35 BEST SEWING TIPS AND HABITS! From YOU! All 100K of you! -Sewing lessons from my comments section!

This video is a compilation of the best 35 sewing tips and habits by YOU! They are real life sewing lessons that have been kindly left in the comments section, every sewers needs to know!
Thank you so much for helping make this milestone of 100,000 subscribers!
This video is for you, by you!
Thank you for being here and sharing your sewing experience with us! xx
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// WHAT TO WATCH NEXT:
How to DESIGN AND PLAN YOUR BEST SEWING SPACE, using the space you have!-Get 'Sew Organized' Phase 1
• How to DESIGN AND PLAN...
The best way to SORT AND ORGANIZE YOUR SEWING supplies! Get Sew Organized Phase 2!
• The best way to SORT A...
How to STORE AND DECORATE YOUR SEWING supplies for your ultimate sewing space! Sew Organized Phase 3
• How to STORE AND DECOR...
5 good sewing habits you need:
• 5 GOOD Sewing Habits Y...
How to know when its time to change the sewing machine needle? 5 ways to tell:
• How often should I cha...
TO PRE-WASH OR NOT TO PRE-WASH YOUR FABRIC BEFORE SEWING??? Why do I have to pre-wash fabric anyway?
SEW PERFECT THE FIRST TIME? Nope! Test these things and instantly sew better garments ‘first time’!
• SEW PERFECT THE FIRST ...
10 THINGS THE SEWING PATTERN DOESN’T TELL YOU! And you have to learn about sewing yourself!
• 10 THINGS THE SEWING P...
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Until next time
Evelyn
…
#evelynwood #leanrntosew #sewingforbeginners

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thank you so very much my sewing friends! ❤ Let me know what you want to see next! Join me at Vintage Sewing School for online sewing lessons www.vintagesewingschool.com/

[@thebratqueen]

Congrats on 100K! It is well deserved.

[@antiantipoda]

I found you recently. I have been learning so much. Thank you and congratulations. (From Brazil)

[@aaronlucas8162]

Top tip: read your machines manual. My machine automatically disengages the needle whilst winding a bobbin (computerised) and doesn’t have a thread take up lever. My old machine automatically disengages the needle via a mechanical cam when the bobbin winder is engaged and you step on the pedal (sounds like something breaks when it does it.). Another machine had you twist the inner section of the flywheel (yes, flywheel, it was where the drive mechanism linked to the machine by belt or arm) counter clockwise to disengage the needle. Most online tutorials I have seen say to pull out the handwheel and don’t say to check your manual for your machines specifics. Half the startup process for winding bobbins and threading don’t apply. Following these would result in a busted handwheel, wtf, that bit don’t exist, nor does that bit, how on earth do you thread this thing (modern computerised)?

[@marleen3397]

I just went through your list of videos and couldn't find anything about sewing machine feet...? Would you consider doing a quick tour of feet and how to use them?

[@seemarajderkar3019]

Thanks for all your videos.I would like to get some tips from you about these problems I face. 1. How to stitch a perfect 90 degree stitch while sewing at the corners of a square/rectangle piece of cloth, and 2. The position of the needle while turning the cloth at the 90 degree point !!

[@roxiepoe9586]

Injury to self: Back in the '70's, the most popular, prettiest girl in school paid a lot of money for a plaid, box pleated mini skirt. The plaid did NOT match! I decided to make one - but mine was going to match perfectly. I was determined. I was focused. I had never spent so much time cutting out, pinning, basting and focusing on a skirt. I had visions of how I would look walking away with my perfectly matched rear end making the pleats dance perfectly! My hair was waist length. I seldom pinned it up - that left bumps and one did not want bumps in one's hair! So, as I eased the needle into the pleats, working ever so slowly I somehow got my hair caught up in the pleats and sewed it in. The skirt was perfect. My hair, however, had a bit of a ragged edge on one side. I was never able to figure out just how I made that mess - but when your subscriber mentioned pinning up your hair, I laughed again at my 16 year old self.

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

Roxie, lets just think, her mother took her to some crappy sewist (probably friend of friend or related) who jumbled the pattern together and this chick wore it with pride cos she had NO idea about these things. Woe Betide Her. In my eyes, you won hands down. You can always do something creative with your hair til the ends grow out.. but that skirt? The pre-planning and matching you did? yeah. Shows workmanship and a fair bit of artisanal excellence. Thank you, this sounds like something I'd do. Hair and all .. xx

[@donnabuckmire4995]

LOL. Leason learnt😊

[@stefkadank-derpjr1453]

I am a Gemini...LOL...everytime I picked up material that had to be matched up...I thought oh lord

[@chaotickreg7024]

@@stefkadank-derpjr1453 That's not just a Gemini thing. It's a human thing.

[@chaotickreg7024]

Did you win?! Did anyone notice your epic victory?

[@laurametzger851]

I don’t know if this has been mentioned before, but a young seamstress, cutting my fabric at a JoAnn’s store, told me she irons lightweight interfacing to her tissue paper patterns to make them last longer, proving you can teach an old dog new tricks! 😉 ❤️ Happy Sewing all!

[@mattsabin4498]

Have to say I jumped and ran to my hubby when saw my comment featured!! 🤩🙈

[@lizh1955]

I learned this tip years ago from a home organizing book. Buy a box of 5x8-inch envelopes as well as a notebook that is a size that will hold a pattern envelope. When you buy a pattern, take one of your envelopes & at the top write the name of the pattern company & the pattern #. Transfer your pattern to this envelope. I file mine alphabetically by pattern company, then by pattern #. Now take the original pattern envelope & punch holes along the edge to fit your notebook. Now when you're shopping, you have a book of all your patterns with all the pertinent info that's printed on the back.

