How to get started sewing your own clothes from the VERY start! ✂ (or re-start the right way!)

Fantasize about learning to sew your own clothes? or RE-learning how to sew the right way? Let's chat about where to start, from the very start on how to get started sewing your won clothes the right way!
✂
Enroll in my FREE class and learn all about setting up your sewing machine, threading and getting started sewing!
at VINTAGE SEWING SCHOOL : www.vintagesewingschool.com
✂
2:21: Finding a sewing machine and learning how to use it.
3:37: Tools and equipment you need.
4:46: Choosing fabric to sew with
7:15: Picking your first projects
9:58: The 3 P’s - Practice, Patience, Persistence
// LINKS:
* Get my SEWING GUIDES
The best topics, tips, and tricks I talk about, in order, organized and all searchable! evelynwood.retrieve.com/store/#/
*My favourite SEWING SUPPLIES: www.amazon.com/shop/evelynwoodtv
*Sign up for my newsletter and get free access to my crash course to learn to sew! www.evelynwood.com.au/signup
// WHAT TO WATCH NEXT:
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• SEWING BEGINNER STARTE...
Trying 5 new sewing tools for the first time! (I'm definitely keeping some!)
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TOP 10 SEWING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT IN MY SEWING KIT I WOULDN'T WANT SEW WITHOUT!
• TOP 10 SEWING TOOLS AN...
Think you’re not cut out for sewing clothes? I promise you CAN learn, you just need the 3 P’s! 😃
• Think you’re not cut o...
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#learntosew #sewingforbeginners #sewingclothes

[@amarug]

I am a 40 year old guy, a mechanical engineer, and I have never been interested in tailoring or fashion until a few months ago. I was just walking down the city and suddenly felt the urgent urge to learn how to make and alter clothes. 😂😅 I got a simple Singer machine and found your channel and I have to thank you already! Your content is amazing, so helpful and well presented. I'm progressing quite well and looking forward to soon start making a simple dress for my wife (she seems very excited about my new mini hobby😅).

[@Pausereflectandbreathe]

Wow! That’s amazing!

[@janetbooth798]

I have been sewing for many years. Very recently, my 33-year-old daughter told me she wants to start sewing clothes for herself. She remembers the days when she could pick out the pattern and the fabric and I would sew the clothing for her. I have shared this video with her in hopes that it will motivate her to get started.

[@namatayic5]

hey, hows the sewing going

[@Blablabla44475]

Oh my gosh that is the sweetest thing I’ve seen all day. Making a dress for your wife. Bless you, sir. Your wife is a lucky woman! Im a 35 year old woman, been knitting and crocheting for just over a year, and I want to make a nice sweater or a pair of slacks for my husband. That kind of love/gift is the most memorable! Good luck on your sewing journey!

[@uMnumzane]

I'm 37y old. I'm a biotechnologist and chemical operator. I got interested earlier this year

[@calmblueocean1177]

I started sewing in Oct 2022. The first thing I made was a pair of pants 👖 with a drawstring (my fabric was a thrifted bedsheet). Turned out great! Truthfully, I watched a ton of youtube videos. First, I learned step by step how to operate and thread 🧵 my machine. BEFORE I cut my first pattern I was nervous on how to fold the fabric, so I watched a video! Learn the basics BEFORE you start. That will set you up for success. Evelyn Wood is a good resource. Happy sewing journey! ❤🎉

[@imagamerchick]

That's a great idea about thrifting sheets to use as fabric! I'll be checking my local thrift stores now, thank you!💖

[@Gilded-girl]

Very cool! That’s encouraging. I’m like 9 th grade home ec level in my 50’s. 😂

[@rachelalexandra1661]

Thank you I was wondering what to check next! 😊

[@Yomamas824]

That’s a great idea, I want to make some nightshirts and sheets would be great for that

[@asdfgidji879]

here i am getting ready to cut up a shirt and make some socks lol, theyre gonna suck and probably wont fit but im not concerned about any of that just yet. I wish i could do well learning in a standard way but i ned to see the complex before the simple fully clicks i find plus i just cant bring myself to spend much time practicing on just a plain nothing piece of fabric even if i cant weear them its still socks

[@user-rt2zq4jv8x]

I am a men. 34 year old. Saint-Petersburg, Russia. Desided to make my own clothes. I bought some cheap fabric for mockups, rulers, two good scissors, a book about sewing. I went to 3 hours course - how to draft and sew a pare of trousers. I bought Burda patterns for shir, waistcoat, jacket, trench coat. So. In 2023 I want to make my first clothe.

[@KristinA-xv4yk]

Ideas for beginner projects: Reusable bag (a simple design one, literally just 2 rectangles joined with French seams, and straps) Reusable bag with a lining (good for getting a grasp of general construction) Makeup bag w zipper (zippers can be annoying to figure out at first, and a makeup bag will teach a “zipper sandwich”) Extra small quilt (sewing squares together, then stitching in the ditch…really just a practice for sewing in a straight line, you don’t have to fully finish the quilt). Alternatively, you can practice sewing straight lines on just a square of fabric that you draw a grid on with regular pencil, then follow the grid on the machine. Clothing-related ideas: scarf, apron, scrunchie/headband, cloth belt, adding some sort of embellishment to your existing clothes (diff buttons, trim, beads…gets you some hand sewing practice) And ofc the ol’ standby projects of throw pillows and cloth napkins are options. I’m a fan of starter projects for things that you’d actually use, so if you’re not a pillow/napkin person, those beginner projects may not interest you. You def want a project to spark interest, and be something you can enjoy!

[@RachelASmith697]

You can quilt a placemat if you want to practice making an extra small quilt.

[@jennyhogenbom6679]

These are some fantastic ideas - just got my first machine secondhand and have been trying to find easy project ideas but also I don't want to make something I know I won't use much. I'll definitely be using some of these!!

[@larnie5772]

Hi! I tried to make a pencil case as a first project, and wasn't too bad... until it came to the zip (which I had in my box) - they are not for beginners! I searched for videos, and it took a few watches to see what to do, but for my first go I am quite pleased with the outcome! I will be practicing more of them, when get some more zips! As they say - onwards and upwards!! 🙂

[@CABedard1]

​@@jennyhogenbom6679 just saw your post and I'm wondering how you're progressing. 😊

[@CABedard1]

Excellent ideas, thank you.

