7 things to NOT do as a beginner at sewing! Don’t make these common mistakes!

It’s easy to find lists of tips, hints and things to do when starting to learn to sew but what about the things NOT to do? Let’s talk about my 7 top things not to do as a beginner at sewing and why not to do them.
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2:14 Don't use stretchy fabric!
3:49 Avoid trying to ‘just add or subtract fabric to the side seams’ to make something bigger or smaller!
6:14 Don't use different seam allowances
8:07 Don’t assume the sewing pattern has all the information you need to sew something together
10:22 Don't skip the pressing
11:48 Don’t ignore the grainline and/or layout instructions
13:39 Don’t sew late at night, whilst tired or cranky
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// WHAT TO WATCH NEXT:
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• 4 FABRICS ALL SEWING B...
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• SICK OF COPYING THE SE...
What is the grain of fabric? What is the grainline? And how to find and use it! - Sewing Terminology
• What is the grain of f...
What is a Seam Allowance? Sewing Terms - Learn sewing terminology
• What is a Seam Allowan...
6 PROFESSIONAL SEAM FINISHES you can do without a serger or overlocker! (Try something new!)
• 6 PROFESSIONAL SEAM FI...
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• What is a seam? Sewing...
#1 WAY TO MAKE YOUR SEWING LOOK MORE PROFESSIONAL... plus (spoiler!) 3 tips on pressing and ironing!
• #1 WAY TO MAKE YOUR SE...
TOP 5 MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN LEARNING TO SEW // Advice to my beginner sewer self!
• TOP 5 MISTAKES TO AVOI...
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#learntosew #sewingclothes #beginnersewing #sewingforbeginners #garmentsewing

[@lorettatollefson7010]

Rule #8: don't sew while hungry. Even when you're not a beginner. Most of my mistakes happen when I kept going instead of stopping for lunch.

[@misslesterb]

Or when it's past your bedtime. I have learned that the hard way for sure.

[@ruth3082]

@@misslesterb me too 😂

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

Or tired earlier. I don't have the endurance I once had!

[@kathrynd1936]

#8 Don’t cut out your fabric before you’ve washed it! (Unless of course it’s a fabric you won’t wash.) Saves breaking your heart when your garment shrinks the first time you wash it!

[@TheFeralFarmgirl]

Yes. I always hate washing the fabric, because it frays so much in the wash, I feel like I am losing so much fabric. But the payoff is being able to wash the clothes you make after you make them. 😂

[@lindamulhall1055]

@@TheFeralFarmgirl I wash fabric as soon as I get it home. Serge the raw edges together so there is no fraying. Hope this helps you.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

@@TheFeralFarmgirl If it's a long length (3m or more), fold it in half so the raw edges are at one end, then give one side a twist, then zigzag the two raw ends together, not only does it keep the fraying in check but making a mobius strip out of it seems to do a pretty good job of keeping it from getting tangled up in the washer or dryer

[@ArabianShalifa]

@t It still depnds on the fabric. I used to pink all my seams.

[@vivaldi1948]

Yes! I made the cutes slacks eons ago and after I washed them they shrank a lot. Not enough on the bottom hem to fix so it went in the rubbish. Never did that again.

[@TheCratsky]

#8 - set a 30 minute repeat timer whilst sewing. When it goes off, stand up and stretch your shoulders, neck and upper back. A quick 1 minute stretch at regular intervals can help with aches the next day.

[@loveu4e]

This video is more about the things you shouldn’t do

[@leighdesaram]

And during this break it will refresh your concentration. Something I will definitely start and do. its great advice. I've sat for hours slouching and making mistakes then I'll cut corners because I want to hurry up and finish. When actually, I've made a balls up and to put it right, is going to take a miracle... lol

[@Breakability]

@@loveu4e don't not do this

[@juliepowell5941]

Excellent advice!

[@TheEvie202]

@TheCratsky Thank you 🙏 for this. Will do:)😊

[@kobaltkween]

I would say the biggest, most common mistake in learning anything is being afraid of mistakes and over focusing on avoiding them. People think that young brains are the big difference between child and adult learners. In my experience, it's that children and young people are expected to mess up new things and so they're not afraid of that. Adults, on the other hand, automatically try to skip the stick figure stage. Especially women. We tend to treat mistakes as embarrassing, and embarrassment as worse than physical harm. So beginner mistakes often either trap us in the preparation phase or make us give up due to a "lack of talent." Let your mistakes teach you, not discourage you.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Haha, this!!! Every time someone compliments any of the skills I'm mediocre at but at least willl try to do, I maintain that I'm not good, just persistent. My sensei at my dojo says, "Make mistakes! Make big glorious mistakes! You learn better from the big ones!"

[@lilianmatheson3664]

I love your comment. We all need to remember that. It is okay to make mistakes because that is how we learn.

[@lisagray6148]

My perfectionistic brain has kept me from starting sewing as an adult for so long now and I desperately needed to hear this. Thank you!

[@FilthySoapCore]

Yeah have a laugh Make fun of yourself sometimes Dont take life too seriously

[@readonlymemories]

I needed to hear this. Thank you

[@sandybush1661]

Make sure you have plenty light. Also, always sew a sample with the same type of scrap fabric, every time you switch threads, switch stitches (regular to zig zag, for example) every time you get your machine out to start a new project, etc.

[@teleriferchnyfain]

😂 oh dear. I switch stitches a lot - I know my machine & my fabrics well enough that the only time I check is when I’m doing fancy embroidery (I’ve a Pfaff with 125 stitches) or some other unusual thing going on. Buttonholes or top stitching with decorative thread, etc. if I did a sample every time I switched from straight to zig zag omg 😳 that would be pointless for me

[@gigiflame6454]

Just live the way you explain and your mannerisms. Also, love that you are speaking properly and not adding in vulgar language that I hear from others, it's such a turn off. Not all of us use or wish to hear vulgar language. Just wanted to let you know I appreciate your care with your language and explanations.

