How to Make Your Sewing Look More Professional (My Best Sewing Tips!) | Sewing For Beginners #12

My best tips for professional looking sewing (how to make your sewing look better!) - Sewing For Beginners Episode 12! WATCH THE PREVIOUS EPISODE HERE: • How To Sew a Zip (Step...
Shop my sewing patterns: www.roseryapparel.com/shop
What I'm wearing: • Easy Shirred Dress Tut...
Things mentioned:
Full sewing basics playlist: bit.ly/46x1atu
Guttermann thread: amzn.to/40aN2mE *
How to use an overlocker/serger video:
Easy PJ shorts pattern: www.roseryapparel.com/the-ros...
My sewing patterns: www.roseryapparel.com/shop
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:47 Matching your thread to your fabric
01:26 Press the seams
01:58 Use good quality thread
02:59 Invest in an overlocker/serger
03:41 Pattern match your fabric
04:16 Add top-stitching
04:53 Thanks for watching!
Equipment Used:
Camera: Fujifilm X-T4
Sewing machine: Brother FS101 (gifted)
Overlocker/Serger: Singer 14sh644
My fabric scissors: ldhscissors.com?bg_ref=Ol3q8HPRD7 *
Where to find me:
+ Shop: www.roseryapparel.com/shop
+ Instagram: / roseryapparel
+ Twitter: / roseryapparel​​​
* Affiliate Link. This means that if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive a small percentage of your purchase (at no extra cost to you).
Icon credit: bit.ly/3K23hwg

[@jessdunstan]

My tip is to not sew tired. You end up making mistakes, getting frustrated and having to redo so many things 😊

[@jacquelinek5036]

Soon true! Every time I tell myself, "I'll stop as soon as I finish this next step," I wind up finishing the night with the seam ripper. Save yourself the irritation!

[@RoseryApparel]

Yes 100%! I could not agree more with you on this!

[@Twylitegalaxy]

I should have read this comment before trying to finish a chiffon puff sleeve where I forgot to leave an elastic channel so I had to cut my stitches out and do it again 😅😂😭

[@jessdunstan]

@@Twylitegalaxy oh no chiffon is definitely a fabric that needs to be dealt with only when wide awake 😂😂

[@madame.banoffee]

Oh gosh, just set in the sleeves, reversed. Taking a break NOW, although I was in such a smooth flow, haha. It’s just the lining, but whichever I turn it they don’t fit the sleeves of the blazer.

[@blackcatz1364]

My tip is to take your time - for the longest time I was so excited to get my garment done and would rush to finish it. The results were mixed - sometimes good, mostly average and a few that ended up in the bin. I have forced my self to slow down and take my time and the results are a much better when I do this. Patience is still not really one of my virtues but I am working on it 🙂

[@vikkibendle1341]

Absolutely! I now chunk it down and only figure on getting it cut out on the first day….. I just take it slowly and figure on a dress or top taking 3-5 days….

[@ThatWeirdFinn]

This would be my top tip too! Don't be afraid to take a break to eat and rest and it's ok to draw the pattern one day, cut another and sew another day. Highly recommend!

[@angelicavis]

This! And have the patience to make a toile (note to self) 😅

[@blackcatz1364]

ha ha @@angelicavis , yeah I am not this patient (yet)

[@partyfiesta1557]

Another tip: matching your sewing needle to the fabric weight and type

[@tammyjohnson8150]

That is a good point. I am a very new sewer and I am having issues with needle hole sizes and my stitches. Do you have any suggestions on how I could learn how to use the correct size needle for the fabric I want to use? Thank you for any advice. Tammy 🦋😁

[@partyfiesta1557]

@@tammyjohnson8150 it gets easier with practice but lighter fabrics use 60/70 needle sizes for instance. Don’t forget to swap out your universal needle for a ballpoint or jersey needle when using stretchy fabric. You will also need jeans needles for denim. Microtex are a nice addition too. Test before committing to anything. It might seem cumbersome at first but it’ll help you with getting the results you are looking for.

[@hooray4pie145]

Pressing every step and investing in an overlocker changed my makes from "aw thats so cute and colourful" to "what collection from Gorman is that from?" 😄 Also dont sew when you're tired/sore. It always leads to tears and in my case an existential crisis about how chronic illness has affected my life.

[@RoseryApparel]

Yep 100%!!

[@ThatWeirdFinn]

Hugs!

