Vintage Train Case (Recycled in Tula Pink- Roar)
Cute Fabric Craft Idea | Perfect Valentine’s Day DIY
Cute Fabric Craft Idea | Perfect Valentine’s Day DIY
Need a quick Valentine’s Day gift that’s easy to make and super cute? In this tutorial, I’m sharing a fun fabric craft idea: a bowl koozie and matching hot pads that come together fast, make great gifts, and are perfect for using up pretty scraps!
Watch the Video Tutorial
🎥 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/vqcjyXtqgv0
Why You’ll Love This Valentine’s Day DIY
- Quick to sew (perfect for last-minute gifting)
- Beginner-friendly and easy to follow
- Practical + cute—a gift that gets used!
- Scrap-buster friendly
- Great for batch making (make a set for everyone!)
Supplies + Shopping Link
Shop the supplies I use (affiliate link):
🧵 Missouri Star Shopping Link
- Cotton fabric (Valentine prints are adorable for this!)
- Batting / insulated batting (based on your preference)
- Thread
- Rotary cutter + mat
- Quilting ruler
- Clips or pins
- Sewing machine
Shopping through my link supports my channel at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Crafty Author! 💕
How to Make the Bowl Koozie + Hot Pads
In the video, I walk you through the full process step-by-step, including:
- Cutting fabric and batting pieces
- Layering and sewing for a sturdy finish
- Turning and topstitching for clean edges
- Quilting details to add durability and style
- Finishing touches so your project looks polished
Pro tip: Make a few assembly-line style—once you sew one, the rest come together even faster!
Easy Gift Packaging Ideas
- Bundle with a soup cup, cocoa packet, or tea for a “Cozy Valentine” gift
- Tie with ribbon and add a handmade tag
- Pair with a mug rug for a full kitchen gift set
Let’s Chat
Are you Team Bowl Koozie or Team Hot Pads? Leave a comment on the video—I’d love to know who you’re sewing this for! 💘
🎥 Watch the tutorial again here:
https://youtu.be/vqcjyXtqgv0
🧵 Shop supplies here:
https://glnk.io/mzmmj/thecraftyauthor
#thecraftyauthor #valentinesdayDIY #fabriccraft #bowlkoozie #hotpads #easysewing #quiltinglife #diygiftideas #msqcshowandtell #msqcpartner @missouriquiltco
How to Make a Bowl Koozie Using Fabric Scraps
How to Make a Bowl Koozie Using Fabric Scraps (Easy Scrap-Buster Tutorial)
Got a scrap bin that’s overflowing? Same! In this tutorial, I’m showing you how to turn those leftover quilting scraps into a DIY Bowl Koozie (also called a bowl cozy) that’s perfect for hot soup, cold treats, and gifting. This is a quick, beginner-friendly project you can make in batches—and it’s one of my favorite ways to use up scraps you’ve been saving “just in case.”
🎥 Watch the full video tutorial here:
https://youtu.be/dlj7tuuoDG8
Why You’ll Love This Scrap Bowl Koozie
- Scrap-buster win: Use up small pieces of fabric you already have.
- Practical + giftable: Great for your kitchen, retreats, and handmade gifts.
- Beginner-friendly: Simple steps and quick results.
- Batch sewing approved: Make a stack in one sitting.
Note: The rotary blades and bolt of fabric used in this project came from Missouri Star Quilt Co.
Shopping List (Supplies)
Shop supplies here (Missouri Star affiliate link):
https://glnk.io/mzmmj/thecraftyauthor
- Rotary Cutter — for clean, accurate cutting
- Scissors — for trimming and detail cuts
- Rotary Blade Refills — sharp blades make sewing so much easier
- Northcott Cardinal Red Fabric
- Tula Pink “Wolf of Wolf Street” Fabric
- Gypsy Quilter Bowl Cozy Batting
Shopping through my affiliate link helps support The Crafty Author at no extra cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting my channel!
