Sewing teaches us patience — sometimes whether we like it or not. This week’s letters came from readers whose bobbins tangled, fabrics frayed, and tempers stretched tighter than their thread. Let’s unpick those frustrations together. Dear Anissa,I’ve been trying to hem my daughter’s dress for two hours. It keeps bunching and twisting, and I’m about…
AskAnissa: Fabric Fear
Dear Anissa,I’ve always wanted to sew with satin and velvet, but I’m terrified I’ll ruin the fabric. Any beginner-friendly advice?— Nervous Newbie Dear Nervous,The secret is to treat luxury fabrics like royalty — handle with respect and patience. Use a new needle (sharp size 9 or 11), a walking foot if you have one, and…
Ask Anissa: Faith, Family & Frustration
Faith and family: where patience meets purpose. Faith and family are two of life’s greatest blessings—and greatest tests. Between work, worship, and the ever-growing laundry pile, it’s easy to lose sight of peace. This week, we dive into questions about keeping calm, keeping faith, and keeping love alive when life feels like a traffic jam…
AskAnissa: Raising Respectful Thinkers
Dear Anissa,My teen’s political opinions are completely opposite mine. How do I guide them without arguing constantly?— Red Mom, Blue Teen Dear Red Mom,You’ve raised a thinker — that’s a win! Ask them why they believe what they believe, and actually listen. You’re not debating — you’re teaching how to reason, research, and respect. And…
Ask Anissa: Ideas for St Patrick’s Day & Small Children?
Fun St. Patrick’s day crafts for young children.
Home & Functional Sewing — Handmade Comfort
Few things feel cozier than handmade home décor. From curtains to cushions, home sewing brings personality and warmth to your space. “When your home feels handmade, it feels loved.” — Anissa
Ask Anissa: Politics, Parenting & Peace at Home
These days, even dinner can turn into a debate. How do we raise thoughtful kids and keep our homes peaceful when the world feels divided? This week, readers write in about balancing love and opinions — without flipping the table. AskAnissa: The Dinner Debate Dear Anissa,My family dinners turn political fast. I love my relatives,…
Ask Anissa: Glue Guns & Grace Under Pressure
Between melted glue sticks and midnight deadlines, creativity can start to feel like chaos. This week’s letters remind us that even when things fall apart, grace holds the pieces together. AskAnissa: Craft Room Meltdown Dear Anissa,My craft room is so messy it could qualify as a natural disaster. I love creating, but I can’t find…
AskAnissa: Creative Burnout
Dear Anissa,I used to love crafting, but now it just feels like work. How do I find my spark again?— Uninspired Artist Dear Uninspired,Inspiration is a shy friend — she only shows up when you stop chasing her. Step away from the glue gun, take a walk, or do something messy and meaningless. Creativity grows…
Ask Anissa: Marriage in the Middle
Communication isn’t just words — it’s tone, timing, and tenderness.