[@nancyhurt7145]

I’ve been sewing for 50 plus years. The past 5-10 years with KZbinrs like you showing skills has been a game changer for me. Who knew I was a visual learner! My skills are top notch and I keep learning with each day and sew gorgeous garments and bags. Unpicking is still a daily event! Enjoy the journey with each step!❤

[@amysbees6686]

#7: Variation on my husband's advice: "Put down the [fill in the blank], and slowly back away." This REALLY works!

[@cindyrogers918]

I’ve been sewing since 8 yrs old. I made almost all my clothes in high school. I’ve made every single mistake in the book, I think I invented a few new mistakes! But I learned through it all, I was never afraid try anything. Still learning new things.

[@vitogriffin8902]

I decided to start learning how to sew out of the blue a few weeks ago... Right now I'm at the stage where I have a new appreciation for being able to just go buy things that are already made... sewing is way harder than I thought.

[@luciatat4084]

😅we all go through that stage becouse for some reason we believe sewing or any other art is very easy to do :)) only when we start to learn that skill do we see what it takes :)

[@theplussizecostumer]

First of all, don't give up if it's something you really want to do. Just take it slowly and don't rush. If you can, find someone in your area who sews and has been for quite a few years. They can help you one on one more quickly than waiting for a reply from someone online. That's not to say videos aren't helpful, it's just sometimes you need someone leaning over your shoulder.

[@vitogriffin8902]

@@theplussizecostumer I'm definitely going to stick with it. I jumped in a little deeper than I could swim and saw some videos of people who knew what they were doing making things they knew how to make, and the very first thing I did had zippers and interfacing and a liner and straps and boxed corners..I don't even have a zipper foot and the only stitches I'd sewn were a couple rows down a scrap just to make sure the machine I got off Craigslist worked and that I had threaded it properly... took me about 10 hours to cobble together an awful attempt at something I could buy on Amazon for 10 bucks, and then I used it to practice with the seam ripper for the next 10 minutes... I've made a few other things since that also kinda suck, but I learn some things and get better at some things every time. There's a lot of details and how's and why's and why not's involved that I have to encounter and walk through with the learning process, but it's still fun and I can picture a lot of cool stuff I can make when I get the hang of it so that keeps me excited and positive about it.

[@new-wardrobe]

Sewing is not for everyone, but that is not to say you can't learn it. It is a journey. People sew for a thousand different reasons. I sew to continue learning (now working with my own patterns) making my wardrobe unique. Sewing lessons are a must today. Remember many of us “older sewists” learn as children in school.

[@catherinerw1]

Another fairly long-time sewist here: knowing WHY some things are "don't do this" makes all the difference! So; "if you don't follow the grain line the garment will be wonky" is much better than "you must follow the grain line" :)

[@leeway3739]

Longtime sewer, pattern maker, etc. When I was learning, I definitely have done all of the things she mentioned at least once lol. There is something to be said for doing the "wrong" things and seeing your project turn out not great and realizing it was because of the "wrong" thing you did. Just being told these things are wrong and even understanding why is very different from experiencing it happen to you in real time. My main point is for newbies to not berate themselves for going against all this super helpful advice. Sometimes you just need to do it wrong before you do it right.

[@shellseakr3114]

Buy fabric on sale to make a fitting garment. I use to hate to spend the money on that but it is well worth the expense. You can sew it, rip it apart, readjust it until it works for you. Then adjust your pattern from that for your wearable garment.

[@paraboo8994]

I used to skip the pressing or do it half-heartedly and the garments were all the worse for it. It's so counterintuitive, because you think you'll put the garment in the wash anyway but a good press works miracles! Also spray starch! Always have a bottle of that handy 😂

[@suek7086]

I learned that pressing each seam actually sets the seams.

[@glowingpeestain]

these are all such good tips! the only one I would say to throw a little bit of caution to the wind with(within reason) is the "don't pick difficult fabrics" if you are following a specific pattern, absolutely use fabrics that the pattern was built for. but my first sewn "garment" project was a spandex bodysuit that required a complicated seam along the center front for a cosplay(Shego, from Kim Possible) the fabric was indeed a nightmare to work with, there was lots of frustration, but I always kept coming back to it. That was the costume I wanted to make, If I had decided to wait till I was inspired by something I could do in a cotton fabric I never would have actually finished a project, because what I wanted was the thing I saw in my head. If you have something that really inspires you, think logically, and research a ton, but don't let it being hard deter you from starting to sew completely

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Yeah, I did a lot of early projects with stretchy fabrics and at least a little stretch can hide a multitude of sins!

[@sus8e462]

Yes, point should have been--for a beginner--don't pick a pattern requiring harder to work with fabrics.... But even before that: Learn about what each fabric type is!

[@cliftonmcnalley8469]

I think cosplay is an exception to that rule. My neice began cosplay at age 14 - 2 decades ago. I don't think she would have shown any interest in sewing otherwise as her mom, my sister, has zero knowledge or desire. My neice sewed with no fear because no one told her certain things "can't be done." It was 5 years before she purchased a commercial pattern and she didn't care much for the experience.

[@lesliedickinson]

If you are attracted to a “difficult” fabric make sure to get tools to help you be successful, such as an overlocker for knits. It could also be as simple as a foot designed for the type of fabric. I mostly wear and sew with knits, so that’s what I learned to sew. If I’d started with woven fabrics I would have given up because it’s not something I wear much.

[@new-wardrobe]

I agree with you, but I also understand how difficult fabric can frustrate a beginner. However, if you do not use different fabrics, then how will you learn? I love stretchy fabric. Shiny and slippery fabric taught me to use a walking foot, this item holds the material in place. Also, if you make costumes, then you need to use different fabrics, especially for cosplayers. Just let the journey begin.

[@sharryjones5200]

Pressing is the difference between home made and hand made. It is a huge difference in the end results.

[@DonnaAskins]

I want to give this another thumbs up. And another one. It is painfully obvious when people don't press.

