A Needlework Store with An Artistic Focus
Alice in Stitches is devoted to seeking out unique, art-focused supplies for quilting, knitting, felting, needlepoint and cross stitch. For the beginning to advanced crafter, our mission is to offer high quality products with great customer service.
You will find great new products and old favorites at Alice in Stitches. Come visit us for McKenna Ryan patterns, Tutto Machine on Wheels, Alexander Henry and Kona Bay Fabrics, Noro yarns, Lantern Moon knitting supplies, Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles, Beth Russell Needlepoint kits, to name just a few. Check back often, as our selection keeps growing.
You can visit our website at Alice in Stitches and our Ebay quilting, knitting and needlework Store.
Contact us at info@aliceinstitches.com.
What is the real difference in fabric quality?
Why are some fabrics cheap and some expensive?
You'll probably notice quite a difference in the price of fabric depending on whether you are buying from a specialty quilt fabric store or a discount sewing store. Why does some fabric cost more?
The differences begin with the base fabric, called "griege" goods. Griege is pronounced "gray". The quality of the griege is based on thread count and thread weight. A high quality fabric will have a thread count of 75 and a thread weight of 30 or 34. The thread count is the number of threads in an inch of fabric. A less expensive fabric will often be made with a greige base with a thinner weight and lower thread count. Consequently the lower quality fabric will not hold up well with wear and washing.
The Cranston fabric manufacturer provides a great look at How Fabric is Made.
You will be able to feel a noticeable difference between a high quality fabric and a lower quality. The higher quality fabrics will often be softer and silkier and you will not be able to see through them. A lower quality fabric will often be stiff or thin to the touch. The colors will be more vivid and vibrant and will not be as likely to run as lower quality fabrics. An exception would be with some batiks - it often takes several washings to soften and eliminate dyes, due to the process the fabric goes through.
A higher quality fabric also has a consistent and balanced weave. This will eliminate excessive and uneven shrinkage.
The higher thread count in the fabric will prevent your batting from bearding through the fabric when you are quilting. You will find as a hand quilter, that a higher quality fabric will be easier to quilt.
With all the time and love you put into your quilt, reward yourself with high quality quilting fabric, and be sure your quilt will be around to pass down through the generations.
The differences begin with the base fabric, called "griege" goods. Griege is pronounced "gray". The quality of the griege is based on thread count and thread weight. A high quality fabric will have a thread count of 75 and a thread weight of 30 or 34. The thread count is the number of threads in an inch of fabric. A less expensive fabric will often be made with a greige base with a thinner weight and lower thread count. Consequently the lower quality fabric will not hold up well with wear and washing.
The Cranston fabric manufacturer provides a great look at How Fabric is Made.
You will be able to feel a noticeable difference between a high quality fabric and a lower quality. The higher quality fabrics will often be softer and silkier and you will not be able to see through them. A lower quality fabric will often be stiff or thin to the touch. The colors will be more vivid and vibrant and will not be as likely to run as lower quality fabrics. An exception would be with some batiks - it often takes several washings to soften and eliminate dyes, due to the process the fabric goes through.
A higher quality fabric also has a consistent and balanced weave. This will eliminate excessive and uneven shrinkage.
The higher thread count in the fabric will prevent your batting from bearding through the fabric when you are quilting. You will find as a hand quilter, that a higher quality fabric will be easier to quilt.
With all the time and love you put into your quilt, reward yourself with high quality quilting fabric, and be sure your quilt will be around to pass down through the generations.
Alice in Stitches Blog
What's new- and how does it work!
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byFun Novelty Fabrics
Great prints from your favorite designers
Sew up some fun new accessories, quilts and clothing with fun novelty prints.
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Do you want to have a more successful online business?
Learn the tricks of the trade at OSI Rock Stars
When I first began my online adventure, I knew nothing about computers or the world of online selling. I had always dreamt of owning a quilting store. As it came to be, my dream came true in the online world.
