a good sewing foundation

As a (practically) self-taught sewer, I learned by trial and error—mostly error.  I ruined a lot of projects, ripped a lot of seams, and sewed a lot of garments that either didn’t look good or didn’t fit.  Through all this, I learned that, without a good sewing foundation, what you end up with is a lot of time-consuming error creations.

Although making errors while sewing is a good way to help you avoid doing it again next time, hopefully, I can help you avoid the kind of frustration that will keep you from continuing your sewing.

What kind of learner are you?

If you are unfamiliar with the various types of learning styles, a quick internet search will gather a lot of information on the subject.  The basic styles are:

Auditory Learners learn best by hearing.  For instance, if someone explains a concept to you, you will be able to process the information in a way that makes the doing easier.  In sewing, listening to instructional videos may be a great option for you.  Also, attending sewing seminars, demonstrations, or taking classes may be a good way to learn some skills.  Most local public libraries have an assortment of these available for free. 

Visual Learners learn best by seeing.  For instance, watching an instructional video, or someone showing you how to do something helps you to solidify a concept, making it possible for you to do it yourself.  As with auditory learners, free demonstrations and classes may be beneficial.  Sitting side by side with someone who is working on a project would be a great option.  Quilt guilds are a great resource for experienced sewers.  These guilds offer retreats, classes and demonstrations at their meetings, as well as mentorships with people who enjoy helping others learn.

Kinesthetic Learners learn best by touching/feeling/doing.  For instance, manipulating fabric, using the tools, and basically using your hands to figure out a concept on your own, or with the help of others, is the best kind of learning for you.

Most people are combination learners.  I don’t particularly like it when someone explains something to me.  I’d prefer to look at a picture or diagram, and then go after the project myself, which makes for a visual/kinesthetic learner.  I also love to watch Sewing With Nancy and other teaching videos like I would a movie.  Then I go back, later, and try out the concept when I’m sitting at my sewing machine.

For now, try figuring out what kind of learner you are. Most people already know.  If you don’t, it is best to find out as this will give you a good place to start in your sewing  ventures.  Knowledge is power—it’s true.

Setting up Your Sewing Space

Setting Up Your Sewing Space

A sewing space is a very basic, but very necessary part of sewing.  Your perfect space does not necessarily need to be, WELL, perfect.  Perfect for you depends on YOU.  Here is a guideline to help you set up your space so that once you begin sewing, you will be able to concentrate on your projects and having fun, rather than YOU trying to make your space work.  You need to make your space work for you.  A bit of pre-planning your space will save you a lot of frustration and make you a much happier sewer!

Sewing Corner or Room

If you have a spare bedroom, nook, or office, you have won the jackpot.  Sewing can create a huge mess, and sometimes when you are in the middle of a project, you may just want to leave things like they are until next time.  However, most of us do not have that luxury of an extra room.  The following will help you determine where and how to set up your area.

Of course, if you do have this luxury, you have a whole room—so set up.

Table, Desk, or Sewing Cabinet

You need a solid, stable, desk top, table, or cabinet to park your sewing machine on—that is--if it is a portable sewing machine.  The legs need to be solid and stable to bear the weight and vibrations of the machine while sewing.  A desk with drawers is ideal to hold supplies, notions patterns and fabrics.  If you don’t have room for a sewing area/room, a dining room table is sufficient.  Remember to always unplug your machine if you walk away from your sewing area (if you have young children and/or pets).  A sewing needle can sew through little curious fingers, and a runaway  pedal from a “bad dog” can break a needle and create a problem with your sewing machine timing.

Sewing machines that are housed in a cabinet act as stand-alones and are stable enough, unless you place a heavy item on top of the fold out arm (yes, I do know about this from experience).  Keep the fold out arm free from weight. 

Lighting

Determine whether you prefer natural lighting (near a nice, big window), or whether you prefer artificial lighting (near plenty of electrical outlets).  Personally, I do a combination.  This way, I can sew on a rainy day, or at night.

Electrical Outlets

Minimally, you will need an outlet for your lighting, your iron, and your sewing machine.  This is a lot of wattage, so be safe!  A surge protector is a good choice—it gives you more plug space, and protects your valuable investments.

Chair

A chair with wheels is great and can be purchased at garage sales.  Once you learn to sew, you can create cute chair accessories or covers to match your sewing room attire.  I just have a dining room chair, which works great.  Your chair needs to be comfortable and sturdy.  Your feet should rest flat on the floor. 

Cutting Area

You will want your cutting area in close proximity to your sewing area.  I don’t have a lot of room, so I have a mobile cutting area.  I went to Home Depot, chose a nice, thick board, and had one of the guys there cut it to the size of my cutting mat.  When I need to cut out projects, I place the board on my bed, the cutting mat on top, and presto—I have a cutting station.  I just store it behind my dresser, out of the way.  Of course, you can use your dining room table without a board (just a cutting mat) for this purpose.

Ironing Area

Ironing board v. ironing area—you choose.  Most quilters create a quilted mat for pressing small projects while sewing—this is a great way to avoid getting up and down while sewing.  Some larger projects require an ironing board.  I suggest you start with an ironing board with a clean, well-padded cover.  After you start sewing more, you can make your own padded side table or padded desk top ironing surface.  (This might make for a great started project!)

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Any questions, please email me.  I would love to see pictures of your sewing area or room!

Happy sewing!