Dueling Threads

10/10/2026

I've started practicing making short content videos with the intention to post more how-to, instructive videos in the future. Be sure to go out and follow my channel on YouTube if you would like to see more! The next one I plan to create is for laser engraving curved surfaces and Christmas ornaments! It is so much fun.

09/17/2026

I want to share something new I’m doing.
As I start thinking about the next chapter of life (I hesitate to call it “retirement”!), one of my goals is to spend more time teaching and sharing the things I love. There’s something really rewarding about helping someone learn a new skill and then watching them take it and run with it.

I’ve always enjoyed helping friends with their sewing and longarming, and I’ve especially loved teaching my mom to longarm. Maybe someday I’ll get to do more of that, too!

For now, I’m extending this idea to a newer obsession of mine: laser cutting and engraving. 😊

Have you ever wondered about using a laser to cut fabric appliqué pieces, make sewing templates, add engraving details to projects or create other useful (and just plain fun!) things for your sewing room?

You might be surprised by how approachable the technology can be.

I’ve recently set up an xTool demo room where I can show you what the machines can do, answer questions, and let you see the process for yourself. I’m learning, experimenting, and figuring out how to make these tools useful for the things we actually do.
https://support.xtool.com/demo-room/host-instruction?id=3266&name=Elizabeth+Brown

And right now, xTool IS having an anniversary sale, so it seems like a good time to share!
https://www.xtool.com/pages/6th-anniversary-celebration-sale

If you’re curious, check out the demo room, schedule some time with me, and help me expand my teaching adventure. I’d love to show you what I’ve been playing with!

Come learn something new with me! ❤️

xTool is the industry-leading brand for digital fabrication. Find top-quality innovative tools, including (CO2, fiber, diode) laser cutters, engravers, welders, and DTF printers. Empowering creativity, helping people earn more, and making creation easier, more enjoyable, and rewarding for beginners....

09/16/2026

Sharing a video short I compiled when I made trading pins for the Next Level Maker Conference recently. I plan to try my hand at creating some more video content for my channel soon.

This was a short video I shared on social media of making acrylic t...

09/10/2026

09/03/2026

Making a go at a small business is real. It is really fun. It is really hard work. My mom (aka partner in crime) thinks that my sewing room is always clean. This is probably only because I hide all of the sticky notes that keep me "organized" before she comes over!

I am excited to share one of the things I learned about on my recent trip to Dallas for The Next Level Maker Conference. MakerHQ. Over the next 60 days I have the opportunity to test the new all-in-one platform designed to help makers manage and grow their businesses. Imaging getting to use one of those shiny new AI tools, but stack it on top of core tools that help organize your business all in one place. I was stunned this evening to find out that suggestions and feedback that I had given last night were already implemented 24 hours later. Speedge! (as my team at my day-job would say)

Is it perfect? No, but I am definately interested to learn more about it and help contribute to the community. The interface seems clean, and easy to navigate. If you are a maker or laser enthusiast and are curious to see more, check out this link. It will give you Pro access through October 30th.

MakerHQ is business management software connecting customers, orders, pricing, artwork, production, and fulfillment for custom-product shops.

08/30/2026

I’m unpacking and resetting after two trips that filled my cup. First I retreated with my mom and friends in Agency, Missouri. Then I spent 2 1/2 days at the Next Level Maker Conference. More on both later, but today I make for others, ship prep, and work on a little something for me. What’s under your needle?

07/19/2026

A conference I am attending soon is collecting lego sets and donations for the Wipe Out Kids Cancer (pediatric cancer charity) Buddy Bag and Warrior Parent Socials Programs. I love that they do this for the kids and families. https://nextlevelmakerevents.com/wokc/

We've received almost 80 boxes of Legos for Wipe Out Kids' Cancer so far and there's still about 8 weeks to go! 🎉 Our goal is to donate at least 500 boxes.

This year we are partnering with WOKC by collecting Legos and monetary donations for kids and their families who are battling cancer.

If you are able, please bring one or more Lego sets worth $30 or less each to the Conference and drop them in the collection bins at registration.

-OR- if you can't come this year and would still like to donate Legos, you can ship them to Mark's office by August 15th:

BigBlueLaserDesigns
3074 N. Aspen Avenue Suite 108, Broken Arrow, OK 74012

We are also collecting financial donations for Warrior Parent Socials to send the parents out on much needed date nights. ❤️

Please check out our website to learn more. You'll find instructions there on how to give financially from our community. https://nextlevelmakerevents.com/wokc

06/28/2026

Flag Appliqué Set – Fusible Backed for Raw Edge Appliqué

Flag Appliqué Set – Fusible Backed for Raw Edge Appliqué Set includes a fusible backed red and white striped "flag" and star block to match the stripes. Bonus "flagpole" also included....

Flag Appliqué Set – Fusible Backed for Raw Edge Appliqué Set includes a fusible backed red and white striped “flag” and star block to match the stripes. Bonus “flagpole” als…

06/28/2026

Stars, Stripes, and Stitches

Semiquincentennial. Say that that 6 times fast. By about the 5th iteration, you might sound like you have created your own language....

Semiquincentennial. Say that that 6 times fast. By about the 5th iteration, you might sound like you have created your own language. While I was busy beeing I also started to work on some patriotic…

06/20/2026

FlexBloom™ Thread Cutter

Give retired 45mm rotary blades a second life with the FlexBloom™ Thread Cutter. This magnetic thread cutter features a flower-shaped blade holder, honeycomb-inspired base, and magnetic mounting that pairs perfectly with your Flex Organizer™. Beautiful, practical, and designed for quilters....

Give retired 45mm rotary blades a second life with the FlexBloom™ Thread Cutter. This magnetic thread cutter features a flower-shaped blade holder, honeycomb-inspired base, and magnetic mounting th…