For me it’s letting go of the desire to finish a project all in one sitting. I tend to avoid sewing altogether if I only have a bit of time but then I find myself pining and longing to be in my sewing room. Accepting that I will still feel gratified by only tracing my patterns pieces, or only cutting them out, etc helps a lot!
Yes! I have the same problem. I am trying to teach myself that it’s okay to not finish something all in one sitting, and that it doesn’t have to be perfect in order to progress my sewing skills. We can do this!
The worst is when you're lying in bed, half asleep, and suddenly you realize how to fix something you've been battling with. And you are not wide awake enough to do it, but you are scared you will forget the next morning🙄
For me it is the fear of 'ruining' a fabric, because I feel like you can not ever get the fabric back like it was and I need to find the exact perfect thing that goes with that specific fabric.
Mockups definitely help, and if you want to be frugal about it you can even use old cotton sheets, use them for mockups and once pieces get too small to use for sewing you can cut them up as cotton filling for stuff.
I have this same barrier, with sewing and other hobbies. As a beginner, I know I'm not going to do whatever material I'm using justice, be it fabric, stained glass, leather, etc. I try to keep reminding myself of The Quilting Marine's motto, "Remember, it's only fabric and it's only thread."
Depending where ur from there's a online fabric store that always has fabric for £1-2 per metre and because it's so cheap it's not so upsetting if it doesn't work out also because their prices are so low I bought aload of cream/ivory fabric to do mock ups with
A date to sew is great advice. Many years ago, before sewing machines, ladies had a day of the week in which to do their mending/sewing. My how we tend to go back to the simpler times when we can.
One thing that helps me is I think to myself, ‘I’ll just do this one step, and then, if I feel like it, I’ll do another…’. Usually I end up doing several steps.
I have to say I lost the most interest when I really did not have time and did not have a designated space. All I ever sewed was garments. So between working and raising a family, there wasn't much left over for sewing. When quilting came onto vogue and my kids were a bit older, I got back into sewing. Now we are empty nester and my husband created a sewing palace out of one of their old bedrooms. Now retired, I have time. I have a room. There are so many things to sew, so many family members to sew for! This is the best set up ever. I'm 65 and literally in the best sewing shape of my life!!
I live in a tiny space. I have to pack away and set up every time I want to sew and I don’t have a designated space. Having my stuff on wheels and focusing on one project at a time really helps me.
I have 3 lists for what I need or want to sew: 1 things that will take about an hour (eg mending or altering), 2 those that will take a morning or afternoon (I made a tailors ham), and 3 those that will take more than a day. Some of the bigger projects I've broken into smaller tasks for the other lists.
Something that helps me - not just with sewing but other hobbies - mentally go through the process first - for me this works best before I nod off to sleep. Think through your project step by step, starting with what you'll need to make it (tools, notions, everything). Spending time mentally making the project really helps when you get stuck in. My own necessary task is to put everything away once a project is done - my sewing corner (it really is a corner!) doubles up as my crafting area, and having a clear space is absolutely necessary to get going on a project. Great advice, Evelyn, I'm going to use these for my creative life in general :)
I have often sewn items several times in my mind, working through potential problems. It is especially applicable when one of my granddaughters comes up with an idea and tells me “you can make it”, even though it is something very complicated and time consuming, like a corset.
Sometimes I just say goodbye to the housework and sew!! It’s a nice break and the dishes will still be there when I get back! Fortunately most of the family in the house are old enough to deal with me saying I’m in a mood so I’m going to my room! If it’s been a very bad day I’ve been known to say that I’m not coming back!! It’s a nice break even when the project isn’t cooperating
My goal this year is to have one dress pattern with several options, so I only do the fitting once -- the hurdle that always slows me down. I saw the idea in a 1950's sewing book, and have been meaning to do it for years. They show one pattern that goes from cocktail gown to sleeveless tennis dress, by changing lengths, skirt style, fabrics etc... I plan to use a 1930's pattern I love, and make some sleeve and collar options that will include a sleeveless jumper/pinnafore dress . I just need to take that deep breath and get over the bit I hate. Fitting. Yuck!
I understand how you feel. Sometimes to help me get over a hurdle I think of the Nike slogan, "Just Do It! And, before I know it, it's done. The best to you!
I'm aiming to do the same - I've just started sewing garments, and I know once I have a few tops (blouses and dress bodices) that are fitted it'll be much easier - but first I need to do it!
I love the Closet Historian's videos for that kind of thing. She uses a well fitting bodice block and then adds features to it for various designs. She's really great for moving darts.
Great advice not just for barriers to sewing but for breaking various negative habits in life! My favorite one is to concentrate on the things that matter to us (eg sewing) instead of procrastinating (with Netflix) ;) Tnx a lot! :) wish you all motivation and passion for your next project.
'Check it Before You Wreck it' is going on the wall🤣 Great ideas. Thanks! I have a sewing room for the first time so everything is up and ready. I am semi retired so I have the time. Over a year of watching and learning from you and watching other you tube sewists accomplish great things finally gave me confidence and I am a sewing fool now.🤓 Having so much fun.
Learn to go with your energy flows! Usually trying to sew something when you are extremely tired will result in more mistakes. Finally, make a weekly date with yourself for ME time in your appointment book!
Having positive affirmations around ones sewing space is a great idea. It really helps when you run into those impossible periods of doubt about a project. Thank you, Evelyn!
I started making a very simple dress this weekend thinking it would take a day max. Following lots of resizing and seam ripping, I was really deflated. But then I remembered it's all practice and I just need to slow down and enjoy the process. I recommend that new sewers get some super cheap/free fabric and just go for it! The stakes are non-existent when you're not intending to wear it.
So true! I recently got some fabric from the thrift store and even with it being only 4 euros, I was afraid to start. But then someone told me that the goal from sewing the garment is to *learn*. Yes, you might end up with a great garment at the end, but if you don't, well, you've learned and will do better next time. That's worth those euros either way.
I sew for a living so the biggest obstacle to making things for me used to be the feeling that anytime I am at the machine I should be working on client garments. To counteract this guilt as well as to stay inspired for my customers' sake is to squeak in one tiny project or part of a pet project between each order. This has been such a breakthrough!
This is truly brilliant advice, Thank you!!!! I sew for a living as well, and find it really hard to find the time for me!!! I will be taking your advice . Thank you again.
Really great tips, thanks a lot. Sometimes you have just a bad day and are tired: than I make my sewing place clean, set in new needles in the machine, wind the bobbin... The next day you will love to sew at that nice place!!! Greetings from Sweden.
I call that tub my project box. On a whim, I bought pre-wound bobbins from Amazon. It has been a real timesaver for me. I bought 36 all-white bobbins (because that was what I needed for my project). They came in a nice very organized plastic box. I highly recommend ordering them. They were only about $7.00 and the time it has saved me (plus the wear and tear on my machine) has been worth it. If they don't work for you, you're only out $7.00.
What a coincidence! I’m a beginner and presently in this predicament. Im working on sewing my first skirt from a pattern and it feels intimidating to even start!
It will be fine. The important thing is to just get started. I suggest using some muslin fabric or an old bed sheet to practice on so you do not ruin the good fabric. This way you make mistakes, learn from it and when ready to make the real skirt, you have mastered your skills. The best to you!
@@lindaD1105 I’m with Panache Luxury on this. Start with an old sheet. Also remember makers can be their own worst enemy. When I look at a finished project if it’s mine I see the things I’m not happy with or want to improve. It took years to realize no one else saw all the things that I felt detracted from the finished project!!! Be kind to yourself!! You’ve got this!
Good tips, thank you. I need to start a note book, I forget about projects & find random fabric I can't remember what its for lol. My biggest barrier was troubleshooting my machine, it was constant and time-consuming. So I bought a 1920s machine in a table, yes it only does a straight stich but it does it perfectly every time, I'm learning how to use all the feet & they make everything easier. Now I just have to think about what I'm doing and not how to fix & redo everything...
I have several projects started, all quilts. Two I don't want to mess up, one I am sewing from my stash and discovered the fabric I wanted for sashing is not big enough so have to pick another fabric. And my biggest barrier is all the stuff on my sewing table, I was going through my sewing room and have all kinds of fabric and bins and works in progress on the table that need to be cleared off first. My biggest challenge though is my health and energy level that wanes. Great video. I think I will get off the computer and clear off my sewing table. Thanks for the inspiration.
My biggest barrier- my sewing space is all cleaned up after the last project, I wrestle with starting another mess. I love to sew and want to sew but that nice clean space is so nice to look at, sometimes I take a cup of tea and go sit in my space quietly. I just finished a lovely dress, I have 3 tops waiting-neatly piled with pattern at the end of my cutting table. It looks so serene.
I have only been sewing for a few months. Not clothing (yet) but I am making a quilt. I have this little voice in my head that I'm never going to finish and it's not going to look good. I have a hard time sewing a straight hem line. BUT! I am getting better! I found using a hand crank machine is easyer for me to have more control over my stitches. I can leave my machine out and all my materials laid out and ready at all times. I have found a love for sewing and vintage machines. I own 25 vintage and antique machines I even work on them and get them running. I love every one of them
I like to sew something that doesn’t matter. I made a bunch of pillow thingys that are filled with rice that you put in the microwave. We throw them under the covers in the winter. I used trashed, but clean sheets, then a soft flannel for the outside. Whatever thread that was in the sewing machine I used. I think it is important for people to allow themselves to make something that doesn’t have to be perfect, which nothing is anyway. I only started doing mock-ups in the last 10 yrs. I highly recommend it. I also make my mock-ups with fabric that I would actually wear if it turned out, sheets inexpensive fabric from the thrift store.
