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Sewing for beginners
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items I’ve been sewing since I was little and my dad bought me my first machine. It’s a skill I think more people should have but I know how intimidating it can be. Let’s look at a few beginner friendly tools and resources to get you started.
Sections
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Tools
How to..
Beginner friendly sewing patterns
Fabric
Tools
The basic tools to get you started. You don’t need much.
You don’t need the biggest and best machine to get started. Choose something like this brother that has basic features that will be easy to learn and use.
Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine, 27 Stitches
Get yourself a decent pair of fabric scissors and DO NOT use them to cut anything except fabric. Paper dulls scissor blades, making it harder to cut your fabric.
Fabric Scissors
In addition to fabric scissors, I would suggest a rotary blade. It is much more gentle on your hand, especially if you are going to be doing a lot of cutting.
Rotary Cutter for Fabric
This isn’t absolutely necessary but I think it’s helpful to have a surface to cut on. It is necessary if you are using a rotary blade.
Cutting Mat
These are superior to pins. Just trust me.
Sewing Clips
How to..
A few videos on common questions a beginner sewist may have. YouTube is a great FREE resource.
A helpful video for beginners: How to thread a sewing machine.
How to Thread a Machine
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This is a helpful article about choosing the right fabric for your project.
How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Project
How to cut fabric from a pattern video.
How To Cut Fabric with a Pattern Like a Pro
Making your own pattern using clothes you already have is super cost effective and great practice.
How to trace your clothes and turn them into patterns
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Beginner friendly sewing patterns
Etsy is a great place to find beginner-friendly sewing patterns! There are so many to choose from. I like using Etsy to buy digital patterns because I can print them whenever I want. I also like reading reviews to see how others liked the pattern.
Sewing Patterns - Etsy
I love patterns from Oh Me Oh My. I have made a few and while they aren’t free, they are very affordable and easy to follow.
Children’s sewing patterns - Oh Me Oh My Sewing
Input your measurements and get your custom pattern, for free!
Free Customizable Sewing Patterns
This site has a ton of free patterns for beginners!
Free Sewing Patterns
Fabric
Fabric is arguably the most fun part of sewing! Finding the perfect fabric for your next project can be challenging at times. Here are some places to find fabric.
Another great place to order fabric from is Etsy! I have placed several orders from various shops. The best part? You can support small businesses this way.
Fabric - Etsy
There are not many physical stores to buy fabric at anymore! Unless you can find a local shop (which I totally recommend) your best bet is going to be Hobby Lobby.
Hobby Lobby
Spoonflower has a very wide selection of fabrics in every type you could need. Their website is also pretty helpful in determining if the fabric type is ideal for what you are making.
Spoonflower's Online Fabric Store | Fabric By The Yard & Precuts