[@Monsterfiend23]

I highly recommend thrifting bed sheets for fabric!! They’re usually pretty soft (so they feel good on your skin) and most are made of cotton! So they’re super easy to sew with and because it’s thrifted, I’m not worried about messing anything up :))

[@purplebec9112]

You can even find sewing patterns there too, my local Goodwill had a bagful of patterns in their craft aisle. They even have sewing machines.

[@SherylFZsmom]

Just in case anyone is interested about her online classes. They are very well done, and comprehensive from very very beginner ("I don't know what a pattern is.") to very indepth. (couture finished, pattern adjustments/fitting). I felt pretty competent as a sewist (been sewing for years) before I started taking her classes, and wow, did I learn so so much right off the bat (and I signed up for it almost from the beginning of her an online class.) She is just like she is here, very knowledgeable, and also approachable. No one asked me to say this. If you're not able to take it right away, watch all her youtube videos, but it is well worth the cost if you do decide to join. Also, remember; there is a free starter lesson to try. The sewists in the community are very encouraging, and helpful, very positive interactions all around

[@myeramimclerie7869]

Tip from a little advanced beginner to beginner beginners: Make a plan! Measure! Don't trust your eyes and guts for those, you don't have sewing eyes and guts yet! 😄

[@Jen-CelticWarrior]

And don’t skip the ironing/pressing! I used to blow this off, but no more.😊

[@penelope5500]

And don't be afraid to go slow. You'll make fewer mistakes that way. And it also gives your mind a chance to mull over the best way to proceed on the next step.

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Thanks for sharing!

[@marymack1]

It really is amazing how we think that we can do something perfectly out of the gate. The key is persistence, consistency, and enjoying the process. Applies to anything, really.

[@mothersuperior6751]

I agree. As a sewing teacher. The students that struggle the most are the ones least flexible, focussed only on perfection.

[@dale3404]

Doesn’t everything have to be practiced? Professional athletes, performers, etc. don’t become that overnight. We need to remind ourselves of that, and be kind to ourselves.

[@sewwithmsjones1196]

I taught middle schoolers to sew for 25 years. I tried to equate learning to sew well with learning to play a sport well. No one can sink a free throw, kick a goal, or throw a perfect spiral pass every time, especially the first time. It takes practice. You have to reflect on what you did well & what needs improvement and practice some more.

[@thefaerieapothecary]

Absolutely! Even still I took up pottery and thought I’d be great 😅 I’m having to follow those three Ps and remember that choosing to fail and never stop failing is the only way to success. If you give up on failing, you fail to succeed 🤍💫🦋

[@loririlling1796]

New sewer at 54. I made blankets and house wear things. Now I want to make an easy dress

[@Natasha___.]

I’ve been wanting to do this for maybe the last 15 years and never took the plunge, but today’s the day. I’m going to have a look at the choosing a sewing machine video and find one in my budget and then go for it. Besides mending clothes that my sons are always ripping and tearing, I want to be able to make my own clothes. I want to also take my old clothes and make them into something different to save waste. I also want to be able to make my own soft furnishings, to make cushions, curtains and duvet covers that are unique. Heck you could even make a business out of selling them, a bit of extra cash on the side doesn’t sound too bad.

[@grimsqueaker5333]

Time spent at the actual sewing machine is only a small part of sewing. Unpicking, cutting, hand basting and pressing and preparing fabric and the machine takes a lot of time, but it makes a huge difference in the quality of your projects.

[@kendspan212]

Being 6 feet tall I’ve always had a hard time finding clothes that actually fit me well. It’s been a dream to sew my own clothes, I think I’m going to invest in myself and take the plunge.

[@donkeybreathfoulface]

Nice, I’m a 44 year old guy who just stumbled upon Evelyn’s videos and I’m super impressed with her. Im about 2 weeks in to sewing with my dead mother’s singer machine. She passed 8 Years ago. The first thing I tried were small pouches for my kids and my next project is a long skirt for my daughter. Then an apron for my wife. I’m starting simple just like she advises. Eventually I hope to make my own hiking/hunting wool clothing and I’ll still be making things for my family, of course. Thank you Evelyn!

[@sophievdv]

Hi all, I sew my cloths (and kids') for a few years now, 1 thing I learned over the years (of NOT doing...) is to draw your seamallowance on the paper-pattern !! it IS so easy to do, AND you know where to cut, so you don't be mistaken and cut to far. My trick, I draw my pattern in pencil, and the cutting line is in red, 2 different colors to help me ;-) good luck and happy sewing 😛

[@Chandrapiano]

This channel is EXACTLY what I’m looking for

[@figtree6356]

Hello, friends! I crochet and enjoy hand mending things. My momma was a seamstress and I touched a machine for a single project when I was 12. 20 years later, I am DELIGHTED to be learning this skill set. Today, I learned a bit about my new machine and made a little lavender and rice eye pillow. Thank you for this video, and for the beginner video you mentioned; I’m headed straight to it after I submit my comment. ✨🌸💜

[@catalhuyuk7]

As a 65th birthday present to myself I’m going to sign up for your sewing class. Never too old to learn. Edit: I want to learn to use the present items I have to make duplicates. I have a few outfits that I adore but can no longer be repaired.

[@dale3404]

There are videos on using what you have as patterns for new items. If the clothes fit, why buy a pattern and have to adjust it, right!

[@cynthiastraub4129]

You will love VSS!

[@daxxydog5777]

Your own clothes are the best patterns! They already fit and you know you love the style. It just takes a bit of learning, as with everything!

[@roamingmompreneur792]

What a lovely comment!

