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Holiday Inspired Quilting Ideas

This holiday season, embrace the warmth of creativity and embark on festive quilting adventures with inspiration from Sunshine Coast quilting workshops. Elevate your seasonal décor and gift-giving with these holiday quilting ideas that capture the spirit of Christmas.

Festive Table Runners: Craft a captivating table runner adorned with holiday motifs and colours. Quilting workshops can guide you in choosing seasonal fabrics and patterns, creating a beautiful centrepiece for your holiday gatherings.

Patchwork Ornaments: Stitch together charming patchwork ornaments to add a handmade touch to your tree. Whether it’s miniature stockings, snowflakes, or festive animals, quilting workshops on the Sunshine Coast provide the skills and inspiration to create personalised decorations.

Cosy Winter Throws: Embrace the chilly evenings with a cosy winter throw. Quilting workshops offer insights into selecting warm fabrics and designing patterns that evoke the comfort and joy of the holiday season.

Quilted Advent Calendar: Infuse anticipation into the countdown to Christmas with a quilted advent calendar. Learn techniques from our quilting workshops to create pockets for daily surprises, making each day leading up to Christmas special.

Holiday-themed Wall Hangings: Express your holiday spirit with quilted wall hangings featuring festive scenes or messages. Quilting workshops can guide you in creating personalised and eye-catching wall décor.

Participating in Sunshine Coast quilting workshops not only hones your quilting skills but also provides a communal and festive atmosphere. Join fellow quilting enthusiasts in bringing these holiday quilting ideas to life, stitching joy and warmth into your seasonal celebrations.

Contact the Kimz Sewing team to learn more about our quilting workshops on the Sunshine Coast. Our professional and friendly staff are always happy to help you with any questions you may have. Send us an email at kimzsewing@bigpond.com or pick up the phone and call (07) 5493 4977.

Sunshine Coast Quilting Workshops
CategoriesBernina, Inspiration and Projects, Janome by

Why Sewing Machines Make a Great Christmas Gift

This Christmas, consider a gift that goes beyond the ordinary – a quality sewing machine from Kimz Sewing on the Sunshine Coast. More than just a present, it’s an investment in creativity, personal expression, and the joy of crafting. Here’s why a sewing machine makes the perfect Christmas gift.

Unleash Creativity: A quality sewing machine opens the door to a world of creativity. Whether the recipient is a seasoned seamstress or a novice eager to learn, a sewing machine allows for the creation of personalised, handmade items, from clothing and accessories to home décor.

Empowerment Through Skill-Building: Learning to sew is a valuable skill that promotes self-reliance. A sewing machine gift on the Sunshine Coast provides an opportunity for individuals to develop and enhance their sewing skills, fostering a sense of empowerment and accomplishment.

Customisation and Personalisation: With a sewing machine, the possibilities for customization are endless. From tailoring clothes to creating one-of-a-kind gifts, the recipient can add a personal touch to their creations, making each piece uniquely theirs.

Therapeutic and Relaxing: Sewing has therapeutic benefits, offering a relaxing and meditative outlet for stress relief. The rhythmic hum of a quality sewing machine can provide a calming escape, making it an ideal hobby for unwinding after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: In an era of heightened environmental consciousness, a sewing machine promotes sustainability. The ability to mend, repurpose, and create, reduces reliance on fast fashion and contributes to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

This Christmas, our quality sewing machines on the Sunshine Coast help you give the gift the joy of creativity and self-expression. Whether for a seasoned enthusiast or a budding beginner, it’s a present that keeps on giving, inspiring a world of imaginative possibilities.

Contact the Kimz Sewing team to learn more about all the quality sewing machines and accessories we stock on the Sunshine Coast. Our professional and friendly staff are always happy to help you with any questions you may have. Send us an email at kimzsewing@bigpond.com or pick up the phone and call (07) 5493 4977.

