Measure in Style: A Fabric-Covered Measuring Tape

Greetings, friends—welcome back to my blog! 

It's Therm O Web tutorial day and today I'm sharing a project that's equal parts practical and pretty. If you're anything like me, you probably have a collection of fabric scraps that are too beautiful to toss but too small for many projects. This fabric-covered measuring tape is the perfect way to put those treasured bits and pieces to good use while adding a little personality to your sewing tools.

Not long ago, I shared a fabric-covered retractable tape measure made with some adorable Poppie Cotton fabrics (Bluebells & Buttercups by Elea Lutz for Poppie Cotton), and I received so many questions about how it was created. I'm excited to say that I've teamed up with Therm O Web to bring you a complete tutorial that walks you through the process of transforming an ordinary retractable tape measure into a custom sewing-room accessory.

One of the things I love most about this project is how quickly it comes together. Using a standard 60-inch retractable measuring tape as the foundation, you can create a completely customized design with fabrics that suit your style. Use a single print for a cohesive look, combine coordinating fabrics for extra interest, or create several in different color themes to match project bags, sewing baskets, or gift sets.

With cooler weather on the horizon, this is also the perfect afternoon hand-stitching project. It requires only small pieces of fabric, making it ideal for scrap busting, and the finished measuring tapes make thoughtful gifts for quilters, sewists, embroiderers, knitters, and creative friends. They're useful, affordable, and filled with handmade charm.

📏Supplies

This tutorial uses some incredible new products from Therm O Web to make the construction process simple and stress-free while giving your finished product a polished, professional look!

A quick note: some of the links you’ll find in this post are affiliate links. If you choose to buy through them, I may earn a small commission (at no cost to you). That support helps keep this blog running and ad-free for everyone—thank you for being here!

For the complete instructions, supply list, and downloadable templates, be sure to visit the Therm O Web blog:
https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/measure-in-style-a-fabric-covered-measuring-tape

Here's what you'll need to get started:

• Bliss 100% Cotton Batting
• HeatnBond VersaCraft Firm Non-Woven Single-Sided Fusible Interfacing
• PeelnStick Basting Tape Double-Sided Adhesive ⅛”
• HeatnBond Lightweight Non-Woven Fusible Interfacing
• SpraynBond Pattern & Stencil Spray
• SpraynBond Basting Adhesive Spray
• Pressing Paper Fabric and Craft Sheets
• 2” Round Retractable Tape Measure (standard size)
• Cotton Fabric — Scraps/Small Pieces (Model uses Bluebells & Buttercups by Elea Lutz for Poppie Cotton)
• Comic Book Board or Lightweight Cardboard (cereal box)
• Strong Sewing Thread for Lacing (Nymo Thread or unwaxed dental floss works well)
• Invisible Thread (clear sewing thread)
• DMC Embroidery Hand Sewing Needle Size 5
• Oliso M3Pro Project Iron
• Basic Tools (cutting mat, ruler, rotary cutter, small sharp scissors, pencil)

The free tutorial includes full construction details, helpful tips, and printable templates to make creating your own fabric-covered tape measure easy and enjoyable.

💮Ready to give one a try?

I've shared the complete step-by-step tutorial, along with the free templates, over on the Therm O Web blog. Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon project, a clever way to use fabric remnants, or a unique handmade gift idea, this project checks all the boxes.

https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/measure-in-style-a-fabric-covered-measuring-tape

I especially love how these little measuring tapes brighten up a sewing basket or project bag. There's something so satisfying about turning an everyday tool into a one-of-a-kind accessory that reflects your creativity. Plus, once you've made one, it's hard to stop. They make wonderful gifts, and they're a great way to showcase favorite fabrics that deserve to be seen and enjoyed.

Thank you so much for stopping by today! I hope this project inspires you to gather up your favorite scraps and create something both beautiful and useful. Be sure to hop over to the Therm O Web blog for the complete tutorial and free templates, then come back and let me know which fabrics you choose for your own measuring tape makeover.

Until next time, wishing you happy stitching, creative inspiration, and plenty of time to enjoy the projects you love!

Blissful Bloom Fabric Bowl Tutorial

Greetings, friends!

I’m so happy you’re here to read all about my monthly Therm O Web tutorial project—I’m excited to share a fresh, flower-inspired summer design with you today! With the 4th of July just around the corner, I’ve been reaching for those classic red, white, blue, and green tones—such a timeless palette for celebrating the season while adding a soft, handmade touch to your home décor.