[@I_sew_slow]

As someone with chronic illness and chronic fatigue I wholeheartedly agree (I thought it was just me so thank you for sharing)

[@mckenzielangendorf1437]

As another fellow chronic illness-haver, 100% yes 😂😩

[@sherylthomas9156]

I quit sewing because of the fibromyalgia flare ups. Do you have more tips on how to sew with chronic illness?

[@kindnessthehighestformofwisdom]

For me, the hardest part of a sewing project is the cutting of the fabric. If the fabric is not cut exactly problems with construction cascade throughout the project. So here are my tips .... Tip 1: take you time to make sure the fabric is laid flat and 'square' (not warped) is vital. Sometimes it is worth securing/taping the fabric to the cutting board so ensure the fabric stays in place, even before you have overlaid the pattern pieces. Tip 2: Cut your fabric perfectly! If your seems do not match up, your project is going to look wonky. I use a rotary cutter and use rulers (straight and curved) to ensure the pieces are perfectly cut. Tip 3: Elevate the construction of the pattern. Often pattern instructions recommend cheap finishing. Simple adjustments like folding a hem twice (so you can not see the raw edge at all) elevates the finish of your garment. You, of course, have to make adjustments to your pattern at the beginning before you cut the fabric. Happy sewing everyone!

[@ARQ_05]

I like to hand baste some things before running it through the sewing machine so that I’m sure nothing moves. I like to use it on zippers, laces, pipings, cuffs, etc.

[@emmy8526]

My belated Aha! smh learned-experience / advice would be: buy all the sewing machine needle options. - Knit needles for knit fabrics - Thinner (60, 70) needles for delicate fabric - Thicker needles (100) for fabrics like denim or sewing through many layers So often when a machine stitch fails or looks strange, we blame our skills when it’s in fact the most basic tool: the wrong machine needle. Essential!

[@therusfamily1196]

This took me the longest time to realise. It was a revelation to say the least! 😂

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I have to check that for my machine it is a Chicago 7. At the moment I am working through my stash so it takes up less room. My Bernette although no longer made is a bit new to me. So I need to know what needles to get I have a sewing plan to sew a dress with chiffon I am not sure what needles to get.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

Mind you I love my Bernette Chicago 7 I wish they still made it as I like its compactness.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I guess 60/70 needles

[@angelicavis]

I love top stitching ❤ After 1,5 year of sewing I have realized that I need to start making toiles. It is so much more work, but it will be worth it. I also love using French seams, which will make the garment look nicer but also stronger. Don't rush... which is quite hard for me personally as I'm very impatient. I have learned the hard way it's best to take a few days, it's no fun to finish it all in one day.

[@TheSolipsist0]

„Do not rush“, „pin or use clips before sewing“ and „adding (selfmade) tags“ made my sewing better.

[@maapeacecouturedressachild]

How do you do self made tags

[@TheSolipsist0]

@@maapeacecouturedressachild I bought cotton ribbing for tags, stamps (you can make them yourself or buy custom - there are even stamps with wasching information „30*C“ „Do not tumble try“) and wasching machine safe ink pads.

[@kvv90]

My tip is to ask your local library to invest in a serger (or sewing machine though they often have one already) with their funds, especially if you are just starting out and unsure if it's worth the investment. I did this two years ago and I'm able to use it frequently! I just plan accordingly and have my whole project cut out and ready to go and I can get it done within two weeks of borrowing it and it costs nothing.

[@RoseryApparel]

That’s such a good tip! I had no idea libraries offered sewing machine hire

[@heleneikerenkotter2950]

I had no idea that libraries had any sewing machines or sergers? Where is the country or cities have you ever seen those ?

[@kvv90]

Oh interesting! I'm in Canada. It really depends on the library, but my local rural library has all sorts of hobby related things to borrow. It's really great!

[@katem6562]

I wish we had this in the Uk and it would cut waste of abandoned projects and hobbies.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

What a great idea. I am super reluctant to buy one as I think you may lose fabric and ease in a garment if it cuts and overlocks at the same time. But I am keen to try one.

[@moyralouise7123]

I have some older threads that I use to zig zag around pieces to stop fraying, and keep my “good stuff” for seams, hems etc 😊

[@haileycarr9367]

How to draft different sizes on a homemade pattern without having to make each one would be helpful! Also, pinning things well helps to reduce on the “oh no I just sewed that wrong”… and taking time instead of rushing like others have said, is a good tip as well!

