Sewing is hard.
I took sewing in high school and I admit to forgetting how hard it was. I passed the class with maybe a C because I just couldn't sew a straight line. Plus, don't get me started on curves! So when I decided to try sewing again....after too many years to mention...I went straight to Pinterest to get ideas. I pinned for hours! A found numerous tutorials, projects and patterns that claimed to be for a sewing beginner. After many trials and errors, with very little success, I give you my list of what I have learned so far.
1. Bias tape is sewing hell.
I spent hours trying to figure out how to get it on a simple blanket. All straight edges would make you think it would be easy. Nooooo...I think I stabbed myself with pins a few hundred times and had to deposit enough money in the curse jar that we could just buy a new blanket! I will definitely have to look up some easier ways to do this.
2. Quality scissors make for better cuts.
I caved and bought a good pair of scissors at the craft store and my cuts are definitely nicer and my fingers are thanking me. Dull craft scissors are not great for material. The new scissors I bought though, are glorious! Cuts like the material is butter!
3. Curves throw me a curve ball.
If you think sewing a straight line is difficult, then sewing on a curve is worse. My curves were so wonky that you would think I had one too many drinks before starting. Nope....the drinks came after I saw how horrible they turned out.
4. Knits are definitely NOT a beginner fabric!
I found this super easy looking pattern for a baby beanie! I wanted to make a few for a friend who had just had a baby recently. I found some cute knit material and thought I would give it a try. Well, little ole me didn't realize at first that there was a special needle for this type of fabric. I also learned that there is even a certain presser foot you should use. (yep, I bypassed those little typed instructions) and quickly had a mess of thread and chewed up knit material. Sadly, those beanies became cleaning rags.
5. Start with scrap fabric, not pricey material.
Remember that knit fabric I was telling you about? Lets just say that they are the most expensive cleaning rags I have ever bought! I have now learned the art of recycling in the sewing world. That old flannel pajama top can become am apron. Those old cotton sheets and pillowcases can now become curtains, bibs, or even a toddler dress. I even take the scraps from those projects for sewing practice lines, curves and tension settings!
Got any tips you think I need to know?? Leave it in the comments for me to try!
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