Quality Sewing Machines Sunshine Coast
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Did you know we offer Sewing Machine Servicing on the Sunshine Coast?

Attention all sewing enthusiasts on the Sunshine Coast! If your sewing machine needs some TLC, Kimz Sewing is here to help. We offer professional sewing machine servicing that keeps your beloved equipment running smoothly and efficiently.

At Kimz Sewing, we understand the importance of a well-functioning sewing machine for your creative projects. Visit kimzsewing.com to learn more about our services and how we can keep your machine in top condition.

At Kimz Sewing, we are committed to serving the local sewing community. With years of experience, our skilled sewing machine technician provides thorough inspections, maintenance, and repairs, ensuring that your sewing machine is ready to tackle any project. Whether it’s an annual service or a technical issue with your machine, you can bring it in to our Warana store or call to book it in. Your machine stays on the premises and work is guaranteed by our technician Mitch for 6 months after the date completed.

Don’t let a malfunctioning sewing machine slow down your creative journey. Contact Kimz Sewing for all your sewing machine servicing needs on the Sunshine Coast.

Contact the Kimz Sewing team to learn more about sewing machine servicing on the Sunshine Coast. Our professional and friendly staff are always happy to help you with any questions you may have. Send us an email at kimzsewing@bigpond.com or pick up the phone and call (07) 5493 4977.

Sewing Machine Servicing Sunshine Coast
CategoriesInspiration and Projects by

How to Choose Fabrics for Your Next Patchwork Project

Choosing fabrics for a patchwork project can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available here at Kimz Sewing, our fabric store on the Sunshine Coast. Here are some tips to help you choose the best fabrics for your next patchwork project.

Consider the pattern: The pattern you choose will play a big role in determining which fabrics you need. Look for patterns that specify the type of fabric required, such as cotton or flannel, and take note of any pattern repeat or directional prints that may affect fabric placement.

Clothing Patterns by Sew To Grow

Consider colour and contrast: Think about the overall colour scheme you want to achieve in your project. Consider using a colour wheel to choose complementary or contrasting colours that will make your project pop. You can also use neutrals, such as white or grey, to provide balance and contrast.

Dresden Plate featuring Alison Glass fabric and using Susan Cleveland’s Prairie Pointer

Consider the fabric weight: Different fabrics have different weights, which can affect the drape and overall look of your project. Choose lighter weight fabrics for a more delicate look, and heavier weight fabrics for a more substantial and durable project.

Tilda Pie in the Sky range

Consider texture: Mixing different textures can add visual interest and depth to your project. Consider using fabrics with different finishes, such as matte, shiny, or textured, to create a dynamic and engaging final product.

Sallie Tomato Dorothy Clutch made with glitter vinyl and woven fabric

Consider the washability: If your patchwork project will be frequently used or handled, consider using fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for fabrics that are machine washable and dryable, or that can be spot cleaned with ease.

Hexie Blossom Necklace – English Paper Piecing Project

By considering these factors, you can make informed choices when selecting fabrics for your next patchwork project. Visit our fabric store on the Sunshine Coast to browse our selection and find the perfect fabrics for your project.

Tula Pink Tiny Stripes

Contact us today at Kimz Sewing to learn more about how to choose which fabrics to use for your next patchwork project, and to sign up for our sewing and patchwork classes. Our professional and friendly staff are always happy to help you with any questions you may have. Shoot us an email at kimzsewing@bigpond.com or pick up the phone and call (07) 5493 4977.

CategoriesInspiration and Projects by

Top 3 Sewing Trends

As the world continues to change, so do the trends in sewing. What was once popular may not be anymore, and vice versa. Here are the top three sewing trends that are happening right now.

1. Focus on Comfort

Comfort is key for many people, especially as we spend more time at home. Cozy fabrics and loungewear inspired silhouettes are very popular right now. Look for machine washable fabrics that are soft and comfortable to wear like these flowy rayon prints by Lindsey of Sew to Grow.

