10 Tips to avoid silly mistakes in your sewing

If you are never happy with the outcome of your garments and want a better finish, follow these tips to make the most of your sewing experience - not to mention your fabric and time.
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Thank you for watching. I appreciate each one of you!

[@Penguinandpear]

Hello friends - an extra mid-week video for you! Let us know what's the one thing that improves your sewing above everything else? xx

[@kathygann7632]

Starting!

[@Penguinandpear]

Very good point lol 😂

[@teresahaven9222]

I gain improvement, honestly, by making mistakes and correcting them. Also, I know that watching KZbin videos of experienced people. Even tho I am pretty experienced at crochet, somewhat experienced at needle tatting, and learning sewing for more than repairs and crafts. I need people like you to help me improve!! Thank you!!!!

[@PibbleMom297]

@@teresahaven9222 Good for you! You have the common sense to realize that one of the best way to learn is by making mistakes!

[@billminckler6550]

I LOVED THIS! Sew slowly. Enjoy the process. Slow fashion vs fast fashion. When in doubt, STOP immediately. Chill. Assess. Strategize. In contrast, bulldozing forward when we’re off course ADDS to the dissatisfaction and repair. Practice and mistakes…let’s be kind to ourselves. I love this channel. ❤❤❤

[@sylviamaxwell504]

I never ever have to use a seam ripper..EVER ...lol liar liar pants on fire....have sewn since 7th grade, in the 1960's, now, older than dirt...and every thing you say is true true 👍 have good needles and some hems still need to be done by hand...so take pride in those tiny well spaced stitches😊

[@roslyngraf1737]

Not everyone has your ability from the start.

[@nonstopmom8185]

Funny, biggest take away was sewing on paper. When I was about 13 years old and starting the first of 5 years with the same home ec. teacher, she had us sewing on lined paper the first day. That was 8th grade. By the time I graduated high school, I had the most amazing wardrobe. It was a passion for me and my best friend. We made everything from 2-piece bathing suits to all manner of dresses and suits. We even copied things from fashion magazines. I don't make clothing now but it's interesting to me to try to imagine what a pattern would look like to make some of the beautiful dresses that I see the news casters and weather ladies now wear.

[@Penguinandpear]

This is a greasy reflection! I wish I’d started when young!

[@PibbleMom297]

Another superb video - thank you! It's great for newbies who can use kind encouragement, as well excellent reminders those "ancients" (like me) who've been sewing for many, many years. The best thing about it is pure common sense - you've got that full measure. Many years ago I worked in the computer industry and had to teach new employees how to perform certain tasks. I'd mess with them a little at first saying, "There are 3 EXTREMELY important rules you need to know before beginning", and I'd watch their eyes grow big with concern. Then I'd tell them, "One - you ARE going to make mistakes, some big, some small. Two - get help if you need it and fix them". Then (in a much gentler voice) "Three - Give yourself a break and move on; you're only human and need time to learn. It's NOT the end of the world. Don't be hard on yourself." You could visibly SEE them relax and they often laughed as I gave them a big smile. I had a lot of loyal and happy workers. They didn't worry so much about mistakes and did good work. Your brilliant advice at the beginning of this video is in a similar vein. We need to take our time to learn and relax when sewing. Being hard on ourselves is counter-productive. Being open to learning new ideas and techniques is very sensible, yet we all need to pick the ones that work for us - we're all different. And we all need to work at a speed that's comfortable for us. I could possibly be your grandmother (I'm 72) but I can relate to everything you've said.

[@jenniferp.3688]

My new life quote, “Everyone makes mistakes. Have a seam ripper at hand!” So true!!!! Thank you!

[@darlenem9725]

Oddly enough, when I first started, I was under the impression that if I messed up I was just stuck with it. I would be angry with myself for “ruining it”. Once I made the seam ripper my friend I was so much happier with my garments. I made jeans recently and had to re-do the front pockets 3 times ugh, but they are just right now!

[@Penguinandpear]

That sounds familiar! Ooh congrats on making jeans!

[@tinka4243]

There were so many points that made me laugh and think "Yup, that's me!" but I am getting better and you really help me with that. Thank you.

