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What to start with when learning how to sew?

February 13th, 2013 4 comments

Hello,
I decided I would really like to learn how to sew but right now i have no idea how to. I was just wondering how you started (sewing clothes for dolls, reading books,etc) and any advice on how I should as well.
Thanks!

Although it’s certainly possible to learn to sew all on your own, just from books and experimentation, it’s easier for almost everyone if you take a few classes along the way — either informally from family and friends, or formally from teachers.

Assuming it’s machine sewing you’re interested in, I usually start beginners with projects like pillowcases or drawstring bags, tote bags, tool or jewelry rolls, pj pants or nightgowns. My own first hand sewing experiences were in embroidery, then hemming dishtowels; my first machine sewing was cafe curtains, when I was not quite 6.

Your first challenges will include skills like cutting accurately (easier said than done!), learning to control the sewing machine, stitching straight and curved seams accurately, pressing seams correctly and learning to select fabric and pattern that can work together.

If you’re thinking about buying a sewing machine, and you happen to have classes available that will let you use someone else’s sewing machines, I’d suggest you go that route for first experience; then you can better judge machines when you go looking. http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100120140429AApYwiY

Where to find lessons: 4H, if you’re young enough; fabric stores and sewing machine dealers; adult ed and community college classes, private lessons. If you’re in the US and stuck, try contacting the local chapter of ASG, American Sewing Guild (http://www.asg.org) to see if someone can suggest a teacher. Good books to start with include Simplicity’s Simply The Best Sewing Book (which has a home-dec leaning), Connie Crawford’s Guide to Fashion Sewing (strictly garments), and the good ol’ Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. There are also videos and DVDs available; one I particularly like for a beginner is Crawford’s Studio Sewing Skills, which starts with learning to thread a sewing machine and progresses through basic clothing construction, step by step. Check with your local library and grab some books or videos and start playing with some fabric!