[@annamaxflair]

One other I can offer, when I sew by hand , I always stop after sticking myself with the needle after the 3rd time. It's an indication that it's time to stop & do something different for a bit.

[@KelpekProductions]

Wow! I use the rule of three sticks and I'm done, too.

[@A.a.319]

That's a great idea

[@annephillips2134]

I take an empty prescription bottle and labeled it "Used Needles". I put uses machine needles and dull pins in it. When it gets full I hand it to the garbage man. That way he does not get stabbed by an unknown needle. It is the kind thing to do.

[@Sheri...]

I use an empty prescription bottle (clearly labeled for pins & needles) as well.

[@judyjennings-gunther4022]

I must comment on the holding pins in your mouth. I must say I had been doing this for years until I read a story. The women didn't swallow the pin but she inhaled it and didn't realize. She felt fine but the boss said she had to got to the hospital. She got x-rays. The surgeon ended up having to go through her back and remove 1/4 of her lung tissue that surrounded the pin. That was it for me. I went cold turkey after 47 yrs.!

[@kgs2280]

Judy Jennings-Gunther, thank you for that story. I will never forget it, and I’m now cured of the bad habit of holding pins in my mouth.

[@meganwilliams2962]

I've never out the pins in my mouth. My Grandmother told me about how my Mum swallowed a pin as an 11 year old learning to sew. Only need to tell me ONCE.

[@mavismau8555]

Thank you for sharing this. I definitely will stop doing this.

[@ev.adelemandagie4589]

My goodness.

[@saral154]

My grandma always told me to check under my fabric before cutting. You never know when a fold might’ve appeared, you left a different pattern piece below the fabric, or (the one that happened most) left a tape measure below the fabric and accidentally cut it!

[@lindabrown7374]

Not sewing, but I just cut two of the finger tips off my gardening gloves.

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Sara L yes yes yes, I’ve accidentally cut a piece before luckily it was just a small project not some really nice fabric for a clothing project

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Sara L yes yes yes, I’ve accidentally cut a piece before luckily it was just a small project not some really nice fabric for a clothing project

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Sara L yes yes yes, I’ve accidentally cut a piece before luckily it was just a small project not some really nice fabric for a clothing project

[@taekwongurl]

Omg I did this 4x in one sitting and after each time I messed up, I promised myself I would be more aware. I still had to learn the same lesson 4x times tho :P

[@charlie9ine]

I’m not really a sewer. I am internationally acclaimed artist. I have taken up the craft in order to fabricate designs of costumes for my narrative characters. I came to your channel whilst struggling with making a 3/4 (3/4 around the waist) knife pleat skirt. Your explanation of fabric direction was an epiphany. I also learned how to properly use a stream iron. I watch most of your segments. Thank you. I spent 15 years as an instructor at a highly regarded design faculty in Canada. I know what a good teacher is. You know your craft

[@suzisaintjames]

When I put something in the mending box, I always pin on a note to remind myself what needs mending. Sometimes it's obvious, but sometimes there's more than one thing and the more obscure, gets missed... Until the next time it's worn. So frustrating to have to return it to the mending box. ❤🌅🌵

[@MsDawn0113]

Thank you so much for this video. So many great tips. I have a couple I'd like to share. 1. Someone talked about watching your posture while sewing. I have placed my machine on a wooden box to lift it higher so I don't have to bend down to see what I am doing. 2. I try to have a lot of space behind my machine so heavier fabric have a place to lay and not pull against the needle. 3. This is one I've just learned from @Enchanted Rose Costumes. Get a square of marble bathroom tile from the hardware store then separate the individual tiles to use as pattern weights. 4. Keep a lint roller handy to pickup all those little snipes of thread. Lastly the most helpful tip of all. 5. Read the comment section of each video. There is a wealth of information to be found here. Thank you again for all your videos.

[@raeafoley6131]

Yes to lifting the machine! I have recently tried that and it made such a difference, as my eyesight isn't great and I'm not overly find of sewing machines. But elevating it has made it much more approachable!😇

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

Yes to the correct bobbins.. Got in trouble with my machine repairer with that.

[@christenagervais7303]

I have another tip. For a cutting table, buy a folding banquet table, pad it, and cover with 1" square gingham fabric. Make sure to keep the squares even. It's really helpful when getting your fabric even. Plus it doesn't slide around!

[@sylviahildebrant6037]

Christina: what a wonderful idea!! Need to try this.

[@fouroakswisconsin]

Christena: Thank you for this idea! I just purchased some 1” gingham to place on the table pads of our formal dining room table. Excellent idea!

[@meman6964]

Brilliant, thanks for sharing a great idea

[@laurab1676]

This is a great idea!!!!!!!

[@CandiceLeeSchilt]

GENIUS!

[@joannmay-anthony1076]

my tip, a toilet brush bought for this specifically, use it to pick up threads and small fabric bits on a floor, especially if sewing on a rug.

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Jo Ann May-Anthony good idea

[@maryc4463]

That's an awesome idea!

[@susanrobertson984]

basting!! So underrated. Baste sleeves and make sure the ease is right. Baste gathered areas and make sure things are even and in the right place before running the final seam.

[@AM-os4ty]

I love basting. It really allows me to enjoy sewing rather than fight it.

[@_nette_]

I'd love to see a video about what bits basting can help with. I've recently started basting zips and find they are much easier to put in rather than just pinning, but I wonder what other ways basting might help me in getting a better finish.

[@martacz.4794]

@@_nette_ basting is also used during the first fit (you baste the front, the back, the sleve and the skirt if you want to check if it fits right). Then you can easily adjust any changes, undo the basting, adjust the pattern pieces and sew :) I love basting: both hand and machine one

[@jirup]

When I first learnt to sew I thought basting was a waste of time. 40 years later, I would much rather take the time to baste than try and sew tricky areas with pins.

