CUTTING ANXIETY? ✂ Try these 3 practical ways to get over your fear of 'wasting fabric'!

Procrastinate about making the first cut in your fabric? Scared you'll waste fabric or totally ruin your project? As we learn to sew we all suffer cutting anxiety! I have 3 methods to help you get over this fear so you can get on with your sewing!
✂ If you're ready to take your sewing to the next level and create the things you always dreamed of, join me at
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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...
WHAT'S THE BEST FABRIC TO USE FOR A TOILE OR MOCKUP? Muslin? Calico? Bedsheets? What about knits???
• WHAT'S THE BEST FABRIC...
Why bother making a toile/ mock-up/ muslin?? And how making one can improve your sewing!
• Why bother making a to...
Mistakes are part of the process - Going back to your 'finished' sewing projects
• Sewing Realities - Goi...
How to pick EASY sewing pattern designs... for YOU!
• How to pick EASY sewin...
14 things I wish someone told me about sewing as a beginner!
• 14 things I wish someo...
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 #sewingclothes #learntosew #sewing

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

For me the major roadblock to cutting out is the financial aspect. I have a very limited budget for my sewing projects. If I make a mistake I can't just buy more fabric the next day, I might have to save up again for weeks or even months and the fabric might not be available then. I spend a LOT of time perfecting my toile and making sure I have all the pattern pieces marked and labeled before I cut my fabric!

[@Ms.Mel.Creates]

Check with friends for old bed sheets or shirts or clothes that they don’t need! Take them apart and practice putting them back together again! I find it it helps to focus less on needing a useable and wearable item at the end and more on “I’m learning how to do sleeves better” on garbage fabric only. Then try to make something wearable later. I try to think of the entertainment value of what I’m paying too. Even if I don’t end up with any shirt or dress I’ve still had 8, 10, 18 hours of entertainment.

[@Ms.Mel.Creates]

Another thing I do, because I’m in the same boat, is if something doesn’t work out it becomes fabric for dog bandanas, headbands, pillow cases, scrunchies, pin cushions, couch cushions, curtain ties, coasters, make up bags, tote bags… the fabric doesn’t always have to go in the bin if the dress doesn’t turn out :)

[@clarehendrickson2865]

I have the same problem

[@MegInASheathDress]

Same. Especially now with inflation. I make a toile when I feel a little nervous about cutting into expensive fabric.

[@trishjordan8859]

Goodwill is my best friend for this issue. You will be amazed at the material that is donated not to mention the sheets, table cloths, curtains bla bla. If you go on a sale day or in my case Tuesday is old folks day and it gets even cheaper. I am a new sewist at 67 an on a retirement budget. I rarely spend more than ten dollars and go home with yards of fabric I can practice on before I make the real thing. And it's fun practice.❤

[@sheelaghhalstead4549]

I am hesitant to use my yummy fabrics for something that may not turn out yummy. So I end up not using them. Recently I've tried to tell myself that any garment is better than fabric languishing in the cupboard. So just get on and make something. I've only recently found your channel and love your presentation, clear information, and enthusiasm.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I think your right, your fabric is better as a garment! I hope you use a yummy one soon!

[@ReinaElizondo]

Good philosophy!

[@debbean6637]

As a beginner sewing I hadn’t realized how much ‘sewing’ occurs before I pick up a pair a scissors and make my first snip of the expensive fabric. The time spent picking the correct size on the pattern, mocking up the toile, refitting toile and reading the instructions is probably the longest time I spend on any project. I also spend a lot of time ensuring the fabric is right for my pattern - not just the pattern and colour but drape and texture. I’ve found this too makes a huge difference to result and how a pattern works. I’m now much more confident when I make that first cut into my fabric. Love your videos.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Right!! I say sewing is 70% preparation 😀

[@marymoore3585]

I thought I was the only one who felt so anxious about cutting the nice fabric. I don't mind the sheets and curtains. The nice fabric makes me kinda spazz out.

[@nat6098]

I make a mockups before anything but once I' ready to move onto the garment I will make the lining of the garment first so if there's anything I forgot to address I can fix it and nobody will be able to see it once the whole thing is finished. Usually my linings will have extra darts of pieces added in then I'll trace out the lining pieces onto my outer fabric so they're a lot neater. I found out that that is how many dresses were made historically as well in an effort to save on fabric; mockups tend to catch the big issues and linings are great for doing the fine tuning before cutting the outer fabric.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yes the lining fitting is a great way to add another fitting stage into the process!

[@teresas.3979]

That's brilliant. I my try that next time. Of course it has to be a lined pattern.

[@angelwilliams9221]

This is a great idea, I'll put it in my sewing diary so I don't forget.