I like to use fun fabric color/print combinations. That motivates me to work so that I can see how the design comes together. I have been making tote bags, port pillows, recovery pillows, adaptive (hospital style) shirts and neck pillows for my Etsy shop. I have the most fun when I am putting different fabrics together.
#1 barrier, cleaning up my space! My sewing table becomes a dumping ground for everything and I don't want to move and put things away! same with the floor, which is my cutting space! I have to clean up and move everything and then put it all back!
I have set myself one hour an evening during the week, then a block of time at the weekend. The block time I use to set up the project and the one hour is for doing the project. My little phrase is "Mock ups are for making mistakes".
I keep a sewing journal to organize my thoughts, inspirations, my measurements, current project steps, what alterations I made, etc. I started simple with a small notebook. This year I made a pretty one with monthly calendars and preprinted project sheets on beautiful paper. I smile every time I open it. ☺️ so motivating.
All the patterns I've made go into page protectors in a binder, along with a sheet of paper indicating the date, my measurements at the time, what modifications I made to the pattern that may or may not have gotten marked on the actual pattern pieces, what modifications I suggest to Future Me if I repeat the pattern, and if I'm really on the ball when I did it, a scrap of whatever fabrics I used.
I try and do a little bit of sewing everyday. Today my "sewing" was picking out a thread. That's all I was able to do today, but I'm still happy because I did something.
Having a sewing buddy. My BFF and I encourage each other. It helps to have a friend who can help or just talk through a process. We have a great time when we do zoom sewing. ❤
I am working at a coat since august. With a lot of breaks because there are many pieces, fitting was difficult and so on. Now it makes progress because I will not do any weaving again till the coat is ready. This is my motivation.
I'm fortunate to have a craft room that I can turn off the light & come back later to exactly what I left! Since I do multiple crafts, I have sections! Sewing, jewelry making, wreath making, ect. I create most of my own sewing patterns, so I dedicate several days to that. No plans to get out any fabric...I just need paper, pencils, rulers, etc. After drafting my patterns, I use inexpensive fabric to make a sample & modify any patterns. At this point I know my patterns are good and I start making the clothes! Since I'm retired, I pretty much start sewing while I'm having my coffee , when I stop just depends on my other plans for the day.
Something that has helped me a lot has been a sewing journal. I use it to take notes on RUclips videos, notes on my current project, and any ideas or plans for upcoming projects. For instance, I have a list of simple quilt block designs to use with my scrap blocks ; ideas for gifts and where I put the fabric to make them. It's so much easier to flip through my journal rather than search my sewing and my attic storage.
You have helped me by saying no. That's my barrier as I am busy making my projects and people always wants me to sew or help them which stops me from getting on with my own projects. Thank you. Today I cleaned my table and tidied my fabrics.
Another sewist commented on advice from a vintage sewing book to make different versions of the same pattern to save time. I think I stumbled on the wisdom by chance. I am currently making my first Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses and decided to work through this book by making at least two versions of each. They are simple patterns, so I am hoping to improve basic skills. In the end I should have ten wearable dresses. I am going to pass on tapng a note to self on my machine, however. My mind first went to "Sewing. Because murder is wrong". Sew on and Sew forth, my friends!
I started with copying a tunic and a sweatshirt that I'd bought, both very simple, because I liked them and how they fitted me and wanted more, and I have improved my skills with each one (doing facings is not intuitive for me so I mess it up all the time). I've now got at least three of each shirt and am exploring different things, I've made a few medieval style rectangels-and-gores dresses and am currently having fun wiht a fitted princess seam bodice block but, getting a fitting darted bodice block is definitely on my list. I hate machine sewing the princess seam curves so I need to learn the magic of darts! But first, a circle skirt. And "Sewing. Because murder is wrong" really REALLY resonates, I definitely hand-sew because it keeps the screaming on the inside, and I have to keep my wits about me or I end up bleeding... I may embroider "Sewing. Because murder is wrong." on the iinside of a pocket where nobody else will ever see it. Or on a label, or maybe on a patch pocket... or in Sharpie on the interlining... Or put it on something I make for a friend who also sews and does cross-stitch... heheheh
What excellent sewing advice you gave! For me I have to have a dedicated sewing space set up and organized with what I need for my sewing projects. My sewing space remains in place so I don't have to set up again when I'm ready to resume working on my projects. I found I even have to have my ironing board set up ready at the helm because I dislike having to open and close it every time I need to iron for my sewing projects. I like to prep my sewing fabrics, patterns, and all that.
Me too. But I also don’t really have room for my full size board to be up all the time. I had thought I would figure out how to use one of the portable small ironing boards and maybe attach it to a wheeled cart. I think it would have worked but I found an antique children’s board. It’s a bit bigger than the portable but smaller than the full-size. It’s set to the height of my sewing machine table. Works great and it’s right beside me so I can iron as I go!
I have set up a twin sewing room one cutting one for sewing with plenty storage and time . Its that my vintage body / mind (older than my vintage sewing machines) takes time to get going . But when that third coffee kicks in I am a devil possessed.
Starting with a simple project helps me get to work on a more complicated one. I keep a pile a mending to work on when I'm afraid to start (fear of screwing up stops me). A simple achievement, like darning a hole or mending a torn seam, puts me in the right mindset to pick up where I left off on a new garment.
Sometimes I think I need one machine dedicated to white thread and one to black thread so when any need appears it takes no time to 'get it done'. This becomes an easier solution since I have several 1950s Singers around. One is already set up with a wheel presser foot for leather. Other than repair time they are surprisingly inexpensive to acquire. And thus the conundrum to actually set up two with different threads 'ready to go'.
I am going to schedule sewing time from now on. I love that idea!! Thank you! My barrier is a messy sewing room. I do my best at the end of each sewing session to tidy up my space so it is inspiring and ready to go next time I am ready to sew again. 😊 I hope you are feeling well, Evelyn ❤. I appreciate your channel.
If I'm stuck I try to find something really simple to work on. Like maybe I just trace or cut out a pattern that I'll want to use soon. I have a virtual stitch group (just a couple friends who are crafty) and we meet to do a couple hours on whatever project we're doing. I get more fired up to do things when I have company. There's an ADHD coping method called 'body doubling' that talks about that more. Sometimes in our group someone just organizes instead of sewing, but that's helpful too. I keep my sewing machine between my keyboard and monitor (I raised up the monitor) and when I want to sew, I just move my keyboard to the side. 😆 It's silly but it works for me.
When I loose my sewjo i do sewing adjacent activities. I’ll organiser my sewing aids, clean my machines, go through my trello adding patterns I’ve purchased, organise my fabric, etc. Having fresh mental images of my fabrics and patterns often sparks some inspiration. When I know what I want to do but can’t sew for practical reasons (no energy /no time ) I’ll spend time in my mental sewing space: I’’ll read the instructions for my next pattern, maybe look up a sew along. I am much more like to do the next step when I know exactly what it is and how much energy it will take
Evelyn you are soooo adorable and so much fun to listen to and watch. What a great video! Thank you for these tips on how to manage sewing barriers. And all this time I thought it was just me!
I keep bobbin/thread sets in basic colors: black, white, navy, grey. Three bobbins per spool of thread. They work for most items. If I'm doing a project with another color, I still thread two bobbins. I have stacking plastic baskets that hold each project - pattern, fabric, lining, thread, notions, etc. A laundry basket holds the whole sewing kit and kaboodle - grab the basket, everything I need is there - scissors/shears, pin, clips, rulers, pressing ham/clapper.
Im self-learning and in the beginning as well, so I make a lot of mistakes and my garments are still far from perfect. But when I mess something up and feel like the biggest loser on the globe, I step away and SLEEP ON IT. You'd be surprised how many ideas I get after a good nap/night to fix my mistakes in a creative way.
Thank you SO much!!! I'm a beginner self-teaching sewist and these barriers are so scary and overwhelming sometimes. Your tips will helps me so much on my journey, especially in regards to the "I'm-scared-to-mess-my-project-up" barrier! Thank you a lot!!! 😍❤
One barrier I uncovered while watching your wonderfully inspiring video is that having put on quite a bit of weight recently, I now have fitting issues that I don't know how to resolve and don't feel motivated to spend time and fabric on myself right now. I clearly need to be kinder to myself ! I need a body positive message on my sewing room wall! If anybody has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them!
For me one of my biggest sewing barriers is threading the dang needle, especially on my Juki industrial machine. The needle guard gets in the way of threading aids. Also, RUclips trying to find more hobbies for me than I could possibly have time for doesn't help either. The last time I got frustrated trying to thread my Juki's needle, I intended to take a brief break then try again. But, I got sidetracked on other hobbies. Now I can't remember how long it's been since I've attempted to sew anything. I wish their was something like your vintage sewing school for beginning tailors.
Since I discovered the Microsoft software called One Note, I keep all my notes, my body measurements, selected you tube videos, magazine articles, Pinterest images, pictures, photocopies of books and pattern instructions neatly organized and easily accessible. I no longer need to search to find instructions on how to install a zipper, how to draft a collar or in which order to assemble a garment (I am trying to make my own patterns and therefore I have to write my own sewing instructions). Not only is it efficient but it is very rewarding to go though all this informations neatly organized. And as a bonus, it is available online whenever I need it (during a class for example).
Thank you Evelyn for those tips. My biggest is setting up my work space. I always procrastinate. My hubby has now decided to take that on. I also make a list of my next project. Sometimes I have so much I want to do that I can't make up my mind what to do first.
Since I don’t have a designated room for sewing I have to use my Dining room table. I have converted a vintage armoire next to the table that holds all of my supplies. I keep tools and fabric in the larger top section and my machine fits nicely in the bottom. When I’m not sewing I just close it up and no one would ever know it’s there. It has worked out nicely.
