So, if I’m wanting to learn to sew in order to be able to make clothes in the future where would you guys recommend to start? I know obviously the Internet and specifically YouTube has a lot most likely, but just looking for opinions. Also it’ll probably be a while, but I wanted opinions on affordable (what ever that is in this instance), but good quality sewing machines for clothes and stuffed animals/pillows and such. Thanks!
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There are a lot of different things to take into account.
Patterns: you can find a lot of free patterns online, I’d be happy to DM your links if you want. If you’re motivated, you could learn to draft your own patterns. You can also learn this for free on youtube or on blogs. Maybe it’s just me, but I find pattern drafting a lot easier than following a pattern because when you inevitably have to do alterations, you understand how your pattern works and it’s so much easier to alter than to alter a commercial pattern. And once you have your block pattern fitted, you can make any garment to your exact measurements. If you’re a complete beginner, starting with a simple elastic-waist skirt is a good idea.
Fabric: It can be expensive, but you can find good deals or upcycle things from thrift stores (curtains, bed sheets, dresses, etc.). Make sure to learn about fabrics before diving into your project. The wrong fabric can ruin it (fabric too stiff or too flowy for what you want to make, too sheer, wrinkles too much, hard to maintain, hard to sew, etc.). For a first project, I would stick to woven fabrics.
Sewing machine: I don’t have good tips for that one, sorry. But you can start with a needle and thread, if you have zero budget but endless patience. It’s not easy at first, but you can get amazing results by hand (like invisible hems!). Check out Bernadette Banner’s youtube channel. Her videos sparked my interest for hand-sewing.
Other: you’re going to need a pressing iron. It will make your life easier and your projects will look 10 times better. Not just because they will be wrinkle-free, but because it will improve their structure.
Anyways, I love sewing, especially the technical aspect of it. If you want to brainstorm your first project, I’d be happy to give you as many tips as I can.
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