Talk to me about sewing-NBR

Mimaloo · November 2014

I just saw the craft post. I'm not a crafty person - I'd like to be, but I'm really not. One of the things on my to-do list has been learning to sew. My MIL gave me a nice sewing machine that she only used once or twice.

I figured I'd go on YouTube and watch some tutorials but there are SO.MANY!

So does anyone have a good tutorial recommendation? A good sewing blog for beginners? What should I pick up at the craft store before I start besides some fabric?

TIA!

rainbowsockmonkey · November 2014

Some craft stores have classes where you can learn to do sewing projects. The people at the stores teach them. It might be worth it to sign up for one.

hbird0723 · November 2014

I've basically taught myself as well through trial and error. My favorite quilts to make if you're going that route are ones I can use fusible webbing on where you just cut out the patterns, iron them on and sew around them. I usually do that by hand though and then sew the squares together on the machine. It might be nice to have a rotary cutter and board to help cut things. I have quilting books I bought at the store that have helped. I agree with taking classes too. My sister took one and said it was really helpful.

Mimaloo · November 2014

Thanks ladies. I'll probably start with @Babybarlow2014's suggestion and grab a book.

The only craft store I know of in my area at the moment is Michael's and I don't think they do sewing classes. But will definitely look into it!

ho11yday · November 2014

I also used the book that came with the sewing machine,; it was more on how to use the machine, but still helpful for basics.

pistolpackinmomma · November 2014

Must haves will be good scissors (I like fiskars, decent quality without being crazy expensive), a rotary cutter, a self healing cutting mat, seamstress tape (flexible measuring tape), bobbins, thread, needles, fabric, and an idea of what you want to make. For now I would probably start with some cheap fabric and just practice sewing small squares together. You'll want to remember to back stitch (start off going forward a few stitches, then reverse a few stitches, then continue forward) so your stitching doesn't unravel. You need to do that at the beginning and end both. Honestly, once you have the basic technique down its just a matter of following a pattern or being able to make your own. After a few projects with patterns you will probably be able to stumble your way through making something without a pattern or tweaking an existing pattern to work for what you want to do.

w028jrb · November 2014

Try craftsy.com - they have a TON of online learning tools (videos, Q&A, patterns, etc) for relatively cheap. There are a lot of free classes and patterns with instructions as well. I find it a great place to learn not just about sewing but all sorts of other craft hobbies. G/L and have fun!

flockofmoosen3 · November 2014

I also recommend getting a scissor sharpener to save frustration and money down the line. Mine are Fiskars brand. You should also have something to mark your fabric that wipes away it disappears...usually pens or chalk kept with other sewing supplies...

> large scissors
> scissor sharpener
> pins with the big round heads (easy to find if they fall)
> hand sewing needles
>thread (at least two spools to start)
> seam ripper!! Great for fixing mistakes
> floppy tape measure
> ruler at least 12"
> self healing mat at least 12"× 18"
> sewing machine needles (regular point)
> bobbins that match what comes with your machine (plastic or metal)
> mini scissors (cosmetic)

I used to make purses and made my own patterns. I also found a good square from the hardware store useful.

Mimaloo · November 2014

Wow thanks ladies! Hoping to make a craft store run tomorrow!

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