Sewing & Creative Cardmaking
Sewing is one of the most versatile ago-old techniques. Sewing is not just for fabric anymore. One wonderful use of sewing is in creative cardmaking. These days unique embellishments and attractive additions add dimension, character and a unique look to greetings. Let's discover some simple ways of stitching your way to delightful handmade cards.

Instructions:
Stitching Basics
As a quick refresher, let's go over two basic machine stitches. The most basic is a simple straight stitch. It can be varied by length of stitches per inch as your design dictates. The second, "Zig Zag" stitch, can be varied by length as well as width of stitch.

Machine stitches can be changed quickly by a turn of a knob or flip of a switch. My portable machine is very simple, full size but lightweight and most important to me, I'm familiar with it. There are many machines on the market, some are very small and specific to the craft industry. What ever you choose the result will be the same. I suggest you use what you are most comfortable with.

Stitch Your Cards
One of my favorite places to start stitching cards is to try stitching borders around stamped images to create a frame. This is easy and beautifully elegant with little effort.

This same technique obviously has other applications. Make circles. Make a single line along the side of your card. The options are endless. The central theme however is the following: make it subtle, and be sure it integrates with the other elements in your card.

Beyond framing, there are many more uses of stitching. Secure vellum without the need of glues. Create pockets for goodies. Make objects from scrap paper. You can even try running a blank card through the machine without thread for a pierced background.

I also like to use different stitches on one card by combining straight and zig zag stitches. Frame small pieces with varied stitches for a quilt like collage. I always try and keep it simple and uncluttered.

Needle Stitching
If you don't own a sewing machine, don't worry, all you need is a needle and thread. Pierce the paper first with a needle from the front side, creating your pattern. When complete go back through with the threaded needle. To make even stitches, you may want to mark your paper gently with a pencil and ruler, and then pierce. Erase the pencil works when finished.

By hand stitching, you can use cross type stitches and the ease of changing color threads.

However you decide to sew on your cards, be sure to have fun and find your style.