The Secret Pieces Of Wisdom That Improve Your Sewing!

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It is fun to look back on my sewing journey and share the insights that I have that I think will drive your sewing forward. In this video I am sharing the wisdom I wish I had starting out.
My vlogging channel ‪@Lifebyclairevlogs‬
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Thank you for watching. I appreciate each one of you!

[@Penguinandpear]

Hi Friends, thanks for watching, check out the link to Better Not Younger here: better-notyounger.com/Claire. Don't forget to use the code "Claire10" to get your discount! Thanks to Better Not Younger for sponsoring a portion of this video! xx

[@frannygrace2191]

I don't know what it is--haircut, new hair products, attitude, or all of the above--but you look younger and happier in this video. I love your videos and am so happy to see that you seem to be taking your life's setbacks in stride!

[@Nicki20125]

I absolutely love your videos as I am new to sewing and watching you been so up front,truthful, and to the point is helping me so much and i just want to thank you ❤

[@theresaanndiaz3179]

I was thinking the same thing. Especially the less stressed looking.

[@looloo4029]

You are looking so much happier and healthier than a few weeks ago. I love your new hairstyle (and I wrote this comment before you started speaking about your new haircare products- I have inserted this bit into my comment after you started talking about your hair issues) you’re looking fab! ❤❤❤ PS I laughed with you when you did the reenactment xx

[@Penguinandpear]

Haha 🤣 thank you, I’m just trying to show up in a positive way. I have up and down days. Check out my vlog channel to see how I’m doing day to day. Appreciate your comments ❤️

[@MathPiHanan]

Thanks for the tip on keeping it to yourself. I didn’t 😅 However, I’ve been so good about having clear boundaries. When people ask for sewing or alterations (they sometimes even offer money for such service requests), I just tell them “sorry, sewing isn’t my job, it’s my hobby which I don’t want to monetize, because while you can afford the money, I can’t afford the time 🤷🏻‍♀️”

[@Penguinandpear]

Great response!

[@karinjensen4591]

I am so so happy to see you back❤I love your videos. Your humour, honesty and allowing us to embrace our mistakes and turning them around to be learning experiences. Thank you❤️🙏🏻

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you!

[@RaquellePhillips]

Claire I love watching your channels. You give great advice and are never judgemental about others and also you make me roar laughing at least once every video! You look fantastic (I hear that in your voice btw!!) I'm rooting for you with all your life/health challenges and wish I lived nearer to you so I could take you out for a coffee irl! Keep 'em coming beaut! I'll be watching all you can put out as you can manage. I rewatch the older one pretty much daily. I find you very inspiring!

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you for your words of support!

[@mama24fb27]

Ahhh, yes, fun! As much as I enjoy the garments I make after the process is finished, I tend to stress myself out so much that I do not enjoy the process at all. Thanks for the reminder to lighten up 😊

[@Penguinandpear]

Thats true for many of us I think.

[@rtblade4]

You look so pretty today! I hate when people don’t appreciate the skill involved with sewing

[@debtaylor2387]

I have just bought a book to help me learn how to draft a dress, it looks brilliant. I am going to give that a go, I have to do so many adjustments on bought patterns it's a nightmare.

[@Penguinandpear]

Good luck! It’s a great idea to self draft!

[@FlamorineFashions-yy7ji]

I don't know what is wrong with me, but I've been sewing for 35 years now and I have NEVER had any of these experiences/regrets that you describe. The one regret I do have, is that I only discovered how much I loved sewing and how brilliant I was at it, when I was already in my late twenties. Due to various circumstances, I was unable to go to a fashion school at the time or since. If I realised at 18 how much of my late grandma's talent I had, I would have gone to fashion school after high school, instead of going in the direction that I did. However, I retire at the end of the year and I plan to get myself that bit of formal training that will boost my self confidence to really take bigger chances with my designs, which I think are currently just a little on the dull and conservative side. I already have a list of people who want me to manufacture them some garments. Fortunately in my country, people place a lot of value on handmade, bespoke garments and these are usually cheaper and better quality than store bought.

[@Penguinandpear]

Nothing wrong with you - if you didn’t have these regrets you are fortunate! It sounds like you had a good basic training from your grandma which will help a lot. Good on you for recognising your strengths.

[@ld4467]

I really enjoy you! One thing however. I love my fabric stash! I love being able to get inspired on a moment's notice and being able to retrieve my stash items. I don't live close to a city for reasonably priced items. My stash consists of many "remnants." Keep up your fantastic work.