[@ottie1954]

My Prince of Wales fabric waited on my cutting table for....some weeks before I had the courage to cut it 🤣 Then oneday I did it 😊 and now I own a stylish coat...I always ask to myself: did I sew it? Impossible 😁

[@Evelyn__Wood]

😄😄😄 Yay!! I thankyou for sharing you encouraging story from the other side!

[@GP27373]

I really needed to hear this. I have sat frozen and put things away because I don't want to "mess up". Fabric can get expensive but just now I had this light bulb go on realizing I have all this fabric sitting in drawers for nothing! 🤣🤦‍♀️ I'm going to measure twice, cut once and get over myself so I can learn! Thank you!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

You've got this Gloria! 🙂

[@Emmelina1203]

Same here 🙋🏼‍♀️😄 the good thing is I could use all of this as a mockup fabric now 😅👍

[@juliepowell5941]

Well done Gloria! The other saying to have in mind is "The man who never made a mistake, never made anything".. Whatever happens, if you learn from it, an experience is never wasted. Good luck!

[@szickef]

Literally staring at my patterns prior to cutting and thinking of all the reasons I can to go to the store and buy more sewing gadgets instead of actually CUTTING it out! Ha! Thank you for this - perfect timing ☺️

[@Timetravel1111]

OK this was a year ago what did you sell and how did it turn out?

[@thendisnearsone]

How did you KNOW?? My grandma and grandpa gave me lots of pretty vintage fabrics months ago, and I've been changing the projects because I don't want to sew something that is not wereable 😔 Thank you Evelyn 🎀✨

[@nephfey2605]

I'm in a similar situation. My great nan gave me some vintage fabric from over 45 years ago.... I can't even look at it without anxiety

[@thendisnearsone]

@@nephfey2605 Exactly, I want to construct something that makes me proud to wear✨ What about making mock ups "together" and tackle this fear??🌼💕

[@mariaflorenciaalvarez1926]

You can practice with that fabric, if you are beginner

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Florr I'm really glad this was just what you needed! Because that beautiful fabric was given you to you to be used and made into something you wear and love! I love the idea of doing it together! It's less scary then right!! ❤

[@judyjennings-gunther4022]

I think making a mock-up is a great way to conquer fear. Sewing mistakes..... I had a college roommate who made a backless dress. Instead of putting the front piece on the fold she cut the fold line. Not only was it too tight, she had a vertical seam going up the middle of the dress. It looked so bad I was compelled to buy the pattern and make it right. Mine turned out beautifully and I can still wear it, 30 yrs later. :)

[@ameliacarey3315]

My Daughter asked my to make her wedding dress. Ah... she lives in another state 16 hours away. I have made 2 bodice in muslin. Had to make adjustments to the pattern between sample muslins. Now I am ready to make a sample dress. Then if that works I'll be ready to cut into the actual wedding dress fabric. I told her the sample dress, it is a different color than her actual wedding dress, she could use it at the reception. Win-win. Right?

[@KlingonPrincess]

You are a saint!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

This is a great plan! 😄 what a special project!

[@deannastevens1217]

It's going to be great. My Friend asked me to do thisfor her while she was one state away. Only a 4 hour drive... But Also had to send the Mock ups and all to them separately to get the beest measurements on the Bride and Bridesmaids. So Much Work. So Much Beautiful work . When done her Dress fit perfectly. and mine. And The other Maid....didn't show up... so a Dress Never Worn.... UghUghUgh!!!

[@eleanor.shadow]

Another good idea is to have a Sewing Log/Diary. You’ll write down when and what you sewed, what fabric you used, and what lessons or tips you learned. This will help you in the future if you decide to sew that pattern again in the future!

[@Timetravel1111]

Oh I love this sewing journal yes and then I can read today’s date and how I got over my fear of cutting into my vintage fabric that’s really rare and I can’t replace it but then I’m gonna use practice fabric first… I’ll put your name down on the Tips ❤❤

[@eleanor.shadow]

@@Timetravel1111 glad to help!

[@thembikunene5175]

This is me almost all the time. And then after all that procrastination, I still end up with unforgivable mistakes 😭 NOTE TO SELF: Measure twice, cut once & keep a sewing diary in 2023!!!

[@odetteboudreau5970]

Making a mock up first is the answer for me but I think I will start making a list too. I'm sure this would save a lot of time. 👍

[@beebuzz959]

I'm even worse! I like to make it out of scrap paper (old newspaper or something even because I don't want to waste paper), even though it doesn't lay/drape the same way I know it'll fit still. I hate Wayne mock up fabric too, even if it's an old sheet or something.

[@amishgirl1000]

The check list is a great idea. I was so happy to learn that Failure is part of learning.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

It is nice to know you're not the only one out there right, and you're not doing it wrong! ❤

[@leleste5465]

I still have 5 rolls fabrics in my house that I haven’t used because I keep telling myself that I might need it for a better project

[@SolveigMineo]

Same here 😭😭

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

I only have one... but yeah me too!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I can absolutely relate to this one! I like to have around. And nice fabric. And I find myself not using the nice ones because as you say, what if a better project come up for it! 😂 now I really focus on using the good stuff for good projects, because more awesome fabric always finds its way to you, only if you have space it so though! So every project deserves good fabric ❤

[@deannastevens1217]

I have more. Just waiting for the right projct/pattern!

