Textiles

This method of corking using a knitting machine is considerably faster than traditional methods. Using this method it is quite easy to make several yards in an hour. To create this funky corking you need to:
Read more »

When I bought my new bike the shop threw in a set of panniers as part of the deal. They were fine for a year or so, useful for work when cycling to the station, but I began to get a bit fed up with them. I couldn't find a pattern anywhere so I...
Read more »

You can use hand or machine embroidery to enhance your letterhead, business cards, and invitations, and give a unique look to your missives.
Read more »

My trusty Toyota overlocker started to make a horrible clunking noise recently, and was missing stitches. It almost seemed like the tension settings were wrong (but I knew they weren’t) and the nasty clunking and clicking told me that all was not well with the machine. I decided to see if I could find...
Read more »

The curtains on our camper van were in need of some TLC, but spare parts weren’t easily available because the vehicle is over 16 years old. I managed to avoid searching around scrap yards by fabricating my own replacement curtain hooks. I made a simple mold by pushing an original curtain hook into warm...
Read more »

Folksy is a friendly little community featuring some very talented designers, and they all spend their time making anything you could imagine. Whether you're looking for rings made from pocket watches, or cats made of (very fresh, I'm told!) socks, Folsky is the place to visit.
Read more »

There are some annoying problems associated with trying to photograph objects through glass. The solution to this problem is far easier than many people realise.
Read more »

There is a Maker Faire happening right now at the San Mateo County Event Center in San Mateo, California. Although I have not been fortunate enough to visit in person, I am consoled by the fact that I can get a feel for the event by watching the live stream being broadcast by FORA.tv....
Read more »

You can use an ordinary laser printer to create beautiful designs on paper with real gold leaf, and save yourself a small fortune at a specialist printers. The secret behind this process is very simple. Laser printers use a plastic powder called toner instead of a liquid ink.
Read more »

If you are having trouble getting a needle to penetrate thorough a particularly heavy material, rub a little beeswax (or candle wax) along the thread. The wax works as a lubricant, and the whole stitching process will be less stressful on the fingers and wrists. You can also use beeswax to stop the end...
Read more »