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June 29, 2023
WIP Wednesday #96: Summer Camp Quilt, Book Rec & Scrappy Zip Pouch Tip from Crafty Gemini

Welcome to WIP Wednesday! In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will be discussing:

– a summer camp quilt she’s working on for her daughter

– a great quilt book recommendation

– Stripology ruler review

– Tips for making her Scrappy Zipper Pouch

Watch the Scrappy Zipper Pouch here!

Products and projects mentioned:

• Scrappy Zip Pouch Tutorial: https://youtu.be/uRVFwGUODts

• Fabric Bundle #5: https://craftygemini.com/shop/half-yard-fabric-bundle-5/

• Cotton Batting on a Roll 50 yds: https://craftygemini.com/shop/cotton-batting-on-a-roll-50-yds/

• NEW Favorite iron for sewists & quilters (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3NevJLI

• Book mentioned (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3JCPg7j

• Stripology Squared Ruler ...

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June 22, 2023
WIP Wednesday #95: Using up fabric scraps, batting on a roll and a NEW fabric bundle! from Crafty Gemini

Welcome to WIP Wednesday! In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will be discussing:

– a NEW Half Yard Fabric Bundle that’s on sale

– How to cut up your fabric scraps into 2.5″ strips

– Ideas for using up fabric scraps (fantastic for stash busting!!)

– What is batting on a roll and how I use it for quilted projects

Submit your own question to be answered on a future WIP Wednesday here: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

What we’re covering:

1:24 – New fabric bundle

5:59 – Choosing colors that go together

9:30 – Using fabric scraps demo

11:13 – Prepping ...

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June 14, 2023
WIP Wednesday #94: My NEW favorite iron, Sewing course bundle, Art Gallery Fabric Bundle #4 from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will be discussing:

– 3 different organizer projects you can learn to make and the techniques covered

– all about the new Art Gallery Fabrics Limited Half Yard Bundles for sale in the shop!

– her new favorite iron for sewists and quilters (bonus it’s super affordable)

Submit your own question to be answered on a future WIP Wednesday here: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

What we’re covering:

2:05 – Fabric Bundle #4

8:38 – New fav iron!

15:17 – Quick ironing and starching demo!

23:47 – Organizer courses bundle!

Products and projects mentioned:

• Organizer Sewing ...

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June 1, 2023
WIP Wednesday #93: Birthday Sale, Cutting Fabric, zippers & how to change bag pattern size from Crafty Gemini

It’s Vanessa’s birthday!!! Celebrate in this week’s WIP Wednesday and shop the Sitewide Birthday Sale!!

Everything in the shop (except sewing machines) is 20% off this week only! Shop here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will be discussing:

– Sitewide Birthday Sale: this week only!

– how to increase or decrease a bag pattern

– how to cut fabric: with ruler or cutting mat lines?

– how to make the most of a zipper you cut up

• Submit your own question to be answered on a future WIP Wednesday here: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

What we ...

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May 24, 2023
WIP Wednesday #92: Art Gallery Fabrics, Quilting cotton quality, fraying fabric and more! from Crafty Gemini

Join Vanessa in this week’s WIP Wednesday as we cover quilting cotton quality, fraying fabric, and so much more!! Tune in for:

– Wallet Course Bundle Flash Sale announcement – this week only!

– how to keep quilting cottons from fraying

– Art Gallery Fabrics quilting cotton vs others

– Prewashing vs not prewashing quilting cottons

• Submit your own question to be answered on a future WIP Wednesday here: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

What we’re covering:

1:26 – What’s the best way to keep material from unraveling

8:13 – Preparing fabric for your next sewing project

11:50 – Do you starch fabric ...

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May 10, 2023
WIP WEDNESDAY #90: Cutting fabric on grain, bag straps & a course sale! from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa is answering presubmitted questions.

First up, she tackles the challenge of making smooth bag straps. With her tips, your bag straps will be smooth and sturdy, making your finished project look more professional.

Vanessa then shares her advice on how to cut fabric on grain from yardage, and tackles the task of cutting 10″ x 10″ squares from yardage.

And finally this episode wraps up by showcasing about a tote bag sewing project that doesn’t need to be “birthed.”

• Submit your own question to be answered on a future WIP Wednesday here: https ...

