitches customer for years, and she creates hand-crocheted creations that she sells in her shop. (Yes, you too can sell anything you make with Shiny Happy World or FreshStitches patterns!) Thank you so much, Mirena, for
- [How to add adorable felt eyes to your amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/felt-eyes-baby-safe-crochet-amigurumi-how-to.html) - Today's guest post is written by Alyssa, who has a gift for making fabulous felt eyes. Today, she's going to let us in on her secret... so we can make fabulous felt eyes, too! (Alyssa wrote this specifically about amigurumi - but the technique works for any softies.) Why use felt? I like to use
- [How to crochet standing legs for your amigurumi (video)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/how-to-crochet-standing-legs-for-your-amigurumi-video.html) - One of the first steps you'll take as you move beyond the easiest of the easy patterns is to learn how to crochet standing legs. That one skill opens up all kinds of new pattern possibilities - and it's one of my favorite body shapes. You can see it in Byron the Bear. Roy the
- [How to Remove Safety Craft Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-remove-safety-craft-eyes.html) - I recommend using safety craft eyes (the ones with little ridges on the post) for my amigurumi because they're difficult to remove (meaning they'll withstand the pulling and prodding of small children). The downside, however, is that they're difficult to remove - especially when you make a mistake in positioning them. The best defense, obviously,
- [Tip for Attaching Craft Eyes through Thick Layers](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/tip-for-attaching-craft-eyes-through-thick-layers.html) - Today's guest post is written by Nichole of Niccup Crochet. I'm really excited about this post, because Nichole has come up with a solution (little did I know until she mentioned it!) that has been plaguing many crocheters. When attaching craft eyes (or 'safety eyes') to an amigurumi, it can be really tough to get
- [How to Paint Your Own Craft Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/how-to-paint-your-own-craft-eyes.html) - You can get craft eyes in lots of fun colors, and I show you how to use them here. But, what do you do if you want something you can't find in a shop? Like pink eyes? Or glitter eyes? Or polka dot eyes? Hmm... those would be hard to find. You can paint them
- [How to Use Safety Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/07/how-to-use-safety-eyes.html) - Craft eyes. Plastic eyes. Safety eyes. Animal eyes. They're called lots of different things! You can use them for both sewn and crocheted softies. I've even used them in applique wall hangings. I just use a pair of wire cutters to snip off the post that sticks out after you attach the washers. I've made
- [How to Make a Pompom Tail - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/make-pompom-tail-video-tutorial.html) - We're hopping into spring - which means it's a useful time to know how to make a quick and easy pompom tail. :-) There are lots of great pompom tools out there (I especially love this adorable llama-themed one from Betz White) but sometimes you just have your hands and a pair of scissors on
- [Which eyes should I use for Amigurumi?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/how-to-make-eyes-for-crochet-amigurumi.html) - I love crocheting stuffed animals. And do you know my favorite part? Putting the eyes in! It's when the animal comes to life! Eyes are what gives the animal an expression... and my heart always fills with joy when it's time to add them! There are lots of choices for eyes, so today, I'm going
- [How to add hair to your amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/how-to-add-yarn-hair-to-amigurumi-tutorial.html) - I'll be frank. I was scared of adding hair to my amigurumi designs. It seemed complicated. But not adding hair was limiting me... I mean, what's a horse without a flowing mane? So, I decided to break out of my shell... and do you know what? Adding hair isn't that hard. Let me show you
- [How to attach felt to your amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/how-to-attach-felt-to-your-amigurumi.html) - Adding a small piece of felt decoration can be a quick and easy way to add character to your amigurumi faces! In today's blog post, I'll show you how to do it! The Glue Basically, any glue that works on fabrics will work for yarn, as well. I use Aleene's Original Tacky Glue. The glue
- [How to embroider a smile on your amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/how-to-embroider-a-smile-on-your-amigurumi.html) - About a week ago, Tiffany wrote on the FreshStitches Facebook wall, and asked if I could post about how to embroider a smile on amigurumi. Sure thing! If you're shaky on doing embroidery, check out my video on embroidering amigurumi. That'll help you with the basic technique. And now, I'll show you how to get
- [Tips for attaching a dress to your doll](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/tips-for-attaching-a-dress-to-your-doll.html) - How's your doll coming along? I've been seeing some fabulous works-in-progress and finished dolls in the Ravelry Doll-a-long thread... have I seen yours? Today, I'm going to share some tips for crocheting on the dress/skirt/tutu for your doll! Tip 1: Start without a head The dress can be added after your doll has been stuffed
- [How to Embroider with Yarn](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/how-to-embroider-with-yarn.html) - Today, I'm going to show you how I embroider features on my stuffed animals. It's a little different than regular embroidery... because you stuff the inside of an animal, there's no need to worry about tying knots! There's a video at the end of this post too - for those who want to see every
- [How to 'attach with a single crochet'](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/how-to-attach-with-a-single-crochet.html) - Occasionally, in a pattern, you'll read the instruction 'attach with a sc'. What does this mean? I'll tell you! Attach with a single crochet This technique is used to attach a new yarn to an existing crocheted work. It's used in the doll patterns to attach a piece of clothing like a dress or a
- [Using the Running Stitch for Attaching Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/running-stitch-attaching-amigurumi-how-to.html) - Hooray! It's another Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to show you a new stitch to use for attaching amigurumi pieces that'll be super-useful... the running stitch! The running stitch is what you probably used on those lacing cards you had as a kid... so it's not complicated to do. When you run your needle up,
- [How to attach a folded ear to two rounds](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/how-to-attach-a-folded-ear-to-two-rounds.html) - Happy Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to talk to you about an instruction that pops up in Flavia the Unicorn: Flatten ear and then fold ear in half, and attach to the head (at rounds 6-7) so that the opening of the fold faces forward. The potentially tricky bit in this instruction is that you're
- [How to attach a folded ear to amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/how-to-attach-a-folded-ear-to-amigurumi.html) - Today I’m going to show you how to attach a folded ear when making amigurumi. There are two kinds of folds you’ll see a lot. You can fold the ear in half, like you see here on Jackie the cow. . . . . . and also here on Roosevelt the Monster. I also really like ears
- [How to attach a flattened piece in amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/how-to-attach-a-flattened-piece-in-amigurumi.html) - Every once in a while, you'll come across instructions that tell you to 'flatten piece, and attach'. But, what does that mean? Today, I'll show you step-by-step! Let's assume we've followed the crochet instructions, and we have a piece (that's been worked in the round), and we've fastened off. The piece will look something like
- [How to give your amigurumi a great-looking neck!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-amigurumi-crochet-defined-neck-technique.html) - What's the feature that every amigurumi covets? Is it long shapely legs? A bikini-ready body? Of course not! It's a nicely defined neck! Fortunately, creating a shapely neck is easy! How to create a shapely neck Sometimes, amigurumi come down with 'Thick Neck Syndrome'... it's not their fault, and it's up to you (their maker)
- [How to attach nicely rounded pieces to amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/how-to-attach-nicely-rounded-pieces-to-amigurumi.html) - I've written about how to evenly place limbs on amigurumi by using the stitches as a grid for placement. But, sometimes, if you follow the grid technique, you get pieces that look square when they should be round: Can you see a pointy corner on this platypus eyeball? Fear not... this is easy to fix!
- [Which loop to use when attaching...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/which-loop-to-use-when-attaching-amigurumi-crochet-pieces.html) - Yay, it's Tuesday... which means it's time to share another amigurumi-making tip! This week, I'm answering a question sent in to me by Mary: When attaching parts do you sew into both loops on the piece to be added? Which do you recommend? Excellent question! And I have two answers. The first answer is that
- [Tips for attaching amigurumi features](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/tips-for-attaching-amigurumi-features-pieces-help.html) - Attaching facial features can be one of the trickiest parts of making stuffed animals... but it's also what brings your cutie to life! With just a few tricks, you'll be positioning and attaching features with ease... and love your finished result! Using Locking Stitch Markers for Positioning I've already talked about how to use locking
- [How to Attach Arms and Legs with Single Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/attach-arms-legs-single-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - When you crochet amigurumi, there are a couple of ways to attach arms and legs (and other parts). Sometimes you attach amigurumi limbs after you've made and stuffed all the parts using whipstitch and a tapestry needle. (There's a tutorial here showing that method.) This is necessary if the attachment runs across several rows of
- [How to tie a knot in amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/how-to-tie-a-knot-in-amigurumi-croche.html) - It's another Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to show you, step-by-step, how I tie a knot in my amigurumi to secure limbs. My preferred method of tying knots in amigurumi is to attach the limbs to the body before the body is stuffed, so that you can tie the knot on the wrong side of
- [How to Attach Limbs to Crochet Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/how-to-attach-limbs-to-crochet-amigurumi.html) - Most people tell me that they've got a handle on the crocheting part... but when it comes to assembling amigurumi pieces, they dread it! That makes me sniffle... making amigurumi should be 100% fun! So, in this post, I'll show you how to attach limbs easily and evenly... taking all the stress out of sewing.
- [How to Fasten off Amigurumi pieces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/how-to-fasten-off-amigurumi-pieces.html) - In amigurumi patterns, you'll often see the instructions 'Fasten off' or 'Fasten off with a long tail'. What does that mean? No worries, I'm here to tell you! Fasten off. Whenever you're making a piece, and you've finished all the crocheting... you've got to end it! Even though the instruction 'fasten off' may sound a
- [Closing Up the Final Rounds on Amigurumi - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/closing-up-the-final-rounds-on-amigurumi-video-tutorial.html) - Those last couple of rounds of closing up an amigurumi can feel kind of awkward and tricky. Here Stacey shows you exactly how to do it. See? It's really not hard to do - just kind of awkward to hold. :-) For some extra tips on keeping the stuffing out of your last stitches, take
- [How to Keep Stuffing from Showing through Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/01/how-to-keep-stuffing-from-showing-through-amigurumi.html) - It's a common problem when making amigurumi: the stuffing sometimes can be seen through the stitches, something nobody wants! Fortunately, there are a couple of ways to minimize the stuffing from poking through the stitches. The photo below is one of my amigurumi... and you can't see a single bit of white fluff! Crochet through
- [How to Close Up Your Stuffing Opening with the Drawstring Method](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/10/how-to-close-up-your-stuffing-opening-with-the-drawstring-method.html) - Recently I've been looking for a different way to close my amigurumi. Slipstitching across the opening works just fine, but sometimes it leaves a pointier top than I would like. I wanted something that was more consistently smooth. After a bunch of experimentation, I decided on a new method where I close up the top
- [What a difference stuffing makes!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/what-a-difference-stuffing-makes.html) - I've crocheted two monsters using the same pattern (Roy the Rainbow Monster) and similar yarn... but they look a little bit different. Do you know why? It's the stuffing! Notice that the monster on the left has a fuller body, and less stuffed arms. This results in almost no space between the legs, a round head
- [Tips for stuffing large amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/08/tips-for-stuffing-large-amigurumi.html) - This post has some great general info about stuffing amigurumi. Read on for some extra tips for getting arms and legs stuffed evenly! You probably wouldn't be too surprised if I told you that how you stuff your amigurumi is important. After all, you spend lots of time crocheting... you want to end up with
- [How to sc3tog](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/how-to-sc3tog.html) - Insert your hook into the next stitch, and wrap the yarn over the hook and pull through. There are now two loops on the hook: Do the same thing (insert your hook into the next stitch, wrap the yarn over and pull through stitch) two more times. You will have a total of 4 loops
- [Tips for Stuffing Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/tips-for-stuffing-your-amigurumis-head-body.html) - I've crocheted all of my cow pieces, and attached his features... the only thing left to do is stuff his head & body and attach them! Stuffing the head and body can be a little tricky, since they're large pieces. You want to be sure to add plenty of stuffing (to compensate for compression over
- [How to Single Crochet Decrease - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/how-to-single-crochet-decrease-video-tutorial.html) - When you need to make a shape smaller, you'll use single crochet decrease. You'll see this abbreviated in patterns as dec, or sc2tog - which stands for single crochet two stitches together. And that's exactly what it is! You're going from two stitches down to one. Here's how. See how easy that is? If your
- [How to Single Crochet Increase - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/how-to-single-crochet-increase-video-tutorial.html) - Any time you need to make your amigurumi bigger, you'll use single crochet increase. It's super easy! You just stitch twice in one stitch. Here's how. Sometimes you'll see this written in instructions as "inc" and you decide where to put the increases, but our patterns usually spell it out. If we want you to
- [Where do you insert your hook for '2nd ch from hook'?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/where-do-you-insert-your-hook-for-2nd-ch-from-hook.html) - When you crochet amigurumi, most instructions begin, "Ch 2. Sc 6 in 2nd ch from hook". Where is the 2nd chain? Getting this instruction right is particularly important if you're using the sloppy slip knot technique for starting, since crocheting your 6 stitches in the wrong chain will prevent your hole from closing. I like
- [How to Crochet the Second Round of Amigurumi - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/how-to-crochet-the-second-round-of-amigurumi-video-tutorial.html) - There are a kajillion tutorials out there showing you how to start amigurumi. (My favorite is the sloppy slip knot.) And there are several showing how to single crochet. But that's where many of them seem to stop. And a lot of people have questions about what comes next. How do you crochet the second
- [How and Why to Crochet through the Back Loop](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/how-and-why-to-crochet-through-back-loop.html) - I've heard it all before. Crocheting makes your wrists hurt. It's too hard to put your hook into the next stitch. Attaching pieces is a nightmare. What if I told you that one little trick could totally change all that? And crocheting would become relaxing and easy on your wrists again? I'll tell you the
- [New, Super-Easy Magic Ring!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/easy-magic-ring-amigurumi-crochet-adjustable.html) - Update! If you want the easiest method for starting your amigurumi (easier than any version of the Magic Ring) try a sloppy slip knot. I started using it a few years ago and I'll never go back to a Magic Ring. Has the magic ring method for beginning to crochet in the round gotten you
- [American/British Conversion chart: cut out & save!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/11/american-british-conversion-crochet-hook-size-stitch-names.html) - Do you need a handy dandy refernce for converting between American and British crochet terms and hook sizes? I've got you covered. As I am about to enter my 3rd year of spending 1/15th of my year in the Land Down Under, I am becoming increasingly aware of the differences between the US and Australia.
- [How to Start Amigurumi the Easy Way! The Sloppy Slip Knot.](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/06/the-sloppy-slip-knot-how-to-work-in-the-round-with-no-hole.html) - Today I'm going to show you my favorite way to begin crocheting amigurumi: using the sloppy slip knot. I find it easier to do than the magic ring, and it closes up nicely so that you don't have a hole at the start of your work. I've included a photo tutorial and a video tutorial.
- [Video: Learn the Wiggle Stitch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/wiggle-stitch-crochet-tutorial.html) - One of my favorite patterns in Modern Baby Crochet is the Colorful Wiggle Pillow... and my publishers must agree, because they decided to put it on the cover! It's a fabulous pillow, and a lot of fun to make! I've been getting a couple of requests for a video about how to do the wiggle
- [A Crocheter's Guide to Pattern Reading- free download](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/crochet-help-tutorial-pattern-reading-free-pdf.html) - Do you know how to crochet, but feel like patterns are a foreign language? You're not alone! Many of us crocheters learn how to do the stitches from a family member or friend, and don't learn to read the patterns until much later. And it's true, reading a pattern can be scary... but well worth
- [How to crochet Picot Bumps - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/10/how-to-crochet-picot-bumps-video-tutorial.html) - The newest crochet amigurumi pattern is Merrick Monster. I wanted him to have spiky little bumps all over his back and head so I used a modification of a picot stitch to crochet picot bumps. Picot stitch is usually used as an edge treatment, but in this video I show how you can use it
- [How to Crochet a Picot Stitch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/how-to-crochet-a-picot-stitch.html) - The picot stitch is a great stitch to use as an edging, but it can seem a bit confusing your first time! The stitch requires chaining away from the piece of work you're crocheting... but don't fret! I'll show you how to do it! How to crochet the picot stitch There are lots of picot
- [Looking for a great textured stitch? Bobble stitch tutorial!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/looking-for-a-great-textured-stitch-bobble-stitch-tutorial.html) - I adore the bobble stitch: it's such a great texture! I developed this stitch because I wanted a puff... but the traditional 'popcorn stitch' (used in a lot of sweaters, hats, and afghans) leaves a hole in your work that isn't suited for amigurumi. The bobble stitch (bbl st) creates a puff... but by using
- [Master the loop stitch, and bring a fun texture to your crochet!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/loop-stitch-crochet-tutorial.html) - I love the loop stitch. It's a fabulous textured stitch that you can use to add loops to any crochet work. It's a stitch I've used to make a squirrel tail and fluffy ears on a Maltese. Unfortunately, I think a lot of people are scared by the loop stitch, thinking it's too complicated or tricky.
- [How to Slip Stitch - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/slip-stitch-video-tutorial.html) - Slip stitch is a really easy - and very handy - stitch to have in your toolbox. It's one way to close up the very final tiny hole in the top of an amigurumi. I also use it any time I want to shift from the "step" of a single crochet stitch, to a more
- [Front Post Double Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/front-post-double-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - Front Post Double Crochet is a nifty technique that you can use to create raised ribs on the front of your fabric. And it's easy! Alyssa Voznak shows how to do it in this video. See? Isn't that pretty? You can use front post double crochet on hats and scarves - but it can also
- [How to Double Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/how-to-double-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - You may be wondering why you need to learn double crochet. After all, amigurumi are mostly single crochet. That gives the tightest fabric with the smallest holes for the stuffing to peek through. But sometimes we need some slightly taller stitches (like on the convex side of a bendy piece) so we use half double
- [How to Half Double Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/how-to-half-double-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - Half Double Crochet is a great crochet stitch. It's easy to do, a little taller than single crochet. It's great for hats and afghans - but we don't use it very often for amigurumi. Ami are mostly single crochet. So why am I posting it here? Well, next month's Ami Club pattern uses a tiny
- [How to Single Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/how-to-single-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - Single crochet is the only stitch you need for almost all amigurumi - and it's super easy to do! Here's how to do it. See how easy that is? Just wrapping and pulling. :-) Now that you know how to single crochet, you can make almost every amigurumi pattern in my shop.
- [Eep! There's a knot in my yarn! Help is here...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/fix-knot-in-yarn-crocheting.html) - Yippee! Another Tip Tuesday, where I share (what I hope is) a super-helpful crocheting tip. Today, I'm going to talk you through what to do when you arrive at an oh-so-pesky knot in your yarn. Knots in yarn are a part of life. Even in commercial yarns, knots occur when the manufacturer needs to join
- [How to Chain in Crochet - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/chain-crochet-video-tutorial.html) - Chain stitches are the foundation for most crochet work - and they're really easy to do. Watch this video - Stacey will show you how to do it. It's kind of crazy that all crochet is just one long, continuous piece of yarn wrapped and looped around itself. :-) If you're just getting started with
- [Dye yarn with Wilton Icing Dye!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/dye-yarn-with-wilton-icing-dye.html) - Did you know that you can dye your yarn using Wilton Icing Dyes? You already know I'm a huge fan of dyeing with Kool Aid... but the colors can be a little limiting. So I had to try my hand with the Icing Dyes! Advantages of Icing Dye Icing dye, as the name suggests, is
- [Making yarn from fabric strips](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/08/making-yarn-from-fabric-strips.html) - I recently knitted a bath mat using yarn that I had made from fabric strips. Unfortunately, I didn't photograph the entire process (because I didn't know I'd like the end product so much!), so this post is more of a guideline than an actual tutorial... but I hope you'll get the idea about how to
- [Using a Nostepinne](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/05/using-a-nostepinne-center-pull-how-wind-yarn-hand.html) - In this blog post, I'm going to show you how I used a sunscreen bottle to wind a beautiful center-pull ball of yarn! When you purchase yarn that comes in a hank, you'll need to wind it before using. You can usually wind your yarn at your local friendly yarn store when you purchase it...
- [How to use a ball winder](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/how-to-use-a-ball-winder-yarn.html) - This post contains affiliate links. That means I make a little commission if you buy something after clicking through. All affiliate links are marked with an *. Today, I've put together a little video to show you how to use a ball winder. What is a ball winder? A ball winder* is a handy device
- [How to make a Magic Ball!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/how-to-make-a-magic-ball-russian-join.html) - Have you heard of a Magic Ball? It’s a ball of yarn that changes colors and textures as you work. It’s something offered by a number of artisan yarn makers… but it’s also something you can make yourself with your leftover yarn! Besides ending up with an awesomely fun end-product… you’ll finally get to use
- [How to Calculate Yarn Length from Weight](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/length-of-yarn-by-weight-how-to-calculate.html) - We've all been there. We've got a big pile of yarn (inherited from a family member, the result of frogging a project, or maybe even a thrift store find)... and we have no idea how much yardage there is! Since most patterns specify the number of yards you'll need, determining the yardage of your yarn
- [How much yarn do I need?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/how-much-yarn-do-i-need.html) - It's a question every crocheter asks... how much yarn do I need? And what if I change the thickness of yarn? Today, I'll show you how to calculate how much yarn your project will need. No more guessing! Discover your yarn + hook combo The only way to know for sure is to calculate how
- [How to Crochet with Eyelash Yarn - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/how-to-crochet-with-eyelash-yarn-video-tutorial.html) - I've used eyelash yarn on exactly one project before. The process was so awful that I didn't pick up my crochet hooks again for a year. Yes - I hated it that much. The finished result was adorable - but I couldn't see my stitches while I was working. I couldn't even find my loop
- [3 Ways to Join Yarn without Tying a Knot](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/3-ways-to-join-yarn-without-tying-a-knot.html) - Today, I'm going to show you my 3 favorite ways to join a new yarn without tying a knot. These techniques can be used: When you've run out of yarn, and want to join a new ball of the same color To change to a new color according to the pattern (although the color change
- [How to Use a Stitch Marker in Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/how-to-use-a-stitch-marker-in-crochet.html) - Besides your hook and yarn, a crochet stitch marker is your best buddy and most useful tool! You want to look for a locking stitch marker, which is a lot like a fancy safety pin. Locking stitch markers come in a few varieties, but the most important thing is that they open and close! Don't
- [How to join yarns, while crocheting, with no knot!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/how-to-join-yarns-while-crocheting-with-no-knot.html) - In a previous post I showed you how to use the Russian join to make a Magic Ball with your yarn scraps. But maybe you don't want to join your scraps in advance! What if you want to start crocheting right away, and join your yarns as you go? No problem! Today, I'll show you
- [Ultimate Crochet Hook Review: which hook is right for you?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/ultimate-crochet-hook-review-which-hook-is-right-for-you.html) - There's no such thing as the perfect crochet hook. There may be a perfect hook for you, but not all hooks work for all people. Yesterday, you learned all about the differences between different styles of hooks. Today, you're going to learn how to pick a hook that's right for you. Finding the right hook
- [Crochet Hook Size Conversion Chart](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/01/crochet-hook-size-conversion-chart.html) - Crochet hook sizes can be a bit confusing, especially if you are either new to crochet or live outside the U.S. and are trying to find the right size to follow an American pattern. I'll explain the American crochet hook size system, and provide a conversion chart so that you can crochet with ease, no
- [Crochet Tools - Everything You Need](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/02/crochet-tools-everything-need.html) - You only need a few things to crochet amigurumi - a hook (to crochet), some stitch markers (to mark your place), and a tapestry needle (to weave in the ends and attach arms and legs). Besides yarn - that's really it! It's a lovely craft - and easy to carry your projects everywhere. This set
- [Basic Quilt Block Cutting and Quilting Instructions](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/07/basic-quilt-block-cutting-and-quilting-instructions.html) - I like to quilt my blocks before I add applique. It makes the process so easy and fun! Just zoom back and forth on the sewing machine and you're done. :-) Some people prefer to applique first and then quilt around it - that's fine too! The quilting lines CAN show through the applique pieces
- [Let's Make a Quilt!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Let's learn how to make a quilt! Any time you make a quilt - even if you're working from a pattern - there are a bunch of decisions you have to make along the way. Options you need to choose. Maybe skills you need to learn. I've organized here all the quilting tutorials on Shiny
- [How many strands of embroidery thread should I use?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/how-many-strands-of-embroidery-thread.html) - I've gotten several emails lately from people asking how many strands of embroidery thread they should be using - and how to separate the strands. How Many Strands of Embroidery Thread to Use First let's tackle the question of how many strands to use. It all depends on your project! Think of it like choosing
- [Knots - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/knots-learn-to-embroider.html) - Knots. Yes - I have more than one lesson about knots! They're a hot topic in the embroidery world. :-)
- [Finishing Your Work, Plus Other Ways to Use Embroidery - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/finishing-your-work-plus-other-ways-to-use-embroidery-learn-to-embroider.html) - Once you're done stitching, there are a number of different ways to finish your work. I've also included here some extra lessons about other ways to use embroidery.
- [How to Mend a Tear Around a Pocket](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/how-to-mend-a-tear-around-a-pocket.html) - I love to mend my clothing with visible stitching. The Problem These jeans have torn right at the stitching where the pocket is attached. Dang! That's a tricky place to patch. But I WILL patch these jeans. Partly because I'm stingy frugal. Mostly because I loathe buying new jeans. The only thing worse is shopping
- [How to Mend with Patches](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-mend-with-patches.html) - Use all your favorite embroidery stitches to make mending patches prettier AND stronger. First watch the video for the how and why - and then scroll down for some detailed examples of finished patches from a pair of my jeans. And now for the samples. These are all from one pair of jeans. :-) This one is super easy. I used
- [How to Frame Embroidery - a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/how-to-frame-embroidery-a-video-tutorial.html) - How do you frame embroidery? I get this question a lot. Actually - I get a lot of questions about what do do with an embroidered piece. They're super fun to stitch, but then what do you do with them? This video shows how to frame embroidery in a hoop - without using any glue.
- [How to Hide the Messy Back of Your Hooped Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/how-to-hide-back-hooped-embroidery.html) - I've never worried too much about hiding the back of my embroidery when I frame it in a hoop. There's a part of me that kind of likes leaving all the "ugly" visible to anyone who's curious enough to flip it over and take a look. :-) But I understand wanting to cover up the
- [How to Frame Embroidery in a Hoop (Without Glue!) - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/video-how-to-frame-embroidery-in-a-hoop-without-glue.html) - I really like to frame my embroidered pieces in a hoop - you've seen it on several pattern covers. A couple of people have asked how I do this, so I put together a video showing you. My husband is out of town - which means my daughter was holding the video camera. Hope you
- [Video - How to Iron Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/video-iron-embroidery.html) - I've had a LOT of people asking me how to iron their finished embroidery. There's a little trick to doing it without smooshing your stitches - and that's what I show you in this video. Don't worry - it's easy and doesn't require anything special. :-) That bird you see in the video is a free
- [Other Stitches - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/other-stitches-learn-to-embroider.html) - Here we are at the random catch-all group of lessons - Other Stitches. :-) This is where you'll find all the other random embroidery stitches I use - everything that's not an outline stitch or a fill stitch. Two of these stitches have already been covered in the Four Beginner Stitches lesson - lazy daisy
- [Learn to Embroider! Embroidery 101 and 201](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/learn-to-embroider-embroidery-101-and-201.html) - Let’s learn to embroider! Embroidery is a fabulous craft - inexpensive, portable, and as easy or complicated as you want to make it. I’ve organized here all the embroidery tutorials on Shiny Happy World into groups that walk you through every step of the process - from choosing materials to transferring your pattern, lots of
- [The U Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/new-embroidery-video-the-u-stitch.html) - Let's call this one a U stitch. I've searched through all of my embroidery encyclopedias and can't find this stitch mentioned in any of them, so I have no idea what it's called. I always think of it as a U stitch, so that's what I'm calling it here. If any of you know the
- [How to Embroider a Fly Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/embroidery-how-to-fly-stitch-video.html) - Fly stitch is really similar to the lazy daisy - and just as easy. Use it to make little flies (really!) or join them together to make a nice vine. I used fly stitch (with glow in the dark thread!) to make the fireflies in this Firefly Tree embroidery pattern. Happy stitching!
- [How to Cross Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/embroidery-how-to-cross-stitch.html) - Cross stitch is really easy. It truly is just a little stitched X. But there are a couple of tricks that will make your stitching look good - especially if you're using cross stitches to fill an area - and that's what I show you in this video. Happy stitching!
- [How to Embroider Pistil Stitch (a French knot with a Stem) - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/how-to-embroider-pistil-stitch-video.html) - This is a handy little stitch with lots of different names. One of the names is Pistil Stitch - and it is perfect for stitching little pistils inside detailed flowers. It's also good for teeny little flowers and grasses - and also antennae on bugs and aliens. Such a versatile stitch! Sometimes it's called an
- [How to Embroider Eyes - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-embroider-eyes.html) - Want to learn how to embroider eyes the way I do it? I have a particular way I make eyes when I draw, and when I translated those drawings into embroideries I had a hard time choosing a stitch that gave me just the effect I wanted. A French knot was too round. A simple
- [Fill Stitches - How to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/fill-stitches-how-to-embroider.html) - Any time you want an area of solid stitching in embroidery, you use what's called a fill stitch. I usually recommend satin stitch for beginners, but that only works for smallish areas, and it has a very particular smooth texture that might not be the look you're after. There are thousands of available embroidery stitches
- [How to Fill with Colored Pencils and Crayons - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/embroidery-how-to-fill-with-colored-pencils-and-crayons.html) - With hand embroidery, sometimes you'll want to fill an area with color but you don't want the texture of a stitched area - or you don't want to take the time. One possibility in those situations is to fill the area with colored pencils or crayons. In this video I show you how to stabilize
- [Video - How to Do Turkey Work Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/video-turkey-work-embroidery.html) - Turkey work is an unusual embroidery stitch that gives you a special effect. If you make long loops you can get a hairy or fringy look. Shorter loops can be trimmed to look like the pile of a rug or shorter hair. Neat! Turkey work stitching isn't difficult, but it does require a bit of
- [How to Use Split Stitch as a Fill Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/how-to-use-split-stitch-as-a-fill-stitch.html) - Normally split stitch is an outline stitch, but in this video I show you how to use it as a nice fill stitch. It's a great way to fill an area with lovely texture instead of the smooth surface you'd get by using satin stitch. It's also a very useful stitch to use as padding
- [How to Long and Short Stitch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/embroidery-how-to-long-and-short-stitch.html) - Hello all! It's time for another fill stitch! This one is related to satin stitch - so it will look familiar. You can use it to fill in large areas where satin stitch wouldn't work. You can use it to make the coat on furry critters like bunnies and dogs. But one of the best
- [How to Seed Stitch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/embroidery-how-to-seed-stitch.html) - Seed stitch is one of my favorite fill stitches. It's really easy to do and it makes a great texture - perfect for grassy fields and shaggy critters. But there’s a trick to getting all the texture – and that trick is in choosing the right colors – and choosing enough of them. Everyone who’s
- [How to Satin Stitch Points - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/embroidery-how-to-satin-stitch-points.html) - Let's satin stitch points! I like birds. I like to quilt them. I like to crochet them. And I like to embroider them. You could satin stitch a bird's beak with a regular satin stitch, but I make a little tweak to the basic stitch that I think adds a nice dimension to birds' beaks. It's
- [Outline Stitches - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/outline-stitches-learn-to-embroider.html) - Any line in an embroidery pattern can be stitched with any outline stitch. I usually recommend backstitch for beginners, but beyond that you can choose anything you like. There are thousands of available embroidery stitches - these are just the ones I use in my own work, and that I recommend in my patterns.
- [How to Couch with Satin Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/embroidery-how-to-couch-with-satin-stitch.html) - I've already showed you what couching is and how to do it. And in this video I show how to couch using a sewing machine. Now we're going to take it one step further and use a satin stitch for couching - completely covering the cord with your embroidery thread. Happy stitching!