[@hotjanuary]

@@daxxydog5777 While I think it’s great to encourage people to clone their clothes (as it’s the closest in fit than a random pattern and they have a good starting point to get into sewing), I wouldn’t be so quick in telling people that their own clothes fit unless you can actually see what they look like wearing them. When I was a complete beginner, I thought some of my RTW clothes (that I spent more money on) fit too. And then I read a bunch of books on how to fit patterns, learning to read wrinkles (etc…), and it was a complete shock to me to realize that NONE of my clothes actually fit. I learned, by fitting standards, that my best clothes actually fit pretty badly in several places. After feeling how comfortable a fitting garment was supposed to feel, I couldn’t suffer through the discomfort (which I thought was normal) of my best clothes and I had to get rid of them since tailoring them was impossible. The public’s perception of what a good fit is is very skewed because we’re not used to seeing people walk around in tailored clothes. In fact, there is this male self taught sewist (I won’t say the channel’s name because he’s a small KZbinr) who is teaching his male subscribers bad fitting techniques for dress shirts that make the fit WAY worse. That’s how bad the perception is. We need some type of education to learn to assess fit.

[@andreamaund4570]

Giving yourself grace is sooooo important! I returned to garment sewing after (mumble) years and the only experience I had was Home-Ec in middle school. I thought I could jump right back in and remember everything! The first thing I sewed was an A-line skirt and it is unwearable. Awful. Horrible. I don't know what I was thinking. But. I gave myself some grace, learned from my mistakes, and kept practicing. Now my next big project is an 1860s ball gown and I am going into this with confidence! I know I will be making mistakes (hopefully not too big) and learning new techniques.

[@mirahs_world]

Ah congrats on restarting your journey. I always wanted to sew since home ec, then wanted to learn before I had kids. Two kids later, I still want to learn and giving myself a year to be able to sew basic things. I know it won't be easy but I'm really hoping to become as good as y'all.

[@nikkijohnson552]

Evelyn, thinking if you very often and hope you have more good days than expected during your treatment. Prayers going your way. You are so talented and encouraging.

[@karenclose4581]

I learned basic sewing in 4-H back in the late 1970s. My instructor had us follow Iines and curves on paper with an unthreaded machine. I always wanted to sew my own garments, but I never had enough patience for success. Over the years I continued to sew pillows, curtains, quilts, and stuffed animals, but stayed away from garments. I decided a few months back to try and make myself a kimono, but I was to nervous to try. Two weeks ago, I found your channel. You inspired me to try, and I have to say thank you for the inspiration. I finished my kimono and for the first time I feel I can wear a garment I constructed in public.

[@user-pb8rl4gx5c]

I haven't sewn in almost a year as i found a new 'hobby' ( acrylic paint pouring) But i've been feeling a nudge to start sewing again & here, you popped up on my youtube feed. You are truly a Gem of a human, truly inspiring.....

[@faithingrits]

Sewing was always my Mother's thing when I was growing up. Never interested as a teenager, as it just looked complicated and fiddly. All Things Paper has always been a draw for me. Papercrafting during lockdown... Recently discovered junk journaling .... [no words to describe] I bought my first sewing machine for journalling in Autumn 2022! What a roller coaster learning curve!!! But loving it! Lots of "OMG what is wrong with this machine" moments; only to research online that it was my error and not the machine... Which led me into a more gentle approach and Naming my machine Darling, and treat her more tenderly. I'm currently crafting journals using a combination of fabric, paper and recycling; and experimenting with clips, pegs and glue to line shit up properly. Doing this now for a few months is giving me confidence with the sewing machine. I am starting to think of upcycling ideas for clothing for myself. I wear a lot of tunics with leggings. Wishing that I had more free time to hit the charity shops to look for pieces that I could upgrade into tunics. Anyhow, thank you for your videos. Love your voice and often play in the background when at my crafting space - Inspirational!

[@kathrynpickering1497]

Hello Evelyn! I often think of you and will keep you in my prayers. As for my sewing journey-- I have always been around sewists. My dad had a hard time finding shirts to fit his short arms and thick neck. So one day, before us 4 kids came into being, he went out and purchased a sewing machine,pattern and fabric and began sewing his own casual shirts for work. He sewed Easter dresses and spring coats and capes for my mom and me. He made my First Communion dress,70's Leisure suits in polyester for my brothers and outfits for my in High School. His mother was a very gifted sexist who would copy dresses from department store windows. My other grandmother was a quilter back when quilts were from scraps and of necessity. She did teach me a little on her treadle machine. My dad,however,sewed for me but for some reason never attempted to teach me. I requested a sewing machine as a First wedding anniversary gift. I made my children's Halloween costumes,and a few outfits and dresses for my daughter when she was young. Being self-taught with no KZbin back then,it was a struggle. In the past few years, I have taken some classes in sewing children's garments,making lined jumpers,a reversible dress,a smocked bishop,a smocked yoke dress,a knit baby layette and an heirloom dress. I had attempted a few garments for myself in the past with less than satisfactory results. Now,I am ready to dive in and try to sew some garments for myself! Thanks to you and a few others I feel I can accomplish this.🤞🎉

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

You, Evelyn Wood, always look perfect in your videos. It's not magic. It's because you have learned which styles, colors, and fabrics look best on you. It has taken me years to accept the fact that I do not have the ideal shape. I have made many garments that did not fit me as I expected them to. However, I have always been delighted at how well those same garments fit someone else. It has taken me years to accept the fact that I am built like my Mother. Mother knew she looked best in dresses that had no waist line; and, she looked wonderful in waist-less jumpers with blouses under them. She always wore her dresses and jumpers long (six inches below her knees). I am now remembering the dresses, jumpers, and blouses that Mother made for me. She always picked different shades of blue or greens for me. All the blouses she made for me were white.

[@macuisinesanssulfites4101]

Don’t laugh, but my first discovery watching your videos was the existence of the seam ripper! That made a huge difference: being able to undo seams relatively easily and without messing up the fabric, and realizing that sewing comes with a lot of unpicking. Thank you for teaching me so much. Making an apron was one of my first projects: the kind that you won’t worry about if it doesn’t come out perfect (and in any case you have also emphasized the fact that there is no such thing as perfection) but that will give you pleasure and pride every time you put it on. Thank you again Evelyn!

