I’ve been getting stitchy over the last few days. I got out my sewing machine manual and I learned what all the bits and bobs on the machine do. I’ve wound some bobbins and I’ve practised threading up my machine. Tilly suggested stitching straight lines to start with, so I got some plain cotton fabric that my mum gave me, drew on parallel lines and stitched away for a while. My lines are little wibbly, but not too bad for a beginner?
But sewing straight lines is not very exciting and sometimes it’s best to get a friend to show you what to do. So I went to a friend’s house last night for a basic sewing lesson. I knew she was a great teacher, as she used to be my A-level English teacher! We became friends after I left school. She’s the best read person I know, as well as being kind, generous and an awesome crafter.
First of all, she showed me how to place your hands on the fabric properly to guide it into the machine. Apparently she could tell from the position of my hands that I am scared of sewing machines! We practised straight stitching, then she showed me how to do a basic seam, zigzag along the edge of a seam to neaten it and top stitch. I was amazed at how much I picked up in a short time and how confident I felt afterwards.
I need to attempt some projects now. I thought of doing an envelope cushion cover or perhaps some bunting to get me started. Can anyone recommend a simple project for a beginner? Thanks.
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January 17, 2012 at 10:03 pm
whatktmadenext
Hiya! Just found your blog through some random blog hopping and had to stop and say hi! You have lovely blog and your lines don’t look that wibbly to me!
I think the first thing I made when I got my machine was a pin cushion. Something like this http://veryberryhandmade.co.uk/2011/05/30/quick-pieced-pincushion-tutorial/ looks simple (and you could replace the pieced top with a square of fabric if you wanted to simplify further). You probably wouldn’t need the interfacing either.
And if you think you can see flaws in anything you make, just remember that no-one else will see them. My friends and I always see problems in our own stuff but we always think what the others make is awesome.
January 17, 2012 at 11:40 pm
Ford
I was thinking of some cushions for the back seat of little Keira …. Are you up for that?
January 18, 2012 at 12:13 am
Samantha
A cushion cover would be very easy. Or maybe some simple patchwork? I’ve hauled out and dusted off my sewing machine recently and I’m looking forward to sewing some straight seams myself!
January 18, 2012 at 12:46 pm
noddingviolets
Those lines look perfect. Did I mention that I got a sewing machine for Christmas so I will give the lines a try too. I will be happy if they turn out like yours. Great that you have a friend to help you. I hope you are well.
January 18, 2012 at 3:35 pm
mooncalfmakes
Envelope cushion for sure. Quick, easy and gives you something to place prominently around the living room to make you proud of what you’ve achieved
Those seams look plenty straight enough to me.
January 19, 2012 at 1:23 pm
Jenny
everydayThat sewing looks pretty good to me! I’d say go with the cushion, it’s more of an everyday thing so every day you’ll have a little ‘I made this’ joyful moment.
January 23, 2012 at 4:13 pm
Stephanie
Sounds like a great friend! I might take up sewing some day. It’s quicker than knitting, but requires a bit more equipment and setup.