SEWING 101 // Ultimate Beginners Guide

Make what you can and ethically source the rest!
Welcome to The Essentials Club tutorial channel which is all about sharing the steps to become more resourceful and creative with crafting your own minimal, conscious wardrobe.
This video is the ultimate guide for those beginning their sewing journey. In this I cover everything you need to now to confidently get behind the machine and be able to sew some basic garments. I also use these basic sewing skills to share some simple thrift flips, so enjoy watching the outcome of these transformations along the way :)
The Essentials of Fabric E-Book: theessentialscl...
See timestamps and breakdown of what's included below:
0:00 - Overview
0:41 - Intro to basic terminology
2:50 - How to thread a machine
5:50 - How to sew a straight line
8:17 - How to sew a basic hem
9:46 - How to add an elastic waistband
13:32 - How to take in an oversized pair of pants
15:28 - How to add buttonholes and attach button
20:04 - How to gather material and add ruffled sections
23:21 - Final wrap up
Link mentioned in video:
Detailed video of how to take pants in: • DIY // Transform an ov...
Find me here:
Insta - / theessentialsclub
Tik Tok - / theessentialsclub
Pinterest - www.pinterest....
See more tutorial blogposts on my journal: theessentialscl...
Music:
Summer in NY - Dyalla Swain
Fred on the Fritz - Dyalla Swain
Birds in Flight - Dan Lebowitz
FAQ
What machine do you use?
Studio Machine: amzn.to/3AooptZ *
Old Home Machine: amzn.to/4dlQW1R *
Sewing Essentials?
Basic Kit: amzn.to/3YIe1Y0
Extensive Kit: amzn.to/3YQ7RFg
What Tech do You Use?
Tutorial Camera: amzn.to/4cG4hBf *
Vlogging Camera: amzn.to/3M5oCos *
Next Dream Camera: amzn.to/46JKpM6 *
Wireless Mic: amzn.to/3SRQbFB *
Website Builder: Squarespace.sy... *
Editing Laptop: amzn.to/3M3yLlC
Links with * are affiliate, meaning I am compensated monetarily if you join or make a purchase. Thanks for your support!

[@annaq4778]

This couldn't of come at a better time! I just ordered a sewing machine to hopefully learn a new skill while in iso!!

[@TheEssentialsClub]

YAY! Love hearing this so much!

[@malakabughazaleh2756]

I want to buy a sewing machine, any recommendations?

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@yourdadsof1325]

I wonder how it went and if you're still sewing a year later? Did you get better?

[@nikithavp2158]

Same

[@meganmcpherson5026]

I have been attempting to teach myself to sew for almost 2 years. In that time I have subscribed to so many sewing courses but they all speak like I'm just suppose to know all these sewing terms and should already know all the basics. (In a way I do because like alot of girls, I had a grandmother who was always sitting a sewing machine and attempting to teach me.) YOU are now my KZbin Sewing mentor. I love how you speak slowly and clearly for those of us who are constantly pausing and writing these things down. Thank you so much for creating these videos!!!!!!

[@proudasiangirl576]

Yes, learning to sew, there's a whole new language involved. The massive amount of vocabulary and how each technique can be used is overwhelming but after watching so many different videos from different people, I am slowly starting to grasp what things mean!

[@mariloca11]

I can't believe the amount of useful information you explained so clearly in just 23 minutes! Thank you!!

[@traceythorpe502]

Wow thank you ! What a wonderful teacher, I’m a beginner at the age of 57 😄 and you have taught me so much in one tutorial your great had to subscribe 😉

[@simmoneb4524]

Good on you Tracey for learning to sew. I hope you're progressing well. I agree, Maddy is a terrific teacher.

[@Killadey]

Sewing isnt as hard as it seams.

[@amyjones8791]

badum psh

[@Lifewmadss]

Oh Hahaha

[@youtubegj-mi3vw]

LIAR!!! Shut your piehole por favor (I just had a mental breakdown trying to fix a sewing machine)

[@IMSLAYYYY]

You’d be great at dad jokes💀10/10

[@mshlony]

It is 😂😂😂

[@user-xw5ie2hm9t]

Up until this point, I've had a sewing machine sitting at home but was too intimidated to use it. This video has literally given me the confidence to give it a try. Thank you so much xx

[@auraliiqs]

My love for sewing started through my grandmother who sewed clothes and sold it. My mom sees a little too. I love sewing, I got a bit of items to start my path to become a master at sewing just like my grandmother.

