We asked our sewing community what they wish they’d known when they started sewing, then compiled a list of "sewing truths" so that new beginners could learn from their experiences. Here are the Top 10 things sewists wish they had known when they started out.
1. Sewing is an addictive hobby
- Sewists joked about their sewing addiction sneaking up on them and taking over their whole lives.
- Family members and friends may feel neglected and wonder why the dining table is now a cutting station.
- You will need more space for an ever-growing stash…
Top Tip: Sewing is a lifestyle with messy side effects.
2. Preparation Matters
- Pre-wash fabrics in case of shrinkage.
- Ironing both before you sew and as you sew is not a “nice-to-do”; it may be boring, but it will always improve the finished item.
- Get the right tools in your sewing kit before you start. Invest in good scissors, needles and good quality thread.
- Take your time to cut carefully and mark patterns correctly to save a world of pain later.
- Always make sure you have the right needle in the machine before starting a project.
Top Tip: Be prepared for preparation to take longer than the actual sewing!
3. Pick a Project You Will Actually Use or Wear
- Most beginners start with an easy project like a tote bag or a pillowcase, but don't be afraid to start with something that excites you. One of our sewists jumped straight in and made the Merchant & Mills September Coat, asking endless questions along the way. While we admire the ambition, don’t start with a project that will be so frustrating that you give up entirely!
- There is no point in learning to make a ball gown if you spend most of your time in a t-shirt - learn to make the things you love.
Top Tip: Patience is a virtue when sewing!
4. Mistakes do not Equal Failure
- Everyone makes mistakes.
- Accept that unpicking is a normal part of sewing.
- Don’t expect perfection.
- There is a special place at the back of the sewing cupboard for mistakes.
Top Tip: Mistakes are a normal part of the learning curve.
5. Fabric Choice Can Make or Break a Project
- Take time to educate yourself on fabric types including weight, drape, stretch, and suitability for different garments.
- Buy fabric with a specific project in mind rather than picking the prettiest fabric for a mythical future make.
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Plain fabrics are more forgiving than prints (especially a stripe!)
- Wrong fabric choice can cause seam splitting, garments hanging badly and disappointing results.
- Make sure you have the correct needle for your fabric.
Top Tip: Fabric choice is as important as sewing skills, so make use of the team here at Fabrics Galore who can advise on the best fabric choices for your project.
6. Pattern Understanding is a steep learning curve
- Beginners always struggle to read and understand patterns.
- Start with beginner-friendly indie patterns rather than the “Big 4”.
- Don’t expect patterns to fit straight out of the envelope.
- Poor fit doesn’t equate to bad sewing.
- Read the instructions twice.
7. Fitting Skills and Pattern Drafting are game changers
- Many people give up sewing when me-made clothes don’t fit perfectly, but we all have very different body shapes.
- Take the time to learn about:
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- fitting adjustments
- pattern drafting
- why patterns don’t fit all body shapes
Top Tip: Fitting problems are normal, learning to adjust patterns is a skill worth nurturing.
8. The Sewing Community is Your Non-Judgemental Friend
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Find sewing friends in your area and online for advice and support.
- When you make a mistake, don't be afraid to ask for advice.
- Sewing buddies provide emotional support and encouragement to keep going.
Top Tip: Sewing is always more fun when you’re not alone.
9. You Will Rarely Sew for Yourself
- The moment you gain confidence is the moment you start sewing for others.
- Your own projects will take second place to Friends and Family projects.
10. Not Knowing Anything can be Fun
- A few sewists said they liked starting with little expectation and no rules.
- The sense of adventure and learning as you go was part of the joy.
The Collective Sewing Wisdom
Sewing is addictive, messy, joyous and infuriating but is deeply rewarding too. Beginner sewing is always full of mistakes, but every mistake leads to an improved sewist. Feel free to share your sewing insights with us or ask for advice. There is no such thing as a stupid sewing question!
Authored by: Annabelle Rigg, Online and Store Manager at Fabrics Galore London
Reviewed by: Paul Johnston, Owner and Founder of Fabrics Galore London since 1992
