It’s Sooo Easy!

So - you want to sew? Perhaps you’ve considered it in the past, but were overwhelmed with all of the ins and outs, dos and don’ts, and have no clue where to begin? Marshall Dry Goods serves some of the best customers in the sewing world, ranging from the high-end professional sewing artist, all the way to the absolute beginner.  Each would agree that to start learning the craft, you simply begin with the basics. If you can’t afford a machine, learn the stitches, begin acquiring fabric, do it now - do what you can with what you have and with what you can afford. 

This sounds “SEW EASY” but it really isn’t that complicated at all. This concept is true regardless of what passions you have inside of you. Follow your instincts and just begin - start somewhere, start now. 

In order to simplify matters, here are five things that will help you wade into the sewing waters:

1. THE BASIC TOOLKIT - Keep It Simple

We all know the mechanic that goes out and buys everything under the sun for his new garage. This overstep can also happen in the sewing world. FACT: you do not have to begin large. Begin small. Your sewing toolkit does NOT have to be fancy or expensive - you just need the basics. This could include fabric scissors, tape measure, seam ripper, iron, ironing board, pins, thread and thimble. For example, Amazon has a basic sewing kit for less than $17. Many of our customers have been able to acquire items handed down from their mother or grandmother. Regardless, the basic toolkit is simple and very inexpensive. 

2. BEG, BUY OR BORROW A SEWING MACHINE

Before you go much further, you really need to get familiar with a sewing machine. It may be that a friend has one you can use, or you can find a good deal at a thrift store. Just get your hands on one and familiarize yourself with the basics of using it. The sewing machine itself can be overwhelming, but really you just need a simple machine that can straight stitch and zigzag stitch. Buy or borrow what you can afford and start there.

3. CHOOSE A PROJECT

This first project must be two things. Simple to construct and something you can get excited about creating. This may be a pillow or a pot holder - but whatever it is, keep it simple and easy. There are many online tutorials that can guide you step by step. Marshall’s also has several patterns and ideas that you could utilize. 

4. BUY SOME FABRIC

You knew this was coming! You have to get the fabric somewhere - and Marshall Dry Goods is absolutely the best resource for you! You not only can shop in our store, but more and more people are buying from our online store! Remember to choose the material that will work best with your first project. Don’t make the mistake of just guessing which fabric will be most effective with your pattern. Ask us for help. Our staff gives advice day in and day out - and it’s free! Your first project can be successful if you ask questions and begin with the right combination of fabric and pattern.

5. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

The beauty of sewing is that no one is going to judge you for what’s right or wrong. It’s just you, the fabric, the pattern, the machine, in the quiet and comfort of your home or apartment! If you make a mistake, start again. Consider giving the project your own personal spin - letting your creative juices flow! Consistency is also important. Set aside a specific amount of time each day/every other day/as often as you can and practice, practice, practice. 

With the experts and the fabric choices available at Marshall Dry Goods, along with the myriad of online resources containing tips and tutorials, you are sure to be a success before you know it.  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 first or next project a success!