[@lizzieb6311]

I so love your nuggets of wisdom…I can relate to every single one you mentioned. I’ve learned the hard way to stop sewing rather than “pushing through” and making a mess of things. As a result I’m FINALLY taking pleasure in going slowly and completing a garment I can actually wear in public! You’re a GEM 💎

[@frannygrace2191]

I think my attitude is what improves my sewing. Just like you said--no sewing when tired or grouchy, etc. really not only improves your garment but your overall feeling about sewing--and yourself!

[@sandrahaigh2976]

Seam rippers are a godsend. Since starting sewing again three months ago, I haven't made one project without having to use my seam ripper. Sonetimes i seem to be unpicking more than I'm sewing...but i get there. I know the little imperfections, but others dont see them. Loving all your tips. 💞

[@rebeccaw9656]

All of this!! I’ve got to the stage where I’m spending a lot more money on better quality fabrics and if you do the maths, approximately $75-$100 per garment just for 3m of linen for a dress… I’m not cutting into that fabric until I know the pattern intimately and I’ve worked out the fit for my body with practice makes. I make a rubbish toile with just shoulder and side seams to work out seams, bust darts, shorten or lengthen parts. Then I make a wearable toile with a less precious fabric - these are destined for much needed house-dresses and separates. Then I’ll make it in my good linen, and these are the garments I’m happy to leave the house in😊. But there’s a lot of walking away, lots of “I’ll sleep on it” breaks within the first two toiles, every single time😂 while I work out fit properly, and particular skills properly - problem solving is part of learning. Because at the end of the day, the less handling of the fabric of your final garment, the better the result.

[@Penguinandpear]

I’m going to be doing the same! Good quality is 💵💵💵💵

[@rebeccaw9656]

Just so you know, I’ve made several more toiles for my current make😂, lots of breaks and walking away. But, I look forward to being able to just pick up this adjusted pattern now for quick sews thereafter - yay.

[@patnader9952]

LOL, you hit the nail on the head with each suggestion!! Thank you for reminding us we are human, we can make it any way we want, and there are no sewing police. kudos for your straight forward attitude

[@alicepantfoeder4769]

I’m learning to have a mindset that unpicking seams or changing the bobbin in the middle of a seam is all part of sewing. Enjoy the WHOLE process.

[@paulinemcleggan7585]

Oh boy did I need this video today! I have made the pansy dress x3 for my grandchildren. I made another today using stretch fabric. I was like I know what Im doing. 🙃 I laid the fabric out selvages together and rushed to cut it out. Before I realised what I was doing, I cut out the skirt bit of the pattern without taking account of the grain line. Normally I would pull my hair out- this time I thought ok. Cut the rest out on grain 🤪

[@Penguinandpear]

Yay progress!

[@theresaanndiaz3179]

When I get frustrated with a project, I give it a "time out". I put it somewhere out of sight and go do something else. A week or even a month later, I can look at it with new eyes. It's important to put all the pattern pieces, thread, and fasteners with it. I have been sewing a long time and I learn new things all the time. One thing I want to add about toiles is, once you perfect the fit, use that pattern again. You might change the sleeve or the trimmings. You put all that work into making it fit!

[@Penguinandpear]

For sure. I have plans to create different clothes from that pattern turning gathers into darts etc

[@lorraine9057]

Talk about seam rippers!! I am the Edward Scissorhands of seam rippers. Loved the video, Claire. You are too funny!! It's always a treat to see Fredrick.

[@Penguinandpear]

Lol you’re funny! Love a jd reference! ❤️

[@SewingandCaring]

Today I spent 3 hours hand sewing a pure irish linen bodice on the skirt inside out. On the plus side I remembered to take the knife down on my overlocker before going round a corner which was a win.

[@Penguinandpear]

How does Irish linen sew? I have some in my small stash

[@SewingandCaring]

@@Penguinandpear It's a joy to sew you just got to make sure you pre-shrink and overlock the edges before washing it. The weight of this one was quite heavy so it could only take 1 1/2 width worth of gathers, and I had to do several sets of hand sewing to make sure nothing went sideways or puckered.

