Easy Ribbon Tags

A super easy way to complete your garment and indicate the size. Here is my easy, fool-proof method of simple ribbon tags.

You might think you'll remember what size you made, but when you pull it out for your next kid or pass it along to your friend ... you'll be glad you put in an easy tag to remind you what size the item is.

Check out the complete step-by-step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Mini Bow Directions

A perfect embellishment to complete your garment. Mini bows are a great way to help you and your little one differentiate the front from the back. Professional looking mini bows are easier than you think. Here is my easy, fool-proof method for creating mini bows.

Check out the complete step-by-step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Basic Knit Leggings - CLOSED

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

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I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Basic Knit Leggings" (#23002) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by November 10th!!

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Description: Snug fitting with an easy-on elastic waist. This must-have basic design will become a staple in your little one's wardrobe. Comfort and warmth are what makes these essential. Perfect layering piece for fall and winter under dresses, jumpers, tunics and skirts. Pattern includes full length and capri length options. Instructions on how to apply professional topstitched elastic (no uncomfortable twisted elastic casings here). Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

You will receive 6 pages of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 22 steps and 25 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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NB, 3M,
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Already claimed: 6M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T, Doll
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Here's how it works ......
~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.

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Requirements ...
~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.
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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

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NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 1 week will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details.

Freezer Paper Stencils - using Fabric Paint

A perfect embellishment to complete your Knit Peasant Tees or Classic Knit Tees. A professional looking stencil is easier than you think. Here is my easy, fool-proof method for creating freezer paper stencils. PLUS ... we've included the template to make your own.

Check out the complete step-by-step instructions will full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

FREE Halloween Iron-On Heat Transfer Designs - Vol. 4

To download .jpg files to your computer: click on image to enlarge, right click and select “save image as…” and save to desired location on your computer.

Open in your favorite photo editing program, or word processing program to print at desired size.

*created with picnik.com

FREE Halloween Iron-On Heat Transfer Designs - Vol. 3

To download .jpg files to your computer: click on image to enlarge, right click and select “save image as…” and save to desired location on your computer.

Open in your favorite photo editing program, or word processing program to print at desired size.

*created with picnik.com

FREE Halloween Iron-On Heat Transfer Designs - Vol. 2

To download .jpg files to your computer: click on image to enlarge, right click and select “save image as…” and save to desired location on your computer.

Open in your favorite photo editing program, or word processing program to print at desired size.

*created with picnik.com

FREE Halloween Iron-On Heat Transfer Designs - Vol. 1

To download .jpg files to your computer: click on image to enlarge, right click and select “save image as…” and save to desired location on your computer.

Open in your favorite photo editing program, or word processing program to print at desired size.

*created with picnik.com

Iron-On Transfer Directions

A perfect embellishment to complete your Knit Peasant Tees or Classic Knit Tees. A professional looking iron-on transfer is easier than you think. Here is my easy, fool-proof method for creating iron-on transfers.

Check out the complete step-by-step instructions will full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Classic Knit Tee - CLOSED

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED !!! -- thanks everybody!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Classic Knit Tee" (#21001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by the 29th!!
...Description: A snug-fitting hip-length classic tee with set-in sleeves and a simple crewneck. Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts. This versatile tee is great for both boys and girls. Perfect for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or even paired with jeans -- and it can be embellished in many ways. Pattern includes short, 3/4 or long sleeve options. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

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You will receive 5 pages of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 23 steps and 25 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

I need testers for the following sizes:
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3M, 3T, 5T, Doll
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Already claimed: NB, 6M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 4T
...Here's how it works ......
~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.Requirements ...
...
~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.
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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!
NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 2 weeks will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details.

How to Shrink or Enlarge Templates

Do you have a template for a stencil or an iron-on transfer that you want a different size?

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I know it can be confusing it can be to enlarge or reduce a template on your printer or a copy machine. How much should the image be magnified or shrunk? Before your start, you’ll need to know two dimensions: (1) the existing size – if the design has several dimensions, use the largest one for the calculation and (2) the desired size – how big you want the design to be after enlarging or reducing.

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Pattern Resizing Formula:

Desired Size / Existing Size = Percentage to Enlarge or Reduce

Use the same formula whether you’re reducing or enlarging the pattern.

