How to Learn to Sew for Free (Exact Plan for Making your Own Clothes)

Join me as I talk about How to Learn to Sew for Free. I'll give you my Exact Plan for Making your Own Clothes.
It's been such a wild journey since i started sewing 3 years ago, and I can't wait to share with you how I taught myself to sew and all I've learnt along the way in order to get you off to the best start possible.
So jump in and follow along as I share my journey of sewing and more specifically, I will share easy steps for how you can learn to sew for free. There's some epic ideas to kickstart your clothes making career.
#sewforfree #learntosew #sewing
🌸 You can subscribe here: bit.ly/3e9EP9g
And you can follow me on Instagram here / alexandra__burnett
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Everything is filmed and edited by myself.
Hope you enjoy this Sewing Vlog❣️
🎼 All music is from : www.epidemicsound.com
About me: I'm Alexandra and I live in Oxfordshire together with my husband and our adorable daughter. I sew and make videos about it. I love creating and I want to share my progress of spending time with my craft, whether it's sewing or other activities. I want to give you as much encouragement for your creativity and my hope is that you'll find a lot of positivity on this channel. Lots of love, Alexandra

[@AlexandraBurnett]

The reason I say "How I teach myself to sew" rather than "taught myself to sew" is that I believe that you never, ever stop learning! Thank you for watching. XXX

[@summersun6536]

I love that your first project was a trenchcoat, which is a real challenge even for skilled sewers. I wanna make a trenchcoat, too, and jeans. Could you share the pattern of the trench and the jeans, please? They both look fabulous and are exactly my style. Thank you in advance, and keep sewing and sharing about that journey, please.

[@melaniezammit2589]

Hi Alexandra, keep up your great work!! I love watching you. Can you pls tell me from where you got this fabric or what it is called? Melanie xx

[@firsttimegrammy3101]

At age 77, I wholeheartedly agree that learning is a lifelong endeavor. 🎉

[@jesuslovesyou5310]

Wow never stop learning. That is it. Thank you.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Also, give this comment a thumbs up if you've been here since 2020!!! If you're one of them, MAN! I want to thank you so much!!!!!

[@franceszammit3339]

I have been watching you since 2021, which is the year I started sewing. I have watched every single one of your videos x10! Can you pls pls pls let me know from where you got the fabric for the Plumeria blouse that you are wearing, or what it is called? Keep up your awesome awesome work

[@cynthiajfannin7986]

I’m 63 and I paint life like baby dolls which I discovered two years ago. My sister just bought me a brand new sewing machine because I want to learn how to sew dresses for my beautiful dolls! Generally they are from newborn to toddler size. My sister is also sending me several vintage baby patterns and beautiful fabrics! I’m so blessed to have a loving supportive sister!❤

[@shapisaifield9266]

totally blessed to have such a lovely sister!!!!!

[@melissamiller502]

Omg I love how your first project was a trench coat then you moved on to jeans!! I started sewing about 6 years ago and those 2 items are still terrifying to me. I do love how you pointed out that maybe your makes aren’t perfect but they’re still amazing and beautiful and give you pride. Definitely a mindset I need to work on. Thanks for the inspiration lady!

[@marionlacey1986]

I can't believe the first garment you sewed is that divine trench coat. I would never have been brave enough for such a big project. My first garment was a straight corduroy skirt with darts and invisible zipper, after first practicing with an old sheet. It actually turned out well, after sweating and freaking out over the zip placement. I would not recommend using the same fabric for a first attempt though, as it was slippery to sew! Warm wishes from South Australia 🐾🥰

[@grettalemabouchou6779]

The idea of sewing with a candle is so delicious......I started with sheets from the thrift.

[@user-bq6kh6lq8b]

I drifted into sewing when I began buying, refurbishing, and reselling vintage machines: I had to test them to make sure they were working properly and was always scrounging for bits of fabric to test the machines.... One day someone gave me a load of fabric remnants; some of which my teenage daughter took a shine to and thought would make a great working coat.... Could I make one? turned into let's have a go.... A month later I had made a lovely burnt orange wool mix and leather coat, lined with orange and black checkered cotton... I was really pleased, it had took a while and much google searching, YT tutorials, head scratching and lots of unpicking... but I finally got there. My daughter loves it and teams it with her Stetson newsboy cap for that unique look. Since then I've been well and truly bitten by the sewing bug; mainly practical stuff like Jeans, cargo trousers and flannel shirts.... So if I (and I'm a guy) can learn anyone can, picking a harder project and diving in can sometimes be exactly what you need (like your trench coat; not exactly a beginner project)... practice on scraps, google and Tube, and buy a bit extra fabric for the mistakes you will make.... My daughter now sews too has her own machines (vintage) and has now made shirts and dungarees too.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Yes, Yes, Yes! I LOVE THIS SO MUCH! Well done!!!