[@ClaudiaArnold]

I baste a lot, too - when in doubt, baste it!

[@barbararowe771]

Surprised you don’t have a bazillion subscribers. You are the most pleasant & generous spirited person around, and you are a master at what you do!!! It is our pleasure to watch & listen!

[@tmerrytmerry]

I used marble hexagonal backsplash tiles with felt glued to the back for pattern weights.

[@tammyeaton4791]

That’s BRILLIANT!! I think I have some 1” tiles in a mesh that I can cut out if the mesh and glue to felt or something.

[@aimeevandijk1482]

Pretty! :D

[@LadyofBakerStreet]

recommendation: a good sweep and some kneepads! so many of us need to use the floor as our cutting surface

[@pigeonbrain1534]

I was just coming to say this same thing! Vacuum, sweep, wipe down tables in the area you are working even if it looks clean. I have a cat so it is only fur-free immediately after cleaning.

[@StarlingofAzerath]

I give up on fur. Haha my cats will walk over everything or plop down onto my fabric...luckily i only work on cottons and its only for me.

[@jparadise5336]

Yes! They have some at dollar tree used for planting but I use for cutting at times when I can’t use the table

[@meganwilliams2962]

I used cut on the floor. My knees can't take that anymore. I used a large self-healing cutting mat on the dining table or ktichen bench :-).

[@VL-rh5tu]

I often cut on my yoga mat, which is nicer for the knees and there's some friction against the lighter fabrics I have worked with recently. Added bonus is that I can pin the fabric in place on the mat for pattern tracing. This obviously only works for relatively small projects.

[@Manecoarse]

Great tips. I have a tip to share. If you are going out of town, before you leave will be a good time to take your machine in to a shop for cleaning or repair.

[@pirozhockskotom2238]

I’m not a professional, so I learn from professionals. Right now I am working on a project with patterns I bought from the store, so I searched and found tutorial here on KZbin for this exact pattern- every single step, and it helps sooo much! You can see what exactly they did, how it looks in the end, what additional things you need and soo on. There are already existing tutorials for almost any pattern or type of garment on KZbin, blogs, and soo on. Seek and ye shall find.

[@catofthecastle1681]

When my mother in law passed away, I was gifted all of her sewing equipment. The most exciting thing was her pattern weights, they were brass awards given to her during her college career for many skills, sewing, horseback riding, poetry, penmanship, chemistry, you get the idea. Her 4 sons had never seen them! It is so exciting every time I pull them out!

[@autumn7143]

Iron your tissue paper patterns to freezer paper. It turns them into hard paper patterns so they last longer.

[@blazertundra]

I like that! I use spray adhesive to attach mine to packing paper, but your way sounds better.

[@autumn7143]

Just iron it to the shiny side of the paper. It works great.

[@l.baughman1445]

Similar is pressing them onto fusible interfacing (no steam) 🤗😷👍

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Autumn Mahaffey what temperature do iron with

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Autumn Mahaffey also do they take up more room, can you fold them

[@krankywitch]

I photocopy the front & back of my pattern envelopes and keep those in folder. If I want to make something, I can flip through to choose, and check the ingredients list without having to pull the actual pattern out. If I’m going fabric shopping, I can take the photocopy with me so I can hold potential fabrics up to the image and try to visualise it made up, plus I have the fabric requirements, notions and recommended fabrics with me. I also have a swatch book of the clothes I have already made and the fabrics in my stash, so when I’m shopping I can choose fabrics that will coordinate with my existing wardrobe.

[@Sheri...]

Wow, you are so organized! I need to implement these ideas.

[@agargoyle12345]

When I'm drafting a pattern, especially when I need a larger than normal sheet of paper, I use gift wrap. Some of it even has squares or dots for cutting guides on the "backs" (the side I'm interested in). Before cutting out a pattern I'm going to be using repeatedly, I go over the lines I'm going to be cutting on with package tape. Then cut it out, and I have a rip-proof, plastic edge. Instead of fabric chalk, which I always end up smudging to the point of it not marking anything anymore, I use a stick of soapstone. You can get it at tool supply places, welders use them for marking on steel. It looks like chalk, but is much harder. It holds an edge much better than chalk, so you can make much finer marks. And it washes out. They're about pencil-sized and usually you get a half-dozen for a US$. If you run out of that temporary no-sew glue, white glue/school glue/Elmer's glue will work. It washes out. Drying it by ironing works, too.

[@chriswatson1698]

I purchased a ream of tissue paper from a local packaging supply firm. I chose the heavier weight and it is great. I have heard that it can be had on a roll.

[@kellyturner7151]

Yes! I always use dollar tree wrapping paper instead of 30$+ pattern paper extremely underrated lol

[@RaeganScarlett]

How do you stop your wrapping paper from rolling itself up all the time? I keep having this problem

[@SebbieSaurus22]

@@RaeganScarlett When cutting, use weights to hold the wrapping paper down. Once you have your pattern piece(s), iron the paper on your iron's lowest heat setting, WITHOUT water/steam. Iron both sides of the wrapping paper pattern pieces for the best results. There might still be a gentle curl, but it won't roll up on you completely any more.

[@aliciaw4070]

My iron has an auto off safety feature. If it's still for 5 minutes, it turns itself off. It wasn't an expensive or fancy iron, but such a good purchase. Check for this feature if you're buying an iron, it will save stress and panic. (I still turn it off the normal way, but this prevents a house fire if I get distracted)

[@deltaflute03]

Mine I think shuts off of upright longer than 10 minutes and if down 2 minutes. That’s another feature if you get distracted mid-press to have it shut off before you catch something on fire.

[@brideoflevi]

Make a pressing template by drawing lines on a sheet of cardstock for 1/4 inch folds, 1/2, 1, & 2. Fold the fabric over the line and press. Free and such a game changer!!

[@annamarieh333]

This one is GOLD!

