How to save time on your sewing projects for beginners - 3 STEPS (2022)

[@AnitabyDesign]

GET YOUR SEWING PROJECT CHECKLIST ➡️ anitabydesign.ck.page/503b0d5924 Let's optimize our sewing time. WooHoo!!! 🤗💕👏🏾

[@lynnhufstetler3825]

The link is not active

[@AnitabyDesign]

@@lynnhufstetler3825 Thank you so much for letting me know. I've corrected the link. 💕

[@francinedanforth572]

Thank you for the check list

[@patriciabarnes3582]

Please make a video about how to measure your pattern! It would be so helpful! Thanks for all you do and God Bless 🙏🏾

[@ellaingram4298]

This video is crazy valuable. I've been sewing for a long time and it literally never occurred to me to bulk sew seams for clothing, even though I do this for quilting literally every day. Thanks for such great content, Anita.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh my goodness, you're very welcome. I had to laugh when you said you do it for quilting "every day." It's a total game changer with garment sewing. 🤗

[@kathywebb7921]

Thank you, Anita. I've been sewing/quilting/crafting/embroidering for more than 50 years. Your tips & videos are not just for beginners, but all levels of sewing. I've added several skills from your videos....especially using knits.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hiiii Kathy! Thank you so much. That really blesses my heart to know that experienced SEW Sisters are receiving value from my content too. I appreciate you.

[@6chickensinstcharles]

Thank you Anita! I love the scene of you with tea enjoying your pattern instructions :) this is something that’s been critical for me in rehabbing my chemo brain; reading comprehension. At first I’d cry through pattern instructions but now I enjoy that special time to slow down and read, then think, then do. I really appreciate your encouraging instructional help !

[@suek7086]

My chemo brain really slows .e down.

[@olive5890]

Loved seeing you reading the pattern and drinking tea ❤ thanks for these tips!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@marydiamond3322]

I love the basket idea. I can’t tell you how many times I started a project and have to stop to hunt down an item I need

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh, Mary, I'm so glad to hear that you found that tip helpful. 💕

[@cheekywun2]

Hi Anita, I'm a beginner sewer, and I just wanted to thank you for these wonderful instructional video's. They're so clear and concise without rambling on for too long. Your videos are giving me hope that I will become a proficient sewer, and not just have purchased a sewing machine, try a few projects and then give up due to inexperience and frustration. I will be utilizing your PDF Project List Checklist for all of my projects, until I'm proficient at them, but will definitely still use it for the more complicated ones (as I'd like to progress into period costume making some day in the future). The idea of creating a Muslin first is brilliant, especially when I'm a newby and for when I'm working with expensive material. It will also assist me greatly with getting the fitting correct, as I'm one size larger in my top section, than I am in my bottom section. Which is why I wanted to start sewing my own clothes in the first place, at the age of 55! lol. The Muslin probably isn't disillusioned

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yay, Karen! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video and find that the checklist will be helpful. You've got this! Have fun along your journey into sewing. I'm very happy to have you here.

[@tanaisagibson7138]

Thank you for the time, effort and energy you put into this post. It's so useful!😁💜

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome! I'm glad you found it useful.

[@amysheridan4496]

Another very good video, especially the “why” question! Another thing I try to do is cut out more than one project at time. Cutting is time consuming and space intensive, so if I have time I cut more than one thing. I also keep a list of projects to complete and to plan ahead. Thanks Anita!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, that's a great tip too, Amy! I need to do that more because when I have it's so satisfying to just pull out a project that's already to go. I used to create project kits actually. It was awesome.

[@audreylewis56]

Anita, excellent, as always! You hit it out of the park for me with the very first question..."Why are you sewing this project?". In truth, that is a question we should ask ourselves about any undertaking. Why am I reading this book? Why am I knitting this project? Why am I taking this trip? I find myself getting sucked into doing things that is the latest big project. I will have to make this a permanent question in my daily life. "Why am I...?"