- [How to Couch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/embroidery-how-to-couch.html) - Couching is the process of using embroidery stitches to stitch a cord (or yarn or decorative thread) to the surface of your fabric. It's a fun way to add some nice dimension to your work and it can give you a really unique effect. Give it a try! If you want to couch using your
- [Backstitched Chain Stitch - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/backstitched-chain-stitch-video-tutorial.html) - Oooh! Two colors! You know I occasionally love to throw in a fancy-looking stitch combination that uses two thread colors. See whipped backstitch and running stitch here, and threaded backstitch and running stitch here. Those both have a twisty, barber pole kind of look - one color spirals around or weaves through the other. This
- [How to Stitch a Whipped Backstitch or Running Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/embroidery-how-to-stitch-a-whipped-backstitch-or-whipped-running-stitch.html) - Whipped backstitch is one of my very favorite stitches. It looks fancy, but it's soooooo easy! It's very similar to the Threaded Running Stitch and Backstitch - but it has more of a spiral effect. You can see some whipped backstitch in the flower with the red and pink striped outline that's cropped out of
- [How to Stitch a Threaded Backstitch or Running Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/embroidery-how-to-stitch-a-threaded-backstitch-or-threaded-running-stitch.html) - Here's an easy way to fancy-up a basic outline stitch. Try it with two colors of thread like I show in the video - it's a fun look! Take a look at this video showing how to sew a whipped running stitch or backstitch for a slightly different look.
- [How to Chainstitch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/embroidery-how-to-chainstitch.html) - This is the last of the outline stitches we'll be doing for a little while - and it's definitely the fanciest so far. Chain stitch is one of my favorite hand embroidery outline stitches, but it's not the first one I teach. I generally start with running stitch because that's the easiest stitch there is.
- [How to Stem Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/video-how-to-stem-stitch.html) - A few weeks ago I released a pattern called It's a Dirty Job - all about how much I hate doing the dishes. I used stem stitch for that little bit of script at the end - and I promised a how-to video soon. Well - here it is! How to stem stitch. This is
- [How to Split Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/embroidery-how-to-split-stitch.html) - The split stitch is a lovely outline stitch. It's raised a bit from the surface of the fabric, and it has a lovely, almost-braided look to it. It also forms a more continuous line - unlike the backstitch where you can see the individual stitches. Here's how to split stitch. See how easy it is?
- [How to Embroider a Running Stitch - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/tutorial-how-to-embroider-running-stitch.html) - There are a lot of outline stitches you can use for different effects when you're embroidering by hand - the running stitch is the easiest. It's a great stitch to start with - the first one I teach to beginning stitchers. So watch the video and get stitching! Remember - the "correct" way to do
- [The Four Most Basic Embroidery Stitches - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/the-four-most-basic-embroidery-stitches-learn-to-embroider.html) - Regardless of what the instructions say, you can embroider almost any design using just four super simple stitches. You need something for lines, something for dots, something for drop shapes, and something to fill in solid areas.
- [How to Satin Stitch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/how-to-satin-stitch.html) - Satin stitch is one of my favorite fill stitches for small areas. It has a smooth (yes, satiny) surface and it's a very effective way to make small areas pop. I like it when the satin stitched area is slightly raised above the surface of the fabric, and I'll show you how to achieve that
- [How to Stitch a French Knot - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/embroidery-how-to-stitch-a-french-knot.html) - Oooh la la! French knots - so very fancy - and so very frustrating. When you don't know the trick to them, that is. For years I had a love/hate relationship with them. I loved the effect - there's nothing quite like it for teeny polkadots and nubbly texture. But I hated their unpredictability. Sometimes
- [How to Stitch a Lazy Daisy - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/embroidery-how-to-stitch-a-lazy-daisy.html) - Today I'll show you how to stitch a lazy daisy - perfect for making teardrop shapes. Of course they make terrific daisies - like in this robot pattern. I also used a single lazy daisy stitch for the glowing red light at the tip of his antenna. :-) I also used lots of them in
- [How to Backstitch - embroidery video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/embroidery-how-to-backstitch.html) - If you want to do hand embroidery, you really need to know how to backstitch. The backstitch is probably THE most common outline stitch. It gives a nice, smooth, continuous line. If you're going to be stitching tight curves make sure to use a shortish stitch length. Otherwise, just use a stitch length you're comfortable with and
- [Working with Patterns - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/working-with-patterns-learn-to-embroider.html) - When it comes to working with embroidery patterns, there are only a few things you need to know - where to get patterns, and how to transfer them to whatever you're embroidering. If you're getting a little more advanced you might also want to know how to enlarge or reduce a pattern to make it
- [How to Start Your Embroidery Without Knots - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/video-how-to-start-your-embroidery-without-knots.html) - I always start my stitching with a knot (video here) and end it without one (video here). I do this because it's easy and I love easy. And I really don't care what the back of my work looks like - I actually kind of like seeing the knots and tails. But some of you
- [How to Fasten Off Thread on the Back of Your Embroidery - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/how-to-tie-off-thread-on-the-back-of-your-embroidery.html) - So - one of the very first videos I made showed how to tie a knot in your thread, for sewing or embroidery. A reader recently asked me how I knot off the thread on the back of my embroidery. Good question! Here's the answer. That's the back side of my Firefly Tree embroidery pattern
- [How To Tie a Sewing Knot - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-tie-a-knot.html) - I know it seems silly to record a video about how to tie a sewing knot - but this knot is so awesome it's worth teaching. When I'm sewing in public and strangers see me tie this knot - they stop and ask me how I did that. Yes - it's that cool. And it's
- [Tools and Supplies - Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/06/tools-and-supplies-learn-to-embroider.html) - Embroidery requires very few tools and supplies. Basically you need a needle, thread and fabric - and that's it! Of course, there are a few extra tools that can make things a little easier or more fun. :-)
- [How do I enlarge and reduce digital patterns?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/ask-wendi-enlarging-and-reducing-digital-patterns.html) - I get a lot of questions about enlarging and reducing the size of embroidery patterns. Here's one from Holly. . . I purchased your cat embroidery pattern and I totally dig it. Those kitties are great. It turns out my girl, who is 6 and very fond of felines, is pretty handy with a needle
- [Use a Teeny-Tiny Embroidery Pattern to Stitch a Great Big T-shirt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/use-a-teeny-tiny-embroidery-pattern-to-stitch-a-great-big-t-shirt.html) - You know how I'm always saying you can play with the size of your embroidery patterns? Well - here's a prime example. As soon as she saw the finished dogs my daughter squealed, "Ooooooh! That one is soooooo cute! Will you please stitch it on a T-shirt for me?" Before I could even answer her
- [How To Transfer Embroidery Patterns - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-transfer-embroidery-patterns.html) - In this video I show you three different ways to transfer embroidery patterns - including super tricky fabrics like black velvet. I mention a couple of products in this video. One is Sulky Solvy. The other is an iron-on transfer pen or pencil. Both are from Sulky and both work really well. But. . .
- [Why the Right Stabilizer is Like a Good Bra :-)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/why-the-right-stabilizer-is-like-a-good-bra.html) - When it comes to embroidery, the thread is like the gorgeous silk blouse hanging in your closet. It's pretty. It's colorful. It's touchable. It's lovely. But try wearing that silk blouse without the right undergarment and - unless you're a very lucky woman - the results will be. . . not so lovely. :-) Stabilizers
- [How to Embroider with Glow in the Dark Thread - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/how-to-embroider-with-glow-in-the-dark-thread.html) - There are some tricks to working with Glow In The Dark embroidery thread. I show you how to make it "shine" in this video tutorial! The embroidery pattern in the video is my Firefly Tree Embroidery pattern. The thread I'm using in the video was from the awesome Jenny Hart at Sublime Stitching, but she doesn't make
- [Embroidery Tools](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/embroidery-tools.html) - One of the great things about embroidery is that you don't need many tools at all to get started.. Needles, thread, and some fabric and you're good to go. Here's a bit more info on each tool. NeedlesSewing needles are called sharps. Quilting needles are called betweens. Tricky, no? But embroidery needles are easy. They're
- [How I Store and Organize My Embroidery Thread](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/store-organize-embroidery-thread.html) - I get a lot of questions about how to store embroidery thread in an organized way. I recently decluttered my craft room so now I have multiple posts about storing and organizing craft supplies! See my new super-tidy studio here. See how I store my sewing tools here. Today it's all about storing embroidery thread.
- [Embroidery Thread Review - 12 wt. Sulky Cotton Petites](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/embroidery-thread-review-12-wt-sulky-cotton-petites.html) - Remember when I said I found lots of great things at Quilt Market? This is one of them. You know I love Sulky products! I use Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy on almost every single embroidery project. So, of course, I had to pop by the Sulky booth to see what was new. :-) These were new.
- [How to Embroider on Paper - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/video-how-to-embroider-on-paper.html) - I love making embroidered cards on paper! In this post I showed you a few cards I made for my daughter using my embroidery patterns to make collage images. In the card above I glued paper on for the cloud, but I stitched the raindrops with embroidery thread on the paper card. In this video I
- [Felt Embroidery - All My Tips and Tricks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/felt-embroidery-tips-tricks.html) - I've gotten a few questions lately about felt embroidery - and I'm going to answer them all here today. Most of your patterns use smallish shapes. Do I transfer the pattern, hoop them and stitch, and then cut them out? Well - I buy the good stuff (there's no point embroidering it if it's going
- [How to Hand Embroider on T-shirts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-hand-embroider-t-shirts.html) - Can you stitch on stretchy knit fabrics? I get this question a lot - and the answer is a resounding YES! Here's how to hand embroider on t-shirts. You can't just pop any stretchy fabric into a hoop and start stitching away. Well - you can - but the results will be terrible. The fabric
- [How to Add a Catchlight to Applique Eyes - Three Ways](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/05/how-to-add-a-catchlight-to-applique-eyes-three-ways.html) - What's that little light you see in eyes? It's called a catchlight, or a catch light, or a spark of life, or a bunch of other poetic names. Whatever you call it - adding a little speck of light really brings applique eyes to life. It's one of the reason I love using black safety
- [Choose Your Fabric - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/choose-your-fabric-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Now that you've chosen your pattern and the size and layout you want to make, it's time to choose your fabric! For some people this is their favorite part, and for some people it's the most stressful. Move on the the lessons about getting and preparing your supplies.
- [How to Make a Quilt with an Alternate Grid](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/04/how-to-make-a-quilt-with-an-alternate-grid.html) - One of the easiest ways to make your quilt more dynamic is to use an alternate grid instead of a simple checkerboard. And one of the easiest ways to make an alternate grid is to add half blocks! It can be tricky to plan and assemble these quilts, but there are really only a few
- [How to Add a Baby to Any Block - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/08/how-to-add-a-baby-to-any-block-video-tutorial.html) - Want to add a baby to any block in my quilt patterns? It's easy! You just need to print the baby at a reduced size! There's a post here with more info. (scroll down to the section called "Print at 100% Size - No Scaling") In a nutshell - tell your printer you DON'T want
- [The Big Bag - a free large tote bag pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/05/the-big-bag-a-free-large-tote-bag-pattern.html) - Here's a free pattern for my favorite large tote bag. I LOVE this roomy bag! This one hangs in my studio to hold packages ready to ship, but I also have a few that I take grocery shopping and to the farmer's market. I'm a big fan of reusable bags for grocery shopping, but a
- [Turn Any Quilt Block Patterns into Cute Coasters - an easy tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/05/turn-any-quilt-block-patterns-into-cute-coasters-an-easy-tutorial.html) - I love getting all the mileage I can out of my quilt patterns - using them for lots of other projects besides quilts. One of my favorite things to make is felt coasters. I've got them scattered all over my house, in lots of different designs. The cats you see above are some of my
- [Mini Tote - Free Sewing Pattern PDF](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/mini-tote-free-sewing-pattern-pdf.html) - Here's a free tote bag pattern! This mini tote bag measures 6 inches wide x 7 inches tall x 2 inches deep. It's the perfect size for packing your lunch, carrying a few books, or toting some toys. And it's easy to make! You can decorate your bag any way you like. For that adorable
- [Free Christmas Stocking Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/11/free-christmas-stocking-pattern.html) - Use this simple stocking pattern with whatever embellishment you choose. Or none at all! The lined construction is easy enough for beginners, and it works with any quilt, appliqué or embroidery pattern. Throughout most of the instructions I'm using this free Santa appliqué pattern, but you can use any decoration you like. Here's the exact same
- [Baby Bib Pattern - Adorable and Free](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/baby-bib-pattern-adorable-and-free.html) - Babies always need bibs. That means the people who love babies need a go to, easy baby bib pattern. This is it! It's a simple bib shape - very easy to make and customize with any appliqué (or other fancification) you like. This pattern includes that sweet bear. :-) Make it out of regular quilting
- [Fast & Easy Free Placemat Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/11/fast-easy-free-placemat-pattern.html) - Use this free placemat pattern and get a little bonus use out of your favorite blocks from your quilt patterns! I love seeing people make things besides quilts with their Shiny Happy World quilt patterns. Don't get me wrong. I love seeing your finished quilts! But if you make quilts - it's a great way
- [Free Receiving Blanket Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/free-receiving-blanket-pattern.html) - Make an easy baby gift with this free receiving blanket pattern. A receiving blanket is seriously the easiest baby gift you can make. Choose fabulous fabric and no embellishment and you can make one in 15 minutes. Even if you add an applique (like the fox shown) you can still make it in less than
- [How to Turn a Quilt Block into a Pillow](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/how-to-turn-a-quilt-block-into-a-pillow.html) - So. Let's say you really like one of my quilt patterns, but you've never made a quilt before and you're kind of freaked out about making the whole thing. Start with one block. You can make one single block, right? Of course you can! And you can turn that fun quilt block into a pillow.
- [Make a Wall Hanging! Add a Wonky Churn Dash Frame to Your Favorite Quilt Block](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/05/make-a-wall-hanging-add-a-wonky-churn-dash-frame-to-your-favorite-quilt-block.html) - If you're like most quilters - you have a LOT of patterns. :-) It's always great to come up with another use for one of your favorites - especially if you can make an accessory to go WITH one of your best quilts. You can turn a single block into a wall hanging and hang
- [Binding and Finishing Your Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/binding-and-finishing-your-quilt.html) - Time for the last steps! Happy stitching!
- [Quilting with Decorative Stitches](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/quilting-with-decorative-stitches.html) - The Fish Quilt pattern is finished! I did the final quilting with decorative stitches that come standard on my sewing machine. More on that in a minute. All week I've been sharing peeks behind the scenes at some of the design decisions I made for my sample quilt. In this post I showed how I
- [Using Shiny Happy World Applique Patterns to Make Things That Aren’t Quilts - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/using-shiny-happy-world-applique-patterns-to-make-things-that-arent-quilts-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - I love making quilts - and I also love making other non-quilt things with my applique patterns. Extra bonus points for using a single quilt pattern in multiple ways! Happy stitching!
- [How to Make a Quilt Hanging Sleeve](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/make-quilt-hanging-sleeve.html) - I get a lot of questions about how to make a quilt hanging sleeve, so here (finally!) is a tutorial. :-) 1. Cut a strip of fabric 4 inches wide and as long as the width of your quilt. You're going to hem the edges and that will bring the sides of your hanging sleeve
- [How to Declutter a Craft Room](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/declutter-craft-room.html) - I recently posted some photos of my newly tidy studio and a bunch of people asked for more details. A BUNCH of people. They all wanted to know how to declutter a craft room - exactly what I did. I'm happy to share! Especially because this time I feel like I finally got it right. :-)
- [How to Make a DIY Cutting Table](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/make-diy-cutting-table.html) - I love my new cutting table! I cut a lot of fabric for bundles, so I really needed a large table at the right height for working while standing. Standing for hours at a dining table height surface will kill your back! I used to have some good storage shelves that worked, but the bottoms
- [Basic Tools - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/basic-tools-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - I'm going to make a distinction here between tools and supplies. Tools are the things that you'll use over and over again for all of your quilts - like a sewing machine, iron, and rotary cutters. Supplies are the things that get used up with each quilt, like thread, fusible adhesive, and fabric. I'll cover
- [Hand Quilting - Stitch to the Very Edge of Your Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/hand-quilting-stitch-to-the-very-edge-of-your-quilt.html) - When you're hand quilting in a hoop, how do you quilt all the way to the edge? This is a question I've gotten several times in the last few weeks since I posted this video about hand quilting and this one about big stitch quilting. It's a good question, and the answer goes all the
- [Hand Quilting without Marking - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/hand-quilting-without-marking-video-tutorial.html) - In this video I show how to do more intricate hand quilting without marking. I get really nervous about marking on my quilts. Temporary markers (like water-soluble pens) disappear quickly in the humidity here. Chalk marks disappear quickly in the time a quilt gets moved around on my sofa while I quilt it. And the idea of
- [Tips for Quilting a Cuddle Fleece Back - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/tips-for-quilting-a-cuddle-fleece-back-video-tutorial.html) - I love using cuddle fleece for my quilt backs. When I made the first cat quilt for my daughter Jo, she asked for cuddle fleece on the back. Until then I had only used it for stuffed animals, but she thought it would make an exceptionally cuddly quilt. She was right. After sleeping under it
- [Video - How to Machine Quilt a Big Quilt on a Standard Sewing Machine](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/machine-quilt-big-quilt-standard-sewing-machine.html) - I know. You look at that mass of quilt and you look at the space under the arm of your sewing machine and you think, "No way!" You'd be wrong. You can totally quilt a big quilt on a regular sewing machine. I've actually quilted king size quilts on my machine - though in this
- [My Favorite Tip for Machine Quilting without Swearing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/favorite-tip-machine-quilting-without-swearing.html) - Nothing - and I mean nothing - is more likely to make me curse like a sailor than when my bobbin runs out of thread in the middle of a long row of stitching while machine quilting. You sew and sew and sew, shifting the heavy weight of the quilt over and over again -
- [Video - How to Sew or Quilt Perfectly Parallel Lines](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/sew-quilt-perfectly-parallel-lines.html) - In this video I show you how to install and use the quilt guide - a mysterious-looking tool that comes with most sewing machines. It's really easy to use and lets you sew or quilt perfectly parallel lines. You can do quilting that looks like this. . . Or you can topstitch on plain fabric
- [How to Machine Quilt - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-machine-quilt.html) - This week we're continuing work on my little doll quilt. Last week I showed you how to layer and baste the quilt, this week I show you how to quilt it on the machine. I forgot to mention it, but I always use a walking foot when I quilt. I don't think about it because
- [Basting and Final Quilting - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/basting-and-final-quilting-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Once you have your quilt top all sewn together, it's time to finish your quilt. At this point it's just like finishing a traditionally-constructed quilt.
- [How to Baste a Quilt - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/quilting-how-to-baste-a-quilt-video-tutorial.html) - Once you've pieced your quilt top, you need to know how to baste that quilt. That's the step that turns your quilt top into a quilt, and it's what I show you in this video. Technically, basting a quilt is just temporarily pinning or stitching or glueing the layers together to help them in place
- [Video - Quilt As You Go #3 - Finishing Your Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/video-quilt-3-finishing-quilt.html) - I HAD to use the post-washing version of this quilt for the video image. Look at all the crinkle! I would never have done quilting that dense without using the Quilt As You Go method. There would have been too much swearing and back pain. :-P But with Quilt As You Go, look what I
- [How to Trim Quilt Blocks - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/how-to-trim-quilt-blocks-video-tutorial.html) - I usually follow these steps to make any of my Quilt As You Go applique quilts. . . cut quilt blocks (and batting) 11 inches square quilt the blocks applique the blocks outline stitch the applique trim quilt blocks 10 1/2 inches square sew the quilt blocks together press seams open baste to backing quilt bind
- [Trim and Assemble Your Blocks - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/trim-and-assemble-your-blocks-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Once you have all your blocks quilted, appliqued, and outlined - it's time to trim them to size and sew them together into a quilt top!
- [Playing with Thread Weight](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/playing-thread-weight.html) - I've been working on some cat applique blocks for a kitty quilt that matches these puppies. I've been posting some of the blocks as I finish them - and I've been getting some questions about them. All of the blocks so far use fusible adhesive. It's so quick and easy and I LOVE using the
- [Choose Your Quilt  Size and Layout - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/choose-your-quilt-size-and-layout-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Once you have a pattern, the next thing you need to do is decide on a size and layout. Most of my quilt patterns include instructions for just three sizes, and just a basic layout - but you have so many options! In the posts below you'll find detailed fabric requirements and instructions for quilt
- [Scribbly Outlining Your Applique Pieces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/05/scribbly-outlining-your-applique-pieces.html) - There are SO MANY different ways to outline applique pieces - and scribbly outlining is one of my favorites! A lot of people applique with satin stitch or decorative stitching like blanket stitch. I demonstrate how to use decorative stitches in one of the lessons in my Fusible Applique Made Easy Class on Craftsy. Here's
- [Stitching Eyes and Mouths - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/01/stitching-eyes-mouths-video-tutorial.html) - I get two questions a lot when people are ready to start outlining on my face applique patterns. How do you stitch around small parts like eyes and noses? How do you stitch the mouth? I made a video to show exactly how I do both of those steps! That's it! Remember. . . Shorten your
- [How to Outline Applique Pieces - Where to Start Stitching](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/how-to-outline-applique-pieces.html) - People get stumped when it's time to outline applique designs - and the more complicated the block, the more likely I am to get questions about how to approach that outline stitching. Where to start? There's no right or wrong way - as long as you outline each piece, you're good. But I do like
- [How to Topstitch and Edgestitch - Video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/how-to-topstitch-and-edgestitch-video.html) - In this video I showed you how to topstitch beside a zipper and I got an email asking me the difference between topstitching and edgestitching. Not much! You'll run into both terms in different patterns so I thought it would be good to talk about the "official" difference between them. In a nutshell - any stitching done
- [Applique Your Blocks - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/applique-your-blocks-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - This is my favorite part! I love seeing all the cute animals and faces come to life!
- [Outline Stitch - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/outline-stitch-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - After you fuse all your pieces in place, you need to stitch around each piece. The fusible adhesive isn't designed to hold without stitching.
- [How to Do Needle Turn Applique - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/how-to-do-needle-turn-applique.html) - So, this is the "old-fashioned" way to applique. It's definitely a lot more work than appliqueing with fusible adhesive, but you don't get that annoying stiffness, and you don't have any visible stitching. This is the technique used for all those traditional Baltimore Album quilts. It's also the technique I used for my very first
- [How to Machine Applique with Freezer Paper - All the Lessons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/machine-applique-lessons.html) - Want to learn how to machine applique with freezer paper? This is the post for you. You can see all my applique videos here, including needle turn applique, how to applique with fusible adhesive, and how to applique with (and on) fake fur. My preferred method is Quilt As You Go and fusible adhesive, but
- [Fussy Cutting and Broderie Perse - Fancy Applique Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/09/fussy-cutting-broderie-perse-fancy-applique-tutorial.html) - There are two kinds of applique that rely on the print of the fabric you're using - fussy cutting and broderie perse. A lot of you have probably done fussy cutting without even realizing it has a name. It's when you carefully position your applique template to incorporate images printed on the fabric. I did it on
- [How to Add Fake Trapunto Applique Pieces to Your Quilts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/08/add-fake-trapunto-applique-pieces-quilts.html) - See the tree in that quilt block? It's puffy and fat - like traditional trapunto applique. You can read more about traditional trapunto here. It's. . . a lot of work. Seriously. A lot. So I didn't use the (crazy labor-intensive) traditional trapunto technique. I used a fun and easy fake trapunto applique technique I
- [How to Add a Door (that opens!) to a Quilt Block](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/how-to-add-a-door-to-a-quilt-block.html) - That house doesn't look very special - right? Look closer! Peekaboo! The door opens! Here's how to do it. I'm using an example of one block from the Shiny Happy Houses quilt pattern, but you could adapt this idea in all kind of ways! I list a few possibilities at the end of the tutorial.
- [Make a Quilt Block with Soft 3D Parts - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/make-quilt-block-soft-3d-parts-video-tutorial.html) - It's so much fun to make a 3D quilt! You can add soft 3D embellishments to any applique pattern - like the bunny ears you see above. There's a post here showing how to add small 3D pieces to an applique quilt - teeth and small bear ears. And I teach several 3D options in
- [Making Playful Bits for 3D Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/12/making-playful-bits-3d-applique.html) - What's 3D applique? Well, usually when you applique, you sew the fabric bits in place around all the edges. But sometimes it's fun to make them flappy. :-) It's a way to add a playful element to your applique! If you look closely at the spikes on that monster above, you'll see that they're only
- [How to Applique Dark Eyes on Dark Faces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/04/how-to-applique-dark-eyes-on-dark-faces.html) - A lot of people have questions about how to applique dark eyes on a dark face. It's really important for the eyes to show up well, and dark on dark fabric tends to hide them! This cutie is Ivy - one of the bears in my Bunches of Bears quilt pattern. I made all the
- [How to Stop Seeing through Fabric Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/06/how-to-stop-seeing-through-fabric-applique.html) - I get a lot of questions about how to stop seeing through fabric applique - especially on my frog and monster patterns that have big googly eyes. When you use fusible adhesive and layer a light color (like white) over a boldly patterned fabric, the print below can show through. In this video I show
- [How to Machine Stitch Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/how-to-machine-stitch-eyes.html) - Did you know you can use a standard sewing machine to machine stitch eyes on your applique blocks? You can! The eyes are often the most difficult part of any of my appliqué patterns. It can be tricky stitching around those small pieces! (Tips - shorten your stitch length, go sloooooooooow, raise your presser foot
- [Using Fabric Markers and Paints for Small Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/using-fabric-markers-paints-small-eyes.html) - For years I've been recommending fabric markers and paints as an option for people who don't want to applique small eyes, but I've never recommended a particular brand. Until now. On a recent trip to Joann's I grabbed one of every black fabric marker and paint they carried. Then I brought them home and tested
- [How to Applique Eyes - Easy Options](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/easy-eye-options-applique.html) - Ugh! How on earth do you applique eyes? They're so small! The eyes are definitely the trickiest part of any of my applique patterns, but I have several posts that show you easy ways to deal with them! Applique I usually applique eyes using solid black fabric. I like the look of it, and (after
- [How to Applique with Fusible Adhesive - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/applique-fusible-adhesive-video.html) - I've been doing a lot more applique with fusible adhesive lately (now that I've discovered some products I really like) and I've been getting requests for some more tutorials for it. Ask and you shall receive. I've already got a basic applique with fusible adhesive video here, but it only shows fusing down one piece
- [How to Do Fusible Applique - all the details](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/how-to-fusible-applique.html) - Fusible applique is so fast and easy and fun! I've already got a video showing the basics of using fusible adhesive. In a nutshell. . . Trace the mirror image of the shape you want onto the paper side of the adhesive. Fuse to the back of the fabric. Cut out the piece. Peel off
- [How Durable is Applique with Fusible Adhesive?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/how-durable-is-applique-with-fusible-adhesive.html) - How durable is applique with fusible adhesive? I get that question a LOT. People really want to know if it's really ok to just straight stitch around the edges of the pieces in applique with fusible adhesive. People worry that they have to zigzag to make everything durable. The best way to answer that is with
- [How to Applique with Fusible Adhesive - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/how-to-applique-with-fusible-adhesive.html) - Using a fusible adhesive is the easiest way to applique. You're essentially gluing the fabrics together, and then you have the option to stitch around the edge of the applique to add extra strength. I usually straight stitch around the edge, or do a running stitch by hand with embroidery thread, but in the video
- [Cut and Quilt Your Blocks - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/cut-and-quilt-your-blocks-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - I like to quilt my blocks before I add applique. It makes the process so easy and fun! Just zoom back and forth on the sewing machine and you're done. :-) Some people prefer to applique first and then quilt around it - that's fine too! The quilting lines CAN show through the applique pieces
- [A Gallery of Quilt As You Go Designs](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/03/a-gallery-of-quilt-as-you-go-designs.html) - When I make a quilt using my Quilt As You Go method, I like to do all the quilting before I add the applique. Easy peasy - and the possible quilt designs are endless! My quilting becomes doodling on a blank square of fabric and it's so much fun! But! What if I don't like
- [Quilt As You Go - Wavy Lines and Grids](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/quilt-as-you-go-wavy-lines-and-grids.html) - In these Quilt As You Go videos I showed the lines I was stitching on paper. I did this so you could get a bird's-eye overview of the whole block, and also so you could see how to quilt around the applique, in case you choose to do things in that order. (I like to do my
- [Quilt As you Go - Stripes and Grids](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/quilt-as-you-go-stripes-and-grids.html) - In these Quilt As You Go videos I showed the lines I was stitching on paper. I did this so you could get a bird's-eye overview of the whole block instead of seeing it at an angle as it is in the machine. (You can see the video on straight line stripes here.) But I've
- [Quilt Block Sizes for Alternate Grid Layouts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/10/quilt-block-sizes-for-alternate-grid-layouts.html) - I use standard quilt block sizes for almost all of my quilts - a simple 10-inch square grid. That makes it super easy to mix and match blocks between my patterns. Want to combine the Playful Puppies with the Cuddly Cats patterns? No problem. Want to add the Benjamin Badger block to the Woodland Critters
- [How to Make Easy Landscape Blocks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/make-easy-landscape-blocks.html) - Most of my quilts don't use landscape blocks. I usually zoom right in on the animals' faces. :-) I like to make it look like they're looking (and smiling) at YOU. I frame them in the block so they look like little portraits. But that wasn't going to work for the dinosaur quilt pattern. For
- [To Prewash or Not to Prewash](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/to-prewash-or-not-to-prewash.html) - This is a weirdly divisive question in the quilt world. It's also one of the most common questions I get. Do you prewash your fabric? Yes. Mostly. How's that for a definitive answer? Let me clarify. . . I prewash all quilting cottons. Always. They go straight into the laundry hamper when I buy them
- [Rotary Cutting - How to Square Up Your Fabric and Cut Strips](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/rotary-cutting-how-to-square-up-your-fabric-and-cut-strips.html) - Welcome to the world of rotary cutting! It's pretty awesome. In this video I show you how to square up your fabric and how to use basic rotary cutting tools to cut strips - on the straight grain and on the bias. You use straight grain strips to attach to straight edges - like the
- [Why Spoonflower Fabric?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/02/why-spoonflower-fabric.html) - Have you seen my new fabric collections on Spoonflower? For several years now I'm been putting together color-coordinated fabric bundles and selling them in my shop. Now I'm transitioning to selling my own fabric designs through Spoonflower. I've had a lot of people ask why I'm making that switch - which is a great question.
