Tell me, what was your sewing journey this past year? And what is your vision and dreams for 2021 with your with your sewing? If you want to up your sewing game this year join me and a community of other like minded sewists at Vintage Sewing School www.vintagesewingschool.com/ as I would love to have you in class!
My sewing journey was primarily making things for my infant. While spending a lot of time on you tube learning about vintage and historical sewing and fashion. I'm finally ready to start my journey into the 1890's
I acquired an embroidery/quilting machine, and A NEW SEWING ROOM!!!! I’m so excited to learn my new machine and what it’s capable of. I’ve watched so many of your tutorials, and so many bag making tutorials. Now I’m ready to really develop my skills and use my machines and supplies to their potential. I aim to learn how to adapt a commercial pattern to fit me. To make bags for gifts, that people want to use. To make toys for babies and toddlers in my life. To branch out into fabulous frightening fabrics To stop trawling destash sites! Lols.
I was making matching Hawaiian shirts for my family for an upcoming cruise, when cruises become a thing again, when I was requested to make a dress for my favorite aunt to be buried in. So now that is my focus and I was embroidering it while watching your channel. This project totally freaks some people out and I can only speak about it openly in our little online sewing community. It is unusual perhaps, but I don't think it is weird. My favorite aunt is 90 and in hospice. She knows her time left on this earth is limited. She wanted a dress with specific details... it must be brown, it must have a collar, it must have 3/4 sleeves and it must have a petticoat to preserve her modesty. I have made the waist and cuffs discreetly adjustable as she is losing weight. It is heartbreaking to lose my aunt, I love her very much. We had just buried my mother in October. But I can't dwell on that... this outfit, her last, will have love sewn in every stitch and to me what greater honor can I be given than to wrap her in my love with the clothes I made for her.
I love this. She will spend eternity wrapped in your love. She has given you a beautiful gift with this request. My sympathy on the passing of your mother.
I was just gifted around 5 boxes FULL of fabric and went through them today thinking of all the wonderful things I can make this year. Last year was my biggest year of sewing. I accomplished a lot and learned a lot! My family reenacts the F&I war and I hand make a lot of our period correct clothing. I took on learning proper hand stitches and made a waistcoat, shirt, and 2 dresses. I also made a lot of our home items such as napkins, placemats, etc. I completely out did myself when it came to Christmas gifts - I hand made all but 1 of all 4 of my children's gifts: night gowns, jammie britches, baby doll carriers, art tote bags, stuffed animals, aprons and clothing that was much needed. I also made my in-laws luxurious neck pillows. This years goals so far are to do blankies and booties for all the babies of friends being born this year. I would even like to make matching booties for the expectant parents. I have a goal to sew myself at least 3 dresses using Amish/Mennonite patterns. I will be making my girls their Easter dresses using the Peppermint Swirl pattern, and an Easter outfit for my son with a McCall's pattern I just got. Hmm, thats all I can think of now lol.
This year I am actually moving across the world to an entirely different climate (from Canada to Singapore!) so I decided that it's finally time to be brave enough to cut into my beautiful stash of linen and cotton and make the all dress wardrobe of my dreams.
Really needed this today. Had a health scare that got me thinking it's time to dedicate time for what I want instead of sewing for everyone else. Just retired from my sewing business at a local laundry after almost 18 years. I still have my full-time job for an accounting firm. Evenings and weekends are now mine.
I have been sewing most of my life but you have added such new insights into the craft. I am amazed at what I didn't know. Thank you for your in depth teaching.
I just love it when you are 'real' and show what you struggle with eg photos of stuff on the floor. It makes me feel so much better when I struggle with my sewing space.
I've accomplished much over the past few months since i started sewing again after many years away....a quilt and a dress. Unfortuneately my machine is in for repairs right now and looks like it will take awhile. So at present i'm in the planning stage. I plan to make 4 vintage 50's garments over the next year. I also hope to have a serger by the end of 2021. Happy sewing everyone!!!
I had to rewatch this video because earlier this week I feel asleep!!!! Our cat had woke me up at 3am, I had to work from home and after lunch I watched this episode and took a snooze. Today, I finally rewatched; I was awake while the cat is asleep. My 2020 sewing roadblocks are my new goals for 2021: learn to sew zippers in a more professional manner, REALLY pay close attention to the pattern instructions & follow them and finally, get over the fear of threading my serger. It's sitting there not being used and I sure could use it to finish off projects. I recently cleared out junk and reorganized my studio. I already feel much better sitting here watching sewing RUclips videos and working with my sister in law as we slowly launch our business. Thank you so much for your inspiration and good luck in your new 'temporary home in the tropics'. Being from the 'States, I'm not sure exactly where that is at.
I've been sewing since august 2020. I started with making a quilt, paused on that to make myself a button up shirt (both hand sewn). On Christmas I got a sewing machine. My goals for this year is get better at using my sewing machine, finish the quilt I started, make a skirt for my friend, and more shirts for myself. And other mini crafts like masks and lanyards. Try to sew a couple times a week as well.
Wow was this video needed. I've just destashed, reorganized, even bought the correct size stool I've wanted/needed. Husband lowered my sewing table for me...but now what!? Where to start!!! I have a disabled child. I never 'set a schedule' or 'make a plan' because his needs come first & I would end up disappointed I couldn't do what I WANTED TO DO. So! I've learned to roll with it~ be happy with what I can get done when I can. That said, I never finished anything. So with your goals, I'm actually sitting down and focusing on making my time more profitable, & pleasing and trying to figure out how I can incorporate my son in my endeavors. He does go to fabric stores & thrift shops with me - a fatal error on my part as now he loves to shop & I end up tailoring items for him by ways I've learned from you! From a special needs mom, your videos have proven invaluable to someone who can't go out to classes (b4 covid), & have shown me I can do so much more than I originally thought! A child with Down Syndrome has a much different body shape than a typical child. My goal is to complete the 3 quilts I have cut out!! Lofty, yes? Thank you Evelyn!
Thank you so much for this information!! It helps me be more organized to plan my projects. Many times I only have the ideas in my head & I don't always get them done.
Being cash-flow strapped in 2019, I sewed nearly all of my Christmas gifts last year for work gift exchange and my 5 grown kids. Hence, I was VERY ready to sew for myself in 2020. I also reorganized my entire sewing area so it's very quickly usable. Bam! I sewed three historical pieces for myself--drawers, a flannel slip with deep cotton lace edging and a long plaid skirt. The rest of the year I enjoyed machine embroidery projects. This year I plan to finish my Martha Pullen Heirloom Sewing Certificate so I can teach when this crazy pandemic has settled down and sew history-bounding skirts and blouses for my job as a teacher. :)
This past year I found your channel, and I learned SO MUCH. Top stitching and Under stitching have already made a big difference to me; I watched the stay-stitching video a little too late, but that was definitely a lightbulb moment for me. Like so many sewists, I made masks, which gave me a huge confidence boost, because I see so many of them, and I realize mine are very well-made. My doctor even told me so! My hurdles are space and time-related. I hope to soon have a readily accessible machine, although the advantage to taking over non-dedicated spaces with my machine is that then my mister wants my project(s) finished. Haha. My goals for this year are to stop talking and do! I’ll start with the small unfinished things I have around the house. Then I have a friend who will mentor me through the BIG projects, and probably pin me down to just 1, so that I actually finish it and not be in the same place but with different projects next year.
This is the best video I have seen for like a YEAR! Thank you so much for sharing this video, it has helped me and inspired me a lot. Sewing is now going to be my thing, nobody is allowed to bring me down, me do me!
Alright here we go! Where I have been: over the last year I've been slowly gaining confidence in my ability to sew and I've started to understand how to manipulate patterns to fit me. A large part of that was being given a lot of fabric that I wouldn't want to wear (I have an autonomic system issue that makes my body temperature shift drastically so I only wear natural fibers) but they were great to use as mockups. Problems now: motivation to just sit down and do the thing is my biggest issue. I still have that annoying little voice in my head telling me that it's just a waste of time because it's not going to look good anyway and I find myself listening to it more than I would like. Vision for future sewing: I want to sew clothes for my everyday wardrobe, feel confident in my skills, learn more hand sewing and embroidery, and try tablet weaving hems onto skirts. Action plan: for the confidence side of things I have made a good, better, best version of all my projects so I'm not disappointed if I can't manage the absolute best, and I'm going to send progress reports and pictures to my sister and mom who are great cheerleaders to help boost me when I start feeling down. I want to spend 2 afternoons a week sewing, though because of my chronic illness I'm not going to set specific days. I'm going to try my best to not compare myself to others who can sew for more than one hour at a time without pain by interacting more with disabled creator communities to share ideas, tips, and encouragement.
