You Asked 4 It Survey: What Would You Like To See on S4H?

We get lots of wonderful emails from S4H fans, and often they include ideas for projects or techniques. As we plan our Editorial Calendar for the balance of the year, we thought we'd officially ask everyone: What kind of project would you love to see? Is there a specific technique or tool you'd like to learn about?

We always have a bowl chockfull of ideas to dip into, and we keep track of the latest trends, colors and designs – online as well as in books, catalogs and magazines, even on the fashion runways and in the latest TV shows. But, we also want to make sure we continue to bring our fans and followers the type of inspiration and information you're looking for.

What would you like to make? Which projects are the ones that not only inspire you to turn on your machine but also make you want to share that project with your friends and family? Are there techniques you've always wondered about? Is there a tool or notion you wish you knew how to use? Inquiring minds want to know.

It could be a specific idea, like, "I wish you'd do an ipad case." Or, it might be a general theme you'd like us to explore, such as, "I would love to see a baby boy nursery." Maybe there's interesting person you'd like to learn more about. Or, a tool you've seen at the store and wondered what it was for.

Simply leave a short comment on this article and tell us what would make your day.

This isn't a contest; it's simply our way to reach out to you and collect your opinions. Then, we'll put the most popular and/or interesting ideas into the mix and serve it all back to you with our signature Sew4Home style. Our new series will be called: "You Asked 4 It!"

There isn't a specific deadline for comments; we won't shut down the collection process on a certain day. But the sooner you let us know what you'd love to see, the sooner we can consider it for the Calendar. Thanks!

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Interviews & Inspirations

Comments (133)

Debbie A said:

I am looking for patterns covers need these Kindle, IPhone, IPad & no I do't have these so I don't have the sizes! However I's like to make the covers for gifts for family & friends!

Liz Johnson.Editor.Sew4Home said:

We have two -- one for the eReaders: http://www.sew4home.com/projects/storage-solutions/kissing-booth-ereader...

One for a iPad: http://www.sew4home.com/projects/storage-solutions/fathers-day-ipad-slee...

And this bag fits a laptop: http://www.sew4home.com/projects/storage-solutions/freespirit-rowan-1010...

Katie B. said:

A puppy shaped rag quilt pattern smilies/cheesy.gif

and different types of baby carriers and wrays would be awesome!

Tpeaster said:

Breastfeeding dresses. Right now I double the top front portion of the pattern and sew together leaving the outer part open at the bottom where I put elastic at and the under bottom portion gets two boob holes but i can't seem to perfect the fit. Maybe you guys can come up with someone more unique. clasps at the straps? I make my dresses maxi style and modest without sleeves and not baggy. i'm a 27 year old nursing mama.

Grammy Linda said:

You site is great. I would also like to get more info. on how to use my serger, like the basics and then more detailed stitches and patterns. Thanks for all the great patterns and tips.

JenM1978 said:

I love fat quarters! My local Wal-marts sell the most fantastic selection of fat quarters at great prices and I'm always in looking at their colours and patterns and dreaming ways to showcase them. I would love to see more useful fat quarter projects. I have plenty of purse patterns using fat quarters but would love to see what else I can do with those lovely fat quarters!

Judy Blinkenberg said:

I would like to see simple, clear instructions for finishing the binding on the edge of the quilt. It's one of the last steps with very few tutorials available. Thank You.

Sharon W said:

Pattern making and how to choose the right sewing machine for your needs.

Karen in VA said:

1. Sewing with knits.
2. Learning about machine attachments (i.e. sewing feet)
3. Quick projects to use up scraps.

jennyy said:

Yes, I also vote for how to sew knits without a serger. A simple short sleeve t-shirt tutorial would be wonderful!

Nancy B said:

I would love to see patterns and info about making projects from wool such as table runners, small wall hangings, etc.

Tracy S. said:

I've been a fan of this site for awhile now. I always check here for some great gift ideas and have made many.
I am a Family & Consumer Sciences teacher and it is becoming increasingly difficult to access fabric for my students to not only learn to sew, but to make a project they can either keep for themselves, give as gifts or donate to charity (which we do quite a bit).
I am wondering if you could provide more ideas on fabric recycling, especially for worn out jeans? They seem to be in abundance and kids may be willing to bring them in if they had a cool, easy and useful project to create out of them.
Thanks so much.

Liz Johnson.Editor.Sew4Home said:

@ I love this site smilies/grin.gif

- Boy ... I don't have a clue about this technique, but I wish I did - it sounds awesome. The only thing I can imagine is that she was demonstrating on multiple layers or a very thick fabric, so she wasn't actually stitching all the way through other than the one stitch you mention. Perhaps she stitched that one stitch and then carefully pulled the thread between layers or within the thickness of the weave the rest of the time. smilies/tongue.gif

I love this site said:

I had a sewing teacher show the class how to hand sew a button on and she pricked the material on the front and only put the needle through the back once, so there was only on stitch on the back of the fabric without a lot of stitches bunched up on the back. It greatly improved the looks of say the lapel of a coat. I forgot how she did it and upon searching sewing sites and books I could never find the answer. Do you have a clue.

