#Getsetsew December

​#getsetsewdecember - Winter Accessories

#getsetsew December is here, and given that it can be a busy month, and also a cold one here in the northern hemisphere, we thought it would be good to have a Winter Accessories #getsetsew challenge.  Not only can you make items that can keep you warm but they can also be made quite quickly, perfect for this time of year on both counts!  An as a bonus these could also be made for Christmas gifts. 

​For those of you living in the Southern hemisphere, don't let the fact that you may well be basking in summer warmth put you off joining in, instead think of it as getting ahead for your cooler seasons 😀 ⛄ Or you could even make a cap to keep the sun out of your eyes!
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There are lots of things that can be made for this challenge, from hats and scarves, to gloves and mittens, from neck warmers and snoods, to ear warmers, head bands and hand warmers.  There are some gorgeous snugly fabrics around to use for these makes.  But don't forget that this would also be the perfect challenge to use up scraps or up cycle old jumpers, T-shirts or sweatshirts.  
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But this challenges isn't just for the sewistis, this is a perfect #getsetsew for knitters and those who love to crochet too.  If sewing is usually your thing then why not give kitting or crochet a go?  There are some great beginners patterns out there, and again you may have unworn or pre-loved kitted jumpers that you can unravel and recycle the yarn!  Who knows, you might just find yourself hooked on crochet before the end of the month. 😉 😂😂
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Doing a google search for any of the items I've suggested above will provide you with  lots of pattern choices.  And you may well already have patterns in your stash or sewing and craft books that you can use. 
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As always we have compiled a list here to give you some ideas to get you started. There are both free and paid for patterns listed and also some online tutorials.  But please do share any other favourite patterns, or new pattern choices with us in Stitch Sewcial and we will create a resource list there. 
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SEWING
Free Patterns 
Annie’s Start to Stitch Headband pattern and tutorial – the wider headband can also double as an earwarmer!
Swoodson Says Hand Warmers 
Swoodson Says reviews for 4 Kids Beanie Hats 
Sparkle and Roar Snood and Hat 6m – Adult 

​Paid for Patterns
Jalie Patterns – Fleece Winter Accessories child to adult 
Makerist reviews and links for patterns for Gloves and Mittens 
Makerist reviews and links for patterns for Hats, Scarves, Ear Warmers, Neck wraps, Infinity Scarf, and even a Capelet!
Twig and Tale Children’s Hats 

KNITTING AND CROCHET
Ravelry is a great online resource for knitting and crochet patterns, with many free patterns too.  You will need to sign up to access and download the patterns
Lovecrafts is another great resource for paid for and free knitting and crochet patterns (including a pattern for the most adorable Mini Christmas Santa Hat Decorations )

Something to be aware of if you are new to crochet is that some will use either UK or American stitch terms, this will be detailed in the patterns.  This article form Gathered explains this in more detail and also helpfully includes advice on reading crochet patterns and symbols.  Once you know how it can be a very mindful and absorbing craft 🧶 

Annie and Jackie have both done some crochet in the past and particulaty like the patterns from Cornish Crocheter Iron Lamb.  There are some links below to some of her patterns.
Iron Lamb - The Faraway Hat 
Iron Lamb - Slope Style Hat
Iron Lamb - Faraway Cowl Scarf
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Sew it's time to go and #getsetsew to keep warm and cosy this month!! There's lots of choice of things to make with this month's #getsetsew challenge, including sewing, knitting, crochet, upcycling and scrapbusting opportunities. Don't forget to use the hashtag #getsetsewdecember when you post pictures of your makes in the Stitch Sewcial Facebook group, and to tag us on Instagram @starttostitch we love seeing them.  

​Are you ready?? GET.....SET.......SEW!!

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At the Start to Stitch Academy we have a number of online courses available in our Academy, from our Back to Basics course for people who have little or no sewing knowledge, though to learning to Sew with Stretch Fabrics,  and courses to teach you how to sew your own luxurious Soft Furnishings.  In each of the courses we offer you’ll learn new techniques and how to  troubleshoot common issues, as well as create wonderful handmade items. 

🌟🌟Benefits to signing up for one of our courses include🌟🌟
🌟Lifetime access to your course, giving the ability to complete it at your pace 
🌟Online App means you can access your course from any device.  
🌟Access to a real life tutor via term time zoom sessions and direct messaging
🌟Spread the cost while you learn  with pay by installment options

If you’re not sure what course to do first then why not take a look at our Which Course is Right for You? blog post which will help you decide.  You can also sign up for our FREE Learn to Sew Mini Course, for a taste of what we do and how we do it, and 10% discount off future course purchases.  So why not take a look and get started on your sewing journey today 😊

You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram and why not join our super friendly Stitch Sewcial Facebook group for even more inspiration and sewing loveliness.  We look forward to seeing you there. 
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