If you enjoy projects that are both beautiful and functional, you’re going to love sewing up my Blissful Bloom Fabric Bowl. This is a relaxed, beginner-friendly project that comes together with a wonderfully forgiving technique—so there’s no need to worry about perfection. Whether you’re just starting your sewing journey or looking for a fun, stress-free make, this is a project you can truly enjoy from start to finish.

One of my favorite things about my Blissful Bloom Fabric Bowl is how easy it is to personalize. Simply change up your fabric choices to create a completely different look. Go with a patriotic theme for the holiday, soft florals for summer, or pull from your stash to design something uniquely yours. These medium-sized bowls are also incredibly versatile—perfect for holding yarn or sewing supplies, organizing lotions or makeup, displaying guest towels, or even serving up a few snacks for a festive gathering.

You can find the full step-by-step tutorial (plus printable templates) over on the Therm O Web blog:

https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/blissful-bloom-fabric-bowl-featuring-bliss-batting

✂️ Supplies You’ll Need

A quick note: some of the links you’ll find here are affiliate links. If you choose to buy through them, I may earn a small commission (at no cost to you). That support helps keep this blog running and ad-free for everyone—thank you for being here!

To make your own Blissful Bloom Fabric Bowl, gather the following:

• Bliss for Jelly Rolls 100% Cotton Batting (NEW from Therm O Web!)
• 6 jelly roll strips (or 2.5" x width of fabric strips)
• SpraynBond Basting Adhesive Spray
• SpraynBond Pattern & Stencil Spray
• HeatnBond Fabric Fuse Liquid Adhesive
• Wool felt for the flower and optional leaves
• A button for the flower center
• A Clover Fabric Tube Maker is extremely helpful, but not required
• Basic sewing tools (machine, thread, Wonder Clips, scissors, etc.)

🌼 Featuring a New Favorite from Therm O Web

This project was such a joy to create, especially because I got to work with some fantastic Therm O Web products—most notably the NEW Bliss 100% Cotton Batting for Jelly Rolls. It pairs perfectly with pre-cut strips, making the prep process simple and enjoyable (no need to cut batting!), and it gives the finished bowl a soft yet structured feel that holds its shape beautifully. The NEW Bliss for Jelly Rolls comes in both 2.25" and 2.5"—and it comes in 25 yard or 50 yard rolls.

Combined with SpraynBond adhesives and HeatnBond Fabric Fuse, these products make each step smoother—from holding layers in place while sewing to easily attaching the sweet flower embellishment. I always love when the right products and tools take the guesswork out of the process and let the creativity shine!

I hope this Blissful Bloom Fabric Bowl tutorial inspires you to carve out a little creative time for yourself this summer. Whether you’re decorating for the 4th of July, organizing your space, or simply enjoying a relaxing sewing session, this project is a lovely way to celebrate the season with something handmade.

Be sure to head over to the Therm O Web blog for the complete tutorial, and if you make one, I would absolutely love to see it! Feel free to share your version and tag me so I can admire your beautiful work.

Wishing you a joyful, creative summer—and a happy 4th of July filled with sunshine, stitching, and a little bit of Bliss! 

Springtime Organizing with Fabric Canisters

Greetings, friends—happy Therm O Web project tutorial day!  Today I’m sharing a beginner‑friendly fabric canister sewing project that’s perfect for organizing your home. Spring is finally in the air, and with it comes that familiar urge to refresh our homes, tidy our spaces, and bring a little order to the everyday. Spring organizing sewing projects are some of my favorites, especially when they’re both practical and fun to make—and today’s project fits that perfectly.

You asked for it—and I listened! My Fabric Canisters have been one of my most requested projects, and I’m so excited to finally share this sewing tutorial with you. These soft‑sided storage containers are beginner‑friendly, quick to sew, and incredibly versatile—making them ideal for springtime organizing in every room of your home.

Sew Simple: Fabric Canisters featuring VersaFoam

This fabric canister project is all about simple sewing with a big payoff. These canisters are sturdy enough to stand on their own, yet flexible enough to be easy to use and store. They’re perfect for organizing sewing supplies, craft tools, bathroom essentials, kitchen utensils, or even small toys. If you love handmade fabric storage solutions, this is a project you’ll come back to again and again.

One of the things that makes this project extra special is the stabilizer used in the tutorial. This design features HeatnBond VersaFoam Single‑Sided Fusible Foam Stabilizer, a brand‑new product from Therm O Web. VersaFoam adds the perfect balance of strength and stability while remaining soft and easy to sew—making it an excellent choice for beginner sewists who want professional‑looking results without complicated techniques.