Sounds like a great plan. I'm in a similar situation with chronic illness that makes it difficult to set specific days aside. I decided I'm going to sew for 5 hours every week even if it's in 5 minute increments. Here's to gaining confidence as your sewing skills progress to knock the self defeating vouces out! ❤💪
Nat this is so inspiring! I love your way of implementing the good better best system. I find this attitude really take the pressure off too. You thought this through well and tailored it to you, so I know you are going to see your sewing dream come true! 😀
NAT; While I don’t have an autoimmune disease I have had at least three episodes of bleeding in my brain. Before my last aneurysm I was trying to relearn how to sew and take care of my husband who has a lot of medical problems. I have the same problem with my little voice in my head also. Just keep trying to do what you can.
Will do my writing tomorrow. Everyone that said you video is more helpful than others are right. Always need help planning and setting goals. Will post more after completing my written assignment. Thanks so much!
My beloved 25 year old machine gave up the ghost at the end of 2020. I have bought a new one which I hope creates as many memories as my dear Janome did 😊
This year I ventured into sewing with different types of fabric than I've worked with before. I'm learning to slow down and get to know the ins and outs of a material rather than rushing to finish a project. My goals this year (inspired by this video and tediously seam ripping while watching it) is to focus on the quality of my garment construction vs quantity. 😉
Evelyn! Thank you so much for your videos. Started sewing handbags a few years ago and I want to try clothing this year. Your channel is the first I've found that's super easy for a beginner like me to learn about terms, tools, garment construction, etc. I can't wait to learn more!
I'm a beginner sewist and what I did this past year was figure out what method I liked to trace my patterns and stocked up on supplies. This next year I want to work on fit with mock ups and learning how to use the new sewing feet that I got for Christmas.
Past year: had basic skills from my mom. Bought sewing machine about 5 years ago. Made no projects. Last February started making masks for family . Very rewarding to make them their “first masks” to help protect them. Very appreciated. Then others wanted them, I did it but pressure mounted. Had to stop. No time for self since provided 7 day a week childcare for two grandchildren d/t COVID restrictions. Present: Grandchildren just started daycare so want to work on some goals. Future: 1 projects for the home like pillows and curtains. 2 Make a sundress for self I started 2years ago. 3 make time to see 2 hours per week. Thank you Evelyn. Love your channel. Very inspiring. Love vintage!
LOL. My "list" of goals is to sew a bunch of aprons to give away. The new thing will be to learn to sew ruffles and to sew ruffled aprons so much that I become comfortable and confident sewing them. That doesn't sound like much of a list. However, I want to make a tiny list because a long list with deadlines would feel overwhelming and discouraging. P.S. Everyone liked the pillowcases that I sewed and gave away as December 2020 gifts. If anyone had said something bad, I would have just told them to return it so that I could give it to someone who appreciated it.
I will be retired this Feb, after 50+ years of working, raising a family, & trying to do projects for my sewing! I have sewn full wedding wardrobes, prom dresses, alterations, but My projects never quite fit Me, the way I wanted! My goal this year, Because I have time now is to work on my talent for Me! I made a dress form & realize how Helpful it is! I am taking time to do the work also, that’s quite different too! Thank you for your time in helping us Enjoy sewing!
I love your emphasis on process. One of the things I found when listing roadblocks was just getting up and getting started, in the mornings. That's something I intend to work on - though I will have a starter set of projects to work on, because I've immediate need for them. In the big picture, my goal is to slowly start building up the wardrobe I actually want, piece by piece. I also want to work on working from historical patterns and pad stitching, which I've *seen* in abundance but haven't actually *done*.
Last year: Achievements: I slowed down, focused on the details and finishing. I gave myself compassionate deadlines and goals that didn't require me sewing during every bit of free time (This was aided by the fact that I wasn't going anywhere.). Roadblocks: I had some serious motivation issues, being in lockdown and all my plans being obliterated really hampered my desire to be creative. This also caused a lot of projects getting started but not finished because the motivation disappeared. Sleeves also continued to be my bane. Present: Other than my persistent lack of a dedicated sewing space, my only major roadblock is time. Future: In 2021, I focused on continuing to be detail oriented and learned how to do piping. I improved my skills in pattern drafting and made an item for someone from the block up. I finished organizing and cataloguing my massive fabric hoard and notions. I finally found the confidence to get two professional photo shoots done of projects. Action plan: Dedicate at least one weekend day a month and one evening a week to focus solely on sewing. Catalogue any incoming fabric and notions. Practice, practice, practice. Schedule photo shoots instead of pushing them of to the "next" project.
So here we go: Last year I started some projects but finished none of them. There are three pieces that are sitting on my sewing table right now, that I just need to finish. Like you, I moved house and my sewing room isn’t. So. - Right now, I need to finish setting up my new sewing space. Finish the three pieces I started and take apart a piece I did finish last year, but I don’t like the finish. This year I put together a beautiful organized sewing space. I worked hard on my hand sewing techniques and learned how to alter and then make traditional lined kimono from scratch. I dedicated time every day to improving my technique and set aside one evening a week to cut and one evening a week to sew. I reviewed my entire wardrobe, including my history bounding and my traditional Japanese wardrobe, and planned new pieces to fit, or complete kitsuke (styling). Etc.
Your video inspired me to run out and get myself a binder and dividers to organize my ideas for 2021. I gave myself enough dividers to organize ideas for other categories as well as sewing like self-care activities and household projects that I want to tackle this year. It gives me something concrete to do to get the year started since there are so many things going on in the world that are out of my control.
I only just started a few months ago but I already knew the basics ,but I have found that patience is the best medicine for any project , thank you Evelyn for a reminder as to planning for the future, 👍🏻
I don't need many new pieces for my wardrobe because clothes last me a very long time. Classic styles, quality fabrics, etc.. The outfit I need is something conservative and respectful for... well 2020. You know what for. I found an XL maxi skirt at a thrift store to refashion. However, my Janome stalled and does nothing but flash a variety of error messages, so I'm currently saving up to get it repaired. Last year I mostly sewed grocery tote bags for the food bank, and baby blankets for the children's hospital.
Thank you for this video! When I watched it for the first time I was really down and dissatisfied with my sewing - or rather the chaotic nature of me doing stuff in general - so I needed a few evenings to slowly weed through my mind and identify the problems. I've finished now; it took 3 pages in my journal, but I'll try to share the gist of it with you all. Past year's sewing: I only bit the bullet and started doing this seriously - read: with commitment - in March or April (before that I would get my machine out maybe once a year). The biggest project actually came right after that: I was asked to make a skirt with a romantic/historical vibe as a surprise gift for a dear friend of mine. I took the challenge and made a long half circle skirt with a wide yoke and lacing (since I didn't know the exact measurements, it had to be adjustable; I copied that from a skirt I own). I also embroidered the yoke - a new skill as well. It wasn't perfect, but it came out really beautiful and I'm still proud of myself :) (you see - I just had to brag) Then I did some smaller projects, in knits too. Problem: I found myself easily getting overwhelmed and discouraged when problems I hadn't forseen (bc of my lack of experience) would arise, which often made me drop a project for a couple of weeks. Then I'd get frustrated abt how long it all took, and I wouldn't even remember what I wanted to do anyway. By this time next year: I will have created various garments, from skirts and dresses through comfy stuff (t-shirts & leggings) to outer wear. I want to focus on bodices, fitting and drafting/altering patterns to fit. I see myself as a sewist who is confident and aware of their set of skills and thus able to identify potential problems before the damage is done. Plans: 1) I will keep a proper sewing journal (I did that for the first project but I've abandoned it since), with numbered pages and an index. 2) I need to supress my "figure everything out by myself" side a bit, because not only is this approach too time-consuming, but also I might not be learning the right lessons. There might be better solutions than mine within Google's reach. So: try to solve the puzzle, but check the solution before cutting into fabric. 3) I will not let myself obsess over a new idea when I should be working on the project at hand. I need to focus more. 4) I want to figure out a specific drafting system from the 50's, I have the special ruler for this and patterns drafted by (and for) a person who attended the course on that method in 1960, but no specific instructions (maybe I can find some online). This is a very interesting and exciting puzzle especially as I'm very inspired by the constumes in Queen's Gambit right now and want to sew almost everything that Beth wore ;) P. S. Evelyn, I absolutely adore your blouse. Am I guessing right that below the yoke, the sleeves are cut in one piece with the rest of the blouse?
This year I discovered crumb quilts. They check a lot of boxes for me because they are scrappy, and they are an easy type of art, and they're thrifty. A big hurdle for me is affording fabric, so sewing a big wardrobe is out. But I can make miniature quilts, doll sized, and hang them as art on my walls. It satisfies a need I didn't even know I had, to be creative and hang up some art of my own in my house.
Last year: most challenging was a tailored jacket. This year: Order! I’m starting to sort my fabric stash, into what I want to make with each. For projects starting soon, deciding on and ordering patterns / buttons / zips / threads and putting everything for a project together in a bag will hopefully stop me procrastinating as I’ll have no excuse as everything together. (I say hopefully...)