[@brendasorenson6186]

You are exactly right; if things aren't going the right way (late at night, machine acting up, fabric being a pain, frustrated, grumpy, etc), step away. Things will be much better after a needed break. And, as many have said, it is a huge mistake to think mistakes don't happen, for they do even for the most experienced sewer.

[@sw6118]

Don’t cut your fabric after dinner. Prep it, pin it, but cut it in the morning.

[@sarahlarson8335]

Great advice. I especially agree with the don't sew when you're tired or cranky. I would add a few things, first, it's a safe factor as well, especially if you have a serger/overlocker. Also, I've been guilty of making harder to fix mistakes with my serger blade cutting something it shouldn't have when I was in need of a break. Next, I still sometimes struggle with this one, don't make sewing a chore. Particularly at first, don't set yourself hard deadlines and be realistic with your goals. Think of it more as, I would like to give myself so much sewing time per week instead of I would like to sew a certain number of garments in a certain amount of time if you do like goals. Last, once your past the basics, there's not a set order in which you need to learn new skills. Add skills at the pace and time that works for you, and based on what you like to wear and sew.

[@The_momur]

We had sewing, cooking, wood shop, metal shop, electronics units back when I was a middle school student. Each is an extremely important life tool. Our first sewing project was to make a faced drawstring laundry bag with our name embroidered for identification. It’s a very good place to start. Your observations are very valuable. I used a denim-looking chambray with a blue floral print facing.

[@rodentary]

9. Wash fabric before sewing. I still remember finishing a dress before a work party, washing it to test the seams and then being horrified how much it shrunk.

[@ceilconstante640]

Thank you! So glad I've watched this video. Honestly haven't sewed in 30 years. My Mom no longer here to help me.

[@kaiakoa]

Always thread your machine with the presser foot locked up. Having the presser foot down engages the tension unit. We want to thread the machine with zero tension in the top (bobbin tension is fine), otherwise the thread might not sit in the tension unit correctly. You can tell you have done this if you go to sew and there is a mass of loops on your bottom stitches.

[@winrus2016]

I'VE BEEN HAVING THIS ISSUE FOR SO LONG THANK YOU😭😭😭 You've literally solved my crisis, I thought it was my machine at this point. Thank you so so much kind stranger ❤

[@tracybingham7739]

Oh my goodness! This happened to me last night after I wound a new bobbin. I don’t know if my foot was up or down but when I sewed a collar I had a massive nest under the entire thing! I rethreaded my machine because I had to after cutting the mess and it worked fine afterwards. Now I know what happened! Thank you so much!!

[@juliepowell5941]

This has happened to me so often and I never knew why. THANK YOU!

[@robinallison2862]

I'm not a beginner, but I always love watching all your videos! I learn new things and are reminded of lessons lost!

[@obara7366]

When I was learning to sew in the beginning (unfortunately went back to art school and haven't had the time to sew in over a year) I definitely was very guilty of almost all of these. After I found out about grain line though, I did my best to never fail that step again. My #1 sin from this list is sewing while frustrated. I have ADHD and a low frustration tolerance as a result of it so I'm very prone to breaking down and crying while sewing. Especially because the school I was at went at a punishing pace (that they were proud of), so I never had the time to relax and take my time.

[@helenlane5664]

Well keep going , it's not a race , you are sewing for yourself and make your own pace , l like to the process of making something so cherish the time it takes me to make things, if I don't do it right, I unpick and redo , we all have our own ways to do things and stick to that , no pressure, if you are getting upset, stop and go and do some tidying up or get a drink , l am often so absorbed in what l am do l dont realise l haven't had a drink so often thirsty . I go back refreshed and then see what I haven't seen before.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Yeah when I sewed when I was younger it was a necessary evil to get a thing I wanted done, then I discovered I didn't hate sewing, I hated my sewing machine... started hand sewing in 2020 and I've used a machine for I think four projects since. Take your time and enjoy the creation, now that you're not being pushed by a course. So felling the seams on my latest shirt took me a week, whatever. The time I spend stabbing fabric, I'm not trying not to stab people!! :) You don't have a deadline (well, except when you set them yourself), so just enjoy the process, and if you're getting frustrated, put it down for a while, you don't HAVE to do it NOW. Even if ADHD brain says you do, at least take a short tea/coffee/cookie/bunny/kitty/puppy/facebook/youtube break and come back to it.

[@sinlobo84]

I find this SO relatable!! Currently fighting feelings of failure 'cos I rarely finish a project on time (we're supposed to sew one garment a week, pray for me)

[@miaochs7716]

When I tired and especially frustrated- I stop for the day and try to go for walk outside or go watch a favorite tv show on demand. I’ll tackle it with fresh eyes tomorrow

[@Mrs.Patriot]

Laying out with the grain is key! Even when I buy clothes, I always make sure the grain runs straight down the pants legs, and check the grain line and hems of shirts to make sure they're straight. Otherwise the garments twist and that looks so tacky. Gravity will pull the fabric straight down so lay out and cut your pieces out the way the pattern shows. Also, just set up your iron when you start, and it'll be ready for your pressing!

[@sandlappersue01]

Thank you for all of these videos. I used to sew many years ago (many years of sewing Easter dresses until the wee hours of Easter morning) but life got busy with seven children and a home to run and I stopped. Here we are now and my 16 year old want to sew a dress. We've cut out the pattern and material and tomorrow we will sit in front of the machine and go step by step, with the seam ripper close by. With many prayers hopefully we can do this! 😂 I am thankful for her desire to learn.

[@teresadejong3011]

As always, you've nailed it! The only thing I'd add is: when you break thread, skip stitches or have any other problem -- start by removing both the top and bottom thread and rethread from the beginning. Trying to cut corners by just rethreading usually doesn't fix it and could aggravate the problem. Rethread, rethread, rethread.

[@aprilday668]

My mum was a tailor and taught me to sew. I made my own clothes into my late 40s (even making my own interview suits and clothes for my children - I was told that my son was the best dressed child in primary school). I diversified into industrial embroidery (know how fabrics work) and made a career out of that. I haven't been well dressed since lockdown but, yes, pressing is very important. Love your vids.

