12 MORE MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN LEARNING TO SEW!

[@lynnbowman8725]

I bought a cheap machine to make masks and crafts. I have never been interested in sewing clothing. UNTIL I SAW YOUR DESIGNS!!! Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents with the rest of us.

[@diahannayer1713]

I bought ALL the fabric when I joined the Sew It Academy. Haven't used 1/4 of it. I felt I had to have it. Most of it is too advanced for my skills right now. My thinking was, I'll be able to use it soon, because I'll be as good as Mimi in 3 months. Yeah, that didn't happen but I'm enjoying learning the techniques of sewing, pattern drafting and fitting more than the sewing. 😁 Thanks Mimi G

[@chauntem.8841]

My kids acted that way when I started the trail class & they freaked me out. Everytime we went to the store they'd ask for fabric or see a shirt they'd like and swear I can make it after a few minor sewing projects. They'd even buy me fabric for varied holidays thinking I'd use it instantly. I love the thought but again it freaked me out lol 🤦🏽‍♀️😍🤦🏽‍♀️

[@feliciajones3394]

Yes I lost my mind to buying fabric

[@feliciajones3394]

Yes I lost my mind buying fabric to and I really don't like to sew

[@barbaramack4375]

Mimi, as an older person, I recall that some pattern layouts had the pieces further apart than they are today. I learned many years ago to place my pieces closer and to strange them differently even if the pattern had them configured in a specific way. I've recently discovered that the pattern companies are too more conscious of saving yardage as well so that reducing yardage as I used to do years ago (and I'm just about to start up again after a many-years forced hiatus) is no longer safe to do. Also, I think instead of buying three yards of fabric - for example if you want some left over - that it would be wiser to buy at least two yards extra because you can do much more with the two than the one.

[@drhelenloney1426]

Don’t cut your original pattern tissue, you’ll regret it. Trace your pieces out, save the originals because your first size will be wrong.

[@Happine5s]

Helen Loney omg yes haha this is real life 😂

[@katelinparks9536]

I shouldve learned this lesson long time ago. Smh I've messed up so many patterns

[@ray83baby]

So true. Learned the hard way

[@toptenworldtravel]

I don't have time for that!

[@nasayi]

Hahahahaha! The first real, not a “basic” garment I sewed without being in class was the wrong size. It was view A McCalls M7945. I finished it, was super proud and if I ever lose 40 pounds it may fit. 🤣🤣🤣

[@tracylga]

Great tips. I’ve been sewing for more that 40 years, but I’ve been following you since you just had the blog. I’m so glad you mentioned about pattern placement on the fabric, because in many of your earlier videos you would just lay the pattern pieces down and cut and I used to cringe. Many new sewers won’t follow the cutting guide and then complain when the run out of fabric. I was guilty of not buying enough to account for my alterations, like lengthening all the pattern pieces for my 6’ frame. I too am a fabric hoarder. I have referred so many people to SIA. Keep up the great work!

[@debe8890]

OMG, reading all the steps of the pattern instructions ahead of time. I did this the not too long ago and got myself confused and discouraged, so I totally understand what you are saying. And let me tell you that I have been sewing for 55 years, learned on commercial patterns and I often read ahead. This added to my discouragement because I'm not a newbie, it should all make sense, right! This was a fly in a Indie pattern, to things new for me. I am still learning and growing. I stopped, took a big breath, started from the beginning and took it step by step. It all became clear and wasn't a problem. Thanks Mimi for all the tips.

[@Durfeanor13]

Mimi, thank you, thank you, thank you. Your enthusiasm, your joy in sewing has inspired me to start sewing again after 15 years. I used to sew all the time, my mum taught me to sew when I was 11 and she was taught by her best friend's dad who was a tailor back in 1920s London, sitting cross-legged on the kitchen table when she went to visit her friend after school. I even made my wedding dress but then I lost confidence in myself, how I looked and nothing I made was nice - so I thought. So, here I am, 62 years old and just about to get out my sewing machine again :)

[@margiecook6379]

Thanks for the common sense. I am helping my granddaughters learn to sew . Your tips are a great reminder of what I have forgotten I had to learn . It seems like I was born with needle and thread in my hand and knowing how to sew. My grandmother taught me. I read everything I could get my hands on about sewing. I love to sew but I don't like pattern making. I had rather adjust a pattern to fit than make one to measure. I am always learning. Thanks again for you teaching and your great patterns.