[@thersday_]

thank you for this!!! i loved how you explained everything simply but clearly and the way you filmed and edited this is *chef's kiss*

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@fernandacaliari8079]

i’m trying to learn how to sew AND THIS WAS SO GOOD TTwTT THANK YOU

[@delorisehammond2551]

You have a great voice and make it sounds like a breeze, however, your techniques are superb. Thank you for your time and encouragement. I will tuning in again. thanks.

[@AbbyIzaNinja]

this is by far the best intro sewing video ive seen. to the point but still descriptive enough, shows all the basics in detail. just perfect thank you!

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@betsyross2325]

It's been over 10 years since I have sewn anything, so I greatly appreciate this basic introduction to sewing.

[@genesisansbro4936]

I want to start making clothes for my baby 💕 it’s so hard to find affordable baby clothes that’s not bombarded with glitter and unicorns 😅

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@misslyenastrama]

girl... i was just telling my boyfriend that the other day. i feel you on that !

[@ronin9823]

I’m looking to start sewing clothes and stuff since I’m gonna be a stay at home dad for a few months, I’d love the idea of just hanging out with my daughter and making her clothes

[@proudasiangirl576]

Right?! I hate shopping for girls clothes, not just baby clothes that's full of glitter and unicorns. It's so annoying and this is at all stores!

[@ktburger659]

That’s an interesting side effect of capitalism+clothing fire regulations! Baby & kids clothes is covered in stuff like that to signal they aren’t pajamas. Pajamas are subject to more restrictive fire regulations and manufacturers must jump through more hoops which is more expensive. So they put a lot of stuff on them to indicate they are not meant to be slept in, resulting in garish clothing.

[@Pinkrangerkym]

Wow, this was perfect. As a person that hasn't sewed in a while you really helped refresh my memory with these basics. Great work and thank you so much!

[@vivianarodriguez6780]

Thank you so so much for this video! I really needed something to really go into the basics of using a sewing machine and your video was just perfect- you're clear and confident, easy to follow, and I also appreciate that you show how to hem and make ruffles as well. I bought a sewing machine and just opened it yesterday and now I feel less lost about where to begin lol

[@librarycarrot]

Thank you for explaining this in such a succinct and respectful way. I didn't think I would need all this information as a beginner, but it all helps me realize what a beginner can do. I'm tired of people recommending I just make pillowcases. I hope I soon become as confident as you with diving in and making cuts and stitches instead of stressing out over each minor step of the process. You're an inspiration!

[@heidibarragan5113]

Definitely the most comprehensive beginners sewing ever! I have been looking for this type of video and so glad i found it!! Thank you, thank you!

[@jaded_balrog]

I just got a free sewing machine the other day and this was SO helpful - thank you!

[@juliamorawska8181]

Hey! Actually there is a tiny metal wire loop next to the base of the needle (seen at 4:23) , that you should loop the thread through to keep it more parallel to the needle (and i guess less prone to snapping). Hope that helps!

[@TheEssentialsClub]

yes that's true! Thanks for the extra note :)

[@Jodyfaye17]

Thank you for mentioning this. I’m new to sewing and have watched several videos and thought that that loop had been skipped but wasn’t sure. Glad to know I wasn’t crazy. 👍

[@robinbebbington7063]

Yeah that's the first thing I thought. But not a big deal. Overall great starter video.

[@belencoronado9855]

This is so helpful! thank you! i just bought my first sewing machine last month after watching your videos for the past 2 years. you have really inspired me to design and upcycle my own clothes. much love from California

[@TheEssentialsClub]

That's sooo sweet!! Thank you for your support. Makes my day hearing that this helped you x x

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@blossomnessstudios4446]

My mom got me a Janome Magnolia for Christmas and I'm so excited to start making and altering my own clothes!!! This was soooo helpful, it's the basic parts everyone skips over in other tutorials.

