Janome Skyline S9: Guitar Strap

Here it is guys, the last project I made with the Janome Skyline S9 Sewing/Embroidery Machine!

A while back, one of Drew’s friends asked me to make him a guitar strap, and while I am a very selfish seamstress, I thought, sure it can’t be that hard to make right? So I let it go for a few weeks because so many other projects were on my list, and then I realized I could do some really cool embroidery designs on the strap! I was actually really nervous to make this because I wasn’t sure how it would work with the hoops and designing a strap with just a 2″ width that would show any stitching. Since making a few pieces previously, I knew that most of the embroidery designs within the machine were large so I had to think a little more careful about this project.

Sometimes the answer to a problem hits you right in the face… Inside of the top cover of the machine is a reference chart for all the stitches that are built into the machine. Since I was constantly changing the thread colors while doing embroidery, this cover was always up, staring at me. That’s when I decided to do a bunch of the decorative stitches featured on this chart! My personal machine comes with just the basics, a few zig zag stitches, and since I don’t use the decorative stitches that often, I usually forget about them.

I used the tutorial from One Shabby Chick with a few adjustments. I started the stitching on a large piece of fabric to test out colors and stitches, but liked what I was working on, so I kept going. I didn’t cut enough fabric originally so I had to patch things a little. I needed an extra 5″ to make the strap, and instead of patching more stitch designs, I thought this would be a good opportunity to add in some real embroidery.

I used another Anna Maria Horner Design for the center of the strap. The design was still a little large so I was able to make it smaller on the machine before sewing. I have loved being able to alter designs in size and direction on the screen of the machine. It was so easy!

The strap pieces came from a lovely little shop on etsy, super quick shipping and great product- definitely recommend!

Do you like my makeshift guitar? The other night I realized I needed something to show in photos and made a little cardboard guitar! It’s a little small but does the trick! =D

These projects are just the start of what you could do with this machine. Yes, I’m selling it big time because I believe in it and how useful it would be to have in your sewing room. I am completely amazed at its capabilities. If you are looking to get a new machine, or just want a fun addition to your collection, I highly suggest you check out the Janome Skyline S9. And just to clarify, I am not getting paid to write this, I was so fortunate to test this machine and every single word written about it has been my honest feedback.

After this post we will be back to regularly scheduled, un-embroidered projects! Thank you for reading all about my projects, and a super special thanks to the amazing team over at Janome for letting me test this awesome machine.

And a quick post to let you know (in case you didn’t see it on Instagram): This is my winter craft show lineup! December 3 & 4: Hoboken Holiday Craft Show and December 10: Brooklyn  Bust Craftacular! I will be there selling my bags, so if you are in the area, stop by & say hi and pick up some great handmade gifts for this holiday season!