[@melissajantzi9581]

Not reading ahead is great advice. I am a quilter, not a sewer...yet, however, I am also a crocheter. The best advice given to me was not to read the crochet patterns as a whole, but read a line and crochet that. I used look at longer patterns and convince myself it was too difficult, when actually it wasn’t. Now, I can handle most projects.

[@krosettedesigns]

You should have added to avoid those “no sew” videos... you can’t use glue to make clothes...

[@dailydedication2663]

Omg 🤣😆that’s crazy😄

[@rozreed4759]

Oh my goodness, thank you soooo much for this video!!! I just realized I have done some of these issues. I appreciate you. What a wake up sewing reality. Every time I go to Philly I visit Jomar because the Fabric’s price is inexpensive & the quality of the fabric is very good. I purchased some tweed material that was very pretty & I paired $16.00 for 8 yards. They also had material from Mood. I remember that store from watching Project Runway. But now I will take what you mentioned into consideration and slow down. 🧵✂️📏🧷

[@raesmith8751]

great info and I'm guilty of a few of these and have learned to slow down. I also have figured out to stick with the patterns I love and manipulate some.

[@lynetterene]

Definitely a class you should consider taking if you are on the fence.....never ever thought I would be drafting my own pattern 📏📐✂️

[@mspishposh]

All of these tips really makes a drastic difference in quality for sure. Thanks for sharing.

[@HomeCentsWithNell]

This is all great advice for someone like me. I've mastered a few simple things, but still need lots of help!

[@rosac8168]

Willy Nilly on fabric that is so me...omg! Thank you Mimi

[@Valandaimee]

Thank you for your videos , I am a complete beginner and I am enjoying your videos

[@carmelbronze9946]

Thx for the tips. Does anyone out there watch the old classic black and white films, some in color. They have some of the most beautiful vintage clothing and some great sewing ideas.

[@EmorettaRobinson]

I do. And I agree with you. The clothes were so beautiful in those movies

[@carmelbronze9946]

@@EmorettaRobinson type in Marlene Detritch fashion, she was and still is to me, the fashion Icon of all.

[@EmorettaRobinson]

@@carmelbronze9946 I know of that actress she was beautiful and also well dressed. So was Lana Turner, Ava Gardner, Grace Kelly and Dorothy Dandridge.

[@NamelessGrace]

I am obsessed with I Love Lucy and completely agree. The ladies back then were so fashionable.

[@carmelbronze9946]

@@NamelessGrace me too, I've been watching closely the clothes Lucy and Ethel would wear. Even their shoes were super cute and those beautiful swing coat. Good eye girl!!!

[@Jin04115]

Gurl I bought some chiffon and knit 😳😳😳😳 2 weeks in starting to sew. They will have to wait until I can sew a straight line. I got smart and bought muslin. Imma use that AFTER my lines improve. Thank you for the tips.

[@nicolekimbrough3974]

So excited I signed up for the class and purchased me the Brother CS6000i because I wanted to make sure I was able to follow along and take in as much as possible, I’m excited

[@michelvale6168]

Hi Nicole, How did you find the course so far? I would like to join too... I have done a lot of research and I think she's really good. ☺

[@nicolekimbrough3974]

@@michelvale6168 I learned so much. I loved the curriculum and she walks you thru the process. You can always replay just in case you didn't catch something. I was able to create patterns for my everyday wear. To sum it up, it's worth every dime .

[@michelvale6168]

@@nicolekimbrough3974🙏🏾 Thank you very much for this nice and positive feedback. I will definitely join.