[@DashboardCookies]

Wow ... just @ me next time...

[@rainieraine1192]

Oh my, I thought this was only me who couldn’t cut fabric!

[@4gma59]

I'm right with you on this one! Anxiety for me!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

You're absolutely not the only one! I think we all do at some point, so your not alone!

[@4gma59]

@@Evelyn__Wood ❤

[@smmargret6300]

I remember sewing a sheath dress when I was 16 that I wanted to wear to the movie theatre that night where I worked 3.5 hours at night. I was so frustrated trying to put in a zipper and it just would not go right. I was practically crying, o.k. maybe not crying but certainly cursing. My dad took the dress from me and took it to a dressmaker. She did a beautiful job! haha I was using my mom's old singer sewing machine that had the pedal on the right side of the cabinet where you pressed your knee against it to activate. ;-)

[@Miniver765]

Oh yes, I learned on one of those too. In your defense, putting in a zipper can pose challenges to even the most competent sewer. You really have to get everything perfect to avoid that instantly recognizable "homemade" look. My first zipper fiasco was with a Simplicity shirtwaist dress in variegated gray wool jersey. As I recall, my mother had to step in to help me complete it in time for our senior class trip to New York.

[@judyjennings-gunther4022]

That was so sweet of your dad to take it to a dress maker.

[@_xxsimoxz_7310]

Thank you! I have an ambitious project going on, but I am scared to cut out fabric! I already made 2 mock ups, and I am feeling waaay better. And the fabric is just satin! 4€ a yard, so it’s nit too expensive, I can always get more!! Thank you for the great tips!

[@Evelyn__Wood]

You've taken the right steps already!! How exciting! I can't wait to see you in it!

[@_xxsimoxz_7310]

@@Evelyn__Wood I am super excited also!!!

[@semco72057]

That is so true about being hesitant about cutting the fabric and ruining it and I am guilty of that now as I want to make a quilt and is afraid to begin work on the pieces which is already cut up and need to be put together.

[@MystiDawn]

I tend to use the 'Micarah Tewers' technique 🤣🤣 for some reason, it turns out so much better for her than it does for me...probably because she actually knows what shes doing and I've made 1 successful garment lol

[@missmatti]

What is this Micarah Tewers-technique? I cannot watch her videos, even if I sometimes want to, because her editing makes me dizzy.

[@MystiDawn]

@@missmatti that's fair, her editing is very chaotic lol her sewing is pretty much the same lol she doesn't use patterns and just wings it usually lol

[@missmatti]

@@MystiDawn haha I noticed in the few videos I tried to watch before deciding feeling motion sick when watching things for entertainment isn’t worth it 😅 I used to wing things quite a lot but I am now a much more conservative sewists that test, test & test!

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

@@MystiDawn I watch her usually with my jaw on the floor while saying “but but how can that work”? I guess I’m not watching closely enough to make her edits a problem I’m usually doing something else while watching. It’s amazing to watch. I do wing it sometimes but in a more controlled way.

[@MystiDawn]

@@robintheparttimesewer6798 right, it's quite amazing! I randomly came across one her videos afew yrs ago and that's what actually inspired me to start sewing in the first place. I just recently moved into my grandma's old house and found her old sewing machine, so I'm alot more serious about it now lol but I guess her chaos speaks to me haha

[@sandraroper9866]

Hi I use old bed sheets first and once I’ve made it I feel more confident in cutting my expensive fabric. The down side is the fabric is always different

[@SamanthaMadison197]

My worst sewing mistake ever was when I was in my 20s, making a beautiful halter top dress with a very full mid-calf length skirt out of white cotton. The dress was almost finished. I tried it on and it looked perfect, it was just a bit too long. So I cut some fabric off at the hem - without checking the new length first - and suddenly it was no longer a long romantic white dress, it was a short knee-length dress which looked all wrong with so much fabric in the skirt. I was devastated - I donated it to a thrift store because wearing it would have been a constant reminder of my mistake. I definitely learned from the experience, and hopefully someone else got a dress that they loved.

[@vivianagutierrez1966]

11 years!!!!! With a fabric for a regency gown that I’m afraid to cut , yes anxiety is real

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Oh no!! I hope you do use it for a magical project soon!

[@oliviaknight1123]

Just think how much you'll love that dress once you've made it. The fabric is not doing you, your skills or the beauty of the fabric any justice being sat there. Make the dress! Please share once you make a start, I promise you will feel amazing once you start and even better once you wear it. Go on...😘💋❤❤❤

[@vivianagutierrez1966]

@@oliviaknight1123 thank you for your words of encouragement!