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh my goodness, Audrey! I'm so glad you resonate with that first question. And I love that you're asking yourself these questions in life period. I started asking myself this question as I began to rebuild my life after my husband's death. I found myself continuing to do things that I used to do that no longer served my lifestyle, simply out f habit. Since I implemented that question into my life, I don't do ANYTHING I don't want to do and have no problem saying no to invitations I receive. 😂 My life and time on this earth is precious and I refuse to waste it living out of alignment with who I am now.

[@angelajackson6801]

You are such an inspiration.

[@nikkijohnson552]

You so elegantly present good info! I like all your videos and your results!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much.

[@myrealtorjanie]

Love your channel. Love your videos and you're delightful! Janie in Texas

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much, Jane.

[@PMcC-qy8jc]

I love everything about you! Your love for Jesus, passion for sewing, knowledge, free videos, beautiful face and cute hair - everything!!🎉. I’m a brand new sewer in my 50s and I’m so grateful for you sharing 🎉 Thank you!! 🫶🏻🥰💕

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh, thank you so much! It's always so nice to meet a fellow 50+ sister in my community. I'm really happy to have you here. 💕

[@hewmor]

Thank you again Miss Anita! I'm getting ready to sew McCall's 7386 pattern and needed this to drum up the courage to get started. Thanks again!!

[@catherineb6565]

@hewmor which M7386 view are you doing!? Your project will turn out great. Hope you enjoy wearing it!

[@hewmor]

@@catherineb6565 Hi! I'm going to attempt to do view c!

[@catherineb6565]

@@hewmor great choice! Perfect for any summer activity ☀️ happy sewing!!

[@hewmor]

@@catherineb6565 thank you! 😊

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh, yes! I'm so glad you found encouragement here. Have fun sewing your project.

[@annguglielmino8989]

I chuckled at the Why are you sewing this project? Cuz I have nothing to wear!😂. I agree with organization being key. I have two sewing stations in two different rooms: one for sewing my clothes and one for sewing bags and wallets for business. (I live alone 😊) Both have all the tools. These are great tips. I never have done a muslin but I will start because as a rather large woman, fit is an issue. So is buying a pattern because a much smaller KZbinr loves it. As always, Anita, great info presented elegantly and precisely. Thank you😊

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, thank you so much. I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed the video.

[@vanessad410]

Thank you for your time it is much appreciated.

[@yvonnelee5766]

Anita, I am so glad you posted this video. I have been sewing for only 2 years, and I was just thinking that when am I going to sew a garment with a new pattern and have it fit and look well the first time? I almost always have to sew a garment twice and the second one comes out great, but the first edition always has something wrong with it, so I have to make adjustments to it , or I sew it differenly. I waste fabric this way. So it's nice to see an experience sewer like yourself do a muslin and you make sure it fits and you make your adjustments before your sew your garment with the fabric you intend to use. Now I dont feel so bad about my sewing ability. I thought all experience sewers just made their garments and they fit and look good. Now, I know it is a process. I have wasted so much fabric in the past, now I will do a muslin like you described before I sew my actual garment. I have material I purchased for a muslin from Amazon but that can be pricey too. I think I will head over to Goodwill and buy some sheets on the cheap to use as muslin material. And it's nice to see that sometimes you dont follow the directions on the pattern and you may sew the garment in a different sequence that is recommended on the pattern. I have been doing this too, because sometimes I dont understand the pattern and why they recommend you do something one way and I am thinking it can be done another way that is easier. So I guess I am right on track with my sewing journey and learning new things. I feel much better about my sewing skills now that you posted this video. Thank you so much.

[@AnitabyDesign]

This makes me so happy, Yvonne! Yes, you are on the right track. Keep learning and enjoying your sewing journey.

[@daraharper2003]

You always give Great information!

