20 Sewing Secrets You Wish You Knew!
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 8 фев 2025
- 20 Sewing Secrets You Wish You Knew!
// I am sharing 20 sewing secrets/facts/things/truths that I have learned through my sewing journey that I wish I knew at the start.
This video is not sponsored but I did receive PR items in exchange for a mention.
Get your own phone case - use my code to get a discount
Link: www.blancspace...
Code: CLAIRE20
Subscribe, like, comment and share to support the channel.
If you would like to support financially I would love you foreverrrr. You can click the thanks button under my video or find me on www.ko-fi.com/...
Thank you for watching. I appreciate each one of you!
Great sewing advice here! I began sewing as a teenager because money was tight. I can see how much more expensive it has become in present day. ☹️
Claire you look younger and glowing with each video. I always enjoy your videos. Thank you so much. xxx
Thank you! Younger looking and glowing are great things to achieve!
Hi Claire, you are looking great! Nice to hear from you on RUclips. I have to do some sewing so these tips will help...it's been a while for me.
You make the best videos, it's always so clear that you do your research on things and really share yourself with your viewers/friends. I know we all love what you do. Thank you Clare!
Thanks Lita xx
This is all great, basic information. When I began sewing in the 60’s, there was a huge difference in the cost between homemade garments and ready to wear. The development of fast fashion made sewing your own clothes much less appealing from a financial point of view. Now, I sew because I enjoy it and I absolutely hate shopping 😂!
I wish I was sewing in the 60s lol
The cost factor has indeed shifted. Now the difference is quality of fabric, fit, and construction.
Oh Claire, I hear you on the self 😢. I became a phlebotomist, for 6 months I was terrible, uncertain, incompetent. One day I realised I had been criticising, bad mouthing and destroying mySelf, there is NO such thing as 'constructive' criticism. Well, I started using Louise Hayes, You Can Heal Your Life. It helped me to support, encourage and inspire myself. The improvement was overnight, I became a very good phlebo. Thanks for the reminder, your help in all matters, as well as sewing is pretty vital, valuable and appreciated
Lovely to see you looking so well Claire, thanks for the advice,
Thank you Mary!
Right on, sweet Claire! You nailed it.
Sewing is a skill to master -- I have been sewing for many years and still have not mastered the art . . . but I keep plugging away at it.
Basting will make life easier -- Amen!
A pattern is a template -- You said it!
Sewing is not the cheaper option -- RTW doesn't fit well so I am now a me-made gal.
Using the right needle -- Yes!
Changing the needle after every project -- Good grief, no!
Following your tips -- No more big fat tears!!
Fun and informative video -- Yes!
Subscribe, like, share, and comment -- Yes, yes, yes!
Bye for now.
Great information … as a +size lady myself I have also found that there are pattern Co’s that provide measurements other than the basic bust, waist, hip, such as calf, thigh, upper arm etc and for me, they are a massive aid when fitting to your own shape.
Also, I found the sewing jargon confusing, especially on RUclips when the vloggers cross continents … that is also a great asset too, but sometimes the terminology varies
Thank you so much for this video…….just made my first dress in 40 years! …..it took me a whole day just to cut the pattern out 🙈😂 so glad I took my time with it though. You’re an inspiration 🙏
You do save money if you compare your garments to high end garments. If you are comparing to cheaply made garments that use low quality fabric you are not only comparing apples to oranges, you are comparing apples to dragon fruit ( that was the most expensive exotic fruit that I could think of).
If money is tight, then you are better off buying second hand quality clothes.
You really save money sewing home dec items, for example decorative pillow covers. Even using expensive fabric, you can get at 2 pillowcovers or more depending on what you back them with compared to pillow covers that start at $20 each.
I compare the clothes I sew to the clothes I buy from rtw. Those are at the cheaper end so it doesn’t pay to sew my own. That said, there’s a lot of benefits to dressmaking that those cheap garments cannot offer such as bespoke fitted pieces.
So true. My mother always said quality over quantity. That was a hard concept for a youngster. Then I became her.
I always felt that my sewing is a hobby but such a practical one over other hobbies I have. My aim is to sew a nicer fitting pants for the older body. Ready to wear is for the younger body and us older bodies don't want our clothes so ill fitting and hanging unattractively. Home sewing is the way to go even if more expensive for fabrics.
Tools you NEED: good sheers, seam ripper, 6” ruler. I also love having a good sewing machine and a wonderful Babylock Victory serger.
Great advice!
Love it wish this advice was around when I started sewing a long time ago but now I know better thank you 😊😊
Danke!
Thank you ☺️
When batch sewing and pressing, handling is also critical. I carefully lay pieces on a plastic tray for transporting between work areas, carefully lifting and placing each piece. Beginners are often not yet aware that picking up and pulling cut pieces by a point or an edge will stretch the edges that are on the bias. I often add stay stitching one thread width into then steam allowance while checking against te paper pattern to help prevent stretching. Typically, bias doesn’t fray, but it does stretch and isn’t easily returned to the original shape it had before cutting. I sometimes mark the stitching line with chalk, add stay stitching,and then cut the shape.
