Thanks everyone! Laying here, with the ‘Rona. First time! I should’ve added a tape measure and marking tool to this list! Let us know what’s on your essential sewing supplies list? Xx
Sending love and warm hugs to you Claire! So very sorry you are ill. I guess it is spreading again. Hope you are on the mend now. You’re in my prayers sweetie! Love Lita xxx
If you put it out there that you want a used sewing machine you are likely to get a free one. A lot of people buy sewing machines and never use them. Brother is a great brand and so is Janome but older Singers are good. I like Organ brand needles as much Schmitz. Nothing compares to Guttermann thread. If you need to save money, then buy a large spool of white, beige (or grey), and navy (or black) and use them on everything, no one sees your seams. I got a box of small spools of various colors on sale which I use for top stitching but it's not necessary.
When I was first married over 50 years ago, I didn't have a sewing machine, and I made two dresses for myself completely by hand. It was a fun experience, but I'm thankful that my husband bought me a machine shortly after that. I had that thing for over 30 years, and it was a real workhorse. I don't have that machine anymore, though. I've had two since then. I have a serger, too, which I love. I agree with everything you advise in your video. Thank you again!
Excellent video, Claire. Patience is also a sewing essential . . . and it is free! No dollars, no pounds, no pesos, no euro, no yen, no franc, no rupee. Gotta love that. Sewing is expensive enough as it is. And what the heck are poppers??? Thanks for another helpful, informative, and funny video.
My recommendation is an all metal vintage machine like a Singer 401 or 500. In the USA you are looking at $100 or so, and bonus, if you decide to sell it in a few years if you decide you don’t want to keep it, you might be able to not only sell it for what you paid for it, but you might be able to make a little money on it. If you do decide to keep it, it will last forever.
Claire, You're looking better than a few weeks ago. I learned to sew over 55 years ago. I had a friend sit with me to get me through a few items before I ventured out on my own. I was making clothes for my daughter and I got through with the minimum of equipment. My husband bought me a Singer sewing machine. Singer is my favorite. I know a lot of people don't care for Singer, but everyone is different. I'm still sewing on a Singer. I bought myself a new one a couple of years ago when I retired. Sending Light and Love to you. ❤🙏❤
Great video. I’m not a beginner, I just like to listen to you talk. I’ve been listening to you and learning about not over buying. To save my money for fabric that I actually have plans for and then spend my money on quality fabric! That makes so much sense. You’ve saved me do much money. One thing I did do when I started sewing for my self, was to choose easy patterns that would work for nightgowns or pjs. No matter how the garment turned out I would/ could still wear it . I learned enough to make a wearable piece so nothing loss. My best to you and thanks for the sewing therapy!P.S. my local library has a sewing machine!!!
A decent ruler, even a short seam gauge, is something I always need for straight hems. I've also always needed SOME method for marking pattern pieces for darts or joining points or whatever. I've gone from tracing wheels/paper to tailor's tacks, to soap or chalk pencils, and to water or air soluble pens.
I need to add that if you're left handed, buy a pair of left handed scissors! I have to use right handed scissors inside down to make them cut so definitely need left handed scissors for dressmaking. Mine are Wilkinson Sword but I believe they are now marketed as Fiskars. Mine have lasted for nearly 40 years so well worth the outlay ❤
Hi Claire. I’m in West Valley City, Utah, USA. Great info for new sewers. I hope you life “upheaval” resolves soon so you can get back on track with your channel!
Even now, when I use Gutterman thread, I often use up my cheap, pre-wound bobbins that I bought years ago from Lidl … don’t seem to have had any problems so far
Suck a good video! I have a Husqvarna Viking sewing machine that I got for such a great deal on Facebook. Almost all of my sewing gadgets I have gotten from an estate sale. Sewing is such an expensive hobby!
Thank you for another great video !!! I never realized how many different scissors we needed !!! I am always losing mine so I need several pairs of them!!! Good advice about the thread also !!!
