At some point, you have been looking at fabric and want to turn it into something the way you see in stores. I get a lot of emails and questions in video comments from beginner sewing enthusiasts. I figured I would pull this together for a bit of encouragement! You can do this! Trust me you can create an above average product better than a machine from China can! It may seem overwhelming when you are first starting out. I get it. The key is to keep at it.
I have a few tips to get you on your way to being the best sewing enthusiast!
Start with Simple Projects: Don't try to overdue things. Don't think you can jump right in and sew a pair of pants or a jacket without sewing straight lines first! The easy projects, like pillowcases, pillow covers, aprons, toiletry/travel bags, or simple skirts, can build your confidence and skills. You will be smiling from ear to ear at your accomplishment!
Use the Right Needle and Thread: Read the back of the needle package you are thinking of purchasing. Be sure they are either "universal" OR the brand for your machine. Match the needle size and thread weight to the fabric you're using. Lighter fabrics need finer needles and threads, while heavier fabrics require stronger ones. There are colors on the needles to help you tell the difference between them as well.
Learn to Sew Straight Seams: Look at some of my videos where I show how to line up your fabric under the foot plate. The groves/lines are your friends! Practice sewing straight lines by using the lines on your sewing machine's needle plate as a guide. This will help your projects look neat and hopefully, eventually, professional!
Press as You Go: Ironing is key! I mention this many times. Pressing your seams and fabric as you sew helps to set the stitches and gives your finished project a crisp, professional look. Almost like a shiny penny - finishing touches.
Clip Threads as You Sew: I call them "straglies." You know that if you watch my You Tube channel. : ) I don't know what everyone else calls them but.... trim those excess threads regularly as you sew to avoid tangled threads and messy seams. We don't want threads peeking through items.
Read and Understand Patterns: Take time to read through your pattern, if you are using one. Read the instructions carefully before you start cutting and sewing. If you don't know how to read a pattern, I have a video on the basics; Part 1 and Part 2 . Understanding the steps beforehand can prevent mistakes that could be easily avoided. and
Test Stitch on Scrap Fabric: Always test your stitch settings and tension on a scrap piece of fabric similar to what you'll be using for your project. This allows you to adjust settings without damaging your project. The worst thing is getting fabric stuck in your dog feeds and you are using your last bit to finish a project!
Pin or Use Clips: OK... I will be honest. I don't pin or clip all the time but you should, as a beginner! Secure your fabric pieces together with pins or clips before sewing to ensure they stay aligned during stitching. When interface is adhered to fabric, the material shifts.
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Once you cut, that's it... you've cut..... SO.... Double-check your measurements and markings before cutting your fabric to avoid mistakes that can't be easily undone. You will be happy you did because a yard of fabric can get expensive and if you purchase it on sale, you don't want to waste money by having to purchase more than you originally wanted!
Don't Rush: Sewing takes time and patience. If you're feeling frustrated, walk away and come back to your project with a fresh perspective. Even if it is a different day.... walk away. You will look at the project in a new way.
Finish The Seams: To prevent fraying, finish your seams with techniques like using French seams Watch my video) for clothing, zigzag stitching, serging (if you have a serger), or using pinking shears. We all love a clean seam.
Practice Regularly: Like any skill, sewing improves with practice. The more you sew, the more comfortable and proficient you'll become. Make things for family and friends. They will be amazed at your skill because they may not know how to do it!
Join a Sewing Community: Joining a sewing group or community, either online or locally, can provide support, inspiration, and valuable tips from experienced sewists. If you'd like to be a part of my sewing community, join my FB page if you have not done so already. Sewing Made Easy With Nikki.
Learn from Mistakes: Don't be discouraged by mistakes—view them as learning opportunities. Analyze what went wrong and how you can improve next time. Trust me.... I have screwed up many times! I am a self taught sewer.
Enjoy the Process: Sewing should be fun and enjoyable! Celebrate those small accomplishments and take pride in each project, no matter how small. It is all of the practice completing the small projects that will get you ready and excited about taking on the challenging ones! When you get there, tag me and show me so I can be happy with you! Tag me --> @sewnbynikki.
I hope these simple tips help you get started and help you find your way to building a strong foundation in sewing. Don't give up and shove the machine to the side. Wipe the dust off and keep at it! You will be amazed at the many things you can make yourself, in a fabric you choose, instead of buying it at the store. Little by little...stitch by stitch. You got this!!
Happy sewing!
Nikki
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