Great advice totally agree
Great video…I’m getting better but boy did I find myself hitting roadblocks at the beginning and wanted to give up. First, reading commercial patterns made me feel like an ignorant fool. I learned to put down the instructions…take a fifteen minute break, and come back to it with fresh eyes. Also, while capable of sewing quickly now, I find I enjoy going slow and deliberately while at my sewing machine. Each garment comes out much nicer when taking my time. Thank you for all you do for us Claire to help us become better sewists ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you, what a lovely comment. Sewing clothes is definitely a skill to master!
I've been sewing for decades and I still can't figure out commercial patterns. They're too hard to follow and never ever fit. So I make my own patterns. I cheat. I just trace clothes that I already have onto packing paper. I reuse the same patterns over and over. When they get worn out, I just trace them onto new paper.
@@lisalamphier1410 thank you! Those darn patterns are beyond frustrating! Instructions are very vague and illustrations not much better. you’ve given me the motivation to do the same and true my own patterns! I have two tops that I have literally worn so frequently over the years that they have become threadbare. I’ve saved them to deconstruct and trace my own pattern from them. They’re very simple design and knit. I’m going to try it this weekend . So pleased to hear it really does work to do this! Thank you! I really loathe the commercial patterns 😂
As soon as I buy ANY fabric (it can be time consuming) but it is a habit I’ve got into, I overlock the edges (except for fabrics that don’t fray) and wash it straight away.
That way I always have fabric ready and if for any reason (if it’s one that frays) and it’s not overlocked I know it’s not been washed.
I do not have any unwashed fabric 😂.
That story you told about being utterly defeated by altering a sewing pattern resonated so much. I recently went through something like that before I realised that gaping pockets was the nature of the pattern I was using. So many factors come into play when using a pattern!
Almost everything i need to sew fits into a cigar box. I have a sewing machine but i seldom use it and only for tedious things like curtains and tote bags. Clothing i sew completely by hand because i can sew anywhere, take it with me anywhere. Just throw it in a bag with the cigar box and I'm all set. It's great to have something to do with my hands when I'm visiting or having to sit and wait. (And much healthier than smoking. 😂) I also like to sew in bed with my feet propped up watching a movie. Hand sewing is very precise and very forgiving. I don't change the needles on my machine because it's 142 years old and i have very few needles 😂, but i don't really find that it's a problem. I thrift all of my material, thread etc. i save buttons from old clothes. If i had to buy new, i couldn't sew. Money is very tight, as in, i use a clothesline, tight. But no, I'm not sewing with bedsheets! Heaven forbid! I find beautiful, quality fabric at local yard sales and flea markets. I recently bought a whole box of 40 year old fabric for $5, still in new condition. I love every bit of it. Some beautiful Cranston prints in gorgeous colors. I also bought some homemade curtains and reused the material in my (now favorite) dress. I can get whole bags of partially used thread for as little as $1. Money should never be a deterrent from sewing. If you have no money at all, you can put the word out that you're looking for free sewing supplies. Lots of people collect fabric and then lose interest in sewing and they're happy to see someone else get use from it. No it's not the same as picking it out at the store because you never know what you're going to find, but that's part of the fun, finding curtains in a nice fabric and thinking, this would make a nice dress! (I paid $1).
I love your attitude to sewing! ❤️
I am still on a quest to find Indian Head fabric. It was a good substitute for linen.
I’ve found loads of gorgeous fabrics in second hand shops 😍 like curtains, duvet covers, men’s shirts (that I’m gonna make into a ladies top), loads of other clothes that I can use the material for tops etc & the other day I found a gorgeous plain pink (my fav colour 😁) quilted duvet cover 😁 I grabbed it straight away lol 😂 it’s going to be a jacket for me whoohoo can’t wait till the pattern comes 😂 xx
One last comment... hand sewing a problem on my grandson's messenger bag is the answer, cheers mate 🎉❤
I am watching and giggling because I have been sewing for 50+ years and I identify with all of your tips!
By the way Claire, I haven't watched your videos in awhile (focusing on US politics and vintage sewing machine repairs) and you are looking fabulous! You look rested and refreshed. I hope this means wonderful things have been happening in your life. Take care.
Thank you. Life has certainly changed. Look at my most recent video to see my weight loss progress as this video was a little while back.
In every one of your videos you say at least like eight things that speak to my soul. I come for the great sewing advice/stories, but I stay for the random unexpected philosophically insightful moments 😅😅
Love to hear that!!
Thank you Claire for your excellent presentations. I’ve been sewing since I was about 15 and am 75 now. I’m still making mistakes but I haven’t given up. I’m glad you are so honest.