I catalogued all my fabrics on an app. It tells me what the fabric is and how much of it I have and where in the house it’s stored. Very useful. If I get more, I add it to the app before it goes in the cupboard.
My plan was to finally make a dress form in 2020. It got sidelined by making masks, while I started making making masks after I graduated community college in May. Once I started making masks a friend suggested making a mask scraps quilt. While watching different mask making videos one showed how to make as 1800s inspired scarp quilt. Quilt in a day Ha, ha, ha. I got (5) 7.5" squares made before my classes at the 4 year University started. December 31 two classmates got engaged I've cut the fabric for their gift I just need to bind it. I purchased a same themed gift to go with it. I did make about 200 mask and distributed them about , and made a long braid for the scrap quilt in 2020. I hope to finish the mask scraps quilt, bind that blanket and get that dress form made.
This has really helped me to narrow down what era I am going to learn first in VSS for this year. I am going to get a whiteboard so that I can see my year goals and action plans on the wall of my sewing room. If I put it in a book, or planner. I will forget about it.
Since I'm brand new to sewing this year, my only goals, currently, are to become good enough to be able to start making my own clothes & to learn how to take garments or other fabric pieces & rework them. I love the idea of recycling fabric & other related items, including thrift store finds, as much as possible before going out to buy brand new material.
Thank you for this video and the great tips. During lockdown I have been converting an extra bedroom to a sewing studio. So happy it's finally done! I'm looking forward to spending time there. I have been collecting Folkwear patterns for (40+) years. This year I want to make garments from those patterns and focus on exquisite craftsmanship in the construction.
I've struggled with patterns not fitting well and having a very hard time adjusting them. This year I've learned that I need to size down for my narrow shoulders and hopefully that will solve my major fit issues. My goal for 2021 is to make more of my wardrobe and hopefully have it be more efficient with less alterations. I'm going to be focusing on easy to wear items so I can wear mostly items I've made. This month I'm also being realistic on my mending pile and donating items I know I'll never actually refashion or have the time to do. This will make my sewing space less crowded and nicer to be in.
Thank you Evelyn for this video! I had already made out my "top 10 goal list" for 2021 when I watched this, but it hadn't occurred to me to create an actual Action Plan. Duh! Have done so now and am on my way to making my goals a reality. Ta da!
This year I am going to make some slippers from scratch and make a couple of self-drafted patterns. I’ll probably never do it again but I want to have a try
Great idea, Evelyn! 2020 was doing a little bit of needle work, and a lot of purging and donating fabric and notions I will never use. Purged all modern man-made, polyester, etc. clothing and donated. Presently, I work two part-time jobs and also am full time caregiver to my disabled husband. We are awaiting surgery and hopefully things will be better. Future visions are to get out of my stretchy pants and non-descript T-shirts and into some real modern and vintage-style clothing, and made with natural fabrics. Practice crocheting and use to trim clothing. Action plan: Take crocheting to hospital while waiting. Plan my new wardrobe. Work on 1 type of project at a time, but have several to switch around to when I get bored!
In the last lockdown 2.0 I gave myself a goal. I normally alter outfits or transform them into something to suit me. I decided copy my favourite summer dress and sew from stratch. I made my first pattern and took the time and patience to make a mock up which I normally don't do and I was really pleased with it. This gave me more confidence to make the proper garment. I finished it within our 4wk lockdown and this made me feel really good with myself. So now we're in lockdown 3.0 and thinking of other projects including making my sewing corner more adaptable in my bedroom. Gokd luck with all your projects Evelyn xx
I left behind in 2020 my personal sewing- as I've sewn for our group for Domestic Violence...and we were so busy with it- my personal items just stopped sadly..until a friend (from high school 45 years ago- said.."but you used to do so much of your own"!...so I thought to give myself some happy time this year for my personal sewing...Moving house: it's always difficult- I wish you well. My sister moved only 2 months ago (from Brisbane) to Cairns, and she likes it but feels the humidity. Hoping your fabrics will be ok with humidity!!
This was so helpful. I've seen other sewing youtubers talk about their plans for the year but this actually gives structure to help formulate my own. I don't have the answers yet but will have a think, as they say :D
@@Evelyn__Wood BTW, congrats to you on the success of VSS! How amazing that you were able to do so much at all, let alone in a pandemic year! Hopefully your search for your dream home and sewing space is as successful, if not more.
Just finished my sewing book. Great idea! It took some time to achieve but it will be worth it. Thanks for the idea. Am student on your Vintage School...learning so much.
I started sewing late last year and I kind of did what you suggested before I began. I planned a capsule wardrobe inspired by the Gibson Girls of the (very) late Victorian/early Edwardian era and I am working my way through the garments I have planned. So far I have learned to follow a pattern and I have almost completed the mockup of my first item - a pair of combinations. It's been harder than expected because we had to move house in November and I still can't find the pedal for my sewing machine so the entire mockup is hand stitched. At least I got to practice before I have to do the hand finishing on things that will be seen! The plan for the next few months (I work in seasons because I can't be trusted to work in years without getting side tracked) is to make the real combinations from a nice linen I have found, with lace trim. If I can get those done by April then I'll be happy. Then it will be on to the corset 😱
I ageee with the setting aside of time. A few years ago I was hating my sewing because I believed that I had to go from pattern envelope to finished garment in one day. I quit that. Now I do things in stages. Cutting out pattern - might take two sessions. Pinning out on fabric. Cutting it next time. I have a top at the moment and all I have done is the neckband. I’m enjoying it so much more
Past year projects that gave me a sense of achievement: Starting my first proper sewing project, a 50's circle skirt. Only tasks left to do are finishing the hem, adjusting the waistband and sewing on the closure. Present, where I am now: Struggling a bit with the waistband of the skirt, one side is higher than the other and it needs adjusting. Also I need to get the overlap right where the closure will be. I am sewing the hem of the skirt by hand, because I really struggle with topstitching and I don't want this to hold me back with the project. Future, what is my vision for my sewing?: Make vintage and historically-inspired garments for my everyday wardrobe. Don't worry about making mistakes, you learn so much from them! Improve my handsewing and mending skills. Action plan: Continue with Mending Mondays and practise my darning skills. Look up tips for topstitching. Practise sewing tidy hems. Prioritise sewing on Sundays - "Sewing Sundays"! Make a list of garments I want to make.
Your sewing contents are fabulous! ...I've been watching for months now...it's been a great time sitting around with my sewing machine while watching your videos, it helps me to gain confidence in sewing and much more, keep inspiring...lots of love from Malaysia ❤️🇲🇾
The biggest challenge for 2020 was CV19. My cousin and I made masks to donate to the hospital. I thought when we started it would be over by the end of April...May (surely they'll get a grip on it by then) June... July? Nothing. By August I was completely burned out. My cousin was disappointed this was her volunteer work to help the community (something that is very important to her). She doesn't sew and I taught her how to do the prep work.
First of all, THANK YOU for your dedicated service. I can't even make myself make two more masks that my son has asked for yet. Mask-making burnout is real! Secondly, what will you do to restore yourself emotionally and creatively? I can't wait to hear it!
I started sewing. I made this lumpy looking shark. I thought it was bad. But my boyfriend took it , placed it on his desk . Said I love it cause it's the first thing you made. You will only get better from here. So my goals are to get better at sewing so I can make a pinafore. I have been watching all sorts of youtubes and learning. I also need to organize my work area. It hinders me a lot . So my goal is simple and it's to sew my first garment .
I learned to make "appointments" for myself, as if it is a medical appointment and I can't get out of it. Not perfect, but it makes it a LOT easier to say you can't do something because you have a previous commitment. Think of it as "healthy selfishness". This is something that is important to you? Then TREAT as that important!!!
Thank you so much. I just wrote everything down and now it all seems so much more possible. I now feel really inspired and motivated for my own sewing year 2021. Thank you ❤️
My goal this year is find a balance with my work time and creative time. By spending a little time each day furthering a creative project. Some days its been sew one seam. Others its beem just cut out all (or some) of the pattern pieces
Thank you for all of the great tips! I think I finally need to move and reorganise my sewing space. It is a mess! Ps. That blouse is adorable! Love the sleeves and the fabric and the bows 🥰
Hi Evelyn, you are a true entrepreneur as well as gifted craftswoman , well done sister. Im waiting for my electric blue singer to arrive and Ill be joining your school. Im slowly stocking up on things you mention in your vides. I look forward to enrolling. Talk to you soon! #backtobasics #truewoman
Oh, sorry... About sewing projects..I have a few blouses I'd like to refashion. Perhaps I could venture into making a circle skirt (I'm mainly into 1950's fashion), but we'll see... (I'm new to this... I'm a quilter. ) I've been watching your videos for ages but I wasn't sure I could make garments. This year I will give it go ( I haven't made clothes since I was fifteen! so it doesn't really count..) thanks to your inspiration. Thank you Evelyn .