[@IssaSia]

I'm a beginner and Im currently working on my 3rd dress project! Thanks to you Evelyn, I shall never forget you bcoz you were the very 1st sewing vlogger I stumbled a month ago when I first bought my 1st sewing machine ever! Now I got myself a Singer serger, and Im happy with it! I started sewing on rectangle shirred dress with straps and pockets and it was successful! I took your advice to use cotton fabric which I agree simple easy to cut and sew. I even chose a checker with clear lines so that I can easily follow sewing the shirs! You are right, my reaper tool became my best friend!! LOL and yes making mistakes are a part of learning! Then you always mention in your vlogs to press your seams, I followed that too! I bought a new steam flat iron and it does helps a lot!! LOL I still make shirred dress, this time with diff sleeves, puff sleeves in particular! It's the 1st pattern I made and still struggling with it! LOL But I never give up, I just take a break an hour or 2 and listen to vloggers! Now little by little I'm trying to learn how to draft patterns, bcoz my next goal is to draft and sew! I'm quite passionate in sewing and I really enjoy every step of its learning process! Thank you again Evelyn!

[@daliavg1]

I was looking for a hobby and sewing seemed like fun. Also,I won’t have to pay for alterations anymore. I’m glad I found your channel. 😊

[@melissapelletier1335]

Thank you for recommending a non-garment sewing project to start. I started sewing in Aug last year and I started sewing my son a first stocking for Christmas. Unfortunately I didn’t finish it in time but it’s nice that you said we should just take our time learning the craft. So Ive been doing a mock-up of that the stocking and then once I’ve practiced I want to do the real thing in a better fabric. My dream sewing project would be sewing my own trousers and some silk blouses. I work in a very warm environment and it’s gets really humid in the summer where I live, so I love the idea of making myself some lightweight classic garments. Also I took your advice and found some old bedsheets and patterns at the thrift store. Thank you!

[@auntiecondog]

Thank you for offering a sewing school for all skill levels! Way, way back in the 8th grade, I completely blew it when it came to putting in zippers and I've never recovered. Then there are the confusing patterns. I'm ready to take the plunge! .

[@Evelyn__Wood]

Yay!!! I have so many students re- learning and they mostly find the experience this time alot more satisfying, fun and easy! 😀

[@roamingmompreneur792]

I took a sewing course as a young adult and learned how to make my own patterns. I can’t understand the store bought patterns; I haven’t even attempted one; it’s less hassle to make your own if you learn it.

[@dkp28]

Me too! I still have pictures of myself wearing the clothes I made in junior high school... but I've never recovered from the trauma of zippers, either. I have zippers, I have the zipper foot. I haven't put the two together! 🙂 So, I resorted to quilting. Love your videos, Evelyn!

[@lightwavz]

​@@dkp28 I could just say "DITTO" I used to staple myself into clothing because I messed up the zippers as well. Oh, those were the days!

[@maryholmes5231]

I haven't sewn in 40 years. I used to make all my children's clothes until I went to work full time. I made a set of napkins for a Christmas gift this year that turned out sort of good???? (The family really liked them even if my sewing wasn't stellar! Lol!) I think it's a really good idea to just familiarize myself with the different stitches and functions my machine is able to do. It's been so long. I bought my machine in 1972 to make my wedding dress which, by the way, turned out beautifully! Time to reintroduce myself to my wonderful machine.

[@helenparker1870]

My best advice is to draw your seam lines on to your pattern pieces. Decades ago when I first started sewing, patterns came in individual sizes, not as helpful as modern multi size patterns you might think. However they did have one advantage, the seam lines were all marked on the pattern. Older patterns came without seam allowances and you had to add your own. I remember marking all these seam lines with carbon tracing paper. This is hard to do with modern multi size patterns as they only print the cutting line. If you are not completely accurate when you cut out your pattern, everything can be a little off when you sew it together, and seam allowances can fray. Marking on the stitching lines takes away the guess work.

[@ElizabethSampson]

I have been sewing since I was a little girl but my machine broke several years ago and I recently got a new machine in 2020. In 2016 I inherited a serger and now with the new machine I am creating a sewing room in my home. I am learning how to use the serger via youtube and started making clothes again, especially for my grandbabies.

[@savannahpatterson9588]

I’m so excited I found you. I’m about to start my sewing journey. When I was little I was gifted a sewing machine but never had the courage to learn to use it. I’m convinced it was the factory scene of the American Girl Samantha movie that scared me. It’s always been a regret. I’ve been frustrated with cheap badly fitting clothing ordered online and my husband suggested that I just make things myself!

[@amishgirl1000]

I began sewing by buying shop bought dresses that I liked and changing each dress, to make them my own style.

[@energyhealer39]

I have the feeling you're going to be a good teacher for me because every step you mentioned is the same order, I figured that I need to take. Right now, I just learned how to use the machine that I recently purchased. I already have the tools that I need to get started sewing. Next, I'm going to start practicing making bags with woven fabric. 2023 is the year that I'm going to get serious about learning how to sew. I gave up on it in the past because I returned a previous sewing machine. I decided to buy another sewing machine only if the store still offered classes on how to use the machine. They did, and I'm glad because it was really worth it to spend a little more on the machine for the classes. What was once a big headache is now a total joy because now I know how to use the sewing machine.

[@PerfectNicolelyn]

I'm 51 and started sewing yesterday. We learned to thread the machine, whind the bobbin and placed it in the slot. We did straight stitches, circular stitches and a few more. I have an old singer machine, like over 25 years old ( brought it to learn to sew but never used it and never learned how) . So I finally found a class near my home, they serviced my machine ( it was highly recommended) then I signed up and started. I'm so excited. I will take a few more classes ( I love the in- person learning) then I will switch over to KZbin University. I will come back and let you know of my progress.

[@andreaperezrodriguez4474]

I found your videos in December2022 and I’ve already made some small projects to get the feel of it and get started. Im so grateful for your kind words and encouragement Evelyn, thank you so much!! I feel like I can really learn to sew my own clothes. ❤ I wish you the best for this 2023. ☺️

[@Blablabla44475]

Thank you so much for this introduction to sewing! I’ve listened to a few other channels and this is the one that feels most comfortable for me. I will be learning much from you! I started out knitting last year, then about 6 months into that, I got into crocheting as well, and now another 6 months later I’m ready to start sewing! I have so many ideas, I should’ve been a fashion designer! It’s such a valuable skill, and I’m so excited to learn!

