By Sew to Speak Staff
The end of summer brings a special kind of energy and motivation for back-to-school-inspired projects. While some of us are getting ready for new classes and schedules, for many of us makers, this time of year offers a chance to dive back into creative projects. We encourage you to make this back-to-school season all about refreshing your creative toolkit, organizing your space, and starting (or going back to) those projects you've been dreaming of.
Whether you're sewing for little ones, updating your own wardrobe, or adding a handmade touch to your home, we have something to spark a must-try back-to-school-inspired project idea for you at Sew to Speak. Let's explore our fresh collection of fabrics, patterns, and notions perfect for the seasonal projects ahead.
Back-to-School-Inspired Projects for Makers
Projects with a Splash of Fun
Getting organized for a new season, especially when it's back-to-school time for your little ones, often means creating items that are both beautiful and functional. That's where Splash Fabric comes in. Similar to oilcloth, it's food-safe and waterproof, but its flexibility makes it a dream to work with and a reliable go-to for your home and kitchen projects. You can sew durable items like smocks, rain hats, pool or sports bags, cooking aprons, grocery totes, and so much more, all without the stiffness of traditional waterproof materials.
To get you started, the Splash Fabric website offers 15 free patterns. We've created samples of nearly all of them at our Sew to Speak store on High St. in Columbus, OH, so you can stop by and see what all the fuss is about. Feel the texture, see the possibilities, and get ready to make something truly useful yet uniquely yours.
Make a one-of-a-kind apron, tote, or tablecloth with our fun and seasonal collection of Splash Fabric and all back-to-school-inspired project materials available at Sew to Speak.
Trims and Tapes for Back-to-School Garments
Sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest impact. Elevate your handmade or even store-bought garments with our new selection of trims, perfect for going back-to-school in style and inspiring your next project. We have tons of delightful new ruffle cotton trims and tulle edge trims, like these beauties from Stephanoise that add a touch of personality to any piece.
We've created samples of nearly all of them at our Sew to Speak store on High St. in Columbus, OH, so you can stop by and see what all the fuss is about!
For a classic, charming finish, check out the beautiful bias tapes with crochet edges, like these from MODA. And for quilters, Bessie Pearl’s quilt bias tape and binding are game-changers, and their patterns scream back-to-school inspired. It’s an easy and beautiful way to pull a quilt together, helping you get it finished in time for your next cozy movie night or crisp picnic. Have scraps? Don’t toss them! Add a little decoration to a small pouch, think school supplies or household organization, or incorporate them into your next weaving project.
Crochet, ruffles, and tulle, oh my! Find all your bias tape and detailed edge trim needs for your back-to-school-inspired projects at Sew to Speak in-person and online.
More Finishing Touches for Every Project
If you're like us and love the Bessie Pearl line, you'll be delighted to know we have tons more patterns to show off. Fans of Heather Ross and Ruby Star Society will find bias binding featuring Heather Ross's iconic strawberries or butterflies, and Ruby Star's vivid and neutral patterns. These are available in both precut bundles and by the yard.
For quilters, whether you want to bling out your quilt with pattern-heavy fabric or sew something a little more calm, these fabulous Bessie Pearl bindings are here to make your quilting process a little bit easier. We also have a beautiful restock of Liberty Tana Lawn kits, perfect for creating something truly special.
Find endless inspiration for jazzing up your quilting projects with our binding collection, available online and in-store at Sew to Speak.
Stylish Back-to-School-Inspired Projects
As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to work on new apparel. We especially love back-to-school-inspired apparel projects and are currently swooning over these beautiful gingham fabrics that feel both timeless and trendy. Plus, they pair perfectly with our new bow and quilt square hair clips! These accessories are also a fun way to keep your hair out of your face while you focus on your crafts.
It’s the perfect time to whip up a stylish garment before the cooler weather sets in. These gingham options would be perfect for Syd Graham's Ruby Vest for yourself, or a sweet Cleo Frill Pinafore Dress from Two Stitches for your little one.
Quilting Inspiration for Fall
Back-to-school-inspired quilting projects are a wonderful way to welcome autumn. Think of when and where you could use your quilt this fall (maybe it's reading at the park or snuggling by a fire) to inspire your design. For a modern and eye-catching quilt top, consider the Ooh Lucky Lucky Tumbling Blocks in Lucky Pink fabric from Ruby Star Society. If you prefer a more subdued palette, we also have the Tumbling Blocks pattern in Caramel.
We're massive fans of Cotton and Joy's quilt patterns here in the shop, but did you know they also have amazing quilt-themed cross-stitch patterns and stickers? We have tons of different quilt stars and quilting sewing machines available. You can also grab some fun stickers that remind you to "make cool sh*t" (or "make cool stuff" for a G-rated version).
Be comfy, cozy, and colorful all of fall with our specially curated and vibrant quilting patterns that are sure to support your back-to-school-inspired project needs.
Let the Making Begin!
The "back-to-school" feeling and its inspired projects are all about fresh starts and new possibilities. It's the perfect excuse to organize your sewing space, learn a new skill, or simply finish a project that brings you joy. We hope these ideas and new arrivals have inspired you to get making.
Stop by the shop to see everything in person or browse all collections on our site. We are always here to help you find the perfect materials for your next creation. Happy making!
About the Author
At Sew to Speak, we are all about collaboration, and this blog post is no different! These words are a group effort with thoughtful input from our team.