Beginners Sewing Project?

Question

I inherited a sewing from my grandmother. It's not an antique or anything, but I am terrified to use it. I have only basic sewing skills. I am talking very basic, like I paid a girl in high school to do my home ec. projects. I am afraid of breaking the machine, or totally wasting fabric, because I don't know what I am doing. I don't have anyone to teach me. So any ideas on what I should do?

PS I am like the black sheep of the family, most of the women in my family are expert sewers. My aunt is a professional seamstress, so that kind of adds to the stress.

Answer 1

Practice on rags first (not cotton, something a bit sturdier). Try the different stitches of the machines, thread tensions, etc. Especially after trying each different thread tensions, look at the rag closely (do the lines look straight and snug?)  to know where the needle tension should be. Check both sides to see how the thread lines are.  Tension settings of course will vary a little for different fabrics, but it will give you an idea of what the machine should be set at.

2nd, read the owners manual (if you have one) to get a good review of the machines mechanics, how to set the bobbin, how to change needles, etc. If you do not have a manual, look up the machine model on the internet.

3rd, after you start getting comfortable with operating the machine, go to your local fabric store, or even Walmart, and buy an easy pattern for something you'd like to make. Think about material too. You don't want your first project to be frustrating by sewing something really stretchy, or sheer, as these take some experience to get the hang of. A really easy project is pillow cases. Just measure the ones you have for a pattern, and remember to take into concideration the seam allowance when cutting the pattern out. Typically your sewing line is 1/4" to 1/2" so you'll want to cut your pattern accordingly all around. Pillow case material is pretty easy to work with, and comes in many fun patterns. I started with pillow cases, then aprons.

Remember, there are tons of books and other resources to help you out. Make your sewing fun and creative! Who knows, Halloween is right around the corner, you may be making your own costume by then!

Enjoy!

Answer 2

You should ask your family for help, but if that is too miserable of a thought you could go to a fabric store and ask to see directions to how to operate a machine like yours.  Patterns help with the fabric usage.  Mostly you just need to be patient with yourself.  Expect that you will make errors, and be willing to chalk up any waisted fabric, broken needles, etc. to learning experiences.  Black sheep or not, if you are still in contact with them, your family they will probably be open to helping you if you really want to learn.  Plus it could be an oportunity to work on bettering the relationship if that is something that you would like to do.  You don't have to be good at something just because they are good at it.  You just be you and keep trying if it is something you want to achieve.

Answer 3

Check your local collage,some have classes. Or do what I did,just start sewing. I started with aprons and now,I am still making aprons.That's OK though,I mainly have mine to repair torn stuff. Byeee

Answer 4

I think it's great that you're willing to learn something new.  Sewing is a great skill to have and a fun hobby.  That said, it can be kind of intimidating.  www.sewing.org offers some great tips and help for sewers of all levels.  Many craft and fabric stores (JoAnn Fabrics comes to mind) offer classes for people of all skill levels as well.  Finally, almost all of the clothing pattern companies (McCalls, Butterick, Vogue) have a line of easy to sew patterns that actually do a great job of teaching basic sewing techniques.  Reader's Digest publishes a book called the "Complete Guide to Sewing" that outlines both beginner and advanced techniques.  Like one of the previous posters, the best thing to do is to practice.  Things like aprons, pillows, curtains and tote bags are a great way to get your feet wet.  if you're more interested in apparel, skirts are generally pretty easy.

Good luck and enjoy!