[@oliviaknight1123]

@@vivianagutierrez1966 my pleasure lovely! 😘💋❤ go on, make that beautiful Regency gown.... ❤

[@lindawisner3525]

Generally my panic is reserved for first toile cuts, very expensive fabric and fabrics that need matching.

[@cynthiasloan3867]

I love your "so what then" idea. Had to laugh at the crunched up ball of fabric in the corner.

[@thebratqueen]

"It's just fabric, it won't bite you" - of course not, that's the job of zippers to do. ;)

[@dawnbrotherton4987]

Such great advice. Who else uses list? Airline pilots, surgeons, divers, engineers, building construction managers. People who cannot make mistakes without great disaster. Love the list 🙂

[@wisecanadianwoman]

Thank you so much for this video Evelyn. It's been 30+ years since I bought a pattern and sewed it up and I must admit I have been very intimidated by it all even though I learned how to sew 50 years ago. I have been stalling to make up the first project that I picked but with your good advice and knowing that I'm not alone in my hesitation, I feel I will get my act together and get on with it. Thanks again and love your videos! ❤️

[@Evelyn__Wood]

And glad it helped. Thanks for watching! 😀

[@rebeccabrothers8056]

I totally agree with her " what's the worst thing-it's just fabric" and growing thru the mistakes , so true!

[@debbiemiksch7276]

I agree, it's only fabric. And yes it will be costly to replace, but that's life. I cut a pair of pj's out when my son was almost into a size larger than what he was in. I ended up donating it cuz he grew so fast past that size that I was really upset. But once it was out of the house, I didn't care anymore. Out of sight, out of mind and onto bigger and better things.

[@teedoubleu9602]

I suffer from this cutting anxiety... so I've stopped buying fabric (I have boxes of fabrics, dedicated to patterns, that I'm too afraid to cut into 😖😟)to make anything and instead buy second-hand clothes and refashion them 😁 Whenever I feel overwhelmed or anxious about the refashion, I remind myself how cheap the garment was and tell myself that whatever it turns into, it'll be 1 of a kind.. BOOM!!! anxiety disappears and the feeling of being overwhelmed then turns to the most difficult question in refashioning, "What do I want to do with this garment?" This has been the best way for me to ignore the cutting anxiety and to, instead, spend my energy and resources on refashions 😊

[@catladylion5186]

Ohhh thanks for pointing this out. I thought it was just me. A few years ago I found this beautiful floral pink fabric from my local fabric store and the dress I was going to make needed a bit more of this fabric but the store didn’t have the same fabric anymore, so I ended up asking my seamstress friend to cut the fabric for me. And since I love that fabric so much, I framed a small piece of the leftover fabric and hang it on the wall.

[@musictib2735]

This video helped me to start already my sewing projects. I was terrified of messing up, I ended up making two dresses, they came out so good I wore one of them to my friends engagement party. It looked fabulous and I felt proud how it turned out. Thank you for this video.

[@NS-vr2mb]

Glad to know that i am not only one who had or has fear of cutting wrong. Saw my mom sew growing up and tried to learn, but was too embarrassed to admit it growing up. Since i saw her and thought, it not going to look as good as your's, mom. Not going to say how long it has stopped me from starting, just going to say thank u. They are simple and yet, i couldn't see it before. Heck, i could watch scary videos and movies all day long and not get as scared as i would be before cutting fabric or patterns. Lol

[@karin0963]

Thank you for this. I hate wasting fabric and I appreciate the tips. I love your intro, I feel like I've gone back in time. 😄

[@dianarivas5752]

I've had a lot of anxiety with many thoughts; what if I do something wrong at the pattern stage, fabric choice stage, cutting stage, sewing stage. Recently I've let go exactly for the reasons you go over in this video. I've downloaded a free pdf pattern, bought nice clearance fabric and will soon start to cut. It weighs on me less to know I won't waste too much money this way and the time used is not wasted since I will gain experience. Thank you so much for your channel 🥰

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

If you are not being rushed, take the time to make a sample. If you don't want to waste time on a sample, use a cheaper fabric to cut out , sew the project, then wear it. After wearings the finished project several times, you should know if you want to use your better fabric to make the same project. I see nothing wrong with making several items from the same pattern. It does not take much to make them look different from each other (different types of fabrics, colors and prints).

[@jirup]

I've never understood sewer's who don't make repeats. You toile the pattern, get it fitting the way you want and then tweak the details. I Have a few 'unicorn' patterns that I make over and over again and rarely buy new patterns. The split skirt pattern I use I bought in the 1990's, it's a classic.

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

@@jirup You are so correct. There isn't really much new in fashion. Fashion just keeps repeating itself. The fabrics, colors, and prints all do keep changing. But, the really good stuff is call classic.