[@suburbanwreck]

What is the trench coat patttern? My mind is blown that was your first project!

[@jennistevenson796]

OMG. I can’t believe your first project was a trench coat !! I am self taught too and my first clothes were children’s clothes. Smaller and much easier to handle and fit, plus they look so cute. I think you have a natural talent for sewing. You’re so right about embracing failure, it’s just learning and learning is something to be proud of. Xx

[@barbarah.k.1326]

Thank you for encouragement and motivation to sew again and stop worrying about making mistakes!

[@finbohannon9581]

Very inspirational but I would never have chosen a trench coat as a first pattern….you are v v brave….note to self….be braver!,,,, 😊

[@cherylbecker_ecreatestitches]

I have been sewing for years but you still gave me encouragement so thank you! ❤😊

[@dpcaw]

In the old video where your husband said "oh no" and tried to comfort you, i wonder what his real thought balloon was lol did he really know how big a deal it was haha. Here's to all the husbands who lifts us up because we need it:)

[@AlexandraBurnett]

He's invested in my sewing journey, and I remember he bought that fabric for me, so he knew it was really sad, sad enough to make his lovely wife cry haha, which I think was what he was mostly concerned with! Yes, to all the husbands who support their wives' adventures!

[@thesavingsorceress]

I love this! I’m mostly self-taught too, and I wish I had figured out some of these tips a lot earlier in my journey especially the one about not buying so much fabric 😅 Thank you for showing how difficult it can be to figure things out as well. I love the concept that you never stop learning ✨

[@Lifeinthe10.40Window]

I have been sewing for years, but it has been a while since I made my own clothing. I always feel like I don't have the time. I love your enthusiasm. It is very motivating. I am amazed at your first sewing projects. Those are usually for the more advanced seamstress. You have great talent. Thanks for sharing and inspiring me to keep going!

[@itssewtanschi]

As always - such a lovely and helpful video! Love the good vibes 💕

[@christaboudreaux6687]

Love this, ALL this !! We all make those big mistakes, in life , in sewing ! Thanks for the raw moments reminding us we all more similar than different ❤️ Happy (American ) Mother’s Day

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I love this comment so much! Yes, you're very right!!! X

[@user-xc5ce5ro2f]

love your channel you show everyone that mistakes make us learn more and that we can overcome them and still make lovely clothes x

[@csal7577]

You keep inspiring me and many others. Can’t wait to see your next project.

[@nathaliepalladino4128]

Love all of your wonderful, inspirational videos! You’re a joy❤

[@niguwinslow2744]

Thank you Alexandra for your encouraging words. It meant a lot for the beginner sewer like me. Can you recommend a good book for garments sewing please on how to read on measurements and connecting the dots or drafting. I love all your videos. Keep smiling and Happy Mother’s Day’s to you❤

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Hi there! So glad this helped. I haven't touched one sewing book, so I can't recommend anything yet, I think on ready measurements, there's plenty of videos out there, I just do very basic measurements of my body when I sew, so if you need more in depth info, I am sure "the professionals" can help!!! And I have tried drafting, my best advice for that is PATIENCE!!! A LOT! It takes a lot of hard work and patience to draft your own pattern - if you have the excitement for it, GO FOR IT! XXX Hope this is helpful, I am aware it's not the most detailed and informative response!

[@robertageo7338]

I love your videos and find them very inspiring. They have a calming effect and also feel real and down to earth. Thank you and keep sewing ❤

[@jennifers5778]

So so so good for your heart! Thank you for sharing your heart for sewng. I am on year 3 too. ❤

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Yes! Happy 3 YEARS!!!! XXX

[@annamarieh333]

Wow! I can’t believe you started with a trench coat! Amazing!

[@amybaitley6791]

Thank you so much for another encouraging video Alexandra! I am a good quilter but still struggling to sew clothing. I watch your videos for encouragement and then return to the sewing machine ❤ I am absolutely amazed with your choice of a trench coat for your first project!! You are so brave and I love how you conquered it! Have a wonderful day!

