Learning to sew

[Ashlie A.]

A friend of our family gave me one of her old sewing machines a couple of years ago when she attempted to teach me to quilt. I never actually got into the quilting, but I think we still have the sewing machine. I need to find out for sure. I would really like to learn how to sew clothes (thanks to the skirt threads ), but I don't know how best to go about learning. Can I look up instructions or do I need to track down someone to teach me one-on-one?

Ashlie

[Colleen]

There are many good books on sewing--your library should have a few. I would advice using Simplicity patterns to begin with. Simplicity patterns can be found at most fabric stores, and have easy-to-follow instructions.

[Linnae]

It partly depends on what type of learning you do best. (whether you learn by reading, by doing it by yourself, or by having help doing it) Most patterns are pretty easy to figure out (for me anyway ) but as Miss Colleen said, Simplicity are probably the easiest to start with. Before you start sewing on a pattern, though, I would suggest that you practice on some scrap material (such as old shirts or what-have-you) Then, once you're comfortable with it, try doing a pillow, as they are about the simplest thing to sew. That way you can practice following the edge. It would probably be helpful to have someone there to give you advice whether you're doing it right or wrong. It's always nice to have a second opinion, ya know? I always ask mom's opinion, and she's like "what are you trying to make?" (I've become notorious for coming up with hairbrained ideas of stuff to make. Some turned out great, others... well, let's just say they were a waste of fabric and thread )