Sewing

Have you decided to take up sewing? Are you getting started and not sure how to go about it? This article is for you! In the lines below, I’m going to share 5 step-by-step tips to help you get off to a great start in this wonderful adventure.

1. Your mindset: because it all starts in your head

Most girls who start a blog and make designer-worthy outfits taught themselves by learning on the job, project after project. In other words, super seamstresses weren’t made in a day—and that’s the idea you need to keep in mind when you’re starting out. You’ll begin by sewing very simple clothes or accessories, and even with these simple projects you’ll make mistakes. The upside is that you gain experience by making mistakes, and as the saying goes: “Practice makes perfect.”

2. Find your sewing machine!

One fun step in this adventure is getting your first sewing machine. The advice I always give is not to go straight for a top-of-the-line machine when you’re just starting out. After all, you don’t yet know whether sewing is something you’ll like a little, a lot, or madly. That’s why I recommend choosing, if possible, an entry-level electronic machine that does a straight stitch, a zigzag stitch, and buttonholes (and ideally an overcast stitch for finishing). These are the stitches you’ll use most. Go for a second-hand sewing machine only if you’re sure it’s been properly maintained. The machines I’ve bought for myself or for friends were purchased on Cdiscount, which has the advantage of listing models from several sellers. You can also go to Darty or a specialist shop to see the models they have on display.

The arrival of your sewing machine will be a big moment. Don’t worry if you suddenly feel overwhelmed by fear or stressed out. Starting up a machine you don’t know can be intimidating, but it’s absolutely manageable. It will probably come with a manual, a CD, or a link to find the start-up guide online. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if this step feels too daunting.

3. The gear

While you’re waiting for your sewing machine to arrive, let’s take a trip to a specialist haberdashery to pick up some sewing supplies. If you live in Paris, I share a few addresses in the FAQ section on the homepage.

Here’s your shopping list to get started →

4. Choosing fabrics

In general, it’s recommended not to start out with fabrics that cost an arm and a leg. When you take up sewing—like any activity—you’ll make mistakes. It would be a shame to ruin a fabric you paid a lot for
 So yes, that’s the rule in principle. But honestly: if you want to treat yourself, go for it! After all, you only live once (but open your chakras wide before cutting the fabric, OK?!)

5. Let the fun begin!

Now that you have your supplies, your fabric, and with a bit of luck your machine has arrived, it’s time to get started. We’ll begin in two phases:

  • Get familiar with your sewing machine: I recommend starting with very simple projects based on online tutorials, like a tote bag. The goal here is to learn how to handle your machine. Test straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and, if you’d like, decorative stitches.
  • Learn to sew with independent sewing patterns: Patterns are templates you buy on paper or as a PDF. Trace your size using pattern paper, and use it as a guide to cut your fabric. I recommend starting with paper patterns when you’re a beginner.

There you go—you know everything now.

To wrap up, if I had to give you just one tip to make your sewing projects a success, it would be this: press with an iron after every seam you sew. It helps the pattern pieces and thread become one, and it will give your project a clean finish. And because I can’t bring myself to let you go without this last tip: trim every loose thread flush with the fabric using thread snips (even the Made in China ones cut thread well, so
!).
I hope you found this article helpful. Have even the slightest doubt? Don’t hesitate to let me know.