[@debbiebarnett1920]

Elizabeth Dennis can you please post a pic so I can make sure I’m picturing this right

[@brideoflevi]

KZbin doesn't allow images in comments... I used my quilting ruler and marked 1/4 inch from the edge of the paper on top and bottom and then connected the dots. I rotated the paper and did the same for 1/2 inch, then did the other 2 on the back.

[@kathythompson5800]

I have a couple of tips. First, when you have finished using your pattern pieces and are folding them up to go back into their package, fold them so you can see hat number pattern piece it is. That way when you use the pattern next and what you are making calls for different pieces you can find them easily. My second tip is to use a paper grocery sack for your trash near your sewing machine. It opens wide and will sit on the floor by itself, and if you have accidently thrown something away that you needed, you can find it. DO NOT use this trash receptacle for anything but sewing things.

[@MsSherrydarling]

I attach a small pair of scissors to my sewing machine handle with a length of ribbon. I never have to look very far for scissors.😁

[@betrisherninox2865]

Bananas make great pattern weights. They have the added benefit of curving nicely round the arm scye. :)

[@lauraruthruff4741]

Such great tips!! As a new sewer I've learned so much using these great tips. One of the biggest things I've learned is when changing the needle I now place paper over the feed dogs.. Have you ever dropped a needle and loose it in the machine? A very scary lesson to learn.

[@CB-hi7mf]

They sell needle holders at Walmart. I use them, but yah, I do feel your pain. Happened to me many times. The needle charger holders are made by Singer.

[@ClaudiaArnold]

One tip or rather rant from me - do wear your glasses! I know many who are so proud that they are in their late forties and still do not "need" readers but to everyone else it is glaringly obvious how impaired their vision has become. A male friend of mine (a master pastry baker) once thought there was no restroom in the bar we were in, he could not see the signs! If you need to save face you can hide a pair of drugstore readers in your sewing box. Believe me, it's a game changer.

[@lindafarquhar3018]

One thing I learnt to do was to 'slow down'. To many mistakes made from rushing things! Great vlog btw.

[@TheIdeabaker]

And that is a good overall life lesson!

[@SequoiaSleeps]

Evelyn a video about different fabric contents would be really really helpful! Especially in telling them apart and knowing what ones to buy for different types of projects.

[@woodenkat8971]

She has one on discovering the fiber content.

[@shahlahemmati6984]

I learned from my older sister that on the days when you want to sew, do not try to do other big chores like cleaning your house or going grocery shopping or things like that. That way you are not in a rush to get your sewing done so you can finish other things on your list.

[@AmaboTe]

While others mentioned Ziploc / food storage bags for patterns, I find them to always have extra air and just be hard to store in a way that make them easily accessible in the future. I opt for manila envelopes which fit nicely into storage totes and filing cabinets for future reference and access. Also, if I find I'm likely to reuse a store-bought pattern I will transfer it to sturdier pattern paper such as I would draft my own patterns on. At the very end, you mentioned injuries. Here's mine: I have an all-metal, beast of a machine circa 1940s which has horsepower to rival some of the industrial machines I had access to in college. I was working on a reproduction of a 1950s vogue pattern and accidentally hit the pedal a little too hard, sewing straight through my finger in the middle of the fingernail. I had to bite my lip to keep focus to remove the presser foot and then use the hand wheel to back up the stitching, then pull my finger down and off of the needle. Once my finger was free (and bleeding) that's when I freaked out. To this day, I take extra precaution to keep my fingers away from the presser foot and needle.

[@miriammoriarty8588]

Owww! :(

[@babs2934]

Don't sew when your tired... #truth ! Trip to ER and 6 stitches later, I learned this lesson 😩😔.

[@pirozhockskotom2238]

brbdoll uh oh I’m sorry.

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

Oooh! No scars I hope?

[@meganwilliams2962]

Oh Sweetie!!!!! Owies.

[@blazertundra]

Hand sewing tips: If you're using a double thread and the thread is knotting itself very easily, slide it over a block of beeswax. I filled a tiny glass container with beeswax pellets and melted them in it to make mine. It has a nice cover and I just press the thread into it as I pull it along. If it still knots up, snip the thread at the needle and thread the two cut ends through it. The thread will not twist very easily and it speeds things up a lot. Just be sure to have a pincushion on hand to store the needle when not in use. I had a needle disappear while I was sitting on my bed because I pinned it in the project and it fell out. A year later, I felt a poke while sleeping. It turns out it went for a "swim" in my memory foam mattress and finally surfaced for a blood meal a year later.

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

ooh my about your mattress! thankyou for the handsewing tips. i shall use them xx

[@deannastevens1217]

TipTrick I clean out my machine with that mascara sample wand (beauty store $2 for 10+) every time I change the bobbin. I don't change my needle with every project, UNLESS it requires a different size.. I will sharpen the needle in a 'sandberry' (the one attached to the tomato for pins) or with a fine steel wool pad (dollartree $1 for 8 pads) This deburrs the needles the same way that a 'steel' sharpens knives. It helps to sharpen them up and polishes the shaft. If necessary you can use a felt to polish the shaft for even smoother action. I do this with pins that seem to have issues and always have a sandberry and steel wool to sharpen them. The pins and needles last a lot longer and I'm not wasting money. I have also learned to sharpen/polish a needle fresh from the pack just in case. I have had some that had snags. It just makes it smoother. ALSO Get a Very Good Light for above your sewing station!!! I feel the machine light bulb is not bright enough and have now put an LED Shop Light above my workstation. It makes all the difference for the fabrics and hand work. I do feel that there needs to be more light in the throat of the machine so you can see each stitch more clearly and how the fabric is moving through the machine better. Thanks for a great video. I do an incredible amount of those tips now. and am very grateful for the knowledge.

