learn to sew a necklace and you could win a sewing machine

18 August 2013

The Amazings are having a fabulous competition, open worldwide. The new class, featuring Gilda (an Amazing) and Lara (editor for Mollie Makes), is Machine Embroider a Textile Necklace and if you take the class you can enter to win a sewing machine worth up to £300/$450!

I was given access to the class so that I could do a review for you and share the competition.

The techniques used in the class were totally new to me so I was excited to see how the necklace was created. Gilda really explains each step thoroughly and Lara asks questions that beginners might have so they cover all the ground. The conversations make it feel even more like being part of a class and are peppered with great tips and Gilda's wisdom.

Of course there are supplies that you need to make it but, other than the soluble cloth, most of the things you need you probably already have (if you sew) or can buy cheaply and they offer alternatives so it can be done without purchasing a lot of expensive items.

It is such a playful technique, just like colouring in. You can easily correct mistakes and I like the fast and furious pace you can use once you've got the hang of it, my kind of sewing! I love how all those zigs and zags and whimsical stitches make such pretty and delicate looking embroidery.

Despite knowing the soluble fabric would dissolve it was still exciting to watch the finished elements emerge, putting it together was simple and the final result is a really unique and beautiful necklace. I don't usually wear necklaces but I really want to try this out and it could easily turn into a headband instead. I genuinely felt inspired watching the class and enjoyed seeing more of Gilda's detailed work and how she uses machine embroidery. There are lots of other possibilities and uses for this technique so it is well worth watching and the sewing machine competition is an amazing added bonus!

Competition Details:

1. Purchase the Machine Embroider a Textile Necklace class.
2. After purchasing, crafters will receive email with a link to the competition entry. Simply submit your details and you're in with the chance to win.
3. Competition closes 11:59 on Sunday 15th September
4. Winner will be notified by email and invited to choose a sewing machine of up to £300/$450
5. Entry is available to crafters worldwide.
6. Full rules available on the competition webpage.

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AMAZING! {free class}

18 June 2013

You know sometimes you come across something that's such a good idea you wish you'd thought of it? Yes, this is one of those!

The Amazings is very simply a great website that offers classes in ALL SORTS of really fun things - taught by people over 50 who know their stuff. It's informal, friendly, incredibly creative and passionate about learning and teaching.

The company is based in London, with plans to expand, and they now offer online classes too.

The website is super easy to use and navigate and the videos are fun to watch! The concept is just so brilliant and I love that people with experience and skill can pass on what they know.

Mastery and wisdom, brilliantly shared.

Here is just a sample of some of the classes they offer - and there will be even more to come, with one new video added each week!

Make Your Own Natural Beauty Products with Judith - the salt scrub looks divine and is super easy:

How to Make an Altered Book with Jacqueline:

Make a Mosaic Flower Pot with Josefina:

Awesome Retro Hair Dos by Michael (I wore my hair in his take on the 30s Chignon (not pictured here) at my sister's wedding, it was so easy and looked great!):