I’ve ranked projects before, made a decision, and discovered I was missing notions or interfacing, In that case, those project move to the shopping pile. I work on the projects with every thing on hand and reassess if I’ve had time to buy what’s missing. It is so frustrating to start something and have to stop mid way.
I’ve seen some lovely craft tables with storage on wheels, I think that’s the way for me. Getting back to sewing after Home Ec since 6th grade lol... oh and I keep a journal on all my crochet projects with super detail and yes, your suggestion is great! I’ll keep one for my sewing projects... getting a sewing machine this week. Thanks for the inspiration 🙏🏼 The book essentialism is also great at narrowing down the absolute essentials.
I have viewed cutting and sewing as 2 separate events, even when I finished a project in a day. I've always needed to cut in an area separate from sewing, so I will pick up and put away everything from the cutting space before I move on to sewing. This way my entire living space isn't destroyed. Also after cutting (and cutting includes linings and interfacings) it's a perfect time to collect all notions and place everything in one box/bag/drawer - so that once I start sewing, there is nothing missing. Also if I have time left at the end of cutting and clean up, if I'm using iron-on interfacing, I press those into place. Very nice to sit at the machine and just keep going when sewing starts. I'm also very fanatical about pressing as I sew. As you become more familiar with garment construction, you'll learn when and how to stitch as much as you can together and then press, rather than jumping up after each completed seam. Another time saver for sewing, My good iron has auto-shutoff - which is a PITA for sewing. Expensive irons will give you the ability to turn this feature off. My iron is a $50 Shark that only uses distilled water. I bought a $9 basic iron at the same time - with no shutoff. I also use distilled water in it and it works fine and hasn't clogged in 10+ years. I plug my irons into a lit power strip (only one at a time) and because of the light, I remember to turn the irons off & unplug. Yes, I am that person that runs out of the house early Friday morning to catch a flight and returns Sunday evening to my still standing house - thankful that the auto shut-off worked - AND the cat didn't knock it over!
I also have space constraints that necessitate all cutting getting done in one session and often not where I do my sewing, so I always carefully label every piece for when I get to the actual sewing. And having an ironing board a flight of stairs away from your sewing does make one think a bit more about what all sewing can be done between ironing sessions....
1st barrier: I am blessed to have a work room but I've made project boxes to hold everything; project plan--from you Evelyn :), pattern, fabric & notions. A couple are refashion projects at the unpick stage -- a thing I find relaxing when my brain won't concentrate on more complex tasks. One is for mending -- a little task quickly done -- a warm up to the next stage of a project. 2nd: the upside to the Pandemic -- I'm working from home (digitally on duty), in my work room. When there is no task assigned to me, I can swivel around to my sewing machine (I followed your "makeover" steps to plan and re-arrange my workroom) so finding time is not my particular problem. I admit I am addicted to RUclips (more than 35 subscriptions I watch regularly--4 about sewing & your #1 on the list. So, motivation is immediately available. 3rd: Brilliant suggestions I shall start following immediately. Notes can be attached to my project box about the next step, I can organize the box contents in layers for each step, then prepping for the next one will also be easier. 4th: again, because of your re-organization guidance, my project boxes (only two) are the things I most want/need to do. They are at different stages -- already sewing one, the other is at the fabric prep/cutting stage. Weekends are when I can really steam ahead but again, my concentration is not always up to long sessions of one thing, so I can switch to the prep stage one -- washing, ironing, layout & pinning, are not so "scary" nor require the higher level of concentration I need for actual sewing. I learned my lessen when I drove the machine needle through the tip of a finger (just skin fortunately). 5th: scared of messing up. This is a biggy for me. I try to; make sure cut edges are stabilized appropriately in case I have to unpick and redo, use a longer stitch length so unpicking is less tedious, admit when I am too tired/frustrated/scared to keep going and step away for a bit, take a break to watch Evelyn for inspiration/motivation, or just stop if its later in the day and I really do need to just rest. From now on, I will have a Practice box (or bag within a project box) with scrap fabric for practice. And, I am going to put a note on my machine before covering it up so when I turn her light on for the next session, I see that encouragement. Great advice. I apologize for the lengthy comment. I wrote this in my digital sewing diary while watching the video so, copied and pasted. I hope its helpful in some way.
Thanks Evelyn, I’m in the process of reorganising my sewing space and haven’t found the right combination of things yet. The rescue cat with FIV who lives there has to be accommodated first and then, my higgeldy piggeldy assortment of tables. Almost there, thanks for your encouragement.
Always clean and oil the sewing machine, change the needle, wind the bobbin(s), thread the machine, and test the thread and machine settings on scraps of the fabric you are going to be sewing. Always read through the instructions at least three times before cutting out the pattern pieces. Always cut out your pattern pieces and check the measurments. Make adjustment where needed. Never use tape on a tissue pattern. Always make a teaster, if it is the first time you have used the pattern. Always prewash the fabric. Always test press a scrap of the fabric (to make sure it will not melt or take on a shine). You may have to use a pressing cloth on some fabrics. Always press (don't iron) the fabric and the pattern pieces (before pinning on the pattern and cutting). Always make sure your fabric is on grain (before pinning on the pattern and cutting). Never use a bed, carpet, or a pool table as a cutting area. A clean, smooth, hard surfaced floor will work; but, a wide, long, smooth topped, unshakey table is ideal. Do not remove the pattern pieces from the fabric until you start stay stitching. This will keep you from cutting out some pieces twice (wasting your fabric). If you have enough room to spread out your fabric, please pin all your patterns pieces on correctly before you start cutting. Always transfer the marking from the pattern pieces onto the fabric pieces with a marking method that will not stain or damage the fabric. Test the marker on a scrap of the fabric first. When you start stay stitching, always remove and pin the pattern pieces (one at a time) on top of each other to the wall (or a curtin or something else) unfolded until you have them all off the fabric. Then take them all together to the ironing area. Press and fold them all together into one flat folded piece that will slide back into the envelope. This should keep any pattern pieces from going missing. You may want to use the pattern again. Do not leave pins in your pattern. They can scrach your iron and rust into your pattern. Always press (don't iron) as you sew. You may have to use a pressing cloth to keep from melting or putting a shine on some fabrics. Always test on a scrap first. Don't rush. "Hast makes waste."
Oh my! Your tips about pinning the pattern pieces up and pressing then together to then fold together at the end is fantastic! I've never thought to do that and it's a brilliant idea! Thank you.
@@modmamaodon2945 I can not take credit for that idea. My High School sewing teacher, Mrs. French, taught all her sewing students how to do that. That was back in the 1960's. Thank you so much. Mrs. French would have loved you.
@@jayneterry8701 If you use tape, it may fall off with age, the glue on the tape will stain the pattern, and you will not be able to press a taped tissue pattern with a hot iron (without the tape melting) sticking to your iron/pressing surface and damageing your tissue pattern. My sewing teacher, Mrs. French, taught all her students this back in the 1960s.
My biggest hurdle (apart from my ADHD and disability) is the ironing board. I get so bored and warm and my legs get tired and my back hurts... Half the time I don't bother. Another big hurdle is the zipper. I have sewn several and every single one is wonky. 😩
Have you tried either sewing the zipper completely by hand or at least hand baste it before taking it to the machine? I struggle with longer zippers like on dresses. Always funny in the lower part. But the last time I made a dress I tried hand basting it first and the zipper came out great.
I often think ahead to when the next perfect opportunity for handsewing/ripping will be (watching TV, RPG night) and I try to be prepared by having my sewing project ready. When my hands are working I'm snacking less, so it's a win-win... Also: I meet with a friend to sew, usually on fridays after work. Or I have a zoom meeting with another friend to chat while doing some chores - she will be ironing hltheir laundry, I might be seamripping or cutting fabric. It's a date, it's in my calendar.
Thank you so much for this video! It is so helpful - and it’s all common sense! Things I could have thought of on my own if I didn’t let myself first be overcome with the anxiety of starting again after years of not sewing! But I needed someone to verbalize it for me! Ha! I used to really be quite good - I tailored wool coats and wool suit jackets and dresses in high school and lots of other things and I want to do that again. I have a couple of Rubbermaid tubs of fabric and need to get busy! I don’t care for many of patterns out there today but so many of the 60’s patterns I have from my high school years are still stylish today, and I still have those plus have so many from eBay and Etsy. Gotta get busy!!! Thanks again!
Come on Sandi…I’ve got 10kg (maybe even 15kg) to loose. How about we just make something which looks good on us now and we can call it our “practice” dress….then we can remake the same pattern when we shift the weight? We can be soon-to-be-slimmer sewing buddies. 👊🏻
I find my fear is cutting out the yardage for curtains. However many times I measure the lengths don't come out exactly the same. One tip for getting started at the machine is having a simple thing waiting by the machine like new towels or tea towels which need tape loops so they can be hung up on hooks. It just gets me in the mood.
Great ideas, have it all in a cart or in a box, have it all together. Because I don't have a sewing room, I would have to unpack everything and clean up after.
