5 Tips To Improve Your Hand Sewing Before You Even Begin to Stitch!

[@AbbyCox]

Hi Friends! If you're looking to purchase any needles or threads I mention in the video, I have links in the description! If you're looking for a one-stop-shop for good hand sewing needles and thread, check out Burnley & Trowbridge - www.burnleyandtrowbridge.com ❤️

[@racheldavis5482]

OMG I Needed this video! The first and last tips are going to help me so much. It never even occurred to me that needles would make much of difference until I heard you say it. I mean, obviously, if you have crappy tools then your experience and end product are going to be kinda crappy too. Also, thank you for spelling out the importance of basting because catching threads on pin heads is SO frustrating. P.S. I just inherited my Grandma's thimble and it fits. I'm super excited to use it and also her French curve.😁❤ Edit* Just for clarification, Grandma is still with us. She has arthritis, so, she doesn't crochet and sew anymore.

[@sarahconte9083]

What size linen thread would you suggest?

[@evi6784]

thank you sooooooo much! I just started sewing a few days ago (finally!!!) and I'm always uncomfortable looking up tutorials from youtubers I don't know at all and how much I can trust, and while I could theoretically just ask my mother, who was good at sewing, I really prefer to not disturb her? So yeah this video feels like it is a gift from heaven just for me, with that perfect timing and all ^^' and now I can also find out how to use a thimble, that was the very first thing I made just because I knew that everyone says it is crucial but I don't actually know how and why, so I'm excited to find that out! Again, thank you ^^

[@AM-os4ty]

Thank you!

[@hannayaklin4163]

Do certain kinds of thread twist less than others?? Every time I get in a rhythm (whip stitching) I have to stop and untwist my thread.

[@XOXCGEANE]

Fun fact: Pin cushions usually come w/a smaller version of it attached by a string. That small version hanging off a dongle is NOT an extra pin cushion. It's filled w/graphite & its purpose is to sharpen your needles. Just jab it in & out until you reach your desired sharpness! 😊

[@DDs878]

Good to know👌😯

[@edieweiss5797]

Wow, that is interesting!! Who new? Thank you!

[@edieweiss5797]

I meant knew!

[@mads.arnautov]

WHAT OMFG THATS WHAT THE TEENY PEPPER ON MY TOMATO PINCUSHION IS??? I thought it was for the cat to have something to bap at while he watches you?????

[@inknosecat]

@@mads.arnautov that is the cutest interpretation of that pepper i've ever heard of. i'm sure a kitty would enjoy it too! just be sure there's no needles in there :)

[@zoenightshade3053]

"Most needles made today are crap." totally agree. I accidentally sat on a needle once, and instead of poking me, it BROKE! It just shattered into like 5 pieces!

[@user-guigui01]

I also accidentally sat on a needle, because I forgot I placed it in the chair, pointing up. It bent over, cutting my thigh and groin slightly, 'cause instead of getting up, I dragged myself out of the chair. I found out at night or at the next day, if I'm correct. Hhhh.

[@catherine5526]

next time I test the quality of a needle, I'll make sure to sit on it. Thanks for the tip :)

[@JayPersing]

Thats...not ideal

[@AT-ox9np]

@@catherine5526😂😂

[@MorganDonner]

BASTING BAES! It's the mockup of the stitch world, 100% recommend!

[@AbbyCox]

YAASSSSSS

[@AbbyCox]

"Basting Queens! Young and Free of Pin-in-nniinngggggg* 💃🏻💃🏻👸🏻👸🏻

[@meeseification]

And pins are evil. They draw blood.

[@AM-os4ty]

@@meeseification - I have had this same problem forever with them. I thought I was the only person who didn't get how to stay away from the pointy ends

[@meeseification]

@@AM-os4ty pointy things love perforating me. You are not alone 😁

[@WandaKay4u2c]

I had NO IDEA needles had changed so much! I have been fighting with newer needles thinking that age sure does a number on your ability to hand sew. It never occurred to me that I was dealing with inferior tools. Thanks for the education! Will be purchasing proper needles right away... Getting a thimble too... Had always been told I should use one, but never saw the proper technique demonstrated like you do.... Who says you can't learn new tricks?

[@sonipitts]

Holy crap, that needle close-up. I had no idea there was so much difference in quality. No wonder I have so much trouble threading needles these days. ~glares in betrayal at plastic circle container of cheap needles~

[@indigohalf]

I should have known- the plastic container isn't well-made, either!

[@happyplaceknitsandsews1694]

I didn't know any better and bought the plastic circle cheap needles as well T_T

[@junecooper]

Yes, I also have the plastic circle container of cheap needles, but not so long ago I bought DMC needles and even if I couldn't see much difference (not with the naked eye), they felt SO different!

[@sonipitts]

@@junecooper It's amazing the difference good tools make!

[@sayuriando3379]

Those are needles I wouldn't touch.

[@yulebones]

I started teaching myself to sew this year, and I was just ranting to my spouse a few days ago about how hard it is to find good information about basic stuff like what makes a good needle, what we should look for with thread, etc. I'm so glad I found this! Thanks for making it.

[@AnimalVegetableMineral]

Re: basting instead of pinning; head explode. I thought hand sewing just...always...sucked. "Ah crap, caught on a pin. Ow, poked by a pin. Gah, I'm tangled again." Also, now I'm going to go through all of my needles. Before this video I thought, "it's pointy metal with a hole in it, how can they mess that up?" The decline in quality of literally EVERYTHING over the past few decades really, really, really blows.

[@AbbyCox]

Come over to basting & better needles! It will make everything soo much better!

[@TJtheBee]

Consumerism: the less quality, the more it needs replacing, the more you spend towards that company. There are VERY few things that are a single time purchase anymore. And then we realize how prices through the decades have gone UP instead of down......

[@stevezytveld6585]

@@TJtheBee And don't even get me started on the frustration that are the threaders...