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April 26, 2023
WIP Wednesday #89: Zipper foot tips, fusible interfacing uses & more! from Crafty Gemini

Welcome to another WIP Wednesday episode! In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa is answering presubmitted questions about:

– zipper feet differences and tips
– how to use zipper foot for topstitching
– besides bag linings what else to use Fashion Fuse for?

First up, zipper feet! Depending on the type of zipper and fabric you’re working with, you may need to use a different type of zipper foot. Vanessa will be sharing some tips and tricks to help you select the right foot for your project and how to use it effectively. So, if you’re struggling with inserting zippers or achieving ...

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April 19, 2023
WIP Wednesday #88: Ruler stickers & zipper foot questions answered!! from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa is answering presubmitted questions about:

– how to cut a lot of the same fabric pieces out without messing up
– how to mark your rulers so you know where to measure and cut
– how to work around different zipper feet
– zipper foot seam allowances

We also now carry Sew Hungry Hippie’s Soft Vinyl! We sell this buttery soft fabric in 10+ color ways and have sold out several times already. So, if you see something you like, order it while you can here: https://craftygemini.com/product-category/fabric/

This soft vinyl is heavier than ...

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March 16, 2023
WIP Wednesday #84: Straight line quilting, soft vinyl, zippers and denim from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa is answering presubmitted questions about:

– sewing denim on a computerized JUKI sewing machine

– zipper foot seam allowances

– quilting through different battings and interfacings and

– how to straight line quilt through soft vinyl.

We also now carry Sew Hungry Hippie’s Soft Vinyl! We sell this buttery soft fabric in 10+ color ways and have sold out several times already. So, if you see something you like, order it while you can here: https://craftygemini.com/product-category/fabric/

This soft vinyl is heavier than quilting cotton but softer and lighter than cork fabric. It’s ...

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January 19, 2023
WIP Wednesday #78: What sewing thread to use? How to keep fabric from fraying? from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding what sewing thread to use for bags, what is a good all purpose sewing thread to have on hand, how to tension top and bobbin threads, and how to keep fabric edges from fraying.

Whether you’re sewing your first project or a seasoned veteran of the craft, having the right information about thread and fabrics is essential. Knowing the difference between types of thread, when to use what type of thread, and how to treat different fabrics can make all the difference ...

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January 12, 2023
WIP Wednesday #77: Plastic snaps, uneven fabric & seam allowance tips! from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding plastic snap installation and removal, uneven fabrics when sewing and seam allowance tips. Join us and maybe you’ll pick up a few tips that will help you, too!

Vanessa is answering pre-submitted questions. If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Questions answered:

2:15 – How to install a snap

13:38 – How to remove an incorrectly installed snap

20:05 – Tips ...

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January 5, 2023
WIP Wednesday #76: Fabric prep, needles & quilting tips from Crafty Gemini

In this episode of WIP Wednesday Vanessa will answer questions that have been submitted by viewers regarding fabric prep, sewing machine needles, quilt batting and quilt binding. Join us and maybe you’ll pick up a few tips that will help you, too!

Vanessa is answering pre-submitted questions. If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Questions answered:

3:37 – Why do we always have to wash and dry fabric before we start a project?

16:00 – How do you ...

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November 4, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #71: We’re back & your questions answered! from Crafty Gemini

Welcome back to WIP Wednesday! In this episode Vanessa is answering your questions!

If you’d like to submit a sewing/quilting question for Vanessa to answer on a future WIP Wednesday episode please use this form: https://forms.gle/D2qMCVJxfAgJHvWb7

Please note the new time: Wednesdays at 7:00pm ET/6:00pm CT

This week we’re talking about sewing straight seams, avoiding distorted bias cut fabric edges and a fun table runner project featuring my 10″ slicer ruler.

Products and projects mentioned & used:

• Order your 10″ Slicer ruler here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Peak Block tutorial: https ...

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May 12, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #67: Bag Maker Subscription Box- Round 2 is now open! from Crafty Gemini

In today’s episode Vanessa will talk about her Bag Maker Subscription Box program! We will review the last 3 bag projects made and answer questions about the next round.

