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!

Nutcracker Magic: Focal and Four Tote Bag

Greetings, friends! 

I’m so happy you’re here for a visit— it's Therm O Web Blog project day! Today is my stop on the Nutcracker Tradition Blog Tour!

Christmas may still be a few months away, but it's never too early to start planning holiday sewing projects! Today I'm excited to share a festive new post that's now live on the Therm O Web Blog as part of the Nutcracker Tradition Blog Tour. This project combines my Focal and Four Tote Bag pattern, innovative products from Therm O Web, and the enchanting Nutcracker Tradition Collection by Jennifer Long of Sew A Story for Riley Blake Designs to create a bag that's filled with holiday charm and a touch of sparkle.

Sewing Up Some Nutcracker Magic

The Nutcracker Tradition collection captures all the magic of the beloved Christmas story with elegant nutcrackers, graceful ballerinas, adorable Christmas mice, beautifully wrapped packages, ornaments, stars, and coordinating seasonal prints. Rich holiday colors and storybook-inspired illustrations make every fabric in the collection a delight to sew with. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Nutcracker or simply love festive fabrics, this collection offers endless inspiration for holiday projects.

The beautiful focal prints in the collection were a perfect match for my Focal and Four Tote Bag pattern. Designed to showcase larger-scale prints while combining coordinating fabrics in a fresh and eye-catching way, the tote highlights all the wonderful details Jennifer included throughout the collection. The finished bag is both practical and beautiful, making it ideal for holiday shopping, carrying sewing projects, gift giving, or simply adding a little Christmas cheer to your everyday routine.

A Little Holiday Sparkle

Of course, no Nutcracker-inspired project would be complete without a touch of magic! For this tote, I added glittery accents to the outside pockets using the Nutcracker Tradition Sparkle Stencil and Sparkle Paste by Jennifer Long for Therm O Web. The sparkling details add just the right amount of glimmer and beautifully complement the festive fabrics. It's a simple technique that creates a big impact and makes the tote feel extra special.

To help make construction easier, I also incorporated several of my favorite Therm O Web products throughout the project. From accurate cutting with SpraynBond Pattern & Stencil Spray to adding structure and professional finishing touches, these products help create a polished tote that you'll enjoy using for years to come.

Supplies to Make Your Tote Bag Sparkle

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!

• HeatnBond Fusible Fleece
• SpraynBond Pattern & Stencil Spray
• HeatnBond Sparkle Stencil–Nutcracker Tradition by Jennifer Long of Sew A Story
• Nutcracker Tradition Sparkle Paste Bundle by Jennifer Long of Sew A Story (or your favorite coordinating color)
• Pressing Paper Fabric and Craft Sheets
• A Selection of Fabrics from Nutcracker Tradition by Jennifer Long of Sew a Story for Riley Blake Designs (model used fat quarters, but the pattern is 10” precut friendly)
• Coordinating fabric yardage for linings, handles, and outside bag base (model used Dapple Dot from Riley Blake Designs C640-SUGARPINK)
• Focal and Four Tote Bag Pattern by Blue Ribbon Designs (available in my Etsy Shop) Digital or Paper Pattern
• Palette Knife or Craft Brush
• Basic Tools (sewing machine, coordinating sewing thread, iron, wonder clips or pins, cutting tools and rulers, etc.)
  
  

Focal and Four Tote Bag Pattern
Paper Pattern — Digital Patten

See the Blog Post

If you'd like to make your own Nutcracker-inspired tote utilizing dependable products from Therm O Web, be sure to visit the Therm O Web Blog for my helpful hints, supply list, and plenty of project photos. You'll find all the details needed to create your own version, along with tips for adding sparkle and showcasing your favorite prints from the collection.

https://www.thermoweb.com/blogs/blog/nutcracker-tradition-blog-tour-focal-and-four-tote

I had so much fun combining these beautiful fabrics with a little Sugar Plum Fairy-inspired shimmer, and I hope this project inspires some holiday sewing of your own. After all, the best time to start Christmas stitching is before the holiday rush begins!