[@judyjennings-gunther4022]

@@jirup I have a shorts pattern that I have been making since 1983. This last year I have taken that shorts pattern(you know back then when there was about 5 different designs in one pattern)top part then used a pattern from 1972(not mine I was only 11yrs old)for the bottom part.I love wide leg and super flowy pants. Last year I started making mock-ups, before I would just make up the tricky part of the pattern. I have been making patterns from the 30-40's and wanted to see how well they fit. My philosophy is if I am going to go to all of that work, I want it to be wearable. I would never do a mock up in beige muslin. Why? If it turned out you certainly couldn't wear it. I love buying vintage, soft sheets at thrift stores and using them for mock-ups.

[@DreamPainter54]

This is exactly what I needed omg

[@susanrobertson984]

I have bought some veeeery expensive fabrics as remnants from a local shop. I've got cashmere blends that would retail for 80/m for example. I make practice versions out of cheaper fabric and often find that they are great and never get around to making anything with the fancier/more expensive fabrics. So they are collecting in the back of my storage closet. I swear they are breeding now.

[@carolynvines2027]

OMG! You just gave me my answer. What is holding me back? Fear of making a mistake is what keeps me from moving forward in life. This fear keeps me from doing, being, and having all that I desire. It so simple. Surely I knew this all along; but I find myself spiraling into all the ways I have allowed this fear to hold me back. I know this video was not meant to be about enlightenment; but, apparently, it is for me. 😅

[@frankienichols1864]

I have a beautiful piece of fabric that I have had for years. I've just never found the pattern I wanted to use yet. I bought 2 3/4 yrs. so that I would have enough, no matter if I wanted to make a dress or a pair of pants and a top.

[@frankienichols1864]

I forgot to add, that this fabric was $19 per yard in 1991, so no telling how much it would be now?

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I hope you find the perfect design very soon!!

[@missmatti]

I got to test my “so what then..?” mentality yesterday. I made a pair of joggers copied from an old pair of joggers from a fast fashion brand. I was skeptical about the pocket construction but went with it. Turns out the pocket was a complete nightmare to construct well! I should’ve trusted myself! Anyway I had a break down in the end and was ready to throw them into a ball in the corner thinking I wasted all the fabric and now I cannot make a pair of joggers anymore. So dramatic! 😅 After my tears and anger disappeared I could see several solutions to this: 1) Cut out a new top part of the front piece and patch to the rest of the pants making it part of the design 2) Buy more fabric and recut the front pieces 3) Cut a diagonal side pocket instead of the insert side pocket design I originally planned for. I went with the last option which I think was the least wasteful and easiest solution to pull off, and the pocket worked out! And as you say in the end of the day it’s just fabric!

[@monaanz6754]

Good for you Matilda! I'm glad you didn't give up on your joggers why don't you post a picture of them for others to admire?

[@missmatti]

@@monaanz6754 It's coming Mona! Check Instagram tonight ;)

[@Evelyn__Wood]

❤A wonderful and encouraging story for us all to remember, there's always a solution to make it work!

[@brunamota8865]

I am a absolute beginner sewing on the machine, but I have been hand sewing for years (and honestly I love it) I bought an old (but very resistant) sewing machine about a month ago. My aunt, who is a long time seamstress, made me really unmotivated and sad for buying and old domestic sewing machine instead of an industrial one, saying that I wouldn't be able to do anything with it. :( I have a simple off white cotton piece of fabric that I want to make a dress with but I'm really afraid of messing it up. I'm gonna follow your tips. I'm motivated now! I want to create garments and if it doesn't work the first time I have the rest of my life to try again😄

[@monaanz6754]

Bruna- don't despair about buying an old machine! After sewing 50+years and wearing out several "newer" machines I use and prefer older machines! My Singers are 60 &70 years old! Easy to clean, oil and repair! I've done lots of heavy duty sewing on them without trouble by using correct needle size.

[@tamila7381]

I thought it was just me! Thank you, I truly needed that.

[@sekaihatsu]

I was just lamenting this today! Why sewing is so scary and patterns are hard to understand and not knowing enough to go it alone without a pattern. I'm so glad I was this video. Baby steps: get the paper pattern cut out. Then a mock up. Thank you again for the encouragement Evelyn!

