SO - YOU WANT TO SEW? Part 2 of 2

Last month we began a two-part series regarding the basics of sewing. What are the absolute “need to know” things to get the beginner started in this amazing hobby. Sewing is also a thriving business. Many people get into sewing to MAKE money. You can too! In a recent study by Mordor Intelligence, “Factors leading to the growth of the sewing market globally are high demand by end-use industries such as apparel and garments. The rising population is also driving the demand for sewing machines and the market is expected to grow significantly.”

You may not be interested in sewing for a living, but you may want to expand your skill set and dive into this amazing world. Regardless of your motives, here are some more basics you’ll need to know. If you missed part one, click here. 

1. Hand Sewing

Before most people have a sewing machine they learn to sew by hand. This can be extremely beneficial - as most patterns can’t be completely sewn by just the machine. You need to learn various hand sewing techniques, many of which are demonstrated and taught online. Some basic hand sewing skills include:

• Threading a needle

• Using a needle threader

• Knowing how to knot the end of the sewing thread

• How to sew a backstitch

• How to baste

• Sewing slip, blanket, and chain stitches

• Sewing on buttons

  
  

2. Shortcuts to Take

When it comes to sewing by hand, there are several things that help make life easier. One of these ideas include putting hairspray on the thread for easier threading through a needle. Also using a needle threader may seem like you’re cheating, but you’re just speeding up the process. Use a magnetic knife strip to keep tools organized and handy. Brace buttonholes with a simple pin. Pin perpendicular to the seam. The list goes on and on… 

3. Shortcuts NOT to Take

There’s nothing wrong with being efficient and using tips and techniques to speed up the process - BUT there are some things that you just can’t rush. One of these is learning your machine, which we mentioned in part 1. You also need to spend time on easy projects, making sure you understand what needs to be done, as well as the terms used in the instructions (sewing lingo). As with anything, practice makes perfect. Being patient and learning the “home keys” as we’ve discussed before is critical. 

4. Fabric Types

Here’s a biggee… Fabric Types! As you can imagine, Marshall Dry Goods does have every kind of fabric imaginable. But as a beginner, you must learn what fabrics work best with your chosen pattern. Make sure they are a fit. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to accomplish a simple task but using the wrong fabric type. Some basic signs that you have got it wrong include fabric not feeding right through the machine, the sewing machine seizes up/stops, or the fabric bunches up. Do your research. Call us. Just make sure you are matching apples to apples. 

5. Good Housekeeping

Most of us spend time once a year doing the spring cleaning around the house, giving much-needed attention to the cracks and crevices that are ignored. The same attention should also go to your sewing machine and to other tools you use day in, day out. It’s important to clean the bobbin area where dust bunnies love to live. Also consider repairing or replacing anything torn or broken. There is no sense in hoping your thimble has enough metal for one more project. Replace it. Give attention to the sensors in your sewing machine, using a pipe cleaner for the hard-to-reach places. 

We Can Help!

Regardless of what sewing stage you’re in, utilizing these simple sewing basics will help to guarantee more success. Understanding and not forgetting the basics is the key. If you have questions, or simply need to gear up for your next project, come see us at 310 West Main Street in Batesville, Arkansas, or give us a call and let our staff help guide you in making your next project a success!