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Example: How to Enlarge Design

Existing design is 6” and desired size is 8”

8/6 = 1.33 (133%) – copy the pattern at 133% to get the desired size.

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Example: How to Reduce Design

Existing design is 9” and desired size is 5”

5/9 = .55 (55%) – copy the design at 55% to get the desired size.

Free Halloween Matching Game

my kids were bugging me more than normal today. so i decided to make up a quick matching card game for them. since it was so quick to make i decided to share it for free. enjoy.

print game pieces at 100%, make sure that the page scaling is set to "none", and print2 copies of the page.

cut off 1/2 from each edge (margins).

and then cut apart the game pieces, they are 2 1/2" square. ENJOY!

i printed ours on cardstock ... i'm sure they would last longer if they were laminated.

you can find the pdf download HERE.

Classic Knit Tee

Sewing with knits is super easy with our Classic Knit tee -- Available November 1, 2010. I promise that it's easier than you think. Plus, with this pdf sewing pattern you can use it again and again. Comes with short, 3/4 and long sleeve options. Sizes Preemie to 5T. Instructions for sewing with your traditional sewing machine or a serger.

Knit Peasant Tee

Get over your fear of knits with this super easy Knit Peasant Tee. I promise that it's easier than you think. Plus, with this pdf sewing pattern you can use it again and again. Comes with short, 3/4 and long sleeve options. Sizes Preemie to 5T.

Works-in-Progress

Classic Knit Tee with a crew collar and turquoise gradient dying. A simple, classic design that has endless possibilities -- plus it's perfect for girls AND boys!!

As fall approaches I realized my daughter needed some pants. These feature a flat-front, with elastic sewn-through in the back. Plus they have a faux-fly -- simple but really adds to their look. Another basic look that is perfect for both girls AND boys!!

Project Runway - Challenge #2

My Friend Becky, from Corduroy's Closet, has decided to do the challenges from Project Runway and I've decided to play along. Here is what I've made for week #2.

It was the Marie Claire challenge: A single look that tells the audience who the "Marie Claire" woman is. She's intelligent, she's practical, she's confident.

The pieces I decided on were simple, but highly wearable and versatile. A black shrug with gray binding around the neckline. Gray leggings with a black waistband. The show-stopping piece: A simple white tank with a dyed-flower.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Knit Peasant Tee - CLOSED

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED !!! -- thanks everybody!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Knit Peasant Tee" (#21003) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.
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Description: A snug-fitting hip-length peasant-style tee with elastic shirring around the neckline and sleeves for easy on and off. Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts. This versatile tee is great for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or even paired with jeans -- and it can be embellished in many ways. Pattern includes short, 3/4 or long sleeve options. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).
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You will receive NUMBER pages of patterns and 14 pages of instructions, including 30 steps and 36 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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NB, 2T, 5T
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Already claimed: 3M, 6M, 12M, 18M, 3T, 4T, Doll
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Here's how it works ...
...
~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.
...
Requirements ...
...
~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.
...
I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!
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NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 2 weeks will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Ruffle Skirt - CLOSED

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Ruffle Skirt" (#22004) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.

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Description: A darling skirt featuring a ruffle and a dropped wait. It's fun to mix-and-match prints and colors. Instructons for three different elastic techniques (shirring using elastic thread, classic elastic casing and ruffled elastic casing). Instructions for three different gathering techniques (2 variations using a basic sewing machine and using a ruffler foot attachment). OPTIONAL: Instructions on using our Bloomer pattern for a Ruffle Skirt with attached Bloomers.

You will receive 1 page of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 50 steps and 48 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

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NB, 18M

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Already claimed: 3M, 6M, 12M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T, Doll

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Here's how it works ...

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~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.

~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.

~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)

~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.

...

Requirements ...

...

~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)

~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.

~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.

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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

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NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 2 weeks will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Bloomers

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interested in testing my "Bloomers" (#23001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.
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Description: Bloomers [diaper cover] with elasticized waist and leg openings allow for easy on and easy off with enough stretch to cover the diaper. Reversible, which makes dressing wiggly babies even easier! Pair them with a onsie or a perfect addition to a matching top or under a dress or skirt. Leave the elastic off the leg openings and they are the cutest shorts. Instructions for three different elastic techniques (shirring using elastic thread, classic elastic casing and ruffled elastic casing).

