Frequently Asked Questions

Click on the blue bars below to expand items and see relevant information for each section. We hope this helps you answer any question you have.

Not finding what you are looking for? Try writing us via our Contact Us page.

Add-on Videos

Why do I have an Add-on video coupon?

How do I access my Digital Library?

Are there DVDs available for the Add-on Videos or tutorials?

Video and digital content is only available when logged in and connected to the internet. It is not available on CD or DVD. 

Why doesn’t my pattern have an Add-on Video?

Add-on Videos are a new feature that we’ve only begun adding to our latest patterns. Because so much time goes into the production of each video, we are currently focusing on our newest patterns. For a full list of Add-on Videos that are available, click HERE.

My pattern is supposed to have an Add-on Video coupon, but it was missing. What do I do?

Please give us a call at 1-435-674-9816 or email us at [email protected].

Bundles

What’s the benefit of buying a bundle?

You'll save time and money when you purchase a bundle.

I want to order a bundle but I don’t know what’s in it.

The webpage for each bundle will list the items included in that bundle. You will be able to choose the colors of items from the drop down box(es) on the right-hand side of the page. Please note that bundles do not include the pattern, fabric, or thread. Those items will need to be purchased separately.

Customer Service / Website

We've put together a video that goes over many of the basic features of our website and how to get the most value out of it. We hope this is helpful.

How quickly will my order be shipped?

We do our best to ship within 48 hours of the order being placed. Please note that our office is closed Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays. Orders will begin being processed on the next business day when we reopen.

Can I use multiple coupons in one transaction?

No. Each coupon must be used in separate orders.

My coupon didn’t work, what do I do?

First, make sure you are logged into your account. Next, ensure you have typed the coupon code correctly. Remember that only one coupon code can be used per transaction. If you’re still having problems, please call us at 1-435-674-9816 or email [email protected].

I forgot my password, what do I do?

There is a “Forgotten Password” link on the login page. If you are still having difficulties, please call us at 1-435-674-9816 or email [email protected].

How can I view my order history?

Orders can only be viewed while you are logged into your account and if you were logged into your account at the time your placed an order.

I’d like to save on shipping costs. Can you tell me which stores in my area carry your products?

Because there are so many stores that purchase from distributors, there is no way to maintain an accurate data base. We suggest calling your local quilt shop to see if they carry our products. If you’re not sure what stores are in your area, here’s a great link that might help in your search www.needletravel.com/shopfinder.

Or, take a look at our local quilt shop contest database and call a store near you.

I own a retail store, is there a way to get wholesale pricing?

If you are a retailer, please go to our wholesale application page to complete an application as a store and get applicable pricing. 

Wholesale Reseller applicants must operate a licensed business, and must be holders of a valid state or locality tax license or permit and, where applicable, a US Federal Tax ID.

The reseller must be in a related industry and plan to resell all products from ByAnnie. Becoming an approved Wholesale Reseller will enable you to purchase products from www.ByAnnie.com tax free. Many of our products (including our patterns, ByAnnie's Soft and Stable™, handbag zippers, and more) may also be purchased at a significant discount.

May I sell items that I make using your patterns?

The copyright notice on all of our patterns allows you to make up to ten items for gift or for sale.

We do ask that you credit Annie Unrein as the designer of the pattern. If you are selling the item, please include the name of the pattern used, Annie's name as designer, and our website on the listing for the item and on a tag attached to the item.

For example, let's say you made a travel bag from our Ultimate Travel Bag 2.0 pattern and you are selling it on an Etsy site. In the description of the bag and on a tag attached to the bag, please include this information:

"This travel bag was made using the Ultimate Travel Bag 2.0 pattern designed by Annie Unrein of www.ByAnnie.com."

If you'd like to make more than ten items from a pattern, please contact us. We review additional requests on a case-by-case basis.

Fold-over Elastic

What can Fold-over Elastic be used for?

Fold-over elastic provides a decorative finish to apparels, crafts, hairbands and more. We especially love using fold-over elastic for finishing the edges of mesh fabric for pockets in purses and bags. It is also perfect for finishing a neckline or wristbands on a special outfit or beautifully finishes the edges of diapers or diaper covers to securely fit your special baby.