[@catelynh1020]

I'm lucky that when i started hand sewing, i got my grandmother's sewing basket including everything in it.she bought stuff to sew with like 70 years ago and then never used most of it. Double checking the two needles i'm using right now and they look to be the higher quality ones. Her knowledge was only really enough for buttons and very small rips. My mother used iron on patches and knew the bare minimum, and i decided i don't like modern clothes and started sewing when a roommate had her sewing machine out to make a cosplay. I have a machine, but hand sewing is more relaxing for me and i can listen to netflix while i do it

[@bridgetthewench]

I basted gathers after this video. I'm adding ruffles to cutoff shorts, and did the first one using pins. Holy cannoli, the basted leg went so much faster than the pinned leg!

[@OriginalR69]

Many years ago, when I was young ( back in 1970's small town Australia) every pupil in my school was taught the basics of hand sewing once they entered roughly 3rd class or 4th class, from memory (about 9 or 10 years of age for those non-Australian readers ). We had a lovely teacher who taught us our basic stitches and really encouraged us to focus on improving our stitch quality, as beginners, before attempting anything else. She always said, as you have here, Abby, that getting the basics in place was a foundational skill, and from there all other skills could developed. Just like a lot of things in life, we all have to be able to crawl before we can walk! If we get our foundations in place, then everything else flows from there. Being able to undertake basic sewing projects , such as mending, darning, hemming and minor alterations is, I feel, an invaluable life skill. Shame learning the basics is still not part of our school curriculum anymore, as it's such a handy skill to have. Take care and keep up the great work, Abby! xx

[@mrsmorris265]

The hard part is that teachers cannot teach what they do not themselves know. As a teacher myself, I would love for the older generation to volunteer to come into my classroom and teach students these skills in small groups.

[@EmL-kg5gn]

I would have LOVED that as a kid!!! If you ask around you might be able to find people?

[@k_golly_g]

Ok, you convinced me. I'll try basting. I'm confused though. At what point do you bring in the big eye dropper thing with the rubber bulb on the end?

[@AbbyCox]

I had to read this 4 times to understand what you were saying...i think i need more coffee 😂

[@cedarwriter26]

Maybe you can use those to suck up the needles that get lost in the carpet.

[@k_golly_g]

It's a relief to know a pro is as confused about basters as I am! 😜

[@TJtheBee]

...oh, lord- I may be a king of puns, but when that one hit, it hit! XD

[@debbralehrman5957]

LOL

[@cvodthemod2103]

I am fortunate enough to be the only sewer left from a family of seamstresses Because of this I inherited so many supplies I rarely have to buy anything. Recently I was doing some organizing and found an entire box of stuff including never used needles dating back to the 19teens! What a jackpot! Thank you great grandma kite and Johnson. Great great grandma Griffin and grandma Jo. Miss you all so much.

[@nyxskids]

Note to beginners with low income... Do what you can with what you can get. And as you start to save money, save for better needles, thread, and fabric! (Because she's absolutely right... Yet life is... (Fill in the blank)) Yes, you're going to be frustrated if you need to do this, but if you're really looking to have more a more ethical, independently sustainable, long run cheaper wardrobe, and you can only really start with what you already have or can get on the cheap, think of it preparation for future sewing frustrations as you learn. Also made in China products are crap largely because of the working conditions. So definitely get better products in general when you can manage it and not feed into the system that makes sweat shops the only way to make affordable items. Last point... Recycle. If the crap needles (or anything) you wanna pitch can be recycled, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do recycle them. **** Edit for new info... Only recycle needles if your local recycling takes them. They will only take them if they mechanically sort the recycling. Safety for workers sorting by hand is extremely important. You can also recycle them into parts of crafts if you're so inclined.

[@bridgetthewench]

I would also recommend checking ebay. I got a TON of vintage needles for pretty cheap, and the quality is so much better than anything you'll find in the cheap needle packs.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

Sometimes you can get good quality stuff cheap, if you have access to an op shop (thrift store) with a sewing section. I’ve found high quality needles and thimbles there, very very cheap. Also, a heap of buttons, plenty of lace,, and older patterns. But apart from that, I’m using either polyester thread or the cotton thread that was my nana’s (because free is even cheaper than cheap). Because I just can’t justify spending the money on good thread just yet. It’s one of my eventual goals, especially as I find I’m doing a lot more hand sewing than I was when I started out.

[@e.s.r5809]

Save basting thread and any threads you unpick, if you can! It might be hard if you're adjusting a machine sewn garment and the thread can't be removed without cutting it, but if you can take out undamaged thread, pull it through a little beeswax to help prevent it tangling, wrap it round your fingers, and store it for later :)

[@e.s.r5809]

Oh, also! If you have expensive needles and they're becoming blunt, it's possible to sharpen them against a nail file and then polish them smooth again with toothpaste.

[@tigs7420]

@@e.s.r5809 wouldn't using an emery "strawberry" from your pin cushion be easier?

[@bethanya99]

Sew, I'm trying to teach myself to hand stitch via youtube, and I really appreciate you explaining the rational behind basting and how it boosts technique and efficiency. I'm halfway through my first ever project and that will really help me on my next few steps. Thank you Abby!

[@Soknik01]

Sew, I see what you did there. Clever way to begin a new thread!

[@PiscesVirago73]

Wow. I feel very lucky. I inherited my grandma’s sewing machine and full kit when I was 17. I have beautiful sewing needles in the packet from Sheffield UK, I think my Grandma bought them in the 50’s and never opened them.

[@HosCreates]

I too inherited a bunch of grandmas never been sewn with needles but from my friends grandmas and they didn't know what to do with all the stuff grandmas and aunties had horded

[@PiscesVirago73]

Amanda H I think those of us that appreciate sewing are very lucky It is definitely becoming, not just a lost art, but a lost basic skill. I have a Dr friend who pays $15 per button to have it sewn on by a tailor.

[@HosCreates]

@@PiscesVirago73 that's highway robbery! buttons only take 5min per each I get it if there are like a row of buttons,say 5 of them . I went to the tailor recently for a coat OI didnt want to screwup and he didn't even measure or stick pins in the garment so I just brought it home 0.0.

[@catercoz2491]

What treasures! Happy sewing. :-)

[@andrewbigelow1415]

Thanks so much for this! As an "accidental sewist" this was really useful to me. And please, don't sugar-coat it; tell us how you really feel about cheap needles!

[@lauramiller8400]

I wish people talked more about needles. I feel like that's the one area I know nothing. I have been working on these felt animal kits during my at home time and it's really helping with my neatness and precision in hand sewing. Also learning how important basting is. Felt stretches and slides all over the place if it's not basted.

