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

[@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

[@angelinalozada189]

Your first pattern was a trench coat??? HOLY COW!!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I had nothing to lose haha! It was the pandemic and I was bored. 🤪

[@turtles1717]

@@AlexandraBurnett It looked great! I wouldn't have known you made it yourself and that it was your first sewing project! 🤩

[@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!!!!!

[@Tomato-ripe]

Do u paint for reborn?

[@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!

[@KevinBarnes-v8j]

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!!!

[@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 🐾🥰

[@Sheri...]

Wow, your skirt was a pretty advanced project also.

[@sewwithmsjones1196]

You are 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!

[@alrighttumbleweed4782]

Omg - you crying over your first stitch is so relatable lol!! I totally forgot about my sewing machine being completely unusable at first. We took it to be repaired so many times and ultimately figured out it was all because we were putting the bobbin in the wrong direction 😂

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Hahah! I am glad others have been there. It’s such a struggle in those early days!

[@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

[@imrann1146]

Oh please don't ever shut up! I love your voice so much, very soothing!😭❣️

[@seemuday]

At least you knew what to search 🤣 I don’t know any terminology to look for - thank you for the honest video

[@BeccyD]

I love the idea to sew a bigger project and learning the techniques you need along the way. The likely more difficult garments always come out a little bit nicer because I don't expect them to be sewn up fast. So I take my time. I'm quite impatient so that's the most difficult. Rushing through often leads to mistakes. I also like to a sew a pattern more often and just change one bit to see what that changes. That make my technical skills stronger. Happy sewing 🧵🪡❤

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Yes taking the time with something a learning as you go is my preferred method. 🩷

[@annamarieh333]

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

[@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💕

[@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

[@Sheri...]

Yes, this buy 3, then make those 3 before buying any more patterns and fabric is a great tip. Too late for me unfortunately.

[@barbarah.k.1326]

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

[@ostapei89]

Thank you!! I’ve been on the fence about getting a sewing machine and I’m finally going to ask my hubs for one for Christmas. Your joy and beautiful nature are so evident and I’m excited to get started and learn. Also newly subscribed to your channel!

[@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!

[@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

[@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 ✨

[@grettalemabouchou6779]

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

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Righhhhhhtttt? Sheets is such a smart place to start, takes the pressure off.

[@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!

[@jenniferlevine5406]

Great video! I am so out of practice I decided I needed to 'start again'. I was mainly self taught before the internet age so I feel like I probably have a bunch of things to unlearn. Your first projects are beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

[@nasrineable]

Thanks

[@AlexandraBurnett]

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

[@Wannaloom]

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

[@cherylbecker_ecreatestitches]

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

[@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

[@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!,,,, 😊

[@Sheri...]

I agree. Starting out making a trench coat is crazy. But she did it & what a great feeling of accomplishment that must have givn her.

[@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!

[@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

[@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

[@megs_ae1617]

I needed to hear this! I’ve been wanting to learn how to sew for awhile but it feels so overwhelming and i feel like I need to learn so much before I start, but you are so right! Learning along the way is such a great way to do it. Starting today, thanks for the push!

[@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

[@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 ❤

[@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.

[@SandraLopez-qf8yi]

Wow I love how you shared your experience this has given me a push thank you.

[@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!

[@itssewtanschi]

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

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

[@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.

[@pjacksreads536]

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

[@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!

[@gwenschmidt3818]

I found your video and you have inspired me in the way you began your sewing journey, the questions and methods you used is so important. I love that you wanted a new hobby to help your mental health 😢. I’m hopeful too that I can breathe new life into me through the new skills i want to learn. My late mother knew how to sew and mend, crochet. I learnt how to cross stitch, self taught how to draw and paint in last two years from KZbin university 😅. May God bless you

[@suzettewoolley5397]

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

[@salmaa9790]

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

[@Cass_772]

OMG a trench coat is a bit intense for a first project hihi I started with a little bag, then a t-shirt, then a robe, than a pant, I do not even wanna try a trench coat yet! Congrats you are really good!

[@annemounga4725]

Just seen this video first time, didn't realise how much I needed to hear this, thank you for sharing your journey.

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Of course!!! Thank you for watching.

[@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!!! 💕💕

[@jayeannabee]

You’re an inspiration and your work is absolutely beautiful! I’m beginning my journey so thank you for sharing yours. Xx

[@csal7577]

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

[@suburbanwreck]

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

[@DarHarper-i8o]

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

[@AlexandraBurnett]

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

[@louisealderman9385]

I love this video, thank you .