General Sewing

For those new to ByAnnie, please be sure to check out our simple patterns with full tutorials in the ByAnnie Basics pattern category.

Do I need a special sewing machine to make ByAnnie projects?

It will depend on your project and the machine you have at home. Typically, a lightweight machine will have difficulty with the larger projects with thicker layers.

What should I keep in a basic sewing kit?

Annie has a few recommendations for what to keep in a basic sewing kit. You can find the list HERE.

Separately, for those new to ByAnnie, please be sure to check out our simple patterns with full tutorials in the ByAnnie Basics pattern category.

What sewing machine feet do you recommend for bagmaking?

Here are special feet that I feel are especially important for bag-making -- whether you own a BERNINA or another machine:

  • A walking foot, preferably with a seam guide
  • This foot is really helpful for quilting fabrics, especially when using Soft and Stable, as it allows all the layers to move together.

    For BERNINA: I like the #50 three-sole walking foot

  • A ¼” foot
  • This is the foot that I use 99% of the time.

    Use it to easily sew accurate ¼” seams as well as ⅛” and 1/16” seams.

    Because it is narrow, I also use it when installing zippers, too -- no need to switch to a zipper foot.

  • For BERNINA: The #37 foot is my preference, or (if you have a 7 or 8 series machine with dual feed), I suggest the #37D.
  • An edge-stitch foot
  • Designed for stitching in the ditch, but also great for sealing edges and topstitching around handles and straps.

  • For BERNINA: #10 foot
  • A Teflon or nonstick foot
  • This foot is very helpful when sewing on vinyl or other "sticky" fabrics.

  • For BERNINA: There are several feet that have a Teflon coating. I like the #53 foot as the right side is an 1/8" wide, so I can easily sew 1/8" from the edge.
  • An open-toe embroidery foot
  • This foot has a wide opening and an open toe so it's easy to see where you're going.

    I like it when I'm doing a zig-zag or decorative stitch and also use it when sewing on buttons using the zig-zag stitch.

  • For BERNINA: The #20 foot

To learn more about Annie's favorite sewing machine foot, read our blog post HERE.

Can I quilt my own fabric or do I have to get a long arm quilter to do it?

For ByAnnie patterns that require/suggest quilting, there will be a "General Quilting Instructions" section with Annie's advice on how you can quilt your own fabric.

However, if you need large pieces quilted (example: Ruler Wrap) or if you'd like a special design quilted into your fabric, you may wish to look into getting a long arm quilter to help you. Ask your local quilt shop for recommendations.

For some great tips and advice from Annie, read our blog "To Quilt or Not to Quilt."

Hardware

Should I use hardware sets or sets of two?

Sets of two are a product that we introduced in 2018 to make it easier for stores to stock our hardware and also to simplify the assembly process on our side. In doing so, we were able to reduce the price of hardware by about 10% across the board.

We therefore generally recommend that you buy the Sets of Two. Save any extra pieces for another project.

Will a magnet damage my electronics?

We are glad to see you thinking about the safety of your devices and using our products. Unfortunately, we are in no way experts in this field and we can provide you no guarantee that a magnet will not damage or corrupt data on your electronic devices. Please review your user manuals and/or check with the manufacturer to better understand the specifications for your device.

That said, we can provide you with two points of assistance:

1) In our patterns for laptop, tablet, and mobile cases enclosures, we almost always use zippers or a hook and loop fastener. This is not so much because we are concerned about the magnet, but instead because we prefer the closure strength provided. We do not want our tablet falling out! 

2) In early 2015, we found this blog which seems to imply there is no danger for mobile devices from a magnet the size of the one we sell. Note that desktop/laptop equipment is not covered by the following blog:  http://blog.first4magnets.com/will-a-magnet-damage-my-smartphone/

We hope that helps you in your research and in choosing an appropriate closure for your project!

International Orders

I live outside of the USA, is there a way to save on shipping costs?

The best option is to get a local quilt shop in your area to start carrying our products. Since they would buy in bulk, shipping costs should generally be much more reasonable.

Not sure if you have a local quilt shop? Try looking HERE.