[@Shorty24136]

Check out some quilters that do English paper piecing they are quite good at talking about needles - Sue Daley she has a few videos on the subject xx

[@flamelily1]

I highly recommend Mary Corbet - she focuses on embroidery, but her knowledge of fabrics, needles, threads etc is amazing. So many amazing resources on her website!

[@kyliecunningham8057]

My grandfather found a box of sewing things at an estate sale years ago and bought it for me- all of the needles I use have come from this! Multiple complete books of beautiful gold eye needles, and dozens upon dozens of loose needles. All perfect and sharp and untarnished. I love them.

[@DanielleStJohn]

Foolish as it now sounds, I hadn't really thought about the importance of quality needles. Thank you!

[@lajoyous1568]

I hadn't given needles that much thought until I tried to hand stitch a mask back in March & then realized that all my needles were tapestry needles. Not a sharp to be found in the box.

[@mouseluva]

I also hadn't given needle quality any thought, but it turns out that I never needed to because I already live in Europe and thus sew with decent ones. Yay :)

[@fiemy6888]

Rebecca Hurford I too live in Europe, and when I saw those first needles I looked like 😳😳 how can that even be sold? And BOUGHT?!?

[@cassievanbrunt7791]

@@fiemy6888 because, many of us just never knew. Mine aren't that bad, (now that I know to look) but I'll buy better in future.

[@dawndesu6863]

It's funny, because I was mandy my mom's dress this week. I started out with a fine needle and realized that I didn't like it and was frantically looking for my usual needle. I have the crappy China needles, too. I noticed when I received them that they weren't that good, but I thought I could hold on to them for an emergency type situation. You know, to carry in my purse

[@christinebryant9143]

I’m English - live in Yorkshire, England and thrilled to hear you recommend English needles. Thanks.

[@LaDivinaLover]

I feel like I’ve gotten VERY lucky with my free packs of assorted needles. I couldn’t tell you what brands they are now because they’re in a cushion but I just did a quick inspection and all of my needle eyes are very well finished and have held their points FOREVER. Lol

[@OneDirection2V]

Mine is too and I bought it in my local market. Its rusty now (after 7 years) in parts of the shaft but it is because I live in Lima where the humidity gets as high as 90%.

[@annamcnarin]

I inherited all my sewing stuff from my grandmother. I checked my needles & chuckled when I realized my Gram bought all good stuff- England, all of it. I've been sewing up dog toys and kids pockets with English embroidery needles. 😆

[@breannadyck3415]

This convinced me the needles i've been using lately (from one of those plastic circle things) are indeed garbage - they've actually been cutting through my thread as i'm sewing!

[@AbbyCox]

Flaming. Hot. Garbage!

[@cedarwriter26]

I've been using plastic circle needles too, and I wondered why I'd have times my thread somehow got lodged in the hole. The zoom lens reveals!

[@ragnkja]

If you suspect your needles are garbage, you’re probably right. The circumstantial evidence definitely points towards them being garbage.

[@Donteatacowman]

I think I've scrounged ALL of my needles and thread from dollar shops over the last decade. When I started embroidering, I wanted to use the full thread instead of separating into 6 strands, since the thread always gets snagged or torn or knotted that way. I had to specially buy a tapestry needle (huge eye, very dull). I'm like, I KNOW this isn't what I'm meant to do. But the only store in our town that carries sewing supplies didn't have anything I needed, so, eh... country girls make do?

[@tpauling09]

fun fact, on sewing machines, the needle's point wearing out isn't what is going to cause the most trouble, it's the eye with the constant motion of the thread. It's why you'll develop tension problems and thread breaks with an old needle on a sewing machine.

[@knittingEillets]

wow thanks! Now I know why my thread always broke the last time! I thought: I should change my needle - i think? (I'm a beginner) but then: Nah! for this little thing... it will be fine.... :-P

[@allizbest]

MIND BLOWN

[@goldengryphon]

@@knittingEillets Unless someone's already told you - change your sewing machine needle after every large garment, or 8 hours of sewing (cumulative or marathon doesn't matter.

[@emilyrln]

…unless I keep running over pins, in which case it might be the point wearing out first 😂 Worst is when the needle careens off of a pin and hits the plate instead of going through the hole.

[@leoklein25]

Can we get a "where to buy fabric"? I´m not living near a fabric district, so I would love to learn about some sellers on the interwebs where I can find good quality fabric, historically accurate or not.

[@bridgetthewench]

Likewise! I'm in Iowa, so all we have is Joann's and Walmart.

[@b.welborndressmaker5420]

She mentioned Burnley & Trowbridge for needles and threads...but they also have lots of fabric for historical clothing!

[@lyreparadox]

I've heard good things about Gray Lines Linen (if you're looking for linen) www.mcssl.com/store/gray-lines-linen-inc/apparel-linen

[@ReisigSeeds]

So much this. I’m in Kansas. our choices are: Hobby Lobby, Walmart, and JoAnn’s. Unless you make a 4 hour drive.

[@meredith7299]

I live near a large city (Cincinnati) and even I have to drive almost an hour across the city for an independent fabric store. And they don’t have much cotton or linen, they’re mostly bridal and upholstery fabrics.

[@masonforgach4149]

Im 22 year old man and i just picked up sewing its so fun and i like sewing my patches it soothes my brain thanks for the tips

[@FlybyStardancer]

This is sooooooo helpful. I'm currently basing down gathered skirt panels to a waistband because everything was slipping and sliding around so much that no amount of pins would help.

[@AbbyCox]

Yep! Basting makes life *sooo* much easier!

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I don’t get how anyone can just use pins for anything gathered. I pin (just enough to sort of keep it in place but I can still play around with it to even it out as I go) then I baste it’s to look nice, then I sew over it.

[@expatpiskie]

My mum taught me to always baste & this was reinforced in needlework classes at school. Fabric lies much flatter when basted which makes life a lot easier. Apart from anything else you don't have to keep stopping to pull the pins out, that goes for both hand and machine sewing.

[@miaschu8175]

I was also taught to baste at school. We only ever used a few pins for marking measurements, never to keep material together for sewing. My hand sewing is almost invisible and it's pretty strong. Unfortunately, I don't know how to make things from scratch, as I stopped needlework as soon as I could! I'm like a beginner, again.