[@nicolekimbrough3974]

@@michelvale6168 ☺️

[@iamoldja7061]

I began sewing almost two years ago and just listened to both of your mistakes to avoid videos... I have to confess, some of the "mistakes" you talk about are exactly what I love about sewing. I do NOT recommend anyone do it my way. An overly expensive sewing machine is what motivated me keep at it. I paid $1000 for this frustration, I WILL FIGURE IT OUT!!! I started with hard to work with fabrics, when I final made a simple cotton shirt... OMG cotton is soooo easy to work with, no wonder your suppose to start with cotton. I almost never buy fabric for a pattern, I buy fabric because it is beautiful and inspires me. Sometimes it takes a while to decide what to do with a particularly beautiful fabric. I buy most of my fabric at a discount fabric store. Rarely do I pay more then $8 or $10 for a yard usually less then $5 per yard. It is still hard to get out of the store for under $50. The day I found a fabric online for $80 per yard I almost suffered an embarrassment and soiled myself. I have not yet made anything from a commercial pattern, start to finish. I use commercial patterns for the shapes of various pieces. But my projects are always heavily modified and personalized. Most of what I make is scaled 1/2 or 1/3 size. No one will ever wear my garments. The joy is in the process, not the result.

[@deloresjackson7464]

Great Video! Love how you point out some specific tips. Thanks Mimi. Well said.

[@kimf.5409]

Thank you for posting! I'm a newbie and needed this post.

[@nldias5234]

Such helpful info Mimi, thank you for sharing again with us. I enjoy watching your videos, always appreciated.

[@barkingsheep5224]

I already do at least one of these! Especially the buying too much fabric. I just like to collect textile samples. 🥰 Ive sewn a draw string tote bag, I'm about to sew a lace trimmed apron, time for me to join the academy and learn to sew a real garment! 😄

[@ladytkeepinit1002]

So excited to learn how to sew on my new baby lock. Just got it - still in the box! :-) I am brand new to sewing and must say that I am so appreciative that you take time to explain tips/tutorials to new sewers. You are the first person I actually UNDERSTAND and TRUST. Everyone is not as good of a teacher as they think but you Mimi G are the real deal to me. You are absolutely AWESOME. I sincerely thank you for all that you do. Many blessings to you! Again...Thank you!! #newsewer #teammimigstyle

[@valkyriesardo278]

Note for beginners. Fabric is sold in a variety of standard widths. 45 inches wide is common. Your pattern envelope will list recommended yardage for each width of fabric. When selecting fabric, check the label for its width or measure it before purchase. The pattern may indicate you need 5 yards of 45 inch wide fabric, but only 3 yards if your fabric is 60 inches wide. Don't be shy about asking the clerk to help if you are confused. If you know in advance you will need to add length to a pant leg or want to add a pocket, it may be wise to purchase a little more than the recommended fabric. It is a judgment call you will improve at overtime.

[@profitcompass]

Thank you for these great tips. I am a week shy of my one month anniversary in the sew it academy. Loving the entire process. This video has given me an extra boost of encouragement.

[@chinonsovictor6531]

This is so true! I just started sewing as a total beginner and somehow I figured out it's the seam-guide that matters. 😁

[@blueskymindfulness1988]

Love your videos! I am returning to sewing after a long hiatus.

[@denisebernidino2561]

wonderful video so tru about the speed, thank you

[@kathleenturowski1631]

Hi Mimi. I can not wait to join life is crazy at the moment hubby is sick. But as I told Norris, whom I adore !! ( I am happily married to a Police Lieutenant in my city and we are both almost 61 years old) Norris was so kind he said forget about age and come learn to sew!!! I’ll be joining shortly!! Thank you mimi

[@lizurquhart4105]

Thank you so much about the difference between clothing and pattern size. I was about to cut out my first pattern in the wrong size! Because I wasn’t paying attention to the pattern instructions. Thank you Mimi.

[@arteisiacalvin6286]

You're such a delight to listen to i wish i could meet you. Thanks great tips💜

[@gladysscott4313]

Thank you very informative. I am teaching myself and with your help I am learning a lot. Have a blessed day .

[@wandaacevedo6777]

THANK YOU MIMI! I am enrolling in your academy this week! Can't wait. :)

[@yangelthomas]

Thanks for sharing MimiG! I'm still learning and enjoying Sew it Academy! 🤗👏🏽👍🏼

[@daliamermelstein1328]

I really appreciate the not reading ahead advice!