Remember to check your machine manual for thread type. I have an older machine that was made (older than me) and it only takes 100 percent cotton thread.
If I were just starting, I'd buy the Brother 6000 or 7000. It's still a deal at 180$ or 200$ and you get a great buttonhole function, a reverse stitch, and a needle up/down button. And it'll be brand new so you won't need to pay for a servicing. Mimi G said she used a Brother 6000 for 7 years before she was famous. 😂 my backup machine is a 6000. 👍
Great video! I am guilty of buying too many sewing supplies, just because I get excited about using them. For instance, I bought a few bias makers, but I only use purchased bias tape because they are cheap and convenient to use.
I like making bias tape out of striped fabrics and gingham. They make interesting details. You don't even need to buy a bias folder tool, you can make one out of cardboard.
Have a watch of my videos where I make clothes. I have a playlist on my channel. I talk a lot about my fitting issues. Also check out my recent video where I give my step by step process.
That 'plop' sound is awful and it is louder than you. Yuk! Just thought it best to give feed-back. Love your channel. I am delighted that you are still putting out videos. We don't need to always see you sewing. Good advice is priceless.
@@Penguinandpear I've just had the same virus! It's horrible & I hope you recover very soon. I'm thinking it must be as virulent as it was during the pandemic just now, I know so many people who've had it recently. Anyway,get well soon lovely. Big hugs xXx
The virus? Omg it’s evil. My first time. I had a fever and aches and pains and fluy feeling. Over the worst now but muscles still killing me and a bit fatigued from it.
yes, that pretty much sums up the horrible feeling I had, too. The first time I got it, it was right after getting the shot! I thought I was a goner, I never felt so bad in all my life. Take it easy! @@Penguinandpear XXX Lita
Unrelated to coronavirus@@Penguinandpear but on your scissors, do you feel the weight of the scissors is too difficult to handle when you're having pain flareups? I really loved the fiskers when I first got them, but they didn't last as long as I hoped. The heavier nicer scissors are so sharp and precise, but so heavy for me. Is there an in between you would recommend. I know you deal with pain issues, so thought you could direct me?
@@lw3396 i don’t have too much pain so the heavy shears are okay in that way but I struggle with them due to fatigue. I can use them for a short period only. I have my Ginghers for when I can’t use the heavy shears. They’re not as good but they are adequate and not heavy.
NEVER buy cheap thread. Never. It can actually spread while you are running it through your machine. In the states I have never had problems with Coats thread. However, the Gütermann thread sold at Joanns is very linty and has shredded on the machine. Cheap thread can melt under the iron and disintegrate in the wash. It also knots worse and shreds when you need to handsew.
Coats is cheap thread. You can buy it here for 99p a reel. Its very linty. Never had an issue with guterman thread. That being said, I used cheap thread in my machines for years and it didn’t cause any problems. I’ve never seen cheap thread melt under the iron (never even heard it can do that until now). I get knots when hand sewing no matter what quality thread I use. I should wax it really.
@@Penguinandpear I wax all thread for hand sewing. It's part of my prep routine. If I'm making trousers, I need 4 pieces about 27" long (Waistband, waist button, each leg) so I pull 5 (always one extra) and wax them before I get started so they're ready. I like to press to remove the excess using a paper towel I repaired a blanket edge last week and used two lengths. It was late at night and I didn't feel like going upstairs and messing with the iron. Never again! The thread was a knotty mess. Thread did not knot that badly in the 80s. I really only have easy access to two threads here in the states, Coats and Gütermann. The Coats is far superior to the Gütermann that is sold at retail level. Better Gütermann can be accessed via the internet, but ordering thread is a pain to me. Can't color match. If I'm looking for good thread, it can be bought only at quilting stores which only open during the weekdays and Saturday morning. Usually $5 per smaller spool. The super cheap thread used to sell for $1 for 10 spools. I see similar super cheap stuff off of Amazon these days, still coming out of China. I would recommend wasting 5 cents on any of it.
ouch! you have a loud pop sound on your video when talking about a new topic, but your voice is low. Very hard on the ears! Love your videos though! Hope you land on your feet!
