72 year old man here trying sewing again for the first time since I was a very young man. I want to alter my second hand clothing purchases. Wonderful and practical advise that makes sense and will be helpful. Thank you
Yeah … you’re very awesome sewing and adjusting your second hand clothing ! 👍👍👍 I wish my guy would have your attitude instead of asking me . Or spending money to get it altered . He’s never touched a needle and thread until couple of years ago when he brought his shirt to me to reattach a button ….finally I said please …it is an easy thing to do , let me show you so you can look after it when it happens to detach again. My brothers never bothered my mother or me with stuff like that. When I see a man sewing , I am impressed . So I applaud you at 72 giving this a shot again .
All great advice! When my mom taught me to sew actual finished pieces, she first gave me a piece of paper with a bunch of lines on it, and I sewed those without thread to follow the line. When I got that, she gave me paper with corners to navigate, and eventually curves. I was young and thought it was pretty cool to use one of her machines for that, and it gave me a lot of practice.
That’s exactly the method I teach in my beginner class🙂. It helps so much. Your mom was a great teacher ❤️ I also suggest practicing without paper (presser foot up) for a bit just to get used to the pedal-learning how to sew slowly!
A city mouse here. I suffer from misophonia. As a result of no music in your video I was able to hear, understand and, be relaxed while hearing the education you were disseminating to me and the global community. Please, continue to keep your videos and music free. You're awesome and, a great teacher.
@@prettysimplesara I agree with the commenter about the music issue. I enjoyed listening to your information so much more than I do from many other videos I’ve seen. Some are just so loud that I find it distracting from the content. I’m a beginner (I have been sewing for a year), so I’m learning as much as I can. I live with a rock musician who plays 3 instruments. So I’m not opposed to loud music. Just not while I am trying to learn something and need to hear the information. To reiterate the commenters request, please continue with your current format, it’s a refreshing and appreciated experience. 🦋
@@tammyjohnson8150I’m so glad. I know adding a music is something that is often talked about as another step, but I personally cannot focus when there’s competing audio either! I’m glad the lack of music is helpful to you too 😊
That's pretty cool. I'm going to be teaching my students sewing. Maybe I'll do the tape trick with all the painter's tape my supervisor accidentally bought
Ok, I've loved this car metaphor for ages and require my kids to be able to sew a bit on a machine before they can drive my car. Both the sewing the straight line and understanding how the pedal works quite a lot like driving.
I'm no beginner - have been sewing for 60 years on and off. But I have had several yards of fabric sitting around for months because I dont have the confidence to sew long straight hems to make curtains. Perhaps now I can take a deep breath, check the driving mirror and set off, adapting your seam instructions to hem those curtains. Wish me luck!
Very helpful!! I always struggle w the 1/4 inch seam. I’ve tried the feet but not great. Having the tape out front has really helped. So easy, so effective. Thank you!
I just found your channel today & subscribed 😀 I’m 62 trying to learn how to sew. My mother didn’t have the patience to teach me, my hope is to learn enough to share it with those I love . Your channel is truly a blessing.
@AngeliqueStevens - Here is an off-topic, but similar, technique for drawing a straight line. - - - - * Put a light dot on your paper where you want the line to end. * Put the pencil at the point where the line starts. * Then draw, looking ONLY at that far dot, NOT your hand or pencil. * This will help you improve the very first time you try. .^_^.
oh me too. I always have my seam ripper out whenever I sew because I know I'm going to need it. :( And I've quit many times because I wasn't given basic tips when I learnt how to sew in my teens.
Now Sara that is the sort of advice that every sewer should have been given but weren't!!! Thank you. And thanks for the chuckle at nobody will honk at you if you sew slowly. Love that.
This is soooo blommin' useful! I even have washi tape that I got because it was pretty but didn't know what to do with it, HAH! This is perfect timing for this tip!
I like the way you explained the logic behind this tip. When I first began to sew when I was seven, (I'm 53 now) I couldn't couldn't follow the lines on the metal plate because I couldn't see them so ended up putting masking take on my moms machine just like this.
Thank you for these clear explanations and valuable tips! I've been sewing since I was twelve (am 76 now) and your car driving analogy is the best instruction ever. Thank you, Sara.
Thanks so much!!💗before my mama passed she had wrecked her car (ran under her a semi truck) and she tried to drive but was terrified to do so. I encouraged her to try she then had a hard time… when I asked her why she was having trouble keeping the car in the middle of the road she said “ it was harder on my car” then she explained that she was taught to center the car emblem on the hood (in the middle) was supposed to lined up with “right” side of the road!! Can’t believe I never thought of this!! Thankssssssss oh I’m only 72 learned to sew by myself over the phone with a friend lolol
My mom taught me to guide the fabric from the edge of the sewing machine table for long seams ... tiny adjustments keep it going straight. And she was making choir robes so I had miles of seams to do.
I just 'found' you today and don't know how I missed you before! I've been sewing for over 57 years and your tips make so much (common) sense in the sewing world. I have subscribed and know that I will be watching everything I can find with you. Thanks for posting such a wonderful video.
