Thursday, February 25, 2010

Bernina CutWork Tool with Software




I am really excited about the new Bernina CutWork Tool and Software! This new tool allows you to create an outline on your computer, send it to the sewing machine and then cut it with the new tool that sits in the needle bracket. With the software you can sequence the motif to cut and then embroider using a variety of stitches. The Cutwork tool will work on any Bernina machine, which is embroidery capable. Bernina was winner of the Swiss Technology Award for this invention.

Here is a leather book cover which the new tool cut and embroidered. It had no problem cutting through leather and can easily cut up to 10 layers of fabric at once. The book cover is my own design. It has handles and a built in bookmark, making it perfect for anyone who travels. I sequenced the design to first cut out the scales and eyes from a piece of green leather. I then glued brown and red leather to the back of the green leather and embroidered around the cut holes. I set this aside, hooped up brown leather and cut out the lizard. I then positioned the green leather I had prepared, glued it in place and finished with embroidery around the outside of the design.
For more information on sewing with leather visit my website http://www.finesewing.com/ for information on my Sewing Leather CD. For more information about the Bernina Cutwork tool visit http://www.berninausa.com/product_detail-n6-i294-sUS.html

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Koos van den Akker Workshop April 14-18, 2010













The Academy is pleased to have New York designer Koos van den Akker return again this spring to teach another inspiring and creative workshop. Here are some of the photos from last year's class. All of the students accomplished more than project while learning Koos' techniques. Visit http://www.finesewing.com to download workshop registration information.