I owe my entrepreneurial success to my mentor, Janelle Elms, founder of OSI Rock Stars site. Janelle has brought together experts in all venues of online business to help you carry out your vision. You'll be able to listen to them on podcasts, view them in how-to videos and ask questions on discussion forums.
With Janelle's patient help, I've grown my business over the past two years to gold level powerseller on Ebay and the equivalent on Amazon. I return to the OSI Rock Star site often to keep growing my business and to keep up with the latest technology.
If you're just starting your business, or you need a boost to bring it to a new level, click on the link below to invest in your success.
I owe my entrepreneurial success to my mentor, Janelle Elms, founder of OSI Rock Stars site. Janelle has brought together experts in all venues of online business to help you carry out your vision. You'll be able to listen to them on podcasts, view them in how-to videos and ask questions on discussion forums.
With Janelle's patient help, I've grown my business over the past two years to gold level powerseller on Ebay and the equivalent on Amazon. I return to the OSI Rock Star site often to keep growing my business and to keep up with the latest technology.
If you're just starting your business, or you need a boost to bring it to a new level, click on the link below to invest in your success.
Alice in Stitches Store Newsletter
Find out about the latest products and store sales
We send four different store newsletters, each tailored to a different needleworking passion. The newsletters are sent every 1-2 weeks.We will keep you up to date on the latest products for each needleart, our store sales and an occasional tip.
To signup, visit Alice in Stitches Store Newsletter. Your information remains strictly confidential and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Thanks, Alice
Popular Tutto Machine on Wheels a hit with Quilters!
Great bags to tote your sewing machine to class and retreats
If you are a quilter or sewer, you've probably drooled over those great Tutto Machine on Wheels cases at a quilting expo! No longer do you need to lug your machine and gear - just wheel the whole neatly organized ensemble to class!The Tutto Sewing Machine Bags are available in medium and large wheeled cases, an embroidery arm attachment case, and a smaller serger bag. The smaller cases easily strap to the wheeled bags, so you can transport your entire machine collection in one load.
The Tutto bags are of high quality materials, with a solid frame, and nylon sides. They are available in bright and fun colors. The medium size case is suitable to carry-on a plane, and the larger bag would go as checked baggage.
For sizing guidelines and more information about the cases, visit my guide on Sizing Information for Tutto Machine on Wheels.
Bigfork Bay Cotton Company - Creative new patterns from Montana
Wild horses, wacky crows and whimsical chickens
Bigfork Bay Cotton Company is a promising new quilt design company that's just released their first group of patterns.Their creative team of quilt artists have come up with a collection that ranges from a beautiful wild west series by Toni Whitney to a whimiscal collection of chickens and crows from Debi Hubbs. Also just released is a gorgeous American Icon cowboy and his horse, Blue Paint by Brenda Hermundstad Yirsa.
This beautiful group of patterns is for fusible applique, fun to make. Check out these first released patterns from Bigfork Bay in our art quilting section and watch for any new ones - this company is sure to be a hit!
A look at Electric Quilt Products for Computer Quilt Design
Ever wondered about computer quilting design...
Have you ever thought about trying a computer quilting design program? Do you know that there is a range of programs to choose from to match your abilities and interests?If you are new to quilting, or perhaps a little nervous about trying a design computer program, you might want to consider the EQ Quilt Design Wizard. This program from Electric Quilt is created specifically as a "beginner friendly software". It is a full design software, at a "beginner friendly" price!
If you are ready to jump right in with both feet, you'll want the Electric Quilt 6, their latest full feature design software. This software includes over 4,000 block patterns, over 5,000 scanned fabrics, drawing your own block patterns using two drawing styles, unlimited layout and border styles, ability to scan your own fabrics, and 62 help videos.
The EQ6 is created to be easy to use for beginning quilt designers, yet offers a full suite of powerful tools for professional designers as well. You can even generate high resolution block and quilt images for book and magazine images, pattern covers and teaching materials.
You will find Electric Quilt Computer Design Products at Alice in Stitches.