Thanks for letting me know. I was recording the mic on my new laptop and for some reason it didn’t record at the right level. Should be better next video.
Thanks everyone! Laying here, with the ‘Rona. First time! I should’ve added a tape measure and marking tool to this list! Let us know what’s on your essential sewing supplies list? Xx
Sending love and warm hugs to you Claire! So very sorry you are ill. I guess it is spreading again. Hope you are on the mend now. You’re in my prayers sweetie! Love Lita xxx
Oh dear? I hope you feel better soon. 🫤
1. Drink lots of water! 2. Sleep sleep sleep!
Feel better soon! ❤️
It’s been a ROUGH few days but coming out the other side now!
officially a big fan Claire 🥰
Thank you RUclips!
If you put it out there that you want a used sewing machine you are likely to get a free one. A lot of people buy sewing machines and never use them. Brother is a great brand and so is Janome but older Singers are good.
I like Organ brand needles as much Schmitz. Nothing compares to Guttermann thread. If you need to save money, then buy a large spool of white, beige (or grey), and navy (or black) and use them on everything, no one sees your seams. I got a box of small spools of various colors on sale which I use for top stitching but it's not necessary.
When I was first married over 50 years ago, I didn't have a sewing machine, and I made two dresses for myself completely by hand. It was a fun experience, but I'm thankful that my husband bought me a machine shortly after that. I had that thing for over 30 years, and it was a real workhorse. I don't have that machine anymore, though. I've had two since then. I have a serger, too, which I love. I agree with everything you advise in your video. Thank you again!
Excellent video, Claire. Patience is also a sewing essential . . . and it is free! No dollars, no pounds, no pesos, no euro, no yen, no franc, no rupee. Gotta love that. Sewing is expensive enough as it is. And what the heck are poppers??? Thanks for another helpful, informative, and funny video.
Great point
I think you may know poppers as snaps? Yes patience is essential!!!!
My recommendation is an all metal vintage machine like a Singer 401 or 500. In the USA you are looking at $100 or so, and bonus, if you decide to sell it in a few years if you decide you don’t want to keep it, you might be able to not only sell it for what you paid for it, but you might be able to make a little money on it. If you do decide to keep it, it will last forever.
Yes! I have a 1955 Pfaff, all metal, and it is a workhorse.
Hi Claire, Your videos are my favorite for my break at work. I like the content but I love your personality
Claire, You're looking better than a few weeks ago. I learned to sew over 55 years ago. I had a friend sit with me to get me through a few items before I ventured out on my own. I was making clothes for my daughter and I got through with the minimum of equipment. My husband bought me a Singer sewing machine. Singer is my favorite. I know a lot of people don't care for Singer, but everyone is different. I'm still sewing on a Singer. I bought myself a new one a couple of years ago when I retired. Sending Light and Love to you. ❤🙏❤
Great video. I’m not a beginner, I just like to listen to you talk. I’ve been listening to you and learning about not over buying. To save my money for fabric that I actually have plans for and then spend my money on quality fabric! That makes so much sense. You’ve saved me do much money. One thing I did do when I started sewing for my self, was to choose easy patterns that would work for nightgowns or pjs. No matter how the garment turned out I would/ could still wear it . I learned enough to make a wearable piece so nothing loss. My best to you and thanks for the sewing therapy!P.S. my local library has a sewing machine!!!
Pins and/or fabric clips, a tape measure, and a straight ruler. A marking tool like chalk or needle and thread to make tailor tacks.
Tape measure, pins or clips, pattern weights or silverware
Momma used table knives to weight down patterns
Try sewing machine stores that take in trade machines. They often sell these machines for a real good price.