How to Make a Bowl Koozie Using Scraps
This bowl koozie comes together fast, and it’s a perfect project for using the fabric you already have on hand. In the video tutorial, I walk you through:
- How to choose and prep your scraps
- Cutting tips for accuracy
- Layering fabric + bowl cozy batting
- Shaping and stitching for a crisp finished koozie
- How to make several at once (batch sewing)
🎥 Watch the tutorial now:
https://youtu.be/dlj7tuuoDG8
More Scrap-Busting Ideas
If you loved this project, here are a few other great ways to use up scraps:
- Mini zipper pouches
- Mug rugs and coasters
- Quilt-as-you-go placemats
- Patchwork project bags
Question for you: Are you Team Scrap Hoarder or Team Scrap Minimalist? 😄 Drop a comment on the video and let me know!
Your Pre-Cut Fabric Storage Is WRONG (Do This Instead!)
Your Pre-Cut Fabric Storage Is WRONG (Do This Instead!)
If your charm packs, layer cakes, and jelly rolls are stacked in piles, shoved into bins, or sliding around shelves,
this might be the reason your sewing room always feels messy — even when you have plenty of storage.
Pre-cut fabric is convenient, beautiful, and expensive… and storing it the wrong way can lead to wrinkled fabric,
crushed corners, and forgotten bundles you didn’t even realize you owned.
In this post, I’m breaking down why traditional pre-cut fabric storage fails and what actually works
for real-life quilters.
Why Most Pre-Cut Fabric Storage Systems Fail
Many quilters store pre-cuts the same way they store yardage — and that’s where the problem starts.
Here’s what usually goes wrong:
- ❌ Stacking charm packs flat causes slipping and warping
- ❌ Overstuffed bins hide fabric you already own
- ❌ Open shelves without structure lead to messy piles
- ❌ Mixing different pre-cut sizes together creates chaos
Pre-cuts need visibility, structure, and separation — not just more bins.
A Better Way to Store Pre-Cut Fabric
The key to successful pre-cut storage is creating a system that lets you:
- ✔ See what you own at a glance
- ✔ Keep packs flat and protected
- ✔ Separate sizes (charm packs, layer cakes, jelly rolls)
- ✔ Prevent bending, sliding, and fabric damage
When your storage works with your quilting habits instead of against them, everything feels easier — planning
projects, pulling fabric, and yes… resisting the urge to buy duplicates.
Watch the Full Video Tutorial
I walk through the biggest storage mistakes and show my exact solution in this video:
👉 Watch here:
https://youtu.be/CStfbEW7mb8
Shop My Favorite Pre-Cut Fabric Storage Supplies
These are the storage solutions I actually use and recommend:
🛒 Amazon Storefront (Affiliate):
https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecraftyauthor
🧵 Missouri Star Quilt Company (Affiliate):
https://glnk.io/mzmmj/thecraftyauthor
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thank you for supporting The Crafty Author.
Don’t Buy More Fabric Until This Is Fixed
This might be hard to hear… but buying more pre-cuts before fixing your storage system is the fastest way to overwhelm
your sewing space.
Once your pre-cut fabric is stored properly, you’ll:
- Feel more organized
- Waste less money on duplicates
- Enjoy quilting more
- Actually use what you already own
Your future self (and your sewing room) will thank you.
If you love quilting organization, fabric storage ideas, and realistic sewing room solutions, make sure to check back
often — and don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube for weekly quilting content.
Happy quilting 🧵🩷
Anisa | The Crafty Author
Hashtags:
#thecraftyauthor #quilting #quiltingorganization #fabricstorage #precutfabric
#missouristarquiltco #msqc #msqcshowandtell #msqcpartner @missouriquiltco
Quilt Pattern Storage That Finally Ends the Chaos (Simple, Affordable & Pretty!)
Quilt Pattern Storage That Finally Ends the Chaos (Simple, Affordable & Pretty!)
Quilt pattern chaos is real—loose sheets, folded booklets, mystery “where did I put that?” moments, and patterns that somehow get wrinkled the second you look away. If you’ve been wanting an easy, affordable way to keep your quilting patterns neat, protected, and actually findable… this post is for you.
