Learning to machine sew can be a bit daunting. The initial investment in a sewing machine is relatively high and the space required to execute projects is larger than the couch on which you can sit and crochet, embroider, knit or hand quilt.
Added to this is the frustration of not having someone available to fix your mistakes and interpret patterns or terminology for you.
getting started
Assuming you have arranged to rent or purchase a machine or studio / stitch lounge time, your next step is to understand the basics of sewing. You don't have to dive into a complicated pattern or project to get started, the trick is to find the project that won't frustrate you on your first try.
Unlike other techniques we have highlighted in start, sewing may be difficult to learn on your own. While quilting involves sewing in a simple straight line, apparel and home decorating projects generally require additional steps such as buttonholes, zippers, pattern cutting, etc. Consider a beginner class to help you get started. At a minimum, have the sewing machine store demonstrate your machine and all of its features. If you have used a machine before, and better yet, have worked with simple patterns, you are a better candidate for self learning.
For online reference, I like the sewing.about.com site, it has a wonderful list of tips for beginners. There are also demonstrations of hand sewing and mending techniques if you need to freshen up your skills.
For an at home reference, I recommend The Complete Book of Sewing New Edition for beginners and Vogue Sewing for intermediate sewing. A newer book that has also received good reviews is The Sewing Bible: A Modern Manual Of Practical And Decorative Sewing Techniques.
While an investment, my favourite for advanced sewers is Professional Sewing Techniques for Designers. Another gorgeous book, that I have to admit I have looked at more than I have used as a reference, is Couture Sewing Techniques.
materials and tools
Most patterns and projects will provide you with guidance on the fabric choices and the amount of fabric you require. For some additional insight into selecting fabric, please see our choosing fabric post. Other materials you may require, specific to your project, include fasteners (buttons, zippers, snaps), interfacing, stuffing or batting, and of course, thread.
The tools you may need to hand sew include:
- Straight Pins
- Hand Sewing Needles
- Fabric Shears
- Seam Ripper, though small sharp scissors will do the trick
- Tape Measure
- Fabric Marking Pens/Pencils
- Thread
- Thimble
For machine sewing, you would add:
- Sewing Machine, which should come with:
- Sewing Machine Needles
- Bobbins
- Presser Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Small Screwdriver
- Sewing Machine Oil
- Small Brush
As with quilting, I would add an iron and ironing surface as proper pressing can make the difference in the success of your projects. Many of these items will be available for use and for purchase in our studio, beginning in January of 2010.
For more on sewing, please visit our sewing feature page.