How can I buy ByAnnie patterns and products outside of the USA?

There are several options here:

    1) Please look for a local quilt shop. They can easily setup a wholesale account with us or may have access to a local distributor. You might find one on our Local Quilt Shop Contest database.

    2) You can order directly from the USA and have it shipped anywhere in the world via the US Postal Service. Please fill up your cart and go to checkout to get shipping quotes.

    3) We do have an EU distribution center and website. That site is still in development and may be missing some functionality, but is a good option for Europeans. See it here: https://europe.byannie.com

Lightweight Mesh Fabric

Lightweight and a bit stretchy, this mesh is fabulous! 

Perfect for pockets on bags or anywhere you want to be able to see what you are storing, the mesh also works great in various garment applications and utility needs.


What size is your mesh?

Our mesh is sold in two formats. A 18" x 58" package and a 15 yard x 58" roll.

Here is a photo or the mesh with a quarter, so that you can get an idea of the size of the weave and holes.


Is your mesh food safe?

Our lightweight mesh fabric is 100% polyester, so we don’t recommend using it for cooking, straining, or for use around high temperatures. However, bags like Meshing Around or Mad About Mesh could be used to carry items such as apples, bananas, onions, packaged snacks, etc.

Does the mesh match the zippers and fold-over elastic?

Our 14 vibrant colors of Lightweight Mesh Fabric were designed to match our Fold-over Elastic and the following zipper colors:

  • Apple Green #200
  • Atom Red #260
  • Black #105
  • Blastoff Blue #215
  • Dandelion #195
  • Lipstick #250
  • Natural #130
  • Navy #235
  • Parrot Blue #214
  • Pewter #110
  • Pumpkin #287
  • Tahiti #245
  • Turquoise #212
  • White #100

Needles, Thread, Stitch Length, and Seam Allowances

What color of thread matches your products?

It can be hard to choose thread colors online, so we have prepared a list of colors of Superior Thread's SoFine#50 thread that coordinate best with our products.

Note that we usually match our thread to the fabrics we are using. However, there are times when we prefer to blend our thread color with zippers, mesh, and fold-over.

The list below includes Superior Threads' SoFine #50 colors and Aurifil colors to match all 48 of our colors of zippers. Our 14 most popular colors of zippers along with their related colors of lightweight mesh fabric and fold-over elastic are marked with a *.

Click HERE to print a PDF Thread Color Chart. Note that this chart is sorted by zipper SKU.

What needle do you recommend?

We use a 90/14 topstitch needle for almost all of our sewing, from quilting to assembly and binding.

A topstitch needle has a strong and sturdy shank. The thread rests in a groove down the shank which prevents shredding. Best of all, the eye is twice as big as an ordinary needle, so it is extra-easy to thread!

What thread do you suggest?

We normally use Superior Threads' SoFine! #50 for our projects. It is a 50 wt. polyester thread that comes in 134 colors. It is strong and sturdy and has a slight amount of stretch. We use it for quilting, assembly, and binding — basically, the entire project!

What stitch length do you recommend?

We use a 2.5 stitch length on our BERNINA machines for the majority of our stitching.

For quilting, we prefer to use a 3.0 stitch length.

Many bag makers prefer to use a longer stitch length (such as 3.0) when topstitching. Annie can't seem to remember to change the stitch length for that, though, so usually uses a 2.5 for those, too.

What seam allowance do you recommend?

We generally sew with a ¼" seam allowance unless the pattern directs otherwise.

For instance, we will use a " seam allowance when sealing the edges of quilted fabric or when attaching parts of a bag. We want those initial seams to be hidden when the bag is assembled later using a ¼" seam.

Because we want the length of the zipper to overhang the fabric by about " (to make it easier to hide raw edges), we recommend attaching a zipper using a generous ¼" seam. On our BERNINA machnes, we can just move the needle position one click to the left to create a generous ¼" seam.

One click to the right produces a scant ¼" seam which is helpful when joining pieces that will be bound. You can then use an accurate ¼" seam to attach the binding and know that the first stitching will be hidden.

Patterns

How do I know what supplies I’ll need for each bag?