Seoul Blossom Blouse
Sycamore Lane Dress
Bondi Top

2. Incorporate Fun Prints

Fun prints are also quite popular, as they can add some personality to your wardrobe. Florals, polka dots, and plaid are all popular choices. If you want to go for a more unique print, you can always find one that speaks to your personal style. You can also experiment with different colour blocking techniques to create a more interesting look.

Whole Lotta Love Rayon
Dazed & Confused Rayon
Rumours Rayon

3. Experiment with Different Textures

One popular sewing trend right now is to experiment with different textures. This can be done by using different fabric types, adding embellishments like beads or crystals, or even using different stitches from your sewing machine like Maddie’s dress below. This is a great way to add interest to your sewing projects, and it can really help you to stand out from the crowd.

Lanti Swing Dress made from Kaffe Fassett fabric
Close up of decorative stitches on the bodice

Contact us today at Kimz Sewing to learn more about sewing trends in Caloundra and to sign up for our sewing classes. Our professional and friendly staff are always happy to help you with any questions you may have. Shoot us an email at kimzsewing@bigpond.com or pick up the phone and call (07) 5493 4977.

Happy Stitching! Kimz Team x

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Show & Tell 2022

What a great morning we had in store for our annual Christmas Party with lots of Show and Tell, yummy food and lovely conversation. See the photos below for all the beautiful work that everyone has done throughout the year.

Dragonfly Quilt by Donna
Jelly Roll Rug by Tina
Exotic Bloom Cushion by Tina
Dahlia Quilt by Sue
Snowman Quilt by Cindy
Kaffe Fassett Quilt by Vernette
Over the Hill by Judith
Project Bag by Vernette
Foxley Village by Wendy
Kaleidoscope Quilt by Sylvia
Bonheur de Jour Quilt by Sylvia
William Morris Hanger by Mary
Flower Quilt by Diane
Clammy Quilt by Patsy
Spice Market by Patsy
Stitchery by Rhona
Reversible Runner by Rhona
Baby Elephant Quilt by Rhona
Teddy Quilt by Rhona
Table Runner by Julie
Christmas Runner by Julie
Kaffe Fassett Runners by Julie
Tree Skirt by Julie
Vintage Quilt by Julie
Pickled Fish by Julie
North Pole Village Tree Skirt by Belinda
Stitchers Garden blocks by Belinda
Carolina Cullotes by Bel
Father Christmas Hanger by Hayley
Tula Nova Quilt by Hayley
Sewing Room Quilt by Hayley
Mini Poppins Bag by Hayley
Twilight Time by Heather
Twilight Time by Christine
Butterfly Bliss Quilt by Angela
Quilt by Angela
Quilt by Angela
Catnip Quilt by Kim
Bowl Me Over bag by Gillian

Can’t wait to see what projects everyone is onto next whether it’s a bag, quilt or clothing, we love to see what you all are making.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Kimz in 2022 and we look forward to a fantastic 2023 with you all.

Happy Sewing everyone!

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The Main Types of Sewing Machines

There are two main types of sewing machines: the mechanical sewing machine and the computerised sewing machine.

The mechanical sewing machine is the most basic type of sewing machine. It has a limited number of built-in stitches. Stitch settings need to be adjusted manually when altering the type of stitch.

Best Mechanical Sewing Machines For Sale Bokarina
Janome MW3018
Best Sewing Machines For Sale
bernette 05 ACADEMY
Sewing Machine Bokarina
Janome HD9
Mechanical Sewing Machines

The computerised sewing machine is more advanced than the mechanical sewing machine, and it is operated by a computer with a variety of stitches and features. Stitch settings are set automatically but can be altered depending on preferences.

Sewing Machines For Sale Maroochydore
Janome DC6050
Sewing Machines For Sale Kawana
bernette 77
Computerised Sewing Machines For Sale Sunshine Coast
Bernina 570QE
Computerised Sewing Machines

Which Type of Sewing Machine is Best For You? 