I learned to sew back in the 1960s on a cast iron, black Singer sewing machine (1947 model) . The machine went forward and backward and had no lines engraved on either side of the presser foot for gauging seam allowance widths. It had a narrow feed dog area with a 1/4” wide presser foot. It always made beautiful stitches on every fabric, chiffon to thick denim. I had no problem sewing straight. I had been watching my mother sew 5/8” and 1/4” seam allowances for years, so I began sewing what I thought was a 5/8” seam allowance and found out I was pretty darn accurate. The more I sewed, the more accurate I became by just gauging the amount of fabric that was on the right side of the presser foot. Of course sewing the 1/4” seam allowance was very easy because you sewed with the raw edge against the right side of the presser foot. When I purchased a more modern sewing machine with wider apart feed dogs, a wider presser foot and engravings on the needle plate I noticed that the sewing machine, though a good one, did not sew every fabric quite as easily and sewing curves was more of a challenge, but I loved the other things this new machine could do-zig-zag, buttonholes, decorative sewing. I learned new ways to handle the fabric as the machine sewed. I kept on improving my skills at cutting and sewing different garments, tailoring and pattern alterations. I love sewing and ended up setting up a studio where I taught children and adults to sew on and off for about 30 years. I now have a very fancy, top-of-the-line sewing machine that has a 9mm wide feed dog area, a 9mm wide presser foot with dual feeding. This machine also embroiders. I still sew mainly garments and I love my big machine, but I recently purchased an industrial sewing machine that only sews straight stitches and goes forward and backward. I find myself gravitating to the straight stitch machine more and more for garment sewing. It is so much easier to sew, handle the fabric and especially when sewing curves. I also find that when I sew on this machine or my Singer featherweight with no seam allowance markings that I am able to gauge seam allowances easily and accurately, just like my teenage years when I was learning to sew. You can gauge any and all seam allowance widths with practice. In fact, sometimes the engraved line gets in the way in sewing curves with wider presser feet. You need to look on the right of the middle of the presser foot where the needle pierces the fabric to make sure that the seam allowance stays the same width as in the straighter areas. Sewing is all about accuracy and judgement. Happy sewing, y’all!
I’ve never seen your videos before. I’m teaching five friends how to sew. This will be a nice reminder for them. I can send this to them between our sessions. Thank you so much. Subscribed.
This is the best video I every watched and you are brilliant and meticulous at guiding a beginner like myself. I am now more confident than ever, thank you🎉
I've been sewing since I was 15 years old and probably would consider myself to be an advance beginner 😄at age 56. I have been guilty of all of these and learned so much! Thank you!
I have sewn for 70 some years, but now I do use a seam guide because macular degeneration is robbing me of sight and it distorts things. I just got my Bernina 1130 cleaned and tuned up to keep going for as long as I do. It is my favorite possession of all time, above all other things by a mile. It has always done everything I have ever asked of it and more. When I die, she goes to my granddaughter who could also use it for a lifetime because it is the greatest machine ever made, say the dealers who take care of her. She has realiably made money for me when times were hard, helped me grow as a designer, and performed flawlessly when I needed a contest winner. She’s the one constant in my life that has never failed me.
This was excellent. I haven’t used a machine in decades and inherited my grandmother’s machine. I needed a refresher. Your cues are perfect. Thank you. I’m so glad your video came up on my feed.
I am so glad that you came up in my feed. My middle daughter wants to learn how to sew. She watched me while she was growing up and now wants to make things. Since we don’t live in the same city, I will tell her about your channel so she can watch
Thank you so much for sharing these tips! I’m a beginner and for some mysterious reason have a hard time sewing in straight lines. I could never have imagined that would be difficult as I have pretty good fine motor skills. But, low and behold, here I am, trying to keep my seams straight 😁.
Thank you for your advice. I will definitely be putting it into practice, especially not sewing too fast, but at a speed that is comfortable for me. Love "no one will honk at me for sewing slowly".
Getting ready to thread & use my new mini sewing machine for the very first time ever (using a machine) This was so helpful! I love the analogies & the clear cut, to the point, thorough info!! Thanks sew much! 😁🙏🏼
Thank you for the great and patient information. I have done some garment sewing on and off for years and commonly struggle with going straight, your insights will make a big difference.
New to sewing and I always questioned the magnetic tools. Any tool is only as good as the operator. This is amazing advice! You are a good teacher! Thank you.
I’ve had my sewing machine for about three years and I’m still new. Because I get so discouraged that I don’t know what I’m doing. My fabric gets stuck down in the machine where the feet are and I don’t understand why I don’t know what number I should have the feet on to grab the fabric. I don’t know the tension I have problems and you are the first person I came along you today, you are the very first person that I have felt like I truly understand and show how you work with not just showing songs over the videos you sit there and take the time to explain and I mean I appreciate that. I know you’re the one for me and thank you for being there and sharing what you do. I was wondering if you could talk about the tension on what number it should be on. When you should change the tension or what width you’re supposed to use for your zigzag lines, straight lines all the lines? Again thank you.
Check out my link. One of my videos here is about tension (I’ll try to link in a minute). In terms of length of stitches, around 2.5-3 on the stitch length setting is good for a lot of things. The stitch width for the zigzag depends on what you are sewing/making.