[@wendygoldsmith5530]

That is so excellent you totally smashed it amazing x

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah thank you! X

[@jodiehampson]

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

[@rebeccaw9656]

Hugely inspired by your story❤️.

[@alinao1221]

Looking great Mamacita! Thank u for the amazing video!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

My pleasure!!

[@nathaliepalladino4128]

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

[@meldixon1918]

Love this video, thanks for putting it together ❤

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nicolepapatheodorou274]

you are a sweetheart. thank you for sharing your knowledge and vulnerability with us

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You are so welcome

[@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

[@sharonbrinders1224]

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

[@cocasio7190]

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

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I know! wild!

[@theresiakawengian3672]

Aww love your vibe❤️

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah thanks for watching!

[@geumgyuljuseyo]

many thanks! i love your positive vibe😄 this video makes me want to try sewing again

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah thank you so much! X

[@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!

[@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

[@lindasnethen7526]

I can’t wait to learn from you. Thank you for this video I found it very inspirational!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Ah great to hear this helped. Lots of other videos on sewing on my channel, now it’s about life in general, but still lots of tips in the past vids.

[@wifeoftim]

I'm learning to sew again. I made a denim skirt for a concert. I have homeschool curriculum to teach myself to sew so my next project is to sew a dress but I'm a little afraid. I've never done a zipper or set sleeves. I guess I better read and do the lessons on zips and sleeves.

[@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!

[@debrarodriguezestrada2748]

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

[@dinuliperera6337]

thank you for this useful video🥰

[@mariadejesusleal3538]

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

[@Jxliaas]

So I'm a beginner sewer and I bought some fabrics some months ago but I have only made a pair of shorts until now and I'm so frustrated because I can't find any free patterns online that excite me. And if I do, you're gonna need all these materials I don't have. I just want to make crazy exciting clothing that actually makes me happy, making a simple non fit dress doesn't rly

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I have a few videos on free patterns that are fun and modern so do check those out. Yes, I remember when I was starting out it was so hard to find the time and the resources for this craft, but I found, that picking just one pattern and fabric and really taking my time with it is more rewarding and peaceful than trying to do it all in the space of a day. Take it easy and see if you truly enjoy this hobby. There should be no pressure. Charity shops are great for fabric which is more affordable.

[@zabou3675]

love your energy !

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you!!

[@jeannie82024]

Wow! I admire you!!!

[@chatsagain]

Your fabrics and style are very good

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so 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?

[@michelle-pm8yn]

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

[@tierra4055]

The frustrated cry after the first stitch is so relatable LOLLL

[@sreevandana5482]

Hey, nice video. Thank you for sharing How did u choose ur 1st sewing machine? I am trying to short list few.. buts there r some many models.. not sure what I should buy.. any recommendations!? My priorities r also sewing everyday cloths or up cycling few dresses.. that include denim fabric

[@AlexandraBurnett]

I went into a shop and chatted to the owner. I talked about what I wanted to sew and I went with his recommendation. And I still love my sewing machine now. Almost 5 years since I bought it.

[@Isabelle_km]

This is very encouraging! Thanks for sharing! 💕

[@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 🥰🥰🥰

[@ashleyquinones3758]

Great tips! Thanks. 😊

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You are so welcome!

[@rebeccaevans5665]

Excellent video!

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you very much!

[@shif7905]

Enjoyed your videos as usual 🤩

[@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?

[@carterb43]

As usual, ❤❤❤. 😘!

[@miraclethankgod9989]

Hi I so much love the caption of this video bios I feel n Iove it. I like sewing but my problem is I will feel like to sew , I will cut a pattern to sew it the zeal will die and the cut fabric will not be sewn . This kept repeating .

[@Verdadesquesanan]

Beautiful and encouraging video 🫶🏻

[@AlexandraBurnett]

Thank you so much!

[@MadeByTriniLena]

Awww great video 🧵✅

[@AlexandraBurnett]

So glad you enjoyed it

[@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

[@annaguzman3607]

Wow so awesome

[@HelloSuna]

Wow…thank you

[@AlexandraBurnett]

You're welcome 😊

[@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!

[@morenagomes7607]

Excelente!👏

[@TheMargieramos]

Thank you 😊

[@withlesego]

Very helpful, thank you

[@AlexandraBurnett]

So glad to know this was helpful