My main action plan goals are 1. Start working playing with the software to create and edit my RUclips channel. 2. Start on basic sewing topics 3. Do simple garment projects 4. Give simple terms when explaining any sewing terms 5. Dedicate time and a set day for sewing and plan what I am going to sew and talk about.
@@Evelyn__Wood your channel is one of my key inspirations especially as I am excited for my birthday this coming Thursday, but also I have looked at vintage sewing patterns from the 1920's-1970's. I love your videos
Thank you for this particular video because it inspired me to create my own goals book for sewing and as of January 16, I have already made three bags in my book which normally would take me months to do. Success!
I've spent a lot of 2020 culling things no longer needed/wanted and this year I plan to have 4 ongoing projects at a time. 1. A hand sewing project - mobile or for couch/movie time 2. a quilt piecing project for when I am in that mood. 3. more sporadic -but an actual quilting project for when I want to do that sort of thing, and 4. a garment project as I had gotten away from my love of garment sewing before last year. I keep projects in those vinyl zippered linen bags when I am doing planning/purchasing so it is easy to grab what I want to work on and all the bits are already together.
Glad to hear from you, I'm glad you are going to take personal sewing time, I'm sure it's a much needed thing, because you are important too, and plus, personal time is a great way to get to refreshed, anyhow, I totally get it! Looking forward to see more of your "refashions" , when the time of a right, and really do hope you get the "house/studio you desire/want", I believe the perfect house/studio will come to you, keep positive thoughts! Your an awesome lady/teacher/instructor and motivator! Have a great evening!
My goal is to get more every day garments that are my style and fit me well, both from my pile of things I need to remake and making things from scratch. The big project of the year (that I started on new year's day) is a winter jacket that goes below my knees in a dark blue wool. I started understanding how things fit me last year and now I want to learn to use that knowledge properly. Linnen chemises also is high up on my list this year. They are really comfortable and will make the life of my dresses longer as I don't have to wash them as often. I also plan to only use things in my stash this year.
Hi Evelyn. No sewing goals as I like to do lots of other things too ! Going to take the time to see what I want, and when I would like to do it. So, try get a framework, some time aside to do things. But no pressures. Setting time aside is THE thing. Thanks for sharing your plans, hope all goes well for you, sure it will though !
PAST: Decluttering enough to have a space for sewing, sorting through all my fabrics and re-homing the fabric I'm definitely not going to use. PRESENT: Organising my sewing endevours so that I sew when I have the energy for it 2021: Repairing and re-fashioning clothes with holes, re-making my favourite clothes in the fabrics I kept. NOT spending money on more fabric! Oh and making a cross-body messenger bag that has all the right pockets and things for the stuff I need to take with me.
My most urgent action is to revitalize my sewing space. We were forced to enact a construction project in our home that left my space in shambles. I literally need to redo the ceiling and floor, and everything in between. Right now I've had to move my working space to my bedroom--ugh!--and what a mess. This year I've spent most of my time making and donating masks, nurses hats, and surgical gowns, but I think I will have to postpone my personal projects once again until I complete the reconstruction of my sewing space.
Evelyn this is so timely! I love the idea of making a “time budget” and sticking to it. A goal my husband and I had last year was to get rid of all consumer debt and we did that by making a budget and sticking to it. I need to do the same thing with my time! Looking forward to getting back in to the swing of things and spending more time engaging with VSS!
Best of luck in dream home hunting! My first home is being rebuilt from the ground up currently and I cant wait to get into my first "sewing only space". These next few years I really want to work on creating my true ideal wardrobe as well as accessory pieces. I also want to make my sewing space flow really nicely.
Oh, you moved. Last year was rough with medical issues and building a space for online vintage shop while living in small space. Cutting my own patterns is what I really want to learn and create a new wardrobe from vintage and toss the sweats! And I love idea of a mood board and will utilize that to plan ahead on sewing this year.
This year I expirementrd with different fabrics and machine sewing needles! Thanks! Also can you make a video about pattern layouts, what is the difference between the straight grain and cross grain if you cut something out? Thanks love your content. X
I've been pretty bad in the past about not sewing what I want to out of fear of ruining fabric and laziness. So, to help this year, I have decided to try the #makeninechallenge because nine makes doesn't sound too daunting to me. Also, budgeting sewing into my budget so I know that I can afford everything I'm buying(im a broke college kid so this is big)
I have several sewing projects in mind, but it'll go slower for me, because i have to do it all by hand. No sewing machine for me! But it'll be fun regardless! Hooray for sewing!!!
I live in a 10 X 10 foot room with cooking space, bed and clothing storage taking it down to about a 5 X 5 foot space for my sewing. Yes, I get very creative when trying to cut out material lol My cutting table is my ironing board with a cardboard cutting board on top and one end stabilized with my small table. Sewing in a small space is challenging but it can be done, although it is a pain to have to put step one away to have room for step 2 lol My main goal for 2021 is to sew me up a pair of jeans and my look back shows me that knowing what you need for the first machine should be well thought out and researched. I bought a brand new machine that will not sew the heavy material so I am off to get a nice old vintage machine today that will handle the heavy stuff.
ron horner - Snap! My room is slightly bigger at 17' x 12' and I don't need to cook in it. But it's still a bit of a challenge what with the bed and the rest of my worldly goods and chattels! LOL! Strangely enough, making a pair of jeans is also my goal for '21. Good luck with the vintage machine: You can't beat them.
Last year I bought a sewing machine from ALDI -yesterday I made a canvas bag with it - I used a heavy duty jeans needle and upholstery thread, I was blown away that my $100 machine could handle the multiple layers of 6 or more on occasion. The right needle seems to make a huge difference! Also needed to turn the tension right up and sewed with a Teflon foot to reduce friction. Not that I would ever stand in anyone’s way if they would like to purchase a new piece of equipment, but maybe your old machine could be ‘encouraged’ to co-operate on a jeans project.
@@shereemckinnon3896 I have a Brother JX1420 and just putting pockets onto a coat liner made the gears jump :( It is great for light clothing and starts to have problems with only 4 layers of denim. I just picked up a Brother machine from the late 50's yesterday and am excited to give it a try but have to remember how to draw the bobbin thread up, lol it has been a while since Granny showed me how
@@EuphemiaGrubb Oh what I would give for even that much extra room lol I would move but I am right on the beach and I would have a very hard time to find such excellent landlords. I am contemplating using the laundry room to have space for cutting out patterns.
This used to be me too. But when I started making plans, writing this down and thinking about a vision to pull me forward (not just tasks to do) is when I start to see progress on my goals! I hope it works for you too! 😘
Tell me, what was your sewing journey this past year? And what is your vision and dreams for 2021 with your with your sewing?
If you want to up your sewing game this year join me and a community of other like minded sewists at Vintage Sewing School www.vintagesewingschool.com/ as I would love to have you in class!
My sewing journey was primarily making things for my infant. While spending a lot of time on you tube learning about vintage and historical sewing and fashion. I'm finally ready to start my journey into the 1890's
I acquired an embroidery/quilting machine, and A NEW SEWING ROOM!!!! I’m so excited to learn my new machine and what it’s capable of. I’ve watched so many of your tutorials, and so many bag making tutorials. Now I’m ready to really develop my skills and use my machines and supplies to their potential.
I aim to learn how to adapt a commercial pattern to fit me. To make bags for gifts, that people want to use. To make toys for babies and toddlers in my life. To branch out into fabulous frightening fabrics
To stop trawling destash sites! Lols.
@Rocco Ali Definitely, have been using instaflixxer for months myself :)
I was making matching Hawaiian shirts for my family for an upcoming cruise, when cruises become a thing again, when I was requested to make a dress for my favorite aunt to be buried in. So now that is my focus and I was embroidering it while watching your channel. This project totally freaks some people out and I can only speak about it openly in our little online sewing community. It is unusual perhaps, but I don't think it is weird. My favorite aunt is 90 and in hospice. She knows her time left on this earth is limited. She wanted a dress with specific details... it must be brown, it must have a collar, it must have 3/4 sleeves and it must have a petticoat to preserve her modesty. I have made the waist and cuffs discreetly adjustable as she is losing weight. It is heartbreaking to lose my aunt, I love her very much. We had just buried my mother in October. But I can't dwell on that... this outfit, her last, will have love sewn in every stitch and to me what greater honor can I be given than to wrap her in my love with the clothes I made for her.
What a lovely thing to do. As you say, sewn with love. Your aunt sounds a truly remarkable lady. 💕
I love this. She will spend eternity wrapped in your love. She has given you a beautiful gift with this request.
My sympathy on the passing of your mother.