[@barbarawood403]

I recently started getting back into sewing. I haven't made any clothing but have successfully stitched up a couple sets of kitchen curtains using a Walmart brand dbl top sheet for $5 & some change. Use white if you're looking for that Farmhouse look. If you can sew a straight line, you can make window coverings! Easy peasy!

[@TheLyssie89]

I've never been interested in sewing until recently so I am at the veeeery beginning of my sewing journey! My goal is to make my own clothes and also to start selling my makes!

[@websherpa]

I would say START, equipment-wise, with a really nice sharp pair of fabric shears… honestly, buying one, although a stretch in budget (for what you think scissors should be worth) made a HUGE amount of difference in the satisfaction, accuracy and ease of cutting out fabric with a pattern. It’s a world of difference that gives you an immediate sense of purpose and professionalism that pushes you in the direction of enjoying sewing. You will treat them like gold, likely scream at anyone who attempts to use them, and you will NEVER be tempted to use them for cutting paper or anything else beyond fabric.

[@modmamaodon2945]

Love the advice given in this video. Start small, work your way up, and expect to fail forward!! I'm hoping to make more garments for myself, building up to making a prom dress for my teenager in 2 years.

[@ApacheBee]

I love watching your videos and reading through the comments! I’m so grateful to have stumbled across your channel to this community. Thank you to you and all your viewers for your tips, tricks, and recommendations! I recently sewed a vogue pattern for a shirt and I used your channel for when I came across something I needed help with and my shirt came out beautiful. ❤❤❤ I’m planning a skirt for my next garment 😊😊😊

[@Victoria-lx3dn]

I love fashion and I've been wanting to sew my own clothes for a while (I have so many designs in my brain that I just want to wear ahaha) and I finally decided to get a sewing machine! I'm especially excited to make lace tops and dresses :))

[@katrielgitonga3582]

I dream of making my own comfortable basics. I'm going to start with very simple projects though. Maybe in a few months, I'll buy a sewing machine, but for now, I'm going to try and use the free one provided in the university's maker's space.

[@richardlionheart3965]

I would add don't dismiss starting with simple home furnishings - cushion and pillow covers, table cloths etc. Nice, easy long runs of stitching to practice on. I started on this a few years ago after making covid masks and now i can do a jacket and trousers, shirts. Just keep practicing and laugh off any mistakes!

[@cindydusart2347]

I am just learning to sew again, Didn't realize things have changed so much. First things is or shall I say was what is a stay stich, (is that something require with everything we sew?) I looked it up and I am hoping to learn more by joining your school to refresh my mind. Thank you for taking your precious time to help people like me and teach a wonderful class.

[@jencyclingadventures3242]

First time here, thank you for the encouraging welcome. I use to sew a lot many years ago, i think i have forgotten most of it by now. I would love to reinstate these skills I am looking forward to many more videos

[@juliacampbell3674]

Evelyn, I am so excited to have found you on KZbin. I have been watching about a year! I have been sewing off and on for about 64 years. My mom showed me the first dress I made with her help, I believe I was about 15 years old. After watching you, I somewhat feel like a new sewist. I have alot of things that you are teaching and helping me. I could go on alot but I will stop for now.

[@JustLori14]

I am looking for a new hobby and sewing is something that I really want to try, this video is so encouraging and I can’t wait to start.

[@mariaseobrown2095]

I taught myself to sew with a simple machine when newly married and made a few pencil cases and a kid backpack for my nephew (I made so many mistakes and had to do parts over and over again but it was so rewarding) which returned backto me and love that my own children play with it. Then we moved and I had to sell my sewing machine. It's been 8 years and I finally was able to get myself a new sewing machine which came in today! I'm excited to relearn how to sew and hoping to be able to sew clothes for my children who grow so fast, pinafore aprons and mid to long length skirts that are practical for a homesteading mama. In this fast fashion world, I want to go back to traditional skills and be able to choose which fabrics and styles to dress my family! Excited to lean and teach my children alongside me who are as eager to learn as well.

[@juliewarnes6750]

Although I learned to sew 26 years ago, I had a stroke 12 years ago and have had to learn to adjust my skills to working one handed! I therefore make sure I stick to easy level sewing patterns now, but have managed to make a few things successfully. Love to watch your videos for inspiration. Thank you.

[@joanneferguson9297]

I haven’t been sewing for 20 years, but started recently and love, love your videos.

[@elizabethflagler-ec9fo]

I made the biggest mistake making a vintage dress because I LOVE the clothes women wore in the 17th and 18th century. I spent a fortune on gorgeous fine wool material thinkjng all one need do is follow a pattern. Lesson learned. I now am using your youtube videos to learn the skills needed for such a task. I started back at the beginning, learning how to square material, learning how to take proper body measurements, learning that patterns are made for average, not my body. Learning how to pattern adjust. So I am still making mistakes but you have taken a lot of the mystery out of sewing and taught me so much. Many thanks. Elizabeth

[@user-zo9pi3gj1x]

I first started thinking about learning how to sew a decade ago but life got in the way. Now I'm ready. I will never be a fashion designer but I am interested in learning to make toys for my dog, pillows, dinner napkins, tote bags, pencil skirts, sheath dresses, and shift dresses. If these garments fit ok, I'd love to learn how to make full skirts and dresses. I look forward to watching your videos and the videos from other sewing instructors, also. Taking into account the learning curve, I'm curious to see if I'll be any good at it. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

[@solodoloyolomomimiller8594]

I'm so grateful to know someone like you exist I've only ever hand stitched so this is like really a journey for me anad I'M READY Miss BOss W00ds take me to the moon!!! I've already written down the 3 P's those are key for anything . I'm hoping and praying for another baby and I want to make everything even down to my baby shower. I've already signed up for your online school. It's time to learn to sew the right way!!!!!

