How can I learn how to use sewing patterns?

Question

I really want to start making my own clothes, and I have a little bit of sewing experience (cushion covers, bags etc). I've looked at some patterns in the shop and they look so daunting I don't know where to start. I obviously know to cut everything out etc but not sure about what direction of the material I need to cut, and how I go about putting each thing together! Is it possible to learn it on my own without wasting loads? I have made a fancy dress costume and skirt for myself with no pattern just on a whim but they aren't exactly a wearable standard. Help?

Answer 1

Select a pattern that is labelled "easy" or designed for beginners and carefully follow the enclosed instruction sheets.  The instructions are quite detailed and include everything you need to make the project of your choice.  They include how to lay out the pattern on the fabric, cutting tips and how to construct the item from first seam to finishing details.  Don't pick a complicated jacket or a tailored coat or strapless ball gown for your first clothing project; do pick a simple top or skirt and make it in a fabric that you love.  Simplicity patterns has some good patterns for beginners; especially their "it's so Easy" line.  Kwik Sew has a line called "learn to sew" and these are fabulous, I use them in the classes that I give.  McCall's also has patterns suitable for beginners.  Just be sure to buy the fabric recommended on the patterns, read the instructions before cutting out, and follow all the pattern instructions in order, don't skip a step or jump ahead, and if you aren't sure of an instruction test it out by hand sewing it first and then see if your results look like the illustration, then use the machine to sew it.  With a bit of patience and effort you should be able to make the item of your choice quite successfully.

Answer 2

Most patterns include basic instructions, including how to lay the fabric, and fabric suggestions.  

Start by making a simple skirt, they are fairly easy and will build your confidence.

I suggest you take a look in the larger book shops and find a decent book, take your time to find one you can relate to.  A good book will have tips on layout, marking, pinning, pressing etc. and it will be worth it.

I've just started sewing again after a gap of many years and using my old book (Reader's Digest Complete Book of Sewing) to jog my memory.

Answer 3

well it sounds as if you have the basics already you need a bit of shove in the right direction! Some colleges and learning centres offer courses or could you ask someone who you know? Patterns are usually graded for difficulty, easy, intermediate expert etc, so i suggest you go and and get an easy one and open it up for a look, they all have detailed instructions on how to lay the pieces on the fabric, which fabrics are suitable for the pattern etc, it guides you through step by step and once you have done one or two you'll find that you can do it without the instructions - give it a go and good luck!!

Answer 4

Try looking in sewing machine stores for beginner lessons. One of the first things to learn is how to read a pattern.

Simplicity has several "Sewing for Dummies" patterns. It also has a sewing 101 help on its web site.  

Answer 5

Another thing they don't teach in schools any more!

Our local College of Further Education has evening classes in needlework; you could check out yours to see what they have on offer.

Do you have Granny?  I had to teach my grandchildren how to knit (another thing they don't learn in primary school these days) and have made complicated ball gowns, so I guess they may be knocking on my door again to ask how.

Answer 6

Most sewing patterns in the shops have detailed instructions in them, including which way to cut the fabric. Pick something quite simple at first but as you already have some experience of sewing you shouldn't have too much difficulty in getting the hang of it.  Good luck x

Answer 7

You might start with a basic pattern, perhaps one of KwikSew's KwikStart  patterns, which have directions in English, as opposed to PatternSpeak.

http://www.kwiksew.com/learntosew.cfm

Or better yet, try their free purse pattern -- it's written much like their other patterns: http://www.kwiksew.com/Projects/5001.pur... -- and you can "translate" from your previous bag making experience to the construction of this clutch, then proceed from there to patterns for clothing.  Many of the specialized pattern markings that are used on clothing patterns are included on that clutch pattern.

If you're feeling very much out of water, there are a number of sewing books probably available at your library.  Readers Digest Complete Book of Sewing and a similar title from Dorling Kindersley seem to come up most often in conversation.  Or you might consider the DVD just released in June: http://www.butterick.com/list/connie_cra... -- the Studio Sewing Skills.  The pattern being used in the video is the camp shirt from Butterick 5047.  The student had never sewn before starting filming, and the teacher is Connie Crawford, who taught patternmaking, draping and sewing for many, many years at FIDM (a professional design school) before "retiring" to work with those of us who sew at home.  The DVD also includes zipper application methods and several other basic sewing skills that aren't needed for the camp shirt project.

Other reading for you:

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http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00...

http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00...

http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/bt0...

http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00...

http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00...

And I will also direct you to Kate Dicey's site, as she speaks English Sewingese and I'm only fluent in American Sewingese.  Her learning zone area is very nice, and she's an intellectually generous teacher who seems to be able to find time to help folks.  She even pops up here from time to time:  http://www.katedicey.co.uk

Answer 8

The first article of clothing I ever sewed was a skirt. Find a patter for a skirt and try that first. It's not too difficult but I think it will help you get started.  

Answer 9

Get a book to show u how to