Hi its good to see you again you look great (I hope you feel great too). Like the tip about drawing the sewing line on the fabric.What you said about sizing we can also apply the same tip when buying clothes too. As your normal size in one item maybe different in another depending on the manufacturer. Ive now got to point I think who knows that Ive got to go up a size, only I would anyway.
omg I’m about 3 different sizes depending on what shop I go to 🤔 I started sewing 🧵 at school in the 70’s , then got my own machine, went to a sewing college, & worked in 2 sewing factories 🏭 but all that was back in the 80’s just started sewing 🧵 again making my own clothes etc & loving it 😍 xxx
Interesting summary- all so true. I make a lot of clothes and my motivation is largely to “complete the garment, start the next one” because I feel under pressure from my plans and stash. However I am trying to shift my focus to actually enjoying the process more and taking my time to more appreciate the skills I am gaining and the garments I am making. Thank you Claire- great to see you looking so well. Hope you get back to sewing soon. 😊 Lynne
Great video Claire. Lots of very useful information. You look wonderful❤️
Thanks!
Thank you
I love listening to you Claire. You are so "real" thank you.
Love It😊
Thanks for these essential and helpful tips
With respect to cutting nd sewing on grain, it is important to make sure that the design was printed on grain.
Yes for sure - but if its a busy pattern you may get away with it being slightly off, or if a plain fabric obviously okay.
I’ve never understood the grain thing 😞 & can never tell what way is what 🤔😞 xx
Thank you so much, you’re amazing with all your advice and I for one really appreciate you!
Very good points!!!
Such common sense advise - all so true 💐
Thank you!
You look great Claire, love it! 🤗👏
Love your videos--thanks for the great advice!
I don't sew for saving money but for better fabrics and better "fashion", better fitted to my needs and feelings. And I love to be creative. Best antidepressiva ever! ❤
Thank you so much for your time in making this video. I have learnt so much from it, and I have been sewing for years. X
More videos please in all aspects of dresmaking sewing everything I really enjoy your vlogs....... I left school 50 odd years ago , oh my goodness that sounds vintage ..... and trained as a seamstress, that sounds vintage as well 😂😂😂, anyway lost my interest as making dresses / skirts for myself didn't fit oneway or another I made mistakes and got disheartened, I am a bit of a perfectionist, its the same with knitting and crocheting, I was taught to do it right the first time ,which h has stuck with me ,ummm , anyway thank you for sharing look forward to the next vlog ,take care ❤❤
Outstanding video!!! I’ve experienced some of the same issues you’ve described. Great work; keep it up.
Great video. Thank you for the information your giving us. It will help.
Thank you for this video, clever ideas!
Sizing: Ready-to-wear clothing from different manufacturers is not the same. From company A I can wear a certain size and it's loose. From company B I can wear the same size...and I struggle to get it on!
Just starting to sew have an old singer computerized sewing machine and new janome serger it all seems too big to get my head around everything but I am trying to thanks for video bernadette
Watch some of my serger videos to help you
I know it won't be cheaper, but it will fit better and it will last longer.
The cheap clothes I buy usually breaks in a while! 😑
You really don’t need lots of stitches for quilting ..blanket stitch or zigzag for appliqué .. straight stitch .. maybe wavy line ..
Do you make anything nowadays? Just curious.
Its a good question! I havent since my marriage fell apart last September. My home has been half packed to leave for some time so cannot sew right now (plus focusing on my mental and physical health). I do plan on sewing once I have moved.
@@Penguinandpear oh, sorry to hear about that. I had no idea. Best wishes, you've got this.
Thank you 🤩
My sewing machine only does straight stitches. 99.9% of ALL of my stitches...are straight stitches! On the rare times I need something else, I just get out my sewing needle and use that. So...I could spend a couple hundred dollars on a sewing machine that does one stitch and does it REALLY well, or I could spend $700 or more on a sewing machine that can do 100 different stitches, and probably 97 or 98 of them I won't ever have a reason to use. So far, I have only had ONE time when I needed something other than a straight stitch.
Drawing a line to follow to assist you in keeping a seam straight? Isn't that what CHALK is for? Every seam I make I start by drawing a chalk line. I have to. The throat plate on my sewing machine is blank. It has no gauge lines at all. It's just a really, really basic machine. There is no 'reverse button' on it. So, the first thing I do when I'm doing setup for sewing is drawing chalk lines to guide my stitching. My mum's sewing machine was the same way...a blank throatplate and no reverser button. I didn't even know there even WAS such a thing as measuring markers on throatplates till I saw a sewing machine at Uni that had them! They also have markers that you can use that just wash out when you put the garment thru it's first wash. I have one presser foot. You know what? I'll go to haberdashery when I need another presser foot and get one when I need it. I'll probably have to bring my presser foot off my machine with me.
Advice: don’t buy cheap thread. It will break under pressure.
Thanks!