[@glenn2595]

Staring at your needle you can also use the car analogy, you don't drive staring at the hood of the car, you look down the road where you are going. Same for skiing you don't focus on the tips of your skis. Thanks for the tips. (Yes I would stare at my needle when I started sewing, and would really veer off the fabric.)

[@Liguorienne]

Hi, you have make me laugh so much, because everything you say, all beginners do it, even if your family are great great sewers . 😂 Like my family. It’s like you just don’t care because you say to your self, nah it look so easy, i can do it like them !. Hahahahahaha But no, that’s really a mistake 😂 I saw my family sew all my life and i’m 51 know, i began really to love sewing 3 years ago. I have the most talented teacher in the world, my mom and grandpa, they did clothes OMG so gorgeous. But i had to learn the basics even if i knew what to do, my hands and brain didn’t. So i got frustrated because i have to learned and accept that sewing take patient and time. But .. when you got it right, the felling inside is so intense that maybe you will cry like i did, and be so proud of your self to show everyone what YOU WEAR IS YOURS 💞 You have gave give a great tips Miss. 😊 I believe that many people will enjoy your video. Sofie. 🌹

[@shareejas2924]

You have such a beautiful personality. Thank you lady! I felt like you were talking directly to me lol.

[@ChelleDonaldLLC]

Thank you for this insightful video Mimi G my biggest mistake that I've made has to be buying all that fabric and I never make nothing out of it. This video truly is helping me right now ❤️

[@777VIBRANT]

Thank you for your videos✨💜🙏🏾

[@Jensdroidx72]

These tips make sooo much sense..do you have steps on 'cleaning the machine' I have a machine but I only use it 2 to 3 x's a year. And I had a lot of lint in the feed dogs.

[@cathyferron3088]

I see you on PIX TV this morning and I wash two videos I just love the videos the things you talk about is so true

[@MzDee-qn7np]

Great information. I stopped sewing due to buying too much fabric and MiMi G patterns!!!. Thanks for the information. You're a blessing!!!

[@taxdox]

Material is like CRACK, Pookie gotta have it 😂

[@sophieclinnick95]

Thanks for the tips!! Here’s one I’ve learnt...don’t start learning to sew when you have a toddler...not going to happen 😅 I started with a loose dress that I can just pull over. Helped with my confidence and loved the process

[@annagideon874]

Thank you for the tips, always resourceful.

[@screeningmimi]

THANK YOU Mimi G! I have seen so many of those KZbin trace-your-fav pants where they use the same piece for front and back (What the?) - and I haven't been able to make a pair without a pattern UNTIL I found your video! Yours is the most sensible, easy to follow, and I don't know how I missed you all this time! :-)

[@selormenuameh6543]

Mimi which garments would you recommend newbies to make

[@cmycamellroze8218]

Mimi, Thx for sharing your sewing wisdom/ I even learn smart suggestions from the comments. May I suggest that you show an example when u are describing items, especially like details when using n constructing a pattern. Apart from this, "Thank u for your inspiration----n much 'congrads!! U look fabulous!!

[@foxxybrown291]

For the price of 2 coffees a month I couldn’t live without Sew It Academy, even after sewing for 6yrs. There’s things I thought I learned from KZbinrs but in the end will always double check on S.I.A. I thought I knew how to do collars 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I spend many a sewing project with Mimi in the background 😉 xx

[@Jwookie5]

Ty so much for your videos. Really thinking about going through your course because I’ve got projects in my head and fabric and for some reason I’m just stuck. And haven’t begun. Also I’ve never made clothes! Patterns are a new world. Ty so much for sharing all you do.

[@djtblizzle]

Great info. May I suggest that you do a video on sewing terminology? Things that experienced sewists take for granted can read or sound like a foreign language to us newbies. Stay stitching, ease, basting, and sharps are just a few that I had to look up and figure out on my own. Just a thought! 😊

[@starmoss606]

Mimi!!! Why you calling me out!! Lol, I did that same mistakes with the pants pattern front and back situation.

