Learn to sew! Beginners start here!
, by Holly Hetzner, 4 min reading time
When starting a new hobby or project, sometimes the hardest thing to do is figuring out where to begin! Sewing and garment making can seem very daunting. How do I thread a needle? How do I set up my sewing machine? What's serger tension? What's a hem, a dart, or seam allowance? We're here to help! This post includes tutorials designed to get you up and running and sewing your first garment!
When starting a new hobby or project, sometimes the hardest thing to do is figuring out where to begin! Sewing and garment making can seem very daunting. How do I thread a needle? How do I set up my sewing machine? What's serger tension? What's a hem, a dart, or seam allowance? We're here to help! This post includes tutorials designed to get you up and running and sewing your first garment in no time!
Step 1: Learn the lingo. Get back to basics.
- Intro to PDF Sewing patterns {video}
- Back to basics: what is a seam allowance?
- What is grainline in sewing?
- How to find the grainline of fabric
- Understanding markings on sewing patterns
- Understanding fabric bias
Step 2: Measuring, pdf pattern basics, and fabric types
- How to take your measurements and find your size in PDF sewing patterns {with video}
- How to grade between sizes in PDF sewing patterns
- How to print PDF sewing patterns {+ video}
- How to cut, tape, and organize your PDF sewing patterns
- Add-ons to PDF sewing patterns
- Different qualities of knit fabrics and how to test them {+ video}
Step 3: Basic tools, stitches, and sewing techniques
- What is a rotary cutter and how to use one? {with video}
- Sewing pins or clips? What's the deal?
- How to use a sewing machine
- Why a serger makes sewing knits a breeze
- This is everything you need to know about sewing machine needles
- What is a twin needle and how to use one?
- Different sewing machine feet {+ printable chart}
- How to use stretch thread for sewing knit apparel
- How to thread a needle for hand sewing
- How to sew on a button the right way
- How to sew a perfect ladder stitch
- How to backstitch and why it's important
- What is a basting stitch and how to sew one
- This topstitching article will change the way you finish your sewing projects
- How to overcast stitch for pretty inside seams (without a serger)
- How to sew a perfect dart
- Learn how to gather fabric like a boss
- Why sewing a muslin will save time and tears
- How to sew knit neckbands, sleeves, and hems
Step 4: Find a pattern and get started!
We have lots of free patterns to try your new sewing skills. All of our patterns include detailed instructions and links to specific tutorials to help you along the way. So what are you waiting for! Check out our free patterns here! Free Patterns
-- article by Holly Hetzner.