Very touching😊
You taught me that the seam ripper is not my enemy, is part of the journey.
I was just gifted around 5 boxes FULL of fabric and went through them today thinking of all the wonderful things I can make this year. Last year was my biggest year of sewing. I accomplished a lot and learned a lot! My family reenacts the F&I war and I hand make a lot of our period correct clothing. I took on learning proper hand stitches and made a waistcoat, shirt, and 2 dresses. I also made a lot of our home items such as napkins, placemats, etc. I completely out did myself when it came to Christmas gifts - I hand made all but 1 of all 4 of my children's gifts: night gowns, jammie britches, baby doll carriers, art tote bags, stuffed animals, aprons and clothing that was much needed. I also made my in-laws luxurious neck pillows.
This years goals so far are to do blankies and booties for all the babies of friends being born this year. I would even like to make matching booties for the expectant parents. I have a goal to sew myself at least 3 dresses using Amish/Mennonite patterns. I will be making my girls their Easter dresses using the Peppermint Swirl pattern, and an Easter outfit for my son with a McCall's pattern I just got. Hmm, thats all I can think of now lol.
This year I am actually moving across the world to an entirely different climate (from Canada to Singapore!) so I decided that it's finally time to be brave enough to cut into my beautiful stash of linen and cotton and make the all dress wardrobe of my dreams.
Yes!! I just moved to the tropics too! I'll also be using all my linen 😀
An Action Plan is so much better than a To Do List. You have inspired me!
Really needed this today. Had a health scare that got me thinking it's time to dedicate time for what I want instead of sewing for everyone else. Just retired from my sewing business at a local laundry after almost 18 years. I still have my full-time job for an accounting firm. Evenings and weekends are now mine.
Scary! But that scary episode created the time for you to construct goals for yourself. Your created the time for yourself. Bravo!
Good luck on finding your dream home.
I have been sewing most of my life but you have added such new insights into the craft. I am amazed at what I didn't know. Thank you for your in depth teaching.
I just love it when you are 'real' and show what you struggle with eg photos of stuff on the floor. It makes me feel so much better when I struggle with my sewing space.
This is a good exercise for clearing the clutter out of my brain. I realized that my #1 goal is to get my current wardrobe to fit.
I've accomplished much over the past few months since i started sewing again after many years away....a quilt and a dress. Unfortuneately my machine is in for repairs right now and looks like it will take awhile. So at present i'm in the planning stage. I plan to make 4 vintage 50's garments over the next year. I also hope to have a serger by the end of 2021. Happy sewing everyone!!!
I love the blouse, the make up (that lipstick!) , the hair, the nails... You're perfect. Thank you for sharing your ideas with us.
I had to rewatch this video because earlier this week I feel asleep!!!! Our cat had woke me up at 3am, I had to work from home and after lunch I watched this episode and took a snooze. Today, I finally rewatched; I was awake while the cat is asleep. My 2020 sewing roadblocks are my new goals for 2021: learn to sew zippers in a more professional manner, REALLY pay close attention to the pattern instructions & follow them and finally, get over the fear of threading my serger. It's sitting there not being used and I sure could use it to finish off projects. I recently cleared out junk and reorganized my studio. I already feel much better sitting here watching sewing RUclips videos and working with my sister in law as we slowly launch our business. Thank you so much for your inspiration and good luck in your new 'temporary home in the tropics'. Being from the 'States, I'm not sure exactly where that is at.
I've been sewing since august 2020. I started with making a quilt, paused on that to make myself a button up shirt (both hand sewn). On Christmas I got a sewing machine. My goals for this year is get better at using my sewing machine, finish the quilt I started, make a skirt for my friend, and more shirts for myself. And other mini crafts like masks and lanyards. Try to sew a couple times a week as well.
My dream is to have my planned sewing room up and running! All I need is the energy to do it!
Wow was this video needed. I've just destashed, reorganized, even bought the correct size stool I've wanted/needed. Husband lowered my sewing table for me...but now what!? Where to start!!! I have a disabled child. I never 'set a schedule' or 'make a plan' because his needs come first & I would end up disappointed I couldn't do what I WANTED TO DO. So! I've learned to roll with it~ be happy with what I can get done when I can. That said, I never finished anything. So with your goals, I'm actually sitting down and focusing on making my time more profitable, & pleasing and trying to figure out how I can incorporate my son in my endeavors. He does go to fabric stores & thrift shops with me - a fatal error on my part as now he loves to shop & I end up tailoring items for him by ways I've learned from you! From a special needs mom, your videos have proven invaluable to someone who can't go out to classes (b4 covid), & have shown me I can do so much more than I originally thought! A child with Down Syndrome has a much different body shape than a typical child. My goal is to complete the 3 quilts I have cut out!! Lofty, yes? Thank you Evelyn!
Thank you so much for this information!! It helps me be more organized to plan my projects. Many times I only have the ideas in my head & I don't always get them done.
I have to write things on paper too, it's a danger zone being stuck in my head!
Being cash-flow strapped in 2019, I sewed nearly all of my Christmas gifts last year for work gift exchange and my 5 grown kids. Hence, I was VERY ready to sew for myself in 2020. I also reorganized my entire sewing area so it's very quickly usable. Bam! I sewed three historical pieces for myself--drawers, a flannel slip with deep cotton lace edging and a long plaid skirt. The rest of the year I enjoyed machine embroidery projects. This year I plan to finish my Martha Pullen Heirloom Sewing Certificate so I can teach when this crazy pandemic has settled down and sew history-bounding skirts and blouses for my job as a teacher. :)
This past year I found your channel, and I learned SO MUCH. Top stitching and Under stitching have already made a big difference to me; I watched the stay-stitching video a little too late, but that was definitely a lightbulb moment for me. Like so many sewists, I made masks, which gave me a huge confidence boost, because I see so many of them, and I realize mine are very well-made. My doctor even told me so!
My hurdles are space and time-related. I hope to soon have a readily accessible machine, although the advantage to taking over non-dedicated spaces with my machine is that then my mister wants my project(s) finished. Haha. My goals for this year are to stop talking and do! I’ll start with the small unfinished things I have around the house. Then I have a friend who will mentor me through the BIG projects, and probably pin me down to just 1, so that I actually finish it and not be in the same place but with different projects next year.
This is the best video I have seen for like a YEAR! Thank you so much for sharing this video, it has helped me and inspired me a lot. Sewing is now going to be my thing, nobody is allowed to bring me down, me do me!
Very inspiring!! Thank you for such a great and uplifting video. Excellent presentation of the planning. Love it!!
Alright here we go!
Where I have been: over the last year I've been slowly gaining confidence in my ability to sew and I've started to understand how to manipulate patterns to fit me. A large part of that was being given a lot of fabric that I wouldn't want to wear (I have an autonomic system issue that makes my body temperature shift drastically so I only wear natural fibers) but they were great to use as mockups.
Problems now: motivation to just sit down and do the thing is my biggest issue. I still have that annoying little voice in my head telling me that it's just a waste of time because it's not going to look good anyway and I find myself listening to it more than I would like.
Vision for future sewing: I want to sew clothes for my everyday wardrobe, feel confident in my skills, learn more hand sewing and embroidery, and try tablet weaving hems onto skirts.
Action plan: for the confidence side of things I have made a good, better, best version of all my projects so I'm not disappointed if I can't manage the absolute best, and I'm going to send progress reports and pictures to my sister and mom who are great cheerleaders to help boost me when I start feeling down. I want to spend 2 afternoons a week sewing, though because of my chronic illness I'm not going to set specific days. I'm going to try my best to not compare myself to others who can sew for more than one hour at a time without pain by interacting more with disabled creator communities to share ideas, tips, and encouragement.
I’m proud of you and I believe you can do it! I too want to sew clothing for my every day wardrobe 💕 luck to the both of us!
Sounds like a great plan. I'm in a similar situation with chronic illness that makes it difficult to set specific days aside. I decided I'm going to sew for 5 hours every week even if it's in 5 minute increments.
Here's to gaining confidence as your sewing skills progress to knock the self defeating vouces out! ❤💪
I love the Good, Better, Best system. I heard of it from Retro Claude in her video on sewing with a disability. It’s been immensely helpful.
Nat this is so inspiring! I love your way of implementing the good better best system. I find this attitude really take the pressure off too. You thought this through well and tailored it to you, so I know you are going to see your sewing dream come true! 😀
NAT;
While I don’t have an autoimmune disease I have had at least three episodes of bleeding in my brain. Before my last aneurysm I was trying to relearn how to sew and take care of my husband who has a lot of medical problems. I have the same problem with my little voice in my head also. Just keep trying to do what you can.
Will do my writing tomorrow. Everyone that said you video is more helpful than others are right. Always need help planning and setting goals. Will post more after completing my written assignment. Thanks so much!