[@oracleofthemosthigh613]

I figured that out b4 I even tryed to make pants so I just made pajamas. 😜😘😜😘😜😘😜

[@tracy-annsmalling-bell8372]

Mimi I just cant stop buying fabrics it's an addiction.

[@tracy-annsmalling-bell8372]

Mimi I'm a student of sewitacdemies and I made my scrubs 3 weeks ago and wore it to work. My boss likes it so much she want me to make some for the other workers in the same fabric but my problem is I used broadcloth. They want a stretchy fabric I dont know a lot about fabrics yet could you please assist me thank you.

[@rirhandzudiale3383]

There's a lesson on working with stretch fabric. And an introduction to the types of stretch. Can't remember the lesson number but it's before the leggings one

[@stephanies870]

Love the tips and knowledge that others have frustrations. Feel like I need to signup.

[@Shylala3]

You are amazing thank you for all your inspiration and knowledge you share with us ❤️

[@baldnproud]

Yeah sometime we don’t have common sense with sewing, like you to tell you what type of fabric, but if you’re not really familiar with the fabric, you can get a little lost, and I’m talking about myself, I’m reading the back of the envelope of the pattern, I’m still kind of having a hard time determining my size because I could be big at the top another size at the bottom and another side somewhere else, That’s why am watching your videos.

[@TheDejelo]

I'm literally just starting out. So glad I've found your channel.

[@mikelamarguerite3170]

Are the lessons online? Am really interested in learning more.

[@silverfish3856]

Great advice ❤❤

[@frenchpizza9725]

Be safe Family 💙 ❤️. Love love love your Soul. Blessings to Families

[@Happine5s]

Hey Mimi I love your channel! Do you explain tailoring or altering clothes you already have in your Sew it Academy?? I want to learn how to mend and fit clothes properly. Xx

[@nicoleguise6936]

So do I!! Because my waistline and hips fluctuate from summer to winter months, I may need to take in or let out a seam or waistband.

[@lindagraff2484]

Awesome advice, thank you again.

[@swanteal2355]

Thanks Mimi, your great 😊 I read the pattern first, than I think I know everything. When it comes to making the dress, it goes all wrong. Specially the arms and burst area, it's just tight. 👗👚👗🌻🌼 It's fun sewing.

[@christinablock4282]

Thank you 😊

[@Jillybean620]

Very helpful. Can't wait till I get to the demystifying patterns lesson in Sew It Academy. I've already learned a ton and looking forward to tons more.

[@lovinyaya006]

I'm dying right now. Don't judge me but I swear with the exception of a few,(like 2) you are talking about me. I'm laughing in tears right now. Thanks for the info. It is so helpful for me. Vogue.... that jacket almost ended my life.🤯 You are amazing.

[@vickithompson1840]

Great advice and tips, thank you 😊😊😊

[@wendypiotrowski6579]

hi Mimi I was wondering if you can make a video for the facemask with the pocket to put filters in thank you so much I love your videos.

[@cathyvitale3670]

Great tips! Off topic.....you have the cutest haircut!

[@mrs.diannalynn1383]

its late at night im tired and ready for bed but your face and sweet smile is just so adorable i had to stop by and watch you. wonderful video sweet child. goodnight my dear. your so wonderful. keep sewing and teaching the way you do. love granny d 💗👵

[@shawandabrewer3801]

Great information

[@doobieddooo]

I’ve taken classes at my local sewing shop and they’ve been lovely. I’ve gained much more confidence in sewing. But I’ve fallen into the trap of buying a lot of fabric bc they’re pretty with no project in mind. I’ll def check out the Sew It Academy. Bc I need structure. Your tips are always helpful and I’m looking forward to make something I actually want to wear.

[@Sodany21]

Hi Mimi Thank you for your video. Happy to find you. I have been scared that the needle would break and get to my eyes or face. Does it happen from your experience? Do I need to wear protection ? Thanks

[@mamasaidsew4843]

I am guilty of bragging that I'm not someone who buys lots of fabrics just because. What I do is buy lots of fabric that I love. Ex I love making trousers for my sons lately, so I've been buying wool like crazy with trousers and waistcoats in mind (end of the season sales are not helping me right now). It just occurred to me that I'm just as guilty of hoarding as someone who buys lots of different fabrics with nothing special in mind to make with it.