[@refashionrose9499]

Excellent video and so right. Thank you for sharing this 😃. My biggest thing I have learned from you over time is that to learn and get better you need to identify mistakes and learn from them. You taught me thats a part of it. Also until you feel more confident I didn’t use expensive fabric in case it didn’t work. Now my confidence is growing I feel I can splash out of lovely fabric

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yay!! That's right, all your hard work you put into your creations deserves nice fabric ❤

[@californianinkansas]

Ma’am, Thank you for making this video. I’ve been stuck at this stage on a very simple project for the past two weeks. Your guidance in this video is good life advice for just about any situation caused by anxiety and/or perfection paralysis 💜

[@ronhorner4060]

I have 3 yards of a gorgeous iridescent leopard print 4 way stretch fabric. I have patterns in mind but before I can cut it I need to get better with sewing knits. I have had it for a year or better but it is still a fabric that gives me horrors lol I chop off a bit now and again to test my growing skills but still not there, one day :) It is a designer fabric that the closest thing I can find on the net runs at $90 per yard ! It is just so gorgeous and feels amazing against my skin but was a thrift store find and I will never find another piece so yes, I have cutting anxiety on this piece of fabric lol

[@stellau3028]

I love your looks and the top you’re wearing here. Love your videos and your vintage look. Thanks

[@garybaldwin5241]

Thank you so much for this series. It’s exactly what I need at this moment. I just finished my first mock up ever. It actually turned out far too large. I’m headed back to review the first two videos, especially the picking the correct size to sew. Your faith in us as new sewists means so much. You encourage me to keep trying.

[@4gma59]

Thanks for a video on this. Thought I was alone on this one.

[@luciatat4084]

I never feared cutting the fabric, but my biggest problem is fearing the next sewing step in making a garment, especially when the next step is going to be a more difficult one. For this reason I have lots and lots of unfinished projects that are waiting to be finished when I will have some more courage to complete them. I guess this fear appeared becouse when I started sewing, I made mistakes that costed me the entire project and ended up being dissapointed becouse I worked so hard for nothing...

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Lucia perhaps making a toile, but making it all the way through so you can practice the sewing techniques too! 😃 It's never so scary the second time around!

[@beebuzz959]

Maybe if you change your perspective? Those items never being finished are also going to waste, because they're not getting finished. That's kind of just as bad as messing them up, but maybe even worse because if you mess up you learn, and you had fun doing it.

[@MyFictionalChaos]

This helps me because im often scared to make the first cut on my mockup. It's not REALLY that big of a deal. I can always mess up on my mockup

[@petiteminipizza]

Against the fear of sewing wrong, I pin the fabrics together along the seam line and turn them "inside out" to check if this is really how I want them to be sewn together

[@sarahburroughs5318]

I spent 110$ on fabric to make a dress ended up making the wrong size and yes it was that bad because I’m poor and I could not afford to “just get more fabric” lol now I will always make a mock up lol these tips are great though! I told my best friend it’s not really sewing unless you mess something up at least once 😅

[@MM-xr7mb]

These are all the things that happen to me but believe me we sew for hobbies and in some countries they have to earn a living and work hard for a daily wages

[@soneil7745]

I always get anxiety when I'm nearing the final steps of assembly. I don't know why, but when it still looks like just piecing together fabric cutouts I'm fine. When it is starting to really look like the finished garment, I get more and more anxious. I had to put down a pair of pants for a day to psych myself up for the big moment when I joined the legs. I think it's because I fear a big reckoning for every little mistake I may have made when I actually piece it together-- no matter how many times I remind myself that no circle of judgement is about to gather around me at the machine.

[@dorothymarquis5738]

I was hoping from the title of this video that you would be dealing with the actual physical cutting. This is still my nemesis. I have been watching many of the #frugalfrocks reveal posts and have understood one of the main issues for many people - the pattern sizing. I am one of those unusual people who loves the pattern process. I do make a toile when I am facing a new pattern the first time. Nowadays patterns come in multiple sizes; I trace off the pattern pieces I will use (or hope to use). I use the sizing on the outside of the pattern pack to determine approximate sizes. All good patterns have the waist and hip positions marked, and often the position of the bust. I measure the pattern pieces, write the information in a notebook, then calculate finished measures - from this I determine which size to trace. I often trace 2 sizes and will make, if possible, wearable toiles in both sizes. I start with the larger size - if this proves too roomy I will try the next smaller size. But other measurements must be determined from the pattern first - the across back and the neck to shoulder length. Like all activities in life, planning is important - skip this step and disasters may happen. And yes, it is just fabric. But maybe it is the one piece of fabric you bought years ago and have not made up. You take it out of your stash every now and then, touch it, feel it, play with it, then pack it away again - too scared to mess it up. I am getting to enjoy your channel immensely - you have wise words and teach me a great deal. Thank you.

[@kathrynpickering1497]

Thank you Evelyn. You're such a doll and a sweetheart. You always help!

[@BeautifulOaks]

Such great life and cutting advice, Evelyn! I will use your “ So, what then?”.

