How to Learn Sewing: A Beginner's Guide

More and more people eager to explore their creativity are drawn to learning sewing. It is a valuable skill that can unleash our imagination, but it is also very useful when it comes time, among other things, to make some repairs. If you have ever wondered how to learn sewing, you are not alone. Here is a little guide to help you start your adventure in the wonderful world of sewing.

 

Step One: Choose the Right Equipment

Before starting, it is essential to equip yourself with the right tools. You can start gently by getting only the essentials to get off to a good start:

A sewing machine: For beginners, a simple machine with basic stitches will suffice, the goal being to learn the basics and confirm your interest in sewing. You can borrow one from a friend or opt for a used model to start. You can always invest in a more complex machine later. Buying a serger or coverstitch machine is not necessary to begin.

Fabric: Ideally, start with fabrics that are easy to handle like quilting cotton or poplin. It is better, when learning the basics, to avoid slippery or stretchy materials at first.

Essential accessories: You will need needles for your machine. If you choose to sew quilting cotton or poplin as suggested, universal needles are recommended. Otherwise, you can watch this video to make a more informed choice. You will also need thread, scissors, pins or clips, a measuring tape  , and an iron for a better finish. Buying a seam ripper can also prove very useful.

 

Step Two: Get Trained

After gathering all the necessary materials, it is important to get trained to learn the basics. The internet is full of resources to learn sewing, and training with tutorials can be an excellent starting point. Platforms like YouTube offer free video tutorials, which is ideal for more visual learners. You can look for videos on sewing basics such as:

• Threading the machine
• Adjusting stitches
• Basic sewing techniques

There are also blogs and specialized sites that offer detailed articles and tips.

 

If you are less self-taught or prefer a more structured approach to gain confidence faster, signing up for a sewing classis an excellent idea. Local or online workshops are available to offer you this service. In fact, the NON NON OUI shop has a creative space where occasional sewing class. These classes allow you to learn under the supervision of an experienced person, get personalized advice, and meet other enthusiasts.

 

Step Three: Start with Simple Projects and Practice Regularly

Once you have acquired the basics, to build confidence, it is best to start with simple projects. For example, you could make a cushion, a tote bag, or a scarf. Again, you will easily find tutorials online to sew these projects.  These will help you master basic sewing techniques well. Moreover, as with any skill, practice is essential. If you dedicate time to sewing each week, even if only for a few minutes, you will more easily improve and be able to undertake increasingly complex projects.

 

Join a Community

Alongside completing these three steps, it is recommended to join various sewing groups. Being part of a community of people sharing the same passion can be a significant source of motivation and support, especially when you are just starting out.   You can look for groups on social networks, sewing forums, or in local clubs like a Homemakers' Circle. These are great places to exchange ideas, ask questions, or share your creations. This sharing will only enrich your experience. In fact, the NON NON OUI shop has its own sharing group on Facebook. In addition to finding many ideas and having access to some free patterns from the shop, you can also interact with other sewing enthusiasts who can help you with your questions.

 

Although learning to sew may seem intimidating at first, with the right tools, adequate resources, and regular practice, you will quickly be able to create unique and personalized pieces. However, it is important to know that one of the most important aspects of learning to sew is to accept that mistakes will happen. So, don’t be afraid to make them. Every mistake is a learning opportunity. It is therefore essential not to get discouraged if a project does not go as planned. It is rather a chance to analyze what went wrong, correct it, and keep moving forward. Whether you want to make your own clothes, accessories, or decorative items, sewing offers you immense creative freedom. So, don’t hesitate to get started and have fun sewing!

XOXO

Julie