Here’s just the tension video - ruclips.net/video/hSM_q6i_jag/видео.htmlsi=XZVOSJvmQRZz864K I don’t have a video about stitch length yet here on RUclips, but I’ll put it on the list. Don’t give up!
I think the hardest part is taking our time, seems to slow comparing to the tutorials. Thank you so much for the words! I’m certainly going to try the wash tape hack!
Ah, thanks a bunch! I'm making a few bowl cozies for my friend to sell at her store and just knew I'd have to learn to sew in a straight line now that I'm making something for the first time that's intended to be sold. This takes a bunch of stress off my shoukders, thanks a bunch!
Excellent tips! I just bought one of those magnetic seam guides in an effort to improve my seam allowance, but I think I need to focus more on the user (me!!). Thanks Sara!
Thanks Michelle!! I just recently started piecing with a regular foot, but moved my needle over to the right. Fabric covers more of the feed dogs with the same 1/4 inch seam that way. Bit of playing to get it right, but it’s been a good switch. Easier to stay straight with our narrow seams. Love your tutorials ❤️👍🙂
Wow. THANK you. Simple fixes, I suppose, but as a beginner with no guide, I must admit that they never occurred to me. I think they will be very helpful; thank you so much! Subscribed 🙂
Just learning to sew on a repaired hand-me-down. Top tier advice! I was definitely looking at the needle and over-steering! Will put these tips to use tonight while I play with remnants… :D
I’m so glad this showed up in my recommended. I’ve only been sewing for two months or so and bought a seam guide to help but even using it my lines aren’t straight. I look forward to trying these tips out tomorrow!
Super!! While I have advanced skills in several crafts, sewing has always seemed impossible to me because I can't sew a straight seam to save my soul. You've given me hope!
My first sewing machine will arrive today and I will carry these tips with me for as long as I use a sewing machine, which I am hoping will be a very long time. Thank you.
Thank you for the detailed information, instructions, & advice, i prefer them so much more than the fast short videos these days. Your channel is a gem ❤
Thanks so much for the great tips Sara. It’s nice to know that there are so many others out there with the same problem. I loved the tip about sowing slowly. The sewing videos we watch on RUclips give the impression that everyone is sewing so quickly and you think you’re the only one who can’t. Better to take your time. It’s not a race.
Thank you for this video. I'm a beginner at sewing with a machine and these tips are very helpful so I can start off on the right foot. Honestly, my machine is quite intimidating right now but I know with time and practice I'll be okay. I'll definitely be checking out your other videos to see what extra gems I can pick up that I'm missing right now. Subscribed!
Thank you! You might want to check out my learn to sew course, depending on where you are at (if you read the description you’ll be able to tell if you’re beyond it). My RUclips is just starting.
This video is a God send!!! Thank you for explaining this SO well. Using driving as the analogy for sewing was brilliant. I thank you and my future straight seams thank you, lol. 😊
What a great video , you managed to explain some pretty technical stuff in a nice non techie way and I love the driving analogy. I have put a servo motor on two of my machines to slow them down and sometimes on tricky stuff I am quite literaly putting stiches in one at a time and nobody honked at me.
This sounds like great advice. I’ve been using a sewing machine occasionally for many years and always struggle to keep a straight line. I’m sure that watching your video is going to greatly help me. The driving reference made so much sense. Thank you.
BRILLIANT tips and just what I need as a newbie. So thank you! Now I just need to go and practice practice practice. (Going slow actually isn't easy for me yet 😅 gotta learn to control my speed too.)
Wawwww, first time I see your channel, perfect video from beginning to the end , no BS, straight talk, I really appreciate it, thank you for sharing, and new subbie
Thanks Sara for going slow and explaining. I wanted to put slant pockets in a skirt. Tried several sites, but they went so fast, that I couldn’t follow. I’m no beginner, but some of them even a beginner couldn’t follow. By the way I’m 91 and just subscribed to your channel.
Thank you so much for this video. You’re a great teacher with sound advice that is both concise and memorable. You have built my confidence another step up in just 7 minutes and 12 seconds. Yep. You’re good! 🥰
My most recent video is all about tension🙂. Sewing machine tension - what it is and how to adjust it. Understanding what's happening is the key ruclips.net/video/hSM_q6i_jag/видео.html
Thank you so much Sara- I cant wait to try these. I've been really struggling with straight lines and I havent been able to figure out what Im doing wrong lol Im glad I saw this before I went out and bought all the gadgets. Thank you
I just bought a new machine to get back to stitching which I used to do in my younger days. I triec it today and my stitch lines went all crooked. So happy i found your wonderful and useful video today. Will try out your tips now. Thank you !
Thank you for presenting your points concisely and in a matter of fact way. Honest but not judgemental. That's just what I needed to know in order to improve, without the actual messages getting lost in rambling and unnecessary introduction for the sake of having introductions. I wish more videos on RUclips followed your style!