** Join the next round of the program here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bag-maker-subscription-box-june-to-aug-2022/

Past projects are available individually:
** Insulated Lunchbox Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/insulated-lunchbox-video-course/
** Sew Together Bag Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/sew-together-bag-by-sew-demented-video-course/
** Zippy Bags Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/zippy-bags-by-sallie-tomato-video-course/

Products and projects mentioned & used:

• Join the next round of the program here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/bag-maker-subscription-box-june-to-aug-2022/

• Insulated Lunchbox Course: https://craftygemini.com/shop/insulated-lunchbox-video-course/

• Accompanying ...

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April 28, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #66: Fusible Powder vs Spray Basting- What’s better? from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will share her experience with using both fusible basting spray and a fusible powder. After several of you suggested the fusible powder in last week’s episode (WIP WEDNESDAY #65) we decided to give it a try and I’m back to share my results and do a demo for you!

** Order your Free Fuse Fusible Powder here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/quilters-select-free-fuse-fusible-powder-2oz/

** Sulky 4.23-Ounce Temporary Spray Adhesive (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/2QqRmOk

** Subscribe to the newsletter for updates on future WIP Wednesdays, classes and clubs: https://craftygemini.com/newsletter/

Products and projects ...

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April 7, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #64: Samosa Quilt Block Demo with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will teach you how to make the Samosa Quilt Block using her 10″ Slicer ruler. All you need are 10″ squares of fabric and the ruler and you are good to go! Whip up a quilt in no time.

• Get your 10″ Slicer ruler here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Samosa Quilt Along Videos here: https://craftygemini.com/2019/02/samosa-quilt-along-video-1.html

• Subscribe to the newsletter for updates: https://craftygemini.com/newsletter/

Products and projects used:

• 10″ Slicer Quilting Ruler & Template: https://craftygemini.com/shop/10-inch-slicer-quilting-template/

• Samosa Quilt Along: https://craftygemini.com/2019/02/samosa-quilt-along-video-1 ...

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March 30, 2022
WIP Wednesday #63: Faux Leather Zipper Pouch with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In today’s demo Vanessa will teach you how to make a cute little pinched zipper pouch. I call it a pinched zipper pouch because a little pinch in the fabric is all it takes to make a flat bottom. So easy!

This project is great to give as a gift and once you make a few you can make them in just a few minutes.

If you need some faux leather sheets and zippers be sure to grab a kit from the Crafty Gemini Shop here: https://craftygemini.com/shop/3-pack-for-pinched-zipper-pouch/

Read the blog post for this project: https ...

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March 10, 2022
WIP WEDNESDAY #61: Tips for adding a false bottom to a bag with Crafty Gemini from Crafty Gemini

In this WIP Wednesday episode Vanessa will share tips for making a false bottom (a.k.a- a hard bottom) for your bag projects.

The February 2022 project in the Crafty Gemini Bag Maker Subscription Box was an insulated lunch box that came with a piece of template plastic for use as a false bottom. A false bottom helps give bag projects more structure and a more rigid bottom so the fabric layers don’t buckle with added weight inside the bag.

Tune in to learn what types of materials you could use to create your own false bottoms as ...

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February 24, 2022
WIP Wednesday #59: Crafty Gemini’s Iron & Pressing Tips from Crafty Gemini

In this episode Vanessa chats about her top ironing/pressing tips! Let’s discuss small travel irons and larger ones and what their pros and cons are. How to get crisp folds and creases in your projects. Pressing cotton and synthetic fabrics and more!

Products and projects used:

• Steamfast Small Travel Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/36AfI0R

• Sunbeam Small Travel Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3BOeFWK

• T-Fal 1800 Watt Iron (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3pchADw

• Tailor’s Clapper: https://craftygemini.com/shop/small-tailors-clapper/

• JUKI HZL- LB5020 Sewing Machine: https://craftygemini.com/shop/juki-hzl-lb5020-sewing-machine/

• Martelli Round About 3-Piece ...

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January 27, 2022
WIP Wednesday #56: Easy little wallet from Crafty Gemini

Make this fun and easy little wallet with me! It only takes a few minutes and two seams! I think you’re gonna love it!

Need supplies? Check out the faux leather sheet bundles we’ve put together for you in our shop:

I’m also announcing my new Crafty Gemini Bag Maker Subscription Box! Signups are only open until the end of the month. If you want to learn more click here.

Products and projects used:

• 4-Pack of Faux Leather for Kendall Snap Pouch: https://craftygemini ...

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