Sewing Tips for Beginners

If you are thinking about picking up sewing as a hobby, we have a few useful tips to get you started and inspired.

Always Measure Twice and Cut Once

It’s an old adage and we’ve heard everyone from carpenters to electricians to handbag makers say it. It’s good advice. So always double-check the measurements. 

Practice, Practice, Practice

Another old adage is practice makes perfect. This is true, again, in everything. When learning to sew, start with easy projects like making cushion covers for the living room space or pot holders for your kitchen. Learning the basics and sewing in a straight line first will set a good foundation for later more ambitious sewing projects. 

Clean and Maintain Your Sewing Machine

Keep all the parts of your sewing machine clean and those that require it lubricated. Fabrics pill and create a lot of dust, which can accumulate and slow down the machine or even jam some of the moving parts. When not in use, cover it to protect it from further dust or dirt. Always remember to read the care and user instructions for your machine. 

Invest in Good Quality Tools

Sharp craft scissors, a hobby knife and a good quality rotary cutter are essential. Dull cutting tools can fray and even damage fabrics, especially delicate ones. When cutting fabrics with rotary cutters, use a self-healing cutting mat to do so, these protect the blades from dulling so they last longer. 

Keep Paper Scissors and Fabric Scissors on Hand

Paper and fabrics are different fibers and have different wear on the sharp (cutting) edge of the scissor. Have a pair of scissors designated for paper only and another pair for fabric only. 

Buy Good Quality Pins and Needles

Cheap pins or needles can have poor-quality tips that may damage your fabric. Research the brands offered by your local sewing shop, ask the proprietor for advice on which they would use and read the reviews. Store them in a safe spot like a pin box or a pic cushion. 

Learn the Difference in Thread Weights

Just like fabric, threads come in many weights and fiber compositions. Take the time to learn which ones are the correct ones to use for the project you’re planning. 

Designate a Working Space

Have a designated working area and keep it organized. In small apartments, this can seem tricky at first. However, with all the many options available on the market, investing in a clever storage case to keep all your tools safe and clean is easier than ever. 

If your dining room table doubles as your pattern and fabric cutting table or your sewing table, invest in a large cutting mat. Lay it on top of your tabletop and use the cutting mat as your working surface. Store it under the bed or tuck it behind the dresser, but keep it away from a heat source so it doesn’t warp. 

Take Advice From Experts

Sewing has been around since prehistory, the oldest sewing needle found is thought to be over 50,000 years old, and many, many sewing techniques have been invented since. So trust the experts. Gather reading materials, books and watch videos of trusted sewers, quilters and tailors for tips and tricks as well as techniques.