You are a wonderful humanbeing! Thank you! For experienced sewers these advice probably seem obvious. But for us pretty much still in the starting ditch; they are the gold at the end of the rainbow that we thought we`d never find. You make my life easier and lighter. 🙂
I’m 66 & I’ve always struggled to sew straight & on the rare occasions I have I’m pretty pleased with myself I haven’t had my machine out for years but thank to your wonderful advice ,tomorrow I’m going dust off the proverbial cobwebs find some fabric to play with and do it your way
Thank you so much for your tips, I struggle making straight lines and I now know it’s because I’m looking at the hood and tightly gripping the wheel. The washy tape is a great idea!
I could hardly wait to get to eight grade and get to take Home Economics class, mainly for the sewing. My mom had already given me opportunities on her Singer, so, I was amazed at the newbies that couldn’t do a constant speed, or do a straight line. Good memories with my friends 🤗
Oh god thank you so much for this video. Not only is it crucial & much-appreciated information, but the way you presented it is so refreshingly wonderful, simple, straight-forward, & easy to understand. Like your delivery itself has given me extra confidence. I just really appreciate it.
This is a good video While I can sew a straight line some months back. I was reading a sewing book that told you how to hold the material properly. I’ve never seen that in a book before I realise sometimes I hold material the way they said and sometimes I didn’t Now having practising and being consistent I can truely say what a difference
Wow, impressive! You deliver the information without nonsense, clearly and in basic language and terms novices can easily understand. I have been sewing for years (my wife gave me a sewing machine for Father's day on our anniversary 50 plus years ago) and I still found your wonderful refresher very useful.
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"No one will honk at you for sewing slowly" is a great merch slogan. :)
👍
I’m working on it. Stay tuned. 👍. I wouldn’t have realized how interested people might be without all the likes on your comment 🙂
@@prettysimplesara Noice!
@@angelbear_og I laughed out loud when she said that 😀 love it.
72 year old man here trying sewing again for the first time since I was a very young man. I want to alter my second hand clothing purchases. Wonderful and practical advise that makes sense and will be helpful. Thank you
That is awesome!
Yeah … you’re very awesome sewing and adjusting your second hand clothing ! 👍👍👍 I wish my guy would have your attitude instead of asking me . Or spending money to get it altered . He’s never touched a needle and thread until couple of years ago when he brought his shirt to me to reattach a button ….finally I said please …it is an easy thing to do , let me show you so you can look after it when it happens to detach again. My brothers never bothered my mother or me with stuff like that.
When I see a man sewing , I am impressed . So I applaud you at 72 giving this a shot again .
We forget some men are tailors and chefs!
All great advice! When my mom taught me to sew actual finished pieces, she first gave me a piece of paper with a bunch of lines on it, and I sewed those without thread to follow the line. When I got that, she gave me paper with corners to navigate, and eventually curves. I was young and thought it was pretty cool to use one of her machines for that, and it gave me a lot of practice.
That’s exactly the method I teach in my beginner class🙂. It helps so much. Your mom was a great teacher ❤️
I also suggest practicing without paper (presser foot up) for a bit just to get used to the pedal-learning how to sew slowly!
Smart mom!
Those are the exercises we had to do at school, a million years ago 😅
That’s how I taught as well.😊
@@thecarjacfulSame here 60 years ago.😂
A city mouse here. I suffer from misophonia. As a result of no music in your video I was able to hear, understand and, be relaxed while hearing the education you were disseminating to me and the global community. Please, continue to keep your videos and music free. You're awesome and, a great teacher.
I’m so glad it was helpful. I also edit my subtitles. Not perfectly, but better than the AI generated ones, if that’s an option.
@@prettysimplesara I agree with the commenter about the music issue. I enjoyed listening to your information so much more than I do from many other videos I’ve seen. Some are just so loud that I find it distracting from the content. I’m a beginner (I have been sewing for a year), so I’m learning as much as I can. I live with a rock musician who plays 3 instruments. So I’m not opposed to loud music. Just not while I am trying to learn something and need to hear the information. To reiterate the commenters request, please continue with your current format, it’s a refreshing and appreciated experience. 🦋
@@tammyjohnson8150I’m so glad. I know adding a music is something that is often talked about as another step, but I personally cannot focus when there’s competing audio either! I’m glad the lack of music is helpful to you too 😊
@@peppersantiago7995 lol Wonderful!
I’ve been a tailor for years and yes, we don’t sew super fast and we also use the tape trick. We use painters tape. Great tutorial ❤❤
Thank you :)
That's pretty cool. I'm going to be teaching my students sewing. Maybe I'll do the tape trick with all the painter's tape my supervisor accidentally bought
Ok, I've loved this car metaphor for ages and require my kids to be able to sew a bit on a machine before they can drive my car. Both the sewing the straight line and understanding how the pedal works quite a lot like driving.
Great minds think alike!
I'm no beginner - have been sewing for 60 years on and off. But I have had several yards of fabric sitting around for months because I dont have the confidence to sew long straight hems to make curtains. Perhaps now I can take a deep breath, check the driving mirror and set off, adapting your seam instructions to hem those curtains. Wish me luck!
Good luck!!
You can do it!!! 😊
Finally, someone giving clear understandable advice. Thankyou
I’ve been sewing for sixty years and yet, found this “back to basics” tutorial very helpful! Thank you so much.❤
You are so welcome!