[@deborahspooner8046]

All true. Especially- do not sew when your tired, or not in the right mindset.

[@jojomontgomery7119]

So glad you came back to sewing. I appreciate your videos.

[@paulasiefert2059]

I was told that if you don’t have a relationship with your seam ripper, you’re not sewing enough! Also, throw out the old one and replace them often. Sharp is best!

[@Real_g.s.]

When I was in college, I had a work-study job in the costume shop. We were under a serious deadline, as we had a college play coming up, so the costume designer took a blouse home to finish it. Well, yes, he was tired, but only one more sleeve left to put on. He got it done, but when he looked, he had sewn it to the neckline. He finally put it down, and got himself some sleep, but did a lot of seam ripping in the morning to fix his mistake. I felt bad for laughing, but he was laughing about it too. So yes, do NOT sew when you are tired, or can't devote your attention to what you're doing.

[@animallover4955]

YES sew slowly! I have been doing this lately & my sewing is much better, I also enjoy the experience now.🎉

[@lynneprentice4278]

Relate to them all Claire! I now think of my mistakes as learning opportunities and I know if I cock up on a project I’m going to learn from it and think twice before making that mistake again!❤️

[@granjan252]

Wonderful tips! It only took me 60 years to learn all this wisdom.

[@ZeldaSews]

Yup... I have made mistakes trying to sew tired, irritated and just plain not in the mood to sew.😢

[@kat_thefruitbat]

Love your videos, Claire! ❤️🤗 If you’re up to it, at some point I’d really love to see a video about garment construction techniques your sewing pattern instructions don’t always tell you. I’m a beginner, and I recently heard about “stay stitching” and using stabilizer on seams, but I don’t know when/where/or how to use these techniques, and it’s also making me wonder what other “secret” techniques I should know about to help strengthen the construction + longevity of the garments I sew. I also wanted to say thank you for the video where you opened up about your chronic illnesses and shared ideas to help make sewing/other hobbies/activities/work more accessible. ❤ I have type 1 narcolepsy, chronic headaches and migraines, adhd, restless leg syndrome, and Raynaud’s syndrome. As you know, living with chronic illnesses is a never-ending roller coaster, and coping/managing can be especially difficult some days… It really meant a lot that you opened up about your struggles and shared your ideas with the goal of helping others and making them feel understood. Knowing that you’re a fellow sleep warrior + chronic illness warrior makes your videos even more inspiring because it makes me think- if Claire is out there doing, creating, and giving her best effort in life…then I can do the same even if today feels impossible. ❤ Sending lots of love and appreciation! 🤗

[@jbartrug574]

I just finished putting the hem in a circle skirt the right way (after several screw-ups). I watched a lady on Professor Pin Cushion show me how to do it. So glad I stepped away for 2 days and went back. Your suggestions were dead on. It was almost like you know how I sew. 😂 Thanks again for your videos.

[@teresahaven9222]

Oh, gosh! So many things! A couple of things, years ago i went to a laundry/dry cleaners/alterations place for some advice on an alteration i wanted to do on a dress. She had at least 10 seam rippers laying all around. They werent just for taking out the existing seams in order to alter them but also for when the sewing line wasnt exactly right. Also, if i have a completely straight seam, i might go full blast! So far, knock on wood, those seams have always turned out right. As far as making mistakes in what you are making.....when i crocheted my oldest grandsons first afghan, I noticed i had made a mistake back close to the beginning. Since i was nearly done i REALLY didn't want to tear out the entire thing and start over so i held it up, close and far, at all different angles, to see how noticeable it would be to the average person. I realized nobody but me and my sister would ever know lol!

[@marywagner5088]

I love your linen top! The colors and pattern are beautiful, but most importantly, you look Fabulous in it!