[@davidmadisontheguardian]

As a guy, I think in terms of self-sufficiency, so backpacks, and sacks, and cold weather gear, blankets, sleeping bags... that kind of a thing; but also I really like leather jackets, leather gloves and other leather gear. This was a phenomenal video. Proud of you. But what's even better, is that you're proud of yourself; and that's what really matters in the end. It's so cool how that person in the video supported you when you found out you'd made a mistake. I love to see that. For me, I never went to boy scouts or anything like that; so I never learned to tie knots. Figured I'd remedy that on KZbin. Once I got good at a few knots, stumbled upon Para cording designs... like the Cobra Weave which, once you understand the pattern can be used very quickly to create key chains and belts. I'd like to learn how to make bull whips next. Thanks for the inspiration, Alexandra! DM

[@sharonbrinders1224]

Thank you, I really appreciate your motivation and flair, you definitely are such an inspiration to many. Remain blessed xxx

[@pjacksreads536]

Beautiful story. I’m also learning and enjoying it very much

[@rebclout]

Soooo helpful!! I was referred here bc I’ve been delaying trying to make clothes after sewing for 3 years! Thank you for the inspiration, perfect timing of this video!

[@buicamtu4]

I always enjoy your positive and grounded attitude! Now that I'm a mom, the planning part is my biggest challenge! Hoping to find a routine in the future ❤ for now I will sew during nap time.

[@rebeccaw9656]

Hugely inspired by your story❤️.

[@louisealderman9385]

I love this video, thank you .

[@salmaa9790]

You accomplished a great job of learning all of this by yourself .I salute you from Saudi Arabia .

[@isabellekaputo3071]

This is very encouraging! Thanks for sharing! 💕

[@suzettewoolley5397]

Thank you sweetheart. Love your enthusiasm, honesty and positivity. May God bless you and your family😊❤

[@shafekaalexander2627]

I am sewing(played on mums machine) since childhood. Loved needle work. Only started sewing again since 2010. During the pandemic I sewed my first garment using a pattern. The tutorial was amazing and would not have been able yo do it without. I'm really really impressed at you'd skills and love your honesty. I cry happy/grateful tears all the time when I'm sewing. I would love to try a trench coat. I bough fabric in 2021 for when my skills&confidence improves.

[@lovereigns4017]

You're a beautiful, talented, intelligent woman Alexandria. You have a gift. Not everyone can sew. Thank you. ❤❤❤ Any word on somewhere to live yet?

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you! That's so kind! No update on the housing situation YET haha! xxx

[@debrarodriguezestrada2748]

I sent this video to my grand daughter who said she would love to sew! Thank you!

[@Wannaloom]

You are such a delight! Great tips!! “You know who knew? Google knew” 😊

[@estelanunezchannel]

Hello lovely video as someone that as been sewing since 6 years old,mom and grandma's sewed and great grandma was a pattern maker to sell , long long time ago every once in while i still learn ,everybody as different tactics .❤

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Yes definitely! XXX

[@tracye9654]

WOW! Extremely impressed with the clothing that you made. Like the fact that you tackled a project that you liked/wanted/needed for your first project (The Trench Coat), even though it was probably more advanced than your skill set was at the time. Despite the struggles and frustration, it looks like you did a wonderful job. The jeans are quite impressive too! Keep up the splendid work. You are an inspiration to me and I'm sure many others. BRAVO!

[@michelle-pm8yn]

Thank you sm for this video. The tips were really helpful xx

[@FullCircleLife]

Thanks you for your honesty and encouragement! Happy Mother’s Day from the USA

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much Toni. So, so kind! Y💕

[@chatsagain]

Your fabrics and style are very good

[@jeanniejudnich656]

Wow! I admire you!!!

[@JuFra87]

Dear Alexandra :) This is really one of the best sewing videos I have seen. The tip with "buy 3 patterns and make them and don't buy 1000 patterns and fabric because you can't manage to make everything at the same time" is a brilliant tip!!! I like to buy too many patterns, then get annoyed because I spent too much money and do not manage to sew everything. And yes, tastes change so quickly and I don't like the patterns I've already bought and I don't look forward to sewing them anymore, or the fabric I bought doesn't appeal to me anymore!!! I will do the same now, buy 3 patterns and only buy 3 again when I have sewn the other 3!!! :)Best wishes from Germany

[@user-pp8yo9fn6j]

SUCH GREAT ADVICE! Thank you!! HAPPY MOTHER"S DAY!!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much! Ah yes, Happy Mother's Day to everyone!!!

[@shif7905]

Enjoyed your videos as usual 🤩

[@zaynouba]

love your energy !

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you!!