I look forward to it Penny!
My beloved 25 year old machine gave up the ghost at the end of 2020. I have bought a new one which I hope creates as many memories as my dear Janome did 😊
This year I ventured into sewing with different types of fabric than I've worked with before. I'm learning to slow down and get to know the ins and outs of a material rather than rushing to finish a project. My goals this year (inspired by this video and tediously seam ripping while watching it) is to focus on the quality of my garment construction vs quantity. 😉
Evelyn! Thank you so much for your videos. Started sewing handbags a few years ago and I want to try clothing this year. Your channel is the first I've found that's super easy for a beginner like me to learn about terms, tools, garment construction, etc. I can't wait to learn more!
I'm a beginner sewist and what I did this past year was figure out what method I liked to trace my patterns and stocked up on supplies. This next year I want to work on fit with mock ups and learning how to use the new sewing feet that I got for Christmas.
Past year: had basic skills from my mom. Bought sewing machine about 5 years ago. Made no projects. Last February started making masks for family . Very rewarding to make them their “first masks” to help protect them. Very appreciated. Then others wanted them, I did it but pressure mounted. Had to stop. No time for self since provided 7 day a week childcare for two grandchildren d/t COVID restrictions. Present: Grandchildren just started daycare so want to work on some goals. Future: 1 projects for the home like pillows and curtains. 2 Make a sundress for self I started 2years ago. 3 make time to see 2 hours per week. Thank you Evelyn. Love your channel. Very inspiring. Love vintage!
LOL. My "list" of goals is to sew a bunch of aprons to give away. The new thing will be to learn to sew ruffles and to sew ruffled aprons so much that I become comfortable and confident sewing them.
That doesn't sound like much of a list. However, I want to make a tiny list because a long list with deadlines would feel overwhelming and discouraging.
P.S. Everyone liked the pillowcases that I sewed and gave away as December 2020 gifts. If anyone had said something bad, I would have just told them to return it so that I could give it to someone who appreciated it.
I will be retired this Feb, after 50+ years of working, raising a family, & trying to do projects for my sewing! I have sewn full wedding wardrobes, prom dresses, alterations, but My projects never quite fit Me, the way I wanted! My goal this year, Because I have time now is to work on my talent for Me! I made a dress form & realize how Helpful it is! I am taking time to do the work also, that’s quite different too! Thank you for your time in helping us Enjoy sewing!
I love your emphasis on process. One of the things I found when listing roadblocks was just getting up and getting started, in the mornings. That's something I intend to work on - though I will have a starter set of projects to work on, because I've immediate need for them. In the big picture, my goal is to slowly start building up the wardrobe I actually want, piece by piece. I also want to work on working from historical patterns and pad stitching, which I've *seen* in abundance but haven't actually *done*.
My sewing resolution is to sew 1 good garment per month.. :) one of which is going to be a wool and flannel Coat.
Sonya I can't wait to see your 12 garments at the end of the year! 😀
Last year: Achievements: I slowed down, focused on the details and finishing. I gave myself compassionate deadlines and goals that didn't require me sewing during every bit of free time (This was aided by the fact that I wasn't going anywhere.). Roadblocks: I had some serious motivation issues, being in lockdown and all my plans being obliterated really hampered my desire to be creative. This also caused a lot of projects getting started but not finished because the motivation disappeared. Sleeves also continued to be my bane.
Present: Other than my persistent lack of a dedicated sewing space, my only major roadblock is time.
Future: In 2021, I focused on continuing to be detail oriented and learned how to do piping. I improved my skills in pattern drafting and made an item for someone from the block up. I finished organizing and cataloguing my massive fabric hoard and notions. I finally found the confidence to get two professional photo shoots done of projects.
Action plan: Dedicate at least one weekend day a month and one evening a week to focus solely on sewing. Catalogue any incoming fabric and notions. Practice, practice, practice. Schedule photo shoots instead of pushing them of to the "next" project.
So here we go: Last year I started some projects but finished none of them. There are three pieces that are sitting on my sewing table right now, that I just need to finish. Like you, I moved house and my sewing room isn’t. So. - Right now, I need to finish setting up my new sewing space. Finish the three pieces I started and take apart a piece I did finish last year, but I don’t like the finish. This year I put together a beautiful organized sewing space. I worked hard on my hand sewing techniques and learned how to alter and then make traditional lined kimono from scratch. I dedicated time every day to improving my technique and set aside one evening a week to cut and one evening a week to sew. I reviewed my entire wardrobe, including my history bounding and my traditional Japanese wardrobe, and planned new pieces to fit, or complete kitsuke (styling). Etc.
Your video inspired me to run out and get myself a binder and dividers to organize my ideas for 2021. I gave myself enough dividers to organize ideas for other categories as well as sewing like self-care activities and household projects that I want to tackle this year. It gives me something concrete to do to get the year started since there are so many things going on in the world that are out of my control.
I only just started a few months ago but I already knew the basics ,but I have found that patience is the best medicine for any project , thank you Evelyn for a reminder as to planning for the future, 👍🏻
I don't need many new pieces for my wardrobe because clothes last me a very long time. Classic styles, quality fabrics, etc.. The outfit I need is something conservative and respectful for... well 2020. You know what for. I found an XL maxi skirt at a thrift store to refashion. However, my Janome stalled and does nothing but flash a variety of error messages, so I'm currently saving up to get it repaired. Last year I mostly sewed grocery tote bags for the food bank, and baby blankets for the children's hospital.
I truly love your personality, sewing style, teaching skills, channel and inspiration. Thank you so much.
Thank you for this video! When I watched it for the first time I was really down and dissatisfied with my sewing - or rather the chaotic nature of me doing stuff in general - so I needed a few evenings to slowly weed through my mind and identify the problems. I've finished now; it took 3 pages in my journal, but I'll try to share the gist of it with you all.
Past year's sewing: I only bit the bullet and started doing this seriously - read: with commitment - in March or April (before that I would get my machine out maybe once a year). The biggest project actually came right after that: I was asked to make a skirt with a romantic/historical vibe as a surprise gift for a dear friend of mine. I took the challenge and made a long half circle skirt with a wide yoke and lacing (since I didn't know the exact measurements, it had to be adjustable; I copied that from a skirt I own). I also embroidered the yoke - a new skill as well. It wasn't perfect, but it came out really beautiful and I'm still proud of myself :) (you see - I just had to brag) Then I did some smaller projects, in knits too.
Problem: I found myself easily getting overwhelmed and discouraged when problems I hadn't forseen (bc of my lack of experience) would arise, which often made me drop a project for a couple of weeks. Then I'd get frustrated abt how long it all took, and I wouldn't even remember what I wanted to do anyway.
By this time next year: I will have created various garments, from skirts and dresses through comfy stuff (t-shirts & leggings) to outer wear. I want to focus on bodices, fitting and drafting/altering patterns to fit. I see myself as a sewist who is confident and aware of their set of skills and thus able to identify potential problems before the damage is done.
Plans: 1) I will keep a proper sewing journal (I did that for the first project but I've abandoned it since), with numbered pages and an index. 2) I need to supress my "figure everything out by myself" side a bit, because not only is this approach too time-consuming, but also I might not be learning the right lessons. There might be better solutions than mine within Google's reach. So: try to solve the puzzle, but check the solution before cutting into fabric. 3) I will not let myself obsess over a new idea when I should be working on the project at hand. I need to focus more. 4) I want to figure out a specific drafting system from the 50's, I have the special ruler for this and patterns drafted by (and for) a person who attended the course on that method in 1960, but no specific instructions (maybe I can find some online). This is a very interesting and exciting puzzle especially as I'm very inspired by the constumes in Queen's Gambit right now and want to sew almost everything that Beth wore ;)
P. S. Evelyn, I absolutely adore your blouse. Am I guessing right that below the yoke, the sleeves are cut in one piece with the rest of the blouse?
This year I discovered crumb quilts. They check a lot of boxes for me because they are scrappy, and they are an easy type of art, and they're thrifty. A big hurdle for me is affording fabric, so sewing a big wardrobe is out. But I can make miniature quilts, doll sized, and hang them as art on my walls. It satisfies a need I didn't even know I had, to be creative and hang up some art of my own in my house.
In the UK they have something called a Make Nine Plan - you decide what nine garments you want to make for the year.
I’m so happy!! I did my biggest project for new years eve! Loved the outcome and have to thank your videos for that. Thanks so much!!
Last year: most challenging was a tailored jacket. This year: Order! I’m starting to sort my fabric stash, into what I want to make with each. For projects starting soon, deciding on and ordering patterns / buttons / zips / threads and putting everything for a project together in a bag will hopefully stop me procrastinating as I’ll have no excuse as everything together. (I say hopefully...)
Smart idea about gathering everything for the project in one place.
I'm taking on a Tailored coat this year..
