forum I just bought a sewing machine. Any advice?

Started January 31, 2023 by @Masterkey

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Hey! I decided to buy a sewing machine on a whim lol. I just want to be able to alter my own clothes at the very least, but are there any sewers out there who could recommend any easy projects to begin with? Thanks!

So when I started sewing I made clothes for dolls, just to try and get an idea and practice. After that look up on youtube how to read patterns, which you can buy patterns at stores and such. After practice with that then maybe watch some more videos on how to make your own clothes. When making your own clothes I don't take my measurements I kinda just feel it out because that works best for me, but you don't have to do that. And if you don't have any experience I would HIGHLY recommend you fulling know how to use your machine before you use it

Good tips from @FallenSinAza. Definitely be safe! As for beginner projects, I would recommend starting with simple things like making a pillowcase or a tote bag. These projects are straightforward and will give you the opportunity to get comfortable with your machine and learn the basics of sewing.

Another beginner project that is both practical and fun is creating a patchwork quilt. You can use scraps of fabric and practice piecing together different patterns and colors.

If you're looking for something a little more clothing-related to start with, try making a simple skirt or apron. These projects will teach you how to work with fabric and give you the opportunity to experiment with different styles. There are lots of good tutorials online, too.

Remember to take your time and be patient with yourself. Sewing is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it takes time and practice to get the hang of it. Don't be discouraged if your first projects aren't perfect. Keep practicing!

@FallenSinAza @Mt. G Thanks for the advice guys! I'm excited to start

AVOID YOUTUBE unless it is an official or affiliate account (ie. Singer, or a Signer promoter) !!!! Sewing tiktok is okay for general advice. Look for patterns that are simple and boxy to start out with, the images on the back of sewing patterns will show how many seams there are so avoid ones that have tons of lines and pleats and gathers, as fun as they may look. Etsy is good for patterns and thrifted stuff can be a gold mine (If you want a ton of cheap fabric look as thrift store duvet covers and sheets just make sure you wash and iron them first).

Quilting can be a good place to start because of the simple shapes and the repetition of it will build up muscle memory.

Also, get a buttonhole and zipper foot from the same company your machine is from, it will save you hours of stress.

As someone who does sewing and fashion design, my own advice would be to start by making simple things, like pillowcases for example. As you get better at sewing things like that, then you can work on more difficult things, but start those with patterns! I know they're expensive!! (At least in my country they are), but they are the step-by-step guides that will help you learn about all you can do. Another thing to do is to really start paying attention to how clothes are made. I'm assuming you'll want to learn how to sew without patterns as well, right? Taking a look at the seams in the clothes you already have will get the gears turning. Keep in mind that I am self-taught, and have never taken a sewing class in my life. I learned through things like blogs and YouTube. I can recommend some good videos to get you started if you want?