- [My Favorite Quilt Batting](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/my-favorite-quilt-batting.html) - What's the one quilting supply I can't live without? Quilt batting. Good quality batting. You don't want to mess around here. You probably just spent a couple hundred dollars on fabric and a good bit of your time making a beautiful quilt top. You're about to put it all together and finish the quilt. You
- [Get and Prepare Your Supplies - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/get-and-prepare-your-supplies-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Once you've chosen your pattern, the size you want to make, the layout you want to use, and the fabric you love - it's time to go shopping! Lots of the posts about choosing fabric also mention where you can get it. In addition to fabric, there are some other things you'll need, like thread,
- [How to Applique ONTO Fake Fur - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-how-to-applique-onto-fake-fur.html) - I love to use a bit of fake fur in my quilts and stuffed animals, but I get a lot of questions about how to make the eyes and other features work. How do you applique ONTO fake fur? See the eye on the crazy blue bird monster, above? Or the giant eyeball on this
- [How to Applique Faux Fur - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-how-to-applique-faux-fur.html) - Applique with faux fur is the BEST! Lots of people use fur to make stuffed animals - but did you know you can use it in quilts too? Yes - you can! Make shaggy dogs, fluffy cats, and furry monsters. Or if you don't want to make the whole critter furry, maybe just a few
- [How to Applique with Fleece](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/how-to-applique-with-fleece.html) - It's lots of fun to use cuddly soft fleece for your applique - and it's easy! But you can't use fusible adhesive for it. The heat needed to melt the adhesive will also melt your fleece. Not good! The solution is glue stick! You've seen me use glue stick before to hold pieces in place
- [Satin Applique - Fusing Melty Fabrics](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/satin-applique-fusing-melty-fabrics.html) - Satin applique is just perfect for getting shiny smooooth things like this blue dragon. Usually when I use satin in a quilt I use it for soft 3D pieces - like the lining on these fun, floppy ears in my Mix & Match Monsters quilt. But you can do satin applique too - even if
- [How to Applique with Shiny Metallic Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/applique-shiny-metallic-fabric.html) - Whoa! That monster is silver! Shiny, metallic silver! When I want a bright, metallic look to my applique, I always grab some tissue lamé. This surprises a lot of people, because tissue lamé is a notoriously fragile fabric and kind of a pain to work with. But I have tricks! One of the main problems
- [How to Fill-a-Yard on Spoonflower](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/01/how-to-fill-a-yard-on-spoonflower.html) - Now you can shop on Spoonflower and get fabric designed by me, especially for use with Shiny Happy World patterns! Woo hoo! There are so many ways to shop! I list each collection in the Fabric section of my shop, with lots of detailed info about the collection and links to shop by color, by
- [Applique with Prints - Choosing Fabric for a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/applique-prints-choosing-fabric-for-quilt.html) - Choosing fabric for a quilt can be tricky - especially when you're doing applique! When I showed the lovely fabrics I was planning to use for this free receiving blanket pattern, a couple of people said they were eager to see how I used the prints, since I usually stick to solids and near-solids. The
- [Make Your Fabric Print Work FOR You in Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/make-your-fabric-print-work-for-you-in-applique.html) - Some of the most common questions I get are about choosing fabric for a quilt. People often want to know how to choose colors that go together, but I also get questions about how to choose the right print. Usually I make things really easy on myself by choosing a tone-on-tone print or blender. These
- [Choose Your Pattern - Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2023/05/choose-your-pattern-lets-make-a-quilt.html) - Before you do anything, you'll need to choose a pattern. :-) You can, of course, use the techniques and instructions I'll be giving you with any pattern, but there's a post below with a quick rundown of several of my patterns, arranged by difficulty. It has info that will help you to see what exactly
- [How to Quilt a Quilt with a Broken Grid Layout - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/07/how-to-quilt-a-quilt-with-a-broken-grid-layout-video-tutorial.html) - Some of my quilts have what I call a "broken grid" layout. You'll also see it called an "alternate grid." Both of these terms refer to quilt layouts that aren't the standard checkerboard-style grid, with all the seams running in straight, uninterrupted lines from edge to edge. I've got a video here that shows how
- [How to Make Your Applique Bust Out of Its Frame - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/06/how-to-make-your-applique-bust-out-of-its-frame-video-tutorial.html) - Last week I showed you how to frame your applique with an easy wonky faux sashing technique. Today I'm going to show you how to make your applique bust out of its frame! It's so much fun. :-) Here's the video showing how. See how easy that is? The hardest part is remembering that those
- [How to Make Wonky Faux Sashing for QAYG Blocks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/06/how-to-make-wonky-faux-sashing-for-qayg-blocks.html) - I get a lot of requests about adding sashing to Quilt As You Go quilts. I've got a tutorial here showing how to add traditional sashing to a QAYG quilt, like this. But my favorite method is actually to add fake WONKY sashing to my blocks. That makes blocks that dance around in your quilt,
- [How to Add Sashing to a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/how-to-add-sashing-to-a-quilt.html) - (This post is about adding sashing to a regular quilt. Click here for specific instructions about adding sashing to a Quilt As You Go quilt.) I don't usually add sashing or borders to my quilts, but Controlled Chaos isn't a typical quilt for me. I went back and forth for a long time, debating the
- [Creating an Applique Pattern from a Drawing or Clip Art](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/creating-an-applique-pattern-from-a-drawing-or-clip-art.html) - I've received a few questions lately about whether it's possible to create an applique pattern from a drawing or clip art. Yes! You can create an applique pattern from just about any drawing - but you may have to do a bit of tweaking to the drawing. Let's take a look at this appliqué I did of
- [How to Print Digital Patterns When You Have No Printer](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/how-to-print-digital-patterns-when-you-have-no-printer.html) - Every once in a while I get an email from someone who wants to buy one of my patterns, but has no printer. I only sell digital patterns, but that doesn't mean you need to own a printer to use them! There are actually a lot of options! I'm going to go through two sets
- [How to Build a Quilt Design Wall (Flannel Board, Bulletin Board, etc.)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/how-to-build-a-quilt-design-wall-flannel-board-bulletin-board-etc.html) - I finally have a quilt design wall in my new house and I'm so excited! There really is nothing like being able to step back and see an entire quilt like this! And I'm going to show you (in excruciating detail) how I built mine - including the specific materials I used. I'll also show
- [Don't Make Your Sewing Machine Go Naked! (free pattern)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/dont-make-your-sewing-machine-go-naked-free-pattern.html) - I've always wanted to make a sewing machine cover, but somehow never got around to it. Until now. As soon as I saw the Ed Emberley fabric collection from Cloud 9 I knew I wanted to use it to make a few things for my sewing room. . . a sewing machine cover some new
- [How to Make a Needle Cushion](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/tutorial-make-a-needle-cushion.html) - Give any old pincushion a good squeeze and you know what you'll find buried in the middle? A bunch of needles. Seriously. Tons of them! Unlike pins, there are no heads to keep them from disappearing into the middle of the cushion - never to be seen again. I've tried leaving a bit of thread
- [Free Pattern: Dimples Pincushion](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/free-pattern-dimples-pincushion.html) - This is my favorite pincushion style. The button dimples on the top and bottom make it sit nice and flat. The two colors for the top and bottom are fun. And the rickrack around the seam? Rickrack always makes me smile. :-) I'm love the Ed Emberley Happy Drawing collection from Cloud 9 Fabrics
- [Free Tutorial - Easy Pattern Weights](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/free-tutorial-easy-pattern-weights.html) - These pattern weights are sooooooooo easy to make. Seriously. Each one takes less than five minutes. Dig into your fabric scraps and make a big batch of them for a sewing friend. This fabric (to match the rest of my sewing room) is designed by Ed Emberley for Cloud 9 Fabrics. I've tried a lot
- [How I Care for My Fabric Scissors](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/great-scissor-rotation-2014.html) - Everyone knows not to use your good fabric scissors on paper, right? RIGHT? Today I thought I'd go beyond that very basic info with some extra detail on how I manage all my scissors - including my fabric scissors. This is going to answer a few questions that I get all the time. Do you
- [How to Clean a Cutting Mat](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/clean-cutting-mat.html) - I love Quilt As You Go and use it for almost all of my quilts - but cutting the batting squares and then trimming the finished blocks to size makes a real mess of your cutting mat. All those cotton fibers get embedded in the mat and no amount of rubbing with a rag will
- [Rotary Cutting Tools](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/rotary-cutting-tools.html) - Nothing cuts strips of fabric better than rotary cutting. It's so much easier on your hands, wrists and shoulders than using scissors! Plus, you get more accurate cuts. In this post I'm going to take you through the basic tools, tell you what you'll use them for and give you some recommendations on purchasing. All
- [My Awesomely Huge Ironing Board - An Ikea Hack How To](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/awesomely-huge-ironing-board-ikea-hack.html) - There are three things I LOVE about my awesome new ironing board. One is obviously the fabric for the cover. This is The Land that Never Was designed by Lisa Congdon for Cloud9 Fabrics. I love the whole collection! Two is the size. I can iron an entire piece of fabric - selvedge to selvedge
- [How to Replace the Cover on Your Ironing Board - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/start-the-new-year-with-a-new-cover-on-your-ironing-board.html) - There's no reason to settle for the bland fabric that comes on most ironing boards - making a new cover is super easy! I loved my old ironing board cover, but it had gotten badly waterstained and really faded in the sun. Plus - I made all kinds of new sewing room accessories using the
- [How to Use and Maintain Your Steam Iron](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-use-and-maintain-your-steam-iron.html) - The most dangerous tool in the sewing room isn't the machine with the fast-moving super-sharp needle. It's the steam iron. Really! It's so easy to burn yourself either by touching the iron directly, or by the steam that comes shooting out the sides. :-( Do you know how to take care of your iron? Did
- [Basic Sewing Machine Maintenance](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/basic-sewing-machine-maintenance.html) - So, you've got yourself a sewing machine. Now you have to learn how to take care of it. Don't worry! Sewing machine maintenance is pretty easy - just regular cleaning and the occasional drop of oil. You'll have to change the needle pretty often too. I show you how to do it all in this
- [Sewing Machine Feet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/01/sewing-machine-feet.html) - I get a lot of questions about sewing machine feet. Mostly people want to know one of two things. What kind of specialty feet should they buy for their machine? And do they really need to have a walking foot? Well - it all depends on what you want to sew! There are so many
- [How to Choose a Sewing Machine for Beginners - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-choose-a-sewing-machine-for-a-beginning-sewer.html) - If you're trying to choose a sewing machine for beginners you do NOT need anything fancy. Please - do not buy a $1000 (or more!) machine unless you know you're going to use it all the time. At the other end of the spectrum - if you're choosing a machine for a child, do not buy
- [My Sewing Machine and Why I Love It](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/sewing-machine-love.html) - I get a LOT of people asking me to recommend a sewing machine and I never really feel like I can answer that. Before I recommended a fusible adhesive - I tested a bunch of different brands. Before I recommended fabric paints or markers for eyes, I tested a bunch of different brands. I just
- [How to Sew Stretch Fabrics on a Regular Machine - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/how-to-sew-stretch-fabrics-on-a-regular-machine-part-1.html) - Did you know that you can get an especially squishy softie by sewing it up out of an old T-shirt or other stretch fabric? Did you know that you don't need a serger to sew stretch fabrics? In this video I give you some basic information about sewing stretch fabrics on a regular sewing machine.
- [Everything You Need to Know About How to Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/everything-you-need-to-know-about-how-to-applique.html) - This one post will give you all the links you need to get to all of my different posts (and there are a lot of them) about how to applique. I love applique! First, there are three major applique techniques. Needle Turn Applique This is beautiful and soft and lovely - but it's a hand
- [Free Santa Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/free-santa-applique-pattern.html) - Use this free Santa applique pattern to make all kinds of things! Here are just a few ideas (with links to free patterns) . . . a pillow a tote bag a gift bag a T-shirt a mug rug or coaster a wall hanging a stocking placemats The pieces are designed to make an applique
- [Video - How to Needle Sculpt Softie Toes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/video-needle-sculpt-softie-toes.html) - Needle sculpting! That's how I made the cute kissable toes on that softie? Do you think that's probably really hard to do? Not at all! Take a look at the video and see how easy it is. :-) See? You will need one specialized tool for needle sculpting - a long doll needle. You can
- [Crochet Mike the Monster from Monsters University!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/monsters-university.html) - I love monsters. And I love crocheting monsters. So, when I found out that Disney was looking for bloggers to write tutorials for crafts based on Monsters University, I nearly fell out of my chair. My love for monsters must have poured through the computer screen... because here I am, sharing my super-awesome crochet
- [Free Applique Alphabet Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/05/free-applique-alphabet-pattern.html) - Here's a free applique alphabet pattern! You can use these to add words to any pattern. This post shows several different layout possibilities you can use with any Shiny Happy World pattern - including several that add words. Add a name, a birth date, a gift date, animal sounds - even a poem or quote!
- [How Durable Is Spoonflower Fabric with Raw Edge Applique?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/02/how-durable-is-spoonflower-fabric-with-raw-edge-applique.html) - I get a lot of questions about how durable it is to do raw edge applique with fusible adhesive - especially the way I only outline it with straight stitching instead of a wide satin stitch. I've got a post about that here where I showed one of my daughter's quilts after almost two years
- [People Colors - Skin Tone Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2022/04/people-colors-skin-tone-fabric.html) - I'm no longer selling cut fabric in my shop. I go into lots of detail about the reasons why in this post, but the nutshell version is that cutting the fabric has gotten too painful for me. For the most part I'm replacing my fabric bundles with new bundles from Spoonflower - designed by me
- [Free Pattern from a Failed Tooth Fairy - Tooth Fairy Pillow](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/free-pattern-tooth-fairy-pillow-2.html) - I'd like to have a few words with whoever invented the Tooth Fairy. Seriously. Let's start a tradition where a child places a teeny, tiny tooth under their pillow and parents have to retrieve it in the middle of the night without waking the child. This is madness. The night after Jo lost her first tooth
- [Tips and Tricks for Working with Cuddle Fleece](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/tips-tricks-working-cuddle-fleece.html) - I loooove using Cuddle Fleece for making softies! I discovered it at Quilt Market last year and fell in love - and then couldn't find it in any shops. It was even hard to find online! So I ordered a few bolts to carry in my shop and I've been using it for softies and
- [How To Use Snaps - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/video-how-to-use-snaps.html) - Back when I first started sewing, I did everything possible to avoid buttons. Or zippers. One of the notions I turned to was snaps. My first experience was bad - I tried using those sew-on snaps, thinking they'd be the easiest option. But I hated sewing them on and I found it really hard to
- [Warren the Charity Bear - a free teddy bear pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/warren-charity-bear-free-teddy-bear-pattern.html) - Done! If you like this free pattern, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a weekly newsletter full of sewing tips and tricks, free patterns, special discounts, and other things to make you smile. :-) Happy sewing! Best,Wendi
- [Let's Make a Quilt! - a Free Workshop to Learn Quilt As You Go and Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/02/lets-make-a-quilt-a-free-workshop-to-learn-quilt-as-you-go-and-applique.html) - Wendi
- [Free Christmas Pattern - Rudolph the Red-Nosed Ornament](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/free-christmas-pattern-rudolph-red-nosed-ornament.html) - Deby at So Sew Easy has designed a cute felt tree especially for toddlers (nothing breakable!) and asked me and a bunch of other bloggers to design some fun felt ornaments for the felt tree. You know I love working with felt and designing things for kids - so that was an easy yes! :-)
- [How to Make Fancy Schmancy Cloth Napkins](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-make-fancy-schmancy-cloth-napkins.html) - Make some fancy schmancy cloth napkins! It's the perfect project is to practice straight-line sewing on the machine! You get to practice sewing around the edge with a nice, straight, 1/4 inch seam allowance, and then you get to go around the edge again with a topstitch. Easy peasy! So here's a free pattern for
- [Intraux to Faux Fur Fabric - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-intraux-to-faux-fur.html) - Using faux fur (or fake fur) can add a really special - and professional - look to your handmade stuffed animals and quilt. Furry dogs! Furry cats! Furry monsters! They're all wonderful! But fake fur is not an everyday fabric, and a lot of people feel like it must require a lot of special knowledge or
- [Free Tissue Pack Cover Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/free-tissue-pack-cover-pattern.html) - 'Tis the season for sniffles. Which means it's the perfect time to pull out this cute little monster tissue pack cover pattern and whip up some cute gifts! It's super easy and the pattern is free. Oh - and if a little case of the sniffles turns into a full-blown cold with a cough and achy
- [Free Thanksgiving Embroidery Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/free-thanksgiving-embroidery-pattern.html)
- [Free Snowman Embroidery Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/free-snowman-embroidery-pattern.html) - If you want to skip the hoop you can stitch him on a tea towel, a gift bag, a stocking, a T-shirt or baby onesie. Have fun with it! It's super easy - just a few of the most basic stitches! The pattern has links to videos teaching you all of them. Want the pattern? Here’s
- [Four Free Embroidery Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/free-embroidery-patterns.html) - It's been a little while since I released an embroidery pattern - and now you know why! I've been working on this set of four free patterns - commissioned by Sulky, the maker of the thread I used. I posted a review of the Sulky thread here. Now they're ready to see the world -
- [Free Quilt Pattern - Thick & Thin](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/free-quilt-pattern-thick-thin-2.html) - I designed this quilt with two things in mind. One - I wanted it to be easy and fun. Of course. That's a main consideration in all my quilt designs. :-) Two - I wanted it to work especially well with those awesome fabric collections with great illustration that you just don't want to cut
- [Free Elf Ornament Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/free-elf-ornament-pattern.html) - It's a free pattern! Here she's a Christmas elf. But she doesn't have to be! I made a couple of "everyday" pixies that you can see here, along with their holiday friend. Want the pattern? Here’s the link to download it. It's free! Download the free Elf Ornament pattern here. Have a great weekend, everyone!
- [Free Sewing Pattern - Zippered Bag](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/free-sewing-pattern-zippered-bag.html) - Let's learn to make an easy zippered bag! I cut up a lot of old clothes to reuse the fabric. I can't stand to throw anything away, and I end up turning a lot of the zippers into handy-dandy zippered bags like this one. Make them in grown-up fabrics to hold make-up, money, membership cards,
- [Make a Vicks VapoRub Rice Bag and a Free Monster Rice Bag Cover](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/make-a-vicks-vaporub-rice-bag-and-a-free-monster-rice-bag-cover.html) - Everyone knows that a little Vicks Vapo-Rub smoothed onto a kid's chest can help ease a cough and clear up a stuffy nose. But some kids (and some adults too) don't like the sticky stuff smeared on their skin. And some grown-ups are concerned about using a petroleum jelly-based rub. I recently had a major
- [How to Sew a Dart - video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/how-to-sew-dart-video-tutorial.html) - Most people learn how to sew a dart because they're sewing clothing. Darts are one of several ways to shape the clothes to the body. But sometimes I use darts in my softie designs. Just like clothing, they can give a softie a nice rounded shape. You can get rounded shapes with curved seams too
- [Free knitted mini sock pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/12/free-knitted-mini-sock-pattern.html) - Little knitted sweater and stocking ornaments/keychains are popping up all over the place... and I thought I needed to have one, too! A couple days ago, I knitted a miniature sock, and thought I'd share the pattern with all of you! Click here to download the pattern. Miniature socks are a great project to do:
- [How to Make a Cotton Mask - pattern and video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/04/how-to-make-a-cotton-mask-pattern-and-video-tutorial.html) - And here are the written instructions. For each mask you'll need two 6x9 inch rectangles and two 1 3/4 inch strips. I read several studies that said NOT to add any additional layers to this kind of loosely-fitted mask. Yes - additional layers will increase the filtration, but they make it harder to breathe THROUGH
- [10 Tips for Sewing with Kids](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/10-tips-for-sewing-with-kids.html) - Last week I sewed owls with 20 kids in the Harry Potter Camp I taught, and it reminded me to write up a post with some tips on sewing with kids. I've taught a LOT of kids sewing classes, and I've learned a lot over the years. So here are my top 10 tips for
- [Free Pattern! Big Stitch Felt Coasters](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/free-pattern-big-stitch-felt-coasters.html) - Practice your running stitch with these big stitch felt coasters. This project is all about those big stitches! It's simple, fun and easy. It's all hand-sewn - perfect for stitching while you binge-watch your favorite show. :-) My friends at Sulky were watching my progress on this big-stitched lap-sized quilt. . . (It's a WIP from
- [Make Your Own Laminated Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/make-your-own-laminated-fabric.html) - Sort of. True laminated fabric has a very thin layer of polyurethane film permanently stuck to the right side of the fabric. The resulting fabric is waterproof, but still has a nice drape to it. There's a great post here about the difference between oilcloth, laminated fabric, and chalkcloth. It's terrific when you can find
- [How to Make Double Fold Binding](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-make-double-fold-binding.html) - Double fold binding tape is so useful! I use it to make straps, to bind the edges of pockets, pot holders and placemats, to make drawstrings, and more. One quick note - you'll also hear me use the term bias tape or double fold bias tape. Technically, I should only call it bias tape when
- [How to Miter Corners with Double-Fold Bias Tape - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/video-how-to-miter-corners-with-double-fold-bias-tape.html) - Ever since I did this video showing how to make bias tape I've been getting questions about how to miter corners neatly when you use it. How do you get that neat corner? Do you wrap the whole thing and pin it and then start to sew? Do you sew one side at a time?
- [Free Cat Embroidery Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/free-cat-embroidery-pattern.html) - Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop - totally free?Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work.If you already know the basics -
- [Easy Doll Clothes Patterns - Shirt, Shorts and Skirt - Free!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/easy-doll-clothes-patterns-shirt-shorts-skirt-free.html) - It's Spot the Puppy wearing these and he likes to have room for his tail to wag. :-) So there you have it - three basic doll clothes patterns - all super easy and free. The shirt, skirt and shorts will fit any of the Dress Up Bunch dolls. Happy sewing! Best,Wendi
- [Make a Totoro Stuffed Animal](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/05/make-a-totoro-stuffed-animal.html) - Jo wanted to make a Totoro stuffed animal for a friend from school - and she had a pretty brilliant idea of how to do it without drafting a whole new pattern. Start with Franklin the Fat Cat! It's one of her favorites and she's made it a few times, so she knew it was
- [How to Sew Napped Fabric (Velvet, Corduroy, etc.)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/how-to-sew-napped-fabric-velvet-corduroy-etc.html) - Sewing with napped fabric can be a real pain. It creeps like crazy! I'm not kidding! The first time I worked with velvet I sewed a pair of pants for my young daughter. I treated it like normal fabric and by the time I got to the end of my first side seam, I still
- [How to Blanket Stitch with NO KNOTS - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/video-how-to-blanket-stitch-with-no-knots.html) - Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop - totally free?Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work.If you already know the basics -
- [New Cross Stitch Embroidery Panels - Especially for Beginners](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/new-cross-stitch-embroidery-panels-for-beginners.html) - There's a new kind of embroidery design here at Shiny Happy World. Stamped Cross Stitch Panels for beginners - especially young beginners. :-) You can find both the cat and dog here. I tell you all about what makes them special in the description, so here I'm going to show you some quick and easy
- [How to Sew a Button Joint - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/sew-button-joint-video.html) - Using a button joint allow your softies to sit, stand, wave, and be posed in other fun positions. Here are a few examples. Here's Rhonda Rhino, carrying a pretty balloon to a birthday party. You can just barely see one of the buttons on her shoulder. Benedict Bear's buttons are almost completely covered by his
- [Free Goldfinch Wallpaper for Computers, Tablets and Phones](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/06/free-goldfinch-wallpaper-for-computers-tablets-and-phones.html) - Happy June! Here's your new monthly wallpaper for computers and phones and other devices! I'm still really excited about the new Backyard Birds quilt pattern, so I thought I'd share the drawing that started it all. In 2020 I finished the 100 Day Project for the first time. I broke the project up into ten
- [The Perfect Match - just the right color thread for your felt embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/perfect-match-just-right-color-thread-felt-embroidery.html) - You all may have noticed that I love a little felt embroidery. :-) I love how portable it is. I love the way the thread looks on the wool felt. I love the way it feels in my hands. It's all so yummy! The only part of the whole process I don't enjoy is choosing
- [The 100 Day Project 2021 - 100 Birds](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/02/the-100-day-project-2021-100-birds.html) - For the last few years I've participated in the 100 Day Project. Last year was the first year I actually finished it. :-) The 100 Day project is awesome. Participants decide on any creative activity they want to pursue for 100 days. It can be ANYTHING! A few that I remember off the top of
- [Free - Sprinkles Doll Quilt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/free-sprinkles-doll-quilt-pattern.html) - Sprinkles is a doll quilt pattern I designed especially for the rag dolls in The Dress Up Bunch - but it's also just the right size for American Girl dolls and lots of random teddy bears and stuffed animals. Look at Bean - all ready for bed in his flannel jammies, cozily tucked in under
- [Papa and Baby - Emperor Penguin Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/05/papa-and-baby-emperor-penguin-applique-pattern.html) - I made the penguins with the Warm Neutral Batiks fabric bundle - plus a scrap of white-on-white print I had. The background block is from the Rainbow Sherbet fabric bundle. I can't wait to see all the penguins you make! (Penguins are antarctic, rather than arctic - but they'd be a fun addition to all
- [Peekaboo Mouse Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/peekaboo-mouse-pattern.html) - A lot of people have pulled the little mouse from the Noisy Farm quilt pattern to use in other quilts - but not everyone wants to buy a pattern with twelve different farm animals just for the little mouse! I've been getting a lot of requests lately for the mouse as his own little pattern.
- [Free Butterfly Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/free-butterfly-applique-pattern.html) - Want to learn how to make a quilt with an easy online workshop - totally free?Sign up for Let's Make a Quilt here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, and how to make a quilt from start to finish using Quilt As You Go and applique with fusible adhesive.It's the
- [Mama and Baby Kangaroo Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/04/mama-and-baby-kangaroo-applique-pattern.html) - In time for Mother's Day next month - a Mama and Baby Kangaroo applique pattern! Yep, the 15th of the month means it's pattern release day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! Folks have been asking for this kangaroo block ever since I drew it last year as part of my
- [Ladder Stitch - The Invisible Way to Stitch up Softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/how-to-ladder-stitch-the-invisible-way-to-stitch-up-softies.html) - There are two common ways to sew up stuffed animal openings - whipstitch and ladder stitch. Whipstitch is super easy - it's what I do with the youngest stitchers, as young as four. Here's a video showing how to whipstitch. The drawback is that the stitching is visible. Ladder stitch is preferable because it's totally
- [How to Give Your Softies Flat Feet and Flat Bottoms - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/how-to-give-your-softies-flat-feet-and-flat-bottoms.html) - I love making softies with flat feet and flat bottoms. This is Napoleon and Josephine. Like any self-respecting elephant, Josephine has nice flat feet at the bottom of her trunk-like legs. She also has a flat bottom that helps her sit nicely. Napoleon has a flat bottom too. See? Franklin the Fat Cat, the Eggheads
- [Free Giraffe Background Image for Phones and Other Devices](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/04/free-giraffe-background-image-for-phones-and-other-devices.html) - Happy April! Here's your new monthly background image for phones and other devices! We had a super warm March - and last night a cold front blew in. My bird bath was frozen this morning! I guess Mother Nature is sending us an April Fools joke. 😁 I chose a giraffe this month for no
- [How to Turn a Tube of Fabric Right Side Out - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/how-to-turn-a-tube-of-fabric-right-side-out.html) - If you need to turn a tube of fabric (especially a skinny one) right side out, it can be a real pain if you don't have the right tools. There are a few options out there. I used to wrestle with a safety pin and yarn, and I've tried using hemostats - but I swear
- [Toy Snakes - free beginner sewing pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/beanbag-toy-snakes-free-pattern.html) - These stuffed toy snakes are one of my most popular free patterns! They're lots of fun for all ages to make. Years ago I made a book weight - a simple tube of fabric filled with heavy metal pellets. It was designed to hold a book open, but my daughter immediately saw it as a
- [Applique and Embroidery - Together!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/applique-and-embroidery-together.html) - Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop - totally free?Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work.If you already know the basics -
- [Adorn Anew Blog Tour: How to dye a gradient yarn with kool-aid!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/adorn-anew-blog-tour-how-to-dye-a-gradient-yarn-with-kool-aid.html) - Today I'm going to show you how to dye gradient yarn in two fabulous colors - with Kool-aid! But first, a little background. . . I was excited when Laura Nelkin asked me to be on the blog tour for her serialized ebook, Adorn Anew. It's a beautiful collection of knitted & beaded jewelry and
- [Achieve Mindfulness in 7 Easy Crochet Steps](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/achieve-mindfulness-in-seven-easy-crochet-steps.html) - If you're a super-regular reader of this blog, you may know that I adore yoga. I love the physical difficulty paired with working on increasing my flexibility. But let me tell you. . . I'm not so good at the meditation & 'quieting the mind' part. I've read about all of the great meditation research
- [A Yarn Lover's tour of NYC (with pickle detour!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/new-york-manhattan-yarn-fiber-guide.html) - Like me, my friend, Ellen, is a yarn-lover. And an all-around crafty-chick. So, when it came time for Ellen to visit New York City for the very first time, I knew I needed to include the best yarn shops in Manhattan on our tour. I admit it: this isn't a guide that hits every yarn
- [A Yarn Lover's Guide to Washington, DC](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/a-yarn-lovers-guide-to-washington-dc.html) - Today's guide to yarn stores in DC is written by Jennifer Crowley, the designer/teacher/blogger at www.tinkingturtle.com. Jennifer Crowley is a knit and crochet designer who teaches up and down the east coast. You can check out her designs on Ravelry. Recent and upcoming publications include Sockupied, Knitpicks and Classic Elite Yarns. When not knitting or
- [A Yarn Lover's Guide to Sydney, Australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/a-yarn-lovers-guide-to-sydney-australia-wool-shop.html) - Looking for yarn shops in Sydney, Australia? Then this guide is for you! I've spent a fair bit of time in Sydney, and it's a beautiful and walkable city. I've picked four areas of town that are fabulous for walking around and sightseeing - and they also have some of the best yarn shops in
- [New Bunny Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/03/new-bunny-applique-pattern.html) - Woo hoo! A bunny applique pattern! Yep, the 15th of the month means it's pattern release day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! The new pattern this month is a bunny. But not just any bunny. See those four bunnies? They were all made with the same pattern pieces! The pattern
- [Using Cuddle Fleece for Dress Up Bunch Dolls](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/using-cuddle-fleece-for-dress-up-bunch-dolls.html) - I've received a couple of emails lately asking if you can use cuddle fleece to make Dress Up Bunch dolls. Yes you can! Update - the cuddle fleece I used to carry has been continued. You can find more info here (including a link to a good substitute). You can also use polar fleece. If
- [Video - How to Sew Boxed Corners](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/video-sew-boxed-corners.html) - Why do I need to know how to sew boxed corners? I don't even know what a boxed corner is! Well - it's a simple way of adding depth to a fabric shape. It's what makes this mini tote bag (there's a free pattern here) fat instead of flat. And it's what gives these little mice nice
- [How to Make an Easy Charity Quilt - a simple and fun tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/make-easy-charity-quilt-simple-fun-tutorial.html) - The easy charity quilt I made for Craft Hope is finished and on its way. I love how it turned out! Craft Hope is an organization that partners with different organizations to collect handmade items for donation. I know lots of crafters like making items to donate and there's always a demand for patterns for
- [Charity Quilt Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/charity-quilt-tutorial.html) - For a while now I've been thinking about designing a free scrap quilt pattern that's as fun, easy and versatile as the Warren the Charity Bear pattern. Just like Warren, I wanted something that was fast. I know some of you make and give away a LOT of these quilt every year. I wanted something
- [A Rice Bag to Keep You Toasty Warm](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/a-rice-bag-to-keep-you-toasty-warm.html) - Stitch up this easy rice bag and pop it in the microwave whenever you need a little warmth. Heat it for one minute (or a little more) in the microwave. Use it as a foot warmer when you go to bed at night. Or lay it on your chest when you have a cold. Drape
- [A Question About Scissors](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/a-question-about-scissors.html) - Michelle Erfurt wrote in with a question about her scissors. . . I'm having an issue with a pair of my scissors and I'm hoping you can help. They are becoming difficult to open/close and are even starting to squeak a little. Otherwise they are cutting fine. What do I do? It took me a
- [A Playdate with Made by Joel - and a Giveaway!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/12/a-playdate-with-made-by-joel-and-a-giveaway.html) - What do you get when you combine Joel's Free Holiday Gift Tag printable with my Free Goody Bag pattern? This! A cute, reusable Christmas gift bag! The Joel, of course, is Joel Henriques, the amazing dad who blogs at Made by Joel and author of Made to Play - a book showing you how to
- [A plan for organizing your yarn stash!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/plan-organize-yarn-stash-ideas.html) - Every knitter and crocheter has one... it's called a 'yarn stash'. And, if left unchecked, your stash can quickly turn into an unkept mess that just seems to keep on growing (on it's own, of course!). But don't worry! I'm here with a step-by-step-guide to organize yarn and get your stash under control. Finding yarn
- [A Peek Inside My (Tidy!) Studio](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/peek-inside-tidy-studio.html) - Look! It's a clean sewing room! Over the years I've thought a lot about showing the space I work in here on the blog. But - frankly - it's always been a bit of a mess. More than a bit, actually. If you follow along on Facebook you know I spent the last week doing
- [New Colors for the Noisy Farm](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/new-colors-for-the-noisy-farm.html) - I get a lot of emails from people asking for advice choosing quilt colors. I always point them to the Shiny Happy People group where they can see many, many different quilts made with my patterns - usually using different colors than what I used in my samples. Really - seeing a finished quilt is
- [A New Version of the Noisy Farm Quilt!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/08/a-new-version-of-the-noisy-farm-quilt.html) - I've gotten a lot of questions lately asking for suggestions for the background colors of the Noisy Farm quilt pattern. The cover sample you see above is from before I had fabric bundles in my shop, and most of the fabrics I used are no longer available. One of the things I love about the
- [A Dress Up Bunch Doll Raincoat Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/a-dress-up-bunch-doll-raincoat-pattern.html) - Get the Rainy Day doll raincoat pattern collection here. Happy stitching! Best,Wendi
- [5 ways to modify an amigurumi pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/5-ways-to-modify-an-amigurumi-pattern.html) - It's really fun to modify an amigurumi pattern! You can make the same pattern a hundred times and have a hundred different critters that all look different from each other. Of course, you can follow the pattern exactly. There's no shame in doing this! Use the recommended yarn, recommended hook size and follow the instructions
- [A (mini) guide to selecting fiber content in a yarn](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/fiber-content-yarn-properties.html) - Have you ever knit a beautiful alpaca scarf and said, "Gee, I like it... but I didn't know it'd be so warm!" Every yarn fiber has different properties that make it soft/warm/itchy. So, it's worth learning a bit about the fibers before starting a project! It's impossible to give you all the info you need
- [7 tips for planning travel knitting & crochet projects](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/7-tips-for-planning-travel-knitting-crochet-projects.html) - The holidays are a typical time for traveling. And of course, you don't want to set out without a project... but picking the right project for your travels can be tricky. In this blog post, I'll give you some tips for picking the right project for you, and I'll give you a peek at the
- [6 Tips for Being Your Best Crafty Self!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/tips-crafting-organizing-guide.html) - I'm multi-craftual. Yeah, that's right. You can't stick me in one little crafty box. I knit, crochet, sew and needle felt. I've dabbled in wheel-throwing (pottery), metal-working, quilting, spinning, locker hooking, embroidery, beading and tatting. And depending on your definition of 'craft', you should add baking, cheese making and gardening to the list. I'm irresistibly
- [5,4,3,2,1 Things About Me](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/54321-things-about-me.html) - Makezine has a really fun series of profiles using a 5,4,3,2,1 format and Wild Olive invited her readers to join in. And now Makezine has invited everyone to join in. So here goes. . . One Project You Are Particularly Proud Of 1: My very first quilt. I had almost no sewing experience at that point and
- [5 Tips for Selling Your Crochet Items](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/5-tips-for-selling-your-crochet-items.html) - It makes me so happy that many crocheters use my designs as a way of making an income for themselves... by selling the finished items! (Yup, it's allowed! Read here) I've asked Michaela, the woman behind Crochet City KC on Etsy to share some of tips for selling crocheted items. Hopefully, these tips will help
- [5 Tips for being a good student (and get the most out of class!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/5-tips-for-being-a-good-student-and-get-the-most-out-of-class.html) - I love teaching. And I truly believe that anyone can learn to knit or crochet. My own sweetie learned to crochet a duck in just one weekend: I've taught oodles of students, and I've discovered that the 'good students' typically demonstrate some of the same strategies... and you can do them too! Here are some
- [5 Surprising Reasons Your Handmade Biz isn't Making Money](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/handmade-business-tips-earning-money-troubleshooting.html) - I've talked before about pricing and selling handmade items, but the same principles apply to handmade businesses of all varieties. Because you may have missed it, I'll summarize some key points here. Here's the kicker: whether you make items for sale, sell instructions/patterns for handmade items or are a teacher of a crafting skill, there
- [5 Easy Photography Tips](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/5-easy-photography-tips.html) - If you're like me, you're a crafter... and NOT a photographer! But, you still want to take nice photos of your completed projects for your blog or to share on Ravelry. Help is here! In this blog post, Stacey and I share share 5 easy photography tips you can use to take lovely project photos,
- [Bow Tie Tutorial for Dolls and Softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/bow-tie-tutorial-dolls-softies.html) - You can easily make a whole bunch of bow ties in a range of colors and sizes to dress up all your toys and softies! Make some up in fun holiday prints to dress up for the different holidays! Have fun with it! And Happy Sewing! Best,Wendi
- [Free Bunny Applique Pattern with Fun Mix & Match Parts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/mix-match-free-bunny-applique-pattern.html) - I've been thinking about designing a bunny applique block for a couple of years now, but Easter always seems to come and go before I have a chance to do it. But not this year! And I didn't just design a bunny block - I designed a free bunny applique pattern with mix &
- [Is 'worsted weight' the same as 8 ply yarn?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/12/worsted-weight-same-8-ply-yarn-american-british-weights.html) - I get asked this question via email quite often, so I figured it was time to answer it in a blog post! The short answer is: no. But leaving it there would make a very boring blog post, wouldn't it? So, here's a bit more info about how yarn weights are labeled! What does 'weight'
- [Video Instructions for Easy Stamped Cross Stitch Kits](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/video-instructions-for-easy-stamped-cross-stitch-kits.html) - When a cross stitch pattern is printed directly on the fabric it's called stamped cross stitch - and it's a great way for beginners to get started with the craft. Want to see how easy it is? Watch here. . . See? You just stitch an X right over each X printed on the fabric.