[@edakalay]

Thank you.

[@ReallyRelle]

These tips are sooo helpful! I almost went rogue at Joann’s last week...lol. But I stopped myself.

[@letty4558]

Love the video, I am guilty of a few of these.

[@Malissa7]

Great tips Mimi!

[@PinkQueen78]

This video is everything.... I was on my way to getting all the fabric out the store, all I knew is I want to make a pullover, cargo pants, skirt, leather tshirt, I was heading towards damage control... 🙏🏽 than you.

[@doloresw]

I so have been struggling with the foot peddle. I dont have a slow speed and so wished I had it but some times getting the right pressure to make it be slow is hell!

[@snickerdoodle212]

I struggle with measuring myself and making sure the garment fits. I'm definitely going to sign up for your class because of this. I feel KZbin University really can not help me with this aspect of sewing. Quick question, do I really need a dress form? And if so, does your class teach us how to pad the dressform so that it replicates my measurements? I also just want to tailor my clothes to my body so that it fits me well.

[@lexisguerrero5597]

Hello! I would love to see how to learn how to add your label tag to a piece of clothing and maybe taking off a tag that’s on already. Thank you

[@cynthiam8385]

Very informative video. Keep bringing them!

[@valkyriesardo278]

For more experienced sewers. You don't always need the quantity of fabric as recommended by the pattern. Nor do you always need to follow the recommended pattern layout. Use your puzzle making skills. Your heart may be set on a luxury fabric with an astronomical cost per yard. Layout your pattern at home on an ordinary fabric of that same width. Follow the grain lines of course. Juggle the layout of the pattern pieces until you establish the absolute minimum yardage you need. This may not be an option if your desired fabric has a repeat print that you'll want to allow for (huge flowers, large medallions)

[@bethhull8463]

I do this, but be sure to account for fabric shrinkage when you prepare the fabric to be cut out.

[@dos5621]

I’m soooo glad u cleared that up because I’m like “ 1.2.3-10....wayment....rewind 1.2.3-10....what am I missing😂 I’m checking off my list y’all I was going through it lol....

[@elisevillemaire8344]

Mimi G, do you sew the clothes you professionally model for pattern companies? And do you make specific adjustments to those patterns on the regular? You always look fantastic!

[@MimiGStyleshow]

Elise Villemaire thoose are my designs, I have my own pattern collection and model them too.

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

I'd add that you need to make sure your sewing space is comfortable. Have adequate lighting, floor space for the pedal, room for your ironing board nearby, and a trash can or basket for collecting thread and fabric scraps. And LOTS OF BOBBINS, lol.

[@meannvlogs]

wow! big thanks Mimi G!

[@newtoatheism5968]

I am working on a one peice pattern tunic and I did a boo boo with the neckline I cut the back neckline the same length now the neckhole might be a bit big

[@kelleyarcher3635]

Step away from the Vogue pattern. 😂 I could have used that advice when I was 17.

[@rachelpinckney]

😂🤣😂

[@yolandarowe3094]

Couldn't we all? I was so very guilty of the ambitious pattern that required advanced technique as a teen.

[@sharona6319]

I love your sweater! Did you make it?

[@whimsybat1278]

It's funny, initially when I tried to sew using the pedal made me really nervous. When I bought a machine recently and tried it I found it much more easy and natural, and it never occurred to me until now that in between those attempts I did learn how to drive. XD

[@lonquenik3]

Yes that is one of my mistakes staring at the needle

[@timr4895]

That was very informative because I am learning to sew skirts and blouses for my wife. Get up the great work, by the way are you a New Yorker?

[@lynetterene]

I already liked the video b4 I saw it....carry on 😉

[@monicashahatit8211]

I have done just that. I have bought so much fabric and so many patterns, I keep looking through it all and it’s just to overwhelming to choose. The patterns end up on sale, so, who doesn’t want to get as much as possible? Teehee.