Thank you for stopping by today! If you make your own Focal and Four Tote Bag, I'd love to see it. Until next time, wishing you inspiration, creativity, and plenty of happy sewing!

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!

Farmhouse Fancy Fabric Tour

Hello, friends—happy Monday! (I am still traveling in Europe, but I made sure to schedule this post ahead of time.)

I’m so excited to welcome you to my stop on the Poppie Cotton Farmhouse Fancy Fabric Tour! Thank you so much for stopping by—I always enjoy visiting with you.

Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share three special pieces I created with the brand-new Farmhouse Fancy Collection by Elea Lutz for Poppie Cotton. The moment I saw these charming prints, my imagination took off—I couldn’t wait to dive into designing and playing in my studio! Each fabric in this delightful farm-and-floral collection feels like country living come to life, exuding cozy charm and vibrant personality. These prints inspired me to create projects that are full of color, texture, and that warm, homegrown feeling we all love.

💮About the Collection

Shipping to quilt shops this month, the Farmhouse Fancy Collection has a vintage vibe and is brimming with delightful details. Picture chickens, strawberries, cherries, tea towels, quilt blocks, and cheerful florals—all wrapped in a warm, inviting palette of pinks, teals, reds, yellows, and whites. This collection is a celebration of country living with a fresh twist, perfect for creating projects that feel cozy, nostalgic, and full of personality.

💐Project 1: Mini Medi Tote Bag

This medium-sized tote bag was created by cutting mini charm squares - hence the name. It features two pockets on the outside with round bottoms and two large pockets inside, that can be created with feature fabrics or patchwork or charm square 5" precuts. It can be made with one charm pack and one yard of any fabric you choose, but I thought it was wonderful in these vintage-look farmhouse prints. The directions and diagrams in this pattern are quite thorough, so this is great project for all skill levels. I used Poppie Cotton Country Confetti Cotton Candy Dark Pink for the bag/pocket linings and handles.

Paper Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/1743026780
Digital Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/1743028230

🐔Project 2: Small Boxed Bottom Zipper Pouch

This small zippered pouch measures 8" x 7" x 2.5" and features one of my favorite fabric prints in this collection : Farm Quilts Red. I used Country Confetti for the lining and added a Poppie Cotton Zipper Charm—the cutest little chicken you’ve ever seen! I didn’t follow a pattern for this project; instead, I let creativity lead the way and had fun experimenting in my studio.

🍓Project 3: Large Patchwork Boxed Bottom Zipper Pouch

For this larger pouch, I went all out with patchwork, incorporating every print from the Farmhouse Fancy Collection for a vibrant, scrappy look. It measures 11.5" x 8.25" x 3" and, like the smaller version, it is lined with Country Confetti for a cheerful interior. To top it off, I added a Poppie Cotton Zipper Charm—this time an adorable strawberry! No pattern here either—I simply let creativity guide me and had an enjoyable afternoon piecing it together in my studio.

💭 Which project is your favorite? I’d love to hear what inspires you most—whether it’s the cheerful prints, the creative details, or simply the joy of stitching something handmade!

I hope my stop on the Farmhouse Fancy Fabric Tour has sparked your creativity. Be sure to visit the Poppie Cotton Blog and follow them on social media for even more inspiration using this gorgeous collection.

Bringing the Farmhouse Fancy fabrics to life through these coordinating designs has been an absolute delight. From the Mini-Medi Tote Bag to the coordinating zippered pouches, each project highlights the warm palette and vintage-inspired motifs of this collection. I love how these three projects came together, and I hope they inspire you to make something handmade of your own.

Keep an eye out for Farmhouse Fancy arriving soon in your favorite quilt shops, and find the featured pattern (and many more) in my Etsy shop.

Thank you so much for visiting today—I truly appreciate your support and enthusiasm. I can’t wait to share what’s next. Until then, happy sewing & stitching, friends! 🧵💖

Unicorn Dreams Fabric Tour

Hello, friends—happy Monday!