[@kathygann7632]

My first thought, even before you started talking was “Wow, her hair looks great,”

[@Penguinandpear]

Ah thank you!

[@annelintala7046]

Best Penguin and Pear I have read your KZbin channel for months and I just want to say THANK YOU. I have learned so much! I have started to saw again. In my youth, back in the 1970-80, I saw a lot. Then nothing… When starting again, I wanted to buy so many new items, like a new sewing machine. You learned me a lot, like a brand new machine will not make me better in sewing. So I kept my old one and we are friends:). I have a suggestion to you - a new chat on KZbin. It’s about needles to the sewing machine, how to make them sharp again instead of bying new ones again and again? I’m pretty sure that in the old times, people used the same neeadles as long it was possible and they sharpened them themselves. Today, many sites suggest that you have to trow away the needles after 8 hours of use! I don’t believe it. I’m quite sure that you can prolong the life of a needle quit easy. But how? Using sandpaper? Sewing in folio? If you don’t know, maybe you could ask help from your community? Thank you for reading this. I apologize for my English. All the best to you, Anne Lintala, Stockholm, 63 years old.

[@Penguinandpear]

Thanks Anne, no promises but I’ll certainly consider your request. You make some great points.

[@annelintala7046]

@@Penguinandpear Thank you!

[@SuzyTurner]

Such wonderful advice! I'm a real beginner and your videos are pure gold. I love your sense of humour and honesty too! I did have a giggle at your re-enactment of when things go horribly wrong lol!!! x

[@Penguinandpear]

Haha welcome! I’m glad my videos help!

[@SuzyTurner]

I love them so much that I've mentioned you in my latest video 🤩@@Penguinandpear

[@barbolson8768]

Hi Claire, you look so well refreshed these days. Your tips are always so helpful. Cheers from your Canadian friend.

[@KlingonPrincess]

I'm currently adjusting a bed sheet toile for a dress pattern. I've decided to get a similar rayon to my final make and try an interim wearable before I cut into the fabric I adore. I've also decided to make a second or third of a pattern that I've spent the time to adjust perfectly and is flattering. I can use the lessons to improve as I go along. So lovely to see you today. 🍄🌻

[@BSWVI]

Okay you have to stop being so prescient about my life!! Just last night when I was getting ready for bed I said I'm really tired of having old lady hair and nothing I can find that will be helpful for it because I have old hair. And here you are. I really hope that this is available in Canada!!!

[@Penguinandpear]

It’s worked wonders on mine! I hope it helps you.

[@sharonrimsza7960]

Wow! What is your secret? You look so fabulous! You look healthier from the inside out. So happy for your internal journey. 👍😊❤

[@Penguinandpear]

I think it’s partly because Covid is finally out of my system, I stopped eating junk, drinking more water, taking supplements and good foundation plus sleep!

[@ninadukette3340]

When I learned to sew, we only had three small drawers on the side of the machine for notions. My sisters, myself and my mother sewed everything. You are right , Claire. We don't need alot to sew.

[@Penguinandpear]

I remember my late grandmother when she sewed she put the machine on a little side table that was only just big enough and had a few supplies next to her.

[@lindak9239]

GREAT advice, especially regarding buying too much fabric.

[@chrisnorton877]

It never occurred to me that I could draft my own patterns. Thank you so much for your insight and encouragement!

[@sandimcp]

OMG. I needed this so very much. Thank you, Claire. Thank you so much. This has encouraged me more than you know.

[@sewitfits7393]

Your sewing wisdom is bang on. After years of sewing I have run through every one of your wisdom pieces. Specially the oh, can you sew this for me by tomorrow...for free. lol!!!

[@beachblu6953]

I’ve recently subscribed and watched your past vlogs like how you make vlogs on different topics also your hair looks great 🎉

[@TheEvie202]

My mother taught me how to sew as a child and was very frugal. We bought the pattern, fabric, and any necessary notions. We never had money for an unnecessary fabric “ stash”. I guess old habits die hard.The back of the pattern gives you suggestions on fabric and this is very helpful and saves you money and headaches. Thanks and greetings from New York City! 👍🏼🇵🇷🗽😃❤️

[@heidiwatts1310]

Like your hair that length Claire. Once again, very wise words but I’ve already fallen foul of the fabric stash this weekend at the Harrogate knitting and stitching Show. Purchased another four pieces! I’m blaming the lady McElroy stand! 😂

[@suze7268]

Thanks so much, Claire . You always come up with such truly helpful advice! Hope you're doing as well as you're looking. You look great & it's good to see :) Much love xXx

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you ❤️

[@zoidmo3388]

Thank you for doing these vids.You are so inspirational & motivating. Does a world of good. I relate to the frustrations of sewing. BTW..you look great. Cheers!