A decent ruler, even a short seam gauge, is something I always need for straight hems. I've also always needed SOME method for marking pattern pieces for darts or joining points or whatever. I've gone from tracing wheels/paper to tailor's tacks, to soap or chalk pencils, and to water or air soluble pens.
Good points. I was going with the absolute basics but should’ve added a tape measure and marking tool.
@@Penguinandpear You forgot to mention that we need a cat as an assistant. That's ABSOLUTELY essential! 😃 🐱
@susym5494 yes!!
I need to add that if you're left handed, buy a pair of left handed scissors! I have to use right handed scissors inside down to make them cut so definitely need left handed scissors for dressmaking.
Mine are Wilkinson Sword but I believe they are now marketed as Fiskars. Mine have lasted for nearly 40 years so well worth the outlay ❤
Thoughtful Creativity is a great channel!
“Looked like a Fisher Price toy 🧸 and acted like one”. 😂😂😂😂😂 You had me laughing out loud Claire!
Lol 🤣
I would never let anyone borrow my precious Juki machines.
You might also need a ruler or tape measure. And you should get some chalk for marking darts, circles, dots, squares and other pattern markings.
yes, rippers are our friend lol. I sewed my sleeve cuff to the neck band hummmm how did that happen lol
Hi Claire. I’m in West Valley City, Utah, USA. Great info for new sewers. I hope you life “upheaval” resolves soon so you can get back on track with your channel!
A good option for sewing machines in my area is to buy a gently used, refurbished machine from a store that sells a variety of machines.
Pinking shears are great for grading seams or trimming seams on facings as they reduce bulk. Great video again Claire.
I don't know what those are!
Even now, when I use Gutterman thread, I often use up my cheap, pre-wound bobbins that I bought years ago from Lidl … don’t seem to have had any problems so far
Suck a good video! I have a Husqvarna Viking sewing machine that I got for such a great deal on Facebook. Almost all of my sewing gadgets I have gotten from an estate sale. Sewing is such an expensive hobby!
Thank you for another great video !!! I never realized how many different scissors we needed !!! I am always losing mine so I need several pairs of them!!! Good advice about the thread also !!!
Another great Vlog Claire. Thanks for sharing your knowledge 😊
Yes tons of sewing machines are listed on FB Marketplace. People sell things they don’t really use in crummy economies.
Remember to check your machine manual for thread type. I have an older machine that was made (older than me) and it only takes 100 percent cotton thread.
Another great video sis! ❤
Great thoughts Claire! The sleeve ripper is my most important must have 😂 I enjoy your videos very much and always learn something! ❤
Thanks Claire. Always great informative videos. xxx
If I were just starting, I'd buy the Brother 6000 or 7000. It's still a deal at 180$ or 200$ and you get a great buttonhole function, a reverse stitch, and a needle up/down button. And it'll be brand new so you won't need to pay for a servicing. Mimi G said she used a Brother 6000 for 7 years before she was famous. 😂 my backup machine is a 6000. 👍
I agree. The newer machines have led lights and while I don’t use the fancy embroidery stitches, I love the brighter light!
Great tips Claire, best wishes from Andrea (not your sister 😂)
😁
Great video! I am guilty of buying too many sewing supplies, just because I get excited about using them. For instance, I bought a few bias makers, but I only use purchased bias tape because they are cheap and convenient to use.
Ooh you should try making it, it’s so much better. I have a video showing you how to
I like making bias tape out of striped fabrics and gingham. They make interesting details. You don't even need to buy a bias folder tool, you can make one out of cardboard.
I love making my own bias tape. It’s the only way to make sure it matches our garments.
Hi! I watch your vidéos from Toulouse, in France and I like it.😊
Bonjour, merci beaucoup
Another great video Claire! I wish i had your advice when I started years ago
I love a sew along, helps so much, I use old duvet for mock ups but don’t know how to alter for a better fit
Have a watch of my videos where I make clothes. I have a playlist on my channel. I talk a lot about my fitting issues. Also check out my recent video where I give my step by step process.