[@galemonterio5261]

You can also add a $store “tap” light under the area to shine on your work ....some of them have magnets to attach or Velcro and use AAA batteries....when getting duller you can just change anew ....

[@deannastevens1217]

@@galemonterio5261 Thank you. I believe that's what we use at my friend's house. I need to get those for mine too. :D Thank you again.

[@Asumae]

I use the "tiny pipe cleaners" that are supposed to be used to floss your teeth to get all the tiny lint in tiny places

[@raeafoley6131]

Haha! My Mum does that too!😂

[@ClaudiaArnold]

Genius! I'll try this.

[@debbiewhite3270]

I use the long pipe cleaner to clean the tension plates and fold half of one to clean under the throat plate works great

[@SimplyThirdStreet]

Me too! As a teacher I always have a bunch.

[@barbolson8768]

Where do you buy pipe cleaners ?

[@ZethsCraftDesk]

I put a chalkboard sticker on the side of my machine to write a little note about what needle is in the machine. Also, sometimes around Christmas time, JoAnn's has a little gift card tin that's shaped like a sewing machine. I took the plastic card holder out of the tin and store my machine needles in it; it's super cute and I can always tell right away what's inside the tin when I look at it so it doesn't get confused with the classic cookie tin. XD

[@josephalexandergemmell9979]

this is a good trick my mother taught me: when you sew the inside leg seam, the pattern tells you to start at one ankle, and sew all the way to the other in 1 operation. fhen go back and sew a reinforcing stitch about 12" either side of the crotch seam, over the original seam. the problem is it is very easy for your fabric to slip, and it affects your hem line at the bottom of the leg. instead, start the inside leg at 1 ankle, and sew to 12" past the crotch seam. repeat starting at the other ankle. reinforced, and much less likely to slip!

[@sylviahildebrant6037]

One thing I always do is look carefully at the pattern. At times they throw in a 3/8 seam that isn't mentioned on the instruction sheet. And I ALWAYS jot down on the instruction sheet what their hems are as, once again, they never mention this. Also I always put a strap of fabric under the presser foot between projects. Helps with the dust problems!

[@coconutpanda]

I've been sewing for years but only recently taken an interest in pattern drafting. I learned this tip recently - you can use non-woven plant cover mesh fabric to trace pattern pieces. This would be the kind of light weight, gauze-like mesh fabric that gardeners use to cover planting hoops to keep out bugs. It comes in sheets of 10 by 30 feet for under $15. It's so much easier to fold and store than paper!

[@thebratqueen]

That tip about using a light or music to let you know if you left your power strip on is brilliant. I'll have to try it!

[@lindawisner3525]

Unplug your older sewing machines as the foot pedals can start a fire. Even if you aren't using the machine a pet may lay on it or the pedal may be stuck just enough to be on. The older pedals use resistors to regulate the electricity, so you will notice your foot getting warm as you are using it. If it is getting hot you need to replace the pedal. Great video again Evelyn!

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I read my new sewing machine manual all the way through before first use. There is a lot of great information in there.

[@46Shar]

Then read it again every year! You’ll be surprised at how much you’ve forgotten, and pleased at the reminders.

[@annbarth7358]

Congratulations on 100K subscribers! I enjoy your videos...n miss your "lovely ladies and gents " opening line. One tip I have is to put thread snippets in a teacup (within arm's reach) then every spring take that outside for the birds to use when building their nests.

[@joanacavaco4420]

I have a small plastic yogurt bucket (500g) that I place on the table on my left side. Every time I cut a thread or a small piece of fabric I trow it immediately away on this “table trash bin”. I empty it after sewing and use a hand held vacuum cleaner to my table, machine and floor. Then I hide the bucket away on a drawer - that thing is ugly... greetings from Portugal, love your videos!

[@debbiewhite3270]

Sew a pretty cover for your "ugly" bucket :-))

[@alannachristie6495]

I now always look at pattern reviews on the internet to see what others think of the pattern. most post pictures so you can get a real idea on how the garment will look and what the other sewers like and don't like about the pattern, and what modifications they have done, etc. Another tip is always prewash your interfacing! found out that it makes a real difference!!!!!!

[@Sheri...]

I never would have tbought of prewashing interfacing. Can you prewash the iron on kind too?

[@elenanojkovic2554]

My tip-the small tricky, areas-take time and do them by hand. The first time I was making pockets, I tried to do it all on a machine. It was INCREDIBLY frustrating. On my latest project (which I'm actually finishing now) I did all of the tricky things by hand. I can't say it looks better really, but it was deffinitely nicer on my nerves.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yeeeesss!! Such a good tip!! I agree, finishes and tricky things, do by hand for far better control... and far less stress! Thanks so much for watching!

[@AM-os4ty]

I too am stressed by tricky sewing machine work. Hand basting and hand sewing maybe slower, but there's a happy human at the end.

[@raeafoley6131]

I couldn't agree more! I love hand sewing!😁🌈

[@judyjennings-gunther4022]

I worked in a fancy dressmaking shop when I was 19 yrs old. We would only sew in zippers by hand(not fly front of course). I find it much easier and it looks so much better than doing it on machine. When I hand sew I sit in our front room that has huge south facing windows and our TV. I sit on the couch with some beverage close at hand, put a movie in and just start sewing. I tending to do several hand sewing projects at once, since I am all settle in. I find it very relaxing.

[@deidreross2126]

When putting away fabric bought “on spec” I pin a label to it with a note of fabric content and meterage. It saves so much time when shopping my stash as I immediately know if there is enough and if it is suitable for the garment I have in mind. There have been times where I thought noting the fabric type wasn’t necessary because I would remember what it is... add a few years and I am down to guessing, especially with blends.

