Project Runway Fashion and Figure Drawing Set

I like to do more than sew. I like to design. I mostly design clothing, but I will occasionally design other items. I usually just use a pencil and a sketch pad when designing dresses and other garments, but this isn't always an easy thing to do for a beginner. In fact, a creative friend of mine wanted to begin designing, but she needed a little more help than pen and paper could provide.

Imagine my delight when I came across the Project Runway Fashion and Figure Drawing Set. This set, which comes with a 12" wooden mannequin, also has step-by-step instructions for designing the garments of your dreams. In addition, it comes complete with paper, colored pencils, and eraser, and a sharpening paddle. In a word, it's perfect for the budding designer.

My friend certainly loves it and is using it to learn to design. It can also be used by younger children. I would recommend it for anyone under the age of 8 years, and certainly not for under 3 years due to small parts (choking hazards, you know). If you're looking for a product that helps you learn a little about fashion design, this should be on your list.

Colette Patterns

As a seamstress, I use both my own sewing patterns and those patterns created by others. For this reason, I'm always on the lookout for excellent patterns. I thought I had all the best sewing pattern sites bookmarked until I came across Colette Patterns. These clothing patterns were absolutely perfect. I couldn't believe I hadn't found this site before now.

The patterns are breathtaking with easy to follow instructions. They're vintage-inspired, but designed to be comfortable for modern men and women. Beautiful and unique, these patterns have served as inspiration for some of my own newer creations.

It's not just the styles that caught my attention. It's the quality of the patterns themselves. The patterns I've ordered have come in printed booklets with linen covers and even stitched bindings. A very nice touch and reminiscent of days gone by. They even include a glossary of sewing terms so even beginners will be able to follow the included instructions.

I love the patterns and recommend them for anyone interested in patterns that appear vintage but are much more comfortable and designed for the modern wearer.

Sizzix Big Shot Pro

I'm always looking for products to make my life easier, so when a friend suggested I try her Sizzix Big Shot Pro for all my cutting and embossing needs, I jumped at the opportunity. I fell in love immediately with the versatile machine. I could suddenly personalize garments, home-decor items, and all manner of accessories quickly and easily. It cut my fabric into applique shapes without any fuss and was generally a joy to use.

The Big Shot Pro features a 13" wide opening. This means I can use it to cut or emboss virtually anything. For a few projects I did require some of the optional accessories, which my friend luckily had already. These accessories widened my ability to create new and unique items. Though I mostly used the machine for garments (since this is the focus of my business), I also tried it out when making accessories for my home. Mostly pillows, and let me tell you, I created some lovely pillows with this machine. Most of them have since been stolen by my friends and family, so it looks like more pillows are in my immediate future.

I was so happy with the Sizzix Big Shot Pro that I couldn't help but purchase my own, plus accessories. It was well worth every penny, and I'm currently designed new and unique products with this machine in mind.