I catalogued all my fabrics on an app. It tells me what the fabric is and how much of it I have and where in the house it’s stored. Very useful. If I get more, I add it to the app before it goes in the cupboard.
@@trishgrant2715 what app is this? I’m using old fashioned record cards
@@carolmichell4860 stash star fabric
My plan was to finally make a dress form in 2020. It got sidelined by making masks, while I started making making masks after I graduated community college in May. Once I started making masks a friend suggested making a mask scraps quilt. While watching different mask making videos one showed how to make as 1800s inspired scarp quilt. Quilt in a day Ha, ha, ha. I got (5) 7.5" squares made before my classes at the 4 year University started. December 31 two classmates got engaged I've cut the fabric for their gift I just need to bind it. I purchased a same themed gift to go with it. I did make about 200 mask and distributed them about , and made a long braid for the scrap quilt in 2020. I hope to finish the mask scraps quilt, bind that blanket and get that dress form made.
This has really helped me to narrow down what era I am going to learn first in VSS for this year. I am going to get a whiteboard so that I can see my year goals and action plans on the wall of my sewing room. If I put it in a book, or planner. I will forget about it.
Yes I need this, my sewing stuff is a mess and festivities are over, family back to school and work soon, time to start planning.
Since I'm brand new to sewing this year, my only goals, currently, are to become good enough to be able to start making my own clothes & to learn how to take garments or other fabric pieces & rework them. I love the idea of recycling fabric & other related items, including thrift store finds, as much as possible before going out to buy brand new material.
Thank you for this video and the great tips. During lockdown I have been converting an extra bedroom to a sewing studio. So happy it's finally done! I'm looking forward to spending time there.
I have been collecting Folkwear patterns for (40+) years. This year I want to make garments from those patterns and focus on exquisite craftsmanship in the construction.
I've struggled with patterns not fitting well and having a very hard time adjusting them. This year I've learned that I need to size down for my narrow shoulders and hopefully that will solve my major fit issues. My goal for 2021 is to make more of my wardrobe and hopefully have it be more efficient with less alterations. I'm going to be focusing on easy to wear items so I can wear mostly items I've made. This month I'm also being realistic on my mending pile and donating items I know I'll never actually refashion or have the time to do. This will make my sewing space less crowded and nicer to be in.
Thank you Evelyn for this video! I had already made out my "top 10 goal list" for 2021 when I watched this, but it hadn't occurred to me to create an actual Action Plan. Duh! Have done so now and am on my way to making my goals a reality. Ta da!
Excellent! I'm excited for your sewing this year! 😀
This has been great, Evelyn. Thank you so much; so helpful.
I definitely have some direction now for the year ahead.
I'm glad to hear that!!
SNAP! I just shared a video of my 2021 sewing goals too!
I DEFINITELY agree that the time frame for sewing is always the hardest part to plan for.
This year I am going to make some slippers from scratch and make a couple of self-drafted patterns. I’ll probably never do it again but I want to have a try
Great idea, Evelyn! 2020 was doing a little bit of needle work, and a lot of purging and donating fabric and notions I will never use. Purged all modern man-made, polyester, etc. clothing and donated. Presently, I work two part-time jobs and also am full time caregiver to my disabled husband. We are awaiting surgery and hopefully things will be better. Future visions are to get out of my stretchy pants and non-descript T-shirts and into some real modern and vintage-style clothing, and made with natural fabrics. Practice crocheting and use to trim clothing. Action plan: Take crocheting to hospital while waiting. Plan my new wardrobe. Work on 1 type of project at a time, but have several to switch around to when I get bored!
In the last lockdown 2.0 I gave myself a goal. I normally alter outfits or transform them into something to suit me. I decided copy my favourite summer dress and sew from stratch. I made my first pattern and took the time and patience to make a mock up which I normally don't do and I was really pleased with it. This gave me more confidence to make the proper garment. I finished it within our 4wk lockdown and this made me feel really good with myself. So now we're in lockdown 3.0 and thinking of other projects including making my sewing corner more adaptable in my bedroom. Gokd luck with all your projects Evelyn xx
I left behind in 2020 my personal sewing- as I've sewn for our group for Domestic Violence...and we were so busy with it- my personal items just stopped sadly..until a friend (from high school 45 years ago- said.."but you used to do so much of your own"!...so I thought to give myself some happy time this year for my personal sewing...Moving house: it's always difficult- I wish you well. My sister moved only 2 months ago (from Brisbane) to Cairns, and she likes it but feels the humidity. Hoping your fabrics will be ok with humidity!!
This was so helpful. I've seen other sewing youtubers talk about their plans for the year but this actually gives structure to help formulate my own. I don't have the answers yet but will have a think, as they say :D
I'm glad you found it useful I need this kind of structure around anything I do! happy sewing planning!
@@Evelyn__Wood BTW, congrats to you on the success of VSS! How amazing that you were able to do so much at all, let alone in a pandemic year! Hopefully your search for your dream home and sewing space is as successful, if not more.
Just finished my sewing book. Great idea! It took some time to achieve but it will be worth it. Thanks for the idea. Am student on your Vintage School...learning so much.
I started sewing late last year and I kind of did what you suggested before I began. I planned a capsule wardrobe inspired by the Gibson Girls of the (very) late Victorian/early Edwardian era and I am working my way through the garments I have planned.
So far I have learned to follow a pattern and I have almost completed the mockup of my first item - a pair of combinations. It's been harder than expected because we had to move house in November and I still can't find the pedal for my sewing machine so the entire mockup is hand stitched. At least I got to practice before I have to do the hand finishing on things that will be seen!
The plan for the next few months (I work in seasons because I can't be trusted to work in years without getting side tracked) is to make the real combinations from a nice linen I have found, with lace trim. If I can get those done by April then I'll be happy.
Then it will be on to the corset 😱
I ageee with the setting aside of time. A few years ago I was hating my sewing because I believed that I had to go from pattern envelope to finished garment in one day. I quit that. Now I do things in stages. Cutting out pattern - might take two sessions. Pinning out on fabric. Cutting it next time. I have a top at the moment and all I have done is the neckband. I’m enjoying it so much more
Past year projects that gave me a sense of achievement: Starting my first proper sewing project, a 50's circle skirt. Only tasks left to do are finishing the hem, adjusting the waistband and sewing on the closure.
Present, where I am now: Struggling a bit with the waistband of the skirt, one side is higher than the other and it needs adjusting. Also I need to get the overlap right where the closure will be. I am sewing the hem of the skirt by hand, because I really struggle with topstitching and I don't want this to hold me back with the project.
Future, what is my vision for my sewing?: Make vintage and historically-inspired garments for my everyday wardrobe.
Don't worry about making mistakes, you learn so much from them!
Improve my handsewing and mending skills.
Action plan:
Continue with Mending Mondays and practise my darning skills.
Look up tips for topstitching.
Practise sewing tidy hems.
Prioritise sewing on Sundays - "Sewing Sundays"!
Make a list of garments I want to make.
Your sewing contents are fabulous! ...I've been watching for months now...it's been a great time sitting around with my sewing machine while watching your videos, it helps me to gain confidence in sewing and much more, keep inspiring...lots of love from Malaysia ❤️🇲🇾
I've been thinking about organizing my goals and my projects.
So this is so timely!!!
Yay!!! New year, new goals and new projects!! 😀
The biggest challenge for 2020 was CV19. My cousin and I made masks to donate to the hospital. I thought when we started it would be over by the end of April...May (surely they'll get a grip on it by then) June... July? Nothing. By August I was completely burned out. My cousin was disappointed this was her volunteer work to help the community (something that is very important to her). She doesn't sew and I taught her how to do the prep work.
First of all, THANK YOU for your dedicated service. I can't even make myself make two more masks that my son has asked for yet. Mask-making burnout is real! Secondly, what will you do to restore yourself emotionally and creatively? I can't wait to hear it!
I started sewing. I made this lumpy looking shark. I thought it was bad. But my boyfriend took it , placed it on his desk . Said I love it cause it's the first thing you made. You will only get better from here. So my goals are to get better at sewing so I can make a pinafore. I have been watching all sorts of youtubes and learning. I also need to organize my work area. It hinders me a lot . So my goal is simple and it's to sew my first garment .
Now that is so sweet and supportive! ❤
What a great boyfriend. Sounds like he’s a keeper!
I learned to make "appointments" for myself, as if it is a medical appointment and I can't get out of it. Not perfect, but it makes it a LOT easier to say you can't do something because you have a previous commitment. Think of it as "healthy selfishness". This is something that is important to you? Then TREAT as that important!!!
Thank you so much. I just wrote everything down and now it all seems so much more possible.