Barrier 1 is definitely a reason why I don't use my machine often and I only use my iron when absolutely necessary because they're on different floors, but I've got most of my hand sewing stuff in a rolling set of drawers that I can shove around the living room to be near wherever I feel like sitting to do my sewing, and if I want to, I've got a folding fabric box I can put scissors, pincushion, thread, thimble and project into if I want to do my hand-sewing somewhere not on my main floor. My addendum to Barrier 1 is that yeah it only takes a few min to get the machine and notions all out but it takes me half an hour to find tablespace for the machine (sometimes I just use it on the floor because I can't muster the energy to clear off the table or desk). And yesterday I ironed a seam flat on the little sleeve ironing board on the bathroom counter because the big ironing board makes too much noise when I open and close it and my husband was sleeping in the next room. Do what you've gotta do! I try to make new and different mistakes with each garment I make. Sometimes I go back and fix it, sometimes I leave it as a physical learning reminder :) My best tip for surmounting the barriers is to identify your specific barriers and put some thought into how you can streamline things. Is the problem fitting? I spent an hour on a zoom call with a friend telling me where I needed to stick pins and draw lines in a princess seam mockup. Definitely time not wasted, as I've now got two decent garments from that pattern and plans for more! And I like to listen to tv shows with the described video while I hand sew, then I can follow the story without looking at the screen all the time. I hate the noise of my machines and am terrible at maintaining clear horizontal space for setting up the machine or cutting patterns, so while I continue to attempt to get my life in order so that I can maintain a clear horizontal surface somewhere in the house, I do a lot of hand sewing instead, I find it way more calming and meditative than using my machines. I have designated the top of my rabbit's cage to be the home of my cardboard fold-out cutting table liner, and certain easily-moved things are allowed to gather there that can be easily relocated and returned when I need the space to cut out fabric. My ironing board lives on a different floor, so I work with a lot of flannel and linen where ironing is optional (linen can be hand-creased and flannel won't take a crease if you got the gods' blessing on it), and if I can't just avoid ironing, I sew strategically so I don't have to run up and down the stairs twelve times to iron after every seam. I hand sew in the rabbit's space and must keep stray threads and fabric scraps from being ingested so I've got a container in the bottom drawer of my drawers on wheels that all loose threads and small scraps go into, and a bag under the pillow I usually sit on when I stitch where bigger scraps can go so the rabbit doesn't steal them. I've got a stack of little plastic totes maybe twice the size of a shoebox) to safely contain mokcup fabric, post-project scraps sorted by fabric content, mockups, and all the tools threads and yarns (I do leather work, crocheting, tablet weaving and sock darning too) that don't fit in the drawers.
One of my biggest obstacles is that my sewing place is literally at my dining table. Now, there's no way to change that (bedroom has terrible lighting and no space anywhere else). But I am considering some different storage solutions for fabric and supplies (I also do bead embroidery, there's a lot) so it's not just... taking over the corner in the living room as it is now, lol.
My biggest hang up is getting a fit right. Being off the charts of the Big Four Brands, and across 3 different sizes of the independent brand I go with, not to mention some serious body image issues, makes finding the proper fit a massive challenge
Thank you so much. I'm a beginner so fear is a thing. Today I got going and discovered I needed supplies to finish something but got all the way through the cutting and prep part. When my stuff arrives I can fly through it. Thanks :)
My big obstacle is pinning and cutting patterns. I hate the process, as I just want to sit down and start sewing. The solution I found - and I know I'm not the first to think of this, lol - is to press, pin and cut my pattern pieces one day and set it all aside. Then I'm ready to go the next day I have available to devote to sewing. Somehow, just knowing my pieces are cut and waiting on me, makes it a joy to begin.
A thing that helps me, is setting time in my schedule, and plan what to make. I take the time needed for my sewing projects, and knit while watching tv. I will say, that giving me a scheduled time for sewing, helps me a lot. I use the time for planning, doing research and purchase the things needed for the project, as well as sewing. It’s also very nice , when you are told, that what you’ve just finished, is a thing you can be proud of. Keep up the good work , and keep sewing 🪡🧵
really great! especially the parts about knowing what project to do next and worrying about messing up the next thing. I tend to either have no ideas at all, or so many things I want to make that it's hard to choose which one to do first lol I also worry about messing up (especially with my more expensive fabric) but I'm starting to realize/have more confidence in the skills I already have
Such fabulous advice not just for sewing but other pastimes and hobbies. I really liked the idea of leaving notes on where you are on your project, I really need to start doing this. Thank you.
I actually have a room that is supposed to be my sewing room. The problem it is on the main floor of the house and has been used for a storage room while I have had a long illness. And all my sewing equipment is in the basement. The problem is I have limited mobility, I can't go get everything and set it up as a sewing room and motivating my family to do this for me is like pulling teeth.
When I got sick my sewing room became a dumping ground. Don’t know what to do with it just put it in the sewing room! It took a while to get through all the stuff. I found if I asked for help in general I didn’t get it but if I asked for one thing I did. They were willing to give me a few minutes to move or carry something. I just had to remember not to overwhelm them!
@Robin The Parttime Sewer That's a good idea. When I get out of hospital and rehab I think I will ask for help for 15 or 30 minutes at a time. I will set a timer. There is a lot that can be done in that amount of time and if its only that long, I think they will be more focused
I have always taped my pattern instructions on the wall right in front of me when I’m sitting at my machine so I’m not ruffling through piles of stuff for my instructions. Then, as I complete a step, I put a check mark next to it right on the instructions. I know right where I am at a glance this way.
My biggest barrier is my toddler and my newborn! Although I know that my time will come and I will have more time when they are older. Just not in a season of life with lots of sewing time at the moment. I try to get 30 mins in on the nights thru go to sleep at the same time
I had just made six totes for six different projects so everything for that particular project is at one place. Next I’ll have to cut all the pieces for that project and have it all together. This will help me when I feel the urge to sew. (My machine then only need threading before sewing.) Hopefully this will make my sewing more easy accessible.
Yeah I have sewing lock syndrome , I keep telling myself I got no one to make anything for or I tell myself I need more materials before I start , any excuse works!
Great tips! You know me too well. My favorite tip is to know the steps and make notes of what is next. I sometimes can't get back to sewing for weeks and I spend too much time trying to remember where I was last time. This will be a wonderful time saver!
When it comes to things that are hard to sew or that are small repairs, I just do it by hand slowly while listening to a podcast. I underrated handsewing for very long. It's an easy set up and you can work without creating noise, relax, listen to music...
I love your videos. I have a block right now because I can't decide what custom style I will create for my friend. I just need to sit down and plan it out. Maybe even buy a pattern instead of creating my own for this one. (Kpop inspired skater outfit)
Great video! So true about all of it. I have all those barriers and I am trying to overcome them. I'm working on fixing up a space for all my sewing equipment right now. I've sorted the different items (elastics, zippers, measuring tools, etc.) and have to get a cabinet to store all of it. And then I have to actually just sew something! I have a fear of messing it up but I just have to do it!!!!! Thanks for the great advice!
Hello from Canada! 🇨🇦 Thank you for this wonderful and invaluable video! I have been trying to get back into sewing after a very long absence. I'm finding that the old problems I used to have with sewing barriers have been haunting my attempt to restart. I'm so glad that I'm not the only one who has these problems and I love all the solutions you have come up with. I have been working on using those suggestions by reorganizing my sewing space and the way I think about sewing. Really enjoy your videos and especially your thrift hauls!
One thing that slows me down is having to buy, print and tape together patterns (or, buy and wait forever for them to be shipped to the bottom of the world). So my solution to this is to make myself the undergarments I’ll be going on with (and I did just finish a new corset, which I prefer over a bra), and then make a bodice block off that, so I can then easily draft myself new patterns by just changing the basic bodice block where necessary. Much cheaper than buying patterns, and I’d have to do for adjustments to the pattern anyway, might as well do it once for a block, and then never again.
I'm working on that as well! A bodice block is a bit intimidating to work on, but once you see what wizardry can be done to make whatever you like from them, it's quite motivating! Not to mention that standard patterns need massive amounts of adjustments for me anyway, being a non-standard shape. A fitting bodice block pattern would be the ultimate convenience.
@@Rhaifha for learning about the wizardry (seriously, just learning how to take a bodice block and manipulate the darts into so many different styles), I highly recommend Bianca from The Closet Historian. She’s the one that got me thinking to make a bodice block to begin with.
For me it’s letting go of the desire to finish a project all in one sitting. I tend to avoid sewing altogether if I only have a bit of time but then I find myself pining and longing to be in my sewing room. Accepting that I will still feel gratified by only tracing my patterns pieces, or only cutting them out, etc helps a lot!
This! I want to be sewing ALL the time. In order for me to satisfy that I do one or two things on my to do list and it somewhat satisfies my hunger :)
Yes! I have the same problem. I am trying to teach myself that it’s okay to not finish something all in one sitting, and that it doesn’t have to be perfect in order to progress my sewing skills. We can do this!
@@maggiemae9099 The road is the goal ... that slogan is going up top on my sewing area white board. Thank you for sharing.
The worst is when you're lying in bed, half asleep, and suddenly you realize how to fix something you've been battling with. And you are not wide awake enough to do it, but you are scared you will forget the next morning🙄
For me it is the fear of 'ruining' a fabric, because I feel like you can not ever get the fabric back like it was and I need to find the exact perfect thing that goes with that specific fabric.
that's why I almost always do a mockup for everything, unless it's a pattern I'm really familiar with.
Mockups definitely help, and if you want to be frugal about it you can even use old cotton sheets, use them for mockups and once pieces get too small to use for sewing you can cut them up as cotton filling for stuff.
I feel this. Fabric is so lovely!
I have this same barrier, with sewing and other hobbies. As a beginner, I know I'm not going to do whatever material I'm using justice, be it fabric, stained glass, leather, etc. I try to keep reminding myself of The Quilting Marine's motto, "Remember, it's only fabric and it's only thread."
Depending where ur from there's a online fabric store that always has fabric for £1-2 per metre and because it's so cheap it's not so upsetting if it doesn't work out also because their prices are so low I bought aload of cream/ivory fabric to do mock ups with
A date to sew is great advice. Many years ago, before sewing machines, ladies had a day of the week in which to do their mending/sewing. My how we tend to go back to the simpler times when we can.
One thing that helps me is I think to myself, ‘I’ll just do this one step, and then, if I feel like it, I’ll do another…’. Usually I end up doing several steps.
I do this too! Sometimes I just start by looking at the pattern or start ironing the fabric and suddenly I’ve started the project
Yep! Starting is the hardest part, once you start is ready to keep going I think too!
