Can you teach yourself to sew? Tips & steps

The good news first: Yes, you can easily teach yourself to sew! Thanks to numerous books, online courses, and tutorials, it's easier than ever to learn the art of sewing at your own pace. In this article, you'll learn exactly how to get started, what materials you need, and which projects are perfect for beginners.

Can you teach yourself to sew? Finding the perfect learning method

Learning to sew on your own is definitely possible and even recommended, as you can progress at your own pace. Here are the best ways to learn to sew:

• Online courses: Structured courses like the SewSimple sewing license guide you step by step into sewing without overwhelming you.
• Sewing books: A good sewing book teaches the basics while also offering inspiring projects. Books like "Just Sew" are ideal for beginners.
• Video tutorials: Visual instructions help you to see and replicate techniques directly.
• Practice through projects: Choose beginner-friendly projects that are marked "Sewing level: easy".

The great advantage of self-learning is that you can take breaks whenever you want and repeat certain parts as often as you need until you truly understand them.

What are some good sewing projects for beginners?

As a sewing beginner, it's important to start with simple projects that offer quick success. When choosing a project, look for labels like "Sewing level: easy," "Experience level: light," or "suitable for beginners."

Here are some perfect entry-level projects:

• Simple cushions with straight seams
• Reading bone
• toiletry bag
• Simple bags
• Felt keychains
• Baby scarves
• Simple loops/tube scarves

These projects usually only require straight seams and are easy to manage even with little experience. With each completed project, your confidence and skills will grow.

The right materials for getting started with sewing

Materials and substance science

You don't need expensive special equipment to get started with sewing. With just a few good basic materials, you can already create fantastic projects.

Fabrics for beginners

Fabric choice is crucial for your sewing success. Here are the best fabrics for sewing beginners:

• Cotton woven fabric: Uncomplicated, durable, and forgiving of repeated unpicking. Perfect for cushions, bags, and placemats.
• Felt: Does not fray, ideal for projects with raw edges. To begin with, choose a felt that is not too thick (approx. 2 mm).
• Jersey: Good for first garments like simple shirts or briefs. Often made of cotton with some elastane for stretch.
• Sweatshirt fabric: Thicker than jersey, less elastic and retains its shape well. Ideal for clothing for children and adults.

To begin with, avoid complicated fabrics such as slippery silk, lace, or very stretchy materials that can challenge even experienced sewers.

Basic equipment for sewing beginners

The following materials should be part of your basic equipment:

• Sewing thread: Invest in 2-3 spools of high-quality, all-purpose sewing thread from brands like Gütermann or Mettler. Cream-white, medium gray, and a vibrant red are versatile.
• Nonwovens: A Vlieseline H250 as pocket nonwoven and a Vlieseline H630 as volume nonwoven cover most requirements.
• Fabric scissors: A good quality pair of fabric scissors is an investment for life.
• Thread scissors: For precisely cutting threads.
• Paper scissors: For cutting out patterns.
• Fabric clips or pins: For fixing the fabric pieces.
• Measuring tape: For precise measurements.
• Seam ripper: Indispensable if something goes wrong.
• Iron: For smoothing fabrics and ironing on interfacing.
• Trick markers or chalk: For transferring markings.

How do you start sewing? The perfect start

Getting started with sewing should be well-prepared and done without rushing. These steps will help you get off to a successful start:

1. Setting up a sewing corner: Ensure you have a sufficiently large table and good lighting. A daylight lamp is ideal.
2. Plan your time: Choose a day for your first sewing project when you can work in peace.
3. Getting to know your sewing machine: Study the instruction manual for your machine and practice threading it.
4. Use practice sheets: Start by sewing on paper to get a feel for the machine. Try curves and corners too.
5. Test stitches: Practice straight stitch and zigzag stitch on fabric scraps.
6. Preparing fabrics: Wash and iron your fabrics before sewing to prevent them from shrinking later.

Learn to sew step by step: Your first project

Here is a detailed guide on how to successfully complete your first sewing project:

1. Select a project: Choose a beginner-friendly project from the list above.
2. Gather materials: Purchase all necessary fabrics and accessories.
3. Prepare the fabric: Wash and iron the fabric.
4. Read the instructions: Mentally go through the entire instructions once before you begin.
5. Prepare the pattern: Print out the pattern or trace it.
6. Cutting: Place the pattern on the fabric according to the grainline, pin it in place and cut it out.
7. Check seam allowance: Check whether the seam allowance is already included in the pattern or whether you need to add it.
8. Pin the fabric pieces together: Place the fabric pieces right sides together and pin or clip them together.
9. Preparing the sewing machine: Insert the correct needle, wind the bobbin thread, and thread the upper thread.
10. Test the stitch setting: Try out the stitch setting on a scrap of fabric.
11. To begin sewing: Place the fabric under the presser foot, lower it, insert the needle into the fabric and begin sewing.
12. Secure the seam: Secure the beginning and end of each seam with backstitches.
13. Press seams: Shape and press the finished seams for a professional result.

Perfect projects for sewing beginners

Depending on your interests and tastes, you can choose from various beginner projects:

• For babies and children: sleeping bag, baby scarf, baby shirt, baby bodysuit
• Clothing for adults: halter top, simple jacket, skirt, dress, men's shirt, beani
• Accessories: Patchwork loop made from leftover fabric

These projects are all designed to be successful even with little sewing experience, quickly giving you a sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion: Teaching yourself to sew is absolutely possible.

Teaching yourself to sew is definitely possible and can be a lot of fun. With the right materials, a little patience, and beginner-friendly projects, you'll make rapid progress. The most important thing is to take the pressure off yourself and enjoy sewing as a creative hobby where you learn something new with every project.

Start with simple projects, be patient with yourself, and celebrate every success. Before you know it, you'll be able to tackle increasingly challenging projects and be proud of your self-sewn creations!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to teach yourself how to sew?

The learning curve varies from person to person. You can learn the basics in a weekend. For more confidence and more complex techniques, you should plan on 2-3 months of regular practice. The great thing about sewing is that you learn something new with every project.

Do I absolutely need an expensive sewing machine as a beginner?

No, an inexpensive entry-level machine with basic functions is perfectly adequate. The important thing is that the machine reliably sews straight and zigzag stitches and comes with a clear instruction manual. It's better to invest in good fabrics and quality thread than in an expensive machine.

What is the most common problem faced by sewing beginners?

Many beginners struggle with threading the machine correctly and adjusting the thread tension. These problems often lead to tangled threads or broken threads. Take the time to practice threading using the instruction manual and familiarize yourself with your machine's tension settings.