Links

Although T-Shirt Forums is a site for (and by) professional garment decorators, there is a wealth of information there that the home crafter will find extremely useful. The Embroidery section is a great place for "newbies" to learn the ins & outs of embroidery machines, and software. Membership is free, and I've never been spammed.

Sewing.org has a section on their site called Guidelines for Sewing that is like having a sewing encyclopedia at your fingertips. You'll also find some fun projects there. You do not need to be a member to access all of this wonderful information.

If you're ready to start exploring specialty feet for your machine, SewingMachinesPlus.com is the place to go. Included in the information section on each foot are little video tutorials that show you how to use the foot.

Stitch Era Universal is software for creation of embroidery designs. This very powerful program will fill all of your lettering, monogramming, editing, and digitizing needs. Best of all, it's FREE. Click on the "Find a Dealer" tab to order your disk from an authorized dealer. The product is also now available for download. (Students taking my "Beyond the Basics" machine embroidery course do not need to order this -- you'll receive the disk, and we will install it during the first session of the course.)

Whatever your style preference, or sewing skill level, you'll find a wealth of information at VintageSewing.info, a reference library that offers free online access to public domain sewing books.

Locals will appreciate the service at Bolt's End Fabrics in Castro Valley. They carry a great selection of quilting fabrics, as well as home dec & fashion fabrics. You'll find a room full of trims, ribbons, & laces, and more buttons than you can shake a stick at. The best thing about this store is that it is operated by the owners who really know their stuff. Unlike most chain stores (that are staffed by people who don't necessarily know how to sew), you'll get knowledgeable help, and good advice here. Located at: 2743 Castro Valley Blvd. (behind the Burger King).

Another local gem is Jazzy Crafts.Owner operated, and staffed by friendly, knowledgable folks. The carry a wide variety of crafting supplies, and offer a large selection of classes.