I have to say I lost the most interest when I really did not have time and did not have a designated space. All I ever sewed was garments. So between working and raising a family, there wasn't much left over for sewing. When quilting came onto vogue and my kids were a bit older, I got back into sewing. Now we are empty nester and my husband created a sewing palace out of one of their old bedrooms. Now retired, I have time. I have a room. There are so many things to sew, so many family members to sew for! This is the best set up ever. I'm 65 and literally in the best sewing shape of my life!!
I live in a tiny space. I have to pack away and set up every time I want to sew and I don’t have a designated space. Having my stuff on wheels and focusing on one project at a time really helps me.
I have 3 lists for what I need or want to sew: 1 things that will take about an hour (eg mending or altering), 2 those that will take a morning or afternoon (I made a tailors ham), and 3 those that will take more than a day. Some of the bigger projects I've broken into smaller tasks for the other lists.
Brilliant idea!!! That way there's always a project plan for every situation! I'm going to use this tip, thankyou 😀
I think this is great - going to start working on my lists!
Something that helps me - not just with sewing but other hobbies - mentally go through the process first - for me this works best before I nod off to sleep. Think through your project step by step, starting with what you'll need to make it (tools, notions, everything). Spending time mentally making the project really helps when you get stuck in. My own necessary task is to put everything away once a project is done - my sewing corner (it really is a corner!) doubles up as my crafting area, and having a clear space is absolutely necessary to get going on a project. Great advice, Evelyn, I'm going to use these for my creative life in general :)
I have often sewn items several times in my mind, working through potential problems. It is especially applicable when one of my granddaughters comes up with an idea and tells me “you can make it”, even though it is something very complicated and time consuming, like a corset.
Yes!! I always do this too and find it so helpful! 😀 Thanks for leaving the tip for others!
This is so helpful!
Sometimes I just say goodbye to the housework and sew!! It’s a nice break and the dishes will still be there when I get back! Fortunately most of the family in the house are old enough to deal with me saying I’m in a mood so I’m going to my room! If it’s been a very bad day I’ve been known to say that I’m not coming back!! It’s a nice break even when the project isn’t cooperating
My goal this year is to have one dress pattern with several options, so I only do the fitting once -- the hurdle that always slows me down. I saw the idea in a 1950's sewing book, and have been meaning to do it for years. They show one pattern that goes from cocktail gown to sleeveless tennis dress, by changing lengths, skirt style, fabrics etc... I plan to use a 1930's pattern I love, and make some sleeve and collar options that will include a sleeveless jumper/pinnafore dress . I just need to take that deep breath and get over the bit I hate. Fitting. Yuck!
I understand how you feel. Sometimes to help me get over a hurdle I think of the Nike slogan, "Just Do It! And, before I know it, it's done. The best to you!
Fitting is a pain but think of all the great things you can make once you have a bodice that really fits!!!
I'm aiming to do the same - I've just started sewing garments, and I know once I have a few tops (blouses and dress bodices) that are fitted it'll be much easier - but first I need to do it!
I love the Closet Historian's videos for that kind of thing. She uses a well fitting bodice block and then adds features to it for various designs. She's really great for moving darts.
This is my idea of sewing yourself a wardrobe too! Just take your time, you do great! 😀
Great advice not just for barriers to sewing but for breaking various negative habits in life! My favorite one is to concentrate on the things that matter to us (eg sewing) instead of procrastinating (with Netflix) ;)
Tnx a lot! :) wish you all motivation and passion for your next project.
Thanks for watching, I'm glad it helped!
'Check it Before You Wreck it' is going on the wall🤣 Great ideas. Thanks! I have a sewing room for the first time so everything is up and ready. I am semi retired so I have the time. Over a year of watching and learning from you and watching other you tube sewists accomplish great things finally gave me confidence and I am a sewing fool now.🤓 Having so much fun.
Awww I'm so glad to hear it!!
Learn to go with your energy flows! Usually trying to sew something when you are extremely tired will result in more mistakes. Finally, make a weekly date with yourself for ME time in your appointment book!
Having positive affirmations around ones sewing space is a great idea. It really helps when you run into those impossible periods of doubt about a project. Thank you, Evelyn!
I like that too! You could leave yourself a post it note at the end of each session ready for the next time 😀
@@Evelyn__Wood, That's a great idea.
I started making a very simple dress this weekend thinking it would take a day max. Following lots of resizing and seam ripping, I was really deflated. But then I remembered it's all practice and I just need to slow down and enjoy the process. I recommend that new sewers get some super cheap/free fabric and just go for it! The stakes are non-existent when you're not intending to wear it.
So true! I recently got some fabric from the thrift store and even with it being only 4 euros, I was afraid to start. But then someone told me that the goal from sewing the garment is to *learn*. Yes, you might end up with a great garment at the end, but if you don't, well, you've learned and will do better next time. That's worth those euros either way.
I sew for a living so the biggest obstacle to making things for me used to be the feeling that anytime I am at the machine I should be working on client garments. To counteract this guilt as well as to stay inspired for my customers' sake is to squeak in one tiny project or part of a pet project between each order. This has been such a breakthrough!
Good for you for being able to do a project for yourself in between jobs.
This is truly brilliant advice, Thank you!!!!
I sew for a living as well, and find it really hard to find the time for me!!! I will be taking your advice . Thank you again.
Really great tips, thanks a lot. Sometimes you have just a bad day and are tired: than I make my sewing place clean, set in new needles in the machine, wind the bobbin... The next day you will love to sew at that nice place!!! Greetings from Sweden.
That’s a great idea 😊
I call that tub my project box. On a whim, I bought pre-wound bobbins from Amazon. It has been a real timesaver for me. I bought 36 all-white bobbins (because that was what I needed for my project). They came in a nice very organized plastic box. I highly recommend ordering them. They were only about $7.00 and the time it has saved me (plus the wear and tear on my machine) has been worth it. If they don't work for you, you're only out $7.00.
What a coincidence! I’m a beginner and presently in this predicament. Im working on sewing my first skirt from a pattern and it feels intimidating to even start!
It will be fine. The important thing is to just get started. I suggest using some muslin fabric or an old bed sheet to practice on so you do not ruin the good fabric. This way you make mistakes, learn from it and when ready to make the real skirt, you have mastered your skills. The best to you!
@@panacheluxury4262 thanks for the vote of confidence! 😊
@@lindaD1105, You're welcome!
@@lindaD1105 I’m with Panache Luxury on this. Start with an old sheet. Also remember makers can be their own worst enemy. When I look at a finished project if it’s mine I see the things I’m not happy with or want to improve. It took years to realize no one else saw all the things that I felt detracted from the finished project!!! Be kind to yourself!! You’ve got this!
Good tips, thank you. I need to start a note book, I forget about projects & find random fabric I can't remember what its for lol. My biggest barrier was troubleshooting my machine, it was constant and time-consuming. So I bought a 1920s machine in a table, yes it only does a straight stich but it does it perfectly every time, I'm learning how to use all the feet & they make everything easier. Now I just have to think about what I'm doing and not how to fix & redo everything...
I have several projects started, all quilts. Two I don't want to mess up, one I am sewing from my stash and discovered the fabric I wanted for sashing is not big enough so have to pick another fabric. And my biggest barrier is all the stuff on my sewing table, I was going through my sewing room and have all kinds of fabric and bins and works in progress on the table that need to be cleared off first. My biggest challenge though is my health and energy level that wanes. Great video. I think I will get off the computer and clear off my sewing table. Thanks for the inspiration.
Totally relate to the health barrier, the fatigue I suffer since my stroke only allows me small windows of sewing time, it's really annoying!
@@juliewarnes6750 I have ulcerative colitis and have been flaring for months. Change of meds seems to be helping finally.
My biggest barrier- my sewing space is all cleaned up after the last project, I wrestle with starting another mess. I love to sew and want to sew but that nice clean space is so nice to look at, sometimes I take a cup of tea and go sit in my space quietly. I just finished a lovely dress, I have 3 tops waiting-neatly piled with pattern at the end of my cutting table. It looks so serene.
Hi Evelyn! I follow you to learn about sewing and to improve my English. Im from Venezuela, far from Australia. Kisses and hugs :)
I have only been sewing for a few months. Not clothing (yet) but I am making a quilt. I have this little voice in my head that I'm never going to finish and it's not going to look good. I have a hard time sewing a straight hem line. BUT! I am getting better! I found using a hand crank machine is easyer for me to have more control over my stitches. I can leave my machine out and all my materials laid out and ready at all times. I have found a love for sewing and vintage machines. I own 25 vintage and antique machines I even work on them and get them running. I love every one of them
I like to sew something that doesn’t matter. I made a bunch of pillow thingys that are filled with rice that you put in the microwave. We throw them under the covers in the winter. I used trashed, but clean sheets, then a soft flannel for the outside. Whatever thread that was in the sewing machine I used. I think it is important for people to allow themselves to make something that doesn’t have to be perfect, which nothing is anyway. I only started doing mock-ups in the last 10 yrs. I highly recommend it. I also make my mock-ups with fabric that I would actually wear if it turned out, sheets inexpensive fabric from the thrift store.
I like to use fun fabric color/print combinations. That motivates me to work so that I can see how the design comes together. I have been making tote bags, port pillows, recovery pillows, adaptive (hospital style) shirts and neck pillows for my Etsy shop. I have the most fun when I am putting different fabrics together.
#1 barrier, cleaning up my space! My sewing table becomes a dumping ground for everything and I don't want to move and put things away! same with the floor, which is my cutting space! I have to clean up and move everything and then put it all back!
I have set myself one hour an evening during the week, then a block of time at the weekend. The block time I use to set up the project and the one hour is for doing the project. My little phrase is "Mock ups are for making mistakes".