For the model fabric, I chose Hey Love Bug by McKenzie Elston for Poppie Cotton. The playful prints and fresh colors make this project feel bright, cheerful, and just right for spring. Choosing a fabric you love is a simple way to turn functional storage into a decorative accent that works beautifully in your space.

The pattern included with the tutorial includes measurements for THREE sizes of canisters: small, medium, and large.

👉 You can find the full step‑by‑step Sew Simple: Fabric Canisters tutorial and pattern over on the Therm O Web blog, where I walk you through the entire process using VersaFoam Stabilizer.

https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/sew-simple-fabric-canisters-featuring-versafoam

Supplies Needed for This Fabric Canister Project

• HeatnBond VersaFoam Single-Sided Fusible Foam Stabilizer
• HeatnBond Medium Weight Non-Woven Fusible Interfacing
• Cotton Fabric 
• Outer Fabric (model uses Hey Love Bug by McKenzie Elston for Poppie Cotton)
• Lining Fabric (model uses Country Confetti from Poppie Cotton)
• Oliso Iron
• Olfa Cutting Tools (cutting mat, rotary cutter, small sharp scissors)
• Pencil
• Wonder Clips
• Optional: Plastic Deli Containers (round food take‑out containers)

Spring is the perfect time to tackle organizing projects that don’t feel overwhelming, and sewing your own fabric storage is a great way to do just that. Once you make one fabric canister, it’s easy to imagine a whole set—mixing sizes, fabrics, and colors to suit your needs. They also make thoughtful handmade gifts for teachers, crafters, and anyone who loves staying organized.

Be sure to head over to the Therm O Web blog to check out the full tutorial and start making your own fabric canisters for spring organizing. If you give this project a try, I’d love to see what you create! Share your finished canisters on social media and tag me so I can cheer you on and share your work.

Happy sewing and happy organizing!

Sweet Treats Goodie Bag – A Sparkling Valentine Project

Sweet Treats for Valentine’s Day!

Greetings, creative friends! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and I have the perfect project to make your gift-giving extra special. If you love adding a handmade touch to your celebrations, you’re going to adore my Sweet Treats Goodie Bags—a charming little drawstring bag featuring a sparkling heart appliqué. It’s quick, fun, and ideal for holding chocolates, tiny treasures, or heartfelt notes.

This festive project is featured on the Therm O Web Blog, where I share the full step-by-step tutorial and downloadable heart templates. But before you head over, here’s a peek at what you’ll need to create your own shimmering Valentine bag!

💖Supply List

This list contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support the content I create and keep this blog running ad-free. Thank you for your support!

• HeatnBond Lite EZ-Print Iron-On Adhesive Sheet or HeatnBond Lite Iron-on Adhesive (for applique)
• HeatnBond Sparkle Paste by Jennifer Long Sew A Story - Fire Truck (for that glittery finish)
• HeatnBond Medium Weight Non-Woven Fusible Interfacing
• Pressing Paper Fabric and Craft Sheets
• Cotton fabric for the bag (models use the From the Heart Collection by Sandy Gervais for Riley Blake Designs)
• White cotton fabric (for the heart applique)
• Baker’s twine, cord, or ribbon (for drawstrings)
• Bodkin or Safety Pin
• Foam Brush or Paintbrush
• Sewing machine and basic sewing supplies
• Iron and pressing cloth
• Printable pattern and templates (available on Therm O Web Blog)

💕Spread the Love!

Want the full tutorial? Head over to the Therm O Web Blog for step-by-step instructions and templates! 

👉  https://blog.thermoweb.com/sweet-treats-goodie-bag-featuring-heatnbond

Valentine’s Day is all about making others feel cherished, and nothing says “you’re special” like a handmade gift. This little bag is more than just a treat holder—it’s a heartfelt gesture wrapped in creativity. Ready to make your own? Visit my full tutorial on the Therm O Web Blog and start stitching up some love!

Want more inspiration? Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for creative ideas all year long—and don’t forget to tag me with your finished projects. I can’t wait to see your Valentine creations sparkle!

Nifty No-Sew Gift Bags

Greetings, creative friends! It’s new Therm O Web tutorial day—holiday edition, and I’ve got the perfect last-minute gift wrapping project for you—quick, easy, and using minimal supplies!

