Learn to sew? {Baaawaaaahhhahaa} I never imagined those words would ever cross these lips. I was, hehum, what you might call a tom boy growing up. You would never find me in the kitchen, reading a book, or much less sewing. I was the little girl always playing outside with my brother, climbing in trees like the little Sound of Music urchin children! But I DO! I want to learn.
I just adore Maggie’s beginner story… or maybe you know her best as GUSSY?!
But, where to start? Well, I’ll do what I know best… make a to do list:
1. Get a sewing machine.
2. Buy some needle and thread.
3. Go to library and check out some “how-to” books.
4. Stock up on Joann Fabrics coupons and gift cards.
5. Seek out some free tutorials online.
6. Become someone’s annoying patient apprentice! Mommy? tee – hee
7. Check out awesome Esty shop patterns/ideas.
DO YOU SEW? Will you share your ideas of how you got started? Do you have an Esty shop or other craft website online? If you do, would you so kindly slip in YOUR link below? I’d love to check out your beautiful creations!
In need of some affordable fabric? Check out this site!
Thanks for visiting!
Mrs. Stam says
I’m slowly learning too but I wish I was able to makes clothes, I do have to practice lots!!!
Lollie says
My mother in law taught me how to sew. I am a hands on learner, I needed to watch someone do it and them have them watch me and help:)
I saw a posting at our local fabric store for sewing lessons. If I didn’t have Mom I would start there.
I really enjoy sewing, I just wish I had more time for it! 🙂
Southern Gal says
I wish I lived close to you. I’d teach you! I was taught by a friend. I bought a cute hat pattern, (when they were all the rage), some fabric and we sat together as she talked me through it. She got a hat out of it for her daughter and I made one for Rebekah. I grew up on my grandmother’s knee while she sewed, but I didn’t know how to read a pattern. Start with a really simple pattern (a hat is NOT simple) and work through it slowly. As of two weeks ago, I’m helping a friend in her sewing business and making some money! (I posted some pictures a few days ago.) I love it. Hope you get some great ideas.
Holly says
Um- how about take a lesson from your mom? 😉
Once I learned how to use my machine, simple projects abound. I am making curtains right now- can make basic skirts and handbags. It is worlds of fun. Good luck!
Hannah says
You’ll do great. Sewing is very easy to learn, as most advanced work is only very polished basic skills (such as stitching straight seams.)
Excited for you! (And a note about fabric – sturdy cotton and cotton/polyester should never cost more than three dollars a yard max. Unfortunately, prices have doubled in the last few years – so watch for those sales!! =) )
Best wishes!
BARBIE says
Sadly, I do not sew. I wish that I had the patience to learn now. But I don’t. I am sure your creations will be lovely!
Homeschool on the Croft says
Oh me too! I have the sewing machine and over the years have made curtains and….er, curtains. That’s it! Nothing else. I’m thinking of beginning quilting over this winter – either that or making an apron. I really want to be using that sewing machine!! Keep us posted on how it goes – and keep giving me tips! I’ll let you know if I get anywhere with my plans too!
Love, Anne (from a very chilly Isle of Lewis, Scotland) x
Amy Sullivan says
I specifically clicked over because I too want to learn to sew too!
A few years ago someone even gave me a sewing machine, but it’s funny. I don’t know ANYONE who sews and so it sat and sat and sat. Finally, I gave it away. Sad story!
Seams Inspired says
There are TONS of easy projects out there in Bloggerville. I currently have some free doll patterns.
If you want to make your own clothing, there are many simple patterns. I’d start with a skirt, as those are easiest to ‘fit’ for beginners.
If you want something really easy to get used to your machine, buy some fleece and sew some Gators for your local homeless shelter. You don’t have to finish the edges of the fleece, and you’ll be able to whip up several Gators in a matter of minutes. Plus, it will feel satisfying to know you helped someone else while you’re learning your new craft. :o)
I’m happy to answer any questions you might have.
PS…You don’t need a fancy machine. Just get one that has a straght-stitch and zig-zag stitch. The ‘vintage’ machines are fabulous. You should be able to pick one up at a thrift store for around $10-$20. Then take it to be oiled and cleaned (usually $25-$50 depending where you live), and you’re ready to sew!
If you go the route of purchasing new, I recommend buying from a dealer rather than a Big Box (Target, Walmart, etc) store. They typically give free sewing lessons with machine purchases. Well worth the investment of a new machine.
As you can tell, I love to talk sewing. ;o) Hope all this helps! I can’t wait to see your first project! :o)
Kristi Lea says
My skills are minimal. I can do simple things, like pillow cases, striaght valances, window pannels, etc. I even made cushion covers a couple times, but we won’t talk about what the bottom looked like..hehe! What little I know, I learned from my mom. I was a 50/50 girl. I’d sew with my mom for a while, and then go build garages with my dad…plant some flowers, then go sandblast some pipeline.
I have found that practice, trial and error have really helped build my sewing skills. I would LOVE for someone to teach me how to quilt. I don’t know if I have the patience for it, but I’d sure like to try! I wish you the best in learning, Traci!
Amber says
No, I don’t, but I sure wish I did. I, too, was a tom boy who dabbled in sewing while at my granny’s. I think I could pick it up again, pretty fast, but I haven’t done it since I was 6 or 7.
jeana says
I just bought a sewing machine last week. Very intimidating for me! So, I’m in the same boat you are, but it sure is exciting! Good luck! Can’t wait to see your creations one day.
Emily says
I’ve wanted to learn how to sew. In fact, my father-in-law (he’s a sewing machine repairman) gave me a sewing machine a long while back. It is collecting dust in the bottom of my bedroom closet right now. My mother in law says to practice threading it and just sew. lol I am so clueless she put number stickers so I know where the thread goes next on the machine.
I should probably get it out and learn how to do it. Good luck in your endeavors!
Gussy says
Bend-the-Rules-Sewing was a huge help when I started ;]
http://www.amazon.com/Bend-Rules-Sewing-Essential-Guide/dp/0307347214/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_b/103-3070919-1291868?ie=UTF8&qid=1183370470&sr=8-1
HonorMommy says
Me Too! I’ve been dreaming of sewing for years now! Of course, I really only know how to sew a button, but I just upped the ante…we kicked our youngest son out of his room, moved him into his big brother’s space shuttle bunk bed and made his old room my sewing room…er…I mean…our “guest bedroom”. One of these days I might make my way to the curtain hall of fame…maybe even a new pillow case.
Oh, the dreams I have…
Tiffany says
Hi,
I just came across your blog (and am so happy I did!)
I can’t wait to look around more.
Here’s a link to my blog and some of my sewing projects:
http://meekandchic.blogspot.com/