There are a variety of sewing machines on the market, each with its own set of features and functions. Some sewing machines are designed for specific types of sewing, such as quilting or embroidery, while others are more versatile with a combination of functions. When looking for a sewing machine in Bokarina, consider what kind of sewing you plan to do.

Dressmaking Sewing Machines For Sale Bokarina
Dressmaking with bernette
Embroidery Sewing Machine Bokarina
Embroidery with the Janome MC500E
Quilting Machines For Sale Bokarina
Quilting with the Bernina Q16 with Studio Frame

If you’re just starting out, you may want to consider a simpler sewing machine. A basic sewing machine will have all the essential features needed to sew simple projects. As you become more confident in your sewing skills, you can upgrade to a more advanced computerised sewing machine.

Bokarina Sewing Machine

Are you looking to purchase a sewing machine in the Bokarina area? Visit Kimz Sewing & Patchwork Centre for all your sewing machine needs! We have a team of experienced staff on hand to offer advice and support, so you can be sure you’re choosing the right sewing machine for you. Contact us at (07) 5493 4977 or at kimzsewing@bigpond.com.

Black Friday Sales Maroochydore
CategoriesJanome, What's NEW by

Janome Continental M17 First Impressions

It’s here, it’s here, it’s finally here and man is it impressive. We’ve had a little play with the brand-new Janome Continental M17 Sewing and Embroidery machine and we thought we would share with you our first impressions of this very fine piece of machinery from Janome.

Not one but two!

That’s right, there are two touch screens for your convenience. One touch screen at the top of the machine displays common settings that you would adjust for your stitch, such as needle position, stitch width, tension etc. Use the plus or minus, slide using the blue lines or use the adjustment knobs to the left of the screen. The large touch screen to the left of the machine is your main screen. I must say that this screen is fantastic. It is super clear to read and very user friendly and you can use either a stylus or your finger on the touch screen. There is continuity of the icons from previous models of Janome’s which makes it nice and easy for previous owners to transition to. Having said that, there are quick reference charts to refer to also.

That’s bright!

The amount of lighting is something that really surprises you when you turn this machine on. There are four lighted areas on the machine with two of them focused around the needle area. As you can see on the below right image, your sewing is fully illuminated before and after the needle area for the absolute best visibility available. There are two more sets of lights in the upper throat area, so you are more than covered in the lighting department on this machine. You can also turn off selected lights in the set menu if it is too reflective for something you are sewing on and also the ability to dim them.

It’s how big?

When you unpack the boxes, you can’t help but notice this hoop. It’s the largest embroidery hoop currently in the industry which measures 460mm x 280mm (11.3” x 18.2”). This hoop has been made with carbon fiber infused plastic which gives it strength and durability. It has a unique design to assist with locking in the hooped items to ensure there is limited slippage in the embroidery area. Impressive to say the least. A first for Janome is hoop recognition and the slide on system when attaching the hoop to the embroidery module.

Such precision!

When getting things precise in sewing, quilting and embroidery it really helps when technology can help us out. Lasers give pinpoint positions with the ability to angle and make clearer the beam. The thumb wheel located to the top right of the needle is another industry-first that lets you “dial” the needle up or down without having to reach over to the handwheel located to the far right of the machine. It really is the little things that help so much when the need to be accurate is required.

So, these are our first impressions of the Janome Continental M17 machine which is ready in store for demonstrations. Next up we will be testing out the stitching and embroidery which is going to be so much fun. There are many decorative stitches and built-in designs to play with. There are also some great apps available that work in conjunction with the machine so you can set up wifi for the ultimate experience.

If you would like more details on this amazing machine, click here for machine specifications as well as brochures. There are also training videos to watch here to view how to use the machine.

Happy Sewing!