I now feel really inspired and motivated for my own sewing year 2021. Thank you ❤️
My goal this year is find a balance with my work time and creative time. By spending a little time each day furthering a creative project. Some days its been sew one seam. Others its beem just cut out all (or some) of the pattern pieces
Thank you for all of the great tips! I think I finally need to move and reorganise my sewing space. It is a mess! Ps. That blouse is adorable! Love the sleeves and the fabric and the bows 🥰
Great idea. I really need to do this with all my fabric remnants I’ve been collecting on sale. 🥰 and not just for sewing.
Hi Evelyn, you are a true entrepreneur as well as gifted craftswoman , well done sister. Im waiting for my electric blue singer to arrive and Ill be joining your school. Im slowly stocking up on things you mention in your vides. I look forward to enrolling. Talk to you soon! #backtobasics #truewoman
Yay congratulations Evelyn, so happy to see you happy about your new journey with your love!!
Thank you so much!!
I wanne finish my 8 ufo's. Than plan what i need in a Nice planner. Enjoy all the steps to get happier organist.🤩💗
Oh, sorry... About sewing projects..I have a few blouses I'd like to refashion. Perhaps I could venture into making a circle skirt (I'm mainly into 1950's fashion), but we'll see... (I'm new to this... I'm a quilter. ) I've been watching your videos for ages but I wasn't sure I could make garments. This year I will give it go ( I haven't made clothes since I was fifteen! so it doesn't really count..) thanks to your inspiration. Thank you Evelyn .
My main action plan goals are
1. Start working playing with the software to create and edit my RUclips channel.
2. Start on basic sewing topics
3. Do simple garment projects
4. Give simple terms when explaining any sewing terms
5. Dedicate time and a set day for sewing and plan what I am going to sew and talk about.
Wonderful!! Will if you look at this list everyday and just do one small thing each day, you will be light years ahead this time next year!
@@Evelyn__Wood your channel is one of my key inspirations especially as I am excited for my birthday this coming Thursday, but also I have looked at vintage sewing patterns from the 1920's-1970's. I love your videos
Thank you for this particular video because it inspired me to create my own goals book for sewing and as of January 16, I have already made three bags in my book which normally would take me months to do. Success!
I've spent a lot of 2020 culling things no longer needed/wanted and this year I plan to have 4 ongoing projects at a time. 1. A hand sewing project - mobile or for couch/movie time 2. a quilt piecing project for when I am in that mood. 3. more sporadic -but an actual quilting project for when I want to do that sort of thing, and 4. a garment project as I had gotten away from my love of garment sewing before last year. I keep projects in those vinyl zippered linen bags when I am doing planning/purchasing so it is easy to grab what I want to work on and all the bits are already together.
Yes!! you can do it!
Glad to hear from you, I'm glad you are going to take personal sewing time, I'm sure it's a much needed thing, because you are important too, and plus, personal time is a great way to get to refreshed, anyhow, I totally get it! Looking forward to see more of your "refashions" , when the time of a right, and really do hope you get the "house/studio you desire/want", I believe the perfect house/studio will come to you, keep positive thoughts! Your an awesome lady/teacher/instructor and motivator! Have a great evening!
I need to learn to see to make a particular dress I can no longer buy that is the staple of my wardrobe. 🙊
This is good news, as you can real good at making the same several times!
My goal is to get more every day garments that are my style and fit me well, both from my pile of things I need to remake and making things from scratch. The big project of the year (that I started on new year's day) is a winter jacket that goes below my knees in a dark blue wool. I started understanding how things fit me last year and now I want to learn to use that knowledge properly. Linnen chemises also is high up on my list this year. They are really comfortable and will make the life of my dresses longer as I don't have to wash them as often. I also plan to only use things in my stash this year.
😀 A jacket is a great project to challenge yourself on! Good luck!
Hi Evelyn. No sewing goals as I like to do lots of other things too ! Going to take the time to see what I want, and when I would like to do it. So, try get a framework, some time aside to do things. But no pressures. Setting time aside is THE thing. Thanks for sharing your plans, hope all goes well for you, sure it will though !
PAST: Decluttering enough to have a space for sewing, sorting through all my fabrics and re-homing the fabric I'm definitely not going to use.
PRESENT: Organising my sewing endevours so that I sew when I have the energy for it
2021: Repairing and re-fashioning clothes with holes, re-making my favourite clothes in the fabrics I kept. NOT spending money on more fabric! Oh and making a cross-body messenger bag that has all the right pockets and things for the stuff I need to take with me.
My most urgent action is to revitalize my sewing space. We were forced to enact a construction project in our home that left my space in shambles. I literally need to redo the ceiling and floor, and everything in between. Right now I've had to move my working space to my bedroom--ugh!--and what a mess. This year I've spent most of my time making and donating masks, nurses hats, and surgical gowns, but I think I will have to postpone my personal projects once again until I complete the reconstruction of my sewing space.
It's a great place to start, I find I need tidy orderly space to work properly. Have fun with the sewing space make over!
I have to organize my stuff daily
Evelyn this is so timely! I love the idea of making a “time budget” and sticking to it. A goal my husband and I had last year was to get rid of all consumer debt and we did that by making a budget and sticking to it. I need to do the same thing with my time! Looking forward to getting back in to the swing of things and spending more time engaging with VSS!
I love the way you put it as a time budget, as it is! And congratulations!
Best of luck in dream home hunting! My first home is being rebuilt from the ground up currently and I cant wait to get into my first "sewing only space". These next few years I really want to work on creating my true ideal wardrobe as well as accessory pieces. I also want to make my sewing space flow really nicely.
Lovely videos...thank you so much.
Oh, you moved. Last year was rough with medical issues and building a space for online vintage shop while living in small space. Cutting my own patterns is what I really want to learn and create a new wardrobe from vintage and toss the sweats! And I love idea of a mood board and will utilize that to plan ahead on sewing this year.
Such good advice 😊, thank you
This was so helpful thank you!
Ive made simple tablerunners tiny squares
This year I expirementrd with different fabrics and machine sewing needles! Thanks! Also can you make a video about pattern layouts, what is the difference between the straight grain and cross grain if you cut something out? Thanks love your content. X
I've been pretty bad in the past about not sewing what I want to out of fear of ruining fabric and laziness. So, to help this year, I have decided to try the #makeninechallenge because nine makes doesn't sound too daunting to me. Also, budgeting sewing into my budget so I know that I can afford everything I'm buying(im a broke college kid so this is big)
I have several sewing projects in mind, but it'll go slower for me, because i have to do it all by hand. No sewing machine for me! But it'll be fun regardless! Hooray for sewing!!!
I live in a 10 X 10 foot room with cooking space, bed and clothing storage taking it down to about a 5 X 5 foot space for my sewing. Yes, I get very creative when trying to cut out material lol My cutting table is my ironing board with a cardboard cutting board on top and one end stabilized with my small table. Sewing in a small space is challenging but it can be done, although it is a pain to have to put step one away to have room for step 2 lol My main goal for 2021 is to sew me up a pair of jeans and my look back shows me that knowing what you need for the first machine should be well thought out and researched. I bought a brand new machine that will not sew the heavy material so I am off to get a nice old vintage machine today that will handle the heavy stuff.
ron horner - Snap! My room is slightly bigger at 17' x 12' and I don't need to cook in it. But it's still a bit of a challenge what with the bed and the rest of my worldly goods and chattels! LOL! Strangely enough, making a pair of jeans is also my goal for '21.
Good luck with the vintage machine: You can't beat them.
Last year I bought a sewing machine from ALDI -yesterday I made a canvas bag with it - I used a heavy duty jeans needle and upholstery thread, I was blown away that my $100 machine could handle the multiple layers of 6 or more on occasion. The right needle seems to make a huge difference! Also needed to turn the tension right up and sewed with a Teflon foot to reduce friction. Not that I would ever stand in anyone’s way if they would like to purchase a new piece of equipment, but maybe your old machine could be ‘encouraged’ to co-operate on a jeans project.
@@shereemckinnon3896 I have a Brother JX1420 and just putting pockets onto a coat liner made the gears jump :( It is great for light clothing and starts to have problems with only 4 layers of denim. I just picked up a Brother machine from the late 50's yesterday and am excited to give it a try but have to remember how to draw the bobbin thread up, lol it has been a while since Granny showed me how
@@EuphemiaGrubb Oh what I would give for even that much extra room lol I would move but I am right on the beach and I would have a very hard time to find such excellent landlords. I am contemplating using the laundry room to have space for cutting out patterns.
@@ronhorner4060 Sounds like you have the perfect set up, especially being on the shore!
Ooh I never get all my dream sewing done. How timely.
This used to be me too. But when I started making plans, writing this down and thinking about a vision to pull me forward (not just tasks to do) is when I start to see progress on my goals! I hope it works for you too! 😘
I have a few, I don’t want to bore you...🤣; zippers, machine feet, pattern making,... sew much to do, so little time!
thank you! great video
No goals...I just sew anything everyday 😊