In today’s video, I’m sharing the pattern storage system I’ve been using to organize my quilting patterns so I can grab what I need fast—whether I’m planning a weekend sew, packing for a retreat, or just trying to keep my sewing room from turning into a paper tornado. 🧵✨
Watch the video
Watch the video here:
https://youtu.be/A30fKLm2k48?si=Bf6SLeA2DkV50f9T
Why quilt pattern storage matters (more than you think)
Patterns are basically the blueprint for our quilts—so when they’re crumpled, torn, or scattered, it slows everything down. A dedicated quilting pattern organizer helps you:
- Protect your patterns from rips, spills, and bent corners
- Find what you need quickly (no more digging through piles)
- Sort by category (quilts, bags, seasonal, beginner-friendly, etc.)
- Track what you’ve made and what you want to make next
- Pack for retreats without losing pieces
Even if your sewing space is small, the right storage makes it feel instantly calmer—and makes it easier to actually start projects instead of “prepping to prep.” 😄
The pattern storage solution I’m using
This is the organizer that’s been working best for me because it’s simple, sturdy, and keeps everything visible and easy to access.
Shop the pattern storage (Amazon Affiliate):
https://tr.ee/S_gPeIMkbg
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Crafty Author!
How I organize my quilting patterns (my simple method)
Here’s the quick system I use so my patterns stay organized long-term (not just for one glorious day):
- Sort first: quilts, bags, apparel, seasonal, gifts, and “try soon.”
- Use categories that match how you sew: If you mostly make quilts, organize by quilt style (traditional, modern, scrap, jelly roll, etc.).
- Keep active projects separate: I keep a “currently making” section so nothing gets lost mid-project.
- Add notes: I jot down fabric requirements, size changes, or “made this for…” right on an index card or sticky note.
- Store pattern pieces safely: If a pattern includes templates, I keep them in a labeled envelope or sleeve inside the organizer.
Pro tip: If you love making the same style more than once, keep a “repeat favorites” section. Future-you will thank you.
Pattern storage ideas if you have a LOT of patterns
If you’ve been quilting for a while, patterns multiply fast. Here are a few quick upgrades you can add:
- Alphabetize by designer or pattern name (great for printed booklets)
- Color-code categories with tabs (quilts vs. bags vs. holiday)
- Create a “wish list” section for patterns you haven’t started yet
- Use a simple spreadsheet to track what you own (optional, but satisfying)
Let’s chat
Are you a “pattern binder” person, a “stack of joy” person, or somewhere in between? 😂
Drop a comment and tell me how you store your patterns—and if you try this organizer, I’d love to hear what you think!
Watch the video here:
https://youtu.be/A30fKLm2k48?si=Bf6SLeA2DkV50f9T
Shop the organizer (Amazon Affiliate):
https://tr.ee/S_gPeIMkbg
Happy Mail Unboxing + Patriotic Project Bag Giveaway!
Happy Mail Unboxing + Patriotic Project Bag Giveaway!
Happy Mail makes everything better—and this one was extra special! 💌✨ I’m so excited to share my latest unboxing from Missouri Star Quilt Company, packed with beautiful quilting goodness and tons of inspiration.
If you love fabric hauls, quilting supplies, and that cozy feeling of opening creative mail, you are going to LOVE this unboxing.
🎥 Watch the Full Unboxing Video
Be sure to watch the full video below to see everything that came inside this Happy Mail box:
🇺🇸 Patriotic Project Bag Giveaway!
To celebrate this unboxing, I’m hosting a Patriotic Project Bag Giveaway for my amazing community! 🎉👜
✨ Giveaway Details:
• Open to U.S. residents only
• One winner will be selected on January 21, 2026
• The Patriotic Project Bag was generously gifted by Missouri Star Quilt Company — thank you! 💕
Enter using the widget below and be sure to follow all entry instructions for your chance to win:
Good luck to everyone who enters! 🍀
🛒 Can’t wait to get your own bag? You can get yours here! https://glnk.io/mzmmj/thecraftyauthor668
Thank you so much for being here, supporting my content, and sharing your love of quilting with me. I’m wishing you a joyful, creative, and cozy start to the New Year!