[@Oldstudent42]

This is wonderful! I'm a historical interpreter for the early 19th century and I do a lot of hand sewing. I've also been sewing since the early 1970s. This FINALLY put things in an understandable manner.

[@SLynch007]

A, or should I say an, historical interpreter? I was just thinking how we needed people with those skills, especially in today's culture. And here you are! Who bad the foresight? Please tell me it was you!

[@pixelcat4187]

i gotta say, they were all super helpful (looking at you needles types) but for real, how to hold the needle when you sew was by far the most important for me. Tutorials usually teach the different stitching points, but never *how* to hold the needle!!! Which is also super important if you wanna be able to use your thimble efficiently too!! So yeah. how to how the needle, by far the best part!! Thank you Abby :3

[@ChannellCWalker]

I love these videos! I tossed 3 packs of needles I'd bought over the years. I was never taught to hand sew. I was 5 when I sat in a corner and mimicked the motions of sewing that I saw on a Looney Toons episode. In middle school, I took a Home Ec class where we made a quick pin cushion but mostly I was taught to use a sewing machine and a serger. Finding this little corner of the internet has been the best thing ever. I'm so glad that your viral video brought me here. Thank you for this video and the video on metal thimbles. I watched it and Bernadette's video on her leather thimble and I learned so much from both of you. From Bernadette, I learned that leather thimbles were a thing and from you, I learned about how thimbles should fit and that there is a thing as a tailor's thimble. With your powers combined, I was able to make my own leather thimble in the tailor's style. It fits so well and is so comfortable I forgot I was wearing it just around the house. I haven't even done any sewing with it yet. Thank you, thank you.

[@halmond9375]

Couple observations from beginner. 1. Good metal thimbles are hard to find. I can not tell how many shops I have gone trough with trying to find one that is shaped and sized so that it would be comfortable to wear. Prym that is European brand has one that is shaped like pyramid with flat top. I guess the idea is that it fits to as many as possible but that makes it super uncomfortable to wear longer. And seriously who has their finger shaped like that?? The ones that I bought had rim that came out enough to start to rub the next finger. That was easy to solve with pair of pliers to bend it down. Size is still bit a problem with that one but it at least is wearable. The hunt is going to continue with the try to find the good thimble. 2. Number ten needle is effing hard to find!! Apparently Finns doesn't like that size needle. So far I have found it only in one box with assortment of needles. I think there was five different sizes so only couple size ten needles. I think there was only one option from Clover even in the online store that I found in Finland that was specialized to sewing products. As said hard ones to find in this country. 3. Prym needles that are made in Czech republic are descent needles when it comes to quality. I haven't had any issues with them and the eyes are clean. They are carried in grocery stores in here and the embroidery needles that I have a lot, since I do embroidery, are good ones. I haven't had any complains with them so far. But that is European made brand so there is that. edit number 4. Smaller needles are actually better. I had hard time to believe this. I was in belief that the longer needles are somehow better and easier to control. Finally gave up and tried smaller needles and found out that those are for real easier to aim where you want them to go. So believe when it is told you that smaller needles are better lol. And lastly, start with small projects like pouches or masks that will get done in decent time. That makes it feel like it will not take life time from you to get things done and if you are not happy with the stitching quality it will not be a big problem since it is not something that you will wear years from now. It will work as a pouch that hold things that you need it to hold even if the stitches are not as neat as you want them to be.

[@m.maclellan7147]

Here in the U.S. I bought about 10 thimbles fairly cheeply on EBay. They arrive in a few days. I wasn't sure my size, so I figure a mix should find something that works ?! I went with metal, used. All kinds of decorative ones on there, but most don't look like they actually are anything but decoration.

[@halmond9375]

@@m.maclellan7147 I have bought three so far. One I left straight to the store because it was shaped like round pyramid with flat top. That thing hurt just to try on. But so far all of them have had some issues when wearing them. That is why I thought that I want to check the antique type shops first to see if they have second hand ones from the time those were norm to be used. I think I will check the ebay also though. I have to say that I didn't think that thimbles were so tricky things lol.

[@sayuriando3379]

I'm from germany and I have only seen Pym needles. I think they have some in size 10. I have currently a set that goes up to 9 but I know they have a bigger sets.

[@rachellundberg535]

When I am sewing the most I find a leather thimble works best, and luckily you can hand sew that to your own specifications. If you want extra protection sandwich a small piece of metal between the leather layers at the finger tip. Fits like a glove

[@barberton3695]

@@rachellundberg535 thata great idea!

[@evb1601]

I learned hand sewing, crocheting, knitting, and so on as a child. How fortunate was I? What I did not learn is about needles. You have changed my life!!! Thank you, Abby.

[@margaretmyres5626]

This was very informative had no idea about hand sewing needles. Also you have a hypnotic effect on my kitten she watched you again with me and settled down for a nap. Except when you were actually stitching she was fascinated. I'm guessing in a previous life she sewed. Thanks for all the information you are sharing.

[@redxrb]

This entire video blew me away! I was always self conscious of my hand sewing technique (or lack thereof) because it always looked messy, no matter how hard I tried. Now I know exactly why and now I'm looking forward to utilizing these tips; especially the basting tip! I hate pinning hems because it takes up so much of my time that I would rather spend actually sewing. Thank you!

[@TheMetatronGirl]

I always wondered why my mom was so specific about her needles!! 🤯🤯🤯 Though, as an avid knitter, it should have occurred to me that all needles are not created equal. Basting, on the other hand, I knew. If you’re using pins while hand sewing, you may as well try sewing cacti together. Technique first!! Yaaaaaassssss!!! All skills are meant to be taught this way...like touch typing, for example! I’m not certain why we forget this when we teach ourselves new skills? Great tips. I’ve recently acquired a gorgeous corset pattern...I’m thinking it’s time for a hand sewing project!! My machine will be grateful for the vacation, I’m sure. Love, light, and blessings to you and all your doggos & peoples.

[@cinemaocd1752]

About to embark on my first all-hand sewing project and this was incredibly useful. My sewing kit is made up of a lot of hand me downs and there is definitely a lot of garbage thread but the needles are better than what I could buy now because they are 50 plus years old and haven't been out of the packet.