[@bludeetu321]

Hi, Love your channel. Thought I would share my fav sewing habit. I de-fluff my machine every day at the end of my day. I found a super cheap keyboard vacuum on line. It plugs into the USB port on my machine or my power board. I use a small, stiff brush to loosen fluff and the vac picks it up as I go. Instead of purchasing the small filters required, I use scraps of fine interfacing and cut my own. Machine works better and needs less servicing as a result. Happy sewing and thanks again.

[@woodenkat8971]

When sewing a pattern that has different looks all together in the instructions, highlight the one you are working on so you don't get confused and have to backtrack.

[@pamgeorge7390]

I used to worry about throwing my broken needles and straight pins away and someone getting injured by them when discarding the trash. I solved my problem by using an old prescription bottle. I covered it with scrapbooking paper so it looked attractive in my sewing area. Now, I can safely discard them with no worries. 😊

[@neurotichellfem]

I do this too, @Pam George! Mine isn't covered with paper - I just used a marking pen to write "Blunt needles".

[@Smacsek]

A tip to stay sitting straight is to get a posture correcter. It pulls your shoulders back a little and I just instinctively sit up just a bit straighter. A good chair also helps

[@jmlane5156]

When sewing in an invisible zipper, I always hand wheel the first three stitches next to the ‘stopper’ at the top before using the pedal and reverse stitch and lock them in. That way I make sure I’m as close as possible to the stopper but not actually on it. I have sewn hundreds of decorative pillow covers, but other than becoming an expert at invisible zippers, I still consider myself a novice seamstress since I haven’t sewn a piece of clothing in forty years. Maybe this is the year to try...

[@SherylFZsmom]

hahaha "Felt pads on the feed dogs"! funny.

[@joannmay-anthony1076]

I forgot this tip. When i buy wovens, I buy an extra 1/4 yard or extra 20 cm so that after I prewash, I then tear the non-selvage ends to make the material correctlly "squared". Be careful with flannels. If its not a good flannel, it will not tear correctly.

[@christenagervais7303]

Thank you, that is a very logical tip!

[@rhonddalesley]

I use hair straighteners to ‘iron’ the creases out of ribbon and trims but remember to start at a lower temperature and work your way up, especially for synthetic fibres!

[@arlostone8080]

I’m late but here’s mine- wear glasses or some form of eye protection when sewing. You never know when your needle is going to break and go flying (happened to me a few hours ago).

[@tonestorbraten9205]

Best tip: Watch all the commercials to the end. Do not skip! This is one way to pay the content maker. If someone makes something worth waching, like Evelyn does, this is one way to pay her ❤

[@MissLeminii]

It might be more of a housekeeping tip and not sewing tip. My habit when ironing clothes are to sort them out not only by type (t-shirts, dresses, skirts pants etc.) but also by fiber content. I start with the clothes with the lowest iron setting and work my way up. Helps to keep track of the iron setting and stay organized. Never have burned a hole in my clothes, didn't even know that you can melt the plastic in poly until recently. :)

[@natashabanks13]

Keeping my sewing space clean is the biggest thing for me, there is nothing that lends a veil of stress to a project like a chaotic work space. scraps directly in the scrap bin, pins back into the pin cushion, scissors back in their place after each use etc, etc. Same goes for the project itself, threads trimmed and and seams pressed. If I'm finding that my space is getting messy, then I'm too tired to sew and it's time to wrap it up for the day.

[@concreteduck1989]

OMG I can't find the comment, but whoever suggested feeding in the pieces I'm sewing into the machine one after the other, without cutting threads in between is a genius! I'm making facemasks (Yes I live in Victoria) for my family and it's quite a production line. This hint was a game changer! Thank you! PS: Love your videos Evelyn, it's made me excited about sewing again. :)

[@ivymazzola1214]

Wow that's amazing... I guess you stop short of the end of each piece and backstitch it, then go onward to the other, backstitch a bit, and so on?

[@yamandiab127]

My tip: always lower the needle on the machine when you leave the room even for a moment , it's safer for kids and pets ; as my cats tike to jump on the table 😊

[@fiberfarmstead]

My late Mom use to clean and oil my machine. Even when she got in to Alzheimer's she'd love to sit and sew. ❤️

[@sarahhardy8649]

Two tips, I iron my pattern pieces and then, if I think that I will be using it again (I make bags, storage bins, toys etc so sizing isn’t an issue) I iron fusible interfacing on the reverse of the pattern. I can still make tailors tacks etc, the pattern is sturdier and doesn’t tear so easily, and the interfacing helps it stay in place when I put it on the material, still requires pins or weights but it doesn’t tend to shift during the pinning process) Second tip, I label what I cut out, with either a pinned piece of paper or an address label that doesn’t leave residue when removed. For example, it’s hard to tell the difference sometimes between a front piece and a back piece, but there can be small differences that allow for side panels etc.

[@maryjanegibson7743]

Bobbi's tip is more important that people might think it is. I have actually put a needle completely through a finger more than once. It doesn't hurt for a half second, then it does and I ended up screaming until my mother or husband came to rescue me and get the needle out of my finger (and that moment of delay will seem like the longest one of your life, you can believe me on that).

[@florisanogueira4681]

This is such a cool video, thank you! My top tip was given to me by a retired seamstress. I use jersey needles for most fabrics (except for heavy duty ones) as they are less damaging because of their ball point, it's especially good for fabrics like chiffon.

[@ladygray6522]

My mother taught me to run the needle through my hair (near the scalp) to make it glide through the fabric easier when hand sewing. Works for diaper pins too, for those that have returned to old fashioned diapering. Try it! 😀

[@shirleydrake1602]

Lady Gray you can also use a bar of soap to sharpen pins and needles. Simply push the pin or needle into the bar of soap and pull it out, magically they are then good and sharp again.

[@jirup]

I always did that with nappy (diaper) pins, sewing pins and hand sewing needles, just not for machine needles.

