Sewing

Patterns, Techniques, Articles, Blogs, and other resources to learn how to sew

A huge thank you

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craft-gossip-thank-you

This morning I woke up to find a surprise party thrown in my honor.  I’ve only had one other surprise party, that one last summer when I turned the big 4-0 and my daughter and my mother hosted a surprise birthday lunch for me.  I kinda knew that one was going to happen because no one told my husband about the “surprise” part of the party.  Ha!

But this morning’s surprise party was a totally different kind.  A sewing blogger surprise party.  For me. Just because.

Just because sewing and craft bloggers are some of the most supportive, creative, generous people I know.

You can see all the posts in this Pinterest board.  (There’s a Pinterest board me for me, y’all.  I can’t even.)  Go there and click every single post, not because I’m being braggy but because these posts all have clever tips and cool tutorials and round-ups on them.

Because that’s how awesome these ladies are.

Here’s the thing.  The reason I love my Craft Gossip gig, the reason I tell people I have the best job EVER, is that it allows me to be part of that creative community, even if only vicariously by featuring amazing things others are doing.  I learn new sewing techniques, get inspired by seeing what fabulousness they are making, and I get to call it “work”.  My personal sewing to-do list is ridiculously long because I add 2-3 things to it every day.

I have met the most wonderful people through Craft Gossip.  And for bloggers in this community, who have shared so much of their time and creativity to inspire others, to say Thank You to me is the hugest, sweetest honor. I keep pinching myself.

I am feeling the love today, y’all.

Truly.  Thank you.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

Comments

  5. (Sorry, disregard the first comment–it didn’t make sense 🙂 )

    Anne, you are wonderful. Thank you for helping us all out over the years! You are amazing. Thank you and I love this post :).

  17. Happy birthday! I love all the things you post. Every day I add so many things to my “want to do” list. Sewing, crochet, papercrafts, mixed media art…you name it and y’all keep me inspired. I can’t thank you enough for it. I hope you have (had?) the best birthday yet and that it’s the start of the best years of your life.

Have you read?

Sewing for Seniors: A Roundup of Practical Patterns for Aged Care and Dementia

As a caregiver to an elderly parent navigating the challenges of aging and dementia, I’ve found myself on a mission to create thoughtful, practical items that assist in everyday care while maintaining a sense of dignity and comfort. Over the years, my sewing projects have shifted from creating cute clothes for my children to sewing things that support my parents through their later years. It’s not always easy, and it can be heartbreaking at times, but crafting these items has brought a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

If you’re in a similar situation and looking for sewing patterns and tutorials to support your loved one, whether they are in a wheelchair, dealing with dementia, or simply needing adaptive clothing, this roundup is for you. These patterns offer solutions to daily challenges, from sensory stimulation to maintaining dignity and comfort. 

Adult dignity bib 

When caring for someone with dementia, eating can often become a messy experience. An adult dignity bib offers a simple but effective way to help prevent spills and ensure that your loved one remains comfortable and clean during mealtime. This pattern provides a great way to create a stylish and practical solution for dignity and comfort.

How to Turn a Plush into a Weighted Toy  

Weighted toys can be a calming and comforting tool for seniors, especially those experiencing anxiety or agitation. This tutorial shows you how to transform a soft plush toy into a weighted sensory item, offering soothing pressure and comfort to help relax your loved one. It’s a great way to create a personalized, comforting toy that provides sensory input.

Eye Pillow – Weighted 

Tulip Walker Tote Bag 

Special Needs Bib Pattern — CraftBits.com 

Make a Fidget Quilt with Rob! 

Fidget quilts are fantastic tools for dementia patients, offering tactile stimulation and promoting calmness. In this video tutorial, Rob guides you through the process of making a fidget quilt, showing you how to add various textures, buttons, zippers, and other engaging features to keep your loved one’s hands busy and focused

Making Fidget Quilts for Dementia Patients | Madam Sew – MadamSew

How to sew a fidget quilt 

How to Make a DIY Lycra Sensory Bed Sheet | And Next Comes L – Hyperlexia Resources

Lycra sensory bed sheets are an excellent choice for providing calming pressure during sleep. This pattern from And Next Comes L explains how to make a DIY Lycra sensory bed sheet that can help your loved one feel secure and relaxed while they sleep, which is especially useful for those with sensory processing issues.

Wheelchair And Walker Carry Bag Sewing Pattern

Tutorial: No-sew adaptive sweatshirt for wheelchair users 

Tutorial: Adult-sized bib – Sewing

How to Make a Fidget Blanket 

Sewing pattern: How to Make a Fidget Quilt 

How to Make an Adult Pocket Diaper

For individuals who need additional care in maintaining hygiene, adult pocket diapers can be a game-changer. This pattern teaches you how to create a comfortable, functional pocket diaper, ensuring your loved one stays dry and comfortable throughout the day.

How to Sew an Adult Front Closure Swim Diaper 

How to Sew a Fitted Adult Cloth Diaper

For those looking for an eco-friendly and budget-conscious option, sewing a fitted adult cloth diaper can be a great solution. This pattern offers detailed instructions for creating a well-fitting, reusable cloth diaper for adults who need additional support.

The Linda Pants – Free Adaptive Sewing Pattern

Adapting Creatively: Wheelchair Rain Poncho Tutorial

This wheelchair rain poncho is a practical and thoughtful accessory for wheelchair users. This tutorial shows you how to make a poncho that will keep your loved one dry while they’re out and about, ensuring they stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

Adapting Creatively: Split-back Wheelchair Jacket

 Weighted Blanket

Weighted Lap Pad

For those who need a little extra calming weight throughout the day, a weighted lap pad is an ideal choice. This simple but effective pattern helps you create a lap pad that can be placed on your loved one’s lap for a soothing, calming effect that promotes relaxation and comfort.