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

Stay awesome, girl! 😉 I learned a lot of basic things from books. Old or used books are actually best, they’re straightforward instead of out to sell stuff. And cheap! Your local library is good too. I like old Singer books. Lots of pictures.

[@theresaanndiaz3179]

I don't usually make two comments on a video but this one hit home. People wanting me to sew for them because " you love doing it" but not even wanting to pay for the fabric? Having a set response helps with this, mine is " I charge a nonrefundable minimum 5 hours at $20.00 per hour plus materials." Speaking of paying for fabric, buying fabric instead of sewing what I have. ( I working through my stash these days). I have to say learning to pattern draft was the smartest thing I ever did for my sewing, having a pattern block that fits my sloping shoulders, narrow back, and other issues that make my body unique is a great time saver! Plus pattern drafting feels like magic.

[@annetteavery3349]

Yes, bed sheets are excellent for a toille or in my case if the beautiful brand new, pure cotton and still in the packet, lilac bed sheet my Mum didn’t want, worked out lovely , I have a new shirt BEFORE I spoil the lovely floral expensive material. They are cheap too and I do use pillowcases for plain bias binding as I can get nearly 10 metres of narrow bias from pillowcases for pennies per metre. I bought bias before but is is not the width stated, it was almost 2mm thinner. Love your hints and tips and I have sewn near enough all my life. And yes I have bought fabric in the morning to wear to a do that night (I was 19 ) but yes the hours and skills you put in aren’t appreciated. ❤

[@victoriahannah1633]

I watched last night but was way too tired to post. You are looking great and your complexion was flawless. On drafting patterns it does have its perks and faults. I don’t have to do any FBA and crotch in pants fit me spot on . I do have to do round back,swayback & I always have to taper in pants legs. I was really getting frustrated with my personal patterns just not working out. They were close but something was just not quite right. I went back & remeasured bust, waist, high hip, low hip. I found out the ease was off. Ever since I did that my sewing has been so much better.

[@danielpearl923]

Back when people didn't sew as a fun hobby; but learned of necessity in order to have clothing to wear, people did succeed in becoming able to create garments. There was usually someone experienced who taught the knowledge needed. A beginner was assigned boring, repetitive tasks which became more challenging as they gained skill. Those skills included patience, high standards, not skipping steps and correcting mistakes. Time and labor were cheap while materials were precious. Cooking and cleaning were taught by the same methods. Bespoke tailoring uses these same teaching methods today! Have confidence. You CAN learn this.

[@catherineb6565]

I just loved your compilation of wisdom Claire! Using what's in my stash is 2024 goal. 😃

[@nephtys369]

When they hear the cost they tend to back off. Although I had one person willing to get the $75/yard fabric and pay my hourly rate. Only one in all this time. The worst is the husband, he’s the king of needing something by the end of the week, and telling me on Thursday.

[@legaleagle4947]

lol brilliant! And so true about feeling bogged down when we accumulate so much stuff #Hoarding! ❤

[@queenwere1]

Finally we're getting real in the sewing industry. This is just the realest story of many sewing people 😅 And yes your hair looks great ❤luvvitt

[@gingergreen4647]

Creating my own pattern will be too difficult so I would rather buy them. I noticed that I don't have to even adjust them too much :)

[@jojorichmond8005]

Thank you again for the reminders.... most of us have done as you have....

[@frannygrace2191]

Another thing that goes along with having fun while you're sewing is when it isn't going right and you're not having fun with it--put it away and do something else. Do either another sewing project that is an easier one or one you've done before or do something totally not sewing. Watching Claire's videos is what I do when my sewing is not going well, it always picks me up and makes me want to sew again.

[@lolawall3561]

I really enjoy the advice to not tell others that you sew clothes. Your experience has been mine exactly! So let others learn themselves and sew gifts for those that realize the time, love and energy are a labor of love to be appreciated. Happy sewing.

[@qormi1000]

A great helpful video as usual. Thank you Claire. xxxx

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

One toile - baste it, then you can pull a seam and move it. More than one wastes those thrift bedsheets, they aren’t an infinite supply.

[@blufaerie]

I post my makes on Instagram and ppl gush and gush and ask me to make them things… Nope!!!

[@carolhiller1112]

lol loved the bit about not telling people you sew…..so very true though. ❤❤❤

[@teslaandhumanity7383]

You would be a fabulous teacher in schools the kids would adore you .

