Have you tried to learn to sew, only to end up with snarled thread and torn, puckered fabric? Do you feel lost when others say, "just take a tuck in this" or "that would be so easy to hem"? Do sewing machines and accessories leave you mystified? Do not despair. I've been there too. In fact, I'm still there, to a large extent. Unlike other crafty skills I've acquired, sewing has been harder for me to pick up. But as I learn the basics, I realize that a large part of the difficulty has been with the "beginner" materials I've seen, which assume a certain level of knowledge before you even start. Sewing 101 is a weekly series in which I'll provide basic sewing information in plain language. Below the jump, I'll introduce some equipment that you will need to get started.
Sewing machine. A basic machine is all that is needed to get started with sewing. The machine should be able run at different speeds and go forward and backward and make stitches of different lengths. There are all sorts of wonderful fancy computerized machines that do complicated stitches and embroidery, but none of that is necessary. Ideally, get a sewing savvy friend to help you choose so that you get a decent machine, particularly if you are buying second-hand. I didn't have that sort of assistance at the time I bought my machine, so went with a new one on sale at a local store. I researched it online and made sure it came with a warranty. One good way to find out more about machines is to visit a dedicated shop. Even if you end up purchasing your machine elsewhere, it's a good place to ask questions.
Needles. A new sewing machine will certainly come equipped with at least one new sewing needle. You will soon need more. There are many types available, but to start with we will be concerned with two basic types: a sharp needle for woven fabrics, and a ballpoint for stretchier knit fabrics.
Thread. As time goes on, you will learn to choose thread that is appropriate for each project. To start with, get a cotton-polyester blend: these are easy to find, and cheap to buy. Buy a couple of different colours. For initial practice, you don't want to match your thread to your fabric; in fact, contrasting colours are preferable.
Iron and ironing board. I consider an iron to be an essential tool for sewing. Again, you don't need the fanciest iron out there. Choose one that has several settings (temperatures) and can have water put in it to produce steam. As for ironing boards, pick one that is well padded and fits your space limitations. I use a small tabletop version that works just fine.
Scissors. A decent pair of shears for cutting fabric makes a big difference. When you gain some experience with cutting fabric, you can move to a special rolling cutter, but to start with use scissors. Check fabric or craft stores for good scissors. These will be more expensive than the scissors you have around for cutting paper, but they're worth the investment. Don't use them for anything but fabric.
Practice fabric. The very best thing to start practicing on is a non-stretchy woven fabric. Old cotton (or cotton blend) sheets are ideal.
Stitch ripper. This small device will allow you to remove stitches much more easily than with scissors. This will come in handy both for correcting errors as you sew, and for taking apart existing garments to remake.
And . . . a cloth tape measure, some straight pins, a pin cushion, some extra bobbins (the little plastic or metal reel that holds thread and sits in the sewing machine under the needle) will all prove useful too.
Next Thursday, we'll start going through the basic steps for sewing. If you have any questions, please comment here so I can address them.