Very helpful!! I always struggle w the 1/4 inch seam. I’ve tried the feet but not great. Having the tape out front has really helped. So easy, so effective. Thank you!
I just found your channel today & subscribed 😀
I’m 62 trying to learn how to sew. My mother didn’t have the patience to teach me, my hope is to learn enough to share it with those I love . Your channel is truly a blessing.
You can do it!
This was the most helpful video I've ever seen on sewing a straight stitch. Thank you so much.
@AngeliqueStevens - Here is an off-topic, but similar, technique for drawing a straight line. - - - -
* Put a light dot on your paper where you want the line to end.
* Put the pencil at the point where the line starts.
* Then draw, looking ONLY at that far dot, NOT your hand or pencil.
* This will help you improve the very first time you try.
.^_^.
I've been a tailor for 30 years now, and I could've used that advice way back when. Thanks for sharing this
❤❤❤❤ thank you. I am a Jane come lately to sewing I am 71 I always quit sewing because I couldn’t sew straight! Thank you.
You should definitely try again!❤️🙂
oh me too. I always have my seam ripper out whenever I sew because I know I'm going to need it. :( And I've quit many times because I wasn't given basic tips when I learnt how to sew in my teens.
Hugs! Keep going!
Omg I love this video. Thank you!! Lots of good analogies. So helpful. Love the line…. no one is going to honk at you for sewing too slow 🤣
Glad it was helpful!
Now Sara that is the sort of advice that every sewer should have been given but weren't!!! Thank you. And thanks for the chuckle at nobody will honk at you if you sew slowly. Love that.
Yes! But so many people now are learning to sew without an experienced sewer sitting beside them.
Excellent video! The analogy with a new driver is spot on.
Glad you enjoyed it
Been sewing for years and finally know why I do what I do! Thank ou!
Best, most concise, useful advice available online
🥰
This is soooo blommin' useful! I even have washi tape that I got because it was pretty but didn't know what to do with it, HAH! This is perfect timing for this tip!
Glad it was helpful!
I just discovered you today. I love your style…..straightforward help. No trying to be funny, no wasting time. Thank you! I have subscribed! ☺️
Welcome!!
I'm guilty of not sewing straight seams, but now I know why and can correct it. Thank you!
Yay!!!😁
Well made video and great sensible tips! Thanks. We all need reminders even if we have been sewing for 50 years.
Yes, I am sometime reminding myself as well LOL!
I agree. I needed this refresher.
😂I love the mentioning of nobody will be honking at you if you take you time. Thanks really great tips. 👌
I like the way you explained the logic behind this tip. When I first began to sew when I was seven, (I'm 53 now) I couldn't couldn't follow the lines on the metal plate because I couldn't see them so ended up putting masking take on my moms machine just like this.
Thank you for these clear explanations and valuable tips! I've been sewing since I was twelve (am 76 now) and your car driving analogy is the best instruction ever. Thank you, Sara.
Thank you very much. I purchased a sewing machine yesterday, and now I'm learning about how to do simple things without relying on someone else.
That is awesome! Way to go🙂🙂🙂
Thanks so much!!💗before my mama passed she had wrecked her car (ran under her a semi truck) and she tried to drive but was terrified to do so. I encouraged her to try she then had a hard time… when I asked her why she was having trouble keeping the car in the middle of the road she said “ it was harder on my car” then she explained that she was taught to center the car emblem on the hood (in the middle) was supposed to lined up with “right” side of the road!! Can’t believe I never thought of this!! Thankssssssss oh I’m only 72 learned to sew by myself over the phone with a friend lolol
Awesome way to learn to sew!!
My mom told me the same thing about lining up the hood ornament with the side of the road. Where have they all gone?
I'm 65 and that's how I've learned to sew the last yr. Phone calls and alot of you tube
My mom taught me to guide the fabric from the edge of the sewing machine table for long seams ... tiny adjustments keep it going straight. And she was making choir robes so I had miles of seams to do.
That certainly must have been miles of seams!!!!
@@prettysimplesara You learn to sew FAST and straight.
She was making and you were making!
@@slantdwave She was being paid to make the robes. I was making less as a subcontractor and child labor.
I just 'found' you today and don't know how I missed you before! I've been sewing for over 57 years and your tips make so much (common) sense in the sewing world. I have subscribed and know that I will be watching everything I can find with you. Thanks for posting such a wonderful video.
Thank you and welcome!