[@GrumpyKitten375]

I always make a copy of my pattern pieces using thin drop cloth plastic . I got this idea of a cosplayer, they share patterns amongst their community so they take a tracing and then pass the pattern on. It saves the pattern obviously. But I found it works brilliantly for cutting out fabrics. The plastic copy of the pattern piece It pins beautifully to fabric and keeps the measurements accurate than wrinkly paper. So when I am working on the toile, and get it fitted, I know the paper doesn’t wrinkle and I can cut the toile and I can see where I am cutting under the plastic. The paper hides the scissors while cutting. The bottom blade may have been a few mm off and it it cut askew. This way I can cut and keep the cutting accurate. Made a huge difference to the final cutting out

[@silkeb.968]

Thank you so much. You are right. It is JUST fabric nice clear words that i needed thanks

[@Evelyn__Wood]

I'm glad to hear it!🙂

[@matl93]

For me it is also important to not be hungry or tired when I cut out the fabric and sew. 😅 My biggest mistakes are made late at night when I haven't eaten enough. 🙄

[@MM-xr7mb]

So true but still we have anxiety but the end result of your own hard wrk does make you proud and I have this anxiety every time I sew my clothes just to prepare and think over and to put the scissors forward but when I’m on my last seam I think I’ve actually pulled through bcs lots of hard work involved and everyone’s mentality is dfrnt some take it easy and some maybe like me

[@refashionrose9499]

Also.... I totally love your blouse or is it a dress. It’s adorable and suits you so well ❤️❤️❤️

[@Evelyn__Wood]

A dress! One from my vintage reproduction label, many years ago! From the 1930s

[@ReallyJillRogoff]

I never thought of making a checklist. Excellent idea.

[@jennifers5778]

The answer is test is best. Thdn 90% will go smoother for the real garmet project. You shifted me out of this hold back fedling. TEST makes you comfortable and confident. ❤❤❤❤😊

[@ettadiemert5241]

I am so happy that I found you on UTube. I have made a few pieces, but they turned out wrong because I didn't have this advice upfront. Thanks for the great tutorials!

[@Timetravel1111]

You’re so endearing so good at building my confidence! I could watching it for years I’m starting to put all the pieces together here literally in my head and organization. I’m not sure why it didn’t occur to me to make a checklist to notepad 📝 😂❤

[@popcornpenguin6225]

If I know I want to try a new technique like French seams or something I will practice doing that on the mock-up it takes longer that way but it helps me so much with my confidence. A checklist saves me so much anxiety too!

[@bettyeames6812]

My roadblock is lack of inspiration because I still feel I have no where to go. I’m seeing baby quilts now. I hope to plan an outfit to see soon. Love your videos! You got me started mending instead of trashing. You’re pretty awesome!

[@bettyeames6812]

Sewing not seeing.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Hearing you started mending just makes my day! 😄 Glamorous everyday wear!

[@jennimorgan9381]

Hi Evelyn, I am so pleased to come across this video. I have never sewn clothing before and so want to do so but get seriously anxious about having a go and therefore do lots of thinking about doing it without actually starting. However, a friend helped me through the cutting out of the pattern which was excellent but as soon as I was left to continue on the old anxiety took over again. Thankfully I have more than enough of the material for the top I want to make so after watching your insightful video I am going to go on with the first cutout with the view to it being a practice one and hopefully learn heaps from doing it to make another one with much less anxiety. Thank you so much for your encouraging words.

[@thomask114]

I got into sewing to make my wife a custom corset for a renfaire costume (way too ambitious but hey it worked out) and I had lots of good fabric but I didn’t have a pattern since it was custom so I didn’t want to waste material on practice runs or mock ups because it all felt “too nice to waste” and so I found something that wasn’t. I went to Home Depot and got drop cloth, it was essentially 50 yards of rugged weave for like $10 and it’s literally cloth meant to catch paint stains. No guilt of wasting a material that felt too nice and LOTS of material to practice with. Funnily enough the rugged look of the drop cloth was actually very cool and matched the back in time vibe of the faire and so I ended up using it for the final product and just dying it

[@amandanelson9697]

Fabulous! I buy cheap sheets/curtain panels at thrift stores for cutting out mock-ups. Even if i don't actually sew the sample- it takes away the anxiety when cutting expensive/irreplaceable fabrics :) Fabulous content 👌

[@Iquintero1]

Greetings from Puerto Rico. I love your videos¡ A good tip for conquer the fear for cutting is to buy cheap fabric to practice, just in case.

[@rebeccabrothers8056]

I would like to see a video how she made that adorable blouse she was wearing, she has the neatest blouses!

[@donnaminer9619]

Love your blouses in this video

[@lovecats6856]

As a new sewist, fear of cutting caused me to stare at my fabric for 3 years. I had traced my own pattern from another skirt which I really liked (6 panel gored, each panel is J shaped). Yes, far beyond my skill, but it actually is working out. Just have to argue with the waistband, which I have never made. Talk about jumping in the deep end!

[@luzshemonek5708]

Many thanks!! Answered all my questions!! It’s Like your reading my mind! I’m still experiencing first cut anxiety 😂😂😂 (the struggle is fkn real!) but it’s coming soon!!!!