[@samjones9465]

I always do a wearable toile, that way I get a "at home or garden top/dress" and don't waste my nice clothes lol

[@tishawright2780]

Thanks for a great video. I get upset with myself because I've been sewing for over 20 years but I feel like a beginner at times because I'm not where I think I should be in this journey. A lot of simple things still don't come out correctly. Thanks again

[@Penguinandpear]

It sounds like you’re being hard on yourself ❤️

[@heathernesbitt9026]

I just love your tips, thanks for sharing 🙏😍

[@terripinan1876]

I am recent subscriber to your channel, and am loving it. Back to sewing after about 25 or more years of no sewing, so a whole new ball game to me

[@emilyackertrutten268]

This video was a good reminder of my rules for myself, when I used to sew. Just started again this week after 25 yrs away. I really wish I had known then about doing a mock up - that was a revelation. (I made my prom dress in high school, and ended up having to add in 2 extra panels because the bodice was too small for me. Could have been avoided if I had known about doing a toile. Still not sure what went wrong, but I suspect that Vogue patterns were just sized on the small side).

[@jandimarco3113]

You’re so right Claire about so many things. Reading the instruction sheet is something we tend to overlook when experienced, but it’s worth it as errors can be noticed at that stage. I made a New Look pattern recently where the instructions were correct but the tissue pattern piece cutting instructions were wrong. Like 4 cuff pieces needed to be cut, but the tissue said to cut only two. No biggie really but to a new sewist this would be a head scratcher.

[@knotsandneedlescrafts]

Please stop calling me out 😅😅😅 just started watching your channel, love it.

[@trudyberry3267]

Great advice, all the tips are very helpful, tried and true and will definitely benefit all sewists. Thank you.❤

[@paulasalter1041]

Good points were made. Thanks. I'm the opposite and generally make a wearable toille.

[@Penguinandpear]

That’s good to hear!

[@KlingonPrincess]

"Lol, okay Claire" pop up made me laugh. I'm sure we all hope the same. I think my biggest mistake is picking fabrics that i love but aren't really what look good on me. I'm really comfortable in long jersey skirts and tops but love to sew woven clothing. I'm currently working on a sloper for tops - full bust fitting, sway back adjustment, darts, etc. trying to avoid ill fitting garments. It might be easier to loose a ton of weight...

[@Penguinandpear]

Lol I’m the opposite- I love to sew jersey but only have woven in my stash. So I’m learning to love it. Ooh I need to do that! Eak sounds hard!

[@aimee-made]

This is kind of "niche," but a good lesson for me: do not sew on facings until you are happy with the fit. I am making a really cute top that's going along great - but I sewed a facing on (and understitched it - when I flub up, I really do it 100%!), THEN tried it on, and I need to make some adjustments. I know the adjustments I need to make - it just means I'll be wrestling even more with the seam ripper than necessary. This was the result of trying to sew too fast - try to get just a LITTLE more done before I need to leave for work. Rats!

[@kimtilley7936]

Hi Claire, such wonderful advice, thank you for sharing. Yep, seam ripper is by my side always, used so, so often, and KZbin my best tutor. Slow sewing is most definitely the way to sew. And yes, I embrace the fails, they are my learnings. Happy Sewing 😊

[@jeffersonmorant]

That’s so thoughtful of you Kim, Thanks for your positive review,How are you and how’s the weather over there?

[@miriamgladen9615]

For training how to sew straight seams I bought a jellyroll and tried sewing together the stripes lengthwise. The new format makes a nice skirt. Or pillow or whatever.

[@SewNiciVee]

Another great video. I really relate to the slow sewing part, when I first started I really thought I would never be any good at this sewing thing, because everyone seemed to sew fast and make amazing things. Thankfully I had a word with myself, sewed at my pace and have started producing things I'm happy with. Also I always search out a youtuber who has made the garment..youtube is my friend 😊

[@smhshowmehow]

Omg thank you! These are great tips, I just started but I needed to hear all of it!!! Especially the tip to slow down, no need to rush!!!!! It's not a race. 🙌🏽💕

[@kathycasey9521]

Claire, I like your videos because you talk about things that no one else says. “When your sewing machine starts making noises, STOP SEWING.” LOL… Common sense things that most of us relate to no matter how long we have been sewing, and yet we keep on doing in the hopes that bad things won’t happen this time! Read the instructions. Practice the new technique on scraps BEFORE you try it on your garment. If you are feeling stressed, STOP SEWING. I’m still chuckling because I tend to do all these things and need to stop. Thanks for taking the time to point this out to us.