[@plentymangoes1231]

I love listening to you and seeing your processes. That sewing space is so beautiful and inspiring. Thank you for the tips.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@TheBLGL]

Thank you for all your hard work. I subbed after I heard the part about not following trends and finding colors, styles, patterns, etc. that suit you. I’ve been sewing for about 5 months and I didn’t even realize that it was a thing that sewists just follow online trends like the fashion community, maybe because I wanted to learn to sew to I can fix my own clothes, alter thrifted clothes, and up cycle thrifted clothes. I despise fast fashion, and seasonal fashion in general. I love classic clothes that are timeless and always in style, and am tired of giving my money to unethical and environmentally damaging businesses. Since I found this page because of a sew along of a pencil skirt that was recommended to me, which is a beautiful, classic skirt to make that never goes out of “style,” I think I’m in the right place. Plus no annoying editing tricks like snapping her fingers and the clothes are cut, just practical editing and advice. Commenting so the algorithm recommends more.😊

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh my goodness! Thank you so much. I appreciate your feedback so much. When you mentioned the snapping of fingers, I laughed out loud. 😂 No gimmicks and tricks to be seen here. Nope. Keeping things simple. Thank you for subscribing.

[@debbiehall4155]

These are wonderful tips. And thank you for the free checklist. I’ll be using all of these things on my next project

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yaaay, Debbie! I'm so glad this was helpful for you. Enjoy your next project.

[@September7bride]

Thanks so much. I recently tried chain stitching for a repetitive project and it was a life saver. So planning your projects are key.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, Monette! Thank you for sharing. 💕

[@kchmrs]

Thank you Anita!💕

[@staciecallahan6338]

Thank you for this helpful video! I saw your interview in Sew News and am so glad I found your site! Your personality and wonderful teaching style are so refreshing and inspiring! I have a small sewing space so your tips will really help. Thank you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Stacie! You are so welcome! I'm glad you're enjoying the content on the channel. I'm also happy to hear you found me through the article. Thank you for coming to check me out. 💕

[@pearlinejones9693]

Thank you so much for this video!!! ❤️

[@daraharper2003]

Thank you Anita!

[@roslynmurray1619]

Not only is it important to do a pattern fit, and then adjust to suit your body and once pattern has been adjusted do a mock up with similar fabric, but to me, i cant get into sewing, unless i love the fabric i am using, i could not for instance sew pastels in pure colours, i have to do warm tones which are muted, that suit my skin tones. I always cut fabric and leave pattern peices on fabric, till i am ready to sew. My machine which can sew 1500 stitches per minute i slow down for sewing my wardrobe. I carry on me, samples of fabric i have used with me, so i can coordinate different outfits. I sew my entire wardrobe, and i like to mix and match. Sewing bags to enhance my outfit, along the way. I am a short apple shaped person, so adjusting commerial patterns is a must. I love the fact my mother taught me to sew 60 years ago, and while i am an artist and try to design every thing i do, i also have files on things i love, so i can get inspired. Perfect video, i have only just found you but will be passing on you channel to my loverly sewing ladies. Thanks so much, basically we only wear summer outfits, with tbe occasional light weight jumper in Australia.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you for sharing. 💕

[@yolanda7664]

Thank you Anita. This is do helpful. And, yes, if you could show how to measure the pattern pieces to get the finished measurements would be wonderful. I just love your helpful videos and how you explain everything....you are an awesome teacher!! Thank you sew much!! 😀

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome, Yolanda!

[@msbowcampbell6075]

Thank you for such a clear well made video. I have just found your channel and will be going through all your videos - they are so helpful. Thanks again - you are truly appreciated.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so very welcome. I'm glad you're enjoying the channel.

[@charissecolbert7204]

Great advice this information applies to all levels, Thanks Anita

[@gmilinia]

This was very helpful for me. Thank you for sharing these tips.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@alisonlee4723]

This whole video is brilliant thank you so much Anita, I am sure good organisation is the key to really loving sewing !

