I have never sewn in my life and neither has anyone in my family. Should I even bother trying? What should my first "project" be?
2006-09-23 13:56:24 · 11 answers · asked by Sarah H 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Perhaps your local high school has night classes or a Jr. college.
Check with a fabric store such as Hancock Fabrics or Joanne's Fabric' they might give classes or know of someone who gives lessons.
Start with soemthing by Simplicity patterns. They have patterns that have only 4-5 pieces. You can follow directions that come with each pattern or get someone to show you how to cut out a pattern, mark them and sew them.
I took sewing in school because it seemed an easy way to earn credits. I surprised myself by liking it and for years made lots of clothes for myself. I didn't have the money to buy them but looked for fabric sales and made outfits for special occassions.
Even the ladies who work at the fabric stores can be very helpful and will show you how to cut out and explain the terminology for sewing.
You can also start with something like simple pillow covers, napkins, or pre stamped patterns for making pillows, stuffed dolls, or holiday accessories.
Good luck!
2006-09-23 14:14:29 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Anyone can sew. Have you sewn by hand? A sewing machine just speeds up the process. Start with some cheap cotton remnants from the fabric store or curtains at the thrift store to practice on. Maybe someone who sews can guide you the first couple of times. Be sure to pin everything so you only have to do one thing at a time. Ask for a demo at the store where they sell sewing machines. You can save money doing your own hems, curtains, repairs of seams, etc. Start very simple and slow, then get a simple pattern and expensive sewing sheers (worth every penny).
2006-09-23 21:03:15 · answer #2 · answered by Aunty Pat 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, sewing can be a lot of fun. If you have a community college near you, they may have a short course on beginning sewing. That would be very helpful. Or do you have a friend or neighbor who sews that you can ask questions and get help when needed? I would recommend making something simple that you can use for your first project. A pillow, a skirt, an apron, or potholders are a few ideas. Once you get started, you won't want to stop. Enjoy!
2006-09-23 21:09:02 · answer #3 · answered by Rhonda 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been sewing since I was about 8 years old, started with a peddle machine, but I remember how hard it was to teach myself how to use an electic machine.[ 40 something years ago] You might want to take lessons for best results. Make sure the machine you buy is for a beginner as well the fancier it is the more frustrated you will be.
I remember all that but now I can sew anything.... once you learn to sew a good seam you can sew anything!!! Start with simple things.
If you have to learn yourself without help take it slow practice alot untill you get it then once you get it - you got it! You will enjoy it for years to come!!!!
2006-09-23 21:26:58 · answer #4 · answered by memm 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I first got a sewing machine I never had used one before either. If you have a Jo-Annes fabric store in your area, they give classes. I think your first project could be pillow cases and new covers for any throw pillows you may have. There are many different trims that you can sew onto them and with a machine its pretty easy. Start with an inexpensive material just to practice with, Wal-mart has material for $1.00 a yard. I think you might be amazed at how well they turn out. Just have fun with it.
2006-09-24 09:15:45 · answer #5 · answered by luckylindy0 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not easy to learn by yourself. Check with your community college and see if they have adult ed. classes for that.
Otherwise, ask a sewing machine dealer if they know where there will be classes.
My wife's late grandma in Mexico was sent to Puebla in 1910 for some months to learn to use her new treadle powered Singer, which is now 96 years old. (The S/N shows it was built in Elizabeth NJ in 1910, and so were hundreds of thousands of other Singers.
My wife has that old machine, and it works perfectly. Her grandma used to make wedding dresses and suits for men. We know other machines in her family still in use from the 1880's. Can you imagine what they would be worth in the US?
My wife has a new Toyota I bought her in Mexico City. I tease her that new machine will be in the dump some day, and that old machine will still be working.
2006-09-23 21:08:55 · answer #6 · answered by retiredslashescaped1 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First project I would suggest something simple....like a pillow. Usually the fabric stores and even some craft stores will have classes that you can take. Many of them are even free!
2006-09-23 21:26:26 · answer #7 · answered by Thomas H 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would check out what is available in the local high schools, they have adult classes in sewing and it would be good for you to take it, they will teach you the basics and that is a good start, try a apron or pot holders......
2006-09-24 01:20:00 · answer #8 · answered by churchonthewayseniors 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take a class, or find someone who sews to give lessons.
Good luck---I can barely hem pants!
2006-09-23 20:58:28 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Fabric stores give free lessons!
2006-09-23 21:44:53 · answer #10 · answered by whrldpz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