Dito for me. 👍
I learned to sew back in the 1960s on a cast iron, black Singer sewing machine (1947 model) . The machine went forward and backward and had no lines engraved on either side of the presser foot for gauging seam allowance widths. It had a narrow feed dog area with a 1/4” wide presser foot. It always made beautiful stitches on every fabric, chiffon to thick denim. I had no problem sewing straight. I had been watching my mother sew 5/8” and 1/4” seam allowances for years, so I began sewing what I thought was a 5/8” seam allowance and found out I was pretty darn accurate. The more I sewed, the more accurate I became by just gauging the amount of fabric that was on the right side of the presser foot. Of course sewing the 1/4” seam allowance was very easy because you sewed with the raw edge against the right side of the presser foot. When I purchased a more modern sewing machine with wider apart feed dogs, a wider presser foot and engravings on the needle plate I noticed that the sewing machine, though a good one, did not sew every fabric quite as easily and sewing curves was more of a challenge, but I loved the other things this new machine could do-zig-zag, buttonholes, decorative sewing. I learned new ways to handle the fabric as the machine sewed. I kept on improving my skills at cutting and sewing different garments, tailoring and pattern alterations. I love sewing and ended up setting up a studio where I taught children and adults to sew on and off for about 30 years. I now have a very fancy, top-of-the-line sewing machine that has a 9mm wide feed dog area, a 9mm wide presser foot with dual feeding. This machine also embroiders. I still sew mainly garments and I love my big machine, but I recently purchased an industrial sewing machine that only sews straight stitches and goes forward and backward. I find myself gravitating to the straight stitch machine more and more for garment sewing. It is so much easier to sew, handle the fabric and especially when sewing curves. I also find that when I sew on this machine or my Singer featherweight with no seam allowance markings that I am able to gauge seam allowances easily and accurately, just like my teenage years when I was learning to sew. You can gauge any and all seam allowance widths with practice. In fact, sometimes the engraved line gets in the way in sewing curves with wider presser feet. You need to look on the right of the middle of the presser foot where the needle pierces the fabric to make sure that the seam allowance stays the same width as in the straighter areas. Sewing is all about accuracy and judgement. Happy sewing, y’all!
My Home Ec teacher showed us this trick in the late 1960's, so this tip has stood the test of time.
I’ve never seen your videos before. I’m teaching five friends how to sew. This will be a nice reminder for them. I can send this to them between our sessions. Thank you so much. Subscribed.
Awesome! Thank you!
This is a great video! Going back to sewing after many years away from my sewing machine. Thank you so much for this very helpful information!
You are so welcome!
The bare essentials that most sewing channels forget! I find that the precious information often comes from quilting sewers though :)
I ❤ your commentary. So true, nobody is going to honk at me for sewing slowly 😅 thanks for sharing these amazing, yet simple tips!
You are so welcome!
This is the best video I every watched and you are brilliant and meticulous at guiding a beginner like myself.
I am now more confident than ever, thank you🎉
Glad it was helpful!
I've been sewing since I was 15 years old and probably would consider myself to be an advance beginner 😄at age 56. I have been guilty of all of these and learned so much! Thank you!
I’m go glad it was helpful🙂
This video is a huge reminder that some fixes are so simple and free; thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
I have sewn for 70 some years, but now I do use a seam guide because macular degeneration is robbing me of sight and it distorts things. I just got my Bernina 1130 cleaned and tuned up to keep going for as long as I do. It is my favorite possession of all time, above all other things by a mile. It has always done everything I have ever asked of it and more. When I die, she goes to my granddaughter who could also use it for a lifetime because it is the greatest machine ever made, say the dealers who take care of her. She has realiably made money for me when times were hard, helped me grow as a designer, and performed flawlessly when I needed a contest winner. She’s the one constant in my life that has never failed me.
I love my 1030 for all those same reasons! ❤️Bernina❤️
This was excellent. I haven’t used a machine in decades and inherited my grandmother’s machine. I needed a refresher. Your cues are perfect. Thank you. I’m so glad your video came up on my feed.
Glad it was helpful!
I am so glad that you came up in my feed. My middle daughter wants to learn how to sew. She watched me while she was growing up and now wants to make things. Since we don’t live in the same city, I will tell her about your channel so she can watch
Thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for sharing these tips! I’m a beginner and for some mysterious reason have a hard time sewing in straight lines. I could never have imagined that would be difficult as I have pretty good fine motor skills. But, low and behold, here I am, trying to keep my seams straight 😁.
As a very inexperienced sewer who is trying to successfully work my mom's 1946 Singer, I really appreciate this video lesson. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! You have a great machine to work with 🙂
So I'm not the only one sewing with their mother's ancient sewing machine XD
Thank you for your advice. I will definitely be putting it into practice, especially not sewing too fast, but at a speed that is comfortable for me. Love "no one will honk at me for sewing slowly".
It makes the whole process more joyful. ❤️
Getting ready to thread & use my new mini sewing machine for the very first time ever (using a machine) This was so helpful! I love the analogies & the clear cut, to the point, thorough info!! Thanks sew much! 😁🙏🏼
Glad it was helpful! Have a wonderful time!
Thank you for the great and patient information. I have done some garment sewing on and off for years and commonly struggle with going straight, your insights will make a big difference.
I’m so glad to hear that 🙂
I love your analogies! You broke this video down into bite size actionable steps we can all relate to! Great job and keep them coming!
Thank you! Will do!
New to sewing and I always questioned the magnetic tools. Any tool is only as good as the operator. This is amazing advice! You are a good teacher! Thank you.
You are so welcome!
