April 24, 2023

Is there any fabric more plentiful to upcycle than denim? I recently read that women have an average of eight pairs of jeans in their closet. Jean jackets and chambray shirts are plentiful at your local thrift shop. Recycling fabrics has always been a favorite focus of mine, as I developed sewing patterns and books over the last thirty years. From purses to aprons, Denim Redesign was an early title focused on techniques and projects for repurposing denim.

Channeling my passion for sustainable sewing and upcycling has taken a new twist with the introduction of Treasured Threadz™. These fabric panels of curated prints and patchwork were created from my vintage collection of textiles and quilts for you to sew, quilt and collage. The authentic digital reproductions are perfect for applique and small projects. I loved sharing the Quilt Block panel- Missouri Star Blue and the Patchwork Panel- Postage Stamp Retro with Misty on a recent episode of At Home with Misty.

Watch the At Home with Misty episode, Upcycling Projects to see my techniques for creating jean patch appliques with hand quilting and embroidery, along with the three patterns that are included with the purchase of a Treasured Threadz™ panels. Here is a little preview of the patterns you will access via the QR code or link inside that comes with the product:

Panels contain coordinated collections of prints & patchwork. The Treasured Threadz™ Missouri Star Blue panel features 20 unique prints and four 10” blocks. The Postage Stamp Retro panel includes over 150 unique feedsack prints in the two scales of patchwork that are featured in the jean jacket shoulder and back yoke pictured below. Note that we added hand quilting following the seams of the patchwork and prefer pearl cotton or 12 weight thread for stitching.

Treasured Threadz™ offers endless inspiration for creating unique fashion and sustainable sewing! With purchase of the panel you also receive online access to video tutorials and a Treasured Threadz™ Look Book with over 30 pages of project photos. Create patches, pouches, purses & more! Embellish as little or as much as you like. Accent Treasured Threadz™ with hand embroidery, beads and buttons. Slow stitching can be so satisfying AND relaxing. Grab a cup of coffee and watch the tutorial I filmed with Misty which shares a plethora of project ideas and special applique techniques I have developed for the panels.

Looking for gift ideas? My Fold & Go Folio is a perfect project for Treasured Threadz™ panels and ideal for storing notions, tools or jewels. Both versions and two sizes come with the pattern.

Introducing Treasured Threadz™ is a creative dream come true, the culmination of my love for vintage textiles and passion for repurposing thrifted fabrics. I hope I have inspired you to dream up a creative project!

Whether you choose to mend, refresh preloved clothing or sew a new project, Treasured Threadz™ is your shortcut to boutique fashion and FUN!

If you enjoyed learning about Amy’s Treasured Threadz™, check out our Artist Spotlight to learn more about her Vintage Notions book, patterns and creative journey hunting for “treasured threads” to share with you!

Blog by Amy Barickman

Published by Danae M.