Happy New Year! 🎉
Hugs,
Anisa
(The Crafty Author)
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to make a purchase through my links. I only share products and brands I personally use and love. Thank you for supporting The Crafty Author.
10 MINUTE HOLIDAY GIFT
10-Minute Holiday Gifts Using the HTVRONT H1 Mini Heat Press 🎁
Looking for 10 minute holiday gifts that are handmade, beautiful, and quick to make? This easy sewing tutorial shows you how to create quilted fabric coasters in just 10 minutes using charm packs and the HTVRONT H1 Mini Heat Press—perfect for last-minute holiday gifting.
In today’s tutorial, I’m showing you how to make easy quilted fabric coasters in just 10 minutes using the HTVRONT H1 Mini Heat Press.
These coasters are perfect for last-minute gifts for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, and stocking stuffers!
This project is beginner-friendly and a fantastic way to use up charm packs, fat quarters, or fabric from your stash. These 10 minute holiday gifts are ideal for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, and anyone who loves a thoughtful handmade present.
Let’s get stitching!
🎥 Watch the Video Tutorial
Click here to watch:
https://youtu.be/jLnT4ylK8_Y
Or watch right here:
🧵 Supplies You’ll Need
- 5″ fabric squares from a Charm Pack, Fat Quarter, or Yardage
- 5 total 5″ x 5″ fabric squares per coaster
- 1 – 5″ x 5″ square of batting or fusible fleece
- Sewing machine
- Iron for pressing (HTVRONT H1 Mini Heat Press)
- Sewing pins or clips
- Turning tool
- Scissors
🛍️ Links & Tools Used
- HTVRONT H1 Mini Heat Press (Affiliate Link):
Shop Here - Missouri Star Quilt Company 8″ Everyday Scissors:
Shop Here
🎁 Why You’ll Love These Coasters
- Perfect 10-minute gift idea for the holidays
- Great stash-buster for charm packs and scraps
- Easy to batch make (make a whole set in one sitting!)
- Beginner friendly and super customizable
✨ Share Your Project!
If you make these coasters, I’d LOVE to see them! Tag me on social media and share your finished holiday gifts.
#HTVRONT #HTVRONTH1 #MiniHeatPress
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission
at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my channel and helping me continue to create tutorials!
12 Days of Christmas Giveaway’s!!! Day 12
🎁 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways — DAY 12 GRAND FINALE!
Win a LOKLiK iEngrave Laser Engraver! 🔥✨
Welcome to the FINAL DAY of my 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! 🎄🎉 We are ending this festive celebration with an INCREDIBLE prize that every maker, crafter, and creative entrepreneur will absolutely love.
Today’s giveaway is proudly sponsored by HTVRONT!
Thank you @HTVRONT for your generosity and for supporting creativity in our amazing crafting community! 💖
One lucky winner will receive a LOKLiK iEngrave Laser Engraver — a powerful, versatile machine that opens the door to endless creative possibilities.
🔥 Why You’ll LOVE the LOKLiK iEngrave
- Precision laser engraving for wood, leather, acrylic, glass, and more
- Perfect for personalized gifts, home décor, and small business projects
- User-friendly design for beginners and advanced makers
- Professional-quality results from the comfort of your craft room
This laser engraver is a total game-changer for anyone looking to expand their creative skills or grow a handmade business.
✨ How to Enter
Use the entry form below to enter the Day 12 FINAL GIVEAWAY:
This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.
Complete the entry steps above and you’re officially entered! ✔️
🎄 Thank You for an Amazing 12 Days!
Thank you so much for celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways with me. Your support, creativity, and enthusiasm make this community truly special. 💖
🎅 Good Luck & Happy Crafting!
One last HUGE thank-you to HTVRONT for sponsoring today’s incredible giveaway and helping us end this series with a bang! 🎁🔥