[@Linnea2264meetspenelopie]

Thank you for this video! You have been such an inspiration and so much help!!!

[@SandPell123]

Very good info.

[@riseabove5208]

Loved this, needed this. ❤

[@randamanda7]

You have encouraged me so much with this vid - I felt like you were speaking directly to me. Thank you for all your vids!!

[@christinepease890]

thank you, Evelyn, have a beautiful Easter weekend

[@margiecook6379]

As usual great information. I love that you are so practical!

[@conqueringmountscrapmorewi2509]

Such awesome info! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@liznotslow]

Omg, I love the so what then idea! I'm definitely going to do that!

[@pollydolly9723]

Great advice Evelyn! Your risk mitigation strategies will work. We do have to get out of our own way sometimes.

[@marionlacey1074]

Watching this great video (and getting a laugh from all the comments because it is so relatable) makes me so glad I joined your sewing school Evelyn! 🐾

[@elizabethkeogh2449]

Loved this practical and inspiring video. I think I'll start doing mock ups.

[@GaliadelaRosa]

YES, cutting anxiety is real! I don't face it as much while making personal proyects but while making customers proyects, i am specially anxious about getting the fabric measurments wrong, because in the past i had make wrong calculations and ended up making multiple trips to the fabric store and losing profit but after seeing this video o realize i have come a long way and hadnt got the fabric cuantities wrong in years. Certain things have helped me like leaving things like cutting, measuring and patternmaking for the moring hours, when im fresh and theres lots of light in the workshop and also making diagramas/drawings, seeing a graphic representation really helps me visualize and make better calculations or troubleshoot

[@chantallajeunesse5873]

Great tips 👍

[@jessi88lee]

My dad finally got a quilt I had bought the charm packs for (5+ years ago...) with him in mind. I kept changing my mind about the pattern and panicked at least twice in cutting the special fabric. He teared up when I gave it to him, and I'm so glad I finally bit the bullet and made my first quilt for him. Though I think I'll stick to clothing for awhile now haha

[@colieolieoh43]

A wonderful video. Extra bonus points since the "checklist" is included!!! I found my first video of your by honestly searching "what is understitching"; I did this because I was reading the ENTIRE pattern! I've been a subscriber since. :-)

[@ManorandMaker]

Great video. All three tips resonated with me. I do find a full read through of the instructions is a good grounding. It also highlights the tricky or new bits that I want to practice in the mock up (“so that goes through there and gets turned out like this?”). I don’t think I will ever get over the qualms of cutting a really expensive fabric, but preparing well does get me to eventually cut. Thanks!

[@skyew6052]

Late to the party but just wanted to comment that your "so what then" tip sounds an awful lot like the "check the facts" skill in DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy). After assessing the likelihood of your fear occurring, you then do exactly what you said - ask yourself: if my worst fear does come true, what then? We tend to not think past that point so it feels like it would be the end of the world. But it's not! Even the most terrible things - your house burning down, loved ones dying, etc. - are bearable. You can endure them, and life will keep going. My bestie has OCD and is terrified of bed bugs. So we practice this often. If you do get bed bugs, what then? You call the exterminator, and he gets rid of them. I just thought it was cool that your simple little trick is so versatile and helpful in so many other ways! And thanks for the reminder, I'd like to use that skill more often!

[@Applepoisoneer]

I'm legally blind, but I want to sew and wear vintage more than I want to breathe. So my life is just one long bout of cutting anxiety. As such, these tips were incredibly helpful.

[@anonymousmedusa9667]

My cutting anxiety is fear of the cats hearing the paper crinkle.

[@MystiDawn]

Omg I can imagine that fear lol

[@marymoore3585]

Nothing worse than cats on the flimsy tissue pattern!!

[@anonymousmedusa9667]

@@marymoore3585 I have one that figured out how to get inside the envelope and pull the pattern out. I am looking for a house with an extra bedroom to turn into my sewing room. Fingers crossed.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

🤣🤣 I hear alot about the troubles of sewing with cats!

[@scorpioninblue]

I tell you cats are a trip! They could be in a whole separate part of the house or apartment but the moment you take out your pattern and lay your fabric down, they're right there ready to lounge and sprawl all over everything! I always kept a spray bottle of water ready whenever I got started, since she would casually ignore my demands to move! LOL!

[@kogabear1]

I had a shirt I was going make, cut it out but never finished it. I should have just plowed into it but I never did. I had assembly anxiety. It sat folded in a bin, mocking me for years, watching me as I completed project after project. Finally I had had enough. I took out the pins, used the buttons for another project and just tossed what was left of my attempted first try in the trash. I've made other shirts like it and countless other things but that particular one was just a no go. I've talked to others and they say the same thing, just let it go.

[@swifthealy2021]

Thank you so much for your sharing, this is amazing 🎨🎼🙏🏿🌻🤔