[@jenyumz]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey 💖 I am currently trying to find the motivation to get into the groove of starting. I want to start a clothing business and your experiences have really resonated with me. Taking a sewing class in college has made me feel very overwhelmed and rushed. I am now getting back into learning and I’m so thankful that I was led to your video. Thank you 🥰🌟

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah I am so glad this video found you! Sounds like such an exciting dream to start a clothing business! I wish you all the best with it!!! 💕💕

[@VivianPrescodCots]

Thank you for your video, I will no stop sewing love what you said .

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I am so glad! Thank you for sharing! and all the best on your sewing journey!!! x

[@MsLaBajo]

My father and I are estranged but his mother, who I met only once, was a master seamstress. I feel like seeing is hard but she’s with me when I sew. I was taught the basics when I was little but don’t know how to sew complex garments. You live inspired me. Thank you.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah I am so happy to hear! Sewing is complex for sure, but once you know the basics, there are so many things you can make / sew! X

[@annaguzman3607]

Wow so awesome

[@joannapocock6055]

Thank you so much for this video you have given me the inspiration to get a pattern and have a go !!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You are so welcome!

[@HelloSuna]

Wow…thank you

[@morenagomes7607]

Excelente!👏

[@mariadejesusleal3538]

Gracias por la motivacion Desempolvare mi maquina de coser y lo intentare tengo 50 años creo todavia estoy a tiempo de aprender❤

[@sewwithmsjones1196]

You an absolute DAREDEVIL to have chosen a trench coat as your first project. With my students, I usually suggest a tote bag or PJ pants! Love your videos!

[@ashleyquinones3758]

Great tips! Thanks. 😊

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You are so welcome!

[@reginaeldracher4299]

I was laughing so hard for your first stitch and totally sympathizing! I spent days trying to get my great Aunt's table sewing machine working. The tension was a nightmare and I didn't have internet access at the time. I had to play with everything to get it. This was nearly (if not over) 15 years ago!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Oh my gosh! The struggle was so real!!!!! Haha! I am glad you found it funny!!!

[@debrarodriguezestrada2748]

I am going to see a trench coat! You inspired me!

[@demi6342]

Love this as always. I definitely need to stop buying fabric and patterns until I've made some things with the things I already have 😂 Save your money for pizza... Amen! I love the little clips of the first few things you made 😍 You are so cute as always and I absolutely love your lovely new top you're wearing. You look beautiful as always. Aww the clip of you crying when you cut your fabric wrong. It made me feel for you then and still does now. It's so frustrating when you do that 💔 Love this video 🥰🥰🥰

[@carterb43]

As usual, ❤❤❤. 😘!

[@TheMargieramos]

Thank you 😊

[@biblicaydecorosa]

Beautiful and encouraging video 🫶🏻

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much!

[@jesuslovesyou5310]

Thank you very much.

[@nasrineable]

Thanks

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much Blue Sky. So, so kind! 💕

[@dreamydesignsbyalia]

Very inspiring video

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed it!!!!

[@rebeccaevans5665]

Excellent video!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you very much!

[@Nadine-xb4oj]

Well, something you didn’t do at first was certainly search for “easy sewing pattern” 😂 a TRENCH COAT?!?! As first project?!?! I could NEVER hahahahah but kudos to you! My first sewing project was a dress with buttons, I made after buying an online class that was on discount and that came out horribly hahahaah just now I’m trying to modify it to make it wearable 😢❤ but we learn and we grow right?

[@cocasio7190]

Wow! Your first project was a coat!!! You are very brave! It looks pretty.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I know! wild!

[@yvonnejoy7962]

Wow! What was the pattern brand and number of the trench coat you sewed? You are absolutely amazing!!😲

[@ayeshaalam4571]

❤❤❤❤

[@clc3897]

Do you crochet? I think that should be your next venture. We need another Melanie Ham on KZbin.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Haha! No I don't! I looks like so much fun though! But at the moment, my hands are LITERALLY FULL! x

[@celestebrown6170]

Save your money for pizza 😂 love your videos so much! My journey has been very similar, pattern instructions and KZbin ❤

[@tierra4055]

The frustrated cry after the first stitch is so relatable LOLLL

[@silverpromidi]

I just wish that material did not cost so much over here in Aus 😞 that and I wish I could find an amazing op shop to go shopping in for materials 😀

[@afsaanabhatt4468]

I am so excited to start my journey with making me own clothes! But for every pattern I see that it needs a serger. Did you get a serger from the start or did you use alternative methods like zig zag stitch? I’m not a 100% sure if the zig zag stitch will be enough to hold the frayed edges. I would love some clarification or any suggestions on this!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I do French seams, zig zag, - it would be nice to have a serger but it's not essential to your sewing journey especially in the beginning! All the best with your sewing journey!