[@victoriahannah1633]

Make friends with your seam ripper. Don’t beat yourself up over those sewing boo boos. I’m taking one of those sewing breaks tomorrow. I have a lot I want to make but I need a day out of the sewing room and my house. Actually going to go to thrift store to get sheets for a toile(muslin) and maybe to fabric store. One of things I do before I sew something is I go over the instructions a few times. Then when I go to actually start it it all just seems easier & goes smoother for the most part. Most of the time if I do mess something up there is usually a way I can fix it . I also tell myself so it took a month to finish one garment so at the end of the year you’ll have 12 garments.

[@rebeccaconner7311]

Really made me take a pause and think especially when you talked on everything doesn’t have to be a rush

[@helenhart4778]

you are fantastic, love that you can share your mistakes with us because we all make them. I have to laugh at myself because everything you are saying i have done it too. Stay well

[@Penguinandpear]

Hehe glad to entertain!

[@cakevictim]

LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! I just found you last weekend and I have been binging them all! 💜 These are great suggestions! When I started sewing, I never wanted to spend the time or use the fabric to make a toile, but you are RIGHT, it’s going to be worth the money and the practice time. Every time. I would also add, check out your machine and dust it, clean it, and oil it (if yours takes oil) before you start to sew. That always saves me time by catching a nearly empty bobbin, or dust around the bobbin case that’s going to cause a jam.

[@queenwere1]

I found her yesterday and have binged like 15 so far 😂 😂 😂

[@qormi1000]

Enjoyable video as always Claire. I'm always learning from you. Thank you. xxx

[@melanie0810]

Bedankt

[@Kakkydidit]

I started making a toile or muslin of a top but finished it so that I can wear it. It doesn't look great, but I learned a lot. The first is that YES, I really need to use a fabric for my mock-up of a similar weight to the pattern designers' suggestions. The second thing I've learned is to measure pattern pieces to help figure out where I might have fit issues. I sewed a lot when I was young because it was cheaper. Now I'm sewing again in my older age and I'm doing it because I want to construct things and enjoy the process. I can baste things and unpick mistakes, practice even handstitching.

[@christinesaunders4638]

Love you and your content, Clare!

[@nadialetourneau4490]

Oups, I need to make more toile… Thanks to share!

[@jeffersonmorant]

Lol, That’s so thoughtful of you Nadia, Thanks for your positive review,How are you and how’s the weather over there?

[@koolkatss4854]

Thanks Claire. I really love your videos and appreciate your efforts in creating and sharing them with us.🌸. This is the first time I’ve ever purchased a Super Thanks. I couldn’t figure out how to change the $ amount from the default figure. I’m using an iPad so maybe I’m not able to modify the amount on this device. If anyone knows how to do this I would appreciate your helpful comment. Thank you.

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you. I think it gives different amounts and you click on the amount you want to pay?

[@lynnevincenttowear8865]

40 year professional here, and I keep my ripper right at hand with my snips(and unfortunately I do use it daily)

[@theresapowell4226]

I am so very glad I have you to sew along with:) you increase my knowledge and understanding and you are so very genuine. Thank you for your time and sharing

[@helenhall3705]

I watched your serger video yesterday and today I needed to undo a seam! Thank you. Your tip there saved me lots of frustration

[@jhgelliott]

I love your videos! ❤

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you so much!!

[@traciesperrin7548]

Great video. I am new to sewing and found your tips useful. Thank you.

[@ClaireMurray1]

I just wanted to say that your hair looks lovely today. I love this colour and style on you. 🥰

[@epeaches7677]

Hello I love your videos. I have about 10 stitch rippers and have been sewing for 50 years

[@lolawall3561]

What a great video! I will make5 a twall and see how it works out. Thanks for all you practical suggestions. Happy Sewing!

[@lorettatollefson7010]

I tend to make wearable toiles. If they're really awful, I can at least use them for cleaning and painting projects. :)

[@Penguinandpear]

Good point!