I appreciate your motto about mock ups. I’m even afraid to cut into the muslin so this will be a phrase I’m writing down and using. Thank you 😊
@@bienjour I'm glad it helps, it gave me the confidence to get on and make things.
I keep a sewing journal to organize my thoughts, inspirations, my measurements, current project steps, what alterations I made, etc. I started simple with a small notebook. This year I made a pretty one with monthly calendars and preprinted project sheets on beautiful paper. I smile every time I open it. ☺️ so motivating.
All the patterns I've made go into page protectors in a binder, along with a sheet of paper indicating the date, my measurements at the time, what modifications I made to the pattern that may or may not have gotten marked on the actual pattern pieces, what modifications I suggest to Future Me if I repeat the pattern, and if I'm really on the ball when I did it, a scrap of whatever fabrics I used.
I try and do a little bit of sewing everyday. Today my "sewing" was picking out a thread. That's all I was able to do today, but I'm still happy because I did something.
Having a sewing buddy. My BFF and I encourage each other. It helps to have a friend who can help or just talk through a process.
We have a great time when we do zoom sewing. ❤
ooh a sewing buddy to help you sort out fit issues is probably the best addition to the sewing kit I've made since I started sewing again...
your lessons have helped me a lot , you're a great teacher I'm always looking forward .
I am working at a coat since august. With a lot of breaks because there are many pieces, fitting was difficult and so on. Now it makes progress because I will not do any weaving again till the coat is ready. This is my motivation.
My big barrier is perfectionism. That's why I procrastinate.
I'm fortunate to have a craft room that I can turn off the light & come back later to exactly what I left! Since I do multiple crafts, I have sections! Sewing, jewelry making, wreath making, ect. I create most of my own sewing patterns, so I dedicate several days to that. No plans to get out any fabric...I just need paper, pencils, rulers, etc. After drafting my patterns, I use inexpensive fabric to make a sample & modify any patterns. At this point I know my patterns are good and I start making the clothes! Since I'm retired, I pretty much start sewing while I'm having my coffee , when I stop just depends on my other plans for the day.
Something that has helped me a lot has been a sewing journal. I use it to take notes on RUclips videos, notes on my current project, and any ideas or plans for upcoming projects. For instance, I have a list of simple quilt block designs to use with my scrap blocks ; ideas for gifts and where I put the fabric to make them. It's so much easier to flip through my journal rather than search my sewing and my attic storage.
I like the part about where you put the fabric lol Joan T. 💖
@@jayneterry8701 One time I cleaned my sewing room and forgot the new place for my journal!
You have helped me by saying no. That's my barrier as I am busy making my projects and people always wants me to sew or help them which stops me from getting on with my own projects. Thank you. Today I cleaned my table and tidied my fabrics.
Another sewist commented on advice from a vintage sewing book to make different versions of the same pattern to save time. I think I stumbled on the wisdom by chance. I am currently making my first Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses and decided to work through this book by making at least two versions of each. They are simple patterns, so I am hoping to improve basic skills. In the end I should have ten wearable dresses. I am going to pass on tapng a note to self on my machine, however. My mind first went to "Sewing. Because murder is wrong". Sew on and Sew forth, my friends!
🤣🔥😂😭
I started with copying a tunic and a sweatshirt that I'd bought, both very simple, because I liked them and how they fitted me and wanted more, and I have improved my skills with each one (doing facings is not intuitive for me so I mess it up all the time). I've now got at least three of each shirt and am exploring different things, I've made a few medieval style rectangels-and-gores dresses and am currently having fun wiht a fitted princess seam bodice block but, getting a fitting darted bodice block is definitely on my list. I hate machine sewing the princess seam curves so I need to learn the magic of darts! But first, a circle skirt.
And "Sewing. Because murder is wrong" really REALLY resonates, I definitely hand-sew because it keeps the screaming on the inside, and I have to keep my wits about me or I end up bleeding... I may embroider "Sewing. Because murder is wrong." on the iinside of a pocket where nobody else will ever see it. Or on a label, or maybe on a patch pocket... or in Sharpie on the interlining... Or put it on something I make for a friend who also sews and does cross-stitch... heheheh
What excellent sewing advice you gave! For me I have to have a dedicated sewing space set up and organized with what I need for my sewing projects. My sewing space remains in place so I don't have to set up again when I'm ready to resume working on my projects. I found I even have to have my ironing board set up ready at the helm because I dislike having to open and close it every time I need to iron for my sewing projects. I like to prep my sewing fabrics, patterns, and all that.
Me too. But I also don’t really have room for my full size board to be up all the time. I had thought I would figure out how to use one of the portable small ironing boards and maybe attach it to a wheeled cart. I think it would have worked but I found an antique children’s board. It’s a bit bigger than the portable but smaller than the full-size. It’s set to the height of my sewing machine table. Works great and it’s right beside me so I can iron as I go!
I have set up a twin sewing room one cutting
one for sewing with plenty storage and time .
Its that my vintage body / mind (older than my vintage sewing machines) takes time to get going .
But when that third coffee kicks in I am
a devil possessed.
Starting with a simple project helps me get to work on a more complicated one. I keep a pile a mending to work on when I'm afraid to start (fear of screwing up stops me). A simple achievement, like darning a hole or mending a torn seam, puts me in the right mindset to pick up where I left off on a new garment.
Sometimes I think I need one machine dedicated to white thread and one to black thread so when any need appears it takes no time to 'get it done'. This becomes an easier solution since I have several 1950s Singers around. One is already set up with a wheel presser foot for leather. Other than repair time they are surprisingly inexpensive to acquire. And thus the conundrum to actually set up two with different threads 'ready to go'.
I am going to schedule sewing time from now on. I love that idea!! Thank you!
My barrier is a messy sewing room. I do my best at the end of each sewing session to tidy up my space so it is inspiring and ready to go next time I am ready to sew again. 😊
I hope you are feeling well, Evelyn ❤. I appreciate your channel.
I love this blouse, the frilly sleeves, so lovely.
If I'm stuck I try to find something really simple to work on. Like maybe I just trace or cut out a pattern that I'll want to use soon.
I have a virtual stitch group (just a couple friends who are crafty) and we meet to do a couple hours on whatever project we're doing. I get more fired up to do things when I have company. There's an ADHD coping method called 'body doubling' that talks about that more. Sometimes in our group someone just organizes instead of sewing, but that's helpful too.
I keep my sewing machine between my keyboard and monitor (I raised up the monitor) and when I want to sew, I just move my keyboard to the side. 😆 It's silly but it works for me.
Buddies and Zoom friends have definitely been a life line these past 2 years!
When I loose my sewjo i do sewing adjacent activities.
I’ll organiser my sewing aids, clean my machines, go through my trello adding patterns I’ve purchased, organise my fabric, etc.
Having fresh mental images of my fabrics and patterns often sparks some inspiration.
When I know what I want to do but can’t sew for practical reasons (no energy /no time ) I’ll spend time in my mental sewing space: I’’ll read the instructions for my next pattern, maybe look up a sew along. I am much more like to do the next step when I know exactly what it is and how much energy it will take
Evelyn you are soooo adorable and so much fun to listen to and watch. What a great video! Thank you for these tips on how to manage sewing barriers. And all this time I thought it was just me!
I keep bobbin/thread sets in basic colors: black, white, navy, grey. Three bobbins per spool of thread. They work for most items. If I'm doing a project with another color, I still thread two bobbins. I have stacking plastic baskets that hold each project - pattern, fabric, lining, thread, notions, etc. A laundry basket holds the whole sewing kit and kaboodle - grab the basket, everything I need is there - scissors/shears, pin, clips, rulers, pressing ham/clapper.
Im self-learning and in the beginning as well, so I make a lot of mistakes and my garments are still far from perfect. But when I mess something up and feel like the biggest loser on the globe, I step away and SLEEP ON IT. You'd be surprised how many ideas I get after a good nap/night to fix my mistakes in a creative way.
some of my most creative moments have happened when I thought I had messed up only to find that the finished garment looked amazing.
I’m signing up for a sewing workshop
So excited and happy
Thank you SO much!!! I'm a beginner self-teaching sewist and these barriers are so scary and overwhelming sometimes. Your tips will helps me so much on my journey, especially in regards to the "I'm-scared-to-mess-my-project-up" barrier! Thank you a lot!!! 😍❤
One barrier I uncovered while watching your wonderfully inspiring video is that having put on quite a bit of weight recently, I now have fitting issues that I don't know how to resolve and don't feel motivated to spend time and fabric on myself right now. I clearly need to be kinder to myself ! I need a body positive message on my sewing room wall! If anybody has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them!
For me one of my biggest sewing barriers is threading the dang needle, especially on my Juki industrial machine. The needle guard gets in the way of threading aids. Also, RUclips trying to find more hobbies for me than I could possibly have time for doesn't help either. The last time I got frustrated trying to thread my Juki's needle, I intended to take a brief break then try again. But, I got sidetracked on other hobbies. Now I can't remember how long it's been since I've attempted to sew anything.
I wish their was something like your vintage sewing school for beginning tailors.
Since I discovered the Microsoft software called One Note, I keep all my notes, my body measurements, selected you tube videos, magazine articles, Pinterest images, pictures, photocopies of books and pattern instructions neatly organized and easily accessible. I no longer need to search to find instructions on how to install a zipper, how to draft a collar or in which order to assemble a garment (I am trying to make my own patterns and therefore I have to write my own sewing instructions). Not only is it efficient but it is very rewarding to go though all this informations neatly organized. And as a bonus, it is available online whenever I need it (during a class for example).
Thank you Evelyn for your tips. Greetings from the other side of the world.