[@CABedard1]

Thank you, Evelyn! I first sewed in 8th grade (USA). Did not pursue it. At 25 when my son was born I made simple shirts and a bag for toys. Now, he's 40 years old and I'm back to sew. I recently made 5 tea cozies. Lol I improved with each one.😊 I want to make blouses and comfortable slacks.

[@lauraarbuckle3181]

I’m a total beginner and I’m not very handy. The women in my family all see like pros. I must have been adopted. And, machines break when I get near them. You seem like a good teacher. Of course I want to learn everything, design, drape, pattern my own fashions but I’d be just as happy if I can make a pillowcase or a shawl.

[@stephaniefeddock776]

Great video Evelyn as always. This was a complete refresher to remind me to reset for the 2023! I was happily watching this as I was hand hemming a pair of pants and none of this would be possible without you and VSS.

[@kirstehamon9170]

Through necessity my sewing journey started a couple years ago with Lycra costumes for my daughter's dance club. Stretch fabric is no longer my enemy but it definitely wasn't a great place to start. Many many mistakes!!! I'm now slowly teaching myself non stretch fabrics with small projects like facemasks and pin cushions. Thankyou for your videos they are so very informative and upbeat. Love watching and listening to your advice.

[@robinmansions]

I am definitely interested in joining the subscription, but I am just starting and I want to know a little more about what I’m getting myself into so here I am, binge watching these videos to see what I can glean, what I can afford, what supplies I’ll need, etc. I really want to change my career path, because I got sick. Money is tight. I’m trying to make the best of things.

[@brinbrawner6101]

I've been wanting to make my own clothes for a looooong time but I've never jumped in out of fear. I finally took the dive and as much as I really really want to sew every dress pattern EVER right this very second, I understand that I need some basic skills first. I had a bunch of fat quarter bundles and so I've started actually watching quilting videos and starting out "quilting". (I'm not actually using quilting patterns, mostly just sewing squares together and making mistakes haha) I'm practicing straight stitching, making back stitching a habit, getting comfortable with fractional measurements, learning to sew in a straight line, getting comfortable with quarter inch seam allowances, learning about different kinds of thread, finishing seams, learning about pressing seams and how they affect the lay of fabric and so much more. It's been about two weeks and I'm incredibly glad that I started in this way. It's allowed me to feel less precious about my projects and fabric I'm using while still being satisfying and a learning experience. I'm making a bag now using those sewn together squares and I'm having a lot of fun

[@BrookeBishop-hi3he]

I literally don't even have a sewing machine yet so I haven't started my sewing journey. My desire is to sew beautiful, modest dresses for myself as I'm very tall and very slim and I can't find a good selection of beautiful, long dresses that don't reveal my chest or tight around my bottom. I'd also like to make blankets, purses and use the rabbit pelts I process to make a warm coat for the winter!

[@julianasnow8997]

I took a break from sewing, and now getting back into it. I have a background in sewing quilts, but sewing garments is new to me. I’m enjoying your videos.

[@janobrien1936]

Brand newbie! I’m a year behind! I have a pattern burda 7972. I’m using a linen like polyester in bright spring green. It has a bit of facing and a zip. The pattern said “super easy” but I have my doubts! lol. I have sewn only a few things since middle school many years ago but the terminology is coming back to me. I’ll post how it goes. I made a cover for a pinball machine out of three bed sheets as a starter project this year. I learned a few things about construction! Turned out okay if one doesn’t look too closely. I will redesign it one day if I make it with nicer fabric. Just meant to be a dust/sun protection. My goal would be to sew a new outfit a season with a coat being a future elusive target. I also have a pattern for a vest for my husband to attempt this year by Christmas. Interfacing, lining and many buttons. Yikes! Your videos have been very helpful so far.

[@elizabethw.8561]

Been a sewing and quilting teacher at the community college here in town for 20 years!! Started at the stockroom in the hancock fabric store way back when!! Love you and your passion!!!!

[@lucass1717]

My first time here, I've been crocheting some stuff for a couple months now and I'm planning on starting to sew now as well. I'm still waiting for summer vacation to buy a sewing machine since atm I have to focus on school and I just know I wouldn't be able to put the sewing down if I started now. So I'm just trying to prepare myself for the future! Thank you for this video, it was very helpful and I already learned something.

[@zena-knittingbeans7973]

Brand new but don't know where to start so this has come up just at the right time. Wish me luck 😃

[@megbirkett5916]

Hi Evelyn, I have been sewing for the last couple of years, just simple bags and craft items. I am at the point where I really want to be able to make clothes for myself and others. I have been feeling intimidated by clothes making because it requires fit. I cannot subscribe to your sewing classes at the moment. I'm thankful for and look forward to learning from your helpful videos though. Thanks for the encouragement to begin!😊

[@angelaburcher7570]

I bought a 1940s swimsuit pattern, Simplicity 8932, as my first go at sewing my own clothing. After a year I had tried twice, getting stuck both times where the straps attach to cups, I just stared at the instructions forever trying to wrap my mind around that step, another year later, and I give it a go, and finally figure it out, only to have misplaced the rest of the instructions, Uggh, just found those lost instructions last week, after tossing my last attempt the week before in frustration and belief it would never be found. So I'm thinking about trying it again, but I need to check the fabric on the pattern before I start again. Would be nice to see it done by a professional like yourself 😊

[@poocky100]

I started sewing in 2017. I bought a little machine (brother) and made two quilts after watching KZbin. Then I got a better brother machine the pq1500sl and made more quilts. Now I wanna do clothing

[@TheKickshaws]

I’ve sewn on and off since I was a teenager, which is when my mom gave me a sewing machine for my birthday (20 years ago now!). I’ve done simple clothing items and alterations. But I want to start a business recycling old wedding dresses and making them modern and trendier. (I’m talking mostly dresses that are 10-20 years old that many consider “outdated” - VINTAGE dresses I want to restore and repair and keep their original vintage beauty.😊) I want to give old dresses a “second chance at love” and keep them out of landfills or taking up room in closets and overflowing thrift stores, giving brides some more sustainable and affordable options. I’m so happy I found your channel and can’t wait to improve my skills! 🩷

[@catslove3884]

I drafted a 6 gored skirt with a swirl, first time for making a garment. Amazing! I was thrilled when I sewed pillow cases with french seams!