Michele Irene said:

I would love to see projects using a felting machine. Some of the projects I see are not really attractive, but you all do things so well, I know you would come up with something great!

Also, how about ideas for modern crazy quilting? This would be a great application of the multitude of stitches that our machines are capable of. I would love to make a modern looking black white and red crazy quilt.
Thanks for all you do!

Leda said:

I really would like to know how to make luggage tags. I LOVE this site. The fabrics and ideas are wonderful!!!!

Sherri leonard said:

I would love to learn shirring or sewing with elastic. Also how to sew on knits. Thanks!

mcclungsk said:

Wow! First time on your site and I've been here for hours. Your site is amazing, I can hardly believe what I've learned today! I really appreciate the link to the Crafty Chica blog - she is awesome. I think if there was anything I did not find that would be great, is home projects for folks with disabilities. There are sites out there with tons of things I can buy, but no patterns/tutorials that I can use to make them. Anything you might think of would be wonderful.

LCO said:

One more suggestion - some projects using ribbons. I have a lot of pretty ribbons at home that I bought on sale, but don't know what to do with them! smilies/grin.gif

Griz said:

Sewing with Knits

Amber Z said:

I would love to learn how to make slip cover for a couch.
Would love to have the option of a video tutorial.

Thanks for such a great website!

Mickeygr said:

I would love to see some hand embroidery projects and patterns!

mamamia78550 said:

I would like to learn to make pet accessories. Collars,leashes, toys and items for the car (travel)

Carole G said:

I would love something on pattern alteration. I am an older woman and have a large waist, but hips and legs are OK. I can't buy even anything at the store that fits properly and looks good. smilies/cry.gif

HELP

Christy S said:

I'd love to learn more about sewing knits, working with elastic thread. I just ask that everything not be kid-centric as it is not currently like that. I would hate to see that change. I love your site as is.

sophiecai said:

I would like to see tutorials on how to make beautiful t-shirts & skirts, since summer is comming smilies/grin.gif

NisNaz said:

Love this site...as a beginner sewing enthusiast, I love learning the how-to's on so many projects. I'm currently making the nursing cover and will soon start on the car caddy.

Since I'm new to sewing (and have a very basic Singer machine), I wonder if the sewing machine needs a scheduled maintenance...like cleaning up parts (bobbin area, etc.), how often should one change needles, different types of needles needed for different projects, tutorial on zippers and how to use the zipper feet, infant/toddler clothes/toys/dolls/etc, what fabrics we can substitute for projects and also an indept or monthly post on types of fabrics and how to recognize which fabric would work best for which projects.

That's all that I can think of right now. Thanks for asking.

SharonE said:

I'd love to see a detailed discussion about how to select (and make) window treatments to deal with "problem" windows and rooms. And by "problem", I mean the kind of cheezy windows one finds in apartments, tiny tract houses, and rental houses. It's not too hard (just expensive) to come up with beautiful window treatments for the big windows one finds in a new MacMansion. However, what does one do with a picture window that takes up nearly the whole wall in a tiny living room in a tiny ranch, when that's the only place where the sofa will fit, and the window proportions are totally wrong? So, some guidelines about how to use fabric, color, proportion to balance less-than-ideal spaces and furniture would be terrific! Thank you!

matilda116 said:

I finally up graded my machine and I am so excited 60 stitches! I have never had so many stitches before! My big challenge is what do they all do and when do I use them? I would love a posting about stitches on the machine, more then the basic zig zag and edge finishing stitch please!

DiLaughing said:

As a sewist with what I would call intermediate skills, I would love to see a project tutorial series that shows the same project done three ways for three different skill levels. I sometimes see projects that I would not be comfortable making because I lack the expert skills, but if the same basic project could be completed with a little less detail, or with fewer embellishments, etc., I would be more comfortable tackling it. This would allow people of all skill levels to achieve the same look without having to worry about whether they can get through the project. It would also allow people don't have a lot of time to spend, to finish a satisfying project in a reasonable amount of time, while those who have the luxury of more time, can go all out.

For example, a complete project that is a basic patchwork pillow for a beginner; then the same pillow with a more intricate pattern or perhaps applique, or piping, or maybe fringe for an intermediate sewist; and finally, the same pillow with all the bells and whistles that an expert can bring to the table.

LindaF said:

I would love to see any information on sewing knits, and sewing gifts, that are modern and a bit funky.

but anything you come up with will be awesome - thankyou

Janet P said:

I would like to see more home dec projects. Especially upholstery projects.