Thank you Evelyn for those tips. My biggest is setting up my work space. I always procrastinate. My hubby has now decided to take that on. I also make a list of my next project. Sometimes I have so much I want to do that I can't make up my mind what to do first.
Since I don’t have a designated room for sewing I have to use my Dining room table. I have converted a vintage armoire next to the table that holds all of my supplies. I keep tools and fabric in the larger top section and my machine fits nicely in the bottom. When I’m not sewing I just close it up and no one would ever know it’s there. It has worked out nicely.
The ironing pile? ;-)
I’ve ranked projects before, made a decision, and discovered I was missing notions or interfacing, In that case, those project move to the shopping pile. I work on the projects with every thing on hand and reassess if I’ve had time to buy what’s missing. It is so frustrating to start something and have to stop mid way.
I’ve seen some lovely craft tables with storage on wheels, I think that’s the way for me. Getting back to sewing after Home Ec since 6th grade lol... oh and I keep a journal on all my crochet projects with super detail and yes, your suggestion is great! I’ll keep one for my sewing projects... getting a sewing machine this week. Thanks for the inspiration 🙏🏼 The book essentialism is also great at narrowing down the absolute essentials.
I have viewed cutting and sewing as 2 separate events, even when I finished a project in a day. I've always needed to cut in an area separate from sewing, so I will pick up and put away everything from the cutting space before I move on to sewing. This way my entire living space isn't destroyed. Also after cutting (and cutting includes linings and interfacings) it's a perfect time to collect all notions and place everything in one box/bag/drawer - so that once I start sewing, there is nothing missing. Also if I have time left at the end of cutting and clean up, if I'm using iron-on interfacing, I press those into place. Very nice to sit at the machine and just keep going when sewing starts. I'm also very fanatical about pressing as I sew. As you become more familiar with garment construction, you'll learn when and how to stitch as much as you can together and then press, rather than jumping up after each completed seam.
Another time saver for sewing, My good iron has auto-shutoff - which is a PITA for sewing. Expensive irons will give you the ability to turn this feature off. My iron is a $50 Shark that only uses distilled water. I bought a $9 basic iron at the same time - with no shutoff. I also use distilled water in it and it works fine and hasn't clogged in 10+ years. I plug my irons into a lit power strip (only one at a time) and because of the light, I remember to turn the irons off & unplug.
Yes, I am that person that runs out of the house early Friday morning to catch a flight and returns Sunday evening to my still standing house - thankful that the auto shut-off worked - AND the cat didn't knock it over!
I also have space constraints that necessitate all cutting getting done in one session and often not where I do my sewing, so I always carefully label every piece for when I get to the actual sewing. And having an ironing board a flight of stairs away from your sewing does make one think a bit more about what all sewing can be done between ironing sessions....
Sometimes what Ive done is make a quick 5-10 min project to get the juices flowing & ride the momentum after to get stuff done
1st barrier: I am blessed to have a work room but I've made project boxes to hold everything; project plan--from you Evelyn :), pattern, fabric & notions. A couple are refashion projects at the unpick stage -- a thing I find relaxing when my brain won't concentrate on more complex tasks. One is for mending -- a little task quickly done -- a warm up to the next stage of a project.
2nd: the upside to the Pandemic -- I'm working from home (digitally on duty), in my work room. When there is no task assigned to me, I can swivel around to my sewing machine (I followed your "makeover" steps to plan and re-arrange my workroom) so finding time is not my particular problem. I admit I am addicted to RUclips (more than 35 subscriptions I watch regularly--4 about sewing & your #1 on the list. So, motivation is immediately available.
3rd: Brilliant suggestions I shall start following immediately. Notes can be attached to my project box about the next step, I can organize the box contents in layers for each step, then prepping for the next one will also be easier.
4th: again, because of your re-organization guidance, my project boxes (only two) are the things I most want/need to do. They are at different stages -- already sewing one, the other is at the fabric prep/cutting stage. Weekends are when I can really steam ahead but again, my concentration is not always up to long sessions of one thing, so I can switch to the prep stage one -- washing, ironing, layout & pinning, are not so "scary" nor require the higher level of concentration I need for actual sewing. I learned my lessen when I drove the machine needle through the tip of a finger (just skin fortunately).
5th: scared of messing up. This is a biggy for me. I try to; make sure cut edges are stabilized appropriately in case I have to unpick and redo, use a longer stitch length so unpicking is less tedious, admit when I am too tired/frustrated/scared to keep going and step away for a bit, take a break to watch Evelyn for inspiration/motivation, or just stop if its later in the day and I really do need to just rest. From now on, I will have a Practice box (or bag within a project box) with scrap fabric for practice. And, I am going to put a note on my machine before covering it up so when I turn her light on for the next session, I see that encouragement. Great advice.
I apologize for the lengthy comment. I wrote this in my digital sewing diary while watching the video so, copied and pasted. I hope its helpful in some way.
Thanks Evelyn, I’m in the process of reorganising my sewing space and haven’t found the right combination of things yet. The rescue cat with FIV who lives there has to be accommodated first and then, my higgeldy piggeldy assortment of tables. Almost there, thanks for your encouragement.
Always clean and oil the sewing machine, change the needle, wind the bobbin(s), thread the machine, and test the thread and machine settings on scraps of the fabric you are going to be sewing.
Always read through the instructions at least three times before cutting out the pattern pieces.
Always cut out your pattern pieces and check the measurments. Make adjustment where needed. Never use tape on a tissue pattern.
Always make a teaster, if it is the first time you have used the pattern.
Always prewash the fabric.
Always test press a scrap of the fabric (to make sure it will not melt or take on a shine). You may have to use a pressing cloth on some fabrics.
Always press (don't iron) the fabric and the pattern pieces (before pinning on the pattern and cutting).
Always make sure your fabric is on grain (before pinning on the pattern and cutting).
Never use a bed, carpet, or a pool table as a cutting area. A clean, smooth, hard surfaced floor will work; but, a wide, long, smooth topped, unshakey table is ideal.
Do not remove the pattern pieces from the fabric until you start stay stitching. This will keep you from cutting out some pieces twice (wasting your fabric). If you have enough room to spread out your fabric, please pin all your patterns pieces on correctly before you start cutting.
Always transfer the marking from the pattern pieces onto the fabric pieces with a marking method that will not stain or damage the fabric. Test the marker on a scrap of the fabric first.
When you start stay stitching, always remove and pin the pattern pieces (one at a time) on top of each other to the wall (or a curtin or something else) unfolded until you have them all off the fabric. Then take them all together to the ironing area. Press and fold them all together into one flat folded piece that will slide back into the envelope. This should keep any pattern pieces from going missing. You may want to use the pattern again. Do not leave pins in your pattern. They can scrach your iron and rust into your pattern.
Always press (don't iron) as you sew. You may have to use a pressing cloth to keep from melting or putting a shine on some fabrics. Always test on a scrap first.
Don't rush. "Hast makes waste."
Oh my! Your tips about pinning the pattern pieces up and pressing then together to then fold together at the end is fantastic! I've never thought to do that and it's a brilliant idea! Thank you.
@@modmamaodon2945 I can not take credit for that idea. My High School sewing teacher, Mrs. French, taught all her sewing students how to do that. That was back in the 1960's. Thank you so much. Mrs. French would have loved you.
Wow that definitely spells it out! I use tape on tissue but the frosted kind so you can still write on it.
@@jayneterry8701 If you use tape, it may fall off with age, the glue on the tape will stain the pattern, and you will not be able to press a taped tissue pattern with a hot iron (without the tape melting) sticking to your iron/pressing surface and damageing your tissue pattern. My sewing teacher, Mrs. French, taught all her students this back in the 1960s.
@@arvettadelashmit9337 how do you make adjustments to your pattern piece? How would you add to the tissue?🙂
My biggest hurdle (apart from my ADHD and disability) is the ironing board. I get so bored and warm and my legs get tired and my back hurts... Half the time I don't bother.
Another big hurdle is the zipper. I have sewn several and every single one is wonky. 😩
The struggle is real with ADHD.
Have you tried either sewing the zipper completely by hand or at least hand baste it before taking it to the machine? I struggle with longer zippers like on dresses. Always funny in the lower part. But the last time I made a dress I tried hand basting it first and the zipper came out great.
@@katinkasirena yes I agree 👍 💯 with the basting step!
I often think ahead to when the next perfect opportunity for handsewing/ripping will be (watching TV, RPG night) and I try to be prepared by having my sewing project ready. When my hands are working I'm snacking less, so it's a win-win...
Also: I meet with a friend to sew, usually on fridays after work. Or I have a zoom meeting with another friend to chat while doing some chores - she will be ironing hltheir laundry, I might be seamripping or cutting fabric.
It's a date, it's in my calendar.
Thank you so much for this video! It is so helpful - and it’s all common sense! Things I could have thought of on my own if I didn’t let myself first be overcome with the anxiety of starting again after years of not sewing! But I needed someone to verbalize it for me! Ha! I used to really be quite good - I tailored wool coats and wool suit jackets and dresses in high school and lots of other things and I want to do that again. I have a couple of Rubbermaid tubs of fabric and need to get busy! I don’t care for many of patterns out there today but so many of the 60’s patterns I have from my high school years are still stylish today, and I still have those plus have so many from eBay and Etsy. Gotta get busy!!!
Thanks again!
🥰
My biggest delay tactic, not fear, is I want to lose at least 10 lbs before fitting any pattern to myself. Sounds so easy...:)))
Come on Sandi…I’ve got 10kg (maybe even 15kg) to loose. How about we just make something which looks good on us now and we can call it our “practice” dress….then we can remake the same pattern when we shift the weight? We can be soon-to-be-slimmer sewing buddies. 👊🏻
Wow! This isn't just a help for sewing. It's a guide to life. Any activity will be better following these ideas. Thank you.