- [Fletcher - a FREE Chevron Quilt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/fletcher-free-chevron-quilt-pattern-2.html) - Want to add a dramatic angle to your quilting? Try this easy chevron quilt pattern. It's free. :-) That's right - FREE! And that doesn't mean it's some skimpy abbreviated form of one of my regular patterns. You'll get everything one of my regular quilt patterns normally includes. Complete instructions - including yardage requirements, cutting
- [Color Theory 101: selecting yarns that go together](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/color-theory-101-selecting-yarns-that-go-together.html) - A lot of patterns going around at the moment feature stripes: two or three colors that go together perfectly. You could follow the colors suggested in the pattern sample, but you want to try something a little different. But how in the world do you pick a colors that go together? Color theory. That's how!
- [New to crocheting? Try an animal!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/new-to-crocheting-try-an-animal.html) - I honest-to-goodness think the easiest way to learn to crochet is to make an animal. But of course, I design crochet animal patterns, so maybe you don't want to take my word for it! I reached out to my readers and asked for folks whose first crochet project was a stuffed animal! Responses came pouring
- [Triangle Tote Bags - a free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/fun-project-in-fat-quarterly-issue-9-available-now.html) - These triangle totes are handy-dandy little things. Use them to hold make-up, coins, little toys, a handful of crayons and a small notebook - anything you can think of. Materials you'll need for all three pyramid bags: Two fat quarters of contrasting fabricThree zippers - 7 inch, 5 inch, and 3 inch (follow package instructions
- [How to make a hacky sack](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/how-to-make-a-hacky-sack-crochet-easy.html) - Crochet Hacky Sack Pattern Rusty on your crochet? Check out my tutorials for how to single crochet, increase and decrease. Start with a sloppy slip knot. Ch 2. Round 1: Sc 6 times in 2nd ch from hook. (6)Round 2: Sc twice in each st. (12)Round 3: *Sc twice in next st, sc in next
- [Meet Ellen the Elephant!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2021/01/meet-ellen-the-elephant.html) - I love the 15th! It's pattern release day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! The new pattern this month is Ellen the Elephant. I made her in three different colors and this silly green elephant splashing around in pink lemonade was my favorite. :-) If you're in the club already, head
- [Free Knitting Pattern: Easy Peasy Socks!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/06/free-knitting-pattern-easy-peasy-socks-beginner.html) - I just designed a pair of socks for my beginning sock knitting class... and have made the pattern a free download! These socks are designed with the first-time sock knitter in mind. Sock knitting can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. All you need to be able to do is work in the
- [Begin - a free felt applique and embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/04/begin-a-free-felt-applique-and-embroidery-pattern.html) - I started this project AGES ago and finally finished it. I haven't been working on it anything like steadily. I didn't plan on releasing a pattern, so I just picked it up and worked on it at odd moments, and didn't worry about documenting the process much. Of course, now people want a pattern! I'm
- [Tin Can Carrier - free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/new-free-pattern.html) - What on earth is that weird-looking thing up there? That, my friends, is my newest free pattern. I call it a carrying can. It's a terrific toy (and toy tote) for kids. It’s a pineapple juice can, completely covered with fabric, with a small, elasticized opening in the top making it easy to reach in and
- [Free Goody Bag Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/12/free-goody-bag-pattern.html) - You can whip up some easy peasy reusable fabric gift bags with the free pattern you'll find here. If you use a cute fabric and some ribbon you can whip up a batch in no time. If you fancy a little stitching time in front of the fire - try some of these Made by
- [Guide to Donating Stuffed Animals](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/12/guide-to-donating-stuffed-animals.html) - In this post, I'll be sharing tips for finding a local source to receive your handmade creations. The comfort of a plush I love stuffed animals and I totally believe in their power to comfort. You had a favorite as a kid, didn't you? One that you slept with and was like a security blanket?
- [What are the different kinds of sewing needles?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/ask-wendi-lets-talk-needles.html) - Wendi
- [Intro to Quilting Triangles - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-intro-to-quilting-triangles.html) - I've gotten a lot of emails asking for a help piecing triangles. Your wish is my command! This video isn't a how to - that'll come tomorrow. This one walks you through the two kinds of triangles we're going to learn - half-square triangles and quarter-square triangles. These are the most common triangles you'll find
- [Ho Ho Ho Holiday Accessories - free crochet Christmas tree and Santa hat pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/12/ho-ho-ho-holiday-accessories-free-crochet-christmas-tree-and-santa-hat-pattern.html) - If you don't have a metal washer, you can cut a circle of cardboard. It will give you the flatness without the weight. Round 23 [sc2tog, sc in next st] 6 times (12) Round 24 [sc2tog] 6 times (6) Use the drawstring method to close up the last hole. Finished! If you want to make your tree
- [Free Hot Stuff Apron Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/free-hot-stuff-apron-pattern.html) - Wendi
- [Easy Apron - Free Sewing Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/easy-apron-free-sewing-pattern.html) - Aprons. This is about the easiest apron you can possibly sew. A rectangle of fabric, gathered at the top, and edged with double-fold tape that also serves as a tie. Easy peasy! Follow this pattern to whip one up in an afternoon, and you'll be an expert - ready for some really fun variations
- [Free Pattern - Fire-breathing Handwarmers](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/free-pattern-fire-breathing-handwarmers.html) - ‘Tis the season for chilly fingers. Unless you have these fire-breathing hand warmers, of course! These pocket-sized monsters are easy to whip up, use scraps of fabulously fun faux fur, and are filled with rice so you can pop them in the microwave for hand-warming goodness. Add a few drops of essential oil or a
- [Scary Squares vs. Mix & Match Monsters - What's the Difference?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/10/scary-squares-vs-mix-match-monsters-whats-difference.html) - Wendi
- [Meet Frank & Vlad](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/meet-frank-vlad.html) - Today I want to show you how I Halloweenified the Karl pattern to make Frank and Vlad. First, I'd like you to meet Frank. Frank is made with the basic Karl doll pattern - with just a few key changes. First of all, he's green. :-) And he has a couple of scars. I stitched
- [How to Sew in an Exposed Zipper - Video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/how-to-sew-in-an-exposed-zipper-video.html) - There are a few different ways to work with zippers - this is one of the easiest. Zippers aren't hard at all, but they have a reputation for being tricky so I'm going to ease you into it. This is NOT the technique you'd use for most garment sewing - that's "hiding" a zipper behind
- [Free Pattern - The Gobbler - A Pencil Eating Monster](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/free-pattern-gobbler-pencil-eating-monster-back-school.html) - I call this pencil-eating pouch The Gobbler. It's so much fun to choose fabrics and sew this project! If you can sew a straight line and sew on buttons - you can make The Gobbler. You can make it even if you've never sewn a straight line - the pattern has links to videos teaching
- [Sloth Lovie - a free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/12/sloth-lovie-free-pattern.html) - I made a bunch of sweet sloth lovies for the Dear Stella Quilt Market booth and now they're sharing the pattern so you can make your own! Get the free sloth lovie pattern here. Update: This pattern has been so popular that I designed a matching quilt pattern with that same sweet face. You can
- [Meet Troy the Tree Frog](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/07/meet-troy-the-tree-frog.html) - It's the 15th! That means it's New Pattern Day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! Meet Troy the tree frog! I love this guy! There's already a frog pattern at Shiny Happy World, but he's more of a pond frog with a long, sticky tongue. Troy has awesome sticky tree frog
- [What are some  good commercial patterns for costuming?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/favorite-commercial-patterns-for-costuming.html) - Today I thought I'd share some of my favorite commercial patterns with you all. I drafted the pattern for Jo's Sally dress - but only because I couldn't find a commercial pattern with the right silhouette. If there's an already-made pattern available for use - I use it! Especially for kids patterns because they're generally
- [Meet Corbin the Camel](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/09/meet-corbin-the-camel.html) - I love the 15th! It's pattern release day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! The new pattern this month is Corbin the Camel. I'm so jealous of his eyelashes! If you're in the club already, head over to the clubhouse to download the pattern. This link will take you right to
- [Using Stretchy Knit Fabric for a Rag Doll](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/using-stretchy-knit-fabric-for-a-rag-doll.html) - As soon as I wrote this post about sewing softies with stretchy knits, I started getting questions about using knits to make Dress Up Bunch rag dolls. I decided to give it a try and the answer is YES! With a couple of caveats. :-) Everything in the post about stuffed animals applies to rag dolls. Test
- [Everything You Need to Know about the Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt.html) - I'm completely in love with the Controlled Chaos scrap quilt! A lot of you are too, because I've been getting a lot of emails asking about it lately. :-) It's about time to put all the links together into one handy place! I'm still working on the quilting, so this is a work in
- [Crocheting baby-safe eyes for amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/09/crocheting-baby-safe-eyes-amigurumi-stuffed-animals.html) - Larger-sized amigurumi make lovely presents for babies... but you've got to make sure they're safe for the little ones! Today, I'm going to give you the pattern for crocheting baby-safe eyes (to replace the plastic eyes often called for in patterns), and show you a technique for attaching the eyes so you'll end up with
- [Using a Glue Stick to Hold Appliqué Pieces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/01/using-a-glue-stick-to-hold-applique-pieces.html) - Using a fabric glue stick to hold appliqué pieces in place while I sew has been one of my best discoveries ever. Maybe a bunch of you do this already? I have a very fraught relationship with glue. There are the glues that make your paper bubble and warp. The glues that seep beyond where
- [Serena Seal - the new Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/12/serena-seal-the-new-funny-faces-quilt-block-of-the-month-club-pattern.html) - The new Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month pattern is out! Here's the video showing how to put it all together. If you're not a member yet - see how easy it is! Here are all the links I mentioned in the video. . . Funny Faces Clubhouse (link for members) Funny Faces Quilt
- [Meet Mo Muskox - new applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/06/meet-mo-muskox-new-applique-pattern.html) - There's a new pattern today in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! (If you're in the club already, use this link to go into the clubhouse. If you're not in the club yet, use this link to join.) Meet Mo Muskox! Isn't he a cutie? Mo is the first winner of the
- [Creating cone shapes in amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/11/crochet-cone-shapes-amigurumi.html) - A basic amigurumi circle is made by working an increase round (usually 6 evenly-distributed increases) every round. This standard pattern of increasing is how you get nice round shapes, such as the baby penguin's head and body. In this blog post, we're going to show how changing the number of increase rounds can provide you
- [Silly Sloth Fabrics](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/01/silly-sloth-fabrics.html) - A lot of people have asked about the fabrics I used for the Silly Sloths quilt pattern. They're all from Dear Stella Design. I used five different prints, with three colors (a dark, medium and light) for each print. I used the darks for the background blocks and the eye patches. I used the mediums
- [Meet Liz Llama!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/05/meet-liz-llama.html) - Today is release day for the newest pattern in the Funny Faces quilt block of the month club! You've already met Liz Llama. :-) She was a mocked--up quilt pattern in the 100 Day Project I've been working on on Instagram. She was so popular there that I made her this month's wallpaper. And there
- [Yarn Bombing + Free Crochet Flower Pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/yarn-bombing-free-crochet-flower-pattern.html) - Did you know that this week is World Wide Knit in Public week? To kick off the week, my LYS had a yarn-bombing event to decorate the parking meters and trees in front of the shop. Want to know what makes a yarn-bombing party ROCK (besides kettle corn)? Adorable crocheted flowers! I'll share some easy
- [Free Pattern - Flora the felt bird](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/free-pattern-flora-the-felt-bird.html) - This little felt bird was such a delight to make! Seriously - I loved every minute of it. I want to make a whole flock of them in rainbow colors! And now you can make her too. The embroidery is all easy - just three of the most basic stitches - backstitch, lazy daisy, and
- [Playing with Improv Piecing - Stripes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/03/playing-with-improv-piecing-stripes.html) - I finished my design wall (you can get instructions here) and immediately started sewing some blocks to pin up there. You see - I have a specific project in mind and I'm sooooo eager to get to it! This is the door between my office and my husband's office. I love that barn door -
- [Think BIG! Fun and Easy Giant Applique Class](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/10/think-big-fun-easy-giant-applique-class.html) - Wendi
- [How do I enlarge or reduce a pattern?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/enlarging-or-reducing-a-pattern.html) - L.A.C.E over at My Glass House had a great question that I wanted to answer here for everyone. She's making a bunch of Bartholomew Bunnies and she's thinking of making a really big version of the bunny next. She asked if I had ever made one. No, I haven't. But I have enlarged and reduced
- [Meet Sanford Squirrel](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/04/meet-sanford-squirrel.html) - It's the 15th! That means it's New Pattern Day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! Meet Sanford! He's just a little bit grumpy. He's even grumpy at a party! Here he is wearing a party hat from the Fancy Doodads pattern. :-) There's already a squirrel block in the Woodland Critters
- [Free Bunny Softie Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/free-bunny-softie-pattern.html) - It's a free bunny softie pattern! With a soft beanie body and small size, this Itty Bitty Bunny is just perfect for Easter baskets! And it's super easy to make! It can't wait to hop into the pocket of someone special. :-) Here's how to make it! Materials scrap bunny­-colored fabric scrap of pink satin
- [Try adding pupils to your amigurumi eyes!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/amigurumi-eyes-crochet-tip-how-to.html) - They say that eyes are the window to the soul. Maybe your crocheted stuffed animals don't have souls, but the eyes add quite a bit of character! Today I'm going to share a great tip for giving your crocheted eyes some extra pizazz. Eye Options You have lots of options for eyes on your amigurumi!
- [Tutorial - Using Safety Eyes with Woven Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/tutorial-safety-eyes-woven-fabric.html) - Usually I use safety eyes with polar fleece or fake fur. You can see a video showing how to use them here. They really stand out from the fabric and look great - and there's nothing you need to fuss with. But when I was designing Bean I decided I wanted the face to look
- [Getting the Eyes Just Right](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/eyes.html) - Last summer I wrote a post about how I design softie faces. The face is really important, and I usually spend a lot of time on it, trying a lot of variations until it feels just right. I always try things out on an already-stuffed softie. That does two things. I don't have to visually
- [Meet Russell Rat - the Newest Funny Faces Block](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/02/meet-russell-rat-the-newest-funny-faces-block.html) - It's the 15th! That means it's New Pattern Day in the Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club! We just celebrated Chinese New Year last month and it's now the year of the rat - so I made a cute rat block! Want to see how easy it is to assemble? Watch this video.
- [How to Whipstitch - The Easy Way to Sew Up a Stuffing Opening - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-whipstitch-the-easy-way-to-sew-up-a-stuffing-opening.html) - If you make softies or pillows - or anything else that requires stuffing - you'll need to sew up the opening by hand. I teach two basic methods for doing that - the easy way and the invisible way. This is the easy way. I've taught it to 5 and 6 year-olds and they do
- [How to Read a Bead Crochet Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/05/how-to-read-a-bead-crochet-pattern.html) - I love bead crochet! I learned loads of techniques from the book Bead Crochet Jewelry, and I highly recommend it as a starting place for learning! But what if you want to do more? Today I'm going to show you how to read bead crochet patterns, of the type you'll find on Pinterest and online!
- [Picking needles for knitting your sock...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/knitting-needles-sock-circular-double-point-comparison.html) - A lot of folks get intimidated by sock knitting... and one of the things that's so scary is picking what kind of needles to use! There are so many choices! The truth is that the choice of which needles to use is completely personal preference, so you'll probably have to try out a few. In
- [How to Count Rows in Garter Stitch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/how-to-count-rows-in-garter-stitch.html) - I love knitting garter stitch. 'Garter stitch' is what it's called when you knit every row, turning your work after each row. How do you count rows in garter stitch? When I'm knitting in garter stitch, the pattern instructions usually say 'knit 20 rows' (or some other number), and I don't want to use a
- [What is a skein? Demystifying names for yarn bundles.](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/what-is-a-skein-demystifying-names-for-yarn-bundles.html) - Skein. Hank. Ball. Cake. You may have heard these terms thrown around by 'yarnies', but what do they mean? Today, I'll tell you! Now I've talked to a lot of yarn people in my time... and what folks don't seem to admit is that there's a little bit of wiggle room/variation in what these terms
- [Tutorial: Unpaper Towels!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/tutorial-unpaper-towels-how-to-sewing.html) - Getting Rid of Paper Towels... We haven't had paper towels in our house for a couple of years now. Besides the environmental downsides to disposable towels (which really, probably isn't all that bad when compared to take-out containers, excessive packaging in shipping and the oodles of other wasteful things us Americans do)... I just couldn't
- [Stitch Love Blog Hop - free pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/stitch-love-blog-hop-free-pattern.html) - Wendi
- [Daily Dot 2020](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/02/daily-dot-2020.html) - I decided that this is the year I really want to improve my drawing. I used the Procreate app on my iPad to draw all the motifs in my book (How to Embroider Almost Everything) but that's just black and white line drawings. I wanted to take it further. I especially wanted to learn how
- [How to Assemble the Lion Block](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2020/01/how-to-assemble-the-lion-block.html) - The lion is the most popular block in the Safari quilt pattern - and now he's available as a stand-alone pattern. Use him on pillows, tote bags, placemats, and more. Or make a whole quilt with just lion blocks! You can get the Liam Lion applique pattern here. And here's a video showing exactly how
- [What size crochet hook do I use for amigurumi?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/03/what-size-crochet-hook-do-i-use-for-amigurumi.html) - Want to learn how to make adorable crocheted stuffed animals with an easy online workshop - totally free? Sign up for Let's Make Amigurumi here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, and how to make an easy amigurumi from start to finish using simple crochet stitches. It's a fun, inexpensive,
- [Flutterby - a free butterfly embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/flutterby-free-butterfly-embroidery-pattern.html) - When my daughter Jo was little, I made her a yellow dress lined with pink satin, embroidered with a butterfly almost exactly like this one. She loved it and wore it ALL THE TIME. When she outgrew it she passed it on to a smaller friend who also wore it ALL THE TIME. The last
- [How To Sew a Straight Line on the Machine - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-sew-a-straight-line-on-the-machine.html) - Here it is - the moment you've all been waiting for - sewing on the machine! We're going to start with straight lines and then we'll have a separate lesson on sewing curved lines. In the video you'll see me sewing on a piece of paper. You can download that sheet here. One thing I
- [Tips and Tricks for Sewing Curves - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/tips-and-tricks-for-sewing-curves.html) - You can make an awful lot of stuff just sewing straight lines, but at some point you're going to want to sew a curve. Sewing a curved line isn't really any harder than sewing a straight line - unless it's a tight curve. And the tighter the curve, the tougher it is to sew smoothly.
- [Daily Dot Creativity Challenge](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/12/daily-dot-creativity-challenge.html) - "Just make a mark and see where it takes you." That's one of my favorite lines from my very favorite book about creativity - THE DOT by Peter Reynolds. (That's an affiliate link.) It's also the inspiration behind the start of my creative practice for the new year - and I'm inviting you to join
- [Reusable Christmas Gift Bags](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/12/reusable-christmas-gift-bags.html) - I don't use paper gift wrap anymore. It's expensive. It's a pain to store. And the pile of it left after opening gifts always feels more than a little wasteful. A couple of years ago I started making fabric bags for gifts. I love them! They're so crazy easy to make - and they take
- [Farewell Ami Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/12/farewell-ami-club.html) - After three years (that's 36 patterns!) Ami Club is now closed. I hope you all have had as much fun as Stacey and I have! Pippa Puppy is the final pattern in the club. If you're a club member, you'll be able to download the pattern here until your membership runs out. Everyone's membership and
- [Kevin Koala Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/11/kevin-koala-applique-pattern.html) - There's a new Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club pattern. Meet Kevin Koala! I made a pink-on-pink-on-pink version, too. 😄 If you're already in the club, pop over to the clubhouse to download your new pattern. If you're not in the club yet, you can join here. This cutie is super easy to
- [Do you knit two at a time?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/do-you-knit-two-at-a-time.html) - Have you ever knit two at a time? I originally learned to knit two socks at a time using Antje Gillingham's book Knitting Circles around Socks: Knit Two at a Time on Circular Needles... but now I use the technique for all kinds of things! What does it mean to knit two at a time?
- [A Pretty Felt Bird Ornament Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/pretty-felt-bird-ornament-pattern.html) - I seem to be slightly obsessed with pretty, patterned birds - but they're so much fun to stitch! This felt bird ornament is the tenth ornament in the Christmas Club collection. We've only got two more to go! Here they all are so far. . . You can still join at any time! The Welcome PDF
- [Mini Stockings Advent Calendar Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/11/mini-stockings-advent-calendar-pattern.html) - The Mini Stockings Advent Calendar pattern is finished and it was so much fun to make! You get patterns for 25 mini stockings - just the right size to hold candy, small toys, gift cards and more. Open a stocking every night to count down the days until Christmas! One of my favorite things about
- [Meet Becky - the New Ami Club Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/11/meet-becky-the-new-ami-club-pattern.html) - Meet Becky! Isn't she a cutie? She's super easy to make. Everything is crocheted together - the only sewing you need to do is a simple bit of running stitch to attach her wig to her head. Easy peasy! Get the pattern here. Happy stitching! Best,Wendi
- [Tutorial: Gnome Costume](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/tutorial-gnome-costume.html) - Happy Halloween! Maddie decided that she wanted to be a gnome for Halloween... and I thought it was a good excuse to put my craftiness to good use. This is a great costume to make! It's adorable, and you only need to make a few components. Combined with store-bought clothes, it looks amazing! If you're
- [How to Applique Outside Points - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/video-how-to-applique-outside-points.html) - It's the last of the machine embroidery videos - covering the trickiest shape - outside points. Outside points are tricky because you have so little space for your seam allowance to sit. The allowances have to be trimmed very close, and you often wind up with raggedy frayed threads at the tip. Yuck. My technique
- [Getting My Quilting Mojo Back](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/quilting-mojo.html) - I used to be a quilter - with a capital Q. I entered my quilts into shows and sold them in galleries. I liked making the quilts, but I hated everything else about the process. I hated writing Very Serious Artist Statements. I hated entering quilt shows. I hated worrying about how much time I
- [A Matroyshka Doll - felt Christmas ornament pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/matroyshka-doll-felt-christmas-ornament-pattern.html) - All the detail stitching and bits of applique in this matroyshka doll were So Much Fun! I love a rich little project like this one - lots of detail for fun stitching, but it's small so I can finish it in a couple of nights. :-) This is the ninth ornament in the Christmas Club collection.
- [Want to try 9 inch circular needles?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/want-to-try-9-inch-circular-needles.html) - I absolutely love knitting socks on 9 inch circular needles. Most people think I'm crazy when I say that my favorite knitting needle is a 9" circular. But I can't help it. I'm in love. When you knit with other techniques (double point needles, two circulars or magic loop), there's always a join that creates
- [How I designed 10 monsters (without getting bored)!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/how-i-designed-10-monsters-without-getting-bored.html) - Do you want to know the question I'm asked most often? No kidding. Almost everyone asks me this. It was actually the only downside that my husband brought up when I began designing. "Aren't you going to run out?" In fact, the inverse is true: the more I design, the more ideas I get! The
- [How to Make Quarter Square Triangles - video and cheat sheet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/quarter-square-triangles-video-cheat-sheet.html) - The first triangle blocks I taught you were half square triangles. Those are my favorites and you can make quilts for the rest of your life and never move beyond that. Seriously. They're that versatile. But quarter square triangles are also a great skill to have. They're not much harder, and they allow you to
- [New DMC Thread Colors - a Finished Stitches Prize!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/dmc-thread-colors-finished-stitches-prize.html) - Just in time to be one of the prizes in the Finished Stitches Challenge - DMC has released sixteen luscious new thread colors! Want a quick recap of the prizes? Gift certificates to TWO awesome embroidery pattern shops - Polka & Bloom and Wild Olive. Beautiful embroidery books - the brand new Stitched Blooms and
- [Block 12 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/block-12-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Here's block #12 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! What You’ll Need 64 two-inch squares in color A (shown in red) 36 two-inch squares in color B (shown in yellow) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt. I think it will make things simpler in
- [A Red Rocket - felt Christmas ornament pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/red-rocket-felt-christmas-ornament-pattern.html) - I love this retro red rocket Christmas ornament! We have a collection of tin rockets and robots and this felt version fits right in with that vintage toy feel. This is the seventh ornament in the Christmas Club collection. Here are the first six. . . You can still join at any time! The Welcome PDF that you get with
- [Free Cowl Pattern + Crazy Skein Cowl Kits!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/either-way-cowl-free.html) - I used to carry some awesome Shepherds Wool Crazy Skein yarn and I got a lot of questions about what would be the best thing to make with it. I've used it for lots of things - hats, shawls, scarves and and awesome cowl. I wrote up a quickie pattern for you that shows
- [Mini Stockings Advent Calendar Pattern - all your questions answered](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/10/mini-stockings-advent-calendar-pattern-questions-answered.html) - I've been stitching away at the Mini Stockings Advent Calendar and I've been getting a lot of questions about it. I thought I'd pull together all of my answers in one handy place. :-) How big are the stockings? They're definitely mini stockings. Each stocking is about 4 inches wide and 5 inches tall -
- [Bears in the Hills](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/bears-in-the-hills.html) - Wendi
- [One Technique - A Kajillion Costumes - No Pattern Needed - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/one-technique-twenty-costumes-no-pattern-needed.html) - Way back this summer when I taught Harry Potter Camp I promised you I'd make a video showing how to make these easy Harry Potter cloaks - without a pattern. I didn't forget! And for those who joined us after this summer - I had 20 kids in the class (ages 7-12) and they all made
- [Show & Tell Time!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/show-time-2.html) - It's one of my favorite posts every month - sharing what people are making with Shiny Happy World patterns! I love getting your photos!Annette made this fabulous Franklin the Fat Cat. I think this is the first one I've seen in green and I love him! She writes. . . I just finished making Franklin
- [Book Review - Quilting Happiness](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/book-review-quilting-happiness.html) - When I read a book to review it, I read it with a notepad next to me so I can capture my thoughts as I go along. My notes for Quilting Happiness – a terrific new book by Diane Gilleland and Christina Lane ended up being a long list of things I loved. So let
- [Block 11 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/block-11-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Here's block #11 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! This one is super simple and easy. What You’ll Need 40 two-inch squares in color A (shown in purple) 60 two-inch squares in color B (shown in pale blue) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt.