[@user-uc6bb1tg9d]

OMG every question that appeared in my head she answered it. Thank you it was very helpful 💙

[@delorisssm2948]

You have no idea how much I needed this video, SO SO happy I found your Channel 🤩❤️

[@MsLilywren]

Just trying to learn how to sew and use my machine. I've had the machine for three years where it has been staring at me and saying 'don't come near me you clumsy ox, you will only sew your fingers together!' I've decided the sewing machine will not threaten me like that anymore 🤣😂 I've watched a few beginners sewing guides but yours has been the most straightforward and simplest to follow. I feel inspired to go and give that machine what for, rather than come away quivering and thinking wtf went on there? Thank you xx

[@lilitoskova]

Oooohhh finally someone explains all those terms!!!!!❤ thank you!

[@sarahjuell3757]

Watching this with the subtitles on and still being able to learn because you taught at a pace that works with the subtitles. Thank you! Can't wait to make some Christmas presents soon!

[@henabee6752]

This was super helpful! I haven’t sewn since studying textiles in school, finally got myself a sewing machine and hoping to get creative! Thank you for sharing.

[@lemonmeringue7722]

this video is obviously quite old, however I need to say a big thank you to you! I am opening my own boutique online and my sewing skills are improving I'm getting a new sewing machine in a few weeks but I am so happy I found this video, this is the most well explained video out there and I am very happy with how you explained the steps. Big help thank you!!!

[@JDempsey23]

Oh my gosh thank you so much for this. There seems to be no in-between sewing videos for beginners. It’s all just basic tips and tools for getting started or first project videos. I’m not confident enough to start my first project because I have no idea what people are talking about! The terminology explanation here was so helpful as well as explaining hemming and seeming! And talking through what you were doing each step. You’re a blessing 🙏😂

[@billie7964]

Really helpful with the glossary at the start. And a good pace! I've found other tutorials go a bit too fast and this is nice and slow.

[@g.borgia5100]

Speed can be slowed down by going to the top right, click the gear box which will open a menu and you can make speed adjustments there

[@KARIS1961]

You took me back to middle school. That was decades ago. Surprised how much I remembered! I just loved your vid! Easy and clear. Huge thanks! ❤

[@candidlycatie1514]

Thank you so much for creating this video! I struggled to find videos on here that helped me understand the basics of sewing and you knocked it out of the park. Thank you!

[@larinasong]

This is the best tutorial i could ever find. Ive been wanting to see for almost 2 years now but finding a good tutorial is difficult especially since i have adhd but this helped so much and im already so much better than i was a couple hours ago

[@nourzourob519]

This was one of the best videos I ever watched on sewing basics, thank you so much!

[@DuongNguyen-xf8qn]

Thank you so much. Your instruction is clear and easy to follow ❤

[@jessicachung7248]

amazing video! you explain things so clearly and concisely and went over so many great skills!! looking forward to trying this at home 🥳

[@elliebrooks329]

This video was so helpful! I just dug my grandma's old sewing machine out of my parents basement to start doing some projects. I only have a little experience sewing on a machine so this is perfect!

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@loquiturmaka]

I recently bought a sewing machine and I am grateful I found your channel because I want to teach myself to sew and hopefully with time I will teach my daughter too.

[@zechariahcasas44]

thank you so much for sharing your talent.

[@candice_ecidnac]

Hoooooly cow, threading the machine is a lot more complicated than I thought it would be. Wow. I was just gifted a Singer model 347 with its own table and I've always wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine. I did not expect just threading it to be so complicated. Goodness. Here's hoping I can get past that part so I can start sewing 😆

[@rainnnnn28]

This video helped me a lot. Now I have made my own shorts, scrunchie and zipper pouches. Next I’m planning to learn to upcycle my old clothes. Thank you so much for this video!

[@Popsodapop89]

Thank you for this!!! What a great tutorial for beginners!! Best one I’ve seen! Can’t wait to start sewing. I’ve been wanting to upcycle clothes for so long now.

[@annd8396]

Agreed, Stacia! I think she’s a ‘natural’ tutor.. ☺️

[@proudasiangirl576]

This was a very good video. Thank you for taking the time with showing us the "hows".