[@christenagervais7303]

@@shirleydrake1602 I do this same thing myself. Plus, it makes the room smell fresh!

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

This tip also works for people using clean knitting needles or cold knitting needles or crochet hooks by the same token. I have run many a knitting needle through my hair(usually towards the back of the scalp or near my ears) to help glide stitches through. Clean hair isnt as helpful as second or third day hair. I learnt this tip off Ravelry Members and I use it today xx

[@annamarieh333]

My mother did the same thing! Aww what loving memories!

[@janetcozens5756]

When I was a meer child at school learning to sew We were told never too Run with Scissors in Our Hands. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏💐💐💐💐💐😃😃😃😃😃😃😃 Amazing Hints and Tipz

[@pennyenicks7905]

Not sewing when you're tired is a big one. That's how I ended up with the manatees on my shirt swimming on their backs.

[@VL-rh5tu]

Also not sewing when you're hungry! Everything gets way more difficult when hungry or tired.

[@lisettegarcia]

😅🤣😂

[@sekaihatsu]

Thank you for sharing these! I remembered some, heard some new ones, and was reminded of others. One thing my high school sewing teacher would say to our class was "Control your machine!" it wasn't race and sewing machines are not cars.

[@debbiromero9559]

One tip I always follow is avoid distractions. If there's things going on around you or children suddenly needing your attention, pets playing in your sewing area and so on. Just don't sew while distracted as that needle moving up and down is sharp and powerful and will penetrate your finger/hand, believe me.

[@tawandaclayton6771]

Congratulations!! This is awesome news!! Please don't leave us as you grow!! We need you!! And we LOVE you!!! You are the best Teacher and make learning so easy and entertaining!! 💗💕

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thankyou Tawanda! 😍😍

[@sandybush1661]

One thing I keep having to tell myself is to take my time and do it right. I have such limited time to sew, I have a tendency to rush through to get as much done as I can and then have to go back and fix stuff. Also, from one of your future videos, to practice everything before actually working on your project.

[@cherirowden]

TOTALLY off topic, but you have the MOST perfect eyebrows I've ever seen!

[@critter4004]

She's so cute! Reminds me of Snow White!! ❤

[@chriswatson1698]

I scavenge cardboard rolls and store my traced patterns on them so that they don't have to be ironed before use. I save the mylar plastic (washed) that comes around the bunched of flowers that my friends give me to protect the tracing paper pattern. The plastic or paper wrap is marked at the end with the original pattern brand and number and a description of the garment it was used for. A strip of the fabric from the garment ties up the roll. If you don't have the space, just do it for your most-used patterns. I have made a rack to hold mine. The original stays with the pattern envelope and instructions, in an A4 plastic bag that a magazine came in.

[@kll815]

Chris Watson You are my hero! Great reusing and organizing tips!

[@cherylwalsh3323]

Hi Evelyn and other sewing friends. I have one more habit for everyone. Sort of a "No Brainer" but I do it all the time. --- NO Eating OR Drinking on your assembly table. Not only might you spill something on your garment BUT you may end up with a straight pin at the bottom of your coffee cup like I did today!!! WOW - That was a close one! Good thing I live in Florida and have gotten use to looking in my cup as a drink - Lots of bugs here in FL... :)

[@heatherknox4002]

I trace my patterns on freezer paper. I can then iron the pattern to my fabric and I can get a very precise cut

[@meman6964]

Can the freezer paper pattern peel off so it can be used again? I'm not good at precision cutting, but this could make the difference. I do hope you will answer

[@heatherknox4002]

@@meman6964 yes!!! It can be used several times and doesn't damage any of the fabrics I have used it on (though obviously be cautious with delicate or heat sensitive fabrics)

[@JackFrost-mh8ss]

I’m a man and I’m just starting sewing and to let you know I could kiss you because you are so helpful thank you❤

[@MiaTheodoratus]

Tips to sew delicate fabric and silk

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thankyou for watching! And for the suggestion! 😄

[@ev.adelemandagie4589]

Thread it. Pull up and cut the thread. The remains of the thread can be seen and easy to sew.

[@sarabockenstedt9237]

I found your channel only a month or so ago and you have inspired me to return to garment construction after years of focusing on quilts and purses. I would love to see a video on inserting/placing waist stays. I have some formals that need some but I am unsure how to do so. My best tip is to familiarize yourself with your machine, use muslin and a dark colored thread (for contrast), and create a sampler of all the stitches. Use a ball point pen to write down the stitch number. This helps to not only see the stitches actually stitched out, but also what the basic settings for that stitch is (width, length).

[@celiahaddon4087]

I have two tips to pass on. First, when you’re removing the needle thread, cut it at the point where the thread goes into the tension discs. Remove the reel of thread from the top and the remaining thread from the needle by pulling down. If you yank out all your thread from the top of the machine it can damage your tension discs. Second tip is to always leave the presser foot down when you finish your sewing. Storing your machine with the presser foot up places a strain on the presser lever.

[@A.a.319]

I know we're not supposed to sew when tired, but anyone else feel a rush of inspiration at night? I never feel like sewing in the beginning of the day, but at night about after 5pm I get a rush of inspiration and need to sew.

[@Kitkat-mn5ud]

If you are on a domestic machine, you can slightly slant the machine with a wedge(can use two door stop wedges). What this does is, it helps you see the needle so you won't be as bad to hunch down to see it.