- [A Cute Kitty - felt Christmas ornament pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/a-cute-kitty-felt-christmas-ornament-pattern.html) - I love this cute kitty felt Christmas ornament! This is one you can whip up in no time - which makes it super easy to make more than one. How about one in smoky grey? Or a black cat for Halloween? Play! (Or fill one with catnip and let your cat play. But don't hang that one
- [When should you teach a child to knit/crochet?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/when-should-you-teach-a-child-to-knit-crochet.html) - A little while ago, someone on Twitter asked me: My reply: whichever she's most interested in, whenever she's ready Children begin to crawl at different ages. Kids start to speak at different ages. Is it any surprise that different children are ready to knit/crochet at different ages? When is a child ready to knit/crochet? There
- [EEP! It's an EPP Halloween Blog Hop!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/10/eep-its-an-epp-halloween-blog-hop.html) - I've really been having fun playing with English Paper Piecing (EPP) ever since I got Diane Gilleland's All Points Patchwork and made my very first EPP project. I reviewed that book here. In a nutshell - it's absolutely fabulous. Every time I look at a hexie template - especially when it's solo and surrounded by other fabric
- [Get Stuffed! A Stuffing Review and Giveaway](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/stuffing_review_giveaway.html) - Happy sewing! Best,Wendi
- [A Dapper Felt Gingerbread Man Ornament](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/dapper-felt-gingerbread-man-ornament.html) - I love this cute felt gingerbread man ornament - with his dapper pinstriped pants and his fancy snowflake buttons. :-) The pattern includes suggested felt colors to make chocolate and sugar cookie versions. Wouldn't it be cute to make a bunch with different colored outfits and string them together into a garland? This is the
- [Block 10 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/block-10-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Click here for all the Controlled Chaos posts. Happy piecing! Best,Wendi
- [Free Waves Stitch Pattern + Cowl Tutorial!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/10/free-waves-stitch-pattern-cowl-tutorial.html) - One of my favorite stitches is the wave stitch. So, when Maddie asked for a scarf for fall, I knew right where to turn! First, I pulled out a SpaceCadet Rainbow Mini-Skein Bundle and let Maddie choose the colors she wanted. (Since each mini-skein is 70 yards, I needed less than 3 to make a
- [Bears in the Hills - a Progress Report](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/bears-in-the-hills-a-progress-report.html)
- [Where does silk come from?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/where-does-silk-come-from.html) - From a silkworm, of course! Well, we call them silkworms, but they're actually caterpillars... About Silk Let's step back a little bit. Have you met my friend, silk? Silk is an astonishing fiber that has many dazzling features. Silk: Is super-smooth and shiny. This is because it's a protein that is extruded by the silk
- [Block 9 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/block-9-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Wendi
- [A Not-So-Itsy-Bitsy Spider - a new handsewing pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/itsy-bitsy-spider-new-handsewing-pattern.html) - I originally designed this spider as a best friend for Nellie the Pig. She was made of light grey felt with a friendly smiling face – not scary at all. This is the perfect little spider to send up the water spout when you’re singing The Itsy Bitsy Spider with a group of preschoolers. :-) You can see that
- [Crochet Provisional Cast On Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/crochet-provisional-cast-on-tutorial.html) - The crochet cast on is a fabulous cast on to have in your knitting tool kit. And I've made you a video to show you how to do it! It uses a 'waste' piece of yarn that you'll pull out when you're finished knitting: leaving a row of live stitches on the first row! It's
- [The Crochet Wildlife Guide Review + FREE Penguin Pattern + Giveaway!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/the-crochet-wildlife-guide-review-free-penguin-pattern-giveaway.html) - I am so excited! I love showing off a great book to you... and there are so many goodies! Keep reading to grab a FREE download of the Chinstrap Penguin by Philip Ha (aka Sir Purl Grey) AND enter to win a digital copy of the book, The Crochet Wildlife Guide. The Crochet Wildlife Guide
- [Save yourself a knot by working your yarn from both ends of the skein!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/work-both-ends-skein-how-to.html) - Has this ever happened to you: you're crocheting along, but discover that you need to use your yarn for another piece? Do you have to cut the yarn? Not if you know this little trick! This one will work for both crocheting & knitting. As you can see here, I've been crocheting with the yarn
- [Book Review: Beastly Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/book-review-beastly-crochet.html) - As soon as I saw the cover of Brenda Anderson's new book, Beastly Crochet, I knew there would be some cuties inside: But... I had no idea there would be so much other awesome stuff! Let's peek inside, shall we? The Beasties You know me, I can't resist a cute stuffed animal. (Are monsters really
- [How to Spot Clean a Stuffed Animal](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/how-to-spot-clean-a-stuffed-animal.html) - If you crocheted a stuffed animal using a hand wash-only yarn, then you can't just throw the little guy into the washing machine. You'll need to spot clean. Here's how to do it! How to Spot Clean Spot cleaning basically means cleaning a particular area of an item without submerging the entire item. It's a
- [Block 8 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/block-8-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Here's block #8 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! What You’ll Need 36 two-inch squares in color A (shown in yellow) 64 two-inch squares in color B (shown in green) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt. I think it will make things simpler in
- [Show & Tell Time!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/show-tell-time-11.html) - It's Show & tell Time again! Today I'm sharing some AMAZING quilts that Shiny Happy People have been making. :-) Melinda Take a look at the lovely Woodland Critters quilt that Melinda made! Result: 6 mug rugs, or maybe 6 place mats for a teddy bear's picnic. Thanks for all the patterns and tutorials. I love
- [Book Review: Flip Dolls & Other Toys That Zip, Stack, Hide, Grab & Go](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/book-review-flip-dolls-toys-zip-stack-hide-grab.html) - As soon as I saw the name of this book I knew I had to have a closer look. I LOVE softies that do something! And the toys in this book do the most clever things! There's a stacking tree that unstacks to make a forest of individual trees. There's a frog with an elastic
- [Block 7 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/block-7-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - I had to take a bit of a break from the Controlled Chaos while I made my daughter Jo a T-shirt quilt to take to school with her, but I'm back! I'm easing back into things with some simple wide stripes. Ready to make block #7? What You’ll Need 60 two-inch squares in color A (shown
- [A Cute Dinosaur for Your Christmas Tree](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/cute-dinosaur-christmas-tree.html) - One of the many things I love about felt ornaments is that they're impossible to break. That makes them perfect to give to even the youngest kids! And I love, love, LOVE the way little felt toys look hanging on a tree. :-) The second ornament in the 2014 Christmas Club is a cute little
- [Why I Use Wool Felt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/09/use-wool-felt.html) - This is why I use wool felt. I designed the pattern for this little gizmo cozy (it's free here) in February 2011. I've been using it to protect my MP3 player in my purse ever since. That's 3 1/2 years this little thing has been tumbling around in my purse and look at it! It still
- [A Sweet Smiling Teddy Bear Ornament](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/a-sweet-smiling-teddy-bear-ornament.html) - Everyone in the Christmas Club received the pattern for ornament #3 this morning. Happy Monday! I love the sweet smile on this teddy bear face. And I love that this is a pattern you can use all year! Wouldn't it be cute to top a baby shower gift with this cutie? Or appliqué that little
- [You Can Stitch Your Child's Drawings!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/you-can-stitch-your-childs-drawings.html) - Did you know that once you've got the basics of appliqué under your belt, you can appliqué anything? Including your child's awesome drawings? You can! This is one of Jo's drawings. I never put a date on it, so I don't know exactly how old she was when she drew it, but it's in a
- [A Dachshund in a Candy Cane Sweater - Because Christmas!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/09/a-dachshund-in-a-candy-cane-sweater-because-christmas.html) - The second pattern in this year's Christmas Club went out this morning! I must be on a bit of a sweater kick. The first ornament was a snowman sweater. This week's is a cute dachshund wearing a candy cane sweater. I've wanted to do this design forever! I've never actually seen a dachshund in a candy
- [Shiny Happy Haunted Houses](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/09/shiny-happy-haunted-houses.html) - If you have the Shiny Happy Houses quilt pattern, you can use it to make a whole different quilt just by switching out the fabrics. Make a fun haunted house quilt! For this block the arch templates that I usually use for doors and windows became fun tombstones! I used ghost and creepy eyeball buttons
- [Fish Quilt Step 2 - Choosing Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/09/fish-quilt-step-2-choosing-fabric.html) - Want to learn how to make a quilt with an easy online workshop - totally free? Sign up for Let's Make a Quilt here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, and how to make a quilt from start to finish using Quilt As You Go and applique with fusible adhesive.
- [Sneak Peek at a New Project: Which Beaver Is the Cutest?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/sneak-peek-at-a-new-project-which-beaver-is-the-cutest.html) - Choosing thread! That lucky beaver has something colorful to chomp on, so I get to dip into the rainbow. :-) So many colors to choose from! And these are only about half of my stash of Sulky Petites 12 wt. thread. (You can read my review of this thread here.) Final project coming Saturday! It's
- [Cutting Felt with My Cricut Maker](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/09/cutting-felt-with-my-cricut-maker.html)
- [Finishing amigurumi: keeping stuffing out of your crochet stitches](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/finishing-amigurumi-keeping-stuffing-out-of-your-crochet-stitches.html) - Yay! We're almost finished crocheting our dragons! How's yours coming along? Today, I'll show you two ways to keep stuffing out of those final stitches of your dragon bottom. Use your non-dominant hand The easiest way to keep stuffing out of your stitches for the last few rounds is to use the index finger of
- [Designing a Rag Doll - a Peek at the Design Process](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/designing-rag-doll.html) - Today's post is part of the Let's Talk Process Blog Hop! Eight different designers are each choosing a recent project and talking about the process of designing that project. Our approaches are all likely to be really different - and all inspiring! I love peeking behind the scenes at the process that goes into a
- [T-shirt Quilt - Almost Finished](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/t-shirt-quilt-almost-finished.html) - Here's a quick update on the T-shirt quilt. 22 blocks finished, 8 still to go. But I only have 5 T-shirts left in my pile! Jo's cleaning out her closet today and she may pull out a couple more that are getting too small. If that doesn't net us three more I'll be hitting my
- [Leon Lion is Here!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/leon-lion.html) - That fluffing really fills things out! I took this photo after fluffing, but spreading apart the mane so you can see his scalp underneath. You can see that there’s actually a LOT of scalp visible if you work your way down there – rather like a doll’s head. So don’t worry about getting perfect coverage
- [Some Extra Help for Downloading Pattern Files](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/08/some-extra-help-for-downloading-pattern-files.html) - If you've been here for any time at all, you've heard me go on and on about how important it is to download your pattern files and save them to your own computer, and to back up ALL your files. It's in every pattern delivery email and I do a PSA on social media about
- [Fergal the Fox - applique pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/08/fergal-the-fox-applique-pattern.html) - A couple of weeks ago I sent out a survey asking readers which block from each of my quilt patterns you'd like to see as an individual pattern. Your responses were awesome! I'll be working over the next several weeks to release the patterns you chose - and I'm starting with the one that was
- [Making a T-shirt Quilt - Part 4](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/making-t-shirt-quilt-part-4.html) - Today I'm going to share a bit of problem-solving with you for your T-shirt quilts. Most T-shirt designes are pretty well centered, with some room all the way around. But sometimes the design of a T-shirt goes right up to the armhole, making it difficult to cut a square corner and get all the important
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - The Last Block!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-the-last-block.html) - Here it is! The very last block in the Controlled Chaos scrap quilt! What You’ll Need 52 two-inch squares in color A (shown in purple) 48 two-inch squares in color B (shown in green) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams as you go. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt.
- [Zsa Zsa Loves the Bling on Her Collar](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/zsa-zsa-loves-bling-collar.html) - This is Zsa Zsa. Am I dating myself that when someone suggested a collar with bling I immediately thought of Zsa Zsa Gabor? :-) Anyway - I made Zsa Zsa using the Pip pattern, a shortish pile white fur, and a couple of scraps of pink satin for the ear linings. I made Zsa Zsa
- [Meet Stacey - a Judge in the Mix & Match Monsters Contest](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/08/meet-stacey-judge-mix-match-monsters-contest.html) - I learned how to make hats in her Mix & Match Hats class on Craftsy - and now I can make crochet hats in lots of different shapes, customized to fit any head! I went a step further and learned how to make adorable monsters in her Design Your Own Monster class on Craftsy. See why
- [Free Felt Bird Pattern - Meet Petal](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/free-felt-bird-pattern-meet-petal.html) - Brighten up your world a bit with Petal - a free felt bird pattern. Isn't she pretty? She looks complicated - but she's really not hard to make. It's all hand embroidery and hand sewing, so it's not fast. But this is a project that takes more patience than skill. Expect to spend a couple
- [My Craftsy Quilting Class Is Live - and I have a HUGE discount for you!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/my-craftsy-quilting-class-is-live-and-i-have-a-huge-discount-for-you.html) - Woo hoo! My Craftsy class is LIVE! And have I got a deal for you! But first - let's move my big head out of the way so you can see the whole quilt. :-) You guys saw bits and pieces in the sneak peeks last week, but here's the entire thing - my Woodland Critters
- [How to crochet in rows without turning](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/crochet-rows-backwards-left-handed-right-side.html) - I love crocheting in the round, because I like how the right side of crochet looks. When you crochet in the round (spirals), you don't need to turn, so you always have the pretty side of the stitches facing you. Typically, when you crochet in rows, you turn your work at the end of the
- [Learning Bead Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/learning-bead-crochet.html) - Goals for Bead Crochet I got a copy of Bead Crochet Jewelry, and the jewelry looks amazing! Bead crochet is a little different than regular crochet, and gives you a piece with a totally unique look. To bead crochet, you pre-string a lot of beads, and then (basically) slip stitch around a 4 stitch
- [Meet Abby Glassenberg - Softie Designer Extraordinaire](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/meet-abby-glassenberg-softie-designer-extraordinaire.html) - Today I'd like to introduce you all to a fellow pattern designer who makes softie patterns I think you'll love to make. Meet Abby Glassenberg! She's the author of Stuffed Animals: From Concept to Construction. She blogs at While She Naps, and sells digital patterns for softies in her shop. I started following Abby several
- [My Secret Weapon to Make Fabric Behave](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/secret-weapon-fabric-behave.html) - Starch. Starch! Simple. Cheap. Old-fashioned. Starch. It has been crazy humid here this summer. It's beyond humid. It's wet. We had over 17 inches of rain in the first week of July - and we've continued to have heavy rains in the last few weeks. We usually get about five inches for the whole month.
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #19](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-19.html) - Here's block #19 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! Just one more block to go! What You’ll Need 68 two-inch squares in color A (shown in yellow) 32 two-inch squares in color B (shown in pink) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams as you go. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt.
- [Crochet: Back Loop vs. Both Loops + Video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/07/crochet-back-loop-vs-both-loops.html) - This post was originally published April 28, 2015... but it's so popular that I've updated it and added a video! Crocheting is so much fun because there are so many options! Even a simple single crochet gives you the option of crocheting through the front loop, both loops or the back loop! Today, I'll show
- [The colorway I'm freaking out about...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/the-colorway-im-freaking-out-about.html) - Every once in a while, I spot a yarn that I totally fall in love with. My current obsession is Claudia Handpainted Fingering weight yarn in colorway: Circus Dancer. Isn't it beautiful? I'm obsessed with the super-bright blue, orange, pink and green! I couldn't help but start swatching immediately with it... This stitch pattern is
- [Different ways to space crochet increases!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/amigurumi-design-crochet-increases-even-swirl.html) - Happy Tip Tuesday, everyone! I'm going to chat about a topic that's very important to amigurumi-making: increases. Why is it so important? Because almost every amigurumi requires that you increase! Today, I'm going to compare two popular ways to position your increases, so when you're crocheting, you can pick the way you like best! For
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #18](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-18.html) - Here's block #18 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! There are only two left after this! What You’ll Need 64 two-inch squares in color A (shown in aqua) 36 two-inch squares in color B (shown in red) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams as you go. I’m pressing mine open for
- [Cute Quilt-As-You-Go Applique Monsters - video class](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/07/cute-quilt-go-applique-monsters-video-class.html) - Wendi
- [Meet Darius Dragon!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/07/meet-darius-dragon.html) - Darius is the new Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club pattern - just released today! (Darius means "maintains possessions well" which I think is the perfect name for a dragon.) If you're in the Funny Faces club, use this link to go straight to the clubhouse to download the new pattern - and
- [Come Visit Me at Made By Joel](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/come-visit-me-at-made-by-joel.html) - Hey everyone! I've got a guest post over at Made by Joel - one of my very favorite blogs! For those of you who don't know about Joel - he's an awesome Dad who make The Most Amazing Toys for his kids. Simple things out of everyday materials that have LOADS of play value. Scroll
- [What size is my crochet hook?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/size-crochet-hook-gauge.html) - Welcome to another Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to tell you how to figure out what size your crochet hook is. Now, if your crochet hook has the size written on it (either a letter or a number), then you can stop reading this blog post and continue crocheting. However, if you have an older
- [Playing with Paper](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/playing-with-paper.html) - Today my daughter is about halfway through her 3-week stay at camp. THREE WEEKS! She's never been gone more than a week before! And those previous trips were to stay with family. I miss her - but I know she's having a great time. I knew she would love it the second we set foot on
- [How to Make Easy Curtains](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/how-to-make-easy-curtains.html) - So these are the new curtains I made for my studio. I love them! And I thought I'd show you how to make them. They're so easy. I'm pretty particular about curtains. I hate the ones that actually block light. :-) I've made lined curtains once - for Jo's nursery when she was a baby.
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #17](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-17.html) - Here's block #17 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! What You’ll Need 48 two-inch squares in color A (shown in orange) 52 two-inch squares in color B (shown in green) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams as you go. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt. I think it will make
- [Why do different gauges use more or less yarn?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/why-do-different-gauges-use-more-or-less-yarn.html) - I hear you. Doing a gauge swatch is boring. You have a lovely ball of yarn in your hands and you just want to get started! But did you know that if your gauge is off, you may end up using more yarn than is recommended? And if you've purchased a kit, that may mean
- [Bears in the Hills - the Finished Project](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/07/bears-in-the-hills-the-finished-project.html) - Last week in the comments on one of the Bears in the Hills work-in-progress posts, someone asked if they could see it finished. How did I never post a photo of the finished piece? That's crazy! But it's true. :-P I shared it in the newsletter, but I never posted a photo here. So I'm
- [How I Design Softie Faces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/design-softie-faces.html) - Time for a process post - showing a bit behind the scenes of how I do some of my design work. Today we're talking faces. I think the face is one of the most important parts of any softie. It's where the personality really shines through! I want to make it easy for you to
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #16](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/07/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-16.html) - Here's block #16 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! What You’ll Need 36 two-inch squares in color A (shown in red) 64 two-inch squares in color B (shown in light blue) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt. I think it will make things simpler
- [Olivia the Sea Otter - crochet amigurumi pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/07/olivia-the-sea-otter-crochet-amigurumi-pattern.html) - Have you guys seen sweet Olivia the sea otter yet? I love her little ribbed seashell - there's a new video tutorial showing the easy stitch you use to get that fun texture. She was designed by the awesome and talented Alyssa Voznak and she's the new Ami Club pattern for July! You know about
- [Crocheting the cow's mouth: CAL help!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/crocheting-the-cows-mouth-cal-help.html) - Have you finished crocheting your pieces for the Cow Crochet-a-long? I've reviewed the basics for crocheting most of the pieces... but the mouth (and part 2 of the cow spot) are made by double crocheting semi-circles, which is a little different! Video help is here! What does '4th ch from hook' mean? How do you
- [Sewing Camp Awesomeness](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/sewing-camp-awesomeness.html) - Sewing Camp last week was a huge success. I'm so glad I brought my camera and made time to snap some photos on the last day. Look at the fabulous things they made. . . A cute bunny and some snakes in her lap - but don't miss the silly monster on the floor near
- [Connecting your Cow's Spots... it's easy!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/connecting-your-cows-spots-its-easy.html) - I'm lovin' the Cow Crochet-a-long... I'm already seeing some fabulous finished cows! Don't forget that, to have a chance to win the awesome prize, you'll need to post a photo of your cow either on our facebook page. How to connect spots For those of us who aren't finished... the tips are still coming! Click
- [Block 6 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/block-6-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - I was out of my studio last week so I didn't get a block made, but I'm back this week with a brand new color. Yellow! This is its first appearance in the quilt and I definitely like it paired with the blue. (It's crazy how many blue scraps I have. . .) Ready to
- [What Will You Learn in the New Craftsy Class? Part 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/06/will-learn-new-craftsy-class-part-2.html) - I've been sharing little peeks of what to expect from the new Craftsy class on Facebook and Instagram and then gathering them all up every week here on the blog. There are so many fun things in this one class! You can read the first round up here. Googly eyes, scrappy pieced backgrounds, silly eyelids, a kajillion
- [Free Pattern - Five Stones Game](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/free-pattern-five-stones-game.html) - You can find the rules a lot of places online but I like this video. Actually seeing the play makes it easier to understand. It takes practice to get really good! Have fun! Best,Wendi
- [How to sew on a button](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/how-to-sew-on-a-button.html) - Sewing on a button is a super-cute (and easy) decoration that you can add to your doll. Check out this adorable button on Mia's shoe!Attaching a button isn't hard! Types of buttons Buttons come in all different shapes and sizes... You can even find shaped buttons (like a little duck or fruits)! Use your imagination
- [Free Pattern: crocheted square washcloth!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/06/free-pattern-crocheted-square-washcloth.html) - Who doesn't love crocheted washcloths? This pattern is worked in the round, so you can make the washcloth as large as you'd like without too much advance planning! You'll need: yarn Cotton works best, I've used a worsted weight yarn to make the washcloths pictured a hook Use the hook size recommended on the yarn's
- [Tutorial: Tie-dye amazing rainbow yarn!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/tutorial-how-to-tie-dye-rainbow-gradient-yarn.html) - You remember tie-dye, right? The dye that you used to make funky-colored t-shirts when you were a kid? Would you believe that you can use tie-dye to create amazing yarn? It's true! In this post, I'll show you how to use Tulip Tie-Dye to create a uniquely-dyed rainbow yarn! Materials You'll Need You only need
- [Stuffed Animals: From Concept to Construction](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/stuffed-animals-concept-construction.html) - Look at those big puppy feet![/caption] Or this? Seriously. This is the reference book on sewing stuffed animals. I've read (and I own) a lot of them and this is THE BEST. Buy it. You'll use it over and over again for years of softie-making joy. Happy sewing! (For Stacey's review of the same awesome
- [Meet Hadley the Horse/Zebra/Unicorn :-)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/meet-hadley-horsezebraunicorn.html) - Yesterday I reviewed a fabulous new book by Abby Glassenberg. Today I'm sharing her newest softie pattern with you. Do you have three children or grandchildren? Make all three versions of this one pattern! Or just do it because it's fun. :-) I think I'm going to make myself a blue horse in honor of
- [Block 5 in the Controlled Chaos Scrappy Quilt-Along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/block-5-controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt.html) - I have to be away from my studio all next week, so we'll be taking a week off of Controlled Chaos. But check in tomorrow for a new video! This one shows how I match seams to sew the blocks together when I've pressed the seams open. Click here for all the Controlled Chaos posts. Happy piecing!
- [How to use 9" circular needles for any pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/06/how-to-use-9-circular-needles-for-any-pattern.html) - You know I love my 9" circular needles. I think they're the easiest way to knit socks and sleeves. But, because they're fairly new, there aren't a lot of patterns written specifically for the 9 inch needle. I'm often asked how to translate your favorite sock pattern into one that can be used on a
- [What's Going to Be in the New Craftsy Class?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/06/whats-going-new-craftsy-class.html) - Of course, you'll learn the basics of Quilt As You Go and applique with fusible adhesive. . . . . . and we even have a lesson on making pieced QAYG background blocks from scraps. We talk about choosing fabrics and I show two different no-fuss-no-measure techniques for making your blocks. I love this grumpy
- [What does 'sc in 2nd ch from hook' mean?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/what-does-sc-in-2nd-ch-from-hook-mean.html) - Hi everyone! Welcome to another Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to talk about an instruction that is common in crochet, but only pops up once in a while when making amigurumi. Tiffany emailed and asked: [The pattern said] "Ch 11. [next row]: turn, sc twice in 2nd ch from hook..." I was just a tiny
- [What does that number on the yarn label mean?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/yarn-weight-system-number-on-the-yarn-label-mean.html) - Have you been looking at a yarn label/website and seen a mysterious number inside of a cartoon ball of yarn? Like this one: What does that number mean? That number (which ranges from 0 to 6) is an indication of the thickness of the yarn. In our example above, the '4' would indicate that the
- [How to make a stuffed animal from a recycled sweater](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/how-to-make-a-stuffed-animal-from-a-recycled-sweater.html) - This week, I sewed an adorable stuffed animal using a recycled sweater! It's not hard, I'll show you how! Gather your materials You'll need: A sewing pattern (I'm using Abby Glassenberg's Pete, free pattern!) An old sweater that's mostly wool Any other odds & ends the pattern calls for (in my case, craft eyes, thread,
- [Video - How to Chain Piece Quilt Blocks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/video-how-to-chain-piece-quilt-blocks.html) - In this video I show you how to chain piece quilt blocks for speedy piecing. This is a really common technique in the quilt world, so I know a lot of you will be familiar with it already. If it's new to you - prepare for your world to be rocked. Seriously. It's just amazing
- [Controlled Chaos Quilt Block #4](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/controlled-chaos-quilt-block-4.html) - A Word About Randomness It's really HARD to be random when you're sewing blocks together. The inclination is always to put two fabrics together that look good together, but if you do that you'll have two things happen. . . It will take longer to make your quilt because you're making decisions with every single
- [Video - How to Cut Small Squares from Scraps](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/video-how-to-cut-small-squares-from-scraps.html) - I think everyone has a favorite method for cutting small squares from scraps. In this video I share the two methods (and tools) that I use - depending on the size and shape of the scraps I'm cutting. Of course, you can use these methods for any size squares. Right now I'm working on the
- [Show & Tell Time!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/05/show-tell-time-10.html) - It's Show & tell Time again! And today I'm sharing some AMAZING quilts that Shiny Happy People have been making. :-) On Safari Diane made a beautiful version of the Safari Quilt. Karrie writes. . . Here is my cat quilt with a minky back. Second quilt ever & your tutorials gave me confidence to do
- [Children's Day in Japan!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/childrens-day-japan.html) - Today is Children's Day in Japan! That means families have been flying koinobori (carp flags) outside their homes and businesses for the last month. This is a beautiful tradition that greeted us when my family arrived in Japan for a month-long visit several years ago. What an amazing experience that was! On Friday I released
- [How to overdye yarn!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/how-to-overdye-yarn-tutorial.html) - Admit it. You have a skein of yarn in your stash that isn't your favorite color. You might not even be sure how it got there... What's a girl to do? Overdye it! How to Overdye I'm a huge fan of Kool-Aid Dyeing yarn, but when you're trying to cover up an existing color... Kool-Aid
- [Designing a Banana Slug: a peek into the process](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/designing-a-banana-slug-a-peek-into-the-process.html) - Right now, I'm in Santa Cruz, CA... tagging along with the hubby who has a conference to attend at the University of California, Santa Cruz. In case you didn't know, the UCSC mascot is a banana slug: It's not a fierce mascot, but a darn cute one. I, personally, am a lover of snails and
- [Crochet Ripple Afghan](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/crochet-ripple-afghan.html) - Have I shown you the beautiful afghan that my mom made Maddie? I just love it! It's in my favorite colors! She used Knit Picks (either Brava or Comfy Worsted... I can't tell because it looks like the aqua color has been discontinued!) and a size I hook. I bought her a Caspian Crochet hook
- [How do you know if a design is original? Follow your gut!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/original-knitting-crochet-design-copyright.html) - Especially after last week's Wingspan debacle, there have been a lot of questions about originality and copyright. How can you tell if your new design is 'different enough' from someone else's? This is a really tricky question, and frankly, I'm not going to talk about the legal side at all, because I'm not qualified to
- [How do I rotary cut extra wide fabric?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/ask-wendi-rotary-cutting-wide-fabric.html) - A couple of months ago I made a video about cutting fabric with rotary cutting tools. I got an excellent question from an anonymous commenter. . . Hi, I bought fabric for quilting and it is 51 inches selvage to selvage folded.....my question is how do I cut that? Neither my cutting mat or my
- [What do you call...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/what-is-yarn-barf.html) - ... that big, unwieldy mess of yarn that virtually spills out of the middle of your skein? There. Now you know. I promise that I'm not making this stuff up. Mike the Leprechaun wants to wish you a very Happy St. Patrick's Day! Since I'm away at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival, I won't
- [How to Crochet an Amigurumi Wizard!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/how-to-crochet-an-amigurumi-wizard.html) - You're in for a treat, today! Chloe has become quite a celebrity because of her beautiful crocheting! She never ceases to post amazing project photos and animals in creative poses! Today, Chloe is sharing with us how to transform a Forrest the gnome into a wizard! How cool is that? And, you'll definitely want to check
- [It's a Scrap-a-long... join us!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/its-a-scrap-a-long-join-us.html) - I'm so excited about this month's Crochet-a-long! The more you knit/crochet, the more you wind up with little leftover bits of yarn. It would be a pity to throw them away, but what do you do with them? That's why we're having a scrap-a-long! Go ahead... make any FreshStitches Pattern... but you have to crochet
- [Joining Quilt Blocks and Nesting the Seams - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/video-joining-quilt-blocks-and-nesting-the-seams.html) - Want to learn how to make a quilt with an easy online workshop - totally free? Sign up for Let's Make a Quilt here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, and how to make a quilt from start to finish using Quilt As You Go and applique with fusible adhesive.
- [Bertie Bunny - a cuddly bunny pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/bertie-bunny-cuddly-bunny-pattern.html) - There's a new bunny pattern in the shop - and look at his adorable kissable toes! Get the Bertie Bunny pattern here. Happy sewing! Best, Wendi
- [What is a steel crochet hook?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/what-is-a-steel-crochet-hook.html) - This post contains affiliate links. That means I make a little commission if you buy something after clicking through. All affiliate links are marked with an *. You've probably heard someone mention a 'steel crochet hook'. Are you a bit confused about what that means? Fear not! I'll help you out! Steel Crochet Hooks 'steel'
- [Show & Tell Time!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/show-tell-time-9.html) - Last week's Show & Tell post was all about quilts. This week I'm sharing the amazing stuffed animals you all have been making! A Warren Mobile! Let's start with this incredible mobile Tess made! She posted complete instructions on her blog so you can make one too! Look at the details she added to the
- [How to string seed beads quickly and easily!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/how-to-string-seed-beads-quickly-and-easily.html) - It's a new Coffee with Stacey! I got a really fun new toy: the Darice Bead Spinner*, which promises to speed up the stringing of seed beads. I string a lot of beads for bead crocheting, so I just had to give it a try! Watch the video to see me using it in action,
- [Make Your Amigurumi Faces Kawaii!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/make-your-amigurumi-faces-kawaii.html) - This post contains affiliate links. That means I make a little commission if you buy something after clicking through. All affiliate links are marked with an *. Kawaii means 'cute' in Japanese, and when it comes to amigurumi... there's a lot in the face! (You might be interested in reading about what amigurumi means!) I
- [How to crochet the 2nd round in amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/how-to-crochet-the-2nd-round-in-amigurumi.html) - Today, I'm going to talk about how to crochet the second round of your amigurumi! You see, I spend a lot of time talking about how to start off with the first round. Whether it's using the magic ring method or the sloppy slip knot... the first round gets all the attention! And then, Jen
- [Zoom Loom Review](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/zoom-loom-review-and-coupon.html) - I knit. I crochet. I spin. I've tatted. I've tried almost every needlecraft I've ever heard of... except for weaving. Why the gap in my fiber experience? I've always thought weaving was a little bit scary. There's a warp, a weft and a lot of technique. It all seemed really complicated. And looms are usually
- [Learn to Applique! Student Reviews of My Craftsy Class](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/learn-to-applique-fusible-applique-made-easy.html) - I love this quilt that gorillamama made. She added the moose, Buzz and the butterfly (three free applique patterns) and the mouse from the Noisy Farm quilt. I love it when people mix and match like that! She writes. . . Best. Class. Ever! Learned so much, had tons of fun, and ended up with a project
- [Free Pattern: Persephone slouchy beret](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/03/free-pattern-persephone-slouchy-beret.html) - This slouchy beret is deceptively simple to knit, and makes use of one color-changing yarn and one complimentary solid color to create a gorgeous design. In this sample, I used handspun yarn as the colorful yarn, but any number of commercial yarns would look wonderful, including: Noro Silk Garden, Crystal Palace's Mochi Plus or Noro
- [Using Buttons for Eyes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/using-buttons-for-eyes.html) - . . . but if you sew it on with your threads in an X it can make it look like your softie is dead. I especially like using 2-hole buttons, because you can use the orientation of the holes to add some expression to the face. These two Blockheads have the holes in their
- [A little help assembling amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/a-little-help-assembling-amigurumi.html) - Today is another 'Tip Tuesday'! Today, I'm going to share a little tip that helps me when I'm assembling tricky amigurumi pieces (although, you could use this when you're seaming anything small)! I use locking stitch markers to hold my pieces in place! I've already talked about using locking stitch markers to help you keep
- [Meet the biggest owl in town!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/meet-the-biggest-owl-in-town.html) - Uh, oh. Maybe my title is too bold of a claim. Maybe there's a bigger owl in town... But this guy is definitely the biggest owl in my house. And probably on my block. Check him out: He's 12" tall and can hold his own in a super-cute kiddie chair: And he's huggable! I used
- [Interview with Heidi Bears!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/interview-with-heidi-bears.html) - If you've been on Ravelry or Pinterest, you've probably seen Heidi Bears's gorgeous stuffed animals! She creates totally unique designs using the African Flower Motif. I've been a fan and I'm thrilled that Heidi agreed to come over and have a chat with us! Hippo by Ravelry user, MissWorld Interview Stacey: I have to say,
- [Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes Recipe](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/peanut-butter-jelly-cupcakes-recipe.html)
- [Video Tutorial: English Paper Piecing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/video-tutorial-english-paper-piecing.html) - I'm obsessed with English Paper Piecing (EPP). And because I want to you to share in the love of this awesome craft, I've put together two video tutorials so you can learn to do it too! Watch them and then start stitching! You'll probably end up addicted to these little hexagon-shaped fabric pieces of candy...
