teaching yourself...

pavlovs_dog

im currently contemplating getting round to teaching myself how to sew, and possibly how to knit and do embroidery.

any ideas on how to start/go about it?

how difficult is it for a relative novice like me?!

elona

I would try getting a book from the library at first or else see if you have a friend or relative who could help to start you off.
Do not try to do too much at once - just try one thing! :)

Sugar_Junkie

I was taught these a kid so they're not that hard at all! It's easier if someone shows you but there are good books about too. I always found they were more a matter of practice, the more I did it the easier it was, though I don't do so much these days. I always found casting on a bit tricky though with knitting. I used to ask my nan to do it for me! I recommend this book for some excellent stylish knitting ideas. http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/1855857723/qid=1108407998/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl/026-4184110-7286850

Yoga_Girl

Definately check out your library, you really want a "how to" book rather than one full of patterns that assumes you can knit/sew. If you've got any cheap/discount bookshops in your area they're always worth a look in as they often have craft books.

Practice on scraps of material 1st or odd bits of wool (check out charity shops) for your first few attempts then it doesn't matter so much if you make a mistake.

Hope you get on ok!

squarecat

I have recently started to learn, I had an aunt show me the basics and her advice was to just get some wool and neeldes and practice, I now have 2 scarves and the basis of a hat! I think I have mastered the knit one purl one, and my next challenge is to tackle a pattern!

Go to charity shops and ask, they always have needles but are not allowed to display them (lethal weapons). Its great to get a range of pairs and see how that affects you knitting.

Allexie

Hi p_d

Do you have any Further Education Craft Classes being run in your area? I know they are not easy to find now that the emphasis is on vocational rather than recreational classes but they are a great way to learn this kind of stuff. Not just from the tutor - I'm sure you would find inspiration from the other 'students' too.

I was fortunate in havin a grandma who taught me the basics but a few years ago I did classes in general crafts, pottery and lacemaking - all of which were great fun and I made some good friends at the same time.

One other thought...do you know any 'little old ladies' you could adopt?

aycor

try the local branch of the embroiders guild

http://www.embroiderersguild.org.uk/branches/regions.html

they may be able to arrange classes for you or try thr W.I.

http://www.womens-institute.co.uk/

toozie_2

I learnt to cross stich a couple of years ago (I'm 43!). Bought a tiny kit to make a birthday card. The full instructions were inside, and since I've progressed to a cushion cover, which I'm very proud of.

Good Luck!