[@anisahandayani3568]

I don't know, i'm emotional ;( I wanna crying so bad she progress is so hard and me too ;( ;(

[@Louise-xr5ok]

I am new to sewing and having trouble following a pattern. I don’t know where to start before even cutting out the pattern. I can’t seem to follow the lines where to do as so many overlapping lines.

[@knit-sewdelight8664]

Self taught as well, sewing, knitting and crochet! Just try and practice and use all the resources you can especially the free ones. Maybe find people around you that are familiar with the art to help you.

[@mel_issa__]

I highly recommend tutorials from Minerva they're a UK based fabric snd pattern shop and have a lot of good videos on KZbin

[@ugsvciwa]

Love it! How can I get free patterns?

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Hi, there's a link in description of this video to the video I posted recently with lots of beginner friendly free patterns. Hope this helps! X

[@ugsvciwa]

Thank you 😊

[@shou80199]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@debcurtis3670]

I love your sews and I love your personality vibe. I am just now learning after years of frustration how to fix the wrongs of pattern fitting. Let’s face it most patterns were designed for size 10 bust size B. Who picks up a pattern and it fits? It’s frustrating to watch videos of women sewing a pattern but DON’T show the fitting aspect of it. Why is that? I’ve picked up books on fitting and have been working on fit with muslin after muslin. Please show any adjustments you have to make for fitting. Isn’t that the

[@debcurtis3670]

Most frustrating part of sewing?

[@ec-wq7jn]

What sewing machine do you recommend ?

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Depends what you're after but I love my Janome 360 DC x

[@Deserie]

pls help.. I don't know where to start. The only thing I've sewn is a tote bag but I got interested in sewing because I wanted to learn how to sew my own clothes and lingerie and I just don't know where to start. Like where do I find the perfect fabric? How can I sew my own clothes? how do I learn?

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Hey so I would start by picking a pattern. And then some fabric for that pattern. And make that pattern. Ideally find a pattern that has a video tutorial (tint of mint patterns are great for that). That’s what I would do!!! Sending love and all the best.

[@nu3salud]

How old were you when you started ? I want to learn too but I have three children but I still want to learn.

[@marymary5494]

Your first project was a trench coat? 😳 Good for you.

[@chatsagain]

Do you still have the pattern name and number for the trench coat? I'm relearning how to sew after decades of not sewing!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Hey Yes! On my channel there's a video all about how I made the trench coat, kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKi9pIyLp6l2kNk hope you enjoy watching!

[@bentali7313]

All of your vedious are for meeeeeeeee what a great conection i am so greatfull iam one of your subscribers i feel free and comfertable to send you without even fixing my bad writing hhhhhhh

[@HamsterBoi330]

I wanna learn how because I can't find a good style for my self

[@seemimajid5620]

Hi l want you to make a complete sewing machine tutorial.

[@rosainecalmeyer4428]

I cannot believe you made yourself a trench coat as your first garment. So difficult

[@talloolahmoon]

🤍

[@that.braziliangirl]

OMG I had to pause to comment, I just love your energy! There’s so much love in the way you speak I’m so excited to start sewing 🧵 thank you so much for sharing it!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much! And wishing you all the best on your journey of learning! X

[@AnaGonzalez001]

This was so inspiring 🩷 I’m about to start my sowing journey, I’m a complete beginner!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You got this!

[@derbyshireguru5680]

I drifted into sewing when I began buying, refurbishing, and reselling vintage machines: I had to test them to make sure they were working properly and was always scrounging for bits of fabric to test the machines.... One day someone gave me a load of fabric remnants; some of which my teenage daughter took a shine to and thought would make a great working coat.... Could I make one? turned into let's have a go.... A month later I had made a lovely burnt orange wool mix and leather coat, lined with orange and black checkered cotton... I was really pleased, it had took a while and much google searching, YT tutorials, head scratching and lots of unpicking... but I finally got there. My daughter loves it and teams it with her Stetson newsboy cap for that unique look. Since then I've been well and truly bitten by the sewing bug; mainly practical stuff like Jeans, cargo trousers and flannel shirts.... So if I (and I'm a guy) can learn anyone can, picking a harder project and diving in can sometimes be exactly what you need (like your trench coat; not exactly a beginner project)... practice on scraps, google and Tube, and buy a bit extra fabric for the mistakes you will make.... My daughter now sews too has her own machines (vintage) and has now made shirts and dungarees too.

[@SuzieBlue716]

Thanks