[@evelynsoha7178]

"Attempting to sew your own wedding dress" should be added to this list for silly people like me 😅 very bad decision, I have no idea what I'm doing. But your tutorials and information have been helping immensely! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge 💕

[@helenlane5664]

Gosh you are brave, that was one thing l didn't do , l bought my dress and got them to do alterations, I e ,shorten the dress ,I had a lovely lady who made my bridesmaid's dresses, waistcoats for the page boys and ties etc , l have sewn since school but l know my limitations, knew l wouldn't have the time and had other parts of the wedding to plan

[@mireillebibli1651]

😂😂😂

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Ooooohhhh, I almost did that, thank heavens I found the dress of my dreams in a clearance bin at clearance prices!!

[@chairmanmeowapproves]

hhaha I am about to buy a sewing maching this week to start my wedding dress...never ever used one before or made any clothing whatsoever...I'm sure it'll be fine 😬

[@evelynsoha7178]

@@chairmanmeowapproves praying for you haha I know you need it from experience. FYI one thing that has helped me immensely was reaching out to all the older ladies I know. The ones who do or did sew seem to be so thrilled to see a younger person attempting to sew their own garment! They usually offer their help and expertise. One lady gave me a bunch of old fabric to practice with and another person who happened to be a professional beader offered to sew a beaded neckline as my wedding gift! My point is, do not be afraid to reach out to those in your community, most sewists would be happy to help you learn ❤️

[@jacq17fourmil]

Thank you Evelyn :) I think I've done all of the above :D My tip is: Don't use regular scissors for cutting fabric (like I did for many years before buying proper shears :D )

[@TheLballou]

Glad that I read the comments. When I first started to sew, I tried to use craft scissors for cutting out my fabric, what a frustrating disaster! A good pair of shears is s godsend!

[@billminckler6550]

For me, wear eye protection- even if regular eyeglasses (polycarbonate) or inexpensive, lightweight, comfortable safety glasses. Eyesight is a precious gift. Fantastic video and comments! What a great Evelyn community! ❤

[@allisonjenkins5079]

Really enjoying this 'start from scratch' journey. I attempted some very basic garments last year but seem to have lost my confidence to make a start again this year so this is very timely!

[@starshinedragonsong3045]

Looking forward to it

[@russells3444]

I am making a vest and, being a bit wider than on the date I originally bought the pattern, I thought I would simply add additional inches to accommodate my real-time proportions. Thankfully I saw where the pattern had made provision for adding inches (and it was to the middle of various panels, NOT to the edges). I have soooo much to learn. But I am encouraged that my line of thinking has already been explored and their are teachers out there to point us in the right direction. I really am grateful for the work you do! Thank you.

[@dizzyantennae5883]

Hi, Evelyn, I have an idea for a video. Could you possibly review some of the fabric types suggested on patterns that aren't commonly known? Names like lawn, voile, gorgette, crepe de chine, broadcloth, etc. My local fabric store doesn't label the apparel fabric types, so many times, I have no idea what those things are. It'd be great to have some sort of reference for those, or acceptable substitutes. Anyway, thank you so much for teaching us. I really appreciate you 😊

[@denisedorsey2889]

Fabric Savvy is a great book by Sandra Betzina. It goes through SO MANY fabrics, with pictures, how to launder, what type of needle to use, stitch length, presser foot, seam finishes, rotary cutter or scissors, type of interfacing, iron settings….and so much more. It is a fantastic resource and completely worth the $$. I just checked Amazon and there’s a spiral bound version out (it will lay flat) around $20 US, soft bound edition is similarly priced.

[@donnabonfield4542]

Google them. There's SO MUCH information online.

[@dizzyantennae5883]

@@donnabonfield4542 I have, but it's very hard to get a good sense of the fabric from a still image. Things like sheerness, weight, drape, etc.

[@juliecampbell1410]

Find a mentor. We are just waiting to be asked.

[@peacelilly83]

Yes! And perhaps what you could use that is similar-esp for folks who have basic fabric shops like Joann fabric and not Mood NYC.

[@mommatanya1]

I draft patterns using Lutterloh pattern system. I also follow thier Facebook group. Recently someone new to the system asked what order to sew the pieces together. So I answered her question as best as I could. But I am thinking that a topic for sewing basics could be what order do patterns usually have garments sewn together.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

That's a good one. I've made the same shirt pattern six or eight times now (traced off an existing garment I bought when it started to disintegrate) and I don't think I've done the neck facing the same way twice!!

[@smiles8719]

Didn't know that Lutterloh has a Facebook group. Could you share the group name please? Would be nice to join and know from members experience which patterns are beginner friendly and which are more complicated to sew.

[@janetpetersen1938]

I think I made most of these mistakes with the very first garment I made on my own as a teenager. 😀

[@theresalarsen9938]

Remember to buy extra fabric if you are tall and will need to lengthen your pattern.

[@rhodamurphy2097]

I have been sewing for many years and wish you had been around when I started. Your welcome advice can help beginners to avoid costly mistakes that turn a wonderful pursuit into a nightmare experience. Keep up the good work, Evelyn. Ready made clothes are getting uglier every season, and making your own is very gratifying.

[@KimMayroze]

Wishing you a full recovery, Evelyn, and hoping that you can find a way to reduce the side effects of the treatments as much as possible!

[@dianemalek436]

Great video! The tip about not sewing when you are tired, cranky, frustrated, etc. hit home with me. But I find that if I leave it and go to bed sometimes I dream about it and realize what is going wrong and how to fix it. 😂

[@miaochs7716]

6 months into new hobby (sewed for 6 months 40 years ago age 17) Trying to buy 100% cotton fabric on sale so if I don’t like won’t disappointed. Muslins just as expensive as calico on sale. So I try the buy 100% cotton calicos, on sale. Trying to learn darting for upper body fitting. . I’ve made some trial items I enjoy wearing. Learning in progress 6 months down hobbie sewer who works full time. I enjoy the process from picking pattern, picking fabric, ironing fabric tissue, pinning pattern , cutting, marking notches and then sewing. Seam finishes, I trying different type. I prefer French seams and biased tape. It’s the process. I use to do stain glass similar process in theory except glass and solder Keep learning and doing. It’s a creative outlook you can wear. It’s individual, it’s you

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

Darn that’s a good list. I definitely can relate to the don’t sew after… rule. When the kids were little the only time I had was night. It didn’t take long for me to realize while I could sew late I couldn’t do complicated things. So no french seams or set in sleeves and never ever zippers!!