I’m so excited to welcome you to my stop on the Poppie Cotton Unicorn Dreams Fabric Tour! Thank you so much for stopping by—it’s always delightful to visit with you.

Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share three special pieces I created with the brand-new Unicorn Dreams Collection by Ginger Deverell for Poppie Cotton. The moment I saw these whimsical prints, my imagination took off — I couldn’t wait to start designing and playing in my studio. Each fabric in this enchanting collection feels like a storybook come to life, and it inspired me to create projects full of color, texture, and a little bit of magic.

🦄 About the Collection

Shipping to quilt shops this month, the Unicorn Dreams Collection is an enchanting line brimming with charm. Think unicorns, butterflies, bunnies, birds, bugs, and gorgeous florals—all wrapped in a gentle palette of soft greens, pale peaches, and buttery yellows.

It’s the perfect blend of magical and mystical — a true daydream in fabric form — and I had so much fun bringing these prints to life in my studio!

🦄 Project 1: Sweet Sewing Book

First up is my Sweet Sewing Book, one of my original designs — the pattern is available in both paper and digital format in my Etsy shop.

This charming Sewing Portfolio/Needlebook/Stitching Organizer is as practical as it is pretty! The cover is foundation pieced, giving it structure and personality and it measures 8.5" W x 6.5" H when closed (17" W x 6.5" H when open). A button and elastic closure keeps everything neatly contained, while multiple pockets, a twill tape tie for scissors, and wool felt needlebook pages — featuring fussy-cut fabric motifs — make it the perfect companion for hand sewing or travel stitching. I finished it off with binding cut from Country Confetti (a Poppie Cotton Basic), which frames the design and adds a polished touch.

Paper Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/4303974342
Digital Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/4303984363

🦄 Project 2: Joyful Journal Jacket

Next is my Joyful Journal Jacket, another of my original designs — the pattern is available in both paper and digital format in my Etsy shop.

This quilted journal cover is designed to fit a standard composition notebook (9 ¾" x 7 ½"), making it perfect for jotting down project notes, sketches, or creative ideas. The Velcro closure keeps your notebook secure, and I embellished it with flowers and leaves cut from 100% wool felt (Bellwether Felt from Benzie Design) and accented with a button center. I added coordinating ½” hand-dyed rick rack from Lady Dot Creates between the patchwork and focal fabric for an extra pop of texture and charm. This cheerful cover turns an ordinary notebook into something truly special — a joy to make and to use!

Paper Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/1232489096
Digital Pattern: https://blueribbondesigns.etsy.com/listing/928107884

🦄 Project 3: Patchwork Pencil Bag

To complete the set, I created a Patchwork Pencil Bag — a coordinating companion piece to my Joyful Journal Jacket. There’s no pattern for this one; I simply wanted a pencil pouch to match! It features rounded corners for a soft, finished look and a coordinated zipper pull for a touch of extra detail. The bag measures 10" W x 4" H, making it just the right size for storing pens, pencils, small tools, or sewing notions.

💭 Which project is your favorite? I’d love to hear what inspires you most—whether it’s the whimsical prints, the creative details, or the joy of stitching something handmade!

I hope my stop on the Unicorn Dreams Fabric Tour has sparked your creativity. Be sure to visit the Poppie Cotton Blog and follow them on social media for even more inspiration using this gorgeous collection.

Bringing the Unicorn Dreams fabrics to life through these coordinating designs has been an absolute delight. From the Sweet Sewing Book to the Joyful Journal Jacket and Patchwork Pencil Bag, each project highlights the gentle palette and charming motifs of this collection. I love how these three coordinating projects came together, and I hope they inspire you to make something magical of your own. Keep an eye out for Unicorn Dreams arriving soon in your favorite quilt shops, and find the featured patterns (and many more) in my Etsy shop.

Thank you so much for visiting today—I truly appreciate your support and enthusiasm. I can’t wait to share what’s next. Until then, happy sewing & stitching, friends. 🧵💖