[@nancymandle5215]

Congratulations- i’ve been following you for several years and always felt that eventually your channel would soar!!!! So many shared moments - anyone else in the comments remember when our dear evelyn had that horrid computer problem and lost valuable footage? Hasn’t hurt the channel one bit! And the thrift shop hauls - i doubt i am i the only one who misses them soooo much, and so look forward to the day when we can enjoy them once more.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

😄 Awww Nancy you have been here for a while!! Thankyou so much! ❤ I remember thrift hauls too ... soon I'm sure 😃

[@Mseguin6]

You're SUCH a joy to watch! Thank you for giving me the push to start my new hobby! Your videos are so helpful for the beginners and (I'm sure) for the more experienced home sewers/dressmakers/etc.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Awww thankyou for your kind words! 😊

[@elizabetheleck1246]

Buy and use vintage sewing machines. If you're looking for something dependable that will sew a beautiful straight seam, vintage is the way to go. They are easy to maintain, easy to repair, and most use readily available accessories (bobbins, needles). Most new machines which are geared for the casual or new sewist (easy on the pocketbook) are not as good as a solid vintage machine. Keep your eyes open at garage sales, thrift stores, and auctions. It's amazing what you can find.

[@jenniferschmitzer299]

I gave away a mint green machine I had serviced.. I found it on the footpath on burwood rd rockdale for council collection and took it home.. this was 1996. had its cover and other things and weighed a tonne. its cords were cut but it had its housing etc. took it to the machine repair place on parramatta rd stanmore-ish to fix it. they did. i couldnt work it out but gave it to sallies hoping someone else could benefit from my adventures. It was a nice machine. I just couldn't understand it. xx

[@anitagander4358]

I always have a magnet at hand to collect any dropped or just laying around pins. :)

[@cwfan2]

Hi from Missouri, USA I have several things I do in my sewing room: 1. Keep magnets to help pick up any pins you might drop. Also, put a magnet in an old dish, and as you work discard pins into the dish. I know you can buy the magnetic pin holder, but why, you've got an old dish, saucer, or bowl lying around. 2. Attach plastic sticky-backed hooks onto the side of your cutting/sewing table. Put a loop of scrap fabric through the handles of each pair of scissors and rotary cutters and hang them on the hooks. They're right at your fingertips when you need them and out of the way when you don't. 3. I have plastic storage drawers for my unfinished projects. I keep all my pattern & fabric pieces, notions, thread, etc for that project. I've also learned the hard way to write notes about what the project is. I make up my own patterns, so it's not like I could put the pre-printed pattern in the drawer. I cut out a pattern about two years ago and then had to abandon it for a while. I can't remember what I was doing. NOTES TO SELF ARE IMPORTANT!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Great tips! Thankyou 😊

[@thebookishhbookworm]

I live in Missouri also!

[@cwfan2]

@@thebookishhbookworm What part of Missouri? I'm in Warrensburg.

[@thebookishhbookworm]

I live in Independence!

[@cwfan2]

@@thebookishhbookworm Not very far away!

[@Ms.Mel.Creates]

My very very newbie tip is this: when you’re throwing away needles of any kind, weave them through a piece of scrap or secure them with a piece of tape / packing tape. This keeps them from poking through the garbage bag and staying behind or, if they do pop out, it makes them a LOT easier to find and pick up again!

[@jobarger6082]

Love how you explain EVERY step. LOTS of beginner utube assume you know somethings already. My tip is to use a command hook on side of your machine for a small pair of scissors to cut your thread or clip curves

[@TheHaymeadow]

I recently thought to use an 'air duster' (canned pressurised air) for cleaning out my machine, so easy and did a fantastic job, much better than using my brush.

[@suem6004]

Actually the can air blows lint further into the machine. You need a vacuum instead. Several sewing machine repair guys said this

[@TheHaymeadow]

Sue M, thanks for the heads up, I thought I was so clever too 😒

[@jmlane5156]

I recently purchased a set of tiny attachments for my regular vacuum so I could use it for my machines - particularly my serger. Cost approximately $17.00 Canadian via Amazon. Excellent investment .

[@celiahaddon4087]

Haymeadow no please don’t do this! All it does is bury the dust deep inside your machine’s vital components. That will cause you problems down the line.

[@fayboswell3479]

I was lazy to prewash, until covid. I would wash after the project is done. Now all fabric goes to wash before working on it. It definitely helps.

[@haakdraakje]

Oh my! Near to whiplash because of all the vigorous nodding as the tips went by. So nice to hear others having the same experiences/problems. You've got yourself a new subscriber!

[@shirleydrake1602]

I actually met a young girl at a fortune tellers, many years ago,, who had actually swallowed a straight pin. Thankfully she swallowed it head first, which was vey lucky for her. It still required surgery to remove and could have been a very hazardous thing for her. She was about 14. Bet she never put pins in her mouth again. Neither did I. I love the light and iron trick. I have recently replaced my fabric scissors. My husband kept stealing them and hiding them in his bathroom drawer. I finally caught him with them, he was using them to trim his hair! Dulled them right up.

[@fiberfarmstead]

Yes! Good posture! Body mechanics. I'm a health care worker and this is so important. It fights fatigue and keeps one alert. It's easy to forget and relax... That is when most "accidentally" accidents happen. Stay alert. Use your body correctly. Very important👍

[@anitaorban-magashazy5806]

After watching the video I remember 2 other thing which let say I had bad experience. Number 1: If it is hard to tell which the material right and wrong side as look so similar ALWAYS mark the wrong side on the pieces as so easy to mix it up and you can sew the wrong part when you are a beginner. Number 2: After pre-washing the material leave it flat to dry it especial if you buy 2-3meter stretchy material. I folded and left it on the laundry drying rack and after it was dry all marking from the rack was on and was hard to iron it out and also the stretchy fabric was pulled at the corners of the rack due to the weight. Not sure how to describe it. Since then I just folded and leave it on the carpet so the gravitation won't damage the fabric. One more: ALWAYS double check measurements. Check twice, cut once.

[@chemistrycat3961]

Go to goodwill outlets if you have them! You purchase things by the pound and it’s the cheapest way to buy expensive fabric and other Findings. You will also help reduce textile waste!