Tips for a sewing beginner!

@Jennlk84 (4205)
United States
February 24, 2011 7:28pm CST
I have just begun sewing. My husband was kind enough to purchase me a sewing machine on Black Friday. We got a really great deal on it. I also recently got a really nice sewing table. So now it's time to learn! I have a first project here that I think is a little tough for a beginner but I'm trying to work my way through. So for you sewers out there - what tips would you give a beginner? What should every beginner know? I did watch the DVD that came with my machine (so thankful for that) as well as read my manual and I've also had some great help from You tube videos!
1 person likes this
8 responses
@momof3kids (1894)
• Singapore
25 Feb 11
I think you should try with small projects first. Sewing needs practice otherwise your sewing will be crooked. How about sewing simple bags? Things that require you to sew straight lines. When you are satisfied with your sewing skills, you can progress to almost anything. The downside in any hobby is that if you find that you enjoy sewing, it is difficult to stop. So beware..lol!!
1 person likes this
@Ichiru101 (284)
• United States
25 Feb 11
One thing I have learn is as a beginner patterns are a must. I didn't think It was all that needed at first, but that was a mistake. My pants had one and short sides. Also when it is stuff just re thread.
1 person likes this
@cher913 (25782)
• Canada
25 Feb 11
i have a great idea for you! go to the library! most librarys will have books and maybe even dvds for beginners. my daughter wanted to learn how to sew last year (she is 13 and doesnt really do much any more) but of course, as a parent, you encourage them. anyways, we got out the book 'sewing for dummies' from the well known dummy series. it helped her quite a bit.
@piperu (113)
• Indonesia
28 Feb 11
Hello.. I'm also a beginner, my mom teach me. First, I start to sew a straight, such like baby blanket, for my cousin who will give birth soon. Than I started to learn to sew a circle or round. I make baby feed mat. I start with the obvious first. Baby clothes is an easy thing and simple. Good luck with your sewing :)
@Kalyni2011 (3496)
• India
28 Mar 11
Hi Jenn My hubby bought a sewing machine for me in 1968, it is by Usha company, Tailor model, made in india, manual model, it still runs perfectly. I stich our blouse etc with this Thanks for this discussion kalyani
• Canada
10 Mar 11
I'd say just keep your fingers safe, other than that you learn as you go. I love sewing as well and I learned everything on my own and as I grew I even started designing my own clothing with leftover peace of material and trims. It's fun so have a blast!
@jillhill (37354)
• United States
27 Feb 11
We are so lucky to have the internet...if you want to do a project you can usually find a video or instructions out there so you can accomplish it....I love sewing...hope you do too!
@bretay61 (722)
• United States
26 Feb 11
Take your time and start with something small.And got to the library as someone suggested.I get alot of ideas from the books there.Don't try for anything big until you geel comfortable or you will quit and it will still be sitting there later on waiting for you.I did that when I first started.I tried to jump in big.The main thing is understanding your machine.Play around with it and learn all the stitches it can do.And you'll also get better while you're playing.Good luck.