Author: Olga Balasa

Hi, I am Olga. I'm passionate about sewing, quilting, and embroidery, and I want to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with others who are interested in learning how to sew. Thank you for making me part of your day - I'm so very excited to have friends like you by my side. Feel free to comment or reach out with any questions - my email is [email protected] If you want more information about me or my site please visit my About page

Sewing tips and techniques

30 Sewing Hacks That Turn Ordinary Items into Useful Sewing Tools
ByOlga Balasa June 8, 2026July 10, 2026

Think you need expensive gadgets to sew more efficiently? Think again. These 30 practical sewing hacks show how everyday household items can double as useful sewing tools. From using soap slivers for fabric marking and dental floss for gathering to organizing thread with hair ties and storing bias tape on cardboard tubes, these clever ideas help solve common sewing problems while saving time and money. Perfect for beginners and experienced sewists alike.

Read More 30 Sewing Hacks That Turn Ordinary Items into Useful Sewing Tools
Sewing tips and techniques

Seam Allowances in Sewing Patterns: What They Are and How to Use Them
ByOlga Balasa June 5, 2026June 5, 2026

Seam allowances can make or break a sewing project. This guide explains what they are, how to check if they are included, why sizes vary, and how to add them when needed. It also covers trimming, clipping, grading, and pressing seams for better results.

Read More Seam Allowances in Sewing Patterns: What They Are and How to Use Them
Sewing tips and techniques

What Do You Call a Person Who Sews? I Asked My Readers and Got 1,408 Opinions
ByOlga Balasa June 2, 2026June 2, 2026

A lighthearted sewing article about the word debate nobody expects to have: what do you call a person who sews? Sewist, seamstress, tailor, stitcher, needleworker, or that troublesome word “sewer”? This post looks at the meanings, the funny confusion, a reader poll, and why many modern sewing lovers prefer “sewist.” It also includes playful reader suggestions from the poll, from fabric artist to sewing wizard. A fun read for anyone who loves sewing, fabric, and words that make spell check nervous.

Read More What Do You Call a Person Who Sews? I Asked My Readers and Got 1,408 Opinions
Sewing projects

DIY Round Purse: PDF Sewing Pattern and Detailed Instructions
ByOlga Balasa May 29, 2026May 29, 2026

A round purse looks fancy, but it comes together from simple parts: two quilted circles, a zipper gusset, a bottom gusset, and a shoulder strap. The dresden plate front gives the bag its bold handmade look, while the foam stabilizer helps it hold its shape. This project is a fun way to sew a circle purse that feels useful, colorful, and a little unexpected.

Read More DIY Round Purse: PDF Sewing Pattern and Detailed Instructions
Sewing equipment

Mini Wonder Clips By Clover: Useful Sewing Tool Or Just Another Notion?
ByOlga Balasa May 26, 2026May 26, 2026

The article introduces Mini Wonder Clips by Clover and shows how these tiny sewing clips can help with projects where pins are not the best choice.

Read More Mini Wonder Clips By Clover: Useful Sewing Tool Or Just Another Notion?
Sewing equipment

Non-Slip Grips For Quilting Rulers: A Small Notion With A Useful Job
ByOlga Balasa May 26, 2026May 26, 2026

Non-slip grips for rulers help acrylic quilting rulers stay steady during rotary cutting. This post explains how they work, where to place them, and why thin grips matter. You’ll also see why some thicker grips can cause wobbling instead of better control.

Read More Non-Slip Grips For Quilting Rulers: A Small Notion With A Useful Job