[@SewMyTime]

Great summary. Agree with every point. I have learned so much from Marie whose channel is My Bucolic Life. So many helpful techniques and tips in a very relaxing way. Also Sarah of Sewing Therapy- such restful sewalongs. I have benefitted from having a sewing room I can walk away from when tired and the pick up exactly where I left off. I am lucky.

[@robynlaszlo6128]

How true on every account research and investigate and practice 😊

[@catherineb6565]

Congrats on hitting 21k subscribers Claire! I'm betting you crack at least 30k by year end 😁

[@jennyallan8794]

Thank you Claire , words of wisdom, ❤ why do we beat our selves up because its ' not ' perfect 😫 xx

[@Fisklingur]

Last night I was annoyed with myself because I cut out two right hand sleeves, decided to try to set it in anyway as it's a gathered sleeve and i should test to see if it would be okay, and then promptly sewed the sleeve in upside down 😂

[@Penguinandpear]

Lol 🙃

[@teresahaven9222]

I almost forgot. I was trying to make a zipper for a sleep bag for my youngest grandson. The zipper pull going on the zipper going the normal way went on quick and easy. Then i started to try to get the pull on the end i was putting it on upside down. Well. I tried for probably an hour. Got so frustrated i threw it across the room and did something else. When i came back in my bedroom, picked it upt, the pull slid right on!!!!

[@suek7086]

I have a permanent seam ripper attached to my hand.

[@Penguinandpear]

I should get a lanyard for mine lol 😂

[@Louise-xr5ok]

Today it took me nearly three hours to bind a neck in bias binding, then the penny dropped, is it wonky, yes , but I still did it . I am struggling with fit as have no idea how to deviate from the pattern

[@Penguinandpear]

Which areas are you struggling to fit?

[@Louise-xr5ok]

@@Penguinandpear mainly the bust darts and the waist. I have a big top and stomach and small waist so I have to size up to accommodate

[@helenlane5664]

I'm making a top and the amount of times I have to unpick but it's the 1st time l made this pattern, I will make it again , hopefully it will be tuns better . I haven't done shirring for a while so it's been good to relearn techniques l haven't done for ages.

[@jeffersonmorant]

That’s so thoughtful of you Helen, Thanks for your positive review,How are you and how’s the weather over there?

[@marywright9446]

Hi there, one idea is to have your stitch, not too small! Much easier to unpick without catching the fabric.

[@rhonddalesley]

Some fabric needs a shorter stitch length though or the finished seam will be gappy. I’d suggest that basting either by hand or with the longest stitch length your machine has is the way to go if you’re not 100% sure or you’re making a toile, it’s inevitable that we’ll make mistakes at some time or other regardless of how much we try to avoid them and have no option but to unpick, for those times a magnifying glass will be your best friend and trust me I know!

[@kobaltkween]

Question for you as someone avoiding clutter. What do you do with practice scraps and toiles?

[@Penguinandpear]

Keep watching I’ll do videos on that at some point.

[@kobaltkween]

@@Penguinandpear Oooo! I can't wait! I know it's stupid, but not knowing what to do with the scraps and bits I've generated from just trying stuff has kinda frozen me.

[@LindaH69]

Disheartening when a pattern calls it a One hour garment and it takes me 3 days. I figure the phrase One hour just means easy and not too many pieces to cut out.

[@rtblade4]

I have been sewing for a couple years now and I am slow and try to do everything perfectly. All I see are the mistakes.

[@Penguinandpear]

I am like that too most of the time but we have to try to look past that.

[@victoriaconstantine-cort3091]

xXx👍👍👍

[@Yahoo1339]

Do sewers find a mannequin can help when sewing?

[@Penguinandpear]

Only if you want to drape fabric to design your own patterns - in my experience

[@liltexmama]

I never use a seam ripper......... I use an xacto knife

[@Penguinandpear]

The point or action is the same

[@liltexmama]

Sorry i was being tongue in cheek making fun of people that act like they never make mistakes.

[@Noreenlee1]

The saying is that you can't see the FOREST for the trees. In other words, no one is looking that closely except you. :)

[@eduardachi2571]

i am loving your content you look good wow your place looks amazing

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you so much 🤗