A Beginner’s Guide to Sewing

Photo by Sewing Daisies on Flickr - Creative Commons License

Photo by Sewing Daisies on Flickr – Creative Commons License

 
Many thanks to Agnes from The Quilt Pattern Shoppe for this helpful article!

There has recently been a new interest in traditional arts and crafts. Fiber arts, such as sewing and quilting, are now becoming very popular. Sewing is not only a fun hobby; it can also save you money. Knowing how to adjust clothing to make it fit perfectly and being able to fix torn seams saves you from buying new clothing. You will also find that making your own clothes, drapes, or other items is usually more cost efficient than buying quality things from the store. Finally, you are also able to create family heirlooms like quilts that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Quilt Photo by Quiltsalad on Flickr Creative Commons License

Quilt Photo by Quiltsalad on Flickr – Creative Commons License

Getting started can be overwhelming, but not if you take things step by step. Small projects can be sewn by hand, but larger ones will need a sewing machine. Look for a simple model and possibly one that is used. This is especially true if you are not sure if sewing is going to be a regular hobby for you. There are plenty of tutorials online, or you can take a class to learn how to use the machine. Do not be afraid to ask around, your friends and family may also have some experience and can show you the basics.

Generally speaking, you will need a pattern for anything you sew. A pattern acts as your instructions and guide. It ensures that the sections of fabric are symmetrical and even, and it tells you what kind of stitch to use. Patterns are usually printed on paper and then traced onto the fabric, this means you can use the same pattern again and again as many times as you wish. Some very talented people can sew by feel without using a pattern, but this usually takes years of experience. There are plenty of places to find patterns, including online resources like The Quilt Pattern Shoppe. You can also buy patterns at most craft stores.

You will also want to start building up your fabric supply. Yards of fabric can be bought at craft and specialty stores. If you are more interested in quilting, you can also keep an eye out for interesting scraps of fabric. Old clothing, sheets, and other sources are perfect for quilts.

If you are new to sewing, it is fairly easy to get started. Find a sewing machine that you know how to use, taking a class if necessary. Look for interesting patterns and fabric. The possibilities when it comes to sewing are endless, and you will love the creativity involved in creating your own crafts!


Copyright 2012 Agnes Embile Jimenez

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6 Responses to A Beginner’s Guide to Sewing

  1. Thanks so much for stopping by my blog!
    That quilt is absolutely amazing!! I’m following back on “Networked blogs”
    Thanks again
    Angie

  2. Laura says:

    Santa’s elves have told me that someone is shopping for a sewing machine for me, but has no idea what he is doing. I am not much help (non-sewer, want to experiment). Any tips?

    • Kathie says:

      My Mom and I have had good experiences with Pfaff (she had one for over 30 years) and Singer. I have a mid-range Singer that has served me nicely (but I don’t do anything fancy). Two tips – replace your needles before they get dull and keep the machine in good shape by getting it serviced every few years. I’m not an expert in sewing, but I’ve done a lot of quilting, some sewing crafts. Also some mending when I wasn’t able to avoid it. Hope this helps!

      If anyone else has suggestions, please comment here! 🙂

  3. Agnes says:

    Thank you so much, Kathie!!! Definitely bookmarking your blog.

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