[@stevezytveld6585]

Sewing when drained is the absolute worst. Which leaves a body frustrated with the frustration. How are you doing on this sunny Saturday? I've reached mock-up seven of the vest I'm making for the FR Competition. And I may have simply added more inches to the sides to accommodate the hips. We'll see how this works out in the wearable mock-up. I'm using a stripped fabric so I can better see any wonkiness I've managed to add in. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

@@stevezytveld6585 hey Cathy enjoying the sunshine! Got the grandson outside for fresh air and sunshine. He even did some work. So very nice! Oh the stripes sounds like a great idea! Will definitely show where things are wonky! I’m still feeling behind on everything. Then last week before I left to see the kids I ended up at my local Len’s Mill store just to see the sales. Some of their fabric was 75% off! I bought some. I know I said stash this year but I got some wool viscose blend for almost nothing! And a wool poly for 50% off. Some man made plastic ish stuff to make coats for the dog and kid… or that’s the plan lol. Now I have to wash it all and find a place for it

[@stevezytveld6585]

@@robintheparttimesewer6798 Nice to have time with the grandkiddo. Good for you. Not sure about today, but last night was perfect snow ball weather. I'm behind on everything too. It seems to be the theme of my 50's. Sooo many projects I want to do. Plus, reorganizing the entire apartment and storage space. Meh. Those wool fabrics sound amazing. Because saying no to wool is almost impossible. By-the-by - the truck nuts from last year seem to be in a state of total disarray and back-biting. And I could not be happier. At this point, fingers crossed /wood knocked / prayers said / incense burned, there won't be a repeat of the "trucker" convoy occupation of the city. Relived sigh. Looks like all we'll be waiting for is the Commission report and the class action lawsuit to march through the courts.

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

@@stevezytveld6585 darn Cathy let’s hope we never see the truck nuts or any of their relatives ever again!!

[@stevezytveld6585]

@@robintheparttimesewer6798 Amen. They're too busy infighting to organize. Here's to hoping it stays that way...

[@patriciakellyadams134]

Literally you said don't place the pattern piece against the grain line as I was contemplating not putting a strap pattern piece on a scrap that was not on the correct grainline. Thank you for the push in the right direction.

[@noreenhallett7366]

Was just looking for your video on facings etc and up you popped with this one

[@ljbarros9985]

I just bought my sewing machine, glad I found your channel for my new hobby 😍

[@carlataylor9924]

Thanks for this! As a beginner I can tell you I would have DEFINITELY added or subtracted fabric as a way to "fix" whatever issue i might have! 😂

[@andriaprince5305]

Your tutorials are so amazing. I''m not a beginning sewer, but I'm also not an experience sewer, so your tutorials are so helpful. You talk about things I forgot. If you could please address nap, what is it,? Besides corduroy, which fabrics have it? That is one thing I could never figure out.

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

I agree with following fabric recommendations. I made most of my school clothes in the '60s, and they always looked homemade. It was the fabric my mom made me use. Horrible, cheap stuff with wrong drape. Thanks!

[@ToddlovesCopper]

Thank you for the video! I'm beginning to learn sewing and have only done two small projects (not garments, but a small tote and bowl holder). The second project took me three times longer than more experienced sewists in the group I attended (which is to be expected), but it was great to celebrate progress and then come back and finish it the next day at home. So far, I've found it helpful to, as I'm learning, get excited about little improvements that to more experienced people is a given but for me is definite progress in my skills. It can be easy to get discouraged. For instance, when I was sewing with the group we were making several stitches that were supposed to meet up in the middle. Mine didn't, so I asked questions and got back on track. On the second piece of fabric the seams I sewed did line up on the first try. I got really excited about it. Not taking time to celebrate the little progress and successes can be a big mistake as it's easy to get discouraged when learning something new. Especially something that has so much assumed knowledge of terminology. Celebrate progress, rather than expecting perfection.

[@vdoniel]

Thanks from a 68 yr old beginner in Emanuel County GA

[@coolgirly6454]

Yesssss! My mother teached me, every step: pressing :-)

[@sus8e462]

Thinking about avoiding difficult fabrics--firat thing to learn should be to learn about different fabric weaves & fibers so you know what it means when the pattern says gaberdine or chiffon. Also to Wash First (or pre-shrink)!! (And when not to). The sizing & such used in material processing so it folds onto bolts well does change the "hand"/feel--and worse, a garment you've spent hours to sew then shrinks after first time you wash it ☹️. (yes, been there, done that too).

[@msmgo9062]

As a novice, pressing was not something I thought was needed. Also thought that interfacing was not something that was needed. And I learned after sewing a pant suit, that was so awesome, that washing BEFORE cutting is not something to skip.

[@kathylibby3676]

Sending you love as you heal. Healing light and love.

[@RobertaSharpe]

Thank You for this video. #8 ; Washing the fabric, and also re-emphasize the grain and knowledge of the fabric before you choose it. Many years ago when I first had the desire to sew, I made a green velvet pants and blazer. Big mistake!!! Lesson learned too late. I am going to go through this learning period correctly this time. Back to the cottons!!

[@theplussizecostumer]

One thing I see in some of the videos I watch are some folks skipping the Staystitching. It took me a while to understand the importance of staystitching. Without staystitching any edge of the pattern cut on the bias will invariably stretch. It's just the way it is. And if someone who has not staystitched, say, a neck edge of a bodice which is cut across the grain, they shouldn't be surprised when the neck edge is stretched out of shape and the collar or neck facing is too short and won.t fit. Same for the waistline on a skirt, the sleeve cap, and the armscye. They all need to be staystitched.