[@susanduff-silsby2695]

I’m wondering whether you might show us how to make a Japanese apron, Janelle? I did Needlework at High School in the late 60’s and it is amazing how those lessons have stayed with me! I actually remember stuff! Janelle, you keep adding to my knowledge, so thank you! Never to old to learn, regards from Susan at Hobart.

[@donnadodd6141]

I love a Japanese apron

[@carolyngrotaers4454]

I also think matching your buttons and zips to the fabric is important.

[@emilymcauley]

I would add picking the right fabric type for the project. Each material will have a different structure and drape that will play into how the final garment looks.

[@DawnWaterhouse]

Thank you, I would love to see a video on how to pattern match, where to start and any tips that can be offered in different types of patterns.

[@lanageorge5865]

I would also like to understand how to pattern match.

[@kylebrittellie]

How to read a pattern would be great for those who are intimidated by it!

[@RoseryApparel]

Great suggestion! Thank you x

[@arr255]

It was a huge relief when I realised I can use my hair straightener to press seams most of the time. I do not have the space for an iron to be set up, barely space for a sewing machine, so this was such a relief.

[@desireedeboer9811]

Hi Janelle, i love all your video's of sewing for beginner. I'm not a beginner, but i haven't sew for a long time. A few project i have in my mind to start with are pattrens of you. I show the when they are ready. This weekend the clock is going back for one hour (in the Netherlands and some other countries in Europe). Have a nice day. Greeting from Desiree 🇳🇱

[@RoseryApparel]

Thanks so much for watching Desiree, enjoy your sewing 🧡 xx

[@marathorne6821]

I agree totally about pressing seams as you go along. I would go further and say press the fabric AND the paper pattern before cutting out the pieces in the first place! I cringe when I watch some KZbinrs cut out crinkly fabric. You cannot get a precise result that way! I would add to the list "understitching" for facings, it really helps keep them from peeking out. Personally I don't like top stitching, although I agree it makes clothes look more like "ready to wear" garments, in my view it looks cheap. Hand stitching hems, for example, looks more "couture" to me. That's my mum's indoctrination talking... 😉 Lovely to see you putting out useful content like this, Janelle, thank you so much 😊

[@crystalneel748]

Yes I’ve also seen some sewing novices on KZbin chopping & hacking away at fabric that looks like crumpled up paper! It is very unnerving! Lol knowing that sewing such a garment will never line up right bc there is no way they lined up the pattern with the fabric grain nor will the notches match… it is cringe worthy! 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@vikkibendle1341]

Double and triple check that you have things the right way round and the correct side up before sewing…..

[@lauriepayseur5897]

I just binged this entire series… I feel like teaching people how to choose their size in patterns is of the utmost importance as the sizes on patterns is NOT the same as typical clothing sizes. Thanks in advance! Love your videos!

[@rebeccaw9656]

My tips are when you get the basic sewing skills down pat, is to move on next to perfecting fit (make a toíle or practice sew of the bodice, check for size, do you need to lower or raise darts, shorten or lengthen bodice length, where does the shoulder seam sit, etc. all very easy to learn with You-Tube videos which is how I learnt these things). Secondly if you can’t afford a serger/overlocker (or like me, too lazy to change to a different colour thread), learn how to do French seams or flat felled seams and to work with bias binding for a professional edge finish. Again, millions of tutorial videos on you-tube - and practice with scraps can take the fear away and improve skills😊. Thirdly, take breaks! If a mess is made, and can’t get our head around a solution (or just understanding pattern instructions), tomorrow is another day.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I have some fabric especially designed for toilet I will have to explore it more. I know some of the patterns you can get are designed for personal fittings and this fabric would be good for this. I really want to do some trousers.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I meant T o I l e auto correct made it look different so sorry

[@rebeccaw9656]

@@leepayk-bann3489 haha autocorrect, I knew what you meant😂

[@wazandmyar]

Thank you for this series 💗

[@sharonbrinders1224]

Hi Janelle, thank you for sharing your great tips, really enjoyed this informative series.

[@cor3944]

My upgrading is definetely lining and using natural fibers.

[@ninazaverl4600]

Thanks for sharing and your creativity God Bless you.👍🏼☺️

[@thebarefoothobbit]

Pressing seams is the bane of my existence haha

[@missrobinhoodie]

Just got a second hand overlocker for my birthday and I‘m still learning how to use it! Also so interesting how Gütermann threads are all over the sewing community around the globe. As a Swiss person I assumed they are just the local choice for my region 😂

[@carolines2088]

Great video, thank you

[@user-qz3dj4sy6n]

Guttemberg threads cost €1,80 in Northern Spain

[@saintamerican6105]

Thank you!