The holidays are here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re juggling last-minute wrapping with a cup of cocoa in hand. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a no-stress project that will make your gifts look like they came straight from Santa’s workshop: Nifty No-Sew Gift Bags featuring HeatnBond!🍬

This project is ideal for anyone who loves fabric but doesn’t have time (or desire!) to sew. In just minutes, you can transform ordinary kraft paper bags into festive, personalized treasures using HeatnBond UltraHold Iron-On Adhesive. No needles, no thread—just pure holiday magic!

Visit the Therm O Web Blog for a full tutorial and FREE templates in four sizes:
https://blog.thermoweb.com/nifty-no-sew-gift-bags/

✨ Why You’ll Love This Project

• Fast & Easy: Perfect for those last-minute gifts.
• No Sewing Required: Seriously—just cut, peel, press, and go!
• Scrap-Friendly: Use up those holiday fabric scraps you’ve been saving.
• Customizable: Mix and match fabrics, colors, and embellishments for a look that’s uniquely yours.
  
  

✀ What You’ll Need

• HeatnBond UltraHold Iron-On Adhesive
• Fabric scraps (I used assorted holiday collections by Sweetwater for Moda Fabrics)
• Kraft paper bags in assorted sizes/colors
• Brown Gift Bags
• Colored Gift Bags
• Oliso M3Pro Iron
• Cutting Tools (cutting mat, rotary cutter, small sharp scissors)
  
  

Find a complete shopping list in my Amazon Shop (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3KRykhn

🎁 Make It Extra Festive

Want to add more holiday cheer? Try these ideas:

• Add ribbons or trims using HeatnBond UltraHold Iron-On Adhesive Tape.
• Glue on buttons, sequins, or charms for sparkle. (Note: Not for kids, could be a choking hazard.)
• Skip the templates and cut bold motifs from your favorite holiday fabric for a quick, eye-catching design.

BONUS: Pair your bags with my Nifty No-Sew Fabric Tags for the ultimate handmade gift wrap combo! Free tutorial and templates found here:

👉 https://blog.thermoweb.com/nifty-no-sew-fabric-tags-featuring-heatnbond/

🎅 Spread the Joy!

These bags are perfect for making your holiday gifting extra special. Share your creations with me—I’d love to see your festive designs! Explore my blog, website, or Instagram for more creative ideas.

If you are ready to try your hand at making one (or ten!), you can find the tutorial on the Therm O Web Blog: https://blog.thermoweb.com/nifty-no-sew-gift-bags/

Happy holidays and happy crafting!

Merry Maker Needle Books

Stitch Up Some Holiday Cheer!

Greetings, friends! You are visiting on a great day, as it is new Therm O Web tutorial day—and I'm absolutely delighted to share a festive project that will make your holiday season sparkle with handmade joy. If you’re searching for a thoughtful, creative gift that’s as practical as it is charming, you’re in the right place!

With Christmas just around the corner, now is the perfect time to dive into a project that celebrates the magic of giving. These Merry Maker Needle Books are small in size but big on personality—and they’re ideal for the crafters, sewists, and needleworkers on your list. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with embellishments, each needle book is a little treasure waiting to be gifted.

Imagine pairing one of these beauties with a pair of embroidery scissors, a bundle of needles, or even a gift card tucked inside. It’s a heartfelt way to say, “I made this just for you.” Plus, this project is beginner-friendly and perfect for using up those fabric scraps and bits of wool felt you’ve been saving for something special.

Find the Merry Maker Needle Book Tutorial on the Therm O Web Blog: https://blog.thermoweb.com/merry-maker-needle-books/

What You’ll Need (contains affiliate links to help keep this blog ad-free; thank you for shopping from my links):

• HeatnBond Lite EZ-Print Iron-On Adhesive Sheets – 1 sheet
• HeatnBond Medium Weight Non-Woven Fusible Interfacing – 2 pieces (6½” x 4½”)
• HeatnBond Fusible Fleece – 1 piece (6” x 4”)
• HeatnBond Fabric Fuse PeelnStick Fabric Adhesive Tape, 5/8” – 1 piece (3”)
• Cotton Fabric (models use a selection of Poppie’s Basics from Poppie Cotton)
• 2 pieces (6½” x 4½”) for cover and lining
• 1 piece (6½” x 4½”) for inside pocket
• Scraps for appliqué shapes
• Wool Felt – 1 piece (5” x 3”) plus optional scraps for embellishment (models use Wool Blend Felt from Benzie Design)
• Baker’s Twine, Ribbon, or Twill Tape – 2 pieces (9” each)
• Embellishments – buttons, sequins, charms, bells, tiny candy canes
• Basic Tools – small sharp scissors, embroidery needle, marking pencil, coordinating thread, iron, wonder clips or pins
• Appliqué Templates found on the Therm O Web Blog 