[@new-wardrobe]

Oh yes, I also see videos skipping that important step. I staystitch around necks, armholes, sleeve caps, across bodice tops, and also across yolks. 😀

[@helenlane5664]

The best tip is to know when to walk away if tired etc , sometimes it is best to leave till another day, like if the machine is playing up , l won't touch lame ever again, it just frays as soon as you cut ,

[@solarwinds-]

Don't sew when tired! SOOO true!!! I can't tell you how many times I came back the next morning and spotted a mistake I was to make had I not stopped and watched a movie before going to bed instead of pushing on to get the project finished. Saved me so much time and money. Coming back with fresh eyes is so critical.

[@edwinabeewere4583]

Greetings from Nairobi Kenya 🇰🇪 😀 😄 😊 😍 thanks for the tutorial

[@eboneelocke886]

I really appreciate that you not only share the dos & donts but you also share WHY. Thank you for your content! A tik toker shared your channel and I’m so glad she did!

[@websherpa]

I am just finishing up a simple pyjamas pattern (and am at the relative beginning of my sewing journey, just having done a few simple things like bags, and a shirt) and found myself making two mistakes: 1) getting confused about the pattern layout, PARTICULARLY for single cut pieces (think front fly) and their markings. It was hard to figure out between right / wrong side fabric and printed/non-printed side pattern, which way was the right way around for some of the pattern cuts... grrr..., and 2) not realizing that the seam line markings on the sewing machine plate require the needle, in my case, to the far left position (for some stupid reason, as I marked the seam allowance on my last garment which worked out fine). So I managed to sew too small a seam allowance by mistake right to the very end until I started fitting and boom, thinking "this pattern was made for a giant". (Then immediately making the mistake of trying to re-seam the pants after already put together. Sort of work, sort of doesn't but thankfully pyjamas are mainly worn in the dark and under cover!). So my added things NOT to do would be: a) Don't get discouraged by first projects (pick simple ones) they are a learning tool and you will make mistakes and be ripping seams - or make a sample one out of spare fabric first (like I did with my first simple shirt), it gives you a chance to make adjustments both to fit and construction to suit your needs, and to learn the pitfalls ahead of time. b) Don't go out buying every pattern that you "think" you will make (or similar patterns for the same item thinking you can pick amongst them), otherwise you will have a new career selling Patterns in Etsy. I make this mistake every time "only buy what you need, when you need it, it's not a bargain to buy cheaper in advance if you never end up using the thing." And one thing TO DO would be: Realize that taking a break (overnight or even days, weeks or months) allows new knowledge to settle, and new solutions to be thought up. When you come back to an old project or start a new project, that short time needed to "relearn" a past lesson, makes your understanding and skill that much better. I hope this helps someone.

[@new-wardrobe]

Here's a great tip for those fabrics where you can't tell the wrong side from the right side. After I cut out my material and before I remove the pattern pieces, I mark an X on the wrong sides (inside the seam allowance) using a gel pen. Since I finish my seams, that part is cut away. This has saved me hours of ripping out seams.

[@rissyroooh4315]

I’m hoping to start making clothes after my current project. I’m currently making my first quilt and it’s going very well. Of course there’s a few minor mistakes but I’m happy with it.

[@schmoogle7853]

I am pretty new to sewing and so far am not planning to make my own clothes. I just have an awkward size and want to be able to alter shirts/trousers to actually fit me properly. I certainly learned the lesson about not sewing when tired/cranky today. I was trying to alter a pair of trousers that were exceptionally long and had a humongous waist. It said they were 30" but they were more like 36" My waist is 28-30" depending on brand. The material was a super floppy polyester blend that was near impossible to either press a crease into, or remove existing creases from and it took about 8 attempts on the leg hems before I was satisfied with the result. I then tried to take in the waist, completely butchered the waist band and got so annoyed that I threw them on the bonfire! Just as well they were only fake Armani Jeans that I picked up from a charity shop ages ago and would likely have never been a good fit even if I spent loads of money getting them altered. The experience has made me quite scared to even attempt a waist alteration ever again, let alone trying to do my suit jackets. They can go to a tailor as I figure it would be cheaper to pay to have them done than to wreck them and have to buy new suits!

[@TheFeralFarmgirl]

I love the larger seam allowances for patterns. I find the fabrics I always choose fray so much, I need that extra bit so the garment doesn't fall apart.

[@LynHannan]

There's a product called "Sew Stable" (I'm sure there are other brands in other countries), which is a liquid fabric stabilizer. You dilute it according to directions (you can use it neat, but you'll go through the bottle quicker), then paint it on with a brush just where it's needed - in your case, that would be the fabric edge of about half a cm. Let it dry (hair dryer can help); stitch, neaten and press as you normally would, then wash the garment to remove the stabilizer!

[@helenasmityukhe420]

@@LynHannan Thank you for this tip! Fraying edges is also a problem I have to deal with often.

[@meganmills6545]

You can add to the seam allowance when cutting out - what's important is your stitching line so if your pattern has a 1.5cm seam allowance and you want 2cm add 1/2cm all around and stitch a 2cm seam allowance - your stitching line won't change. Very old patterns gave you the stitching line, not the cutting line, and you decided what seam allowance you thought was best. If you add to your seam allowance remember to space your pattern pieces further apart when you lay them out. If you have an overlocker you can cut all your pieces as given in the pattern and overlock all around them before beginning construction. Do it so that the edge of the cut fabric runs just shy of where the knife would cut it and it won't change your seam allowance for construction. Be careful not to stretch out or shrink up your fabric as you go, that's all. The bonus is you'll find a lot of your seams are already "finished" for you as you construct the item. If you don't have an overlocker check to see if your ordinary machine has an overcast stitch, many do. If yours has a special foot to use with the overcast stitch it makes a big difference.