[@riannedeinum3458]

Still getting used to wearing a thimble. But what a difference did wearing one make in the sewing proces. That video came right on time for me.

[@meowyimeow]

Thanks for tips, Abby, they’re helpful to even this experienced sewist. I’m still not comfortable using an all metal thimble but I love the one I’m using now: it’s silicone with a metal tip (the brand might be Clover). After sewing thimble-free for many years I found I had to, in a way, relearn to sew using a thimble. It was frustrating at first but well worth the extra effort and time in the beginning.

[@l.baughman1445]

Tulip needles (Japan) are also lovely. I’m gutted John James outsourced. That’s just wrong. My packages say made in England. Thank GOD! England, take your skilled manufacturing work back!!!

[@dianesawyerdooley4424]

I'm sewing with a Tulip needle right now and I LOVE it.

[@marshaandini4691]

I also use Tulip needles. I'm glad my home ec teacher reference this needle as our primary go to because they are affordable for us as school sell it. Regal darning needles (japan made) also good for regular sewing.

[@lenemotts]

Tulips are heavenly to sew with!

[@marshaandini4691]

@@lenemotts YES !!!

[@aj1807]

Yeah, it sucks that companies have to outsource. There's apparently some sort of skilled manufacturing subsidy for at least some trades in England; I know someone who is buying a set of copper type (for foil stamping, not letterpress) and it's cheaper to get a case of metal type made and shipped overseas from the UK to the US than it is to buy from an American manufacturer. Sorry to hear your favorite needles had a quality drop :(

[@annguglielmino8989]

ALL. OF. IT. I am 62 and my mother showed me how to sew when I was a young'un. I was never happy with my machine or hand sewing and gave it up decades ago. Till I found you, Bernadette, Morgan etc on KZbin. Now I want to sew again and do it right. The info in this video is 100% what I needed to hear, 100% stuff I didn't know (except the thimble info, I just bought me a new leather one) and will be 100% followed. Thank you Abby!

[@amiejo]

To be honest, this video and Nicole’s video about fabric, has collectively increased my knowledge SIGNIFICANTLY. I’ve been sewing for years, although knit and modern wear are more my jam, I am gleaning so much from watching all the Costubers, and my confidence and finishing techniques are getting better. I’m now choosing projects that allow me to practice what I’m learning. Thank you Auntie Abby!!

[@Riderules73]

Can you share what Nicole video you’re relating to? Total beginner here…

[@vanessar.6085]

I'm glad I came upon this channel. I'm learning to sew on my own, because my mom never really taught me (I was a bad student, though. I wanted to hit the ground running). I'm unlearning, learning, and relearning so much. It's a bit overwhelming at times. But I'm also gaining patience in myself and skill level.

[@catherinerw1]

I'm enjoying using up the mercerised cotton thread that came in my grandmother's sewing box for hand-sewing, mostly 40 weight, and on wooden rolls (which tells you how old it must be!). Mostly UK made Dewhurst's Sylko :-) (And yes, I'm wearing a thimble while typing...)

[@AbbyCox]

Yes! I will also use some vintage thread - I have a huge stash that I purchased years ago, and some of it is still useable!

[@catherinerw1]

@@AbbyCox Thought of another tip... good lighting! Particularly as the northern hemisphere heads into autumn/fall. Something for us ageing types (I'm 50 next birthday, certainly don't feel it though!!)

[@lizcademy4809]

Before you use vintage thread, do a pull test on it. I have a lot of old thread, from spools I had to buy for junior high school home ec classes (45 years ago) to leftovers from my step-grandfather's stash (he was a tailor). Some of the thread is good, some falls apart if you give it a hard look. I use the latter for basting. Off to check my needles ... I have some well-kept vintage needles, lovingly kept in original packaging in a closed drawer, some new from the Big Box Fabric & Craft store.

[@catherinerw1]

@@lizcademy4809 that's one reason why I only use it for hand-sewing non-structural components (like hemming, felling seams etc.). I use the machine with modern polyester for the structural stuff!

[@bridgetthewench]

I *love* sewing with vintage thread! When making face masks, I sew the seams on the machine with modern thread for speed, then topstitch with vintage thread for precision. I also "wax" it with lip balms that aren't moisturizing enough for my preferences, and it glides so smoothly through the fabric.

[@silversprout8974]

I’m starting hand sewing soon and this video was VERY useful. I’m a long time knitter/crocheter and agree that tools make all the difference. Thank goodness you’ve offered that basting advice, because pinning everything is a nightmare. Thank you!

[@isabelleblanchet3694]

Those cheap needles with raggedy edges around the hole, they cut your thread while you are trying to sew, and then you think that it's you who is not skilled. In sewing, weather it is hand or machine, quality is always important. Quality of needle, quality of fabric, quality of thread, quality of machine, etc.

[@love2000amglam]

I bet this is my problem. Also have cotton thread.

[@isabelleblanchet3694]

@@love2000amglam cotton thread is one of the weakest.

[@terrichicosky3166]

I was taught how to sew by my Mom a lifetime ago, but I have to admit, that the Costuber community has taught me more than I could have imagined. Many thanks.

[@Emnms68]

Me:*basting fabric while watching new video* Abby: Baste your fabric! Don’t argue with me Me: I AM, Abby. I am I swear!

[@maribrown1361]

Holy heck!! I never thought about the quality of hand needles being an issue before. I've been watching many sewists on y olde KZbin & learned about threads (although I've not begun that investment process yet), but never hand needles!! That's an easy place to start & an easy gift for my adult daughters who are just beginning their sewing journey! Thank you!!

[@oregondrivingadventures7506]

Abby, you have given me permission to go through the needles and toss them out with wild abandon! Seriously I found several sleeves of assorted needles when I moved. I saved them because well one doesn't just throw out sewing supplies! I'm going to get rid of all but the very best and order better ones. This video was very informative, thank you.❤

[@darryelperry5676]

I love the "pinkie trick". It really helps and the kids are going to love when I am doing Living History. That is all I do, sit and sew and talk about my ancestors. You would be surprised how interested kids are in the fact that I can hand sew a dress.