[@Escape10mom]

Yes, you don't need a lot of stuff to start!! I've been on a journey for the last 2 yrs and am learning what looks good on me. I've been sewing over 30 yrs. My wardrobe is over 90 % me made. I still have some RTW that I won't give up though.

[@scbeachblonde8836]

My mother was a great seamstress, and I admired what she could do (Sunday dresses, play clothes, stuffed dolls and bunnies for us kids, and her own skirts and fancy dresses, too). Neither one of us had the patience for her to teach me. As an adult, I have a machine, but I am inept. It's like a Devil Machine to me. I even had it serviced and cleaned at a sewing center, and they gave it the OK. So the problem is me. I want and need simple step by step lessons. My goals are to alter/sew elastic into garments, make various bags, and hemming skirts and pants. Maybe a stuffed doll. 😊

[@paulinebrown4274]

I’m brand new my name is Pip. It’s been a long time dream to see my own clothes. School sewing was too advanced and frustrating. Now is the time and I feel I’ve found the right place to start. Thanks for having me 😊

[@carlarobinson3362]

Looking forward to re-starting my sewing journey! I got a sewing machine for Christmas, and haven't touched one since I lived at home and used my mom's 1970-something Singer with the knee lever. Evelyn, I have found your videos so helpful.

[@teresaquarles9158]

I’ve sewed quilts but not much of anything else. I would love to do more ❤

[@vickismallwood2082]

I have done some sewing but not as much as I want. I have been following for awhile and have gathered all I feel I need to start with and am ready for the next step in this journey. Thank you Evelyn for giving me the courage to start this next step.

[@MsNisey51]

Hello from Texas ! I used to sew as a teen and a younger woman ( I am 72 now) and I decided to dust my machine off and start sewing again. I quit sewing because I gained weight and no longer fit the patterns, and I didn't know about drafting then. I have been watching alot of videos on you tube about proper measurements and drafting. I'm going to join your sewing school! Looking forward to it!! I really enjoy your you tube videos!

[@rachelrage_]

Whoa. If I might say, you're a real life Princess.♡

[@bpaulsen6701]

I used a Necchi machine my mother won in the early '60s for decades. When I got a new machine, I pressed on the foot & it went so fast I couldn't keep up! It felt like it took FOREVER just to learn to control the new machine. I've been away for awhile, due to injuries, & I'm kind of dreading starting, again. Thanks so much for the encouragement & reminder that I don't need to start at the level I was when I stopped.

[@daphneblake7889]

I'm 53 and seperated, working as a family care giver for my 83yo mother who used to run an alterations business from the front room of her home before her medical issues took her mind over. I was never able to learn from her. I studied electronics and robotics, and fixed cars with my father before his stroke.. So I'm a bit of a Mrs fix it, a grease monkey. My sisters studied nursing and work full time as nurses. sewing is a strong part of their home life but not mine. I was never so fortunate to learn. However I got a very nice Domestic model 808 on an auction for a few dollars last year. (it was stuck in reverse) I was able to repair the machine myself. And today I ordered a kit of accessories for it I may need. I already have some other things like scissors,nippers,chalk, etc I got from my mother before my sisters took it. And I have a retired fitted bed sheet I intend to cut up for practice material. (Cotton) It seams I still need a light bulb for the machine this one is burned out. I don't know what I want to learn this for myself, perhaps I'm just jealous of my sisters. My daughter is so "above" wearing anything home made. However she is into cosplay and said she may want to make costumes. I would love to be a help to her for that. My sisters won't want to help with that. I know she won't be fixing cars. Lol

[@reetslee7431]

I used to sew a lot of my own clothes, I even made my wedding dress and the dress of one of my bridesmaids. I have since realised that while I may have had reasonable sewing skills, I was very lucky in that my body shape was quite 'standard' in that I didn't have to make many adjustments to standard paper patterns to make them fit well. The most I ever had to do was shorten the leg length or maybe add a dart to make a neckline sit better. Since then I have had a couple of children and put on some weight and my body shape has changed a lot. My proportions are no longer 'standard' which makes it trickier to find and make clothes that fit and look good. Often a garment that fits my larger areas is way too big on the rest of my body and I haven't had a lot of success in making alterations either to ready-made clothes or to sewing patterns. There's more to making a pattern fit than just 'bigger here and smaller there' and I haven't found that skill yet. The only things I have made recently that I wear are a couple of poncho style tops that I like...and I've got pretty good at putting pockets in some stretchy top jeans that I've found that fit me (why no pockets in clothes???) 😀

[@lawrenberghanson4401]

Thanks for this video! A note about tools: for those like me with rheumatoid arthritis or some other physical or mental limitation, be mindful of the tools you get and ensure they are ergonomic for your needs. Sometimes we watch the "best tools for beginners" video and think to ourselves, "oh, that's all they use. They are not using the fancy tools," but guess what? A lot of the "fancy" tools are designed with accessibility in mind, so someone who is not experiencing the limitations mentioned earlier may not need it, but you might. So look for the tools that help you, not hinder you. There's nothing worse than using tools that hinder your progress and make you feel like you can't do sewing, painting, jewelry making, or whatever creative project you aspire to take up. I am adding this as a reflective reminder to others with limitations like myself. Thanks Evelyn for the video as always!

[@allsquaredup9717]

I’ve been making rag quilts and selling them for 13 years. Making clothes terrifies me but I’m going to do it! I bought a pattern for flannel pajamas pants and a simple (I hope) cotton dress.