[@TheFeralFarmgirl]

@@LynHannan Thanks! I actually found that clear school glue works just as well for a temporary fray check. I am using it right now on a fabric that is loosely woven, and frays horribly. It so far has worked perfectly!

[@ultimatelife5167]

You are such a beautiful talker, just love listening to you 💕

[@lucilledaub5991]

Thanks for your sewing knowledge.

[@1TsuNami]

I get hung up with seam allowance. I have to get better with this. Thank you for the great tips.

[@junejohnstone973]

Thank you for this , I’m desperate to sew with knits , but haven’t done any proper dressmaking in years

[@denisedorsey2889]

Honestly, I think you should give knits a go, if you aren’t a completely inexperienced sewist. Grab an old knit shirt , cut it apart and practice sewing it. You can use your zig zag stitches or an overcast stitch if your machine has it. Use a needle for knits (ball point) and just practice. Take notes, keep samples, test it all out. Double brushed polyester is an “easy” knit to use, it lays flat for you almost sticks to itself to make seaming easy. Lots of free tshirt patterns available in pdf format. Try it out!

[@agcons]

I'll add to your caution about using different seam allowances if I may: as long as we are mindful of the stitching line and cut a narrower or wider allowance as desired we'll be OK. I realise this could be just another thing to remember for a beginner, but I learned to sew primarily with Burda patterns decades ago when we had to add the seam allowances before cutting. I kept a cheat-sheet next to the machine to remind me what allowance to use when stitching, and this worked for me. I much prefer a narrow allowance for assembling collars, for example, and on standard patterns I'll trim the allowance on the pattern pieces before laying out and cutting. What I'll never do is mix them: pieces that are to be sewn together will have the same allowance width, whatever width I prefer.

[@LeannaRuthJensen]

This video makes me grateful to my mother and grandmother who taught me with love the right way to sew and let me ask a gazzillion questions. I would add. Don't think you can't ask for help. Asking for advice helps you avoid these beginner pitfalls and saves time and frustration.

[@johnbeard2704]

I'm so excited to find your channel! I've wanted to learn to sew for years, but several ridiculous reasons have kept me from it. NO LONGER! Whilst redecorating my living room, I decided to add curtains to two small windows flanking my mantel/fireplace. I want them to match the sheers that are a part of the main window dressing. I thought, how perfect would it be to match the fabrics (they have an embroidered detail I love)? The problem is, I bought the sheers at a discount store and can't purchase any additional ones. I don't really need all of the sheers in the main window, so I thought I'd steal one to make the two small curtains. I found a vintage machine at a local thrift store that appeared to be fully functional...it may not be. In attempting to work out the issues with the machine, I thought "why am I doing this"? I'm sure that even if I get this working correctly, it will still have limitations based on its age. Ultimately I decided to just purchase a new machine and get this hobby started correctly! I've purchased a nice Singer model (that I'm already in love with). I selected it using the suggestions you made in another video. I am planning to join your online school, but I need to finish setting up my workspace first. I'm kiiiind of OCD when it comes to projects and work, so I'm not tempted in the slightest by shortcuts...but I'll remember these warnings! I've previewed several channels in my research, and you are...by far...my favorite. I can't wait to watch more and ultimately get started in your school! Thanks a million!

[@rivergalen4020]

My tip only applies if your pattern does not include seam allowance: use 2 different colours of marking tools. 1 for the sewing line (tracing the pattern) and 1 for the seam allowance (cutting line)

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

Ooh, good idea. I sometimes do that already, when I even bother to mark my cut lines. I'm so inconsistent at marking, cutting and stitching that I now cut the seam allowance off my patterns and just draw the stitch lines, makes it way easier to pin together that way too.

[@fReAkLaNcEr123]

This is what I do exactly.

[@jacquelinebataille8106]

Thank you for this video. I really do agree about ironing/pressing, I am hysterical about it. For us,here in France seam allowance is 1 centimeter. By the way thank you too for giving metric measurements. That is the reason why I have just subscribed. Next step is having a look at your sewing courses.

[@mariannem8419]

I once bought a beautiful plaid fabric at an outlet store. I couldn't believe I could be so lucky because it cost very little money. I wanted to make a wrap-around skirt. Big mistake. I was so excited about getting the fabric that I didn't notice that it was badly woven. There was no way I would ever get the lines of the plaid to match up. I threw away the fabric. Lesson learned.

[@vivaldi1948]

Excellent tips. Especially the one about being tired. I'll give myself one mistake and then it's time to call it quits. By going on when tired I find I not only start making more mistakes but start to dislike the project and may set it aside and never pick it up.

[@paulamiller8386]

I have made everyone of these mistakes at one time or other. I learnt the hard way that sewing too lae at night leads to mistakes. It is also very painfull because you end up pricking your fingers more with the needles and pins. I also have to add that if the greain is of on a garment then there is no amount of fixing that can be done to make it lie right other than re cutting it on the straight grain. I once bought a dress from a charity shop that I really liked the look of but could see it needed altering. I could not recut it as I did not have the right fabric. After several attempts it went in the bin. Lesson learned. I also have to thank my mum, grandma and aunty for a lot of my sewing knowledge. They taught me a lot growing up. This included how to follow a pattern and what the instructions actually mean. So many mistakes. So much frustration. Still one of the most rewarding hobbies I have tried.

[@Rotten_Ralph]

🦋🪡🧵 I’m working towards my WIP/mending piles trying to clear them up before I jump into something new.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

For the last year or two, I've had to set myself a rule: one thing has to come off the mending pile, one thing out of the UFO box and one sock darning session must be performed before scissors touch fabric for a new project. Otherwise things get unmanageable!!

[@Rotten_Ralph]

@@bunhelsingslegacy3549 good rule I’m just trying to get back into my sewing room, I’m paralyzed from starting anything new but hopefully I can finish something old and the rest will flow

[@teresahaven9222]

@@bunhelsingslegacy3549 It's amazing to even hear from a person that still darn socks!!!! That, along with tatting, seems to be a lost art!!

