Help With Sewing Resources For Beginners

Kadeeae

I'm new to sewing, well - the last time I touched a machine is well over 30 years ago - and have just graduated up to hemming trousers/jeans May not sound much but I feel quite accomplished! lol

What I'm wanting to know is if anyone knows of any good websites that may have ideas for beginners? I really don't want to do anything clothing wise (only hemming) but I'm looking for some very simple projects to get me going. My hope is to get more proficient and then move on to quilting.

I'm still coming to grips with terminology and trying to figure out what types of fabric are good for what etc.....complete beginner! I'm not one for classes, and tend to do much better trudging along on my own.

Thanks, heading offline for today, but I'll have a look back tomorrow!

Rummer

I went to the library when I got my new machine and they had a lot of books for just general crafty activities and they have been fun to do. A free resource too!

JoolzS

https://www.craftster.org - then find the sewing forums. You will find a load of freely offered patterns, and more advice than you think you need.

Julie

Kadeeae

Thanks, I did have a quick look around the net, but so much seems to be from the US which I realize doesn't really matter when it comes to using the machine, but it would be nice to find more from the UK.

I've found some videos on YouTube which were helpful too, I've yet to find anything though that really delves into the basics, like types of material etc... When I've been in a fabric shop it's just overwhelming, and if they're busy I feel such a doofus (lol) for asking the simplest of questions.

I know fabrics by the way the look or feel, and when someone says "such and such" (type of fabric) I've no idea what they're on about!

Hope this all makes some sort of sense :rotfl:

ivyleaf

If you can get hold of a book on sewing they usually have advice about the different types of fabrics. Reader's Digest do a good one.It's confusing, isn't it - especially as some fabrics have different names in the US! I believe their "calico" is our "muslin" (though I may be confused there), so as the patterns are mostly American they sometimes suggest fabrics i've never heard of, which may well be available here, just under a different name

nuttywoman

Try and get hold of Sewing For Dummies from your local library, its a really good book , honest ?

Rummer

I have found the people in my local material shop full of good humour and fabulous advice. They helped me select the right types of materials, thread and gave me some very useful hints and tips. I in no way felt rushed or silly (although I was terrified before I went in) and I now feel confident about going back. The books I have taken out from the library have had a variety of different projects from the really easy to the more challenging. I have started using my machine by making draught excluders and a few decorative bits and pieces (lots of straight lines). I think all the experimenting and exploring is all part of the fun!

Kadeeae

Ivy- Confusing, yes! lol - thought it was just me maybe

Nutty- Does this explain types of fabrics etc in UK terms? May be worth looking into.

Rummer- Straight lines, my favourite! :rotfl: I have made a couple of bag/pocket things just practicing my straight lines from some fabric I picked up at a car boot......again, I've no idea what the fabric is though.....

parsniphead

Hi Kadeeae

This is quite a good site with lots free down loadable patterns for all levels of sewers.

burdastyle.com

Sorry the site wont let me post a proper link as a new user. I should have used my old username but I'm trying to stay incommunicado from a few friends who have figured me out.

Hope this helps.

Parsnip

Kadeeae

Hmmm......incommunicado......intriguing :cool:

Thanks for the link Parsnip, I appreciate it. I'll have a quick look and then hope to have more time to go through it thoroughly this weekend.