[@lolajl]

Now I'm going to have to go through my tin box, and weed out the bad needles and taking a good, sharp look at the labels in the back. And hold on to the needle packs from the past. And when I feel like going to antique stores again, look for size 3 thimbles and old needle packs.

[@HosCreates]

I have friends who do light sewing. They inherited sewing supply stashes like needles, pins, buttons, zippers an more from their grandmas, aunties etc who sewed because they are the only ones who do sew. They called me and asked if I wanted some stuff after several weeks if weeding out crappy crepe and polyester fabrics. Ended up with some nice needles I am very grateful!

[@sillyellie296]

Definitely going to be going through my needles tonight! I have tried to stay away from the large unlabeled multi-packs, but have some that aren’t with packaging and likely need to go! I also just bought some cotton thread because I only had polyester. I’m likely still going to use it to use it up and not waste, but may need to look for other thread going forward. I’m also getting out of using polyester fabric despite so many pretty patterns and trying to go with natural fabrics so switching the thread to match! I got a thimble after your other video (ergonomic plastic not metal because the only metal ones I found at big name craft store were terrible quality and I couldn’t actually try it on in the packaging) and LOVE IT! THANK YOU! My husband laughs at me because 9 times out of 10 I completely forget I have it on and then I go to cook or something and realize it. It is sooooooo comfortable. I knew basting was used to hold things in place in troublesome areas or to be able to easily see things on both sides of the fabric, but mind blown on the using it instead of pins. I hate pins and the way the fabric buckled under them and thought about getting some of the sewing clips, but basting seems so much quicker than taking pins or clips on and off repeatedly. Wonderful tips for a beginner hand sewer!

[@srkra_]

Watching this and felling a seam finish with no thimble, a dritz needle & cotton thread and it's pinned down I'M SORRY ABBY

[@elaynegiahoover436]

At least you're not using polyester thread?

[@els1f]

@@elaynegiahoover436 Elayne is definitely a bright-sider 😋

[@bondee5865]

🤣😂

[@kimberlypiter8718]

Once again! You have given me so much useful information! I hate when I have a needle I'm sewing with and I don't understand why it's so hard to sew with. Thank-you!!! And with so many threads too, you gave us important information to incorporate into better sewing with better superior products. Plus, the hints to "just do it" basting!!! You are helping so many!

[@femkebeernaert]

Yes on everything you said. My sewing education has been with a focus on quality hand tailoring first and then later for industry sewing. While I can sew good quality without pins or basting, my results are better with pins and BEST with basting. Basting gives you so much control. Why use pins (or nothing) to save time and then need to reach for the seam ripper to fix your mistake...

[@Marialla.]

LOL! As they say, "never time to do it right, but always time to do it over".

[@cindypierce6269]

This was a great video, and reminded me of something I learned from my mother. She would always get on me about how long my thread was. She always said to not make your sewing thread longer then the length of your forearm from fingertip to elbow. Only make the thread longer if you work from the middle of the thread going in both directions. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, it is amazing how much basic knowledge and skill has been lost when it comes to sewing.

[@cedarwriter26]

Oh wow, I just started resorting to basting a few hours before this! I got tired of being jabbed every time I tried on my pieces and hearing the ominous ting of pins falling off into the abyss.

[@stevezytveld6585]

Mister Husband has learned to be terrified of that sound...

[@cedarwriter26]

My Mister Husband keeps calling out, "Found a pin!" from various places in the apartment.

[@BiologicalClock]

Okay, I'm glad I'm not the only one with a VERY annoyed man in the house yelling "You're still dropping needles everywhere!" anytime he finds yet another pin on the floor.

[@jyang1711]

Thanks for the tips. I am a male over 70. I love sewing. My mother was a dressmaker.,good at every function, embroidery, making dresses, shirts etc,and NEAT.

[@TJtheBee]

My biggest takeaway: be more patient, and get actual good quality needles and thread. That’ll be a B&T purchase in the near future, hopefully... Also, consumerism: not even once.

[@AM-os4ty]

Basting. Don't forget basting.

[@TJtheBee]

@@AM-os4ty Oh yeah, basting too. Did that tonight and not having to fight pin was a DREAM.

[@winterdavis4919]

Dear Costume Auntie Abby, I am going through my needles now and ordering new, actually good needles! Thank you for continuing to help all of us improve our sewing!

[@joiadevita]

Okay you're the first and only person to convince me that basting isn't a giant waste of time.

[@moonwatcher4049]

Abby: if you happen to read this- I really appreciate this video. It is a perfect crash-course refresher for me. Thank you! I was raised by my grandmother. Like most young boys, I was rough on my clothes, and she would mend or patch when the holes and rips happened. I would sit and watch her work, captivated by the in and out of the needle drawing the thread through my jeans. I guess she eventually got tired of doing it, so when I was about 9 years old she taught me some sewing basics for me to do it myself. Fast forward 40 years, I thought I’d forgotten most of it, and I was looking at my work pants with a hole in the knee, and not wanting to buy a new pair, thought to myself ‘I can fix that’ and got to it My question is this: how do I go about choosing thread size and material? The pants I’m working on are like jeans, but a heavy cotton canvas, and being subject to wear and tear, I thought I should use a heavier thread. I went with a nylon upholstery thread (the only one on the racks at the chain craft store close to me) which matched the color and thickness of the stitching. I wanted to use a cotton thread because of the canvas, but they all seemed too thin to me. When I learned to sew, all I knew was use the color I needed- there was zero thought on material or thickness

[@tigereyemusic]

I couldn’t believe the difference when I first tried Bohin sharps size 10 needles, instead of the random packs of crap. Now all my needles are Bohin, other than my clover sashiko needles.

[@autumn.redhawke]

I've always wanted to improve my hand sewing since I was a little girl. These tips are genius. Thank you!

[@matey9596]

This came JUST IN TIME for me! I have recently started learning how to hand sew, but I’ve had so many questions and you just answered a bunch of them! (Time to go buy some proper needles). I learned so much, thank you!!!

[@kookiezinski7969]

I'm researching, just about to begin my first historical costuming adventure. So happy I found your channel. I have 20 yo hand sewing needles in the round plastic thingie, all cotton thread, and have never hand basted anything. I think you just saved my dress's life.

