How can I learn how to sew???

[Lisa_M]

My mom bought me this nice Singer (or maybe Kenmore...haven't looked at it recently) sewing machine 2 years ago for christmas. She sews (and lives 6 hours away), I don't. I'm ashamed to say, it's never been out of the box. I want to make a baby sling and can get a pattern online. I also want to repair my own baby blanket.

My question is if I were to take classes, where and how much do they usually run? We have no JoAnn Fabrics around here. I did sewing in Home Ec in 6th grade and sewed with my mom as child on easy stuff, but that was a LONG time ago. Also, if I just pull it out of the box, will there be enough directions for me to teach myself how to use it?

 

[JennyDrake]

There is a small book by somethign like "Palmer and Pletsch" that is an excellent book in sewing. It is very easy to understand.

If the machine has an instruction book with it, it may be enough to get you started.

Is there ANY fabric department near you? Hancock? Hobby Lobby? Walmart? I would ask the employees there if someone would be willing to give you a few lessons.

If you are near Nashville, TN, I would be willing to help you myself.

 

[Lisa_M]

There is a small book by somethign like "Palmer and Pletsch" that is an excellent book in sewing. It is very easy to understand.

If the machine has an instruction book with it, it may be enough to get you started.

Is there ANY fabric department near you? Hancock? Hobby Lobby? Walmart? I would ask the employees there if someone would be willing to give you a few lessons.

If you are near Nashville, TN, I would be willing to help you myself.

I'll check out the book. We have Walmart, but generally the people there look like they just cut fabric. I'll have to ask. We had a Rag Shop and they were really helpful when I had crafting questions, but unfortunately they are out of business.

I appreciate the offer, I'm in PA though. I think I just may have to try to get started on my own and then maybe my mom can help me when she comes to visit next.

 

[disneysuncat]

If you do want to go with lessons, you might check and see if you have a cooperative extension office in your area. We have one here and they have FREE one on one sewing lessons. I live in a smaller more rural area, so this may not be available everywhere. If you do, it should be listed in the government pages of your phone book under the county listings.

I have about every beginner's book there is about sewing. (as my seamstress mother has high hopes for her impatient not-as-talented child ) There are a lot of good ones, but nothing takes the place of opening that machine and giving it a shot. Best of luck to you!

 

[Lisa]

Have you checked with your town's rec department or adult ed? Perhaps they might offer a beginning sewing class.

Good luck!

 

[Lisa_M]

Have you checked with your town's rec department or adult ed? Perhaps they might offer a beginning sewing class.

Good luck!

ooh great idea! I always get adult ed course material in the mail from the CC, but never look at it. I will check it out. Thanks!

 

[AlreadyexcitedGrammy]

How about searching the web for sites (I am sure I have seen some shows on my tv listing re sewing) Also, check out your local library for books?

I am a crafter sewer not a "beautiful clothing" sewer but someday may accomplish that level, too.

Good luck - take a stab at it and practice that, I believe, is the key!

 

[Stephres]

The first thing I tried was a line of patterns called "Sewing for Dummies." It's by Simplicity and I like them because they explain all the sewing terms in the instructions. There is also a book by Simplicity called "Simply the Best" that is really helpful. I am not into classes and am basically self-taught. If I run across something in a pattern I don't understand I usually can find the answer by looking in my book or googling it. Good luck!

 

[Mom2Ashli]

Joann's Craft Store offers Beginning sewing classes.

They also have classes for Children learning to sew. My DD 8 took a little class over the Thanksgiving Holiday and she made a Pillow Case. It turned out very nice.