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You will receive 4 pages of patterns and 11 pages of instructions, including 28 steps and 37 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

I need testers for the following sizes:
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3T, 5T, Doll
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Already claimed: NB, 3M, 6M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 4T
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Here's how it works ...
...
~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.
...
Requirements ...
...
~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.
...
I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!
...
NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 2 weeks will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Bowtie

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interested in testing my "Bowtie" (#26002) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.

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Description: This bowtie has a classic cuteness factor, but is still anything but ordinary. No need to tie this bowtie. Attaches quickly and easily with an adjustable neck strap with hook and loop tape, or an elasticized neck strap. A welcomed addition to your little guy's wardrobe. Perfect for all occasions, portraits, weddings, Sunday best, or with a t-shirt and jeans. Requires only 1/4 yard or 1 fat quater, which makes it excellent for remnants as well.

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You will receive 3 pages of patterns and 12 pages of instructions, including 32 steps and 37 pictures to guide you along as you make it.
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I need testers for the following sizes:
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NB/6M, 12M/18M, 2T/3T, 4T/5T
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Already claimed: 6M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T
...
Here's how it works ...

...

~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.

~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.

~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)

~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.

...

Requirements ...

...

~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)

~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.

~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.

...

I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Necktie

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interested in testing my "Necktie" (#26001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.

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Description: A timeless staple for your little guy's wardrobe. No need to tie this necktie. Includes options for an elasticized neck strap or an adjustable neck strap with hook and loop tape. Stylish for all occasions and holidays, portraits, church, weddings, or even every day over t-shirts. Requires only 1/4 yard or 1 fat quarter, which makes it excellent for scraps as well.

You will receive 3 pages of patterns and 9 pages of instructions, including 22 steps and 30 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

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NB, 3M

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Already claimed: 6M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T

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Here's how it works ...
...
~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.

~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)

~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.

...

Requirements ...

...

~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)

~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.

~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.

...

I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

Narrow Hem Directions

A perfect finish to complete your garment. A professional looking hem is easier than you think. Here is my easy, fool-proof method for sewing a narrow hem. Check out our complete step by step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Circle Flounce Dress

This testing is now CLOSED!

I'm currently looking for people who are interested in testing my "Circle Flounce Dress" (#24001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase.
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Description: This graceful dress features a fully lined bodice and a full circle skirt. It closes with three snap fasteners in the back. Definately pretty enough for special occassions, while being comfortable enough for everyday play. You'll have a tough time keeping your sweet girl from spinning, this dress is perfect for twirls and whirls.

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You will receive 9 pages of patterns and 13 pages of instructions, including 35 steps and 44 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

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3M, 6M, 15-18" Doll

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Already claimed: NB, 12M, 18M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T

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Here's how it works ...

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~ You leave your email in a comment and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.

~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.)
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized....
Requirements ......
~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me.
...
I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

Snap Fastener Directions

Are you unsure how to apply your snap fasteners to your garment? Check out our complete step by step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

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Definately easier than sewing a buttonhole and sewing on a button.

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Q: How can you tell the right from the wrong side of the socket?
A: Simply take a socket and put it between your thumb and first finger. Rub the socket between your finger and thumb. One side of the socket is slightly raised and the other side is slightly indented. The raised side of the socket is meant to be placed next to the prongs.

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Or an excellent tutorial for using the Dritz plier tool can be found at Sew, Mama, Sew!

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Snap fasteners can be purchased at your local fabric store, or here are some places online:

CowGirl Snaps - open ring, and pearl (26 colors) styles, as well as the plier tool

Buttoncare - open ring, frosted pearl, and jewel styles

Jatt - open ring, frosted pearl (25 colors) and jewel (15 colors) styles

The Goose Nest - open ring (13 colors!), and pearl (19 colors) styles

SnapSource - open ring (27 colors in size 16), capped ring (26 colors in size 16), pearl (8 colors in size 18), and good instructions

BirchStreetClothing - open ring and capped ring

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Snap Sizes -- I prefer size 16 or 18.

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The pearl, frosted pearl and jewel snaps should be set with the pliers as the hammer style tools can damage them.

Pattern Directions

Are you unsure how to assemble your Jocole pdf pattern? Check out our complete step by step instructions with full color pictures by clicking on the above picture, or HERE.