Quilting, Needlework and Latch Hook Rug Frames
High quality frames from F.A. Edmunds and Grace Companies
Your needle arts pursuits are always easier with the right tools. Let us help you choose the best frame for your activity, whether it's quilting, needlepoint, cross stitch, or rug hooking.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byFavorite Quilting Fabrics
What do you love? Don't forget to vote for your favorites.
We all know that quilters gravitate toward certain groups of fabrics. Do you love Alexander Henry or is Moda more your style? How about retro prints vs. batiks?
Robert Kaufman
Good all around designer - fun novelty prints and more...0 points
Free Spirit
All around beautiful selection, florals, retro, As more...0 points
Beth Russell Needlepoints
William Morris inspired kits from England
Beth Russell of Designers Forum in England has specialized in adapting William Morris designs into beautiful needlepoint kits for today's stitchers. These intricate patterns have translated perfectly to canvases so that we can enjoy the timeless designs in our homes.The designs have come from tapestries, wall paper, fabric, tile, embroideries and books. William Morris' successor, Henry Dearle, is also represented in Beth's needlepoints, with his brilliant "Greenery" work.
Beth Russell's needlepoint kits range from miniatures to fireplace screens, chair pads, wall hangings and rugs. They include the highest quality wools and canvas. Your finished piece will become a treasured heirloom to pass down over the years.
Helpful Quilting Guides from Alice in Stitches
Quilting Terms, Necessary Supplies, Choosing Fabric
We have written some quilting guides on Ebay to help you get started.If you don't know the difference between a fat quarter and a quarter yard, check out the Common Quilter Terms Glossary.
Not sure which supplies you'll need? Check out Recommended Quilting Supplies.
If you're in need of some assistance with choosing fabrics, you'll find out tips at Fabric Choices for a Fabulous Quilt.
Or, for landscape fabric choices try Landscape Quilt Fabric Selection.
Hopefully you'll find some helpful suggestions!
Links to more Alice in Stitches web locations
Visit us on My Space, Amazon and ECrater
We'd love to hear from you in our other web locations, as well! Following is a list of our locations.Visit our Alice in Stitches store on ECrater for more needleworking supplies.
If Amazon is your shopping venue, you'll find our Alice in Stitches Store there as well. You can click into our Storefront from the listing.
We'd love to hear from you on My Space. Send us a friend request!
Thanks for visiting!
Yarn Weights - What size needles for your yarn weight?
Ever guessing at the correct needle to use with your yarn?
Here's a handy guide to help you distinguish between the terms used for various yarn weights.Super Fine or Fingering: Generally includes sock yarns and baby yarns. Gauge: 6.75-8 stitches per 1" on #1 to #3 needles.
Fine or Sport: Very thin, lightweight yarns. Gauge: 5.75-6.5 stitches per 1" on #3 to #5 needles.
Light or DK: About twice as thick as fingering yarns - a good weight for sweaters, scarves, mittens and baby items. Gauge: 5.25-6 stitches per 1" on #5 to #7 needles.
Medium or Worsted: Good for warmer sweaters, afghans, scarves, etc., but not bulky. Gauge: 4.5-5 stitches per 1" on #6 to #9 needles. A heavy worsted would knit up at 4-4.5 stitches per 1" on #8 to #10 needles.
Bulky: Use for hats, scarves and outerwear. Great for heavy sweaters, coats and afghans. Gauge: 3-3.75" per 1" on #9 to #11 needles.
Super Bulky: Knits up very quickly for large items such as blankets and heavy, quick sweaters. Gauge: 1.5-2.75 stitches per 1" on #11 and larger needles.
Visit Alice in Stitches for your Yarn and Knitting Supplies.
Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles
All you need in one box - straight and circular needles in 10 sizes
The Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles provide you with a set of 10 different needle sizes, all packaged in a compact, airline safe box. When you discover that your gauge calls for a needle one size larger or smaller, simply connect the new size! No longer will you be stuck with the wrong size.The unique connection on these needles enable you to easily insert the correct size cord, twist 1/4 turn to lock in and you're ready to knit.