- [My Favorite Online Crochet Classes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/my-favorite-online-crochet-classes.html) - I chose the class Crocheting in the Round: Mix & Match Hats* because it's on the Craftsy* platform - which I love - and is taught by Stacey Trock. I've watched some of her videos on FreshStitches and I knew she was a good teacher. :-) This was a terrific class! Not only did Stacey teach
- [QuiltCon 2017](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/quiltcon-2017.html) - Look closer! Most of the quilt is quilted so densely that it makes the less-quilted parts really stand out. Just awesome! Michael Miller makes the fabrics I used in my two newest fabric bundles - Box of Crayons and Dots. And here's my favorite purchase. The fabrics are hand-dyed batiks from Malka Dubrawsky and the
- [Free Pattern - Make a Gizmo Cozy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/free-pattern-make-a-gizmo-cozy.html) - Keep your electronic gizmos from getting scratched up - and also keep them warm and cozy (and cute!) with a super-easy felt cozy. In this free pattern I teach you how to measure and fit any device - so you can make cozies for your MP3 players, your cell phone, your tablet, your e-reader -
- [Crocheting in Rounds: free download](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/crochet-roundsgranny-square-patter-free-tutorial-download.html) - Download the pdf version of the guide by clicking here.What can you actually do with these patterns? Lots! Here are a few ideas: Crochet a hat. Make a circle, and continue increasing until the circumference of the circle is about the circumference of your head. Work plain rounds until it's long enough to be a
- [Pattern Review - Wee Princess Pea: A Purse-Sized Fairy Tale Playset](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/pattern-review-wee-princess-pea-purse-sized-fairy-tale-playset.html) - Want to make your own? You can get the pattern here.* And take a look at everything else in Larissa's shop* while you're at it. In addition to adorable playsets, she also designs lovely felt pieces, super-cute dolls and softies, and a stunning 12 days of Christmas felt ornament pattern collection. Happy sewing! Best, Wendi
- [Tips for Getting Back to Knitting after an Injury](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/tips-for-getting-back-to-knitting-after-an-injury.html) - Do you remember when I severely cut my thumb? Three months later, I still only have partial sensation on my right thumb. And I'm right handed. The doctor told me that it might take a full year for the nerves to completely heal. But you won't catch me complaining... it could have been much worse.
- [How to knit anything with STRIPES!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/how-to-knit-anything-with-stripes.html) - I am completely in love with rainbow yarn! I love rainbows. I want to knit everything in rainbows. But I've been asked... what pattern do you use? I'm not seeing a lot of patterns with stripes! Well, let me tell you: you can knit almost any pattern in stripes! I'm going to share my tips
- [Easter Crafts You Can Make - Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/easter-crafts-you-can-make-sewing-quilting-embroidery-patterns.html) - Easter is early this year - March 27 - so it's time to start thinking about your Easter Crafts. What do you want to make? I could just link to the Easter section of my shop - but then you wouldn't see all the fun free patterns that are available! (And there are a lot
- [Mosman Needlecraft: Sydney, NSW, Australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/yarn-store-mosman-needlecraft-sydney-nsw-australia.html) - store: Mosman Needlecraft address: Shop 3, 529 Military Road, Mosman, NSW 2088 Australia website: www.mosmanneedlecraft.com.au/ date of visit: January, 2012 If you've read my previous posts about Australian yarn stores, you have probably heard me lament that they aren't quite the same as American yarn stores. A typical Aussie 'wool shop' (and trust me, relatives
- [Oatmeal Bath Scrub - Heal Your Itchy Winter Skin](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/tutorial-how-to-make-an-oatmeal-scrubbie.html)
- [How to get an even stitch and gauge in crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/crochet-gauge-even-stitches.html) - Happy Tip Tuesday! Today, I'm going to share my trick with you for getting a lovely, even gauge when you crochet. Grab your yarn and hook, and follow along! Step 1: Make sure your loop is on the shaft of the hook. This is where the hook size is measured, so it's where you'll want
- [Spreading the Love of Crochet Design](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/spreading-the-love-of-crochet-design.html) - I teach people to crochet. More specifically, I'm very keen on teaching folks how to crochet adorable stuffed animals. I also teach crocheters how to create their own stuffed animal designs. This last aspect of my chosen career has raised some eyebrows. I've been asked, "Aren't you diluting your brand by teaching others to crochet
- [Felt! For sale in the shop and a video showing some great products to use with it](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/felt-for-sale-in-the-shop-and-a-video-showing-some-great-products-to-use-with-it.html) - I love working with wool blend felt - and I'm going to be doing more of it this year so I finally started carrying it in the shop. Lovely, luscious wool blend felt in 48 gorgeous colors! It feels so nice in the hands, it embroiders beautifully, and it's so nice for hand sewing small
- [Tips for Starting a Craft Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/tips-for-starting-a-craft-club.html) - Today's guest post is written by Tammy Powley, crocheter and blogger at The Crafty Princess Diaries. Tammy leads a craft club at her local school, and she's been sweet enough to stop by today and share her tips! This post contains some great tips and also a list of charities that you can consider contacting
- [A Peek Behind the Scenes at My Product Photography Set-Up](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/shoot-photos-peek-scenes-photography-set-up.html) - Here's what it looks like from above. Look at the amount of light inside the box, compared to the light outside the box. It's amazing what just two white surfaces can do! Sometimes I'll box in that third side too (I just prop up another sheet of foam core) but usually it doesn't need it.
- [Book Review - Stitch Love: Sweet Creatures Big & Small](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/02/book-review-stitch-love-sweet-creatures-big-small.html) - What a cutie, eh? I've got a tutorial here showing how to enlarge or reduce any digital pattern, and one here showing how to use an embroidery pattern for applique. So if you get this book you not only get 25 sewing patterns and over 100 embroidery patterns, you also get a ton of applique
- [How to Stuff a Pillow or Softie - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/how-to-stuff-a-pillow-or-softie.html) - Stuffing a softie is a little more involved than you would think. It often takes me as long to stuff a softie as it took me to sew it! It's not hard to do it right - it just takes some patience. And a TON of stuffing. Seriously! The number one problem I see with
- [Lessons on how to wear a long scarf](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/lessons-on-how-to-wear-a-long-scarf.html) - As you may know, I've spent this weekend at the Pittsburgh Knit and Crochet Festival... and I've been having a great time. I've learned a lot... but do you want to hear the most exciting thing I've learned all weekend? I learned a super-awesome new way to wear a long scarf! If you're like me
- [What does the number in parentheses mean in a crochet pattern?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/what-does-the-number-in-parentheses-mean-in-a-crochet-pattern.html) - Have you ever looked at a crochet (or knitting) pattern and wonder what those numbers at the end of the line are? Those numbers are the stitch count for that line of the pattern... in other words, how many stitches you should have in that row/round (6 stitches in the above example). Sometimes a pattern
- [How to Machine Applique Inside Points - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/new-video-how-to-machine-applique-part-2.html)
- [Do you need sharp-tipped knitting needles?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/advantages-of-sharp-tipped-knitting-needles.html) - I'll level with you. I don't like sharp-tipped knitting needles. Do you know why? I'm a pusher: That means that I push on the tip of the needle as part of executing my knitting stitch. A sharp tip means a major ouchie. But, even I'll admit: there are times when you need a sharp-tipped knitting
- [How to Macrame - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/video-how-to-macrame.html)
- [Zen Stitching - How to Embroider a Mandala with No Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/zen-stitching-embroider-mandala-pattern.html) - What do you think? Anyone else want to try this kind of stitching? Do you want more info or to see more sample ideas? I'd love to share! I hope you liked this tutorial. Want more? Sign up for the Shiny Happy News! I'll keep you up to date about all the new tutorials here
- [Made with Love? Or Made with Stress, Swearing and Sweat?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/02/love-stress-swearing-sweat.html) - The next time you're making something - a quilt, a stuffed animal, a dress - and you're stressing out about a place where your seams don't line up, or a little pucker in the sewing, or eyes that aren't exactly level, stop. Stop and take a deep breath. Remember why you're making what you're making.
- [What's Inside My Handwork Bag?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/02/whats-inside-my-handwork-bag.html) - Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop - totally free? Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work. If you already know the
- [Norah Gaughan's Knitted Cable Sourcebook: Review](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/02/norah-gaughans-knitted-cable-sourcebook-review.html) - This book. Norah Gaughan's Knitted Cable Sourcebook. Drool. I saw it. And I bought it. I don't buy a lot of craft books. (Seriously, all of my books fit on one shelf!) But I bought this one and love it. And I added my old cable stitch dictionary to my 'Spring Cleaning' pile. Because I
- [Morris and Sons: Sydney, NSW, Australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/02/morris-and-sons-sydney-nsw-australia.html) - store: Morris and Sons (formerly Tapestry Craft) address: 50 York St, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia website: www.morrisandsons.com.au date of visit: January, 2010 This is my last post about the yarn shops I visited in my recent trip to Australia (although, fingers crossed that I'll go back soon!). And, although I don't mean to play
- [How To Make Things (Arms, Legs, Hair, Tentacles) Grow Out of Your Softie](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/how-to-make-things-arms-legs-hair-tentacles-grow-out-of-your-softie.html)
- [When do you need to "true up" fabric?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/ask-wendi-when-do-you-need-to-true-up-fabric.html) - Back in this video about cutting strips using a rotary cutter I showed folks how to "true up" the edge of your fabric. That is - make sure that you're cutting straight strips with the grain of the fabric. Loretta asked. . . This makes sense for when you have a piece of fabric that
- [How to Machine Applique Convex Curves - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/02/new-video-how-to-machine-applique-convex-curves.html) - This is the first in a series of videos teaching a machine applique technique that I used to use for all my applique quilts. In previous videos I showed you how to applique with fusible adhesive and how to do needle-turn applique. This technique is kind of the best of both worlds. It's almost as
- [Zoomigurumi 5 Review + Giveaway!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/02/zoomigurumi-5-review-giveaway.html) - Today I'm reviewing and having a giveaway for Zoomigurumi 5! I'm really excited about this one... keep reading for details on how to enter the giveaway. The Zoomigurumi series is published by the folks at AmigrurumiPatterns.net, which, in my opinion, is the premiere place for amigurumi patterns. The offerings are curated (giggle, I've even had
- [Guide to Crocheting Dog Toys](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/crochet-dog-toys-how-to-tips.html) - For any plush, you can easily add baby-safe crocheted eyes instead of plastic ones. Select a Sturdy Yarn Linen would totally rock, but so would wool or cotton. Nothing too soft (no merino!), because you want it to hold up. Even the gentle-est dog will have the toy in its mouth! You can also look
- [How to Add a Crocheted Edge to Anything - video and PDF](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/how-to-add-a-crocheted-edge-to-anything.html) - Today we're going all out with the fancification you can add to the hem of a simple skirt (or a pillowcase, a hankie, a tea towel - anything with a hem really). Today I bring you my favorite fancy schmancy embellishment - the crocheted scallop edge. Here's what it looks like. I happen to think
- [Joining Strips with a Diagonal Seam](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/joining-strips-diagonal-seam.html) - I almost always use scrappy bindings in my quilts and I get a lot of questions about how I get those diagonal seams. I show the diagonal seam in my video How to Bind a Quilt - but I never actually showed how to do it. Until now. See how easy that is? I use
- [What to Watch While Stitching - an Awesome List of Reader Suggestions](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2019/01/what-to-watch-while-stitching-an-awesome-list-of-reader-suggestions.html) - Last week in the newsletter I asked for reader suggestions for what to watch while I stitch embroidery samples for my new book. The response was AMAZING! And lots of you said you watch while working too so I thought I'd share all the suggestions in one awesome list. I'm adding a star to the
- [How to Use a Seam Ripper - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-use-a-seam-ripper.html)
- [How to Embroider the Hem of a Knit Skirt - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/new-video-how-to-embroider-the-hem-of-a-knit-skirt.html)
- [Do I need to prewash my tea towels?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/ask-wendi-prewashing-tea-towels.html) - Reader Question: Do I have to wash new tea towels before I embroider them? And then should I iron them before I stitch them? I pre-wash everything. Everything. I don't mess around. When I come back from the fabric store, everything I just bought goes straight into the laundry hamper and isn't allowed in my
- [Are crochet hooks allowed on planes?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/crochet-hooks-allowed-planes-travel-tsa-security.html) - This question came up recently, and I since I have a lot to say on the topic (because I travel oodles), I thought it'd make a good blog post! The short answer- in US and Australia The quick and easy answer is "Yes, crochet hooks are allowed as carry-on items in planes in the US,
- [How to count stitches in your first round of amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/how-to-count-stitches-in-your-first-round-of-amigurumi.html) - We're right in the middle of the slug-a-long, so you can guess what I'm crocheting... a slug! Actually, I'm making two. I'm making a yellow one, like the slug pictured in the pattern and I'm also making a giant slug: Yarn: Vickie Howell Sheep(ish) in Magenta, 4 strands held togetherHook: size NSo much fun! How
- [How to Make Half Square Triangle Blocks - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/video-how-to-make-half-square-triangle-blocks.html) - Yesterday I showed you what a half-square triangle block is (and some of the tools you'll use to make them). Today I'm going to show you how to make one. Actually - two, because with this technique you make them two at a time. There are a LOT of different methods for making half-square triangles.
- [Peek Behind the Scenes: My Book Proposal!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/peek-behind-the-scenes-my-book-proposal.html) - My new book, Modern Baby Crochet, was released last week... and I'm so excited about it! The seed of a book is planted when you write a book proposal and submit it to a publishing company. I thought it would be fun to share some of what goes into writing a book proposal... who knows,
- [How to Find Sea Glass](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/how-to-find-sea-glass.html) - Did you know that I collect sea glass? Yup! It's a little hobby of mine that I indulge in whenever I visit a beach. How about I tell you a bit about it? What is Sea Glass? Sea glass is glass that has been tumbled around in sale water until it's smooth and frosted (wikipedia
- [Rainbow Star Afghan!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/rainbow-star-afghan.html) - I have something very exciting to show you... I finished my Rainbow Star Afghan! I just love how it turned out! You know I'm a sucker for rainbows! I'm planning on writing a little tutorial on the color changes sometime in the future... but you know, time is a little sparse right now! I couldn't
- [Wrist Exercises for Knitters and Crocheters](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/wrist-exercises-knitters-crocheters-easy.html) - If you knit/crochet a lot (or embroider!) . . . chances are you suffer from some achy wrists! I know that during last week, when I was crocheting up a storm, I certainly did! Here are a few exercises that I do to relieve my sore wrists. Try to give these a whirl every hour
- [How to Turn a Hem - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-turn-a-hem.html) - You're the master of the straight line now, right? Well, now you get to practice it a little more. In this video you'll learn how to turn a hem and stitch it in place. This is a basic, double-turned hem on a straight edge - used for casual clothing and lots of craft projects. There
- [Free Puppet Theater Pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/free-puppet-theater-pattern.html) - Can you sew a hem? Yes? Then you can make this easy doorway puppet theater. No? Then you're about to learn - the pattern has links to videos teaching you all the skills you'll need so you can make it. Download the FREE pattern here. It hangs in any doorway so there's plenty of room
- [How to Add Ruffles to a T-shirt Skirt - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/01/video-how-to-add-ruffles-to-a-t-shirt-skirt.html) - I added just one demure little ruffle to the hem of this skirt for me. Jo wanted two rows on her skirt. This is SO easy - and a great way to use up those last few scraps from turning a T-shirt into a skirt. Here's the video showing how. Happy sewing! Best, Wendi
- [Join the slug-a-long!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/join-the-slug-a-long.html) - I know you've been gearing up for the next crochet-a-long! This one's a... slug-a-long! That's right! This month, we're crocheting Hannah the Slug. She's a great pattern for those of you who have conquered your first amigurumi, and are looking for a fun project where you'll learn something new, but isn't too difficult. Isn't she
- [Tips for Organizing a Charity Craft Fair](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/01/tips-for-organizing-a-charity-craft-fair.html) - There are a lot of charities in the world doing really amazing work. I've written about how to donate stuffed animals, but frankly, most charities benefit from donations of cash. Large organizations are typically more efficient with cash, not only because they are able to better use the resources (for example, a charity that helps
- [Sew and Tell: Berry, New South Wales, Australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/01/sew-and-tell-berry-new-south-wales-australia.html) - store: Sew and Tell address: Shop 2, 133 Queen Street, Berry, New South Wales, Australia website: N/A date of visit: December, 2009 Like many other yarn stores in Australia, Sew and Tell sells many things other than yarn, including materials for sewing, needle felting, cross stitch and needle point. Even though the yarn collection takes
- [House of Wool, Blackheath, NSW, Australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/house-of-wool-blackheath-nsw-australia.html) - store: House of Wool address: 40 Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath, NSW. Australia. website: www.facebook.com/TheHouseofWool/ date of visit: December, 2012 I love traveling, and I love visiting yarn shops. It's probably no surprise to you that I like to do both things at the same time! I was delighted to hear about a new yarn shop,
- [How to hand wash socks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/how-to-hand-wash-knitted-wool-socks.html) - Most of my winter socks are ones that I've knit myself. Many of them require hand-washing. It's not hard... I'll show you how. But first, let's tackle some basic sock care questions and I'll give you a little advice. Sock Care FAQs Do I really have to hand wash my socks? Check the label of
- [How I Store and Organize My Fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/store-organize-fabric.html) - I used to have twice this space devoted to scraps. Now it's just these three bins, sorted by color. I have one for warm colors, one for cool colors, and one for neutrals. I went on a bit of a scrap quilt binge last year and realized the six bins I was using had enough scraps
- [Pins and Needles](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/pins-needles.html) - This week I'm on vacation. While I'm gone I'm showing off my new super-tidy sewing room, and sharing my solutions to some common craft supply storage challenges. On Tuesday I shared how I store and organize all my favorite sewing tools. On Wednesday I showed you my embroidery thread. Yesterday I showed how I store all my fabric
- [How To Sew Without a Machine - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/01/how-to-sew-without-a-machine.html)
- [Pledge to Ten (minutes, that is...)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/pledge-to-reach-crochet-goals-easy-worksheet.html) - We all know that most New Year's Resolutions fail. Do you know why? They're too grand... too lofty. And they often seem impossible. So here's what we're going to do: we're going to set a practical crochet goal, and dedicate 10 minutes a day to reaching it. You have ten minutes a day, right? And
- [Free downloadable tags for your amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/01/free-downloadable-tags-for-your-amigurumi.html) - My free holiday gift tags were such a hit that I've made some more! For your downloading and printing pleasure, I introduce to you... the amigurumi tag collection! Making some amigurumi? You'll want to download these adorable tags! I designed these tags specifically for your cutie stuffed animals... and even included a few tips for
- [The Yarn Barn: Lawrence, KS](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/12/the-yarn-barn-lawrence-ks.html) - store: The Yarn Barn address: 930 Massachusetts Street Lawrence, KS 66044 website: www.yarnbarn-ks.com/ date of visit: November, 2009 Let me begin by saying that even if the Yarn Barn were in the middle of nowhere, it would be worth the drive to visit. But, it's in Lawrence, KS, which is (in my opinion) an adorable
- [Australia allows knitting needles in carry-on luggage!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/12/australia-allows-knitting-needles-in-carry-on-luggage.html) - Exciting news! The Australian government now allows knitting needles and crochet hooks in carry-on luggage, as of December 25, 2009! If you haven't been keeping up to date, here's a brief history. The US has allowed knitting needles and crochet hooks on the airplane for some time (although there have been some horror stories online
- [Pattern Cutting Basics - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/pattern-cutting-basics.html) - Like this one. :-) Here's the video. . . So there you are - a simple introduction to pattern cutting. If you want to get just a tiny bit more advanced, check out this post about fabric grain. Happy sewing! Best, Wendi
- [Options for single crocheting in a chain](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/options-for-single-crocheting-in-a-chain.html) - "Sc in each ch" is an instruction you'll often see in a written pattern. But exactly how do you crochet into a chain? It's a great question, because there are actually two different options for crocheting into your chain stitches. I'll show you both options and compare the finished look! Meet your chain When you
- [Why I love the US Postal Service](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/12/why-i-love-the-us-postal-service.html) - Can I tell you something? When I hear folks complaining about the USPS, it makes me a little sad. Because I adore the postal service. The US postal service provides an amazing service and isn't in as much financial trouble as the rumors report. My postal carrier delivers mail to my doorstep 6 days a
- [How to Add an Opening for Dolls with Wagging Tails](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/how-to-add-an-opening-for-dolls-with-wagging-tails.html) - If you're making Pip the Cat, Squeak the Mouse, or Spot the Dog this is a method you can use to adapt any of the clothing patterns to fit their tails. Have fun with it! Happy stitching! Best, Wendi
- [How To Choose Fabric - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/how-to-choose-fabric.html) - You've got your machine and all your tools and you're ready for the fun part - picking out the fabric. Woo hoo! What you might not know is that some fabrics are a dream to work with - and some are a nightmare. This video gives you some tips on how to choose fabric for a
- [What does 'amigurumi' mean?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/what-does-amigurumi-mean.html) - Today's guest post is written by Alyssa, MonstersToyBox on Ravelry. Alyssa is a student in Linguistics and Japanese, as well as a very talented knitter and crocheter. Who better to tell us what 'amigurumi' means? What does the word 'amigurumi' mean? You probably know that amigurumi are incredible cute toys made from yarn. And you
- [How to fix an incorrectly-attached amigurumi part](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/how-to-fix-amigurumi-crochet-incorrect-help.html) - It's inevitable. We all make mistakes. Maybe you attached a part on your amigurumi in the wrong place. Maybe you crocheted the piece in the wrong color. No problem! I'll show you how to fix it! In the example I'll be showing you today, I attached an orange beak on my owl... when the customer
- [Tips for Teaching Kids to Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/tips-for-teaching-kids-to-crochet.html) - It's a question I get asked quite often: "Is my child ready to learn to crochet?" Of course, children develop skills at different ages, so you'll need to pay attention to your child's skill set, instead of waiting for them to 'hit the perfect age'. Today, I'll chat about some tips for teaching children to
- [Gifts for Kids Who Love to (or Want to Learn to) Sew](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/12/gifts-kids-love-or-learn-to-sew.html) - Is your child interested in learning to sew? Or can they already sew and they want to do more? Here are some great gift ideas for them. . . A sewing machine! Here are some tips on choosing one for a beginner. Seam Ripper Every sewist needs at least one. Needles and thread When I
- [Chevron Bead Crochet Necklace](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/chevron-bead-crochet-necklace.html) - Do you want to see what I just finished? It's a bead crochet necklace! I'm super-excited about this one, because it features 2 firsts for me. It's the first time I've followed a pattern in bead crochet, and it's also the first time I've added a glue-on clasp: It's magnetic! Isn't that so cool? And...
- [Free Bulky Hat Pattern + Bulky Rainbow Samplers!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/free-bulky-hat-pattern-bulky-rainbow-samplers.html) - Stitch up a quick and easy rainbow hat using bulky yarn! Free Download: Easy Bulky Hat Pattern I wrote up a quickie pattern for you that shows off the wonderful texture and colors in this yarn! It's a free pattern, and you can download the pdf, here. You can knit the entire hat with
- [Quilting the Controlled Chaos Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/quilting-the-controlled-chaos-quilt.html) - I've been having so much fun quilting the Controlled Chaos scrap quilt. :-) I'm doing some big stitch quilting and I love the way it looks and the texture it adds! I've got a series of hand quilting videos. basic hand quilting quilting without marking big stitch quilting (what I'm doing for this quilt and
- [Children's Books with Knitting (and Yarn!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/12/childrens-books-with-knitting-and-yarn.html) - It's gift-giving time! And I LOVE giving books as presents! So I've compiled a list of Children's books that contain knitting (or spinning or weaving or yarn... but it's mostly knitting)! Not all of these books is about knitting, but yarn gets either a mention or an illustrated appearance! Some of these we already own...
- [Basic Sewing Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/12/basic-sewing-tools.html) - If you're a beginning sewer there are a few basic sewing supplies you'll need to invest in. You'll add more later as you learn more advanced techniques - but these are all you need to get started. All of these links go to online sources - but all of these should be easy to find at any fabric
- [How to Use Poly Pellets in Amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/12/how-to-use-poly-pellets-in-amigurumi.html) - Have you ever picked up a stuffed animal with a nice, weighty feel? Ever wondered how to achieve that feel in your handmade animals? Use Poly Pellets! Poly Pellets are small plastic-y beads that can be used to weight your stuffed animals. Today, I'll tell you how to use them effectively. How to use Poly
- [Don't be THIS kind of gift-giver...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/dont-be-this-kind-of-gift-giver.html) - A chat about gift-giving The holidays are super-busy and stressful. All that shopping! All that traveling! And a lot of us crafters feel the added pressure of making handmade gifts for those that we love. I know this is going to be a controversial post... but I'm going to encourage you to think twice before
- [Tutorial: How to Attach Perfectly Positioned Buttons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/tutorial-how-to-attach-perfectly-positioned-buttons.html) - Okay, so you've gone through all of that work to knit or crochet a sweater... and now it's time to attach the buttons. How do you make sure you sew on the buttons in exactly the right spot? I'll show you how! All you need is one locking stitch marker. First, close your sweater so
- [Use Stretchy Knit Fabric to Make Extra Soft Stuffed Animals](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/12/use-stretchy-knit-fabric-to-make-extra-soft-stuffed-animals.html) - Did you know that you can use stretchy knit fabric to make extra cuddly and soft stuffed animals? You can! And even though sewing with knits has a bad reputation - it's really not any harder than sewing with woven fabrics. Cloud 9 Fabrics - makers of all-gorgeous, all-organic fabric - recently released a line
- [Free printable gift tags!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/11/free-printable-gift-tags.html) - The holidays are fast approaching... and what better way to top off your handmade creations than with a cute gift tag? I've made four adorable gift tags for you to print that would go perfectly on your amigurumi, or anything else handmade! To grab these gift tags, just right-click the image above and "save as".
- [How to organize scraps of yarn](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/how-to-organize-scraps-of-yarn.html) - After you knit or crochet your first project, you're immediately faced with an organizational problem: weird bits of leftover yarn. The more projects you do, the more these scraps build up. And, if you don't organize your scraps well, they have a habit of tangling themselves together into one giant knot. Not good. So, even
- [5 reasons to love your LYS](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/reasons-love-your-lys-yarn-store-shopping.html) - "I can order it online for cheaper" Yup. It's true. In the internet age, where everything is available online for a discount, some people are wondering why it's worth shopping at a local yarn store (LYS). My suspicion is that many people feel this way because they haven't yet discovered what an LYS truly offers.
- [Secrets of Sensational Softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/secrets-sensational-softies.html) - I would dearly love to find a source for the fabric Jellycat uses in their Cordy Roys collection![/caption] Polar fleece and minky fabrics are usually as close as home sewists can come - and it's just not the same. But I found a source! When I was at Quilt Market last spring I met with
- [WIP: Star Afghan begins!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/wip-star-afghan-begins.html) - Remember last week when I asked you to vote on my next afghan using these great rainbow colors? I was floored by all of the responses! And while the winner wasn't clear-cut... the star pattern got oodles of votes! The Pattern After looking at lots of star patterns, I was really inspired by stablewoman's version
- [Swell Stockings - FREE Pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/swell-stockings-free-pattern.html) - And here's one with fancier applique (but still easy). You could do the same thing, using one of my appliqued animals quilt block patterns. How about embroidering on a stocking? One of the puppies or kitties would be really cute! So would one of the Rainbow Girls! Or one of the birds from the Bird
- [Review of The Big Book of Knitted Monsters by Rebecca Danger](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/review-of-the-big-book-of-knitted-monsters-by-rebecca-danger.html) - Love knitting cute monsters? Rebecca Danger's Big Book of Knitted Monsters has been on the wish-list of every monster-knitter I know! And for good reason: it's packed full of adorable monster patterns. This book isn't for every knitter out there, so you'll want to skip down to reading my review to see if it's for
- [Neato Ornaments - FREE Pattern!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/neato-ornaments-free-pattern.html)
- [Free Stocking Pattern + Free Ornament Pattern = Fun Handmade Goodness](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/free-stocking-pattern-free-ornament-pattern-fun-handmade-goodness.html)
- [Want to discover a whole new world of patterns? Try reading crochet charts!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/want-to-discover-a-whole-new-world-of-patterns-try-reading-crochet-charts.html) - I adore Japanese craft books. It doesn't matter if the craft is sewing, crocheting, needle felting... you name it and I can guarantee that you'll find a supply of irresistible Japanese books on the topic. Just one example of the crochet fabulous-ness that comes out of Japan.Of course there's a little bit of bad news
- [How to strand yarn in color changes: a video tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/how-to-strand-yarn-in-color-changes-a-video-tutorial.html) - Every Tuesday, I post a helpful tip... and this week, I've been getting a lot of questions about how to handle the unused yarn while crocheting with two colors. (It's funny: you wouldn't think there would be trends in customer questions, but there certainly are!) For today's post, I've made a video showing you how
- [Looking back at one of my biggest FOs: Crocheted Softies!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/looking-back-at-one-of-my-biggest-fos-crocheted-softies.html) - It's Finished Object Friday! As you may have surmised from this week's Work-in-Progress post, I don't have anything finished that I can actually show you... But, do you know what today is? It's the 1 year anniversary of the release of Crocheted Softies! Talk about a big FO! So today, I'm going to take a
- [What is an ergonomic hook? Do you need one?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/what-is-an-ergonomic-crochet-hook-do-you-need-one.html) - Although crocheting is far safer than other hobbies (take jousting, for example), it's not without its dangers. Depending on your crochet style, genetic disposition and lifestyle, crocheting for long stretches of time can result in wrist/hand pain. Ouch. What is an ergonomic hook? An 'ergonomic' crochet hook is a hook that is designed to alleviate
- [An honest talk about charity, donating and the Philippines](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/an-honest-talk-about-charity-donating-and-the-philippines.html) - I was going to show you how I made my monster skirt today... but I've postponed it a little because there's a topic weighing heavily on me that I want to talk about. By most reports, the typhoon that struck the Philippines is the worst tropical storm to make landfall. The death toll is over
- [Book Review: Woodland Knits](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/book-review-woodland-knits.html) - I adore Stephanie Dosen's (aka Tiny Owl Knits) designs. She designs whimsical and fun knitting patterns... so I was really excited to see her book, Woodland Knits. The book contains 21 adorable patterns, 10 of which are new designs for the book. The remaining 11 designs are well-loved favorites, like the deer with antlers hat,
- [Controlled Chaos Block #13 - Scrap Quilt Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/controlled-chaos-block-13-scrap-quilt-tutorial.html) - I still haven't decided whether I'll use sashing between the blocks or not. If I do it will be in a nice slate grey. If I d0 use sashing it'll be 310 seams I don't have to match up - a major plus in my book. :-) Click here for all the Controlled Chaos posts. Happy piecing!
