Nutcracker Tree Skirt Blog Tour: Creative Spin

Greetings, friends! I’m so happy you have stopped by for a visit today. I am excited to share that I am over on the Therm O Web blog with a brand-new Christmas in July tutorial as part of the Nutcracker Tree Skirt Panel Blog Tour. This project features the beautiful Nutcracker Tradition fabric collection by Jennifer Long of Sew A Story for Riley Blake Designs, and I had so much fun giving this tree skirt panel a creative twist!

The Nutcracker Tradition collection is filled with the charm, color, and storybook magic we all love during the holiday season. From classic Christmas colors to whimsical characters and festive details, this collection brings the Nutcracker story to life in such a sweet and nostalgic way. It has that perfect mix of playful and traditional, making it ideal for handmade holiday décor, keepsakes, and gifts.

Nutcracker Traditions Fabric Collection 

Nutcracker Traditions Tree Skirt Panel

For my project, I started with the Nutcracker Tree Skirt Panel, but since I do not have a Christmas tree, I decided to think outside the box. Instead of creating a tree skirt, I transformed the panel into a festive table topper and a collection of coordinating ornaments. The panel artwork is so beautifully detailed that it does much of the design work for you, making these projects look much more involved than they actually are.

For supplies, I used the Nutcracker Tree Skirt Panel, HeatnBond Fusible Fleece and SpraynBond Basting Adhesive Spray from Therm O Web, wool blend felt, baker’s twine, and a few basic sewing tools. I also used scallop pinking shears to create a decorative edge that complements the scalloped details in the panel. These are simple, approachable supplies that come together beautifully for a polished handmade finish.

The HeatnBond Fusible Fleece stabilizes the fabric and keeps the cut edge from excessive fraying, while keeping the table topper padded and soft. The basting spray holds the layers in place for sewing without shifting or gumming up your needle.

The table topper is the star of the project and is a wonderful way to showcase the center portion of the panel. By adding fusible fleece and stitching the panel to wool blend felt with a blanket stitch, the topper has a soft, finished look with just the right amount of structure. The scalloped edge adds a decorative touch and gives the piece a charming vintage-inspired feel.

I love that this table topper can be used in so many ways throughout the holiday season. It would be beautiful on a dining table, entry table, coffee table, sideboard, or even as part of a Christmas dessert display. It is quick enough to finish in an afternoon, but the decorative panel makes it look like a project that took much longer to create.

To see my step-by-step tutorial with color photos, visit:
https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/nutcracker-tree-skirt-blog-tour-beyond-the-tree

Of course, I could not let all of those adorable Nutcracker character motifs go to waste! The remaining designs around the panel are perfect for ornaments. Each one is created with the same process as the table topper with fusible fleece and wool blend felt, stitched around the edge, and finished with a baker’s twine hanger. They are simple to make, but they have so much personality.

The ornaments are a great way to use every bit of the panel and add extra Nutcracker charm to your holiday decorating. Hang them on a tree, attach them to garlands, tie them onto packages, or display them in a bowl or basket for a festive handmade accent. They also make wonderful little gifts or keepsakes for friends and family.

Step-by-step instructions with color photos are available in the same post as the table topper:
https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/nutcracker-tree-skirt-blog-tour-beyond-the-tree

I hope this project inspires you to look at fabric panels in a fresh new way. Whether you make the table topper, the ornaments, or both, this tutorial is a fun and easy introduction to machine appliqué and a great way to create something special for the holidays without a long supply list or complicated piecing.

Be sure to visit the Therm O Web blog for the full step-by-step tutorial, supply list, and project photos. I will walk you through the entire process so you can create your own Nutcracker-inspired table topper and coordinating ornaments.

Thank you so much for stopping by today! I hope you enjoy this Christmas in July project and feel inspired to start stitching a little holiday magic of your own. Until next time, happy sewing!

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! 🌸