I can hand sew and use a sewing machine but I've never followed a pattern before. I'd like to start sewing some of my own clothes but I'm a little nervous about using a pattern.
Any tips?
2007-12-29 12:06:43 · 8 answers · asked by Due March 9th, 2010 5 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
Good for you!! Very often you can take courses at night school that would teach you how to sew from a pattern. If you want to teach yourself, you might want to start with something simple - like a sleeveless nightgown that has a yoke and set in sleeves. The next project might be a skirt and blouse - with button holes. From there you could go to a dress with zipper and then slacks. Getting a pattern that fits to your body shape is important, so be sure to take accurate measurements (measure 2x, cut once). You might also ask in your circle of friends and acquaintances if someone would be willing to teach you. Have fun learning and Happy Sewing!
2007-12-29 13:15:16 · answer #1 · answered by Mawia 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Look for the Easy clothing patterns -- packages usually say the level of difficulty. Most patterns have clear instructions -- but you also might consider either borrowing or buying a book on how to sew clothing as there are some things that patterns do not explain well. Also be sure to take your body measurements and buy a pattern that is as close to your size as possible -- a pattern does not tell you how to do alterations if needed, so this is where a "sewing for dummies" or other instruction book comes in very handy. There are also a couple of good sewing magazines available that have tips and instructions on sewing -- One is Threads Magazine mostly for more advanced sewers and Sew Stylish another magazine that might help with sewing clothing.
2007-12-29 13:15:09 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since you already know how to sew on a machine, it's only normal to progress to using patterns. They're not hard. Maybe you should try a simple pattern first? They do have some clothes patterns that are super easy for the beginner with easy lines in the clothing and not to many extra steps. You just follow the instructions for the order the pattern says to sew each part. Not too hard.
Maybe practice with a pattern for making things for your sewing room to learn to follow a pattern would be a good place to start too! You know, one of those patterns that makes a machine cover, pin cushion, etc. Or some other pattern similar to that.
You might consider buying Sewing for Dummies. It's a great handbook! I have the Quilting for Dummies and it is great too! Also maybe one of Nancy Zieman's books. She always does clothes on her show and has lots of great tips and projects.
Good luck and happy sewing!
2007-12-29 13:07:33 · answer #3 · answered by Julie C 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Start with Simplicity or Mc Calls, easy or very easy. The instructions are the easiest to follow....I have found.
Even though the lines on these patterns are very simple it is in the fabrics and the finishing touches you use that will make it your own. Think outside the box if you are looking for original looks in what you make.
When I was in design school I was not the most innovative designer, nor was I the best seamstress, but I was recognized for most creative use of textiles because I did not stick to the conventional.
Once you get used to using patterns it is very easy to mix and match different parts to get just the look you want, especially with the simpler patterns.
Good luck!
2007-12-29 13:32:22 · answer #4 · answered by LPett 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you're already sewing, are you making your own patterns? That's how I started. It was hard to switch over to someone else's ideas (i.e., a printed pattern) but it was worth learning. Now that I can do both, I only use purchased patterns when I absolutely have to because mine are tons simpler and fit me better. If you're already making your own patterns, decide whether you really need to use someone else's ideas.
2007-12-29 14:00:27 · answer #5 · answered by thejanith 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there are patterns that are marked easy. Just follow them step by step and you shouldn't have any problems. Do you have any family or friends that sew? Go to your local fabric store or walmart that sells patterns. They should be able to help you. Simplicity and McCalls have patterns that are easy to use. GOOD LUCK!!
2007-12-29 13:49:40 · answer #6 · answered by Cheryl H 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Start with patterns labeled "easy" or "beginner". It will be easy to follow because they include step by step directions.
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2007-12-29 13:07:54 · answer #7 · answered by Kacky 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
just read...it's easy..
2007-12-29 13:07:11 · answer #8 · answered by Chrys 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