I find my fear is cutting out the yardage for curtains. However many times I measure the lengths don't come out exactly the same.
One tip for getting started at the machine is having a simple thing waiting by the machine like new towels or tea towels which need tape loops so they can be hung up on hooks. It just gets me in the mood.
Thanks for all your suggestions!
Great ideas, have it all in a cart or in a box, have it all together. Because I don't have a sewing room, I would have to unpack everything and clean up after.
Barrier 1 is definitely a reason why I don't use my machine often and I only use my iron when absolutely necessary because they're on different floors, but I've got most of my hand sewing stuff in a rolling set of drawers that I can shove around the living room to be near wherever I feel like sitting to do my sewing, and if I want to, I've got a folding fabric box I can put scissors, pincushion, thread, thimble and project into if I want to do my hand-sewing somewhere not on my main floor. My addendum to Barrier 1 is that yeah it only takes a few min to get the machine and notions all out but it takes me half an hour to find tablespace for the machine (sometimes I just use it on the floor because I can't muster the energy to clear off the table or desk). And yesterday I ironed a seam flat on the little sleeve ironing board on the bathroom counter because the big ironing board makes too much noise when I open and close it and my husband was sleeping in the next room. Do what you've gotta do!
I try to make new and different mistakes with each garment I make. Sometimes I go back and fix it, sometimes I leave it as a physical learning reminder :)
My best tip for surmounting the barriers is to identify your specific barriers and put some thought into how you can streamline things. Is the problem fitting? I spent an hour on a zoom call with a friend telling me where I needed to stick pins and draw lines in a princess seam mockup. Definitely time not wasted, as I've now got two decent garments from that pattern and plans for more!
And I like to listen to tv shows with the described video while I hand sew, then I can follow the story without looking at the screen all the time.
I hate the noise of my machines and am terrible at maintaining clear horizontal space for setting up the machine or cutting patterns, so while I continue to attempt to get my life in order so that I can maintain a clear horizontal surface somewhere in the house, I do a lot of hand sewing instead, I find it way more calming and meditative than using my machines. I have designated the top of my rabbit's cage to be the home of my cardboard fold-out cutting table liner, and certain easily-moved things are allowed to gather there that can be easily relocated and returned when I need the space to cut out fabric. My ironing board lives on a different floor, so I work with a lot of flannel and linen where ironing is optional (linen can be hand-creased and flannel won't take a crease if you got the gods' blessing on it), and if I can't just avoid ironing, I sew strategically so I don't have to run up and down the stairs twelve times to iron after every seam. I hand sew in the rabbit's space and must keep stray threads and fabric scraps from being ingested so I've got a container in the bottom drawer of my drawers on wheels that all loose threads and small scraps go into, and a bag under the pillow I usually sit on when I stitch where bigger scraps can go so the rabbit doesn't steal them. I've got a stack of little plastic totes maybe twice the size of a shoebox) to safely contain mokcup fabric, post-project scraps sorted by fabric content, mockups, and all the tools threads and yarns (I do leather work, crocheting, tablet weaving and sock darning too) that don't fit in the drawers.
One of my biggest obstacles is that my sewing place is literally at my dining table. Now, there's no way to change that (bedroom has terrible lighting and no space anywhere else). But I am considering some different storage solutions for fabric and supplies (I also do bead embroidery, there's a lot) so it's not just... taking over the corner in the living room as it is now, lol.
My biggest hang up is getting a fit right. Being off the charts of the Big Four Brands, and across 3 different sizes of the independent brand I go with, not to mention some serious body image issues, makes finding the proper fit a massive challenge
That's meee🙄🤣!Thank you,thank you!🥰
Thank you so much. I'm a beginner so fear is a thing. Today I got going and discovered I needed supplies to finish something but got all the way through the cutting and prep part. When my stuff arrives I can fly through it. Thanks :)
Perfect timing! Great advice. I just needed this.
My big obstacle is pinning and cutting patterns.
I hate the process, as I just want to sit down and start sewing. The solution I found - and I know I'm not the first to think of this, lol - is to press, pin and cut my pattern pieces one day and set it all aside. Then I'm ready to go the next day I have available to devote to sewing. Somehow, just knowing my pieces are cut and waiting on me, makes it a joy to begin.
A thing that helps me, is setting time in my schedule, and plan what to make. I take the time needed for my sewing projects, and knit while watching tv.
I will say, that giving me a scheduled time for sewing, helps me a lot. I use the time for planning, doing research and purchase the things needed for the project, as well as sewing.
It’s also very nice , when you are told, that what you’ve just finished, is a thing you can be proud of.
Keep up the good work , and keep sewing 🪡🧵
really great! especially the parts about knowing what project to do next and worrying about messing up the next thing. I tend to either have no ideas at all, or so many things I want to make that it's hard to choose which one to do first lol I also worry about messing up (especially with my more expensive fabric) but I'm starting to realize/have more confidence in the skills I already have
Yes you do!! 😀
Love your videos! Very practical tips!
Such fabulous advice not just for sewing but other pastimes and hobbies. I really liked the idea of leaving notes on where you are on your project, I really need to start doing this. Thank you.
I actually have a room that is supposed to be my sewing room. The problem it is on the main floor of the house and has been used for a storage room while I have had a long illness. And all my sewing equipment is in the basement. The problem is I have limited mobility, I can't go get everything and set it up as a sewing room and motivating my family to do this for me is like pulling teeth.
When I got sick my sewing room became a dumping ground. Don’t know what to do with it just put it in the sewing room! It took a while to get through all the stuff. I found if I asked for help in general I didn’t get it but if I asked for one thing I did. They were willing to give me a few minutes to move or carry something. I just had to remember not to overwhelm them!
@Robin The Parttime Sewer That's a good idea. When I get out of hospital and rehab I think I will ask for help for 15 or 30 minutes at a time. I will set a timer. There is a lot that can be done in that amount of time and if its only that long, I think they will be more focused
@@VoodooAngel63 glad to help. I hope that you have a speedy recovery!
@Robin The Parttime Sewer thank you
Renee Hansen What state or country do you live, I could help.
I have always taped my pattern instructions on the wall right in front of me when I’m sitting at my machine so I’m not ruffling through piles of stuff for my instructions. Then, as I complete a step, I put a check mark next to it right on the instructions. I know right where I am at a glance this way.
Tidying helps. I’m
Not a naturally organised person but I cannot see in unorganized chaos, it must be organized chaos
My biggest barrier is my toddler and my newborn! Although I know that my time will come and I will have more time when they are older.
Just not in a season of life with lots of sewing time at the moment. I try to get 30 mins in on the nights thru go to sleep at the same time
There is a time and season for everything...a time to sew...
I had just made six totes for six different projects so everything for that particular project is at one place. Next I’ll have to cut all the pieces for that project and have it all together. This will help me when I feel the urge to sew. (My machine then only need threading before sewing.) Hopefully this will make my sewing more easy accessible.
When I’m stuck for the next project, I usually re-organize my wardrobe and see what can be improved or added.
Yeah I have sewing lock syndrome , I keep telling myself I got no one to make anything for or I tell myself I need more materials before I start , any excuse works!
Great tips! You know me too well.
My favorite tip is to know the steps and make notes of what is next. I sometimes can't get back to sewing for weeks and I spend too much time trying to remember where I was last time. This will be a wonderful time saver!
Well first of all, I need that wrist pin cushion before I start my next project...
omg there is a video! ruclips.net/video/5HHnLAWM9EE/видео.html
When it comes to things that are hard to sew or that are small repairs, I just do it by hand slowly while listening to a podcast. I underrated handsewing for very long. It's an easy set up and you can work without creating noise, relax, listen to music...
I love your videos. I have a block right now because I can't decide what custom style I will create for my friend. I just need to sit down and plan it out. Maybe even buy a pattern instead of creating my own for this one. (Kpop inspired skater outfit)
I feel so called out lol though I have now started sewing I am showing me learning to sew on my RUclips channel but this video is brilliant
Great video! So true about all of it. I have all those barriers and I am trying to overcome them. I'm working on fixing up a space for all my sewing equipment right now. I've sorted the different items (elastics, zippers, measuring tools, etc.) and have to get a cabinet to store all of it. And then I have to actually just sew something! I have a fear of messing it up but I just have to do it!!!!! Thanks for the great advice!
Well, I just started sewing (not counting that skirt in middle/jr high school). I was afraid to get started, but a few classes helped.
Hello from Canada! 🇨🇦 Thank you for this wonderful and invaluable video! I have been trying to get back into sewing after a very long absence. I'm finding that the old problems I used to have with sewing barriers have been haunting my attempt to restart. I'm so glad that I'm not the only one who has these problems and I love all the solutions you have come up with. I have been working on using those suggestions by reorganizing my sewing space and the way I think about sewing. Really enjoy your videos and especially your thrift hauls!
One thing that slows me down is having to buy, print and tape together patterns (or, buy and wait forever for them to be shipped to the bottom of the world).
So my solution to this is to make myself the undergarments I’ll be going on with (and I did just finish a new corset, which I prefer over a bra), and then make a bodice block off that, so I can then easily draft myself new patterns by just changing the basic bodice block where necessary. Much cheaper than buying patterns, and I’d have to do for adjustments to the pattern anyway, might as well do it once for a block, and then never again.
I'm working on that as well! A bodice block is a bit intimidating to work on, but once you see what wizardry can be done to make whatever you like from them, it's quite motivating!
Not to mention that standard patterns need massive amounts of adjustments for me anyway, being a non-standard shape. A fitting bodice block pattern would be the ultimate convenience.
@@Rhaifha for learning about the wizardry (seriously, just learning how to take a bodice block and manipulate the darts into so many different styles), I highly recommend Bianca from The Closet Historian. She’s the one that got me thinking to make a bodice block to begin with.