Welcome to 2026. The studio doors are officially open, the kettle is on, and I am so excited to dive into a brand-new year of creativity with you all. Here is what’s going on at Loopy’s Place this week!
New YouTube Tip-How to stop borders becoming wavy
There is nothing more frustrating than finishing a beautiful quilt top, only to have the borders ripple and “wave” when you sew them on. It can make quilting the final piece a real headache! This video shares a tip on how to stop it from happening.
From the internet-A Little New Year Treat: Empress Mills Sale
If you have some money burning a hole in your pocket, now is the time to head over to Empress Mills. They are currently running a sale, and the selection is lovely.
I couldn’t resist picking up some of the Meadowside collection by Lewis and Irene (designed by Cassandra Connolly). The prints are stunning and perfect for spring projects.
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Top Tip: If you’re ordering, please note that the discount is per metre, rather than on fat quarters. It’s a great excuse to stock up for larger projects!
This Week in the Studio & Community
It’s a week of “firsts” here!
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Welcoming New Faces: I am thrilled to be welcoming three new learners starting the Machine Sewing for Beginners class this week. Watching someone discover the joy of sewing for the first time is always a highlight for me.
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The Social Sew: Our first Social Crafty Session of the year is this Tuesday. If you’ve got a project on the go and fancy two hours of good company and quality crafting time, we’d love to have you.
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The Maltby Launch: This Friday marks the start of the new Maltby sewing group! We still have a few spots if you’d like to join this new community. It’s going to be a fantastic way to spend a Friday morning.
Behind the Scenes: What I’ve Been Making
Even though it’s been busy, I’ve found some time for my own machine.
I’ve finished a new dressing gown for The Boy—essential for these chilly January mornings! I’ve also completed the embroidery sampler for our Monday afternoon community class.
New Class Spotlight: Cathedral Window Cushion Cover
Looking to master a new technique this year? The Cathedral Window effect is iconic in quilting, but many people find it intimidating.
My new cushion cover class is designed to be an easy introduction to this technique. It’s a brilliant way to play with fabric folding and create something that looks incredibly intricate but is surprisingly achievable.
Let’s Chat!
As we start this new year, I’d love to hear from you. What is the one sewing skill you’re determined to master in 2026? Whether it’s zips, free-motion quilting, or just finally finishing that project in the cupboard, let me know in the comments below!
Happy stitching!
Why We Built Visual Accessibility into the Fabric of Our Embroidery Classes
If you ask someone to define "accessibility," the conversation almost always turns to physical architecture. We think of ramps, automatic doors, and wide hallways. While physical access to a building is crucial, true accessibility doesn't stop at the classroom door....
How a Sewing Class Saved My Retirement
We often talk about retirement as the ultimate finish line—a paradise of endless free time. But what happens when the initial excitement fades, and you’re left looking in the mirror wondering, "Who am I now?" For many, retiring from a decades-long career doesn’t feel...
My Take on the Minerva Paige Joggers-Pattern Review
When it comes to making clothes, we are always looking for patterns that fit and then can be made repeatedly with different fabrics or with litte effort, can change elements of the style. For me, the Minerva Paige Joggers is just such a pattern. I’ve spent some time...
