How do you learn how to sew and follow a pattern?

[Jessd]

Ok, I admit, I didn't pay attention in my home ec class. I did make a pillow and an apron though.

I want to learn how to sew. I have a sewing machine, don't know how to do anything but sew a semi-straight line.

How do you learn how to sew and follow patterns? DD is 20 months and I want to learn to make her some cute clothes like the custom ones you see on Ebay.

Where should I look? Can you learn to sew from a book?

 

[Jessd]

bump

 

[asta]

I have sewn for so long that it is hard to remember how I learned but I know I started out by sewing easy projects. The rest has just been learning by experience. I think that most patterns have excellent instructions. You just need to follow them step by step. I have usually found that even if I didn't understand what I was doing, it all works out if you just carefully follow the instructions. I would suggest that you start out with easy to handle fabrics like cotton. Don't experiment at first with expensive fabric. If you still feel like you need a class, look for a class at a store like Joann's.

 

[figment52]

If there is a fabric store near you contact them. They often have classes or could probably steer you to one.

 

[malibuconlee]

I would second looking into taking a class. Check with a fabric store locally.

I'd love to be able to sew. We bought my mom and step dad a t-shirt quilt for Christma, well we had it made. The lady that did it did a great job.

 

[liamandcaili]

I would agree with the above poster. Start with something simple. In that line, you might want to start with a Halloween costume. The costume patterns are usually pretty easy and don't require too much experience...plus, if you mess up, it's going to be dark and no one will notice However, they will give you experience sewing sleeves and collars and sometimes even with gathering. The first thing I ever sewed was a lion costume for my DS...then 18 mos. My mother said, "The costume is wonderful! Where did you get it?" When I said I made it, she couldn't believe it.

 

[bobcat]

Home Ec teacher weighing in here. Not all patterns are created equally!!! Until you become more comfortable with your sewing skills stay away from the $.99 special sale patterns. There are many times when I have used these and they have left out a step or had completely convoluted directions. If I didn't know what I was doing I would never have been able to finish the projects.

You can always check your local fabric store for classes or even your local vocational school. Many Vocational schools will offer adult classes as well. I would start telling people you would like to learn how to sew. Someone may offer to teach you. That's how I learned how to knit.

Good Luck. Start out slow and you will be whipping up beautiful dresses for your daughter in no time.

 

[dbarker]

I have found that Simplicity Patterns have the best instructions.

 

[Linnie The Pooh]

I learned in home ec and then in 4H I sewed a little. Sewing is not easy-I would definitely recommend taking a class. With all the abbreviations and terminology, it's like learning a foreign language and that is before you even start to sew. It can be very frustrating if you try to go it alone.

I like the Sewing for Dummies patterns b/c they're pretty easy. As one poster said, Halloween costumes are usually pretty easy to maneuver. Some patterns list on the pattern if it's for a beginner or different level.

Another good place to look for classes are sewing machine stores. They usually offer some classes. Good luck. I love to sew!

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

simplicity is my friend.

I remembered some basics from home ec--but I usually purchase the simplicity pattern b/c it is...well....simple. Any unusual pattern marking I ask my step mother.

Don't be afraid to not have a perfect project.

I have made costumes and I made some dresses for 4th of July last year. I am by no means good. The patterns the girls selected (Simplicity of course) required buttons and to be honest--I still need to learn how to do that and was in a time crunch. So I cheated. Instead of the dress being full button up the front--I stitched from a couple inches from the bottom to the bodice (making it permanent) and then sewed in snaps on the bodice. I had real buttons on the outside--so it "looks" like it is supposed to be....but I cheated. It wasn't my first project but I was being lazy.

Don't be afraid of the imperfections--my girls love their dresses. They have no clue that I modified and they have no idea that oops--it's a little crooked stitch here or an imperfect strap there.

Simplicity is pretty good about ID'ing markings--I still don't know how to read the charts on the back of the pattern properly that tell you what notions (things like buttons and stuff) and fabric I need. I pick out my pretty fabrics---then the ladies cutting the fabric help me find the correct amount on the chart and then explain what the notions are and where to find them.

ETA: I forgot to mention that I thought my sewing machine was broken--even going as far as taking it to a repair shop b/c I couldn't get it threaded properly. Then it kept happening. Lo and behold my hubby pointed out that the wheel can turn in both directions and if I turn it the proper way--it will thread. I made 2 costumes in 2 different years before this lightbulb moment.

 

[SunFloridaDisney]

I'd also suggest taking a class. Unless you are the type of person who can "get" things from following a book. I find it easier to have someone show me, I seem to learn better that way.

I took classes in 7th grade but not at school. A woman in our neighborhood gave classes, and I've been sewing ever since.

Good luck, sewing really is a fun and practical thing to do.

 

[froglady]

My mother taught herself, up to a basic level. Then she found more experienced seamstresses to help her with knits, serging, etc.

I myself have made several costumes, including one without a pattern. (I used butcher paper to "draw" it.) I have several books that belonged to my mother which have directions for simple (and not so simple) household projects. I made curtains, placemats, pillow covers, etc.

DD has also made duvet covers, pillows, curtains, and simple skirts.

As others have suggested, start with easy projects that don't involve buttonholes, zippers etc. Then work your way up to more difficult items. Just like any other skill, you will need to start with the basics, and can only improve with practice. If you can't sew a straight seam, keep practicing before you try to insert a zipper, set a sleeve, etc.