Each pattern comes with a supply list that provide information about what you’ll need to complete your project. You can also find the supply list on ByAnnie.com by selecting the Supply List tab on any of our pattern pages.

How can I easily compare your patterns for backpacks, purses & totes, and travel bags?

Curious how a purse, duffle, or other bag measures up to the bags similar to it? See information and compare at a glance when you click on the "Comparison Chart" tab on a pattern's product page.

To make it easier, we've included links to a couple of the product pages' tabs below. Click on the chart to enlarge.


This comparison chart features:

  • Switchback
  • Out and About
  • Back At Ya 2.1
  • Got Your Back 2.1
  • Every Day Every Way

Backpack Comparison Chart


These comparison charts feature:

  • Annie's Favorite Purses
  • Bowl Me Over 2.0
  • Night and Day
  • On the Go
  • On the Town II
  • Serenity/Serenity II
  • Switchback
  • Bon Voyage
  • Daytripper II
  • MiPad Case
  • To Market To Market
  • Totally Trendy Totes

*Be sure to scroll down to see both Chart I and Chart II


Purses & Totes Comparison Charts I & II


This comparison chart features:

  • Every Day Every Way
  • Get Out of Town 2.1
  • Round Trip Duffle
  • Ultimate Travel Bag 2.0
  • Travel Duffle Bag 2.1

Travel Bag Comparison Chart


This comparison chart features:

  • Netbook Computer Carriers II
  • Laptop Computer Carriers II
  • Executive Computer Carryall II
  • iCases
  • Tech Tote
  • Power Trip
  • Zip It Up!

Tech Bag Comparison Chart

Do you have PDFs of the patterns? Why don’t you have more PDF patterns.

Not all patterns are available as a PDF. The main reason is because selling principally in a printed format helps us support local quilt shops by giving them a large number of great patterns to resell which helps them and their customers.

The patterns we do have available are here: https://www.byannie.com/patterns/Downloadable

Can I make copies of your patterns or sell items I make using your patterns?

All patterns are protected by a copyright and are intended for the personal use of the retail purchaser only. Permission is granted to make up to ten items for gifts or sale. We also request that you credit us for the creation of the pattern. If you want to make more than ten, please contact ByAnnie.com for permission ([email protected]).

If projects are made in a classroom setting, each student must purchase a pattern. Photocopying and all other types of reproduction, including mechanical, electronic, computerized, or digital are prohibited without the written consent of ByAnnie.com and Annie Unrein. Please respect the time and energy it took to make the patterns.


The copyright notice on all of our patterns allows you to make up to ten items for gift or for sale.

We do ask that you credit Annie Unrein as the designer of the pattern. If you are selling the item, please include the name of the pattern used, Annie's name as designer, and our website on the listing for the item and on a tag attached to the item.

For example, let's say you made a travel bag from our Ultimate Travel Bag 2.0 pattern and you are selling it on an Etsy site. In the description of the bag and on a tag attached to the bag, please include this information:

"This travel bag was made using the Ultimate Travel Bag 2.0 pattern designed by Annie Unrein of www.ByAnnie.com."

If you'd like to make more than ten items from a pattern, please contact us. We review additional requests on a case-by-case basis.

I see that there’s a 2.0 or 2.1 version for some of your patterns, but I have the original version. Is it no longer good?

If you have an older pattern, you can still use it to produce a great bag. Our 2.0/2.1 versions were released to include updated graphics, an easier-to-follow layout, and improved instructions. Some new 2.0 patterns also include new features like different straps, trolley sleeves, and more.

As we release new 2.0 and 2.1 patterns, we also film an Add-on Video for each of them. There are some older 2.0 patterns that we now print as II (Roman Numeral 2) patterns, these older patterns do not have Add-on Videos. To find all patterns that have accompanying Add-on Videos, look HERE.

We understand this can be confusing, but as we have grown as a company so has our desire to improve our work and give you the best sewing experience we possibly can. Never hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] for further clarification or other questions.

On each pattern's web page, we do our best to list what has been changed or updated.

Because the original pattern is still great and usable, we do not offer trade-ins. The newer 2.0/2.1 is an update, not a recall. The changes to the pattern are also not available by themselves since the entire pattern has been updated, not just select measurements or images or corrections.