I’ve had my sewing machine for about three years and I’m still new. Because I get so discouraged that I don’t know what I’m doing. My fabric gets stuck down in the machine where the feet are and I don’t understand why I don’t know what number I should have the feet on to grab the fabric. I don’t know the tension I have problems and you are the first person I came along you today, you are the very first person that I have felt like I truly understand and show how you work with not just showing songs over the videos you sit there and take the time to explain and I mean I appreciate that. I know you’re the one for me and thank you for being there and sharing what you do. I was wondering if you could talk about the tension on what number it should be on. When you should change the tension or what width you’re supposed to use for your zigzag lines, straight lines all the lines? Again thank you.
Check out my link. One of my videos here is about tension (I’ll try to link in a minute). In terms of length of stitches, around 2.5-3 on the stitch length setting is good for a lot of things. The stitch width for the zigzag depends on what you are sewing/making.
Here’s just the tension video - ruclips.net/video/hSM_q6i_jag/видео.htmlsi=XZVOSJvmQRZz864K
I don’t have a video about stitch length yet here on RUclips, but I’ll put it on the list.
Don’t give up!
Fantastic! I’ve been sewing for decades, didn’t know about eyes on the hood of the car. Thx!
This is brilliant advice! Generations of sewists in my family and no one ever explained it like you! Thank so much 🖤🖤🖤
You are so welcome!
I think the hardest part is taking our time, seems to slow comparing to the tutorials. Thank you so much for the words! I’m certainly going to try the wash tape hack!
Yes! So much is rushed in our culture. There is value to sewing beyond just what we make.
Ah, thanks a bunch! I'm making a few bowl cozies for my friend to sell at her store and just knew I'd have to learn to sew in a straight line now that I'm making something for the first time that's intended to be sold.
This takes a bunch of stress off my shoukders, thanks a bunch!
Sounds like fun!
Excellent tips! I just bought one of those magnetic seam guides in an effort to improve my seam allowance, but I think I need to focus more on the user (me!!). Thanks Sara!
Thanks Michelle!! I just recently started piecing with a regular foot, but moved my needle over to the right. Fabric covers more of the feed dogs with the same 1/4 inch seam that way. Bit of playing to get it right, but it’s been a good switch. Easier to stay straight with our narrow seams.
Love your tutorials ❤️👍🙂
Wow. THANK you. Simple fixes, I suppose, but as a beginner with no guide, I must admit that they never occurred to me. I think they will be very helpful; thank you so much! Subscribed 🙂
Thank you and welcome 🙂
Just learning to sew on a repaired hand-me-down. Top tier advice! I was definitely looking at the needle and over-steering! Will put these tips to use tonight while I play with remnants… :D
Glad it was helpful!
I’m so glad this showed up in my recommended. I’ve only been sewing for two months or so and bought a seam guide to help but even using it my lines aren’t straight.
I look forward to trying these tips out tomorrow!
Super!! While I have advanced skills in several crafts, sewing has always seemed impossible to me because I can't sew a straight seam to save my soul. You've given me hope!
My first sewing machine will arrive today and I will carry these tips with me for as long as I use a sewing machine, which I am hoping will be a very long time. Thank you.
Have a wonderful time!
Superb video, thank you! This should be mandatory viewing for all new sewers. And some not so new ones, too… 😉
im sewing for the first time today. you are amazing. thanks for the tips
You got this! How is it going?
Thank you for the detailed information, instructions, & advice, i prefer them so much more than the fast short videos these days. Your channel is a gem ❤
Glad you like them!
Great comments! Every beginner should see this. It takes time and practice to get it “perfect.”
Absolutely!
Loved this video, it was the biggest pat on the back that I didn’t know I needed
So glad to hear it-sending you lots of pats on the back!!
Thank you for these tips! I'm a beginner and have struggled to sew straight. I will try these immediately.
Kudos to you for learning something new!
Wow, this were very important tips for me as a sewing beginner. Thank's a lot. Greetings from Germany.
Gern geschehen! 🙂
Thanks so much for the great tips Sara. It’s nice to know that there are so many others out there with the same problem. I loved the tip about sowing slowly. The sewing videos we watch on RUclips give the impression that everyone is sewing so quickly and you think you’re the only one who can’t. Better to take your time. It’s not a race.
Exactly! It’s about enjoying yourself, not rushing:)
You get the point across so clearly. Everything makes more sense now.
So happy!
Best sewing instruction video ever. Greetings from Norway.😊
Thank you! Norway is on my travel wish list🙂
Thank you for this video. I'm a beginner at sewing with a machine and these tips are very helpful so I can start off on the right foot. Honestly, my machine is quite intimidating right now but I know with time and practice I'll be okay. I'll definitely be checking out your other videos to see what extra gems I can pick up that I'm missing right now. Subscribed!
Thank you! You might want to check out my learn to sew course, depending on where you are at (if you read the description you’ll be able to tell if you’re beyond it). My RUclips is just starting.
This video is a God send!!! Thank you for explaining this SO well. Using driving as the analogy for sewing was brilliant. I thank you and my future straight seams thank you, lol. 😊
Wow! Every beginner must watch this. Fantastic video for ALL!! Thank you.
Anything to make it less frustrating for those who are now learning on their own instead of from someone in their life🙂
Great tips and I might add an amazing knack for teaching. Thanks so much! I’m just learning sewing again and this was super helpful.
You are so welcome!