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome, Alison.

[@janiewarre9941]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@denisebarker9288]

Thank you. I'm inspired!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome

[@lfaber2747]

💝Thank you, I'm new to your channel!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome, and I'm very happy to have you here.

[@rhondagarden8878]

💡💡💡💡💡 THAT is a great idea!! I especially love the idea of batch sewing! Brilliant!

[@TaDarling1]

I agree with you about the batch sewing and I can't wait to try it. As a beginner, I had been doing it the opposite way. I had been focusing on completing all the steps for each individual piece (for example, all the steps for the sleeves and then all the steps for the bodice then the skirt, etc). When each individual piece is completed, I then do the steps to sew all the individual pieces together.

[@rhondagarden8878]

@@TaDarling1 I know! I've been sewing since I was 12 (57 now😵‍💫) and I've always started with step 1 and gone straight through. It never OCCURRED to me to do it any other way! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@TaDarling1]

@@rhondagarden8878 Wow, you're really experienced. Although I learned to sew in high school, it was only after I retired from my job a couple of years ago that it became a goal of mine to increase my sewing skillsets. I tackle as many beginner-level sewing projects as I can so that the basics become second nature to me and then I plan move on to more advanced level projects.

[@rhondagarden8878]

@@TaDarling1 I haven't been sewing straight through all these years, though. I took about 25 years off. I'm like the Tin Man: I've gotten my trusty ol' oil can out and relearning things. That's why I LOVE Anita! I started quilting just before the pandemic started and BOY that was just in time! I joined a group at church where we make baby quilts for charity. I became reacquainted with my sewing machine. I was looking for a video on how to make t-shirt dresses for my granddaughters and found Anita. She's given me back my sewjo 😁

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, that's what I used to do also. It really saves time to batch the seams. I even batch the darts and pleats on all the pieces before I go to the pressing station.

[@stephanaslynch8245]

hey I was looking on Penterest and I saw yours truly. You are an inspiration to me. I am your # one fan. Wish I could meet you in person. Thanks!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Stephanas! I'm so grateful for your support. Thank you for being here.

[@arletteleathem8742]

Amazing i love this it like anita is in the room with me unreal i could listen to anita all day so soothing gentle voice explaing her beautifuil process with us all

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh, Arlette! Thank you so much.

[@patn1765]

You are a phenomenal teacher. I love your style, your home, your personality! Thank you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Wow, thank you! I'm so glad you're enjoying the content I share here. I appreciate you, Pat. 💕

[@lisagardiner3782]

Thanks a lot Anita, I’ve printed my checklist! Excellent tips! God bless you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Awesome! You're very welcome. God bless you too.

[@rosaotero506]

Love it dear. Hank You fir yor instructions. Good bless.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome

[@jodikasper7995]

Anita - this is such good advice. Especially the system. I go back and forth, back and forth. I’m going to try to implement this!

[@AnitabyDesign]

It will make a great difference, Jodi.

[@DeCampbell]

Thanks, Anita. I'm getting ready to start a home decor sewing project and I plan to use your time saving tips.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@runningformybestlife]

Such a smooth speaker my friend. These are fantastic tips for people for those who are thinking of taking on sewing. Love the format of this video.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Heeeyyy Anthony! Thank you so much, my brother. 💕

[@maureencapobianco3596]

Your advice about not sewing what’s trendy speaks to me! I’ve wasted time and money sewing patterns and fabrics because I see them on KZbin and end up disappointed. Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are very welcome.

[@rachelkarcher2565]

Thoughtful approach to project management.

[@Sowergirlsews]

Thanks for the resources!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome.

[@trudymiller635]

Thank you for great tips and SOS resource!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome, Trudy! 💕

[@kimb8034]

You are so helpful, thank you! I am struggling how to determine to size a pattern. Would be very appreciative if you would show us how to do this!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Kim. What do you mean by "size a pattern?" Do you mean pick a size to cut or alter a pattern?