- [A Happy Snowman Felt Ornament Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/11/happy-snowman-felt-ornament-pattern.html)
- [Have you heard about the Red Scarf Project?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/11/red-scarf-project.html) - The Red Scarf Project collects scarves from September 1st - December 15th every year, and then distributes them to a foster student on Valentine's Day. Isn't that sweet? Can you imagine how special you'd feel if a handmade scarf with a sweet note showed up on your door? And what a boost that would give
- [2015 Christmas Collection](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/11/2015-christmas-collection.html) - The 2015 Christmas Collection is finished! All twelve fun and easy felt ornaments. :-) You'll find two options for it in the shop. . . The PDF pattern. All twelve patterns in one 85-page PDF. It has each pattern complete - plus the last few pages have all the pattern pieces for all the ornaments grouped for
- [Homespun Boutique: Yarn store in Ithaca, NY](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/11/homespun-boutique-yarn-store-in-ithaca-ny.html) - store: Homespun Boutique address: 314 E. State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 date of visit: October, 2011 I had no idea what to expect when I visited Homespun Boutique. it's a store with no website or Ravelry listing... which often means it's an outdated yarn store with not so lovely yarns. Fortunately, Homespun Boutique far exceeded
- [Got yarn? How to find a yarn store when you travel!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/got-yarn-how-to-find-a-yarn-store-when-you-travel.html) - As you know, I'm spending this weekend in Minneapolis. What's the first thing I do when planning a trip? Scope out the yarn stores! Today, I'll show you my favorite sites for finding LYSs. In addition to being handy when you travel, you can even use these sites for finding a store near you! Ravelry
- [The making of a finely-crafted crochet hook...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/the-making-of-a-finely-crafted-crochet-hook.html) - So often, I get asked, "how did you start designing?" or "how did you start crocheting?" I've told my story on the blog... so I thought it would be fun to interview another artist about how they came to their calling! I wanted to find someone who did beautiful work, but maybe someone you hadn't
- [Better Photography: creating a seamless white background](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/better-photography-creating-a-seamless-white-background.html) - I'm really excited to be taking part in the Better Photography Blog Hop! I've joined some crafty geniuses: Diane from CraftyPod, Haley from The Zen of Making, Michele from Michele Made Me and Megan from Rad Megan's... and we're each sharing our great photo tips! Scroll down to the end of this post to get
- [How to get started selling at craft fairs](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/11/how-to-get-started-selling-at-craft-fairs.html) - Remember when I chatted about the results of the reader survey? And I even came up with an action plan, based on what you wanted to hear more of. One thing on that plan? Increase the number of posts about the business side of things: from designing to selling your finished items. You got it!
- [Patterns & the sale of finished items, one designer's perspective](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/patterns-the-sale-of-finished-items-one-designers-perspective.html) - I began designing crochet patterns 4 years ago this month (whoa!). Soon after I began selling patterns, I received the question: Oh, dear. I hadn't thought about that! So, I looked online to see what other designers did. The majority of designers did not allow customers to sell the finished items made from their patterns.
- [Knitting Phi: technique for carrying yarn across stripes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/how-to-carry-unused-yarn.html) - Do you want to see what I'm working on? I'm knitting Phi, a fabulously fun garter stitch shawl. The shawl has stripes that can be quite thick, so you need to carry the unused yarn up the side of the thick stripes. I came up with a little technique for how to do this in
- [Ultimate Crochet Hook Review: the review!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/ultimate-crochet-hook-review-the-review.html) - As I said before, there's no such thing as a perfect hook. What works well for one person may be a disaster for someone with a different crocheting style. The best thing that I can do, as a reviewer, is tell you the pluses and pitfalls of various crochet hooks. What you end up loving
- [Tips for storing knitting & crochet projects](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/tips-for-storing-knitting-crochet-projects.html) - Most of us have a couple of knitting or crochet Works-in-Progress going on at one time. For today's Tip Tuesday blog post, I've gathered ideas about different ways to store in-progress works. Store them neatly, and you'll avoid the perils losing your hook or spare yarn associated with the project! I gathered ideas by asking
- [Learn How to Knit a Sock](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/how-to-knit-a-sock.html) - I love knitting socks. And I get a lot of questions about which resources I'd recommend for learning. So, in today's blog post, I'm going to give you a list of my favorite sources! Your First Pair of Socks Do you feel comfortable increasing and decreasing? Have you used double point needles? Great! Then you're
- [Ultimate Crochet Hook Review: hook anatomy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/the-ultimate-crochet-hook-review.html) - Welcome to day one of my Ultimate Crochet Hook Review! I'm so excited to be running this series on my blog. Do you know why? Because there are so many crochet hooks out there, it often feels impossible to choose the right one for you! So, this week, I'm going to talk about the nitty-gritty
- [Ultimate Crochet Hook Review: anatomy in action](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/ultimate-crochet-hook-review-anatomy-in-action.html) - So, yesterday you learned terminology associated with hook anatomy, and have a rough idea of ways in which hooks can differ... but what do all these differences look like in action? What's the difference between a pointy and a rounded point? Let's find out! Finding out how to identify these differences in real-life hooks is
- [Ultimate Crochet Hook Review: Susan Bates controversy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/10/ultimate-crochet-hook-review-susan-bates-change-in-hook-design.html) - A few weeks ago, one event rocked the crochet world. Okay, maybe I'm being a bit dramatic... but when word spread that Susan Bates had changed its hook design, there was a whole lotta chatter about it! Susan Bates (aluminum, size H) has always been my absolute favorite crochet hook. And, not because it's cheap
- [Perpendicular Mattress Stitch (knitting)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/perpendicular-mattress-stitch-knitting.html) - Do you remember when I was knitting this sweater? Well... I've finished! And today, I want to chat about a seaming technique that really helped me out! Perpendicular Mattress Stitch I loved knitting this sweater... the pieces are knit flat, which makes for very speedy knitting. At the end, you need to seam the
- [Giveaway: "Mini Knitted" Book Series + Interview with Sahiyo Ishii](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/10/giveaway-mini-knitted-book-series-interview-with-sahiyo-ishii.html) - I have an amazing opportunity for you today! Search Press (the publisher of the adorable Mini Knitted series) is giving one reader 5 books, including: Mini Knitted Christmas Mini Knitted Woodland Mini Knitted Ocean Mini Knitted Safari Mini Knitted Toys Keep reading for details on how to enter! Sachiyo Ishii is the author of 4
- [The Truth about Knitting Needles on Airplanes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/10/are-knitting-needles-allowed-on-airplane-flights-advice-international-travel.html) - The question I see most often popping up on knitting/crochet discussion forums is: Are knitting needles/crochet hooks allowed on airplanes? There's some helpful advice out there, but also a lot of advice that ranges from weird to just plain wrong. So, let's clear it all up, shall we? Today, I'll talk about (and link to!)
- [Self-Striping Sock Yarn](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/10/self-striping-sock-yarn.html) - If you watched my most recent Coffee with Stacey, you'll know that I absolutely love knitting socks from self-striping yarn. My go-to sock yarn, Knit Picks Felici (shown above), has been discontinued. Self-striping yarn is hard to find... it's difficult to dye and some beautiful ones are stunning but not suitable for socks. So I
- [Monster Pattern Sale - 20% Off](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/10/monster-pattern-sale-20-off.html) - My Cute Quilt-As-You-Go Applique Monsters class includes my Mix & Match Monsters pattern. It's so much fun to make! Get that class here. Happy stitching! Best, Wendi
- [Stacey’s in Knitty!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/09/staceys-in-knitty.html) - I'm very excited to announce that my pattern for an intarsia slouchy beret made it into Knitty! I've been nearly bursting trying to keep the news quiet... but the Deep Fall version of Knitty was released today, so I can spread the news! I really wanted to make a slouchy beret that was an easy
- [The Zen of Quitting](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/how-to-know-time-to-quit.html) - Quitter. Ooooh... it's such an ugly word, isn't it? Who likes to be called a quitter? It makes you feel unworthy... like you're just not good enough, right? How often has the fear of being called a 'quitter' gotten you stuck in a rut? Is it the reason you won't frog that knitting project that
- [How to Sew Easy, Removable Pillow Covers](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/how-to-sew-easy-removable-pillow-covers.html) - Today, I'll show you the super-easy pillow covers I made! This isn't a full step-by-step tutorial, but if you're familiar with the basics of sewing, I think you'll get the idea! I wanted pillow covers that were removable, but I didn't want to put in a zipper or do buttonholes. So, I went for a
- [Book Review: So You Want to be A Knitting Designer...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/how-to-be-a-knitting-designer.html) - Being a knitting/crochet designer is kind of a weird job. Being successful means being part designer, part webmaster, part marketer and part photographer. And you can't go to school for it. (okay, you can go to school to learn to design, but not do all the other stuff!) I learned it through the grapevine... Most
- [This is how I crochet!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/crochet-technique-how-to-hold-hook.html) - Last week, I got a surge of requests from my Ravelry group to post a video of me crocheting. Who am I to say no? So... here it is! (Click on the box in the lower right hand corner of the video to view in full-screen) Click here to view the video on YouTube. When
- [Selecting a scale for yarn use](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/09/selecting-a-scale-for-yarn-use.html) - Last week, I purchased a new postage scale, because my last one went kaput... and I'm very pleased with my new one! So, I thought I would share some features that I considered when purchasing a new scale. You may be asking, why do you need a postage scale for knitting & crocheting? I find
- [Tips and Techniques for felting](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/09/tips-and-techniques-for-felting.html) - One of my newest patterns is Gerry the Felted Bear! We have become quite taken with felting, so in this blog post, we'll review all the important stuff you need to know. But trust me, it's easy! Selecting yarn for a felted project All of our FreshStitches patterns are made using worsted weight yarn. You'll
- [Knit & Needlepoint: Boston, MA](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/09/knit-needlepoint-boston-ma-yarn-store-travel.html) - store: Knit & Needlepoint address: 11 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116 now moved, see update at bottom website: http://www.needlepoint-boston.com date of visit: August, 2010 Knit & Needlepoint is located on Newbury street- the 'high fashion' street of Boston- less than a block away from the Boston Common. It's a long street, so don't despair... as
- [Making and canning tomato sauce... with a food mill!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/09/making-and-canning-tomato-sauce-with-a-food-mill.html) - What do you do with a Saturday in the middle of tomato season? Can some tomato sauce! For today's Craft School Saturday, I'll show you my latest adventures in canning... yielding 7 quarts of yummy pasta sauce! The old-school way of making sauce Every year, I can tomato sauce (which, despite being called 'canning', it
- [Which way should my knitting go?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/which-way-should-my-knitting-go.html) - You put down your knitting in the middle of a row, and then... how can you tell which way you were going? Has this ever happened to you? No worries! I'm here to help. I'll show you how to pick up your knitting and keep going without confusion! For today's blog post, I'm assuming you
- [Tutorial: How to Frame Fabric (quick art!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/09/tutorial-how-to-frame-fabric-quick-art.html) - Happy Saturday! Today I'm going to show you how to make a quick art-piece by framing fabric! My favorite fabric I took a trip to Finland in 2008, and I bought a yard of some amazing fabric from Marimekko. Although I loved the fabric... it gave me anxiety: what should I do with it?
- [How to use Ravelry's Stash Feature](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/09/how-to-use-ravelrys-stash-feature-help-tutorial.html) - This post was originally published 5/21/2012... but 4 years later, this is still some of my best advice! Follow these steps to get your stash organized! You'll also be interested in reading: a plan for organizing your yarn stash How to organize scraps of yarn How to take charge of your unruly scrap pile If
- [Help for sore wrists](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/08/help-for-sore-wrists-knit-crochet-exercises.html) - As knitters and crocheters, we use our hands (and wrists) a lot... and it's not uncommon to read about developing painful wrists as a result of doing needlework. In this post, I want to share a couple of simple moves that I just learned- designed to get the fluid in your wrist joints moving, and
- [Changing colors and stranding yarn in crochet colorwork](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/changing-colors-and-stranding-yarn-in-crochet-colorwork.html) - Crocheting the dragon's tummy This dragon sports a differently colored tummy, which may seem hard, but is actually quite easy once I show you some helpful tips. There are two important pieces to getting a nice looking tummy: Changing colors cleanly so that you have a nice edge along the sides of the tummy. Managing
- [Stranding yarn in color changes in amigurumi, part 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/stranding-yarn-in-color-changes-in-amigurumi-part-2.html) - Look familiar? We'd like those to look a little neater. So, what we're going to do is cut the strands down the center: Now you can see why it was important to make those strands at least 3" long, right? For the next step, we're going to tie together (using a simple square not) each
- [Book Review: The Knitter's Curiosity Cabinet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/knitters-curiosity-cabinet-book-review-hunter-hammersen.html) - I'm no stranger to keeping mementos out around the house. They're pieces that serve as decorations, but also contain little memories... organized in my favorite manner: by color. There's my 'Poppop corner', which contains my Grandfather's magnifying glass, a cancelled check that he wrote and a lovely Wedgewood dish of change that fits the color
- [Choosing color combinations](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/choosing-color-combinations.html) - One of the most exciting parts of starting a project is picking out your yarn colors, right? Even though the pattern shows the item made up in a sample color (or maybe even a range of sample colors), you don't have to follow the pattern! Today, we'll pick out some amazing colors for our dragons
- [How to position the snout on your dragon](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/how-to-position-the-snout-on-your-dragon.html) - One of the trickiest parts of crocheting this dragon is positioning his snout so that it lines up with the color changes on his tummy... since there's a temptation to attach the snout before you've crocheted the color changes on the body. How do you know where to put it? I have three possible solutions...
- [Jo's Finished T-shirt Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/jos-finished-t-shirt-quilt.html) - . . . Minecraft and other video games. . .
- [Bead Crochet, part 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/08/bead-crochet-part-2.html) - Continuing to Practice Bead Crochet Remember a couple weeks ago when I learned bead crochet? I was instantly hooked... so I've kept at it! Last time, I made a very small piece, but not a full piece of jewelry. This week, I stepped up to a bracelet project from Bead Crochet Jewelry... and I'm very
- [Online Tools to Help with Your Colorwork](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/online-tools-to-help-with-your-colorwork.html) - You probably already know that you can add stripes to almost any knit/crochet pattern... and it's a great way to use up leftover yarn! Another fabulous way to use up leftover yarn is to make an afghan using medallions (like a granny square) will all of your extras. But if you're like me, the hardest
- [My Derecho!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/my-derecho.html) - Remember how I frogged my Color Affection and then started Derecho? And kept working on it? Now it's done... and I couldn't be happier! It's beautiful! The lime green yarn from Candy Skein really makes the whole project pop, don't you think? I had such a blast knitting this... and the best part is that
- [Color Theory: Neutrals + Pop of Color!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/color-theory-neutrals-color.html) - You know that I love color. In fact, one of my most popular blog posts is this one where I talk about putting colors together. But maybe you're not into wearing lots of different colors. I have another great color combo for you: a neutral + a pop of color! How to do it My
- [Making a T-Shirt Quilt - Part 1](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/making-t-shirt-quilt-part-1.html) - We're a T-shirt-wearing family. All three of us wear T-shirts all the time - the geekier the better. (Our favorite source for great designs is Tee Fury. They have a new design every day - available for only a day. Fun!) Jo has been saving her outgrown T-shirts for years, with the thought that
- [Making a T-Shirt Quilt - Part 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/making-t-shirt-quilt-part-2.html) - I'm cutting all the images for this quilt with square corners. That's easy if you use clear rulers and rotary cutting tools. You don't have to do it - but it will make for easy framing. For the technique I'm using I'm not measuring at all. Easy peasy! I'm just cutting around the image in a
- [Making a T-shirt Quilt - Part 3](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/08/making-t-shirt-quilt-part-3.html)
- [How to Sew a Zipper in a Seam - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/video-how-to-sew-a-zipper-in-a-seam.html) - I didn't try using zippers for a LONG time because I thought they'd be too hard. Looking back, it's astonishing to me how many things I avoided because I thought they'd be too hard. Seriously - how long did I think I could make clothing without using any closures? And then when I did venture
- [Finding yarn stores in Bermuda](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/08/yarn-store-shop-bermuda.html) - As many of you know, last week, I went on a fabulous cruise to Bermuda! And as with anywhere I travel, I'm on the hunt for yarn stores, with locally-crafted or somehow unique fine yarns as my ultimate goal. I'll skip to the chase: you're not going to find any beautifully-crafted lovely yarn in Bermuda
- [What is Continental Knitting?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/08/continental-knitting.html) - When I'm teaching new knitters, I notice that a lot of them get caught up in the terms for the different styles of knitting. What is continental knitting? What is throwing? And which one is better? Do what's most comfortable When I teach beginning knitters, I don't tell them anything about how to hold the
- [Schaefer Yarns Outlet: Interlaken, NY](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/08/schaefer-yarns-outlet-interlaken-ny.html) - Last month, I was driving up Route 96 in the Finger Lakes region of NY. And guess what I saw by the side of the road? I had heard that Schaefer Yarns had been in the area, but I didn't know that the owner opened an outlet after shutting closing her dyeing business. So... I
- [How to Care for your Craft Scissors](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/how-to-care-for-your-craft-scissors.html) - I have three pairs of scissors: a pair for cutting fabric, a pair for cutting tape and an all-purpose pair (that happen to be child-safe so I can use them for travel). Having different pairs for different craft purposes allows you to keep them in tip-top-shape, and makes your crafting easier! Here are some tips
- [Using Embroidery Patterns for Something Besides Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/using-embroidery-patterns-for-something-besides-embroidery.html) - Jo's been at summer camp for the last two weeks - hopefully loving every minute of it. :-) Last year I sent her cards made from my embroidery and applique patterns (see them here and here, and watch a video showing how to stitch on paper here) and this year she asked me to do
- [The Future of Crochet: 3D Printing for Hooks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/07/the-future-of-crochet-3d-printing-for-hooks.html) - Right now, you have 2 choices when it comes to crochet hooks. You can go to a store and purchase a hook that's been made in the millions by a manufacturer or you can purchase a hand-carved, custom crochet hook. In the future, I think there will be a third option. Hang on to your
- [Tips for Selecting Locker Hooking Materials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/07/tips-for-selecting-locker-hooking-materials.html) - It's Saturday! That means it's time for me to share what I'm crafting... and some tips! Today I'll tell you about locker hooking, and give you some tips for picking your materials. Locker Hooking Right now, I'm working on locker hooking a bathroom rug. You might be asking... what is locker hooking? Locker hooking uses
- [Insights on Expertise and Learning Knitting & Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/insights-on-expertise-and-learning-knitting-crochet.html) - Right now, I'm reading Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything. Want to know one thing I've learned? Experts can't store more individual items in memory than beginners... but they can store more information overall because they divide content up into useful chunks. What experts look like Ever heard someone describe their
- [The Simplest Skirt Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/06/the-simplest-skirt-pattern.html) - Here it is - the simplest skirt you can possibly make and the best project I know for beginning sewists who want to make clothing. Size this one up to fit adults - or down to fit dolls and stuffed animals. It's all good. What you'll need fabric (amount will depend on your measurements) elastic
- [What's the right way to hold a crochet hook?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/07/right-way-to-hold-a-crochet-hook-pencil-knife.html) - It's a question that I see on forums all the time: what's the right way to hold the hook? So, I though I would tackle my answer to this question for this Tip Tuesday: and I think that the answer is good news for most of us... there's no right way! As long as you're
- [Quick & Easy Shortcut for the Cow's Tail!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/07/quick-easy-shortcut-for-the-cows-tail.html) - A little update Hey, everyone! Yesterday was moving day for me... and everything went smoothly! Yay! It took a tad longer than usual to get our internet installed this morning (our new apartment seems to have some electrical trouble... eep!), so that's why this post is a bit late! Thank you so much to everyone
- [Sewing Camp](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/sewing-camp.html) - . . . handy tools and notions. . . . . . and a show & tell station all ready to be filled up. I brought in some samples of things they can make - but they don't have to make any of the patterns I'm bringing. This morning they'll each tell me what they
- [Let's talk about hair!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/lets-talk-about-hair.html) - We're in the final stretches of the doll-a-long... have you added hair to your doll yet? I think the hair is one of the most exciting parts because there are so many options! For a general how-to for adding hair, check out this blog post. Let's chat hair options, shall we? Curly Hair The A
- [Video: How to knit socks on 9" circulars](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/video-how-to-knit-socks-on-9-circulars.html) - If you read this blog, you may know that the 9" circular is my favorite way to knit socks. They're compact and great for traveling. But, I've been getting a lot of questions about how it actually works when knitting, particularly with the heel flap. So I made you a video!
- [How to Machine Applique Concave Curves - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/video-how-to-machine-applique-concave-curves.html) - Hello all! Here's the third video in the machine applique series. We covered convex curves in the very first video - the one that introduced the whole technique. Watch that video here. And we covered inside points in this video. Now we're tackling concave curves. Those are the ones that curve in (like a cave).
- [How to Make Yogurt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/06/how-to-make-yogurt.html) - I never thought so many people would be interested in my yogurt-making! I make my own yogurt (once a week, if you're curious), and every time I mention it, I get requests for a tutorial. So... here it is! It's not hard to do! And for folks like me (who like plain yogurt, or even
- [How to Make a Scrap Quilt - Video 3 - How to Join Pieced Strips (and keep the seams lined up)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/06/how-to-make-a-scrap-quilt-video.html) - This is the last video you need to learn how to make a scrap quilt. Mine is a Controlled Chaos scrappy quilt and you're welcome to sew along. I'm sharing a new block every week. The whole quilt is a simple collection of two-inch squares. Watch the video here showing how to cut those squares
- [My Week at Puppet Fantasy Camp](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/06/my-week-at-puppet-fantasy-camp.html) - I just got back from the best vacation ever. My husband and I went to the Beyond the Sock Puppetry Workshop where we spent a week learning how to make - and perform - hand and rod puppets. So! Much! Fun! Here we are with our instructors (and our finished puppets). We were trying to
- [Meet Craftwich: maker of delicious hand-carved crochet hooks!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/craftwich-hand-carved-crochet-hooks-review-interview.html) - I love wood. Real wood. And I'm a sucker for super-smooth, sanded wood... I've been known to stand in my kitchen, just holding (well, fondling, really) my handmade wooden spoons. (That's not weird... is it?) Anyway... a few months ago, I heard a rumor on the crochet grapevine: there was a chick up in the
- [Starry Night Block #5 - Red Giant](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/stary-night-block-5-red-giant.html) - The newest Starry Night Quilt Block of the Month Block is here - a Red Giant! What is it about pink and red together that makes my heart sing? It's one of my favorite color combinations. And here's a quick look at all the blocks so far. They're starting to get wonderfully complex - but
- [Tips for aligning your doll's legs](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/tips-for-aligning-your-dolls-legs.html) - Are you crocheting along with us for the doll-a-long? If so, hooray! What part are you up to? Today I'm going to show you some tips for aligning and crocheting together your doll's legs! Not crocheting along? It's not too late to join in! Grab a copy of the pattern and start crocheting! How to
- [Controlled Chaos Block #3 - a scrappy quilt-along](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/controlled-chaos-block-3-a-scrappy-quilt-along.html) - Here's block #3 in the scrappy quilt-along. I love it! This time I went for a classic checkerboard in pretty blues and greens. My inspiration? A block sent in by a reader! Ann shared her first block and wrote. . . Blue and green stripes - not as noticeably 'stripy' as I had hoped for
- [How to single crochet 2 together (sc2tog)...neatly!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/how-to-single-crochet-2-together-sc2tog-help.html) - A question I get asked very often is: when I sc2tog, that decrease looks all big and loose. How do I fix it? Today, I'll show you! If you're looking for a tutorial on how to sc2tog, then click here for a video. Aim for even stitches A very common problem is either having the
- [How to Add a Button to a Pincushion - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/video-how-to-add-a-button-to-a-pincushion.html) - This is my favorite pincushion style. For the best results you want to stuff it REALLY hard - but that makes that nice dimpled button in the center a bit tricky. And how do you knot it off? I don't want to see the knot anywhere. That's what I show you how to do in
- [Want to make socks w/o knitting? A Review of the Sock Loom!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/review-sock-loom-knit-socks-dvd.html) - Almost every crafty person I know has, at some time or another, thought of making their own socks. I was intrigued when I saw the Authentic Sock Loom Knitting Board, which allows you to make socks without knitting! I had to give it a try! About the Loom The kit contains an adjustable knitting loom
- [How to Publish a Craft Book: 7 things you need to know to get a contract](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/how-to-publish-a-craft-book-7-things-you-need-to-know-to-get-a-contract.html) - This Monday, I was lucky enough to speak on a panel with Abby Glassenberg (author of The Artful Bird and Stuffed Animals), Kari Chapin (author of The Handmade Marketplace and Grow Your Handmade Business) and Jennifer Urban-Brown (editor at Roost Books) about publishing a craft book. It was a fabulous bunch of ladies and a
- [Controlled Chaos: Scrappy Quilt-Along #2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/controlled-chaos-scrappy-quilt-along-2.html) - I'm so glad that some of you will be joining me in this scrappy quilt-along! Here's block #2. This time I used orange and mostly turquoise-ish blues. I really like how it turned out! And here's a quick mock-up of what it will look like if it ends up next to block #1 in the
- [Why does Disney 'go after the little guys'?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/disney-crafting-lawsuits-copyright-infringement.html) - Disney's characters are copyrighted. You can't use a drawing of Mickey Mouse and sell it on a mug, unless you have authorized consent to distribute the image. Disney has a reputation for being ruthless about protecting its intellectual property (example stories of folks getting sued here and here). This leaves a lot of questions from
- [Flash your awesome Kool-Aid dyeing results!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/flash-your-awesome-kool-aid-dyeing-results.html) - I hope you've had an awesome time with Kool-Aid Dye Week... I know I've had a blast experimenting! Did you give any of the techniques a try? If so... show it off! In case you missed it... I've posted tutorials for quite a few ways of using Kool-Aid to dye your yarn! If you missed
- [What else can you do with a unicorn pattern?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/variations-horse-unicorn-crochet-pattern.html) - When I published Flavia the Unicorn, I thought I was being quite clever in suggesting you could use the same pattern to make both a unicorn and a horse! And then you guys got your creative juices flowing... But my ideas are nothing compared to what happened when you guys got your hands on the
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt Along #1](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/05/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-1.html) - Raise your hand if you'd like to empty your scrap bins and make a pretty spectacular quilt along the way! *hand raised and waving around madly* I'm making a scrap quilt and I'd love for you to join me! I had originally thought about just cutting all my tiniest scraps into two inch blocks and then
- [How much yarn does crochet use? Single vs. double crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/05/how-much-yarn-does-crochet-use-single-vs-double-crochet.html) - My previous post, how much yarn do I need? has been so popular that I wanted to expand on it a little bit today by looking at adding another stitch into the mix, the double crochet. Double Crochet vs. Single Crochet The measurements above show you how much yarn you'll use for a single crochet
- [Easy Trick for Counting Rounds in Crochet!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/easy-trick-for-counting-rounds-in-crochet.html) - A lot of amigurumi are made by crocheting in the round. When teaching classes, I've noticed that counting rounds is something that gives a lot of crocheters trouble... I mean, who wants to count every stitch? In this post, I'll show you the shortcut that I use for counting rounds. Let's do a little example.
- [How to Dye Yarn with Kool-Aid: Getting Started](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-kool-aid-dye-yarn-tips.html) - I'm so excited to kick off Kool-Aid Dye Week! Each day, I'll be posting about a new technique for using Kool-Aid to dye yarn... all you'll need is some natural-colored yarn, a few shades of Kool-Aid and some hot water. Easy! Today, I'll talk about the basics you need to know to get started. Select
- [How to Kettle-Dye Yarn with Kool-Aid](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-kettle-dye-yarn-with-kool-aid.html) - Are you inspired to get dyeing with Kool-Aid? I hope so! Today, I'm going to tell you about the basics of Kool-Aid Dyeing, and show you how to achieve a kettle-dyed look. Kool-Aid Dyeing Basics You'll need: yarn made from natural animal-fibers (undyed is best) a few packets of Kool-Aid (see yesterday's post about testing
- [How to dye multi-color skeins with Kool-Aid](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-dye-multi-color-skeins-with-kool-aid.html) - I'm loving all the fun techniques you can do with Kool-Aid... are you having a blast? Today, I'm going to tell you about how to dye those multi-color skeins you so often see from Indie Dyers! It's a great chance to play around with color! I've dyed my skein red, orange and yellow (and left
- [How to dye long colorways with Kool-Aid, part 1](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/turorial-how-to-dye-long-colorways-with-kool-aid.html) - Squee! Can you believe there are so many ways to dye yarn with Kool-Aid? Today, I'm going to tell you how to dye yarn go get long colorways, or self-striping yarn. It's the technique I used to get the colors for this shawl: Don't you love the stripes? It's a time-consuming technique, but in my
- [How to dye long colorways with Kool-Aid, part 2](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-dye-long-colorways-with-kool-aid-part-2.html) - Alrighty, folks! Remember, we're in the middle of dyeing a fabulously long colorway? If you missed it, check out yesterday's post to catch up. I'm in the middle of showing you how to get a fab yarn like this: And we left off with our yarn in bowls, like this: Okay, so let's keep going!
- [How to ply your Kool-Aid dyed yarn for an awesome look!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/05/how-to-ply-your-kool-aid-dyed-yarn-for-an-awesome-look.html) - Ready to learn yet another cool technique you can do with Kool-Aid? Today, I'm going to show you how to get great barber-pole yarn by plying already dyed yarn! Remember how we dyed multi-color skeins? Now we're going to go one step further! I learned this technique in Spin Off Magazine, and had to give
- [Crafts in Vietnam](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/crafts-in-vietnam-resources-shops.html) - I saw oodles of great crafting on my trip to Vietnam! I'm going to give you an overview of some of the most popular crafts, as well as some resources and tips (whether you're looking to purchase finished crafts or materials to do your own crafting!) In general, Vietnam is a very poor country where
- [Suggestions for skin color yarns!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/05/suggestions-for-skin-color-yarns.html) - It can be hard to find a nice skin-tone yarn. So, I've compiled a few suggestions for you! Keep in mind that it's going to be hard to find a yarn that's exactly like a skin tone... remember you're crocheting a toy, not painting an exact likeness! Keep your mind open, and you'll find a
- [20% Off All Patterns with Cats & Dogs](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/05/20-off-all-patterns-with-cats-dogs.html) - It's Cats & Dogs month at Shiny Happy World - so we're having a sale on all patterns with cats or dogs! Use the discount code BESTFRIEND for 20% off all patterns that feature a cat or a dog - or lots of cats and dogs. :-) Shop here for cat patterns. Shop here for
- [Crochet sleepy eyes for your amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/05/crochet-sleepy-eyes-for-your-amigurumi.html) - A little while ago, I was invited to crochet-a-long with the facebook group, Learn Amigurumi Crochet with Us! We crocheted Howie the Penguin and had a blast! (If you haven't checked out the free Howie pattern, what are you waiting for?) Carrie (one of the group leaders) designed sleepy eyes for crocheters who didn't want
- [Do I need to weave in ends on a stuffed animal?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/05/do-i-need-to-weave-in-ends-on-a-stuffed-animal.html) - Okay, so here's a question I get often: when making a stuffed animal, is it important to weave in ends? I'll tell you! Weaving in ends What is weaving in ends? When you change colors (or start a new skein of yarn), you'll have little tails left behind. Those are called 'ends'. Weaving in ends
- [A finished Clapotis and some tips](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/05/a-finished-clapotis-and-some-tips.html) - Just the other day, I finished my clapotis, a wonderful scarf/wrap pattern by Kate Gilbert available as a free download on knitty. Clapotis is a wrap that makes use of dropped stitches for a great finished texture. It's a very popular pattern (over 14,000 people on ravelry have made it), and no wonder! The pattern
- [How to work with two yarns at once](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/04/how-to-work-with-two-yarns-at-once.html) - I often get asked about the best way to work with two yarns at once. So, in this post, I'll talk about the pros and cons of three different ways of working with a double yarn. Of course, for any amigurumi pattern, you can crochet with two yarns at once, use a bigger hook and
- [Help for a too-pointy amigurumi head!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/04/help-for-a-too-pointy-amigurumi-head.html) - It's Tip Tuesday! Hooray! I just got an email from Pam, asking: I'm having trouble with making the heads of any animals round, it's always pointy on the top. Do you know how I can fix that? Thanks! Happy to help! When there is a too-pointy top, a couple of things could be the problem.