[@positivelysimful1283]

I started sewing as a kid making clothes for my dolls. Awful clothes 😂 but I liked getting creative and was very proud of my Barbies in their exclusive haute couture made out of fabric scraps. After that I would sew occasionally, usually by hand or borrowing my mother's rarely used little sewing machine-- hemming, curtains, pillow cases, pouches, bags, eventually moving on to costumes; they looked fine for Halloween or festival or whatever but a lot of imperfections and very messy insides 🤭. On Mother's Day this year I was gifted a sewing machine 🤩🤩🤩. I had been sewing Renn Faire costumes and hand sewing took forever, and one of my children took pity on me. I've been playing with it and I'm ready to start making a new wardrobe. I need one, I dropped 100 lbs this past couple of yrs.🤸🤸‍♂🤸‍♀ I plan to work my way up; just made my first tiered skirt. It'll be fine for working in the garden 😁. But I loved tiered skirts, esp. in spring & summer, so I figure it's a good place to begin. I got some woven cotton fabrics from the discount bin so I'm going to make a few more till I get good at it before moving on to something else (probably blouses to go with the skirts👍). With practice & with your videos helping I've already improved from when I started the skirt to when I finished it. I'd love to join your sewing school, but I'm a freelancer & things have been slow. Hopefully they'll pick up after the holidays and I'll have the extra money.

[@janetwriter]

Do you know what? I watched this video because I recently bought a brother sewing machine so that I could make pillow covers and hem curtains. Starting to use the machine is so intimidating because it has so much to offer. I have my mother’s old sewing machine it’s a Kenmore from the 1950s and I learned a little about sewing using that machine that long ago (I am 73). Anyway, I have enjoyed this video and others that you put together so very much that I feel inspired to look deeper into things that I can do with it. I think that starting with pillow covers and hemming curtains maybe just the ticket to get started, as you suggested, we keep it simple. I don’t know if I need to enroll in a class at the local fabric store on how to use my machine or if I can just wing it using KZbin, which to me is an incredible resource. Anyway, thank you for your investment in all of our adventures! I will be watching you.

[@lazysusanmarie1220]

First “clothing” project my mother taught me to sew was an apron. Even though it was the seventies and no one really wore them anymore, I was so excited. Getting back into sewing after several years and want to tackle vintage patterns which require a bit of assumed sewing knowledge I don’t have. Your videos have been super helpful.

[@lightwavz]

I love aprons now. I don't care if they are ever stylish again, I am wearing them!

[@Orphea333]

I picked up sewing again, but this time I want to learn it properly instead of rushing things, I made my first hankerchief skirt yesterday and today I'm making a tube top. The only 'not so smart' thing I did is only buying 4way stretch fabric. Whoops! but my first seam compared to my 4th on the same square of fabric is already so much better, and the final piece is wearable, so thats what counts for me ^^ Looking forward to your video's!

[@theresazimmerman4010]

I just finished watching a number of your videos, love them. The one on "tips" made me think of an important tip that is seldom mentioned but crucial. Do not allow food in your sewing room. It probably seems intuitive but people and family members walk around all the time and set down coffee cups, snacks like M&M's and cookies, baby bottles etc. Be steadfast don't do it. If others visit you in that room, do not allow them to do it. Fabric is expensive as is servicing sewing machines if one thing spills, or melts, or is greasy it is a mess and sometimes unsalvageable. Great videos for brushing up sewing skills, thanks.

[@cvgsunset5844]

I started my sewing journey last spring, thinking I was going to make myself a dress for a concert (I was the person who said “oh, I found this pattern, looks easy enough, no problem!” 🫠🫠😆😆🥲🥲). I struggled so much just getting the machine to do what I wanted, I had to accept that my concert dress wasn’t happening… a few months later (around August-October), I started designing/figuring out how to sew what are essentially small picture frame keychains, and the design I wanted to do required quilting the fabric (so sewing lots of straight lines). Not only was it a great learning process to figure out how to make what I wanted (there doesn’t exist a tutorial that I know of), but I also became a lot more comfortable with my machine and getting it to do what I want it to from sewing straight lines over and over again. I’m still sticking to non-garment projects (currently working on a planner cover), but I definitely feel more confident for when I do “graduate” to simple garments. 😊 I definitely agree that starting with small, non-garment projects is the ticket. My keychains were small enough that if I just completely messed one up and couldn’t salvage the fabric to try again, I wasn’t wasting much fabric, maybe only a 6”x6” piece.

[@evelyncuevas692]

im brand new here and i just bought my sewing machine today (used ofc lol) after years of wanting to be able to sew my own clothes but i hope in the next 4 years i can gain enough knowledge and skill to make my sisters quinceanera dress in the future

[@airjoker78]

Weee! I've been thinking about it for years, as my Mom also sewed, but I was so busy with life , that I never did. I finally have the time and I'm ready to get ready. Your enthusiasm is infectious!

[@angeliasparrow3990]

Me!Me!Me! I'm taking classes now, and I'm we excited.

[@rachelanderson3147]

I started sewing in January!! I've made a simple purse, simple box bag, and an apron so far. Lots of practice but truly love seeing. I want to make a t shirt, shorts, and a simple dress someday!

[@shoshana6324]

Hi,Evelyn!! I had taken sewing in High School; barely got through it.......I did make a circle skirt and a blouse for my mother.....after becoming a mom, I tried to sew dresses for my daughters.....total fiasco!!! (I found knitting and crochet to be creative outlets for making toys, vests, leg warmers, cardigan and other small projects.) I am determined once again, 35 years (!) to try again!! LOL so far I have completed two travel tissue holders, pot holders, a 'Jelly Roll' lap quilt and am working with a difficult fabric (for a beginner!) to complete a baby blanket..... I am definitely challenged at sewing a straight line, but am determined to sew useful and beautiful things....I really want to make my own clothes............I love cotton and linen..........so far I am collecting cotton fabrics including flannel. Thank you for sharing your passion and skills!! You are very motivating!!! Sue

[@miaochs7716]

Excellent proposed series for newer sewer

[@ladyabernathy717]

I have come to love the idea of repairing and creating things by sewing. I have some basic knowledge but feel like I should start back at the beginning and make sure there aren’t any gaps in my skills.

[@nancymantyh2916]

I think I was thirteen when I tried to learn by jumping into a fairly complicated pattern on an old sewing machine. I'm 57 so no KZbin. I started my girls on pillow cases. So many fun fabrics and time and money won't be wasted.