[@camilledammasch3648]

This was great, its always a blessing to be able to learn little tips and tricks and glean what is going to work for us. I'm new here, but I just wanted to extend my apologies on behalf of some bitter people whose only object is to offend and mock you. You post these videos for free at no cost to us and we should all be grateful. Thank you for sharing your talents with us. Stay blessed. 🙌

[@AnitabyDesign]

Oh Camille! Thank you so much for blessing my heart. I love sharing and so many people show appreciation, like you. You stay blessed, too, my sister.

[@vanessaknight7129]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge...can't wait ti take your class.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome! I would love to have you in the sewing course.

[@empichel5690]

This is great advice

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you. I'm glad you agree. 💕

[@rhamnerdixon2974]

Thank you so much for sharing your time saving ideas. I plan to use them all.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are very welcome.

[@tabianamoto]

BRAVO! #ComeOnTeaTime!

[@laneshiahawkins4795]

Great video! Thanks for the checklist. You mentioned possibly making a video on flat pattern measurements, that would be great. You also mentioned using old bed sheets for your muslins. Do you have a video on how to use the sheets for muslins? How do you prepare them to use? How do you find the selvage, grainline…?

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Laneshia! I don't have a video for muslins. I fold my sheets lengthwise or widthwise. The sheets are all washed. That's all the preparation needed.

[@enriquet548]

Great checklist. I tend to get frustrated sometimes and spread out my projects into several days. I create a todo list that is general and I do separate tasks in short bursts of available time. Sewing seems to be the last thing in the process because cutting perfectly and measuring and preparing is most of the work.

[@AnitabyDesign]

I spread my sewing projects out over several days too, on purpose. I cut one day, sew the next day or two. I'm not rushing through the project, but I'm optimizing the time by being organized in advance.

[@pamici1]

This was so helpful and inspiring - thank you!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@bdee3207]

Thank you so much, Ms. Anita🙏❤

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome

[@ginnycurrin9566]

Thanks!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Wow, Ginny! Thank you so much. I really appreciate the gift. 💕💕💕

[@owlbefine8910]

Great advice!

[@LesaLegit]

Another great video!! Thanks so much

[@AnitabyDesign]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jeanjones7913]

Thank you for this video and the checklist.

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@lynluna8984]

Great video. Thank you Anita!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome

[@HomeCentsWithNell]

Thank you so much. These are fantastic tips! I'm looking forward to the PDF🙂

[@pamelamann7933]

A lot of really good information 🧵thank you so much!

[@AnitabyDesign]

You are so welcome!

[@debbiebridges5121]

Thanks you this will really help

[@ruthirwin8222]

I love the process x

[@allthebest744]

This was very informative. By following your steps, I think there will be less frustration and better results. Thank you for the checklist, that will definitely help! 😊. BTW, I love your tea cart!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Glad it was helpful! You are very welcome. Oh, the tea cart is my favorite. 💕

[@emilywhite6853]

Absolutely excellent.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Thank you so much

[@jackietschantz]

thank you

[@patriciacadena5293]

Just found it in your Nov.1, 2022 Thank you again

[@endlessdznsbycarrie8356]

Sew many great tips!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hey Carrie! Glad you like them!

[@veerichardson938]

One other question that is important to ask yourself is -what are my expectations for this project? Is it a garment that you’re sewing for an occasion/event which could place time constraints and possibly challenge even the best laid plans, versus a garment that you can take as much time as you need to complete. Anita, this is such a great video and so beneficial to remind myself to be better organized with my sewing projects. Thank you.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, Vee, that is a great consideration too. I'm glad to hear that you find the information valuable.

[@joimh941234]

thank you so much!!! I plan to use these tips to make McCalls m7835

[@AnitabyDesign]

You're very welcome.