[@crystalneel748]

Yes! excellent sewing tips! I would say that seam pressing as you sew is an absolute necessity to have anything come out looking tight & right! Not seam pressing is like trying to write on crumpled up paper! It’s just tacky! Tip I would add is to learn to lay patterns out matching the grain lines on the patterns. If the pattern is not cut with the proper grain line the garment will never lay right on the body & will be an out of shape disaster once it’s laundered. Also I think learning to read patterns would cover many important sewing techniques possibly overlooked. Back in the day we took homeEc classes & had to practice & be tested on pattern reading! Sewing used to be considered a basic home makers life skill! Lol I’d like to see you make some of the garments in the Japanese pattern books you got in Japan. Their styles are very unique! I love their wide leg pants & oversized smock style dresses!

[@karingrif7238]

Hi Janelle, I’m wondering if you can help with the different types of interfacing. Please

[@cori3744]

I love this series! Would be interested in adjusting patterns, when inbetween sizes :)

[@chloeh8519]

Oil your machine! My sewing machine would skip stitches and struggle to start stitching. I almost bought a new one until I oiled all the moving parts and joins I could see. Works like a dream now!

[@thefarmerswifecanada]

Interestingly, once I got into sewing, it made it easier to detect the quality of items at the store. Especially the fabric quality. So many cheap clothes out there (and not in price! 😅). I much prefer to make my own clothes if I can.

[@mirabellegoldapfel6256]

My tip is: When in doubt, try handsew it. It might not be as sturdy as a machine stich, but mistakes are so much easier to correct. And maybe look up seam finishes beyond serger or zigzag. While most store bought clothes nowadays have serged insides, french seams, felled seams, bias taped seams etc. are better looking in my opinion and also are less scratchy.

[@Lazydaisy646]

I have the bodice of my grandmothers wedding dress from 1924 . Its handsewn and still firmly attached..

[@mirabellegoldapfel6256]

@@Lazydaisy646 I got a corset cover (probably) from a flea market for 5 bucks and the hand stitches are so perfect and tight it might have been a machine. And if it is a corset cover this piece should be oooold. However if you watch a video on how to make sewing more pro looking, your handstich game is more likely to be not there yet. But it is a very useful and cheap to invest some time into it, a handsewn blind hem on a skirt looks much nicer to me, then even the a good top stiched one (but that might be the vintage lover in me.)

[@kylebrittellie]

Backstitching or tying off your threads is so important. Your stitches will start to unravel and that will not be a happy day! :) Also, invest in good quality scissors! Fabric scissors, paper scissors (those don't have to be expensive) and thread cutters!

[@leepayk-bann3489]

Can you do a video on hemming a garment and its final finish I know you cover this in many of your online material but I would appreciate tips in this are such as different types of hems ie for a wrap dress, blind hems, invisible, straight hems and what to do re hanging threads slightly uneven lines on the dress or item so fixing it for the final finishing of a garment. Is that possible?

[@RoseryApparel]

Great suggestion! I’ll add it to the list for future episodes 😊

[@timmabbb]

Me watching this knowing I've wanted to start sewing for years and have gathered material so I can but still haven't started

[@sherylthomas9156]

What is the dress pattern you are wearing. I love it.

[@teddygingerbear1372]

I’ve really enjoyed your tutorials. Would love to use several of your patterns but live in USA. Will you ever offer paper patterns to those of us not residing in Australia? PDF patterns are okay for smaller projects or quilt patterns but many of us really appreciate full size paper patterns. Thank you!

[@RoseryApparel]

Thanks for being interested in my sewing patterns! I ship my paper patterns worldwide 😊

[@ideasoftrends]

❤❤❤nuce

[@mariacraciun5338]

My tip is to invest time in learning finishing techniques and invest in good quality fabric. If you are putting 15-20 hours into making a garment that you want to last for years and years , invest in the pattern, the fabric and take your time. Always research every step before you start. Sewing at home is not fast fashion.

[@kaygee8343]

Tip number 2 should be tip number 1.

[@SAkbar-fb4jv]

Hi dear I am a girl and student. Can you give me online classes about sewing...? Please reply and how contact you...?