Dreamsofseams said:

I love this site and I was just waiting for this opportunity! Here's my list:

* Artist Portfolio (Extra Large) with Re-inforced Handle (attached to hidden metal/wood rod, rather than straining fabric)

* Artist Brush Holder

* Artist Smock with 3-Stepped (long brushes fit and touch bottom, next level shorter brushes, etc.) Detachable Brush Holder

* Extra Large Artist Tote Bag with 2 Compartments for Paints and Brush Holder on Outside

* Collapsible Boxes with Removable Inserts

* Filing Cabinet Covers

* Furniture Runners

* Wall-Hanging File Holder with 10 - 20 Compartments

* Binder Covers

* Kitchen Utensil Holder Covers

* Thermal Backpacks

* Guitar Straps

* Arthritis/Crafting Gloves

An article on fine work such as 1/8" seam edges, using fine lingerie lace/elastic, making Barbie clothes and clothing with intravenous access (for infused medications) would also be welcome.

Sew4Home is awesome and I can't wait to see spring's new projects!

Esmeralda said:

I just got my first serger and would love to see tutorials/patterns to use with my serger. : )

NaomiG said:

I would LOVE to see clothing patterns and ideas for slip covers for chairs/couches/loveseats! I love your site! It is so helpful and full of creative ideas!!!!!!!

Tamara82 said:

Elastic!!! I would love to see a tutorial on how to sew elastic into clothes, bags, you name it!

gmitchel said:

Here's a tip for ROUND CORNER PLACEMATS - try using a large dinner plate or platter with a rounded edge and trace around it to make a paper pattern. You can use either newspaper, flattened paper bags or craft paper. Worked great for me in making the pattern.

As far as tutorials, I too would like to see more about SERGERS, and bags, including e-readers, IPads and cell phones.

I came across your site a couple of months ago and have already made several wonderful table items, baby and nursery items, stuffed soft toys, sewing machine covers and the list goes on and on. Love the site, love the humor and thanks for asking!

wezecapecod said:

i would like to see more down to eath colors not the brite stuff i am a bite tired of it all . doesn't fit my home style. more home made things like easy curtains and so on that will not take allot of fabric as it has gone up allot per yard.

Belinda G said:

Creative ideas for using the decorative stitches on our machines. How to use different sewing machine feet. Overview of various machine features & why you want them (ie needle positions, needle up/down, pattern repeat, one stitch at a time, variable stitch width, etc).
Tips for working with more difficult fabrics, knits, minky, satins, etc.

Jan/Ohio said:

I've read thru all the comments and I love all of them! This should keep Sew4Home in articles for years! I also would like a zipper tutorial. I also quilt and do bags (like the lady said....bags, bags, & more bags!) I'd like some patterns for Kindle & laptop cases. Like everyone before me, I love Sew4Home! I can't wait to see what comes next!

orangesugar said:

I would like to see a pattern for a bolster dog bed similar to this (http://tinyurl.com/4r4c9vt) or this (http://tinyurl.com/4f74a75). I can't find any tutorials online and dog beds are so expensive. I'm trying to make one now and there has to be an easier way to do this.

I'm not sure if this goes along with the theme of your site but I would love to see a beginner series on how to sew clothing. I can sew other things but clothing just seems so complicated.

SusanDrOh said:

I'm thinking of making Roman shades for my living and dining rooms. Would love a tutorial on that.

Kylie said:

Love an iPad case. iPad 1 is cool - I won't be upgrading this time around!

On other bits and pieces - packing cubes, like the ones from Eagle Creek. I would like some pretty ones for when I travel and I can't work it out! An travel bags of all types.

Tammie said:

- I would like to see something about picking style of curtains -- adding the design eye to the functional making of the curtain. The plan for the project.

- I love what you guys do - and the fabrics!

KIM SANTRE said:

I WOULD LOVE THE PATTERN FOR APRONS TO GIVE PRINTOUTS FOR LARGE SIZE WOMEN IN 1X-3X

ALSO AN EASIER TUTORIAL FOR ADDING ZIPPERS, THEY ARE MY DOWNFALL!!! I REALLY HATE TO PUT ONE IN

I JUST LOVE GOING ON YOUR WEBSITE WEEKLY TO FIND NEW THINGS TO SEW. IT'S THE BEST WEBSITE EVER THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME SO MUCH!!!!

Dstme said:

I would love to see the patterns and instructions in a PDF format that didn't require printing as the cost of print ink is going higher and higher. It would be wonderful to be able to download the material and have it available as we work on projects offline.

Please consider, I love this site but find printing out all of the things that I love that you provide, cost prohibited.

chrstn_rm said:

How about a tutorial on a shopping cart cover for babies and toddlers?

smgdinsmore said:

I have an issue with ruffles, I follow the directions to make the stitch long and that it either ruffles on its own or to pull and I can never get it to work.
-Stefanie
2ndChanceCreations.etsy.com

pinsandneedles said:

I would like to see more small and simple sewing projects that would help me use up my stash of fabric scraps.

Tammie said:

I'd like to see how to finish hems to look really professional. How to make things not look homemade.

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