[@annvan1962]

Hi Anita ! As always, I love your videos! You and your videos are so inspiring :). Is the "How to save time on your sewing projects for beginners - 3 STEPS" (2022), still available? I tried to have it emailed to be by clinking the link and didn't receive it? I'm not sure, but maybe you remove some of your helpful hints after a certain period of time? If not, how can I get this checklist? Thank you and keep on doing your thing :) You are totally awesome !!

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Ann! Yes, the Checklist is still available. I just tested the link and everything is working on my end. The form was delivered after I signed up. Make sure you check your spam box. Sometimes the emails will go there if it's coming from an unfamiliar account. Also, it helps to add my email address to your email address list. Also, I just checked my list by adding your name in the search bar and you're not subscribed to the list. Give it another try by clicking the link below. bit.ly/getsewingchecklist

[@nildavalencia5524]

Nice

[@TaDarling1]

Curious to know if you make muslins (test garments) for everything or do you make muslins only when you are concerned about 'fit' issues? What do you do with all the muslins you make when you're done with them? As an experienced sewist, you must have amassed quite a few. Lastly, I would like to add something that I do during prep time. I always decide (and practice) how I'm going to finish my garment seam allowances so that I don't have them pressed open in one area and pressed to one side and topstitched in others.

[@AnitabyDesign]

I only sew muslins when I want to check fit. You can donate the muslins to your local community college if they have a design school. The students can use the fabric for practice.

[@BadGirl0804]

What are your top 5 sewing books that you recommend? Thanks.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Pattern Fitting by Nancy Zieman Fabric Savvy by Sandra Betzina Vogue-Butterich Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing Techniques Ahead of the Curve by Jenny Rushmore

[@Joselyntalented]

Can you make video about lighting to record sewing videos ?

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi JoselynBeauty! Hmmm... That's way outside my expertise, sis. But I will definitely refer you to the lady I follow on KZbin where I'm learning a lot about all things video. Here is her KZbin channel.kzbin.info

[@ab71640]

What do you do with the muslin garment that you made? Also, for cotton fabric to you wash it before you cut for shrinkage allowance?

[@AnitabyDesign]

I add the muslin to my scrap fabric box. Yes, I wash all my fabrics as soon as I bring them home and store them for future use. Unless they are dry clean only, which I don't purchase often.

[@MamaMia-ht3zp]

Hello Anita My son have me a new sewing machine and I don't know how to work it I want to learn to sew

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hi Mama Mia! You should check out my new online sewing course. Enrollment opens in June. It's for new beginners, people who have never touched a sewing machine before. Here is the link to get on the waitlist. Everyone on the waitlist will have the first opportunity to enroll when the doors open. mailchi.mp/anitabydesign/sewing-course-waitlist

[@aliceannjo]

Read every page of the manual. Even if you know about something, the machine may be different in a slight way. You will be amazed at what you will accomplish. Oh and keep up with Anita.

[@debramejia5091]

What a wonderful son! You are blessed! 🤗

[@FalanaBlessed]

I know you mentioned commercial and self drafted patterns, but indie patterns should be considered as well. You may have to put a pdf pattern together or send it to a copy shop. I typically when put my pdf pattern together or trace out the copy shop version days sometimes weeks before I sew a project.

[@AnitabyDesign]

Yes, yes, yes! That's totally a huge consideration. I was grouping indie patterns with commercial but I should have mentioned the time to self construct verses sending to a print shop. Thank you for mentioning that, Faalana.

[@jean1946100]

❤loveyou

[@patriciacadena5293]

I just tried to get your list and it didn't work. Is it still up? Thank you for sharing this information with us. I am also a long time sewer

[@AnitabyDesign]

Hmmm. What happened when you tried to get the checklist?

[@djtblizzle]

@@AnitabyDesign I just clicked the link and it took me right to the checklist. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@janellelarson945]

C4yt

[@cleanqueen75]

Some pattern instructions are very vague. You have to know how to sew.