Find an Amazon shopping list with items used in this project in my Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brdgirl 

Why You’ll Love This Project

🎄Quick and beginner-friendly 

🐦Perfect for holiday gifting

🎅Endless customization options

🩷Great way to use up scraps and trims

Thank you for joining me for this merry little adventure! I hope these Merry Maker Needle Books inspire you to stitch up some joy this season. They’re quick, delightful, and endlessly customizable—perfect for heartfelt holiday giving.

If you are ready to try your hand at making one (or ten!), you can find the tutorial on the Therm O Web Blog: https://blog.thermoweb.com/merry-maker-needle-books/

Tuck in a pair of scissors, a bundle of needles, or a few festive pins, and you’ll have a gift that’s sure to make spirits bright. If you share your creations, tag me—I’d love to celebrate your makes and cheer you on!

Wishing you a holiday filled with handmade happiness, cozy moments, and plenty of creative cheer.

Fall Napkin Rings

Greetings, friends! Things have been insanely busy in the BRD studio. My desk looks like a creative cyclone blew through—piled high with sketches, fabrics, photos, and plenty of notes for what’s ahead. In just a few short weeks, I’ll be traveling out of the country, and let me tell you—the lists are LONG!

I’ve been working on a plethora of exciting projects (so many I could really use an assistant!), and while it feels overwhelming at times, I remind myself that busy is a blessing. There’s so much goodness coming your way soon!

In the meantime, it is new project tutorial day and I’m thrilled to share my October project created exclusively for the Therm O Web Blog! I absolutely love putting on my Fabric Education Designer hat and diving into tutorials that showcase Therm O Web’s incredible products.

✨Introducing my brand-new tutorial: “Fall Napkin Rings!”✨

Fall is in the air, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner (eek!). If you’re looking for a quick, creative way to dress up your dining table, I have the perfect project for you. These DIY Fall Napkin Rings are simple, festive, and a great way to use up fabric scraps. Plus, they’re beginner-friendly—whether you sew by hand or machine!

I’ve created four templates (oak leaf, maple leaf, acorn, and pumpkin) so you can mix and match or stick with your favorite. Want to add a little sparkle? I even show you how to use Sparkle Paste for a shimmering finish that will WOW your guests.

Ready to make your own? Head over to my full tutorial on the Therm O Web Blog for step-by-step instructions, supply list, and downloadable templates:

👉 Click here: Fall Napkin Rings Tutorial

🌟 What makes it shine?

For this project, I used a lovely selection of autumn fabrics, along with Benzie Design wool-blend felt and some of my favorite HeatnBond products!

• HeatnBond Lite EZ-Print Iron-On Adhesive Sheets
• SpraynBond Basting Adhesive Fabric Spray by HeatnBond
• HeatnBond Pressing Paper Fabric and Craft Sheets
• HeatnBond Sparkle Paste by Jennifer Long Sew A Story
• Fabric: I used a selection from the Autumn Leaves Fat Quarter Sampler from Connecting Threads
• Wool Blend Felt from Benzie Design
• Goody Hair Elastics, XL 10907 (I use these for the "ring" that holds the napkin!)
  
  

🎥 Coming Soon

Watch for a video walkthrough on my YouTube Channel + Instagram Feed in the next couple of days—it’s almost ready!

📌 Grab the full tutorial + pattern on the Therm O Web Blog: https://blog.thermoweb.com/fall-napkin-rings

🛍️ Want the exact tools + supplies I used? You’ll find them all in my curated Amazon list: https://www.amazon.com/shop/brdgirl

(Full disclosure: as an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases—thank you for supporting my work! 💖)

💬 Questions about Therm O Web, HeatnBond, or SpraynBond products? Or a type of product you’d love to see featured in a future project? Drop me a comment or send me an email—I’d love to hear from you!

I hope this autumn project brings a touch of handmade charm to your fall celebrations! It’s quick, fun, and a great way to use up scraps while creating something truly special for your table. Head over to the full tutorial to grab the templates and step-by-step instructions—I can’t wait to see what you create! Be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook so we can celebrate your creativity together. Let’s keep the inspiration flowing! 🍂✨

Thank you so much for visiting today. 💕 Wishing you a creative week ahead—make something beautiful! 🌸