[@giddyHattie]

Wow! Thank you so much for taking the time to make this and explain everything! I will definitely be going back to this when I get stuck 😃

[@TheEssentialsClub]

You are so so welcome! Hope it comes in handy for those times you do get stuck :)

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@slowerhell]

That dress made out of a skirt is SO cute!! I'll be here, impatiently waiting for the thrift shops to open back up so I can try and make something similar 😁

[@TheEssentialsClub]

haha love that! Thanks so much x

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@sam.4922]

I’m so glad I found your channel, I wanted to learn sewing because it’s cheaper and more customisable etc.. than simple fast fashion. Also, I could alter thrifted clothes! Can’t wait to start again

[@jessicashackleford7614]

I love these videos since lockdown I've gotten into sewing and they've really helped x

[@TheEssentialsClub]

yayy! Love hearing that x x

[@lalmgh]

I sewed for many years, then took a 30 year break and am now back to it ! Your video is excellent !

[@onedeathbyflame]

btw you're presentation is beautiful, love the soft light

[@misslyenastrama]

I WISH i watched this yesterday before i tried to make my own adjustments! this video is amazing! how could anyone dislike it!!

[@xxSydneyFox]

I just wanted to say this is such a great tutorial! You make it look easy and make me excited to try all you've shown! Thank you ❤❤❤❤❤

[@AlysiasArtStudio]

This is wonderful! I learned a small amount from my great grandmother almost 50 years ago and have wanted to truly learn to alter my own garments since! I randomly looked at machines today and stumbled across your video. I feel comfortable purchasing one today after I find the one I love and will follow you learn:) My great grandmother would be impressed by your skills! Thank you!

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@ceciliaalongi5062]

This truly helped me so much! Definitely one of the more helpful tutorials on KZbin, thank you!

[@dremb9260]

This is such a great video, so clear and well laid out. I can see all the hard work that must have been put in! I've been sewing for a while, but still found this video super helpful. Many thanks :) x

[@catluvstar]

THANK YOU SO MUCH! I’ve started getting into sewing and this already helped alot

[@slippery-out-there]

Fantastic explanation and demos….enough info on one video for a lot of sewing 🎉

[@pinkyplayz2907]

Thank you! My dream is to be a fashion designer when I grow up, Ik I’m young but I will do my best to learn for my own future and your bud really helped with notes :) thxxx❤❤❤

[@asiawilk]

I just bought a sewing machine, have wanted to for years and years but was always afraid of starting because I know nothing at all haha. When I opened my machine I was like ahh..what have I done, I can't learn this! I don't even know where to start!! But this is so helpful!! I actually feel like it's something I CAN learn after all! :)

[@aliciavali7961]

which sewing machine did you buy? i’m looking for one but i’m not sure which one to get!!

[@asiawilk]

@@aliciavali7961 I got a Brother XM2701. I really like it!

[@tazmcd123]

I've just watched this. You are incredible and a great teacher and have made me realise I want to try my hand at sewing, thank you! :)

[@annd8396]

Absolutely!👏

[@ZanilSingsToo]

best beginner video ever. 10/10. seriously.

[@berry_x0x0]

Thank you for this! My grandma has been sewing for years as a job, and I wanna do it too.

[@brynna8792]

Thanks for this!! I've been wanting to get into sewing but have had no idea where to start. This makes everything feel a bit less overwhelming

[@Alice-wn2jx]

omg, thank you so much for this video! It helped a lot and you explain pretty well!

[@fatimaakram7457]

This was the best video ever. So simple and educational!

[@sometimesagoldfish1245]

i dont usually comment on videos but this helped me so much with all the things I've struggled with, thankyou :)

[@OOoKarmaoOO]

Yes clear explanations and timestamps 💡

[@lea8096]

Thank you so much for this, boy I was struuuggling with setting up my Singer, you made my day!

[@Abi-sh4pt]

I've just bought a sewing machine and I've been really struggling. this is an amazing video!!

[@user-pg6bi4il7o]

I just started and had a lil problem but this video was a total life saver 😮‍💨😍

[@sasyadev9976]

Thank you so much for this video. you are the best teacher I can assure that. I am just starting and looking for a sewing machine. Before I buy one I am looking for and learning this art. I hope I can learn from you. Thank you for your tutorial. it helps me a lot.

[@knit-sewdelight8664]

Your videos have been very helpful, thank you for sharing and encouraging others to try. Practicing and having fun in the process helps!

