Wrap Skirt Tutorial

I just found a wonderful blog called Sew A Straight Line with this fabulous free tutorial on making a reversible wrap skirt.

Just click the link here to view

Make your own play cube!

Would you like to make your own gorgeous play cube using Ann Kelle's organic fabric Ready Set Go?

Just click here to download the free pdf.

Like to purchase the fabric?  Just visit www.funkyfabrix.com.au

(photos and link via annkelle.blogpsot.com)

To wash or not to wash?

Do our pre-wash your cotton fabrics?  Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't.

Pre-washing, and the need to, really depends on what you are making and what fabric you are using.

General high quality quilting/dressmaking cottons have very little shrinkage (about 5% in general) so if you are making a snug fitting garment, or a quilt, it is best to prewash so there are not any little surprises after your garment has been washed for the first time.  If you are using a cotton knit, shrinkage can be up to a massive 25%.

Different cottons shrink at different rates so if you are using different fabrics sourced from different manufacturers it is often best to prewash.

Cotton fibres are stretched during manufacture so washing just "relaxes" the natural fibres back to their natural state, hence the shrinkage.  Drying on a low heat can also help relax the fibres.

Cotton fabrics (excluding organics) are coated in chemicals so if you are chemical sensitive, or just prefer to keep things natural, it is always best to pre-wash in a natural mild soap in cold water and either line dry or dry on a low heat.

I always pre-wash in cold water with a mild detergent.  This helps eliminate any colour runs.  I then dry in a warm dryer, and fold my fabric, ready for use.

Do you pre-wash?  Let us know in the comments below!

Our First Competition!

To celebrate the launch of our new venture we are giving away a great pack to create your own Little Bird Patterns Twirly Skirt! 

The lucky winner will receive a Twirly Skirt pattern donated by Little Bird Patterns plus a fat quarter set of Organic Pick a Bunch Fabric donated by Funky Fabrix to make your gorgeous skirt.

How to enter?  Just follow our blog (see follow us box to the right) and leave a comment below.  Winner will be drawn on Friday 17th of June.

Welcome!

Welcome to the Funky Little Bird Classes Blog!

Funky Fabrix has joined forces with Little Bird Patterns to bring you fun, informative sewing classes on Brisbane's northside.

We hope to hold bi-monthly classes in the Funky Fabrix store starting in August.  BYO machine to make a Little Bird Pattern during the 2 and a half hour class.  All costs will include the Little Bird Pattern to keep, all fabrics to make your garment and to take home, a sample bag full of goodies, plus your chance to purchase Little Bird Patterns and Funky Fabrix fabric on the night at greatly reduced prices.

Ofcourse all classes will include a glass or two of wine, and some nibbles!

For those who cannot make it to our classes, our blog and facebook page will be full of informative tutorials, sewing hints and all the latest news on the sewing front.  Each month we will also introduce our "Business of the Month" and bring you great discounts and special offers from our sponsors.

Follow our blog to join in the fun!