Kit Specifics:
~ 10 needle sizes - 5,6,7,8,9,10,10.5,11,13,15
~ 6 cords ~ 5",9",12",14",16", and 19"
~ 2 Extenders and 4 End buttons
~ Circular and straight needles of variable lengths
~ Stitch holders included
~ Compact 7" x 8.5" case
~ Airline Safe
~ Parts and Extra long cords sold separately
~ Parts guaranteed by Denise Interchangeable
The Denise sets are available in blue or the pink set as a Cancer Research fundraiser. You'll find Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles at Alice in Stitches. We also carry a selection of exotic wood, Lantern Moon needles and the fun, Knit Lite lighted knitting needles.
Alice in Stitches - Ebay Store Category Links
Easy shopping at your fingertips
Alice in Stitches supplies unique and art-focused quilting, knitting, needlepoint and cross stitch supplies. Below are easy links directly to the category of your interest:
Artisan Handcrafted Quilts
Tutto Sewing Machine Cases and Craft Totes
Quilting Frames and Stands
Quilt Hangers and Clamps
Sewing Tools and Notions
Misty Fuse and Tracing Paper
Quilting Patterns and Books
Electric Quilt Design Software
Collectibles, Gifts, Holiday
Cotton Fabric Yardage
Knitting
Needlepoint and Cross Stitch
Feel free to contact me at info@aliceinstitches.com.
Artisan Handcrafted Quilts
Tutto Sewing Machine Cases and Craft Totes
Quilting Frames and Stands
Quilt Hangers and Clamps
Sewing Tools and Notions
Misty Fuse and Tracing Paper
Quilting Patterns and Books
Electric Quilt Design Software
Collectibles, Gifts, Holiday
Cotton Fabric Yardage
Knitting
Needlepoint and Cross Stitch
Feel free to contact me at info@aliceinstitches.com.
Quilt Art to Inspire You - and Aspire To!
Textiles, Fiber Art, Quilts and more - Creativity at it's best
Some of the best quilts and fiber art that I've come across. Feel free to add your nominations and vote for your favorites.
Walnut and Ash Quilt Hang-Ups
When you finish your quilts, hang them with wood quilt clamps!
After you have finished your special quilt, you may be looking for the perfect way to hang it on the wall. You can save yourself the trouble of sewing on a sleeve by using quilt clamps.These wooden quilt hangers are available in two sizes, large and miniature. And, also in two types of wood, Ash and Walnut. They are carefully made from hardwood and brass and come with easy to use instructions. Quilt Hang-Ups are available for purchase in sets of two. You will need to hang the clamps approximately every 12" to 18" along your quilt.
Hang-ups are also great for hanging other textiles such as weavings or rugs. The mini Hang-Ups would be a perfect way to display children's art work as well.
A Sampling from our Ebay Store
We have over 700 products - Check us out!
No matter what your favorite needle art, you're likely to find it in our Ebay store. We carry supplies for quilting, knitting, felting, needlepoint and cross stitch. You'll also find some fun gift ideas and holiday decor.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byPacafil Alpaca Batting - Hypoallergenic, Warm and Water Repellant
Perfect for quilts, clothing and crafts projects
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Alpaca batting is available in blends of 50/50 Alpaca/Cotton and 60/40 Alpaca/Wool. This unique quilt batting is made from 100% natural fibers, with no glues or resins. It is extremely warm and breathable, soft and durable.Alpaca fiber is one of the finest fibers in the world. The fiber is measured in a unit called Microns. Alpaca fiber ranges from 15 to 30 microns. The Alpaca's hair has adapted to their cold, harsh environment, with a hollow shaft, creating an extra insulative air pocket. It is said that Alpaca is 8 times warmer than sheep's wool.
The Alpaca fiber is smooth and soft to the touch and does not have the "wool prickle". This is because the Alpaca's hair is smooth down the shaft, whereas a sheep's wool has little barbs down the shaft of each hair.