Do you have any advice for sewing through thick layers?

While some machine struggle to sew through thick layers, most household sewing machines should be able to sew any of our projects. Here are a few things to keep in mind before sewing:

  • We recommend using a sharp 90/14 topstitch needle and suggest changing your needle frequently.
  • Check to make sure you’re using the correct tension settings for your machine
  • Let your machine move the fabric. Do not tug at it.
  • We suggest using ByAnnie’s Stiletto and Pressing Tool to help press down the layers and feed it through the foot.
  • Our new technique, introduced in the Add-on Video for our pattern Out and About mentions that you can use a small hammer to help “smoosh” down the layers.
  • Be mindful of the type of fabric you are using. Be suggest using quilting cottons for our patterns, so be aware that there will be added thickness when using cork, denim, home dec fabrics, etc.

Why are bindings used so much in your patterns?

We've found that binding gives a strong "skeleton" to a bag providing additional support and stability. We also like the decorative element that a coordinating/contrasting binding provides.

Why do your patterns only have instructions and not cut-out pieces like other patterns?

We've opted to use cutting instructions over paper cut-outs because we find you get much more accurate measurements. We also like that the pattern can be used over and over again, whereas cut-outs tend to wear out or could be damaged after repeated use.

With the majority of our bags, the cuts are rectangular shapes that can be easily measured with a straight ruler, and any rounded edges can be shaped with a circle ruler, compass, or even a larger thread cone.

On patterns where there are larger circles, or specific shapes, we do provide a template for cutting out (i.e. – Nesting Baskets, Jet Set 2.0, Potluck Pals, Serenity Shoulder Bag, etc.)

Photo Contest

Please find all information about our Monthly Photo Contest on its page: https://www.byannie.com/photo_contest/

Return Policy

What is your return policy?

Within our sole discretion we will handle returns on a case by case basis. Please use our product returns page for items you want to return. We will not be responsible for items returned without authorization. You will be responsible for any postage costs on returned items. If you have an item that is defective, please contact us and we will be more than happy to resolve the issue.

What if my package is damaged before it arrives to me?

If a package is damaged upon arrival, please report it to the postal carrier immediately. If the products themselves are damaged, please contact us: (435) 674-9816 or [email protected].

Can I exchange products?

We do not accept exchanges. Within our sole discretion, we do at times except returns of items, please use the product return page to make this reuqest.

If we accept your return, you may return items you don’t want for a refund and in the meantime order the item(s) you need. See additional details on returns in the question above.

Soft and Stable

Can I substitute Soft and Stable for regular quilt batting?

Annie created Soft and Stable to use as an alternative to batting or other interfacing. She was looking for something that would hold the shape of the bag, giving a professional looking finish without being too stiff or making the bag too heavy. 

Why can't I find Soft and Stable at Jo-Ann's or Hobby Lobby?

Our goal is to support local quilt shops, so we have made the business decision NOT to sell our products to discount chain stores. This enables your local quilt shop to have an exclusive item and helps keep them in business.

Do you have to quilt your Soft and Stable?

No. You can still use Soft and Stable without quilting the fabric.

Here are the steps we usually follow: Carefully smooth the first fabric (main or lining depending on pattern instructions) onto a piece of Soft and Stable which is cut about ½" larger on each side. Pin or clip the fabric in place on top of the Soft and Stable and sew around the edges, stitching about ⅛" from the edge.

ByAnnie offers a selection of patterns that don't require quilting. Some of these include:

Does Soft and Stable have a grain? Or a right/wrong side?

Soft and Stable may be used with either side up. The softly-napped fabric lining is the same on each side.

There is a slight bit more stretch on the crosswise grain of Soft and Stable (the 58" width) than on the lengthwise grain (the 18", 36" or 72" length).

However, the difference is minimal and we turn the Soft and Stable as needed to make best use of the product.

When should I use Black or White Soft and Stable?

We sell more white Soft and Stable, but we use more black. Here is why:

Usually when we are making a purse or bag, we are using dark fabrics. Dark fabrics hide dirt so are perfect for projects that get a lot of wear and tear. Black Soft and Stable enhances those darker colors, making them look more rich and intense.

