What is a fat quarter?

1. A fat quarter is a quarter of a yard (just under 1m) of fabric which measures 46cm x 53cm, in other words, 1/2 yard of fabric which is then cut in half parallel with the selvedge.

2. Fat quarters are very useful as you can cut a larger variety of pieces from them given the ‘extra’ height and allows for more pieces to be cut on the vertical grain of the fabric.

Stitch a Sausage Dog

1. Locate the dog template on this website and use it to cut two shapes from brushed cotton, ensuring the print is the correct orientation, and pin right sides together. Cut four ears and two tails from spotted fabric, pair up right side together and sew around each piece, leaving a small gap. Turn out and press.

2. Position the ears and tail pieces inside the brushed cotton shapes, lining up the raw edges of them to the edges of the dog. Sew around the shape, fixing the features in place and leaving a gap along the back. Turn out and stuff firmly before closing the edges with ladder stitch.

3. Check the position of the features and if necessary adjust with a few small stitches. Use two strands of black embroidery thread to hand sew eyes, nose and mouth.

Sew a Pot Holder

1. Cut two squares o