[@equineohmy]

Absolutely the best sewing advice I've ever had. Confidence is higher. Thank you!

[@DaisyByDesign]

THANK YOU My hand sewing has improved so much just by following these tips!!! I've always sewn by hand but it's been a mess before! I'm shocked by how small my stitches are and how neat they are!

[@daniellecharland-gruhzit1177]

Thanks, Abby. I will try the silk thread! And my husband has come home with so many amazing estate sale finds in sewing tools, I'll have to check to see if I have any of those needles you recommend. I wouldn't be surprised. So many were packaged in vintage packaging that I never heard of before. And they are waaay better than the needles of "top brands" here in the US.

[@staceylynnwells]

I've only recently gotten EXTREMELY serious about hand sewing and I am trying to glean as much information as possible. This is by far one of the best I've come across so far, with tips that I know will help me along the way! Thank you!

[@FromtheMPR]

I admit I never thought about basting before with my hand sewing. Thanks for the epiphany!

[@sonipitts]

I've definitely taken to basting with machine sewing as well (either hand-basting or machine basting). It is just soooo much less stress when doing the final seam/hem to not have to be constantly stopping every few inches to pull pins out so you don't sew over them, not having to worry about the fabric shifting along the length of the pin, not getting stabbed by forgotten or hidden pins and not having to worry about a pin catching on and damage the fabric (stares angrily at pulled thread in my current pinned project brought out of time-out storage that I'm going to have to painstakingly finagle back into place because of course it's a delicate lightweight knit whose thread will break immediately if I put too much strain on it).

[@meloncornets3034]

Love this. I got a sewing box and machine from my husband's aunt. When organizing the box, I sorted out the needles and pins. I mean, throwing out whole packs of needles. My husband asked why I was doing this. I said "Where do I put my pins?" Pointing to my face. Plus, this was a senior's box. Some of these needles could have been older than me. I used John James needles since it was the only brand besides Clover in my town's fancy enbroidery shop. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! My first needles were dollar store. Now that I know better, I start the year cleaning my machine and clear out my old needles and pins. Then I spend a hefty amount buying new machine and hand sew needles.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

In regard to thimbles- I got a metal thimble and it changed my life! Also, I’m currently trying out using two thimbles, with the additional thimble on my ring finger. I found it getting really sore from using it, especially when working with small/narrow pieces. I just use the crappy silicone thimble for my ring finger at the moment, and it seems to be working for me so far. Funny thing is forgetting that I’m wearing a thimble. I tend to do that a lot.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I should also mention I had a hard time finding a good metal thimble- the local sewing place near me tends to only stick super cheap stuff from China, and the grocery stores, while the stock some sewing stuff, don’t seem to carry decent metal thimbles anymore. My solution was going to an op shop (thrift store) with a good sized sewing section. Two bucks!

[@amberhuls3359]

Fully confess to hating hand sewing. UNTIL watching the thimble vid. I’ve been sewing for 20 years using what my granny taught me (thank you, Nanny), but she only knew what she knew, and I’ve been too proud admit I knew even less. So, yeah... thimbles and needles and basting, oh my! what a difference those simple little things make. Thank you. Please keep sharing the useful, concise info with the highly entertaining delivery. 🥰

[@emilia.s]

The basting is something i really need to focus on more. Then again, I need actually get back to sewing my cape thats been laying out on the dinner table since March. 😅

[@georgeallan1952]

Emilia S you have no idea how happy that makes me... I’ve had a half decorated kitchen since March. I started in lockdown when I needed to keep busy and well... still not done 😬

[@Robin-rk2hf]

You prompted me to finally get me some new needles 😂 I've been sewing too long now to still be using those plastic ring needles... With you 100% on basting!! Also just saves you from so many incidents of getting pricked by rampant needles and it's sooo much easier to hold in a good position vs having to dodge stiff pins left and right.

[@michelelommasson5970]

Thank you for an awesome video! I love watching another needle and thread snob at work. Such great suggestions! My go to needle has been a 10 embroidery for years. It works for me, and I love it. I love it so much that I order in bulk. My last order was John James; you are right, not as good. I throw out probably one in six, because the eye cuts the thread. The next time I order, I will try Colonial. Thanks for the tip. So very valuable. I hate it when things I depend on change. 😟 Also, basting, so true! Yes the thread gets caught as you sew, but the pins also distort the fabric and cause unevenness in the seam or hem. As for tensioning, I wondered if I actually did it. Since hand sewing is something I’ve been doing since before I can remember (can you say, “passion for sewing?”), I honestly didn’t know. Of course I do! So happy! I never see others breaking thread with their hands and testing the thread’s tensile strength. I thought I was the only one who had to test every type of thread in that way. But you do too. ❤️ I still have much to learn, I’m a sewing machine nerd, and sometimes hand sewing takes a backseat. I can see that I can improve my speed. I’m happy about that. Thank you SEW much for the valuable information!!💕

[@mom2natopotato]

Thank you so much for all the information you share. Thanks for taking the time. I'm 55 and still learning.

[@ambrosiata]

I had to stop everything and look at my neddles and they are all perfect, even the cheap kit ones. They were all made in Europe. Also, if you buy Gütterman tread second hand sometimes they still has neddles in them, in the spole that you can open.

[@e.t.b.1580]

Thank you so much for the tips!! These are excellent. I 100% can confirm that basting helps everything, and that the handsewing technique demonstrated here is very efficient once mastered. Thread also can make a huge difference not only in the quality of the finished product, but also in how much pleasure can be derived from the actual hand sewing process. However, I also think it might be useful to mention that the handsewing technique demonstrated here doesn't necessarily apply to most forms of embroidery. I definitely have made the mistake of using handsewing-ish techniques (inserting the needle at an angle and "scooping" fabric) on my early embroidery projects, and while it was pretty fast, the final look of the stitches wasn't very even. Most hand embroidery is immensely improved -- and I mean your stitches magically start looking amazing and straight and even -- by keeping one's needle perpendicular to the fabric while pushing it through, and also by keeping the fabric incredibly taut, which isn't possible while using a "scooping fabric" method.

[@Sky-bx9mn]

Thank you! I'm one of those self-taught types you were talking about and I never learned most of this stuff, so this is great to know. (I even used to think thimbles went on the thumb, since the word sounds like thumb.)