Most people who are sensitive to other fibers find that Alpaca is very hypoallergenic. It does not contain the lanolin of sheep's wool. It is available in 22 natural colors, ranging from white to true black, which can eliminate the need for dyes which some people are allergic to.
This fiber is also water repellant (another adaptation to the Alpaca's environment), which carries over to garments and products made from the fiber. The "wet sheep" smell often associated with sheep's wool sweaters is not evident with Alpaca fiber.
We carry both cotton and wool blends of Alpaca Batting, as well as brightly colored, hand dyed Pacafil Brights for crafting and needlefelting.
Visit more of Alice in Stitches lens's
Great tips on quilting and knitting
Visit Quilting Tips, Shortcuts and Advice for great information on getting quilts done when you don't have the time.For an exploration of creativity, visit Art Quilting.
And for all the knitters, check out Art Knitting.
Thanks for visiting!
Noro Yarns - Kureyon, Silk Garden, Iro and more
Quality Japanese yarns in rich, vibrant colors
The Noro yarns are so highly sought after that at times the manufacturer has a hard time keeping up with demand! It's easy to understand when you see the amazing color blends!Noro yarns are hand spun and utilize a unique process for dying their yarns. The yarn comes in many different blends, from wools to silk.
Our store is rapidly filling as we get the new yarns listed for Fall. Check out the beautiful new colors of Noro.
Knitting Enthusiasts - Vote for your favorite yarn
Don't see it - add it to the list!
Share with your knitting co-horts your favorite yarns and why.
Noro Kureyon
Beautiful Japanese yarn with great colors - and st more...2 points
Recycled Silk Yarn
Made from recycled saris' in Nepal - unusual blend more...0 points
Great Quilting Patterns for every ability
Looking for a new quilt project?
We carry a wide assortment of patterns, from art quilting to traditional designs. You'll find such designers as McKenna Ryan, Caryl Bryer Fallert, Brandywine Designs, Bigfork Cotton Bay Co, and many more.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byAlexander Henry Quilting Fabrics
Visit for holiday, Asian, retro, novelty prints and many more
Alice in Stitches carries a high quality line of quilting fabrics. We've recently added Alexander Henry to our collection, and will continue to bring in the newest prints.Alexander Henry prints include a fun assortment of novelties, holiday, Asian, retro and more.
We just received a fun assortment of Retro Trick or Treat Halloween, Japanese Geisha, Cowboys, Tattoos, Skulls, Owls, Snowshoe Santa and so much more. There will be more arriving any day now!
Wright's Sidewinder - Portable Bobbin Winder
A handy tool for any quilter and seamstress
The new Wright's Sidewinder is a great concept - wind your bobbins without unthreading your machine in the middle of projects! Don't we all hate to stop what we're doing to wind bobbins. The Wright's Sidewinder will keep you sewing with a minimum of down time for bobbin winding!There are a few sewing machines with bobbins that do not fit in this winder, so please be sure to check the listing before purchase.
Helpful Lens' on Quilting, Knitting, Felting, and Needlearts
Vote your favorites up or down!
We all love great tips and information - Help me built a useful reference of needlearts lens'.
http://www.squidoo.com/aliceinstitches/
A handy collection of Quilting Tips, Shortcuts and more...1 point
http://www.squidoo.com/artquilting/
Join a conversation on Art Quilting with Quilteral more...1 point
Free Cross Stitch Border Patterns
There are many different types of needles to use i more...1 point
Elementary Quilts
People that choose to make quilts for a living can more...1 point
Knitting Techniques
The key to knitting for gifts is to keep things si more...1 point
Best in Knitting Art, Techniques - The Weird, Wacky and Wonderful
A look at fun with knitting - the unusual and inte more...0 points
Quilt Design by Computer - Revolutionize your quilting!
Quilting Software from beginner to advanced
You will find the perfect quilting software, whether you are a beginner or a designer creating a book. You'll love the versatility and new levels that the quilt design will bring to your quilts.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byVote for your favorite Needle Arts activity
What's your passion?
Which needle arts are the most popular? Vote for your favorites.