[@toericabaker]

23:30 i think u forgot to put the title card up for the funny video ur referencing

[@HumanFellaPerson]

Great advise, as always! Thank you!

[@heathernesbitt9026]

Love this, thank you. Your tips are so relatable and really helpful ❤

[@jenniferlindsay6227]

Brilliant! Thank you, Claire

[@karolmolpus9536]

You are looking Wonderful ❤

[@TheHestya]

Epiphany was the word.

[@marikomcconnell6322]

😂 i need a ball gown in 6 hours!!!

[@toericabaker]

can i live in your cupboard

[@Lorraine-yy8ey]

Let's start by stating the obvious . . . you look marvelous, darling! Hair (so stinkin' cute) and make-up are flawless. Sexy hair care product packaging, indeed. You sound and look strong and confident. You are on your game, Claire! Your recommendations for successful sewing hit the mark dead center, and your reenactments are comedic gold. A lifetime of making sewing mistakes has taught me more than a solid hit on the first go ever has. Fun + Frustration = Sewing. No one knows that I sew. Shhh . . . don't tell anyone . . . it's a secret. Fabric stash??? No, no, no! The true definition of party time is every time you post a video. Sending love from across the pond.

[@Penguinandpear]

Look at the love in this comment ❤️ thank you Lorraine! I do wish you were around the corner! ❤️❤️

[@daxxydog5777]

Patterns are sometims just wrong. I got very frustrated with a pattern this weekend. I kept looking at the instructions on the collar and thinking, this has to be wrong. I attempted to do it the way they said and it is just awful. I did manage to make it work but I had to figure that out for myself. It was a very strange set of instructions. I've started learning to draft patterns and I think this might be the last big four pattern I'll ever try. I'm a size 12 and I have to adjust every pattern a ridiculous amount. Why can't you learn to draft? It's really not that hard.

[@Penguinandpear]

Yeah I’ve had that experience many times. I’ve struggled to learn drafting before due to lack of plus size resources. Most resources focus on a slim figure and it’s different for us. I tried to draft a bodice once and the cf was miles longer than cb because instructions didn’t take into account a bigger bust. But I will eventually try again.

[@goldieradziewicz7863]

Way to go, Clair.

[@Chericherry4]

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

[@judyhansen6237]

You look great! 🤩I absolutely agree with you about learning pattern drafting! I could have saved so much money by not buying a similar pattern just because the neckline is different 🥴! And yes I’ve become a fabric hoarder 😥now I promised myself to use up most of my stash before I buy anything new! 😥thank you for the tips Clair! 😘

[@evelynwatt8029]

Thankyou Claire for this vlog I’m at that stage with trousers and ready to call it a day until watching you and thinking how far I have come in 6 mths and think on what I did do right and how to fix what I didn’t You are looking lovely and so much better, it’s all going to work out ❤️😘🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@angelbear_og]

I don't know, I think it would be quite satisfying to quote a crazy price for a handmade item, and when the person balks and says, "Hmph! I could buy one for X amount!" just smile sweetly and say, "Yes." :)

[@Penguinandpear]

I’ve done that lol 🤣

[@louisestevens5267]

Thank you. I also follow Lifting Pins And Needles she has wonderful videos on fitting and adjusting patterns

[@Penguinandpear]

Yes Karina is very knowledgeable and experienced.

[@tenaoconnor7510]

A while ago I bought this book, 5th edition Pattern making for fashion design by Helen Joseph Armstrong. It shows how to make a pattern block from your own measurements and how to use that to make anything you want. My daughter and I are going to help each other take the required measurements and try it out. It helps you make tops, dresses and pants and a few more items, for men women teens and children. It’s a heavy book, over 900 pages. It should be interesting to see if we can do it. I want to draft a pants pattern that fits my 54in waist without the giant baggy legs.

[@Penguinandpear]

Yes I wanted that book a few years ago but never bought it because it doesn’t cover plus size drafting which has some different rules.

[@rosemarykriegel3226]

You are looking fantastic! Good tohear your words of wisdom. When i was learning to sew the patterns always had the zipper sewn in last. My teacher who was fresh out of college taught us to sew the zipper in first. Its really much easier that way.

[@Penguinandpear]

The order instructors have us sew in has always seemed odd to me.

[@aminahawa7237]

Where are you based. Are you in UK? The hair products are in USD ??

[@Penguinandpear]

Im in the uk. The hair company is in the us.

[@susanbranchepoteet3175]

Love your top!

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you

[@bethjerome6280]

Cute haircut!