[@redwitch95]

I was so worried when you advised against needle multipacks, but then you said English needles are the best. Cue my surprised face, because I'm in England and my multipack from Korbond UK. I've been using their sharps for my hand sewing since, well, the information packet on the back recommended sharps for it. I even double checked my needle eyes and they're just as nice and smooth as the good needles you showed. Nice to know I didn't waste my money!

[@jayc9345]

Oh, you didn't talk about the bane of my existence and my first major mistake as a beginner - self-threading needles. Or maybe that's just because I got the cheap ones made in China because I still didn't know any better. Either way, trying to not shred either my fabric or my thread for my first couple little projects was An Actual Nightmare.

[@AbbyCox]

😬😬😬😬😬😬😬

[@ragnkja]

Jay C I have never come across good “self-threading” needles. Admittedly, I haven’t looked, but the only ones I’ve tried seemed to either weaken or even cut the thread, or not hold on to it.

[@NouriaDiallo]

Oh snap! I was starting to consider those since I'm getting into aging eye condition territory... Plus seeing Morgan Donner rethreading à thousand time to bury the thread ends of the boning channels in her 17th century staysvideo! Seemed a more sustainable solution than a plastic threader. Bohin started making that kind of needles, though, so maybe they are nice enough if well made?

[@steampunkpixie2643]

Something I find helps are needle threaders. I have some that I think are copper but avoid the tin ones as they are rubbish. A tip I got from a friend is a stitch picker is also handy.

[@jayc9345]

@@NouriaDiallo One decent-quality threader, even if it's plastic, can last many years if you treat them well and repair when needed rather than replacing, and is more sustainable than the amount of ruined thread, weakened fabric, and frustration from trying to use any self-threading needles I've tried (more than I care to admit). It's when you get into the super cheap, meant-to-be-disposable threaders that I think sustainability becomes a problem.

[@ceciliavaldes3159]

OMG! The tip about keeping the tension and how to position the fabric is life changing. I’ll be rewatching and pausing and rewinding endlessly!!! Thanks a million!

[@wokares]

THANK YOU! I‘d honestly LOVE to get into handsewing more but. just. as a very visual person I feel like there‘s just SO little information out there?? (that isn‘t in old books that make me want to cry) (or i just haven‘t found it yet??) So this is lovely and wonderful and I‘m so happy right now

[@aurorapapillon4883]

Thank you 😊 I really appreciate you talking about how to identify quality thread and needles and basting! I just didn't even know about basting. I'm an absolute beginner so this video was gold. P. S Would love a video on projects you recommend for practising techniques on, especially historical projects.

[@extrae905]

This video is super helpful in terms of understanding modern threads and needles. Thanks, Abby!

[@kendall7041]

after a few moons of voraciously consuming costuber videos, I've decided to embark on my first hand-sewing project (i simply must make the shirt Bernadette has previewed) so this video found me in perfect timing, thanks so much for your entertaining teachings!!

[@AngelDivinity111]

I just found a bunch of random thimbles at the thrift store and finally have a thimble in my size :) so excited to use it properly

[@josieojeda7235]

I've been hand sewing for many years since I was 6 yes old before I saved up enough to buy my own sewing machine. My dad taught me a few basics on hand sewing & I self taught myself all these 5 tips you mentioned. Hand sewing was the only way I sewed anything since I was a child. I started making my own barbie clothes as a kid & used sewing with my multi media with my crafting & hemming my own clothes and fixing small snags & tears. I too am very picky with kind of needles & thread I use. I have my own fast sewing rhythm & a few other tricks up my sleeve. I had no idea my basic fast rhythm had a name. (basting) lol!! . You did a great job in explaining important hand sewing basics. Good to know I've been doing things right all these years. Not bad for a self taught child that I was. :)

[@rae3859]

This was so helpful!! Especially about the needles

[@m.maclellan7147]

I have an old "tin" coffee can that I throw away "sharps" in.

[@bridgetthewench]

I've started doing this as well, it's such a good idea, thank you!

[@CathyHay]

When you realise how much you didn't know! I actually had never figured out the difference between betweens and sharps and embroidery needles. Thank you!!

[@StephanieCanada]

Amazing tips! I have been pin-centric most of my life, but on my Ms.Frizzle dress I finally basted something and it went so much faster. Also, fully agree that modern needles are crap! But I have packets from the 50’s that were never used, so I am still set.

[@65pinkrosesYT]

Omg what perfect timing! I’m about to start my first real project (a wool cape) and I’m going to hand sew it so I appreciated every tip! Time to get some nice needles and silk thread!!!

[@ladytaliastorm8882]

As to the tips - I have a cool leather thimble a friend made for me. So that one aside, the one that "blew my mind" (so to speak) was the tip on sewing needles! I have been sewing for years - just now getting into hand sewing (love it) - but I did not know this about the needles... thank you!! Also the tip dealing with threads was very informative, including the part as to "why" you want to wax your linen thread. I appreciate how you clarified this for me. Oh, I promise to baste from now on, lesson learned 😁

[@aigocharisma]

A fellow Reno-ite! Thank you for making this video. I'm excited to start making things and start my historical costuming journey! I've been binging your channel lately, and it has gotten me seriously hyped -especially knowing that there are people in my community with a passion for historical dress like me.

[@Ompe8]

This was so helpful. Never would have thought that there was a quality issuse re hand needles. I'm going to go inspect my needle now. Thanks!!

[@bayoutown1990]

I do a lot of hand sewing and have for decades. Star cotton thread is the ONLY thread I use. I LOVE it! It is very strong. I also sew on a Singer treadle machine and use the same thread. I used to use the cheap threads from places like the dollar stores and Walmart because it was all I could afford. Once I discovered Star cotton thread, my whole sewing life changed and made all the difference in the world.

[@ethanthroop7300]

I just started hand-sewing something this is the exact perfect time for this to come out

[@tiffanytomasino335]

I will definitely have to revisit this video when I’ve finished scraping my brain back together, it’s been a long week for me. You are super helpful and much appreciated as I am in fact teaching myself to hand sew. Thank you for sharing!

[@JaleaWard]

I am so saving this for the needle section alone, which needle is one of those questions that has driven me crazy trying to find an answer!