Sewing requires certain tools to get started. There’s the obvious stuff like thread and needles, but what type and size? Here’s my shopping list of equipment to buy if you’re brand new to sewing, with simple explanations on why you need them, when to use them, and what type, size, and brands to get. Essential … Read more
Contents list: Thread Supplies Preparation Rectangle buttonhole Round end buttonhole Keyhole buttonhole Troubleshooting Hand sewn vs machine sewn buttonholes What thread do you use for hand sewing buttonholes? Traditionally, silk buttonhole twist thread (for example [1], [2], or [3]) is used for hand working buttonholes. It’s a thicker silk thread that’s very strong, and it … Read more
You can use a standard presser foot to sew most types of hems. If you want a little help with getting a neat finish on single / double turned hems or faced hems, use an edge stitching foot. If you’re sewing a blind hem by machine, you’ll want to use a blind hem foot. If … Read more
If you’ve never used a sewing machine before, understanding all the parts and what they do can be overwhelming. I’ve explained all the important features on your sewing machine with pictures, when to use them, and my top tips for complete beginners. Here are the sewing machine parts we’ll cover: Stitch selector Tension selector Stitch … Read more
I’ve made a number of trousers in the past using different types of denim. It’s a versatile fabric that can be turned into shirts, dresses, skirts, jeans, jackets, overalls, aprons, and various accessories like bags and hats. It’s also a great option for home textiles like upholstery projects, curtains, and pillows. In this article, I’ll … Read more
If you’re new to making bags and zipper pouches, you’ll need to learn how to make 3D shapes by “boxing” the corners. Here are 2 ways to sew neat boxed corners, 3 ways to finish the raw edges if your bag is unlined, and how to calculate the corner sizes. This guide includes step-by-step video … Read more
Sewing corners is a skill you’ll use all the time. I’ve described how to sew the most common types of corners (outward right angles, inward corners, sharp corners, and collars). Plus 9 tips for getting sharp points. Hint: my favorite method for getting sharp corners is tip no. 5 (pull the corner out using a … Read more
Have you seen an instruction to “gather fabric” recently but have no idea how to do it? Here are step-by-step tutorials with pictures for different methods of gathering. Plus guidance on how to choose the right method for your project. For most projects, the machine basting and u-turn basting methods with 2 rows of stitching … Read more
The best needles for hand sewing: “Sharps” are sharp, medium-length needles that are suitable for most hand sewing tasks. If you can only get one type of needle I recommend getting a variety pack of Sharps. If you want to build a small collection of needles, get some Ballpoint needles for working with knits, some … Read more
Linen is one of my favorite fibers to work with, and I’ve made countless items from different types of linen. I have a small army of linen shirts, many pairs of linen trousers, a few linen tops, and even a few linen jackets. I also recently sewed some heavy linen curtains for our kitchen, and … Read more