CategoriesInspiration and Projects by

Pauline’s Quilters World Visit

We had the pleasure of hosting Pauline and her daughter Joey from Pauline’s Quilters World this month. They came to demonstrate some of their fabulous tools as well as quilt as you go and free motion quilting techniques. Pauline’s Quilters World is an online store selling patterns, tools & notions for quilters worldwide. They have many and varied youtube videos showing their great products and unique techniques and is definitely worth a look.

Pauline is the inventor of the original Sasher Tool which helps make stunning sashings for Quilt As You Go quilts and so much more such as:

  • very fine bias strips for applique and Celtic designs
  • peepers to highlight sashings
  • sashings with corner stones
  • bias strips for stems
  • double fold binding to bind quilts

You can see more of how to use the Sasher Tools here with Pauline.

We also have these great tools available here as a set of 10. Including sizes: 1/8″, 1/4″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1 1/8″, 1 1/4″, 1 1/2″, 2″ and 2 1/2″ wide.

Pauline is famous for her Quilt As You Go methods and she brought along some of her quilts and talked about her techniques. Patterns are available for some of the quilts shown below (click on the image to go directly to the pattern available).

Animal Playground
Robot Family

Pauline demonstrated her method of free motion quilting using her templates and sewing with the feed dogs in the up position and regular sewing foot attached instead of a free motion quilting foot, making it a simpler technique for those who struggle with traditional free motion quilting.

It was absolutely lovely having both Pauline and Joey here at Kimz, bringing along their products and demonstrating just how many different ways there are to quilt as you go.

We know our ladies that came along for the demonstration got so much out of the morning. There has been many comments about how fantastic the event was and lots of questions about when Pauline is coming back. As soon as we can lock in a date for a workshop with Pauline we will announce it through our newsletter.

We have an amazing range of their products available including the very popular Quilt As You Go Handbook. There are so many fresh ideas in the book including layered and pinked sashing, sewing machine tension plus plenty of tips to help you along your quilt as you go projects.

Special thanks to Pauline and Joey for their time coming to Kimz and we look forward to seeing them both back again soon.

Happy Sewing!

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Optical Illusion Mini Quilt Tutorial

Size 23 ½” x 25 ½”

Optical Illusion quilts have so much visual appeal and using light and dark shades of a colour can really give impact. Use this tutorial to create your very own optical illusion mini quilt.

Requirements

Instructions

Using a 1/4″ seam allowance on your sewing machine, sew dark fabric strips together lengthwise in the following order: purple + blue + pink.  Press well.

Now sew light fabric strips together lengthwise in the following order: purple + blue + pink.  Press well.

Take your dark fabric strip set and place lengthways on your cutting mat with the dark purple strip at the very top. Place your rulers 60 degree marked angle line on the lengthwise edge of the strip set and cut 10 strips at 3″ wide.  Set aside for now.

Now place your light fabric strip set lengthways on your cutting mat with the light purple strip at the top. Place your rulers 30 degree marked line on the lengthwise edge of the strip set and again cut 10 strips at 3” wide.

Join two dark strip sets together to create a purple, blue, pink, purple, blue, pink sequence.  Keep joining two dark strips together until you have 5 strip sets.  Repeat this step for the light strip sets.

Lay out your sewn strip sets alternating between dark and light like the image above.  Sew together these strips to create your quilt top.

Place your quilt top over the Parlan and mark the perimeter of the quilt onto the Parlan using the fabric marker.  Remove the quilt top and then cut a ¼” inside the marked line as this will reduce the bulk in your seams.

Iron the trimmed Parlan to the wrong side of your quilt top. There should be an overhang of the quilt top of 1/4″ around the outer edge. 

Place your backing fabric over your quilt top, right sides together, and sew a ¼” seam around the outside leaving a 4″ gap on one long edge.  Trim your backing fabric to reduce bulk.

Turn your mini quilt right side out through the opening and ensure all points are pushed out using That Purple Thang tool.

Hand sew the opening closed and enjoy your Optical Illusion mini quilt.