[@daphneiguess3191]

This is honestly the best beginner guide video. I am amazed at how much you have helped me. Thank you so much!

[@joanne6821]

This video is just amazing. You were able to explain everything sooooo well and simple. Lil backstory; i just recently got into the idea of sewing my own clothing, bc everything comes just too small or too short for my size and a few days ago, i got a used (but in very good condition) Singer HD 118 C sewing machine and even tho im so excited to do sew and learn, i was too anxious to really start. But with this video i am so much more motivated again, u took away the fear of not understanding. I will definitely watch your other videos as well. You come off as so kind and nice. Big thank you!

[@nancyjavkhlan613]

AHHHH THIS IS SO MUCH MORE HELPFUL THAN OTHER PEOPLE

[@jerilyncruz5069]

Thrifting has been hard for me because most thrift stalls or places here only carry sizes for slimmer people and I feel like fast-fashion stores are too overpriced with really bad fabric and silhouette for my body type. Hoping to create my own clothes one day so I both feel confident that it fits properly and accentuates the places I want to as well as saving money of course!

[@salamalmahi541]

Thank you! This was sooo helpful for someone interested in starting sewing ❤️🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@jllb3]

I don't usually comment on KZbin videos but this video has reeaallly freshened my rusty sewing skills. Thank you!

[@TheEssentialsClub]

You are so so welcome! Love hearing this :)

[@JemimaCassidy]

incase youre interested in making your own tote bag :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/r53HnoelZ9RlhK8

[@elizdonovan9219]

Excellent video. Subscribed. No time wasted. Very clear instructions and explanations. Thank you. ☘️🌝🌲

[@ednatogbah1903]

I just got a new sewing machine learning how to sew ,so watching the video give me more ideas, love it

[@kevinsworld444]

Thanks!

[@annd8396]

Wonderful delivery and presentation; am coming back to sewing after some time and your delight in sharing your knowledge and skills simply inspires..! 👏thank you ☺️

[@santoscarvalholaura4827]

This VIDEO HELPS ME SO MUCH, i’m a fashion student and your explications are perfect, thank you very much’ Have a nice day 🧚🏼

[@JMarley24]

Lovely tutorial..I recently developed an urge to sawing and this shown me most that I need to

[@shannonciara]

Thank you so much for this video. This is probably the most helpful video I've found as someone who is brand new to this!

[@marie-lynn5767]

👋🙂💕🇦🇺 Hi and thanks from Queensland Australia

[@robinversteck4254]

thx for this frequently informational tutorial. every second is packed with good hints! awesome work

[@robinversteck4254]

but one special trick I learned before: if u use pins to fix your soam, use them the other way, left to right, instead of up to down. so u can just sew over them without ruining your stich :D

[@juls9159]

I'm so glad I found this channel!! You deserve a million subs! ❤️

[@chocoboasylum]

The ruffling part is so handy!

[@tanyan675]

This video is brilliant! You explained everything in very simple concepts that are very easy to understand.

[@katrinajones8440]

This video was absolutely helpful in so Many areas And in A Timely Manner

[@fullonloser]

Love this video! Everything is very clearly explained, thanks so much!! I have not sewed since i was a kid and i want to start getting back into it and this video had everything i was looking for

[@margielyncalimag986]

wow, your really good in explaining. thank you.

[@Simplyiss]

Im starting a sewing club next monday, and this really helped!!

[@amberjeter865]

This video really helped me with learn the basics to sewing again because I forgot how to sew think you sm for this video it truly helps!!!

[@ZameeniyaSMBY1shafraz]

Best teacher .you are amazing. Thank you

[@lamarelleci]

Thank you for this tutorial, this is exactly what I needed, I am much less intimidated about starting now

[@sourpatchpink8863]

I learned so much in such a short video!! Thanks girl :)

[@LemCatOfficial]

9:40 oo that was a very clean hemline 😭🤍

[@ahtziry7579]

This is amazing, thank you!

[@elitehaxxor8025]

I've always wanted to take up sewing and learn how to re-size clothing or fix minor damage, so I asked my fiancee for a sewing machine for Christmas and I cannot wait to start going to Michael's or JoAnne Fabrics to shop together.