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

@@teresahaven9222 LOL less so, as my father in-law taught me to darn the holes in my thick fuzzy not cheap socks, so I am teaching any of my friends who have similar issues!! I'm probably still the only one who darns my cotton sweat socks though.

[@hey_virginia]

y'all are so much more reasonable and rational than I am with my sewing queue 😅 #goals

[@lydia4652]

Love the blouse. Would you be so kind to share the pattern.

[@Ms.LindsayLu]

I didn’t realize the layout was important I just thought they were trying to not use up too much fabric haha , now I know ❤

[@jennifers5778]

I love vintage sewing school for the past year. Learning happily.

[@lindamulhall1055]

The big issue with adding to the sides is that if the pattern has a bodice and sleeves, the sleeves also need to be altered to match the new side seams.

[@sofiasomerstein5452]

Evelyn, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I have a question. You mentioned patterns are not for beginners; so then, where do I begin?

[@bonbonbeads]

I think I have done every single one of these ... 😁

[@lindaalexis9744]

Hi Evelyn Wood just Glad to hear your advice what clothes to start with fabric so now I learning from you I love to have you on video chat thanks to you

[@karenmcdaniel708]

Very helpful info...thank you.

[@rodentary]

As someone who is having trouble sewing more structured fabrics i would say fabric with a bit of a stretch is better. Fitting it a challenge when there is less give.

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

Pressing and Ironing are not "sort of" the same thing. If you iron an item with raw edges you can/will stretch/distort the fabric. I have ironed ready made garments a full size bigger (by ironing the bubbles out of the seams). Plus, I ironed creases into a pair of jeans so many times that the fabric came apart on the crease lines. Ironing can make many fabrics shine (where you where you may not want an iron shine). Pressing takes more time than ironing. I press to set the seams, to get unwanted wrinkles out, set hems, to make crisp edges/points, to correct distorted fabric, to fuse in interfacing, and to open my seams.

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

I've managed to get shine while pressing too, not really sure why either, but at least it was on the inside of the garment.

[@lilianmatheson3664]

I guess she meant to us, new innsewing, that you use the iron. Since is "kind" we should look more into it to know what is it and what to do.

[@new-wardrobe]

Thank you for this video. Many of us learned to sew in our teen years because it was a class in school, and are a bit shocked by today’s patterns. In school, the patterns actually did teach a person how to sew. Sewing is a skill and lessons jumpstart that skill.

[@dsego1183]

OMG #7 really hit home. I don’t know how many times I have pushed through making different projects only to find out in the morning I sewed the wrong side to the right side together or, didn’t really match up seams correctly or, some other weird mistake only because I didn’t take a break or, cut myself off and getting some rest with fresh eyes. Uugh Thank you so much this video I’ve probably gone through all of those in the past three years (and more) all because I’ve seen something I like and thought “ I can do that”… 😂 OMG🤦🏻‍♀️ thanks again.

[@jeanwestackroyd2966]

Going to love this series, thanks !

[@sandraaslanoglu5596]

Hi, I can admit, I made nearly all of them. While watching the video, I laughed so hard, because of the memories it brought up 😅 My sewing teacher told us..iron...iron...iron guarantees half the success. What did I think...phh what does she know?? It's so much quicker without 😅 yea it wasn't, because I had to rip it up and start over... The layout to cut with the grain? I agreed when there was a print on the fabric, but who needs it for solid colors, right? Well, I made a shirt and you can imagine that it was horrible 😂 I used it just for sleeping then, but it was so uncomfortable because how the fabric did behave. The slippery fabric was another one, I wanted to make a blouse and even cutting was a nightmare. In the end I was so frustrated that I gave up. I still keep my distance from thin, airy viscose. And then fine jersey fabric double nightmare: stretchy and slippery... don't ask😂 Lessons hard learned and God bless my sewing teacher who always helped me to sort out the mistakes that wouldn't have happened if I would have listened to her in the first place

[@obara7366]

I've been a fan of your channel since I took sewing classes for a little over half a year in 2021. I want to ask: I learned to draft my own patterns and tailor them specifically to those bodies, and do not like store bought patterns much as my body is usually different store sizes top and bottom.. Would Vintage sewing school still be for someone like me?

[@lynnshepard7485]

Definitely yes! I’m experienced and I regularly learn more in Vintage Sewing School.

[@jinnyh]

You are truly a savior!

[@teresahaven9222]

I often craft (sew, crochet, tat, etc) late at night, when I'm tired. It usually only lasts for 10 or 20 minutes but it seems I do my best work. The house is quiet, kids are asleep, chores are done, I'm ready to relax. None of my crafts get done very quick lol!!! Years and years ago I was making my adult size daughter a Halloween costume, sort of a floor length witches gown and reversible hooded cape. I was running short of time because of a family illness taking up time and so I called on 1 knowledgeable schoolmate of my daughter and 2 church members that supposedly knew what they were doing. The dress turned out perfect but the cape, which I had provided the alteration marks on the pattern pieces, (16 yards of satin) ended up with 2 of the panels cut upside down and when sewn together side by side with all the other right side up panels, you could see a color difference. Luckily, I had bought extra fabric of both colors so we were able to pull out the stitches on the problem panels, cut out the pieces again, and re-sew. I was SO HAPPY I had insisted all seams be only basted!!! After all the scare, it turned out beautiful!!!!

[@shawna2boys716]

Thank you Evelyn ❤

[@sharonwhiteman6874]

Thank you for helping us get started and get better

[@hakapelika7024]

Test the stitch...

[@pleasebekind9115]

Thank you for this! You are spot on with all of them. 😄

[@kellieb8865]

"No sewing after 9pm" is rule I put in because making a mistake on one of the last steps because you're so close to finishing and just want to get it done... can ruin a lot of hours of work 😞

[@pamelahaltmeyer.1288]

Once in college (please try to forget), I had an important date for an all-Saturday and Saturday night civic event. I decided to make a dress the night before---what could go wrong? Stayed up all night. Had bloodshot eyes and brain fog for the entire event. Fell asleep in the car on the way home--disaster. :).