Tutorials

From time to time, I prepare and publish brief tutorials. Most are about quilt construction and design, but do not be surprised to find one or two on general or even unusual sewing topics.




Quilting by Tacking

Detail of "Mosaic," a Design Lines quilt by Dena Crain

Detail of “Mosaic,” a work in progress

Quilt quickly and without marking by bar tacking with your sewing machine!




Quilting Backwards

Reverse stitching with a shift turn

Quilt in two directions without breaking your stitching

Learn how to fill a large or small area of your quilt with continuous stitching by stitching forwards – and backwards!




What Makes an African Quilt “African?”

Rhythms Detail

Discover the special qualities of an African quilt

From color to texture, from imagery to embellishments, African quilts have a character uniquely their own. Difficult to define, this quality is one that is instantly recognized the world over. Read one artist’s description what it takes to make an African quilt. Jambo!




Seamless Quilt Binding

Seamless Quilt Binding

Piece quilt bindings only at mitered corners for a smooth, professional look.

If you are working with a solid color quilt binding or one made from a satiny fabric, or if you simply admire the tidiness of a continuous quilt binding, this tutorial can show you how to make and apply a binding which is seamed only within the mitered corners. Easy enough for anyone to do!




Fusible Patterns for Art Quilts

Fusible Patterns for Art Quilts

Fuse the perfect quilt pattern

Learn how to use fusible interfacing rather than freezer paper to make a pattern that is soft, supple, and remains permanently within the quilt. A perfect foundation for any art quilt!




How to Make a Mosquito Net

Hanging mosquito net

Sleep in safety and comfort in the tropics

Discover an excellent design for a mosquito-proof net. Make one and carry it with you for camping trips, or teach my method to a local fundi who can produce them by the truckload. Personal health is a most important concern, and this net design, if used properly, will definitely protect you and your loved ones from all biting insects while you sleep.




Feel free to share my free online tutorials with your friends, but please respect my copyrights. Refer your friends to this page rather than teaching them my techniques yourself or printing out multiple copies to pass along. Thanks for your consideration. Now, read on, enjoy, and hopefully learn something new!
Dena Crain


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