What a great video , you managed to explain some pretty technical stuff in a nice non techie way and I love the driving analogy. I have put a servo motor on two of my machines to slow them down and sometimes on tricky stuff I am quite literaly putting stiches in one at a time and nobody honked at me.
Much appreciated!
This sounds like great advice. I’ve been using a sewing machine occasionally for many years and always struggle to keep a straight line. I’m sure that watching your video is going to greatly help me. The driving reference made so much sense. Thank you.
👍🙂
Thank you! Your explanations are so gentle!
🙂
Thank you, Sara. It is helpful not only for beginners, but for some self-taught or those who didn't use machine for a long while.
BRILLIANT tips and just what I need as a newbie. So thank you! Now I just need to go and practice practice practice. (Going slow actually isn't easy for me yet 😅 gotta learn to control my speed too.)
You got this!
Wawwww, first time I see your channel, perfect video from beginning to the end , no BS, straight talk, I really appreciate it, thank you for sharing, and new subbie
Thanks!
This is the best and easiest advice I’ve heard! Thank you!
Thanks Sara for going slow and explaining. I wanted to put slant pockets in a skirt. Tried several sites, but they went so fast, that I couldn’t follow. I’m no beginner, but some of them even a beginner couldn’t follow. By the way I’m 91 and just subscribed to your channel.
Glad it was helpful! I’m doing me best to take care of myself so that I can be just like you🙂
Thank you so much for this video. You’re a great teacher with sound advice that is both concise and memorable. You have built my confidence another step up in just 7 minutes and 12 seconds. Yep. You’re good! 🥰
Aw, Thanks! Building confidence in sewers is exactly my goal I. Making these videos 🥰🥰
you have a gift for teaching Bravo. and thank you
🥰 thank you so much 🥰. I hate to see people struggle with technical things when creating.
Oh boy, did I need these tips.
Love the idea of tape.
Now if I could just get tension to be consistent.
My most recent video is all about tension🙂. Sewing machine tension - what it is and how to adjust it.
Understanding what's happening is the key
ruclips.net/video/hSM_q6i_jag/видео.html
Thank you so much Sara- I cant wait to try these. I've been really struggling with straight lines and I havent been able to figure out what Im doing wrong lol Im glad I saw this before I went out and bought all the gadgets. Thank you
I am so glad it helped 🙂
I just bought a new machine to get back to stitching which I used to do in my younger days. I triec it today and my stitch lines went all crooked. So happy i found your wonderful and useful video today. Will try out your tips now. Thank you !
Have fun!
WOW I AM ON DAY 4 of sewing. You are a GREAT TEACHER ❤THANK YOU
Have fun! Always remember to have fun 🙂
Thank you for presenting your points concisely and in a matter of fact way. Honest but not judgemental. That's just what I needed to know in order to improve, without the actual messages getting lost in rambling and unnecessary introduction for the sake of having introductions.
I wish more videos on RUclips followed your style!
Thanks. I try my best to be helpful 🙂
58 year old guy new to seeing. Thanks for the advice and humor. I just put down some painters tape!
Have fun!
Thank you so much. These make so much sense, but only if it is shown out. 😊
My confidence went up already just by watching this video.
You got this!
best advice i think i've ever seen for sewing, thank you!!
You are a wonderful humanbeing! Thank you! For experienced sewers these advice probably seem obvious. But for us pretty much still in the starting ditch; they are the gold at the end of the rainbow that we thought we`d never find. You make my life easier and lighter. 🙂
You are so welcome!
I’m 66 & I’ve always struggled to sew straight & on the rare occasions I have I’m pretty pleased with myself
I haven’t had my machine out for years but thank to your wonderful advice ,tomorrow I’m going dust off the proverbial cobwebs
find some fabric to play with and do it your way
So glad you are going to play!
Thank you so much for your tips, I struggle making straight lines and I now know it’s because I’m looking at the hood and tightly gripping the wheel. The washy tape is a great idea!
So glad it helped 🙂
I could hardly wait to get to eight grade and get to take Home Economics class, mainly for the sewing. My mom had already given me opportunities on her Singer, so, I was amazed at the newbies that couldn’t do a constant speed, or do a straight line. Good memories with my friends 🤗
I had the same experience in Home Ec. All of a sudden people wanted my help😂
Very approachable video with good demonstrations. Also really good audio quality. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Oh god thank you so much for this video. Not only is it crucial & much-appreciated information, but the way you presented it is so refreshingly wonderful, simple, straight-forward, & easy to understand. Like your delivery itself has given me extra confidence. I just really appreciate it.
You're very welcome!
You're a good teacher. Thanks for sharing these tips!
This is a good video
While I can sew a straight line some months back. I was reading a sewing book that told you how to hold the material properly.
I’ve never seen that in a book before
I realise sometimes I hold material the way they said and sometimes I didn’t
Now having practising and being consistent I can truely say what a difference
So glad you are having success!
Wow, impressive! You deliver the information without nonsense, clearly and in basic language and terms novices can easily understand. I have been sewing for years (my wife gave me a sewing machine for Father's day on our anniversary 50 plus years ago) and I still found your wonderful refresher very useful.
Thank you!