Sometimes in the construction of a purse or bag, the layer of Soft and Stable may show (such as when a zipper is installed). If we are using dark fabrics, we'd prefer not to have a white line showing along the edge of the seam.

Black Soft and Stable is slightly thinner than white Soft and Stable so if you have a machine that has trouble with thicker layers, you may find it easier to work with black Soft and Stable.

Finally, though the changes are cosmetic only and won't affect the usability of the product, white Soft and Stable can turn slightly ivory-colored when exposed to light or high heat. That is not an issue with black Soft and Stable.

If we are using very light fabrics, especially fabrics with a lot of white in the background, we prefer to use white Soft and Stable as it brightens the colors.

As you can see from the photos below, black Soft and Stable brings out different undertones in a fabric. Most of the differences are very subtle.

We suggest that you try both black and white Soft and Stable under your fabric before beginning your project to see which gives you the effect that you want.

Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Using Black Soft and Stable:

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Using White Soft and Stable:

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Can I use Soft and Stable for hotpads?

Because ByAnnie's Soft and Stable is a polyester foam, we do not recommend exposing it to high heat. It is still suitable for use in placemats or transporting warm food in projects like our Potluck Pals.

How does Soft and Stable compare to competing brands?

The hallmark of Soft and Stable is its softly-napped lining on each side of the high-quality, resilient foam. The fabric lining clings to quilting cottons making it easy to sew and quilt. When your project is finished, the fabric continues to be attracted to the Soft and Stable, providing a smooth finish on both quilted and non-quilted projects and yielding a beautiful long-term result, even after multiple washings.

Soft and Stable's napped surfaces perform much better than other sew-in stabilizers and are a huge factor when comparing to fusible foam interfacings. Fusibles fail with use and time, leaving you with a limp project or, worse yet, a cottage cheese look.

Most customers indicate that they prefer Soft and Stable's balance between softness and sturdiness over that of other foam interfacings. They often complain that the others are either crinkly and hard or thin and flimsy or stretchy and hard to sew.

Finally, Soft and Stable is 58" wide. Some other foam interfacings are only 20" wide. This an important factor for customers not only when comparing prices, but also for efficient use of material and larger projects.

Do you have to pre-wash your fabric before you sew it to the Soft and Stable?

It is not necessary to pre-wash your fabric, as it gives you a nice "stiffness" when you're attaching it to your Soft and Stable. However, if you are concerned about the colors in the fabric bleeding, then you might want to pre-wash it.

Can I put Soft and Stable in the microwave?

Because ByAnnie's Soft and Stable is a polyester foam, we do not recommend putting it in the microwave or exposing it to high heat.

Can I wash or iron Soft and Stable?

ByAnnie's Soft and Stable is a 100% polyester foam that can be easily machine washed, dried and ironed on low to medium heat.

How do you sew through so much thickness?

While some machines struggle to sew through thick layers, most household sewing machines should be able to sew any of our projects. Here are a few things to keep in mind before sewing:

  • We recommend using a sharp 90/14 top-stitch needle and suggest changing your needle frequently.
  • Check to make sure you're using the correct tension settings for your machine.
  • Let your machine move the fabric. Do not tug at it.
  • We suggest using ByAnnie's Stiletto and Pressing Tool to help press down the layers and feed it through the foot. 
  • Our new technique, introduced in the Add-on Video for our Out and About pattern, mentions that you can use a small hammer to help "smoosh" down the layers. 
  • Be mindful of the type of fabric you are using. We suggest using quilting cottons for our patterns, so be aware that there will be added thickness when using cork, denim, home dec, fabrics, etc.

Tools

What tools will I need to make ByAnnie projects?

Be sure to check your pattern for suggested tools, typically located on page 1. For other possible suggestions check out the "Related Products" at the bottom of the page.

Zippers

Where can I find your zipper blog?

We have made a blog called "Zippers are Easy!" 

You can find all kinds of zipper information as you prepare for your project. We also included a 6 part zipper video tutorial with Annie! 

https://www.byannie.com/zipper-blog