Good advice
Thanks Pam
That 'plop' sound is awful and it is louder than you. Yuk! Just thought it best to give feed-back.
Love your channel. I am delighted that you are still putting out videos. We don't need to always see you sewing. Good advice is priceless.
That’s good to know thanks ☺️
I didn’t find it all THAT bad, lol
I have to buy seam rippers in bulk. Lol.
Thanks for putting this video out Claire, I hope you're doing ok lovely :) Love to you & your special Sister, so glad she's there for you
Thank you. I’m okay thanks but have “the” virus. So that’s a bit annoying. Appreciate you! Xx
@@Penguinandpear hope you feel well soon! 💟
@@Penguinandpear I've just had the same virus! It's horrible & I hope you recover very soon. I'm thinking it must be as virulent as it was during the pandemic just now, I know so many people who've had it recently. Anyway,get well soon lovely. Big hugs xXx
PINS!!!
Technically you don’t need pins, you could baste with needle and thread.
I’ve had it several times but the first couple were the worst!!❤
The virus? Omg it’s evil. My first time. I had a fever and aches and pains and fluy feeling. Over the worst now but muscles still killing me and a bit fatigued from it.
yes, that pretty much sums up the horrible feeling I had, too. The first time I got it, it was right after getting the shot! I thought I was a goner, I never felt so bad in all my life. Take it easy! @@Penguinandpear
XXX Lita
Unrelated to coronavirus@@Penguinandpear but on your scissors, do you feel the weight of the scissors is too difficult to handle when you're having pain flareups? I really loved the fiskers when I first got them, but they didn't last as long as I hoped. The heavier nicer scissors are so sharp and precise, but so heavy for me. Is there an in between you would recommend. I know you deal with pain issues, so thought you could direct me?
@@lw3396 i don’t have too much pain so the heavy shears are okay in that way but I struggle with them due to fatigue. I can use them for a short period only. I have my Ginghers for when I can’t use the heavy shears. They’re not as good but they are adequate and not heavy.
👏👏👍
NEVER buy cheap thread. Never. It can actually spread while you are running it through your machine. In the states I have never had problems with Coats thread. However, the Gütermann thread sold at Joanns is very linty and has shredded on the machine. Cheap thread can melt under the iron and disintegrate in the wash. It also knots worse and shreds when you need to handsew.
Coats is cheap thread. You can buy it here for 99p a reel. Its very linty. Never had an issue with guterman thread. That being said, I used cheap thread in my machines for years and it didn’t cause any problems. I’ve never seen cheap thread melt under the iron (never even heard it can do that until now). I get knots when hand sewing no matter what quality thread I use. I should wax it really.
@@Penguinandpear I wax all thread for hand sewing. It's part of my prep routine. If I'm making trousers, I need 4 pieces about 27" long (Waistband, waist button, each leg) so I pull 5 (always one extra) and wax them before I get started so they're ready. I like to press to remove the excess using a paper towel
I repaired a blanket edge last week and used two lengths. It was late at night and I didn't feel like going upstairs and messing with the iron. Never again! The thread was a knotty mess. Thread did not knot that badly in the 80s.
I really only have easy access to two threads here in the states, Coats and Gütermann. The Coats is far superior to the Gütermann that is sold at retail level. Better Gütermann can be accessed via the internet, but ordering thread is a pain to me. Can't color match. If I'm looking for good thread, it can be bought only at quilting stores which only open during the weekdays and Saturday morning. Usually $5 per smaller spool.
The super cheap thread used to sell for $1 for 10 spools. I see similar super cheap stuff off of Amazon these days, still coming out of China. I would recommend wasting 5 cents on any of it.
ouch! you have a loud pop sound on your video when talking about a new topic, but your voice is low. Very hard on the ears! Love your videos though! Hope you land on your feet!
Thanks for letting me know. I was recording the mic on my new laptop and for some reason it didn’t record at the right level. Should be better next video.