First time sewer!

Oliviasmom

Ive been a member for a few years, changed username-due to email change.

Just wondering if anyone has taught themselves to sew with a machine or if there would be anywhere in Belfast for classes. Im interested in learning this/ would also like advice on a machine to use?

Many thanks

FrankZap

I read this as sewer, as in sewage......was intruiged what this post was going to be about....

CL

FrankZap wrote: »

I read this as sewer, as in sewage......was intruiged what this post was going to be about....

Me too!

My friend went to a dressmaking class in Belfast Met one evening a week and since has made curtains, cushions and alters her own clothes.

Ballymackeonan

I'm self-taught on a sewing machine (did Latin at school instread of domestic science!), although I was coming from a background of hand-sewing, so could do hems, zips etc by hand.

A basic machine is fine for most things - I've noticed a lot in charity shops recently, but probably better to go for a new one unless you get the manual with it. Avoid old Simger machines with electric motors fitted - they tend to be far too fast for a novice. Modern ones are lighter and more portable in a lot of cases, and also have fancy stitches, on mine I've only used the zig-zag for stopping things ravelling!

Get some cheap material, old curtains or something, to practise on. Cotton is fine, not too thick at first You need to learn to drive the sewing machine like driving the car, it's similar in some ways because you use a foot pedal to adjust the speed. Use the manual to find out how to thread the machine, use the bobbins, then play around with stitch lengths and tensions.

I noticed that Down Arts Centre were having an introductory 1 day class this autumn, where you bring your sewing machine and learn how to use it, end up making a cushion cover. It's probably worth looking around for one in your area.

I'm practising what I preach - I'm well into making a skirt, using tweed from a car boot, and a vintage pattern from a charity shop. It's quite a complicated pattern from the 1970s, so I'm feeling very pleased with myself! It's the first time I've done anything that involved anything other than straight seams...