- [How to Use Pendant Frames for Embroidery - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/pendant-frames-embroidery-video.html)
- [My favorite relaxing knitting projects...](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/favorite-knitting-relaxing-patterns-projects.html) - It's day two of Knitting and Crochet Blogging week! Today's topic is to write about a project inspired by your mascot. If you read yesterday's post, you'll remember that I'm a Manatee, because I love to knit projects that are fairly simple and relaxing. So today, I'm going to share with you some of my
- [My favorite tool: a 9" circular knitting needle](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/my-favorite-tool-a-9-circular-knitting-needle.html) - Hi there folks! Welcome to day 6 of Knitting and Crochet Blogging Week! Today's topic is 'a tool to covet'... so I'm going to talk about my favorite tool: my 9" circular knitting needle! Why a 9"? Most people think I'm crazy when I say that my favorite knitting needle is a 9" circular. But
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #15](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-15.html) - Here's block #15 in the Controlled Chaos Quilt! What You’ll Need 48 two-inch squares in color A (shown in pink) 52 two-inch squares in color B (shown in green) Instructions Use 1/4″ seam allowances for all sewing. Press all the seams. I’m pressing mine open for this quilt. I think it will make things simpler in
- [Is the Invisible Decrease right for you?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/is-the-invisible-decrease-right-for-you.html) - What is the Invisible Decrease? If you crochet amigurumi, you have probably heard of the Invisible Decrease. The Invisible Decrease is another name for slip stitching 2 together through the front loop. The result is a decrease that is thinner (and less bumpy) than a regular decrease. Is it right for you? I often get
- [How to Dye a Gradient Yarn using a Spray Bottle](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/how-to-dye-a-gradient-yarn-using-a-spray-bottle.html) - Remember when I told you how to dye a gradient yarn with a sock blank? Well, today I'm going to go a step further and show you how to get an even more gentle gradient using a *spray bottle. When I made this skein of yarn, I was feeling Easter-y, so I picked yellow, blue
- [How to Knit or Crochet Using an *Exact* Amount of Yardage!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/04/how-to-knit-or-crochet-using-an-exact-amount-of-yardage.html) - We've all done this, right? You have a ball (or partial ball) of yarn, and you want to know how much you can knit/crochet until you run out. How do you calculate this? I'll show you! How to calculate how many stitches you can get from your yarn I'm detailing each of these steps, below!
- [Variegated Yarns: swatches in knitting, crocheting and weaving](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/04/variegated-yarns-swatches-in-knitting-crocheting-and-weaving.html) - It's always so mysterious how a pretty little skein will work up, isn't it? Especially with variegated yarn! I dyed up a little (well, BIG) skein and made swatches in knitting, crocheting and weaving! And they're SO different! Here's the skein I dyed (if you want to try it, check my tutorial on how to
- [Controlled Chaos Scrap Quilt - Block #14](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/controlled-chaos-scrap-quilt-block-14.html) - For this block I sewed things up in rows. The top and bottom rows are identical, as are rows 2 and 9, rows 3 and 7, etc. Knowing that can help you sew them up in batches. Then sew those rows into one fabulous block. :-) That's 14 blocks done - just 6 more to go! I think
- [Finished Rainbow Bead Crochet Necklace](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/finished-rainbow-bead-crochet-necklace.html) - I've been working on this project for a while: I started it in December, but got derailed until I found this nifty bead spinner to help me get that long strand done... and here it is! You can see how long that black strand is around the back. That's a lot of beads! I just love
- [How to Dye a Rainbow Gradient Yarn (using a sock blank!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/how-to-dye-a-rainbow-gradient-yarn-using-a-sock-blank.html) - Today I'm going to show you how I dyed this beautiful skein of yarn: I've talked about how to dye a gradient before, but today's technique is a bit easier (but costs a little more). For this project, I used a sock blank. What is a sock blank? A sock blank is basically length of
- [How to Match and Join Pattern Pieces](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/04/how-to-match-and-join-pattern-pieces.html) - I try whenever possible to have my pattern pieces print out on a single sheet of paper - but sometimes I just need to go a little bit bigger. In those cases, you need to tape two pattern pieces together to make one larger piece. For clothing patterns you can get into taping LOTS of
- [Choosing Fabrics for the Bird Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/choosing-fabrics-bird-quilt.html) - For the back I went in a whole different direction. My daughter Jo is crazy about this Cuddle Fleece. At her request I used it for the back of the Cat Quilt. She loved it - and asked for it again for the back of these birds. I think this is going to live on our
- [Stuffed Animals: the must-have sewing book of the year!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/04/stuffed-animals-concept-to-construction-abby-glassenberg-review.html) - Oh, I know. It's only April. How can I make such a bold claim? Because this book is that good. I've been waiting for this one... Stuffed Animals: From Concept to Construction is a fabulous new book by stuffed animal designer (and buddy of mine), Abby Glassenberg. As she was writing the book, I could
- [Tips for Knitting Wingspan](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/tips-for-knitting-wingspan-help.html) - Have you heard about Wingspan by Tri'Coterie? It's a trending knitting pattern on Ravelry recently... and I'm seeing it pop up everywhere! I just finished knitting my first one and I've cast on for a second. It's no wonder it's a popular pattern... Wingspan is both fun and easy, and it's a great yarn for
- [Make a Felt Garland - using any Christmas ornament pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/04/make-a-felt-garland-using-any-christmas-ornament-pattern.html)
- [How to Measure Yarn](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/how-to-measure-yarn.html) - Last week, I showed you how to calculate how much yarn you'll need for a project. But calculating the yardage is only half of the story. Getting an accurate measurement of your stitches is a crucial, as this is the measurement that you'll be using for all of your calculations! Today, I'll share with you
- [How to take great photos with white backgrounds](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/how-to-photos-with-white-backgrounds-photography.html) - Last week, I told you my top 5 tips for taking great photos. This week, I'm going to go into a bit more detail about how to get photos of items with plain white backgrounds. Mastering 'the white background' is an easy way to get professional-looking project photos. This is how I take the photos
- [Knook (knitting with a crochet hook): is it worth learning?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/04/knook-knitting-with-a-crochet-hook-wort.html) - Have you heard of the Knook (pronounced 'nook')? It's a very clever hook/technique that allows you to form a fabric that looks like knitting by using a special crochet hook. While it's a very interesting idea, it requires learning new stitches (not crochet stitches or knit stitches), so isn't exactly a short cut for learning
- [How to divide a ball of yarn in half](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/04/how-to-divide-a-ball-of-yarn-in-half.html) - The other day, I started another pair of two-at-a-time socks. I can get one pair of socks from a 220 yard ball of yarn... but to do this technique, you need to separate the ball into two smaller balls of yarn. So, how do you get two even balls of yarn without using a yardstick
- [A Peek at My Shiny Happy Neighborhood-in-Progress](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2016/03/a-peek-at-my-shiny-happy-neighborhood-in-progress.html) - And this is my gingerbread quilt. :-) All the houses are gingerbread color with candy trim and lots of extras - like beading, extra stitching, buttons, and rickrack "snow" on the roof. I'm having so much fun with these blocks! And it's been absolutely fantastic to see the houses that members are making! Pop into
- [Have you tried these ways of making yarn?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/how-to-make-yarn.html) - This post contains affiliate links. That means I make a little commission if you buy something after clicking through. All affiliate links are marked with an *. Of course you can go to the store and purchase a skein of yarn. But you can also make the yarn yourself! Some of these are fabulous options
- [How to Turn Any Embroidery Pattern into an Applique Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/turn-embroidery-pattern-applique-pattern.html) - Want to learn the basics of hand embroidery with an easy online workshop - totally free? Sign up for Embroidery 101 here. You'll learn how to get started, the tools and supplies you'll need, the four most basic stitches, how to transfer your pattern and how to display your work. If you already know the
- [How do you tell if something's worth doing?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/03/how-do-you-tell-if-somethings-worth-doing.html) - Last week, I wrote about How to Say 'No' (and rescue your schedule). I'm so happy to hear that so many of you loved the post! I was thrilled to read so many comments! One question that popped up in the comments was, "How can you tell if something is worth your time?" It's an
- [How to Attach Limbs to a Felt Softie - video](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/video-how-to-attach-limbs-to-a-felt-softie.html) - The little guy I've been working on in this series is an Oddball. You can find his pattern here. Best, Wendi
- [How Do I Embroider on Quilts?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/03/ask-wendi-embroidering-on-quilts-plus-a-tutorial.html) - Aaaaack! Run away! This is quite ugly from the back - and that's because the shapes are filled with cute chain stitches, French knots, and lazy daisies. Here's another. . . Again, this one has lots of detail inside the main shapes and it looks bad, bad, bad from the back. So, quilting first and
- [Carrot Full o' Candy - Free Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/03/carrot-full-o-candy-free-pattern.html) - I was inspired by Chez Beeper Bebe's remake of the classic paratrooper dimestore toy (You haven't seen it? Well go check it out, for goodness's sake! It's fabulous!) and I decided to remake those carrot-shaped cellophane bags you find filled with candy at Easter. My version is made from fabric - thus hiding what kind
- [Weekly Planner: free printable! (+ suggestions!)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2017/03/weekly-planner-free-printable-suggestions.html) - Planners are a big deal. They can get really fancy. And there are planner people to follow on instagram. Whoa. It's a little overwhelming! I've always struggled with finding the right planner for me. I love having a paper planner, but I always found it hard to find the right one. Some have a page
- [How to take charge of your unruly scrap pile!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/how-to-organize-scraps-manage-weigh.html) - You're joining in on the scrap-a-long, right? This crochet-a-long is all about gathering up those little bits of yarn that you can't find a use for... and turning them into something fabulous! Even if you're not crocheting with us, this post will help you to corral those scraps and get them organized! It's spring... why
- [It's Show & Tell Time!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/its-show-tell-time-4.html) - I have so many Show & Tell photos waiting to be shared that I'm going to have to do this over a few weeks. This week I'm starting with QUILTS. Grab a cup of tea and get ready to enjoy some amazing creations! Sprinkles doll quilt Julie made this extra special Sprinkles quilt for her
- [How to Write Your First Pattern in 6 Steps](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/03/tips-for-publishing-your-first-pattern-knitting-sewing-crochet.html) - You might think that you need a whole bunch of fancy software to put together a professional-looking pattern, but it just isn't true! You can put together a great-looking pattern using what you probably already have on your computer! I'm going to assume that you already have written a clear set of pattern instructions, and
- [Does Cotton Shrink?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/03/does-cotton-shrink.html) - You may have heard that cotton shrinks. Are you ready to be surprised? It's a myth that cotton shrinks I can already hear you... "I put that shirt in the washer and it shrank! I know it must be true! So, let's dig a little deeper. Have you ever worn your favorite pair of jeans
- [How to uncurl the cord on your circular knitting needles](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2010/03/how-to-uncurl-the-cord-on-your-circular-knitting-needles.html) - It's one of the biggest problems with circular knitting needles: the cord is often all twisted! When too curly, the needle is difficult to work with... and it's often in it's curly state when it comes out of the package or after being stored for a while (as pictured in photo 1, above). Fortunately, it's
- [Free Sewing Pattern - Receiving Blanket for Baby](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/05/free-sewing-pattern-receiving-blanket-for-baby.html) - Click here to download the FREE pattern. A receiving blanket is a baby staple - a lightweight blanket perfect for swaddling, for warmth or shade, for impromptu diaper changes, for a nursing cover-up - you can't have too many. Luckily, they're really easy to whip up. On my sample I decided to add an appliqued
- [How to get great-looking stripes!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2011/02/knit-crochet-stripes-thickness-random-beautiful.html) - Welcome to 'Technique Tuesday'! Every Tuesday, my blog post will feature a new tip/technique that will help you with your crocheting! Be sure to join me ever week! I've been on a stripe-kick recently... I just can't get enough of them! Stripes are a great way to use up leftover yarn: you can mix together
- [Work with What You Have](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2018/01/work-with-what-you-have.html) - Many years ago I designed this quilt for a book called Simple Contemporary Quilts. I had already made a smaller, lap-sized version for myself, and that's what I sent in for my pitch. They loved it and accepted it, but wanted a larger version for the book. Here's the thing - the smaller version was
- [Is My Child Ready to Sew on a Machine?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/10/child-ready-sew-machine.html) - Head on over to Sew, Mama, Sew because I've got a guest post over there that I'm really proud of - and I think you all are going to love it! It's got. . . 1. A fun way for your kids to practice some basic sewing machine skills. 2. A sneaky way for you
- [Enough Is as Good as a Feast - a free Thanksgiving embroidery pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/11/enough-good-feast-free-embroidery-pattern.html) - Happy Thanksgiving! Whether you celebrate the American holiday or not, I want to take today to tell everyone how very grateful I am for you - who allow me to do this job I love so much. Feast is one of my favorite embroidery patterns, and I've decided to make it free. You can download
- [Monster in a Groovy Car - FREE Embroidery Pattern](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2013/02/free-pattern-coming-monday.html) - Jo informs me that this is a bird - not a monster. I told her that any bird big enough and smart enough to drive a car is totally a monster. Big birds (but not Big Bird, of course) scare me. :-) It's a free pattern! Download it here. Have a fabulous weekend everyone! I
- [Free Pattern - Heart Garland for Valentine's Day](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/01/free-pattern-heart-garland-valentines-day.html) - Crafting for Valentine's Day is so much fun - especially since you don't have to put the decorations away after the holiday's over. Hearts never go out of season! This pretty heart garland is easy to make (Just one stitch! And there's a link to a video showing you how to do it!) and it's
- [My Sewing Tool Basket](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2015/01/sewing-tool-basket.html) - This week I'm on vacation. While I'm gone I'm showing off my new super-tidy sewing room, and sharing my solutions to some common craft supply storage challenges. This little sewing tool basket was the first thing I organized in my sewing room. I did it over a year ago and it was SO NICE having
- [Tutorial: Crochet Rainbow Hat](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/12/tutorial-crochet-rainbow-hat.html) - I love rainbows! So, today, I'm going to show you how to add a fun rainbow detail to any hat pattern! First, gather up some rainbow colored yarns, along with a neutral color: This is a great opportunity to use scraps, as you won't need a lot of each color! It's easy to add a
- [Are you committing a gauge sin?](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2012/06/knitting-crochet-frequent-tension-gauge-mistakes-suggestions.html) - Ordinarily, I'm the sort of teacher who will say, 'Do whatever you'd like, as long as it's working'. I don't care if you throw or knit continental, I don't care if you crochet while holding your hook like a knife or a pencil. I even don't really care if you pick up stitches with your
- [Easy Cowl Tutorial](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/12/hand-dyed-project-the-versatile-cowl.html) - I've talked about dyeing yarn with Kool-aid... and now I have a finished project: an awesome cowl! Cowls seem to be everywhere this season, and I love them because they're so versatile. As you can see in the photos above, they can be worn around the neck as a scarf, on your head like a
- [La Droguerie](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/12/la-droguerie.html) - store: La Droguerie address: (Paris) 9 et 11 rue du Jour 75001 PARIS (Bordeaux) 8 place Puy-Paulin 33000 BORDEAUX website: www.ladroguerie.com date of visit: July & August, 2009 This summer, while I was in France, I got the chance to visit 2 different stores of La Droguerie (there are 10 stores in France, as well
- [Crocheting through front, back and both loops](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2009/10/crocheting-through-front-back-and-both-loops.html) - Have you ever wondered about the difference between crocheting through the front, back and both loops? I'll show you the different fabrics you'll get using these various techniques! Working in the Round When working in the round, you crochet without turning the piece. This means that the right side is facing you for all rounds.

## Pages

- [home page](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/) - Welcome to My Shiny Happy World My goal is simple–to make your making more joyful and fun than ever before. With innovative patterns, free workshops, and a friendly community, I’m here to turn your crafting into a creating adventure that leaves you grinning from ear to ear. So grab your pencils and pin cushions, and
- [Partners](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/partners) - Mostly you purchase Shiny Happy World patterns directly from our website, but we do work with a few partners. Embroidery Machine Patterns Chantell's Creations sells Shiny Happy World applique patterns formatted to work with embroidery machines Kits and Patterns Connecting Threads sells patterns and kits for some of my stuffed animals. Finished Items Loving Threads
- [Let's Make a Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/lets-make-a-quilt) - This is the main table of contents for ALL the quilting lessons and tutorials. I know - it looks like a lot. (There's a shorter, nutshell overview here.) You can start at the beginning, or jump right in to any tutorial that catches your eye. At the end of every lesson you'll find links to
- [Learn to Embroider](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/learn-to-embroider) - Embroidery is a fabulous craft – inexpensive, portable, and as easy or complicated as you want to make it. I’ve organized here all the embroidery tutorials on Shiny Happy World into groups that walk you through every step of the process – from choosing materials to transferring your pattern, lots of different stitches, and suggestions
- [Thanks!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/thanks) - I'm so happy you'll be sticking around! No need to do anything else - you'll still keep getting the Shiny Happy News. Best,Wendi🥰
- [Permissions](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/permissions) - All of my patterns, printables, and other artwork are copyrighted. You may use these designs in any way you like for personal use. You may not, under any circumstances, copy and resell the pattern. You may sell things you make with the designs, as long as you are making them one at a time, by yourself.
- [FAQ](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/faq) - Here's where you'll find answers to some common questions. . . Digital Patterns and Shipping First, click the little cart icon in the top right corner of the screen. That will bring up your shopping cart and show you what's in it. Next, click the "Checkout" button. That will bring up a screen that looks
- [Let's Draw!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/lets-draw) - This is the main table of contents for ALL the drawing lessons and tutorials. There's not much here yet - but it will grow! Clip Art
- [About](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/aboutcontact) - My name is Wendi Gratz. Welcome to my Shiny Happy World! I hope you see something here that makes you smile. I spent over twenty years working in the children's book industry and the experience has left its mark on me - all my favorite artists are children's book illustrators, I believe people are basically
- [Welcome! I'm so happy you're here!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-happy-here) - Your subscription has been confirmed - you're now an official resident of this Shiny Happy World. :-) Welcome! And thanks for subscribing! You'll receive an official welcome e-mail within an hour, with a handful of links showing you around. It'll also have a coupon code especially for you. :-) See you soon! Best, Wendi
- [Welcome!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-2) - Thanks so much for your visit to my Shiny Happy World! You should receive an email any minute now with a link to download those five terrific projects especially for beginners. You'll also receive an official welcome e-mail within an hour, with a handful of links showing you around, plus a special coupon code especially for you.
- [Welcome to Sewing City!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-to-sewing-city) - Welcome to Sewing City! Here at Shiny Happy World we sew dolls and stuffed animals. We also sew clothing - but only clothing for dolls. 😁 On this page you'll find a roadmap to everything about sewing. Try Before You Buy Want to see if you like my teaching style before you buy a pattern?
- [Welcome to Quiltopolis!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-to-quiltopolis) - Welcome to Quiltopolis! It's pretty much the capital city of Shiny Happy World - with the bestselling patterns and the most popular tutorials. I developed a special method for Quilt As You Go combined with applique with fusible adhesive to make your quilting as fun and creative as possible. On this page you'll find a
- [Welcome to Illustration Station!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-to-illustration-station) - Welcome to Illustration Station! It's the newest destination at Shiny Happy World. Right now it's a tiny little speck of a city, but it has big dreams and plans to grow! I bought an iPad a few years ago and bought an inexpensive little app called Procreate. Almost overnight I went from being a person
- [Welcome to Embroidery Town!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-to-embroidery-town) - Welcome to Embroidery Town! Here at Shiny Happy World we love to do hand embroidery. It's such a fun, inexpensive and portable craft! We embroider on anything we can get into a hoop - and we also love to embroider on felt and use hand stitching to make adorable little stuffed felt friends. On this
- [Welcome to Crochet Junction!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome-to-crochet-junction) - Welcome to Crochet Junction! Crochet Junction started out as FreshStitches - a sister city run by Wendi's friend Stacey Trock. When Stacey decided to retire from the crochet pattern business, Wendi bought FreshStitches and made it part of Shiny Happy World. All of our crochet patterns for for adorable stuffed animals - and the very
- [Welcome](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/welcome) - Thank you for subscribing. And welcome! Look for a special email in your inbox within the next hour. It'll point you to a couple of the most popular sections in my Shiny Happy World (Free Patterns! Lessons and Tutorials!) and it'll have your special welcome discount code. :-) Best, Wendi
- [PDF Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/pdf-patterns) - All my patterns are sold as PDF files. That means they are digital patterns, delivered instantly by email, with links to video tutorials right in the pattern. Neat! You only print the pages needed, and you can print directly onto specialty papers like freezer paper, fusible adhesive, or Sulky Sticky Fabri-solvy. You can skip the
- [Let's Learn to Crochet Amigurumi!](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/lets-learn-to-crochet-amigurumi) - This is the main table of contents for ALL the crochet lessons and tutorials. I know - it looks like a lot. They’re arranged by subject so you can work your way through the lessons in a systematic way. Start at the beginning, or jump right in to any tutorial that catches your eye. At
- [Free Sewing Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-patterns/free-sewing-patterns) - Click on an image for more info and to download the free pattern. If you like these, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a weekly newsletter full of sewing tips and tricks, free patterns, special discounts, and other things to make you smile. :-)
- [Free Quilt Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-patterns/free-quilt-patterns) - Free Quilt Patterns Click on an image for more info and to download the free pattern. If you like these, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a weekly newsletter full of sewing tips and tricks, free patterns, special discounts, and other things to make you smile. :-)
- [Free Felt Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-patterns/free-felt-patterns) - Click on an image for more info and to download the free pattern. If you like these, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a weekly newsletter full of sewing tips and tricks, free patterns, special discounts, and other things to make you smile. :-)
- [Free Embroidery Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-patterns/free-embroidery-patterns) - Click on an image for more info and to download the free pattern. If you like these, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a weekly newsletter full of sewing tips and tricks, free patterns, special discounts, and other things to make you smile. :-)
- [Free Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-patterns) - Get your free patterns here! There are so many that I had to create separate pages for the different kinds. Just click on the link for the needlework you want and you'll see a gallery of projects to choose from. :-) If you like these, sign up for the Shiny Happy News! Subscribers get a
- [Free Lessons & Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/free-lessons-tutorials-2) - Here at Shiny Happy World you'll find hundreds of free tutorials teaching you how to quilt, sew, crochet, and embroider. Most of these tutorials include videos showing you exactly how to do something - as if you're sitting right next to me while I show you. You can work through these tutorials systematically - like
- [Felt Lessons and Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/felt-lessons-and-tutorials) - Here you'll find all the free felt lessons and tutorials. They're arranged by subject so you can work your way through the lessons in a systematic way. Remember - all Shiny Happy World patterns have links to all the tutorials you need right in the pattern. You can purchase any pattern and work through it
- [Embroidery Lessons and Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/embroidery-lessons-and-tutorials) - Here you'll find all the free embroidery lessons and tutorials. They're arranged by subject so you can work your way through the lessons in a systematic way. Remember - all Shiny Happy World patterns have links to all the tutorials you need right in the pattern. You can purchase any pattern and work through it
- [Easy Cross Stitch Kits](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/easy-cross-stitch-kits) - I designed these easy cross stitch kits for beginners - especially for the youngest beginners. Each kit comes with simple written instructions. You can find more detailed instructions here. And if you like to learn from videos, you're in luck! There are video instructions here. Get the Charlie the dog embroidery kit here. Get the
- [Craftsy Classes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/clubs-and-workshops) - Shiny Happy World has a number of workshops hosted on Craftsy. Craftsy has its own own login and password. You will not be able to use your Shiny Happy World login and password to access the classes, and Shiny Happy World coupons will not work on them. You'll find the links you need below.
- [Contact](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/contact) - Any questions? Comments? Awesome projects you've made with my patterns that you'd like to share? You're in the right place! But you might not need to send me an email at all. Here are some common email topics and immediate help for you. . . I didn't receive the link to download my pattern Did
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/privacy-policy) - Shiny Happy World found at https://shinyhappyworld.com/ (“Website”) is governed by the following privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”). We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting it. The purpose of this Privacy Policy is to inform you what personally identifiable information we may collect and how it may be used. This statement only applies to this
- [Sewing Lessons and Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/sewing-lessons-and-tutorials) - Here you'll find all the free sewing lessons and tutorials. They're arranged by subject so you can work your way through the lessons in a systematic way. There are some general sewing lessons, but most of these tutorials are specific to sewing dolls, doll clothes, and stuffed animals. Remember - all Shiny Happy World patterns
- [Quilting Lessons and Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/quilting-lessons-and-tutorials) - Here you'll find all the free applique and quilting lessons and tutorials. They're arranged by subject so you can work your way through the lessons in a systematic way. I use a combination of Quilt As You Go and applique with fusible adhesive for all my quilts, so I've grouped all those lessons and tutorials
- [Home](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/home-2)
- [Embroidery Lessons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/embroidery-lessons) - Want to learn how to embroider? Here's where you'll find links to all the embroidery videos, lessons and patterns. . . Tools and Supplies My Favorite Embroidery Tools and Supplies Click here for a list of my favorite hoops, stabilizers, pattern transfer tools and more. Click on a title to watch the video and get
- [Sewing Lessons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/sewing-lessons) - If you have a sewing question (or lots of sewing questions) this is the place to be. On this page you'll find links to all the sewing information at Shiny Happy World. Tools and Supplies My favorite sewing tools and supplies Click the link for a list of posts about my favorite sewing tools and
- [Quilting Lessons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/quilt-lessons) - Want to learn about quilting? Here are links to all the lessons, patterns and more. Tools and Supplies My Favorite Quilting Tools and Supplies Click for a list of basic tools - then click on a title to read the full post and watch the video. Videos Piecing Videos Click for a list of basic
- [Felt Lessons](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/felt-lessons-2) - Working with felt is dreamy. Here's where you'll find links to all the information you need to get started. . . Tools and Supplies My Favorite Felt Tools and Supplies Click for a list of my favorite tools and supplies for working with felt, then click on a title for more info. Videos Felt Videos
- [Shiny Happy Shopping](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/store) - Welcome! If you're looking for patterns designed especially for beginners, plus my very favorite tools and supplies - you've come to the right place! You can shop by category. . . Or you can shop by difficulty level. . . All the patterns have a thimble ranking showing how difficult they are, like this. .
- [Finished Stitches Embroidery Challenge](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/finished-stitches-embroidery-challenge) - Ever wonder what to DO with your finished embroidery pieces? I sent out all my embroidery samples to Shiny Happy Readers and asked them to make them into something - anything - as long as it was a finished thing. Here are the finished projects! Now it's up to you to vote for a Fan
- [blogger](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/blogger)

## Sliders

- [Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/?carousels=patterns)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/uncategorized)
- [Felt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/felt)
- [Show & Tell](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/show-and-tell)
- [Quilting + Appliqué](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/quilting)
- [Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/embroidery)
- [Sewing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/sewing)
- [Behind the Scenes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/behind-scenes)
- [Other People's Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/other-peoples-patterns-2)
- [Wallpaper](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/wallpaper)
- [Classes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/classes)
- [Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/crochet)
- [Amigurumi Tips](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/amigurumi-tips-techniques)
- [FreshStitches](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/freshstitches)
- [Store Spotlight](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/store-spotlight)
- [Reviews & Interviews](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/reviews-interviews)
- [Works in Progress](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/works-in-progress)
- [Knitting](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/knitting)
- [Other Crafts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/other-crafts)
- [Living a Creative Life](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/living-a-creative-life)
- [Business](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/business)
- [Archives](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/archives)
- [Art + Illustration](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/art-illustration)
- [Clothing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/life/clothing)
- [Books](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/life/books)
- [Food](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/life/food)
- [Life](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/category/life)

## Tags

- [sewing room](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/sewing-room)
- [sewing with kids](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/sewing-with-kids)
- [six months of softies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/six-months-of-softies-2)
- [Finished Stitches](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/finished-stitches)
- [QAYG](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/qayg)
- [Party Animals Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/party-animals-club)
- [T-shirt Quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/t-shirt-quilt)
- [business](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/business)
- [Christmas](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/christmas)
- [Craftsy](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/craftsy-class)
- [Creature Camp](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/creature-camp)
- [Dress Up Bunch](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/dress-up-bunch)
- [Controlled Chaos](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/controlled-chaos)
- [recipes](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/recipes)
- [Process](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/process)
- [Charity](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/charity)
- [mending](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/mending)
- [Easter](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/easter)
- [Halloween](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/halloween)
- [Valentine's Day](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/valentines-day)
- [Thanksgiving](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/thanksgiving)
- [Reviews](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/reviews)
- [softie tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/softie-tutorials)
- [clothing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/clothing)
- [Shiny Happy Houses](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/shiny-happy-houses)
- [Everything You Need to Know](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/everything-you-need-to-know)
- [What to Do with a Quilt Pattern (besides make a quilt)](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/what-to-do-with-a-quilt-pattern-besides-make-a-quilt)
- [fish quilt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/fish-quilt)
- [amigurumi](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/amigurumi)
- [travel](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/travel)
- [knitting](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/knitting)
- [rainbow](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/rainbow)
- [design](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/design)
- [free](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/free)
- [australia](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/australia)
- [socks](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/socks)
- [kool-aid dye week](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/kool-aid-dye-week)
- [kool-aid dyeing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/kool-aid-dyeing)
- [cowCAL](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/cowcal)
- [dragon](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/dragon)
- [bead crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/bead-crochet)
- [studio](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/studio)
- [DragonCAL](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/dragoncal)
- [SlugCAL](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/slugcal)
- [#scrapCAL](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/scrapcal)
- [doll](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/doll)
- [#dollCAL](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/dollcal)
- [Modern Baby Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/modern-baby-crochet)
- [Ami Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/ami-club)
- [words to live by](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/words-to-live-by)
- [Knitting Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/knitting-tools-supplies)
- [Quilting WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/quilting-wip)
- [Embroidery WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/embroidery-wip)
- [Felt WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/felt-wip)
- [Embroidery Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/embroidery-patterns)
- [crochet tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/crochet-tutorials)
- [Sewing Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/sewing-patterns)
- [Felt Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/felt-patterns)
- [Embroidery Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/embroidery-tools-supplies)
- [Quilting Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/quilting-tools-supplies)
- [Sewing Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/sewing-tutorials)
- [crochet patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/crochet-patterns)
- [book reviews](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/book-reviews)
- [Embroidery Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/embroidery-tutorials)
- [Crochet Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/crochet-tools-supplies)
- [Felt Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/felt-tools-supplies)
- [Felt Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/felt-tutorials)
- [Quilt Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/quilt-tutorials)
- [Quilt Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/quilt-patterns)
- [Knitting Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/knitting-patterns)
- [Knitting Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/knitting-tutorials)
- [Softie Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/softie-patterns)
- [Slow Sewing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/slow-sewing)
- [St. Patrick's Day](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/st-patricks-day)
- [Sewing Tools & Supplies](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/sewing-tools-supplies)
- [crochet WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/crochet-wip)
- [EPP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/epp)
- [wallpaper](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/wallpaper)
- [crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/crochet)
- [knitting WIP](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/knitting-wip)
- [Cricut](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/cricut)
- [other crafts](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/other-crafts)
- [Funny Faces Quilt Block of the Month Club](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/funny-faces-quilt-block-of-the-month-club)
- [show & tell](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/show-tell)
- [Daily Dot](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/daily-dot)
- [drawing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/drawing)
- [fabric](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/fabric)
- [archives](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/archives)
- [spoonflower](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/spoonflower)
- [art](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/art)
- [canva](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/canva)
- [art tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/art-tutorials)
- [other people's patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/tag/other-peoples-patterns)

## Grid Categories

- [Lessons + Tutorials](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/lessons-tutorials)
- [Sewing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/sewing)
- [Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/embroidery)
- [Quilting + Applique](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/quilting-applique)
- [Felt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/felt)
- [Free Patterns](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/free-patterns)
- [Felt](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/felt-free-patterns)
- [Quilting + Appliqué](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/quilting-applique-free-patterns)
- [Embroidery](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/embroidery-free-patterns)
- [Sewing](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/sewing-free-patterns)
- [Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/crochet)
- [Crochet](https://www.shinyhappyworld.com/browse/crochet-free-patterns)