When you first start sewing, stitch length is not something you really think about. You just start sewing with the default stitch length, whether that's programmed in a computerised machine, or whatever the dial is set on for a mechanical one.

Is that a bad thing? Probably not! Depending on what you are sewing, it's a good place to start and will work for most beginner projects. But as you sew more, you'll want to vary the length of your stitches, to suit your fabric and the purpose of your stitch. Here's everything you need to know about stitch length:

Is this the perfect tunic sewing pattern for girls? Check out my Nieuw sewing pattern review and find out what I love about this fun sewing pattern.

This month, as part of The Eli Monster ambassador program, I'm sewing something for me! The Artiest skirt is a panelled maxi skirt for women. Here is my Artiest skirt sewing pattern review!

If you love Christmas and you love Star Wars, why not combine the two with these Star Wars Christmas Cross-Stitch patterns?

Do you make your own Christmas decorations? I love giving a personal touch to the Christmas decor and making decorations that represent the personalities of the family. My brother has always been obsessed with Star Wars, so this Christmas I'm going to cross-stitch something with a Star Wars theme.

Llamas are all rage at the moment. There's something adorable about their face, and well the name is fun to rhyme with pyjama and drama.

Get into the llama trend with these fun llama sewing patterns:

Take a simple dress sewing pattern and turn it into this DIY witch costume for a girl.

This month's theme for The Eli Monster Ambassador program is Spooky/Sweet, and my thoughts instantly turned to Halloween. Halloween, where I live, is all about Spooky - no Disney princesses and superheroes here. A witch is the perfect costume for my daughter (and the easiest!): 

Looking for an easy skirt sewing pattern for girls? This cute DIY skirt has a flat-front and elastic back, so it's easy to get on and off, but looks great from the front. It's perfect to sew in a border print (Michael Miller Night Flower Fairies). Click through to read my Schatje Skirt sewing pattern review.

Who doesn't love pulling a warm and snuggly hood over their head on a cold day? My kids will happily pull the hood right over their face, if they can. Hoodies are a great wardrobe staple, from toddlers to tweens and teens. If you're looking to sew something stylish and warm, find the perfect kids hoodie pattern here: