I think it's very important to label your clothes. Not only does it make you feel proud to see your brand grow, but it's a good reminder for care instructions, which side is the back of the garment for easy dressing, and a place to note the year you made it, which I think is a very useful detail for my own garment history reviews of style, fit, or fabric wear over time.
Scissors for fabric only - it's the law! When my son was young & brought a gf home to spend school holidays with us, she asked, "Any house rules I should know about?" he answered "Just don't touch Mum's sewing scissors". LOL.
A helpful tip on the term of making a mock up. Do not buy Muslin fabric as we all know it can be quite pricey still. Go to a thrift store and buy a old sheet set made of fabric similar to the fabric of your finished garment (I.e. woven fabric buy a Cotton percale woven set knits a jersey knit set). A king flat can give you 5-6 yards and can be found for about 5$
Gabriel Tobias I used to do this but recently was told that it wasn’t the best idea because the fibers in used sheets are so worn from washing for years and years.
@@Jemnifur It's not like you'll be wearing the mock-up, right? in any case, you can pay attention to the condition it is in - touch it and don't buy it if it feels too fragile. in any case, it will be cheaper than at the fabric store. ;)
Prewash your fabric!!! There can be coatings on the fabric, your fabric could shrink or discolor, and it's heartbreaking if it happens after all your hard work. Use the same setting in your washer that you'll use after you make your garment, and iron it (and the pattern pieces) when you get ready to work. It's so worth the effort!
I think a very important habit is to label all your clothes. Custom commercial labels are great, but even a bit of folded cloth is better than nothing. It helps you instantly identify the back of your clothes, which helps with dressing, as well as being a point of pride for you to see that you are developing your own brand. On the label I like to put not only my name/signature/identifying mark, and any important care instructions for the garment, but also the year I sewed it. Knowing the year can help you retrace your steps and review how you've grown as a designer/seamstress, and can be useful in determining how well a garment or fabric holds up over time. Noting the particular source of your fabric or pattern would be a detail for the sewing notebook though, because it would be more than would easily fit on a label. But labeling the year it was sewn can help identify the garment in the notebook as well. ("White tee shirt 2018" is way more descriptive than without the date because surely we all sew several versions of our favorite, most-worn garments, right? But there may be details of style or fabric on each one that we want to particularly remember.)
Great idea!! I keep records of everything with the pattern I make. And of course, add my logo label! But you could easily make your own care label just like you say!
I really like this tip! Or we can do so digitally these days ;) take a pic of the finished garment and then saving it somewhere with details of fabric. We can keep the notebook too, or make digital files/documents and write there care instructions and stuff.
My husband had a hard time believing that using scissors on paper would make them not work well on fabric. Well, I did a demonstration, showing him what a pair of scissors used on paper did on fabric versus my fabric-only scissors. He was shocked, and is now a total believer!
When sewing with young children (or anything else that may cause interruptions) cut all you pattern pieces, mark the wrong side of each piece with a fabric pencil if it isn't obvious which side is which and then hang all the pieces together on a hanger. When ready to sew grab the pieces you need and go. Often all I can do is a seam here or a collar there, a couple buttons holes or maybe a hem before having to pack away and tend to someone but each stitch is a stitch toward completion and eventually I finish... and then start something new 😅
#1 - completely agree about the scissors, #2 - I have a magnetic wrist pin holder, #3 - definitely agree if I am making a garment out of expensive fashion fabric (we use the term "make a muslin" in the USA) I always make a mock up so I can make alterations, #4 - I never cut am original pattern, I always trace it so I can reproduce the original, #5 who the heck would not read all the instructions first - sometimes they leave an important instruction until the end. If I were to add anything I would suggest that one should: #1) Use the correct needle for the fabric you are sewing (so many problems can be solved by just using the correct needle) and start each project with a new needle. #2) If it is a specialty fabric, check your owners manual (or the on-screen recommendation if you have an electronic machine) for the recommended tension adjustment of both thread tension and presser-foot pressure. #3) Make sure you are using the correct bobbin for your machine (in my store people who have older machines try to put the improper bobbin in their new machine and cannot understand why the stitch is not right - trust me - it happens). #4) When you are changing thread cut it at the spool and pull it forward through the needle - do not pull it backward through the tension disks! If you pull it backward you are just pulling any link which might have been made into your tension mechanism. #5 Clean out your bobbin case on a regular basis (like, after every sewing session or, depending on the material, during your sewing session). #6 Do not use canned air to blow into your machine! When our repair technicians clean machines they do use compressed air - but the covers are off. If you blow air into an intact machine you are simply blowing lint deeper into the mechanisms: USE YOUR LINT BRUSH AND VACUUM CLEANER (sorry for shouting)! #7 Use quality thread. In the 21st century people have come into our shop with thread that were on wooden or Styrofoam spools and wondered why the thread was breaking. Folks, thread has not been sold on Styrofoam or wooden spools since the last century. #8 Do not store your sewing machine in a garage, attic, barn or shed (trust me, we have seen it). #9 If your project is a machine embroidery project use the correct stabilizer. #10 When making buttonholes make sure you stabilize your fabric to prevent puckering.
Wonerful comments!! Yes, I also learned my universal needle is NOT all that universal! Yes, yes...do not rip thread out of machine! I was told it leaves fuzz, lint and probably "other" AND messed with the tension. Another thing I USED to do...thread my needle, or try to, with the pressure foot DOWN!! LOL! No wonder I had frustrations!
@@bobbiedurham5010 I was taught by technician to cut thread at spool, raise presser foot, and needle, then pull the excess thread out of machine through the needle. Takes more time, but saves your machines tension disk. Also only turn the hand wheel toward you to prevent throwing the machine's timing off. Which would mean a trip to the repair shop.
You ask who would not read the whole instruction first? Me. I have orderes my first pattern today, and my plan was to start at the beginning, and read as I progressed. ;) Thanks for all of your tips.
My mom is teaching me how to sew. And one of the biggest lessons we both learned yesterday was to lock up the dogs when we sew! My highly intelligent jack Russell enjoys stepping on the foot pedal to hear the noise of the sewing machine, the first time we thought it was and accident...the second time not so much. But it’s a big safety issue.
yes. try to keep pets away from the sewing place, at least while sewing -this includes while tracing the pattern and cutting it/the fabric. The last thing you want is them sitting on the the stuff (especially paper), and then suddenly get up and run and see their claws ruined said paper.. eeeek!
Sapphire Camui she loves sitting on my paper, she loves sitting on my fabric, she steals my embroidery work, and she love to take my pin cushion (and take all the pins out) and use it as a chew toy. I have to either lock her up or wait for my husband to come home! Have you had this issue?
@@larabryan1112 Oh my! I don't own dogs, so no :( I did foster a puppy some 5 years back, and she was teething, and she chewed my undies, a warm cream i was using for back pain o.o and i forgot what else. i wasn't at home when all this happened and i was under the impression those items are out of reach. I guess, you need to put those things as high as possible, out of her reach...
A few others I find helpful: Select fabric from the list of suggested fabrics on the pattern envelope and make sure to have all required notions on hand prior to beginning a project. Don't skip steps like basting, stay stitching, understitching, interfacing, and pressing. Refrain from rushing, walk away momentarily if experiencing difficulty, enjoy the sewing process, avoid being overcritical and be proud of your makes.
Pressing your seams as you go is so important. It makes the look of your garment looks so much more 1st class plus it saves time from the steps to come. NEXT but not leasr, rip out your mistakes. Don't be satisfied thinking oh it doesn't matter. It does matter. You'll have such pride in your garment and it'll look better
Finish your seams! I've just made a pair of pants and was so excited about it looking great on the outside, but on the inside the seams will probably fray away in a few washes, yikes! Finishing them now is not an option anymore, what a shame!
I iron all my pattern pieces so I don’t have the original fold lines; but I DO fold them individually and place then between the folded instruction booklet and then slip them in the envelope!
I press my pieces and then fold them and put everything (pieces, instructions and pattern envelope into a zipper lock bag. Life is too short to try to stuff everything back into the too small space!
My grandma always ALWAYS read and take notes on on your pattern instructions. Also fold and put you patterns in freezer bags so to contain the crazy refolding job.
I’ve been sewing for 53 years. I follow all those rules all my sewing years. One important habit I learnt at sewing school years ago was... sit up straight at your sewing machine. A haunched back is not a good look... good posture is so important
Habits that I should learn: cut the threads. Like I have so many threads just hanging from my clothes and it makes my professional looking fancy pants look like I just came back from war. Don't skip out on basting stitches. When I started I would always cut corners and not baste but when I actually had to do it for the first time it was so handy and easy. Baste your stuff. Speaking of cutting corners, clip your corners and notch your curves. These techniques exist for a reason, don't worry, the fabric won't start fraying and disintegrating if you finish off your seams nicely with hemming, overlocking, pinking, bias tape or whatever else. New needles please! I used to avoid changing needles until I breake one. Those days have changed when I actually learned a bit more about needles and thanks to Evelyn I now know about needle sizes and when it is ready to say goodbye to your poky companion🙏. Iron your seams!! It is tedious but it's worth it. Especially on French seams and hems and understitching and collars and stitches in ditches and everything! If you take time out of your day to blow dry, curl or flatten your hair, then take the time to iron your garments. But most importantly: Measure yourself and the pattern before you sew! I recently made a pair of pants 4 sizes too big because I overestimated my waist. Just take a string, tie it around the smallest part of your belly then take a measuring tape, measure your waist, wrap it from your front waist to your crotch, from the crotch to the back waist line, then the inner and outer leg seam. That's it. Now find the closest pattern and adjust it to yourself. Your body should not adapt to the pattern, the pattern should be adapted to you. And I am very guilty about fabric and paper scissors since I once caught my father using my fabric scissors for gardening. (I'm about to use his hedge clippers for surgery if he wants to go ahead and misappropriate more of my stuff)
😂 Love the scissors comment!! And all these habits in fact! You are so right, when start 'I dont need to baste' and 'won't it just fray if I clip into the fabric' 🤣🤣 Oh we definetly learn! I'm very glad you change the needle now!!
✨In Japan 🇯🇵 we have funerals for needles😌✨. We just do not go putting sharp things in our garbages ⚠️ but we sort of ask certain temples to do that for us. They served us well, we add some thank you prayers to them and the “I am sorry to let you go../ [it is still “mottainai” ] feelings/ Sorry for craftsmen who made needles” feelings” all go away at ease. With the relief that with temple’s responsibility, sharp things are destroyed for sure💮. Konmari like...? Yes💗. All the stuffs Konmari says are just “common senses everyone do” around here🗾 and so many Japanese rare jealous of her success, haha!
@@aosanshou that is so sweet! I only was aware of places where you can give old razor blades but I was never aware that you had a system for needles. I am sure you know those tomato chilipepper pincushions, the small chillipepper is actually there to sharpen your needles, you just have to poke it in there a few times. But sadly it doesn't work on my sewing machine needles. I actually have a little collection of broken or blunt needles because I like to remember how they broke and how much they served me. I have a little journal saying "Jersey 90: broke because you sewed a thick polyester fabric with batting with the wrong needle." I should be more careful with that because I could have sworn I used a universal one but apparently I didn't :'(
Clipping corners truly depends on how you tuurn a garment out. I did a test on a pajama top for my grandson, one was clipped corner, the other front piece was not clipped using the press hold and fold method as you turn it out. And guess what I discovered? That the press hold and fold method turned out a much crisper finish to the corner than the clipped and turned out method did. And I did not even need to noodle around with it to get it to come all the way out before I pressed the corner down. Now, on a bag with four corners to deal with, definitely unless you can fit your entire hand inside, to fold and press the corner seam allowances together, then snip those and turn as the old methods describe. But watching some of the old timers, that worked at sewing manufacturing plants, and other fast paced sewing jobs, Thats how they worked out those things.
Hi Evelyn, I like to habitually cover my machines every single time I'm done. We create so much dust in the sewing space and dust is such an enemy of mechanics! I have to agree with you about pattern folding lol! I'm always so upset when I find a vintage pattern and it's all crumpled in the envelope!
I knew I had reached a milestone in my sewing education when my sewing mentor (aka my wife) allowed me to use her sewing scissors. it was like being allowed to handle Excalibur. I pity the fool who would even think of cutting paper with them!
Anna-Marie here. I have been sewing for over 60 years. all the habits are great and all sewers should follow and use them. i absolutely agree with you and your followers.
Yep, I do all of those, and I'll add another one. On the pattern envelope, I will circle the size l used, so that next time I buy/use a pattern from the same company, I know what size l am, as sizing is not standard within the pattern world !
I like to keep my primary colors of white black and neutral sewing machine bobbins fully wound with tread at all times. As soon as I finish one, I have another one ready to continue sewing!!!❤️🧵❤️🧵
All theese simple advice seem obvious, and yet hearing them again is never a loss of time. Up to now I admit that I didn't read completely the explanations of a pattern for I wanted to finish the work as soon as possible. And as I am a beginner I had to redo it again and again. Into the bargain I have to hide my scissors because my husband is Always trying to steal them to cut no matter what. My favourite habit is that of a sewing notebook, and I am very proud to say that mine is very old because I have Always written many things about sewing. Thank-you for this video Evelyn !!!
One new habit I have gotten myself into is the agreement that I can use any fabric in my stash for any project that it’s suitable for. I have a habit of buying fabric with only a vague idea what I want to use it for like make a dress, skirt or shirt but if I keep waiting for the perfect project to come along for this piece of pretty fabric then guess what? It never happens! So no fabric is immune to project enlistment, there will always be more fabric. Maybe even one you will love better.
I recently removed and donated all of the fabric that was taking up space in my sewing room. It was hard, and since Covid, I wished that I had saved some of it. The fabric just sat there waiting for a project that never happened, so it was time to purge. Now, I want to look for decent natural fabrics to use but won't buy unless I actually have an Idea of what I am going to make.
YES to pattern/tracing labeling & numbering! .... But in ADDITION, add a photograph into that same bag of your finished product for future reference. THX for your videos! We love them!
I am a beginning sewer . I did not iron the seems down . This caused me some definite problems with lining up pieces. So point taken and next project will be ironing as I go
Yes, ironing is important when sewing. Also, just a suggestion as you mentioned you're new to sewing. Do a search for the different ways to do seams and practice them too. Even if you have a Serger (Overlocker), not all seams can be finished/neatened up with one, so to me, it's important to learn how to do a variety of different seams and have that professional look. :)
Hi Evelyn! My favorite sewing habit is always do a mock-up or toile first. Words to live by. You can do all your tweeks and adjustments before cutting into your precious fabric and risk the chance of ruining it. Lol! I have to fold my patterns up along the same lines too.
The other reason to make a muslin/toile is that sometimes even with the correct adjustments a pattern just doesnt look good on you. I made a muslin of a jacket once that looked so bad I tossed the pattern and the muslin and chalked it up to experience. The fabric I saved from this awful pattern was expensive and would have been a huge disappointment for me.
When sewing children’s pants I put a different coloured tab onto the back seam so it’s very quick to identify the back of the garment when putting it on.
I am a newbie. I love to walk. One of the way before I unfold my map is to mark the foldings. This is how I do it... When you open the first fold, mark both sides of the fold a ''A'' and at both ends of the fold. It goes on to ''B'' for the next unfolding and so on. When you want to fold, look for the last alphabet and bring the two last alphabets of one end together and do the same for the other end. Continue till alphabet ''A''. Bingo, done!
Spent the time and money to customize a dressform to your measurements. Such a help! And actually take new accurate measurements on a regular basis. Don’t use the ones from a year ago, before you gained 10 pounds...and yes, I‘ve eben guilty of doing this myself at times. Sewing clothes in the hopes, you’ll quickly loose that weight again, is even more stupid, than buying stuff, that’s too small! I‘m keeping up with Mending Monday, btw. This week, I repaired the lining of a bag 😀
Yay!!! I realized I forgot to post here about Monday Mending! Thankyou for tge reminder!! It's definetly worth having a manniquin and padding her up to your measurments!! 😀
In addition to penciling notes on the pattern instructions about sewing techniques, I also like to add an index card with notes, ideas, swatch (scrap) of fabrics used, and a picture of final product. I don’t always do this. but, I ALWAYS regret not doing it. I also keep a plastic container with a flip top, like a tic tac, mint, or gum container, to place sharps (bent or broken pins, needles...) into. For spent rotary cutting blades, an Altoid’s tin is perfect. Not to mention, it is easy to affix a strong magnet to the back of the tin and stick to shelving supports to keep it out of the way yet handy.
A good habit I would recommend is to always press your seams once you're done sewing them! And I loved the video! I dont know which habit I would say was my favorite, I think making a mock up and then reading the instructions all the way through. 😬😄
When I have a few minutes to spare or just don't feel like sewing, I spend some time filling bobbins in different colours. It is great to have them on hand when your bobbin runs out instead of interrupting your project to thread a bobbin.
So many great tips and habits - please read all the comments because they are excellent. One really important tip please, for all who have cats. Please, please do not leave pin cushions, loose pins/ containers of pins, etc. out when you are not able to "supervise". Cats seem to love not only batting at them but they have been known to pull the pins and needles out of them and I have heard terrible stories of veterinary emergencies, surgeries and death. I forgot one day, was hand sewing in front of the TV, walked away for a couple of minutes and came back to one of my own cats chewing and pulling at the pins in the cushion. Had a minor panic attack, husband and I grabbed the cat, forced his mouth open to make sure he didn't already have a pin lodged in his throat. I imagine the same can very quickly happen if you have dogs. They all love to grab things into their mouths. Leaving pins out is so dangerous for our pets, things can turn terrible so quickly.
Mock ups is mine. I always buy cheap sheets from the op shops for this reason. I am a very large woman. The vintage patterns i like are usually a very small size. Thus i have to upsize the pattern to fit me. Once i have a well fitting muslin, i make my new pattern from that.
I truly enjoy your videos, they are so informative. One thing I haven’t heard mentioned as a tip/ rule (forgive me if I missed it) always, always, ALWAYS wear good sturdy shoes when sewing. A lost/dropped pin or needle can go right through flimsy shoes and into your foot requiring surgery... as a nurse I see this more often than you think.
I like to run some lengths of hand sewing thread through beeswax and iron them and thread them onto needles before I start hand sewing, I am always tempted to skip this and regret it when the thread knots, I keep some most-used colors like black,white and red threaded up like this, it only takes a minute and sitting down to hand sew and realizing you have not done this is so annoying.
A habit I need to do is not throwing threads on the floor but have a little box to hold loose threads. They can be recycled to make another project! A friend is going to show me how to make a scarf with all my colorful threads!
My habit is putting all of my equipment in the same place every time I use it. And when finished sewing clean up the space at the end of the day even if you are in the middle of a project. Keeping your work space is critical!!!
I started making swatch cards for the different types of fabrics that suit a pattern. Not all fabrics work with all patterns. It helps when you are learning about fabric.
Fortysomething BadGirls , I ordered so many sample fabrics as new again to sewing, I’ve not sewn for about 30 years, have made shirts jackets Trousers etc, so I need to learn more about all the different fabrics , and how they hang and feel against skin. Xx
I have started folding the pattern pieces with the company name and pattern number and piece number on top, so that I can find the pieces I am looking for without unfolding the whole thing again and again.
My tips are - before start making a garment, always write down what I want to add to the garment( bias binding on the hem, piping around the neck etc) on a sticky note and attach it onto the instruction paper. - make a mock-up. - keep sewing space clean and clutter-free - if possible, do some research on the pattern you are going to use, see what other people think of this pattern( some patterns are bad-drafted , or running larger /smaller than the sizing instruction printed on the envelope) - always put pins back to the pin cushion, never leave them on the counter/work space just in case they fall on the floor and you accidentally step onto them 😭😭😭 And I need to make a pin cushion bangle for myself asap. It’s so useful .
Thank you for another excellent video! My favorite of these tips is writing complete info on each piece of the pattern I’ve traced and using a 2 gallon size ziplock bag. That’s large enough to hold the original pattern, the new one and even fabric samples.
Evelyn, thanks so much for all your lovely tips and videos! I learn so much from watching you and you are such an inspiration! Please keep them coming! Oh, and I especially enjoy your garment renovation videos. I'm not very good at doing them myself, yet, but I'm learning from you! Have a wonderful day!
My favorite is to label everything. And yes, I agree with you, patterns must be folded and put away properly so I can fit more patterns in my limited space. Not folding them causes unnecessary bulk.
Habits that I should practice is no pin in the mouth ... even if I have 2 lovely pin cushion I always put some pins in the mouth .... I know it's bad ... and a good habit I've taken recently: make me forms with a sample of the fabrics I have in my stash, with the footage, the "care code" (washing, ironing ....), where I bought the fabric and how much it cost. so I can check in my binder what fabrics I have and if have enough to sew my project
Reading completely through the pattern instructions first is so very important and labeling the pattern pieces making all notes especially changes that you have made to the pattern piece for next time. I also keep a notebook/diary for sewing with all of my ideas, what I liked, what I didn't like, what changes I made or would make if I make it again.
I enjoyed this, Evelyn, thanks! My fave habit is "No pins in the mouth" this is super important! I'm still at work on developing this as a habit after reading about someone swallowing a pin! Ugly! Same applies to screws and nails for those of us who also dabble in DIY building or renovation.
One habit I always do is when I get up from my machine I turn it off. It's easy to get sidetracked and forget to come back to turn it off. So when I get up from the machine I turn it off that way my little fur babies running around won't be accidentally sitting on the foot pedal especially if you have something on the machine your not going to end up getting some damage to your fabric or something else.
Yep! One of them is the singer slant needle 403. And the only reason I know I because I have it and I spent a LONG time looking for the power button the first time I set it up!!
Never rush a sewing project, take your time & if you get frustrated or confused take a break and come back to it a little later on. Always read the manuals on any new machine that you buy, even if it's a brand etc that you're familiar with. When I have finished sewing for the day, I put scrap fabric under my footer & place the needle in the lowest position. If I am storing or taking my machine somewhere I remove the needle.
Evelyn - Love your "Habits" and "Tips" videos. I have recently returned to garment construction and have fallen in love all over again. Thanks to you I am now taking the time and making a muslin for every new pattern and I'm also keeping a journal that goes w me every time I go to the store. It helps me to keep track of pending projects, and to match fabrics, thread, and notions. There are other tips, but these have been game changers! And I love a commenter's tip on prewinding bobbins! Saves precious time and frustration. I really don't like running out of bobbin thread in the middle of a seam and having to stop to wind a bobbin.it's
I definitely agree about the folding. I do the same with maps. I realize there are many people who have never seen/used a map, but there it is. I tend to obsess about clipping threads. I usually clip after sewing each seam. (I just noticed a similar comment from "Not Me") I have some cool little scissors handy to clip as I go. :)
I know what you're saying about maps, they must be folded exactly as they were when first bought. Some of the topographical maps that I have purchased haven't been folded, so they would get rolled up & put into tubing, never to be folded. Patterns are the same with me, they must be folded properly each time after being traced'/used.
Just now sent a link to this video to a friend of mine who wants to learn to sew ... these are 5 excellent habits to cultivate ... shhh, I need to practice the one about pins in the mouth.
I stopped after I accidentally jabbed my lip trying to put wrong end of pin in mouth ( not paying close enough attention, as pins in mouth was a habit).
Numbers 4 and 5 are probably my favorites. also, I am trying to into the habit of finishing my seams as I go. I would add that to the previous list's #3 habit , trim, press, and finish seam as you go. It will save you a lot of trouble
Love your tips Evelyn - makes me happy when things you recommend i already do and things I don’t already do, I try to adopt them into my sewing. And, definitely NOT a scrunched 🤓🤓🤓. Thank you 🙏
When I trace patterns (which I always do) as well as pattern number, piece number and markings etc I always add the date, the size I traced and all the alterations I made.
Place a large sheet of thin paper on the table and put your pattern on top of it. Draw around it - that is tracing. You now have a copy of the pattern which keeps the original pattern in good condition.
Good habit : take brakes during your sewing. You need to eat, drink, change position, talk to someone, kiss your husband or hug a cat. There are many things we suppose to do, sewing is not a whole world. We make just a clothes, our families, friends and our health is more important.
Just started to sew and signed up for your free class! Very excited, I hope in the future I will be able to follow a dress pattern! Greetings from Sweden!
my fave is the pins, it's similar to one I wanted to mention, though it's more for hand sewing or when you're doing any hand stitching (I prefer handsewing so this is a habit I learned early on (but I apply this to pins too). Get into the habit of putting your needles, pins, etc in a cushion, through a scrap piece of fabric, etc where you won't lose them! No one likes the mini heart attack you experience when you can't find a tiny sharp object lurking anywhere where you might step on it later or an animal or child might come by step on it or worse. I'm still a beginner, but I learned this early on for both me and my precious pup. If it's a handsewing needle, also consider getting into a habit of leaving a tiny bit of thread on the end until you're absolutely done with the needle. It's doesn't have to be anything crazy, but just enough that if you do drop it, it's easier to spot it than trying to find it on the floor by eye or pick it up by magnet (which I, unfortunately, don't have and 9/10 have to find by eye and retracing steps, so I try to stop unthreading my needle completely until I'm 100% done with my project or the needle for the day). This doesn't mean keep threading and unthreading, but rather keep whatever you used last threaded until you're completely done and/or it's completely put away safely. Last is if you're forgetful keep a small mental checklist of what you have out, maybe I just have bad luck with needles, but my sister accidentally left a sewing needle in my bed, I slept on it and got poked in the morning (she swears it isn't hers, but I don't own the type of needle she was using. I got a new needle out of it though!).
While working in a costume shop during college I learned to always press your pattern pieces before cutting, especially when sewing intricate vintage garments. To return them to their packaging, press into shape with the pattern number and piece number facing outside. Line them up in order and return them to the packaging nested within the packaging. This makes revisiting a favorite pattern a joy.
I always read my pattern instructions through first but not just to avoid mistakes. Sometimes I find a little efficiency here or there, steps that are divided to make written instructions easier to understand but once you get an over all view I might be able to batch some actions to save me time.
One habit that I think is very very important is to use your Iron. I see so many sewing tutorials be it garment construction or quilting they dont use an Iron. I iron my fabric after pre-shrinking it before laying out the pattern. It is so much easier to match plaids , patterns and to get a more accurate cut when the fabric is smooth. I also iron the pattern before laying it out. And I iron after every line of stitching twice once to set the stitches and then to press open the seams or to press them into the direction I need them. Just found your channel last night and even though I am an advanced seamstress I totally enjoy your videos! Thanks for sharing your talent with us.
I agree 100% with the ironing. Just recently one of my housemates asked me why I iron so much whilst sewing, (as she said she can't see how ironing would make a difference). We decided to make the same thing (very easy project), I did mine with ironing, she did her's without. When she compared them, she got it. :)
I like your edition more. I can tell it's more thought through and didactic whereas this one is random. Good, but random. Love what you're doing with your channel and thank you from the bottom of my heart, we need more considerate people like you xx
I Especially like the bonus habit! I read that comment on your other video and took notice as well. (many brilliant tips and habits for a newbie like myself - so lovely to read them all!) Because of that comment I started a sewing journal as I was making my very first garment at the time (only a month ago!) I made loads of mistakes on my first project but somehow this didn't bother me at all as I can feel the mistakes are making me improve.
I haven't touched a sewing machine since middle school (horrible teacher, esp for me). Though I don't see myself getting into dressmaking I am watching your guides so I can avoid certain mistakes entirely. I appreciate your content.
First, I just found you and I already love you! This is a habit I had to correct because I have cats now. They love to hang out in my room although I do try to keep them away from my fabrics. This habit is to pick up all those straggling threads that litter your work. One late night we heard this god awful scream from my kitty who got caught up in a tangle of threads that wrapped around her legs....she wasn’t happy at all. Since then, no more incidents as I clean before I leave my projects...always!
I'm in Love with your channel. Thx for all the tips! Especially the habits. They're my new mantra I'm a beginner and your videos make tmy fears and frustration easier to handle
I don't have the ability to fold everything back the same way it arrived in the envelope. So I iron or press the tissue before placing on fabric, then I try to re-fold so I can get everything in the envelope, which never works ( but I do try ) then envelope and all neatly pressed pattern pieces are placed in a page protector .
I was never taught to make a mock up of the garment I was going to make. My mother would help me fit the pattern pieces to me before we pinned and cut out the pattern. Something I forgot years ago, and ended up with a blouse that turned out too large. Now I know what to do with those new sheets we bought that don't fit our bed!
Re the toile/muslin, I know a lot of people just don't want to do 'twice the work' so they avoid it, but I think beginners & even quite a few non-beginners don't understand *why* a toile is essential to making a well-fitted garment from a pattern you've never used before (or even from one you've not used recently). I saw a novice make this common mistake; she cut out all the pattern pieces with (e.g.) size 10 printed on them, not knowing that pattern size & dress size at the shops are not necessarily the same. She was also unaware that the basic pattern should be altered to fit her own measurements, so didn't adjust the pieces or make a toile to ensure they fit her, then consequently, she cut her garment using the basic pattern. I'm sure this happens to many more beginners than we imagine & that they give up sewing, disappointed & positively clueless about what went wrong. It could really be worth doing a short vid for newbies on what to do *before* you cut your expensive fabric, Evelyn. You know, just to explain the process & that the pattern envelope doesn't contain a complete paper garment, that the pattern still needs to be fitted your measurements, then we do the toile/muslin in something cheap (like muslin lol) to make sure it all fits & so that we don't waste our $89AUD per metre Silk Georgette by just cutting round the basic pattern pieces - but I'm sure you would explain it much better :)
Excellent advice. Am still guilty of putting the occasional pin in my mouth, but am trying hard to rid myself of that. I now usually put a magnetic pin holder next to me while I'm sewing. The log's a great idea; have just discovered a pretty, blank book while decluttering, and have designated it as my sewing journal. I'll be writing in as many tips as possible.
You look so pretty today. Always do however... Thank you for help with and encouragement in sewing. I am just getting back to sewing. Fashion is exciting and when we can refashion an item, that is very exciting. Doing a mock up first is something that impressed me today.
One habit I'm trying to establish is to prep for the next day. Clean up the area, put things by the door to carry to another room if necessary, make notes for yourself as reminders of what you need next. I also always put my machine cover back on, because I don't earn an income with my machine so don't necessarily sew every day. I clean and oil at the beginning of every session... my machine loves one little drop of oil on the hook every day. It purrs when I do that.
I would buy fabric then get too busy to sew. After a while I would forget which pattern I was going to use. I now use a 2.5 gallon zip lock bag to put my pattern, notions and fabric along with any notes I may need. It works great
All fantastic tips..Read the pattern all the way through first...which i feel overwhelmed if i do..my brain does get over loaded and i will put it away if i do. Have always done this with all instructions. So i do one instruction at a time.
I know you're right, but geeze Louise!! I don't know if I could ever not put the pins in my mouth 😬. My grandmother did, i learned from her, and it's just second nature!
I use kitchen shelf liner underneath my pedal to keep it from sliding. I also trace my pattern pieces onto non-woven fabric (the kind used on the bottom of sofas). It keeps the pattern intact, allows me to transfer all notes, and gives me one run through of cutting out the pieces and pinning it together to check for needed alterations.
I always refold my pattern peces on the original lines, and set them between the folded instrucitons. They fit back into the envelope so much better if you take the time to do this.
I bought sheffield steel scissors they are exquisite and they live in the box even though my children are grown .. they always knew my fabric scissors were only for fabric lol
My favourite tip is to read the pattern through first. I very rarely do and then make mistakes and wish I had. I am going to work at doing this one. I just get to impatient to start. Slow and steady wins the race 😂🐌🐌🐌
I once had a set of instructions that ended with “But first”, I am just starting to use this tip. I have always been one to rush into just making it but as I start sewing again after many years I am trying to get into good habits.
Thanks for the awesome tips! Also watching this video I couldn't help but think I was looking at a real life princess Snow White! I wish I could look like a modern version of a Disney princess.
I hope you enjoyed this 5 MORE good habits!😀 Be sure to let me know below which is your favorite, and other good sewing habits of yours?
I liked all of the good habits.
I think it's very important to label your clothes. Not only does it make you feel proud to see your brand grow, but it's a good reminder for care instructions, which side is the back of the garment for easy dressing, and a place to note the year you made it, which I think is a very useful detail for my own garment history reviews of style, fit, or fabric wear over time.
I agree!! I keep records of everything!!
Scissors for fabric only - it's the law! When my son was young & brought a gf home to spend school holidays with us, she asked, "Any house rules I should know about?" he answered "Just don't touch Mum's sewing scissors". LOL.
@@Evelyn__Wood I agree with keeping everything labeled and ALWAYS read the entire guide sheet before starting!
A helpful tip on the term of making a mock up. Do not buy Muslin fabric as we all know it can be quite pricey still. Go to a thrift store and buy a old sheet set made of fabric similar to the fabric of your finished garment (I.e. woven fabric buy a Cotton percale woven set knits a jersey knit set). A king flat can give you 5-6 yards and can be found for about 5$
Thanks Gabriel, I even use my husband old t-shirts, old pillowcase, etc.👍
Gabriel Tobias I used to do this but recently was told that it wasn’t the best idea because the fibers in used sheets are so worn from washing for years and years.
@@Jemnifur It's not like you'll be wearing the mock-up, right? in any case, you can pay attention to the condition it is in - touch it and don't buy it if it feels too fragile. in any case, it will be cheaper than at the fabric store. ;)
Gabriel Tobias wow! Never thought of that! Thanks, I’ll try that as soon as I run out of the stuff I have.
That’s what I have been doing.
Prewash your fabric!!! There can be coatings on the fabric, your fabric could shrink or discolor, and it's heartbreaking if it happens after all your hard work. Use the same setting in your washer that you'll use after you make your garment, and iron it (and the pattern pieces) when you get ready to work. It's so worth the effort!
Yes, iron the pattern pieces too! The folds and wrinkles can affect the size and not fit well with the piece it attaches to.
I agree 100%
@@bobbiedurham5010 The paper pattern pieces you buy in the packets?
@@fashunpuss6279 yes
@@bobbiedurham5010 AND the FABRIC too!
Agree! Very important!
I think a very important habit is to label all your clothes. Custom commercial labels are great, but even a bit of folded cloth is better than nothing. It helps you instantly identify the back of your clothes, which helps with dressing, as well as being a point of pride for you to see that you are developing your own brand. On the label I like to put not only my name/signature/identifying mark, and any important care instructions for the garment, but also the year I sewed it. Knowing the year can help you retrace your steps and review how you've grown as a designer/seamstress, and can be useful in determining how well a garment or fabric holds up over time. Noting the particular source of your fabric or pattern would be a detail for the sewing notebook though, because it would be more than would easily fit on a label. But labeling the year it was sewn can help identify the garment in the notebook as well. ("White tee shirt 2018" is way more descriptive than without the date because surely we all sew several versions of our favorite, most-worn garments, right? But there may be details of style or fabric on each one that we want to particularly remember.)
Great idea!! I keep records of everything with the pattern I make. And of course, add my logo label! But you could easily make your own care label just like you say!
I really like this tip! Or we can do so digitally these days ;) take a pic of the finished garment and then saving it somewhere with details of fabric. We can keep the notebook too, or make digital files/documents and write there care instructions and stuff.
Adding the year is a great idea! Kind of like a painting... after all.. clothes are art too!
@@AliciaGuitar Exactly! What could be more artistic than the way we design our own wardrobe? And all artists evolve over time.
One habit I had to make for myself was never to sew when tired! That's how I made most of my mistakes - they were just caused by tiredness.
My husband had a hard time believing that using scissors on paper would make them not work well on fabric. Well, I did a demonstration, showing him what a pair of scissors used on paper did on fabric versus my fabric-only scissors. He was shocked, and is now a total believer!
Me, who can barely sew a button back on: yes these are good tips
Keep a clean sewing space 👏👏👏
When sewing with young children (or anything else that may cause interruptions) cut all you pattern pieces, mark the wrong side of each piece with a fabric pencil if it isn't obvious which side is which and then hang all the pieces together on a hanger. When ready to sew grab the pieces you need and go. Often all I can do is a seam here or a collar there, a couple buttons holes or maybe a hem before having to pack away and tend to someone but each stitch is a stitch toward completion and eventually I finish... and then start something new 😅
That's a good tip. Diana Rupp recommends that in Sew Everything Workshop, the best book for learning.
I simply leave the patterns on the cut out pieces! Until I sew them together. I don't have a huge amount of space anyways, so it works for me.
I have my fabric scissors and have threatened all family members with maiming, but I have my super-secret fabric scissors hidden away.
😂😂😂 Not weird at all! Perfect plan! 😀
Familia and fabric scissors...grrrrowl is basically what you have to do!🤨
I hide my scissors too and leave a decoy pair out for others to use when they feel tempted 😁
i guess it's time i buy 2 more pairs of shears now.. just in case. ;P great tip!
lsealey20 buttonhole scissors!
My mom always MADE me fold the patterns back the way they came out of the envelope. After 60 years, I still do it!
#1 - completely agree about the scissors, #2 - I have a magnetic wrist pin holder, #3 - definitely agree if I am making a garment out of expensive fashion fabric (we use the term "make a muslin" in the USA) I always make a mock up so I can make alterations, #4 - I never cut am original pattern, I always trace it so I can reproduce the original, #5 who the heck would not read all the instructions first - sometimes they leave an important instruction until the end.
If I were to add anything I would suggest that one should:
#1) Use the correct needle for the fabric you are sewing (so many problems can be solved by just using the correct needle) and start each project with a new needle.
#2) If it is a specialty fabric, check your owners manual (or the on-screen recommendation if you have an electronic machine) for the recommended tension adjustment of both thread tension and presser-foot pressure.
#3) Make sure you are using the correct bobbin for your machine (in my store people who have older machines try to put the improper bobbin in their new machine and cannot understand why the stitch is not right - trust me - it happens).
#4) When you are changing thread cut it at the spool and pull it forward through the needle - do not pull it backward through the tension disks! If you pull it backward you are just pulling any link which might have been made into your tension mechanism.
#5 Clean out your bobbin case on a regular basis (like, after every sewing session or, depending on the material, during your sewing session).
#6 Do not use canned air to blow into your machine! When our repair technicians clean machines they do use compressed air - but the covers are off. If you blow air into an intact machine you are simply blowing lint deeper into the mechanisms: USE YOUR LINT BRUSH AND VACUUM CLEANER (sorry for shouting)!
#7 Use quality thread. In the 21st century people have come into our shop with thread that were on wooden or Styrofoam spools and wondered why the thread was breaking. Folks, thread has not been sold on Styrofoam or wooden spools since the last century.
#8 Do not store your sewing machine in a garage, attic, barn or shed (trust me, we have seen it).
#9 If your project is a machine embroidery project use the correct stabilizer.
#10 When making buttonholes make sure you stabilize your fabric to prevent puckering.
Wonerful comments!! Yes, I also learned my universal needle is NOT all that universal!
Yes, yes...do not rip thread out of machine! I was told it leaves fuzz, lint and probably "other" AND messed with the tension.
Another thing I USED to do...thread my needle, or try to, with the pressure foot DOWN!! LOL! No wonder I had frustrations!
THANKS for pointing out the proper way to change the thread - I’ve been unknowingly damaging my tension disks. Yikes!! No more!
@@bobbiedurham5010 I was taught by technician to cut thread at spool, raise presser foot, and needle, then pull the excess thread out of machine through the needle. Takes more time, but saves your machines tension disk. Also only turn the hand wheel toward you to prevent throwing the machine's timing off. Which would mean a trip to the repair shop.
@@jojosewist8921 Great tip! Thanks.
You ask who would not read the whole instruction first? Me. I have orderes my first pattern today, and my plan was to start at the beginning, and read as I progressed. ;) Thanks for all of your tips.
My mom is teaching me how to sew. And one of the biggest lessons we both learned yesterday was to lock up the dogs when we sew! My highly intelligent jack Russell enjoys stepping on the foot pedal to hear the noise of the sewing machine, the first time we thought it was and accident...the second time not so much. But it’s a big safety issue.
Oh my! 😨 Definetly a no no! But what cleaver little pooch!
yes. try to keep pets away from the sewing place, at least while sewing -this includes while tracing the pattern and cutting it/the fabric. The last thing you want is them sitting on the the stuff (especially paper), and then suddenly get up and run and see their claws ruined said paper.. eeeek!
Sapphire Camui she loves sitting on my paper, she loves sitting on my fabric, she steals my embroidery work, and she love to take my pin cushion (and take all the pins out) and use it as a chew toy. I have to either lock her up or wait for my husband to come home! Have you had this issue?
@@larabryan1112 Oh my! I don't own dogs, so no :( I did foster a puppy some 5 years back, and she was teething, and she chewed my undies, a warm cream i was using for back pain o.o and i forgot what else. i wasn't at home when all this happened and i was under the impression those items are out of reach. I guess, you need to put those things as high as possible, out of her reach...
Keep cats away too! They will chew on thread. If they ingest it, it can tear their intestines. 😧
A few others I find helpful: Select fabric from the list of suggested fabrics on the pattern envelope and make sure to have all required notions on hand prior to beginning a project. Don't skip steps like basting, stay stitching, understitching, interfacing, and pressing. Refrain from rushing, walk away momentarily if experiencing difficulty, enjoy the sewing process, avoid being overcritical and be proud of your makes.
Laura Jones In other words, never be lazy and take shortcuts! Good one!
@@UsterKoolageArt Take only the shortcuts that you KNOW VERY WELL will work.
Pressing your seams as you go is so important. It makes the look of your garment looks so much more 1st class plus it saves time from the steps to come. NEXT but not leasr, rip out your mistakes. Don't be satisfied thinking oh it doesn't matter. It does matter. You'll have such pride in your garment and it'll look better
Finish your seams! I've just made a pair of pants and was so excited about it looking great on the outside, but on the inside the seams will probably fray away in a few washes, yikes! Finishing them now is not an option anymore, what a shame!
I iron all my pattern pieces so I don’t have the original fold lines; but I DO fold them individually and place then between the folded instruction booklet and then slip them in the envelope!
Arrrrr perfect!!! Then you don't have that madness of re-folding to deal with!! 😀
That's exactly what I do. They go in so neatly.
Ditto!
I press my pieces and then fold them and put everything (pieces, instructions and pattern envelope into a zipper lock bag. Life is too short to try to stuff everything back into the too small space!
I do the same thing.
Our home economics teacher taught us to neatly groom ourself before a project. It created a good attitude.
My grandma always ALWAYS read and take notes on on your pattern instructions. Also fold and put you patterns in freezer bags so to contain the crazy refolding job.
I’ve been sewing for 53 years. I follow all those rules all my sewing years. One important habit I learnt at sewing school years ago was... sit up straight at your sewing machine. A haunched back is not a good look... good posture is so important
RIGHT ON! Because you'll tire out faster. Make sure your machine is not too low or too high.
Bobbie Durham
I like to stand up and sew. A small stand up desk that can be adjusted is perfect.
Habits that I should learn: cut the threads. Like I have so many threads just hanging from my clothes and it makes my professional looking fancy pants look like I just came back from war.
Don't skip out on basting stitches. When I started I would always cut corners and not baste but when I actually had to do it for the first time it was so handy and easy. Baste your stuff.
Speaking of cutting corners, clip your corners and notch your curves. These techniques exist for a reason, don't worry, the fabric won't start fraying and disintegrating if you finish off your seams nicely with hemming, overlocking, pinking, bias tape or whatever else.
New needles please! I used to avoid changing needles until I breake one. Those days have changed when I actually learned a bit more about needles and thanks to Evelyn I now know about needle sizes and when it is ready to say goodbye to your poky companion🙏.
Iron your seams!! It is tedious but it's worth it. Especially on French seams and hems and understitching and collars and stitches in ditches and everything! If you take time out of your day to blow dry, curl or flatten your hair, then take the time to iron your garments.
But most importantly: Measure yourself and the pattern before you sew! I recently made a pair of pants 4 sizes too big because I overestimated my waist. Just take a string, tie it around the smallest part of your belly then take a measuring tape, measure your waist, wrap it from your front waist to your crotch, from the crotch to the back waist line, then the inner and outer leg seam. That's it. Now find the closest pattern and adjust it to yourself. Your body should not adapt to the pattern, the pattern should be adapted to you.
And I am very guilty about fabric and paper scissors since I once caught my father using my fabric scissors for gardening. (I'm about to use his hedge clippers for surgery if he wants to go ahead and misappropriate more of my stuff)
😂 Love the scissors comment!! And all these habits in fact! You are so right, when start 'I dont need to baste' and 'won't it just fray if I clip into the fabric' 🤣🤣 Oh we definetly learn! I'm very glad you change the needle now!!
✨In Japan 🇯🇵 we have funerals for needles😌✨. We just do not go putting sharp things in our garbages ⚠️ but we sort of ask certain temples to do that for us. They served us well, we add some thank you prayers to them and the “I am sorry to let you go../ [it is still “mottainai” ] feelings/ Sorry for craftsmen who made needles” feelings” all go away at ease. With the relief that with temple’s responsibility, sharp things are destroyed for sure💮.
Konmari like...? Yes💗. All the stuffs Konmari says are just “common senses everyone do” around here🗾 and so many Japanese rare jealous of her success, haha!
@@aosanshou that is so sweet! I only was aware of places where you can give old razor blades but I was never aware that you had a system for needles. I am sure you know those tomato chilipepper pincushions, the small chillipepper is actually there to sharpen your needles, you just have to poke it in there a few times. But sadly it doesn't work on my sewing machine needles.
I actually have a little collection of broken or blunt needles because I like to remember how they broke and how much they served me. I have a little journal saying "Jersey 90: broke because you sewed a thick polyester fabric with batting with the wrong needle." I should be more careful with that because I could have sworn I used a universal one but apparently I didn't :'(
Clipping corners truly depends on how you tuurn a garment out. I did a test on a pajama top for my grandson, one was clipped corner, the other front piece was not clipped using the press hold and fold method as you turn it out. And guess what I discovered? That the press hold and fold method turned out a much crisper finish to the corner than the clipped and turned out method did. And I did not even need to noodle around with it to get it to come all the way out before I pressed the corner down. Now, on a bag with four corners to deal with, definitely unless you can fit your entire hand inside, to fold and press the corner seam allowances together, then snip those and turn as the old methods describe. But watching some of the old timers, that worked at sewing manufacturing plants, and other fast paced sewing jobs, Thats how they worked out those things.
aosanshou I love that! Saying thank you to objects once we’re through with them is very Xinto (wrote it wrong, didn’t I? 😅)
Hi Evelyn, I like to habitually cover my machines every single time I'm done. We create so much dust in the sewing space and dust is such an enemy of mechanics! I have to agree with you about pattern folding lol! I'm always so upset when I find a vintage pattern and it's all crumpled in the envelope!
I knew I had reached a milestone in my sewing education when my sewing mentor (aka my wife) allowed me to use her sewing scissors. it was like being allowed to handle Excalibur. I pity the fool who would even think of cutting paper with them!
😝😝😝😝
Anna-Marie here. I have been sewing for over 60 years. all the habits are great and all sewers should follow and use them. i absolutely agree with you and your followers.
Yep, I do all of those, and I'll add another one. On the pattern envelope, I will circle the size l used, so that next time I buy/use a pattern from the same company, I know what size l am, as sizing is not standard within the pattern world !
Keep a good magnet handy, I use them to pick up lost pins and needles, especially on carpet.
And yes i have to fold my patterns.
Just be careful with these magnets if you have a computerized machine. It can ruin your expensive computerized sewing machine by erasing memory.
@@kendal4452 true. That would suck to accidentally erase memory.
I like to keep my primary colors of white black and neutral sewing machine bobbins fully wound with tread at all times. As soon as I finish one, I have another one ready to continue sewing!!!❤️🧵❤️🧵
I LOVE this tip! Having a couple of pre wound bobbins with your project color...brilliant!
I definitely have to fold the pattern piece on the original lines. Sometimes it’s like doing a puzzle.
All theese simple advice seem obvious, and yet hearing them again is never a loss of time. Up to now I admit that I didn't read completely the explanations of a pattern for I wanted to finish the work as soon as possible. And as I am a beginner I had to redo it again and again. Into the bargain I have to hide my scissors because my husband is Always trying to steal them to cut no matter what. My favourite habit is that of a sewing notebook, and I am very proud to say that mine is very old because I have Always written many things about sewing. Thank-you for this video Evelyn !!!
One new habit I have gotten myself into is the agreement that I can use any fabric in my stash for any project that it’s suitable for. I have a habit of buying fabric with only a vague idea what I want to use it for like make a dress, skirt or shirt but if I keep waiting for the perfect project to come along for this piece of pretty fabric then guess what? It never happens! So no fabric is immune to project enlistment, there will always be more fabric. Maybe even one you will love better.
I find this is true of most things, especially clothes. I don't wait for the perfect or special occasion anymore because it so rarely comes
I recently removed and donated all of the fabric that was taking up space in my sewing room. It was hard, and since Covid, I wished that I had saved some of it. The fabric just sat there waiting for a project that never happened, so it was time to purge. Now, I want to look for decent natural fabrics to use but won't buy unless I actually have an Idea of what I am going to make.
YES to pattern/tracing labeling & numbering! .... But in ADDITION, add a photograph into that same bag of your finished product for future reference. THX for your videos! We love them!
I am a beginning sewer . I did not iron the seems down . This caused me some definite problems with lining up pieces. So point taken and next project will be ironing as I go
Yes, ironing is important when sewing. Also, just a suggestion as you mentioned you're new to sewing. Do a search for the different ways to do seams and practice them too. Even if you have a Serger (Overlocker), not all seams can be finished/neatened up with one, so to me, it's important to learn how to do a variety of different seams and have that professional look. :)
Okay I will search some different seams to practice. Thank you !
Hi Evelyn!
My favorite sewing habit is always do a mock-up or toile first. Words to live by. You can do all your tweeks and adjustments before cutting into your precious fabric and risk the chance of ruining it.
Lol! I have to fold my patterns up along the same lines too.
The other reason to make a muslin/toile is that sometimes even with the correct adjustments a pattern just doesnt look good on you. I made a muslin of a jacket once that looked so bad I tossed the pattern and the muslin and chalked it up to experience. The fabric I saved from this awful pattern was expensive and would have been a huge disappointment for me.
When sewing children’s pants I put a different coloured tab onto the back seam so it’s very quick to identify the back of the garment when putting it on.
GREAT idea!
I am a newbie. I love to walk. One of the way before I unfold my map is to mark the foldings. This is how I do it... When you open the first fold, mark both sides of the fold a ''A'' and at both ends of the fold. It goes on to ''B'' for the next unfolding and so on. When you want to fold, look for the last alphabet and bring the two last alphabets of one end together and do the same for the other end. Continue till alphabet ''A''. Bingo, done!
Spent the time and money to customize a dressform to your measurements. Such a help!
And actually take new accurate measurements on a regular basis. Don’t use the ones from a year ago, before you gained 10 pounds...and yes, I‘ve eben guilty of doing this myself at times. Sewing clothes in the hopes, you’ll quickly loose that weight again, is even more stupid, than buying stuff, that’s too small!
I‘m keeping up with Mending Monday, btw. This week, I repaired the lining of a bag 😀
Yay!!! I realized I forgot to post here about Monday Mending! Thankyou for tge reminder!! It's definetly worth having a manniquin and padding her up to your measurments!! 😀
In addition to penciling notes on the pattern instructions about sewing techniques, I also like to add an index card with notes, ideas, swatch (scrap) of fabrics used, and a picture of final product. I don’t always do this. but, I ALWAYS regret not doing it.
I also keep a plastic container with a flip top, like a tic tac, mint, or gum container, to place sharps (bent or broken pins, needles...) into. For spent rotary cutting blades, an Altoid’s tin is perfect. Not to mention, it is easy to affix a strong magnet to the back of the tin and stick to shelving supports to keep it out of the way yet handy.
A good habit I would recommend is to always press your seams once you're done sewing them! And I loved the video! I dont know which habit I would say was my favorite, I think making a mock up and then reading the instructions all the way through. 😬😄
When I have a few minutes to spare or just don't feel like sewing, I spend some time filling bobbins in different colours. It is great to have them on hand when your bobbin runs out instead of interrupting your project to thread a bobbin.
This isn’t really a habit but a good thing is to not get distracted by your phone while sewing love your channel 💕💕💕
Looking stunning in green!
Aww thankyou! 😙
So many great tips and habits - please read all the comments because they are excellent. One really important tip please, for all who have cats. Please, please do not leave pin cushions, loose pins/ containers of pins, etc. out when you are not able to "supervise". Cats seem to love not only batting at them but they have been known to pull the pins and needles out of them and I have heard terrible stories of veterinary emergencies, surgeries and death. I forgot one day, was hand sewing in front of the TV, walked away for a couple of minutes and came back to one of my own cats chewing and pulling at the pins in the cushion. Had a minor panic attack, husband and I grabbed the cat, forced his mouth open to make sure he didn't already have a pin lodged in his throat. I imagine the same can very quickly happen if you have dogs. They all love to grab things into their mouths. Leaving pins out is so dangerous for our pets, things can turn terrible so quickly.
Mock ups is mine. I always buy cheap sheets from the op shops for this reason. I am a very large woman. The vintage patterns i like are usually a very small size. Thus i have to upsize the pattern to fit me. Once i have a well fitting muslin, i make my new pattern from that.
The bonus tip of a sewing journal is my favourite. Now to get a notebook. Thanks!
I truly enjoy your videos, they are so informative. One thing I haven’t heard mentioned as a tip/ rule (forgive me if I missed it) always, always, ALWAYS wear good sturdy shoes when sewing. A lost/dropped pin or needle can go right through flimsy shoes and into your foot requiring surgery... as a nurse I see this more often than you think.
Thank you, Ma'am. For teaching us Ma'am.
I like to run some lengths of hand sewing thread through beeswax and iron them and thread them onto needles before I start hand sewing, I am always tempted to skip this and regret it when the thread knots, I keep some most-used colors like black,white and red threaded up like this, it only takes a minute and sitting down to hand sew and realizing you have not done this is so annoying.
A habit I need to do is not throwing threads on the floor but have a little box to hold loose threads. They can be recycled to make another project! A friend is going to show me how to make a scarf with all my colorful threads!
Oh wow!! A scarf from all the excess threads! Now that I need to see!! 😀
My habit is putting all of my equipment in the same place every time I use it. And when finished sewing clean up the space at the end of the day even if you are in the middle of a project. Keeping your work space is critical!!!
I started making swatch cards for the different types of fabrics that suit a pattern. Not all fabrics work with all patterns. It helps when you are learning about fabric.
This is a great idea for beginners!!! I've never heard that one before! Thankyou for sharing it!
Fortysomething BadGirls , I ordered so many sample fabrics as new again to sewing, I’ve not sewn for about 30 years, have made shirts jackets Trousers etc, so I need to learn more about all the different fabrics , and how they hang and feel against skin. Xx
I have started folding the pattern pieces with the company name and pattern number and piece number on top, so that I can find the pieces I am looking for without unfolding the whole thing again and again.
Oh that's a great habit! Because you always need to go back in for one of those pieces!!
My tips are
- before start making a garment, always write down what I want to add to the garment( bias binding on the hem, piping around the neck etc) on a sticky note and attach it onto the instruction paper.
- make a mock-up.
- keep sewing space clean and clutter-free
- if possible, do some research on the pattern you are going to use, see what other people think of this pattern( some patterns are bad-drafted , or running larger /smaller than the sizing instruction printed on the envelope)
- always put pins back to the pin cushion, never leave them on the counter/work space just in case they fall on the floor and you accidentally step onto them 😭😭😭
And I need to make a pin cushion bangle for myself asap. It’s so useful .
Thank you for another excellent video! My favorite of these tips is writing complete info on each piece of the pattern I’ve traced and using a 2 gallon size ziplock bag. That’s large enough to hold the original pattern, the new one and even fabric samples.
That is exactly my method
Yes! It’s so hard sometimes to fold the pattern pieces back up to fit back in the envelope!
I agree!
Thanks so much for the video and great habits. I always want my sewing area cleared from clutter , etc. And always need my scissors handy at my side.
Yes I think this is one of top habits for work flow! Tidy as you go and always have a spot for snip/ scissors ect so they are where you need them!
Evelyn, thanks so much for all your lovely tips and videos! I learn so much from watching you and you are such an inspiration! Please keep them coming! Oh, and I especially enjoy your garment renovation videos. I'm not very good at doing them myself, yet, but I'm learning from you! Have a wonderful day!
My favorite is to label everything. And yes, I agree with you, patterns must be folded and put away properly so I can fit more patterns in my limited space. Not folding them causes unnecessary bulk.
Habits that I should practice is no pin in the mouth ... even if I have 2 lovely pin cushion I always put some pins in the mouth .... I know it's bad ... and a good habit I've taken recently: make me forms with a sample of the fabrics I have in my stash, with the footage, the "care code" (washing, ironing ....), where I bought the fabric and how much it cost. so I can check in my binder what fabrics I have and if have enough to sew my project
Thats a great idea! To keep all that info with you!!
I love your habit of storing your fabric info etc into a folder, I am going to start training myself to do this. Thank You so much for sharing it :)
Reading completely through the pattern instructions first is so very important and labeling the pattern pieces making all notes especially changes that you have made to the pattern piece for next time. I also keep a notebook/diary for sewing with all of my ideas, what I liked, what I didn't like, what changes I made or would make if I make it again.
I enjoyed this, Evelyn, thanks!
My fave habit is "No pins in the mouth" this is super important! I'm still at work on developing this as a habit after reading about someone swallowing a pin! Ugly! Same applies to screws and nails for those of us who also dabble in DIY building or renovation.
Thanks, I have enjoyed the the 5 good sewing habits
One habit I always do is when I get up from my machine I turn it off. It's easy to get sidetracked and forget to come back to turn it off. So when I get up from the machine I turn it off that way my little fur babies running around won't be accidentally sitting on the foot pedal especially if you have something on the machine your not going to end up getting some damage to your fabric or something else.
Definitely!! This is one very good habit!
So here’s what strange... some of the old machines don’t have an on and off! You actually have to unplug to turn it off!!
Really!! I've never seen one like this!
Yep! One of them is the singer slant needle 403. And the only reason I know I because I have it and I spent a LONG time looking for the power button the first time I set it up!!
Snow Girls
I turn off and unplug to avoid anyone tripping over the cord when I am not at the sewing machine.
Never rush a sewing project, take your time & if you get frustrated or confused take a break and come back to it a little later on. Always read the manuals on any new machine that you buy, even if it's a brand etc that you're familiar with. When I have finished sewing for the day, I put scrap fabric under my footer & place the needle in the lowest position. If I am storing or taking my machine somewhere I remove the needle.
Evelyn - Love your "Habits" and "Tips" videos. I have recently returned to garment construction and have fallen in love all over again. Thanks to you I am now taking the time and making a muslin for every new pattern and I'm also keeping a journal that goes w me every time I go to the store. It helps me to keep track of pending projects, and to match fabrics, thread, and notions. There are other tips, but these have been game changers!
And I love a commenter's tip on prewinding bobbins! Saves precious time and frustration. I really don't like running out of bobbin thread in the middle of a seam and having to stop to wind a bobbin.it's
I definitely agree about the folding. I do the same with maps. I realize there are many people who have never seen/used a map, but there it is. I tend to obsess about clipping threads. I usually clip after sewing each seam. (I just noticed a similar comment from "Not Me") I have some cool little scissors handy to clip as I go. :)
Long tails of thread hanging about annoying me to no end too!! 🤣
I know what you're saying about maps, they must be folded exactly as they were when first bought. Some of the topographical maps that I have purchased haven't been folded, so they would get rolled up & put into tubing, never to be folded. Patterns are the same with me, they must be folded properly each time after being traced'/used.
Just now sent a link to this video to a friend of mine who wants to learn to sew ... these are 5 excellent habits to cultivate ... shhh, I need to practice the one about pins in the mouth.
Thankyou so much for sharing! Xx
I Watz, me too lol xx
I stopped after I accidentally jabbed my lip trying to put wrong end of pin in mouth ( not paying close enough attention, as pins in mouth was a habit).
Numbers 4 and 5 are probably my favorites. also, I am trying to into the habit of finishing my seams as I go. I would add that to the previous list's #3 habit , trim, press, and finish seam as you go. It will save you a lot of trouble
Love your tips Evelyn - makes me happy when things you recommend i already do and things I don’t already do, I try to adopt them into my sewing. And, definitely NOT a scrunched 🤓🤓🤓. Thank you 🙏
When I trace patterns (which I always do) as well as pattern number, piece number and markings etc I always add the date, the size I traced and all the alterations I made.
Yes!! I keep all this info with my patterns too!
That is excellent.
How do you trace patterns? I've heard of it, but I don't know much about it.
Julie there are so many different methods! I think it's all about finding one that works for you!
Place a large sheet of thin paper on the table and put your pattern on top of it. Draw around it - that is tracing. You now have a copy of the pattern which keeps the original pattern in good condition.
Good habit : take brakes during your sewing. You need to eat, drink, change position, talk to someone, kiss your husband or hug a cat. There are many things we suppose to do, sewing is not a whole world. We make just a clothes, our families, friends and our health is more important.
Just started to sew and signed up for your free class! Very excited, I hope in the future I will be able to follow a dress pattern! Greetings from Sweden!
Know your measurements is another good habit i check my measurements seasonalu because im always alittle bigger at the end of winter
My bad habit is removing the bobbin cover and forgetting where I put it. My sewing has improved 1000% since watching your videos.
Yep. I have to use the original folds! My 2 fav habits? Fabric scissors are out of bounds! Read the instructions thank you for this video.
Thanks for watching! 😀
my fave is the pins, it's similar to one I wanted to mention, though it's more for hand sewing or when you're doing any hand stitching (I prefer handsewing so this is a habit I learned early on (but I apply this to pins too). Get into the habit of putting your needles, pins, etc in a cushion, through a scrap piece of fabric, etc where you won't lose them! No one likes the mini heart attack you experience when you can't find a tiny sharp object lurking anywhere where you might step on it later or an animal or child might come by step on it or worse. I'm still a beginner, but I learned this early on for both me and my precious pup. If it's a handsewing needle, also consider getting into a habit of leaving a tiny bit of thread on the end until you're absolutely done with the needle. It's doesn't have to be anything crazy, but just enough that if you do drop it, it's easier to spot it than trying to find it on the floor by eye or pick it up by magnet (which I, unfortunately, don't have and 9/10 have to find by eye and retracing steps, so I try to stop unthreading my needle completely until I'm 100% done with my project or the needle for the day). This doesn't mean keep threading and unthreading, but rather keep whatever you used last threaded until you're completely done and/or it's completely put away safely.
Last is if you're forgetful keep a small mental checklist of what you have out, maybe I just have bad luck with needles, but my sister accidentally left a sewing needle in my bed, I slept on it and got poked in the morning (she swears it isn't hers, but I don't own the type of needle she was using. I got a new needle out of it though!).
While working in a costume shop during college I learned to always press your pattern pieces before cutting, especially when sewing intricate vintage garments. To return them to their packaging, press into shape with the pattern number and piece number facing outside. Line them up in order and return them to the packaging nested within the packaging. This makes revisiting a favorite pattern a joy.
I always read my pattern instructions through first but not just to avoid mistakes. Sometimes I find a little efficiency here or there, steps that are divided to make written instructions easier to understand but once you get an over all view I might be able to batch some actions to save me time.
One habit that I think is very very important is to use your Iron. I see so many sewing tutorials be it garment construction or quilting they dont use an Iron. I iron my fabric after pre-shrinking it before laying out the pattern. It is so much easier to match plaids , patterns and to get a more accurate cut when the fabric is smooth. I also iron the pattern before laying it out. And I iron after every line of stitching twice once to set the stitches and then to press open the seams or to press them into the direction I need them. Just found your channel last night and even though I am an advanced seamstress I totally enjoy your videos! Thanks for sharing your talent with us.
Thanks so much for watching! I agree, many skip this crucial step but it is key to getting professional looking garments!
I agree 100% with the ironing. Just recently one of my housemates asked me why I iron so much whilst sewing, (as she said she can't see how ironing would make a difference). We decided to make the same thing (very easy project), I did mine with ironing, she did her's without. When she compared them, she got it. :)
The reading through the pattern in full is a good one :)
I like your edition more. I can tell it's more thought through and didactic whereas this one is random. Good, but random. Love what you're doing with your channel and thank you from the bottom of my heart, we need more considerate people like you xx
I Especially like the bonus habit! I read that comment on your other video and took notice as well. (many brilliant tips and habits for a newbie like myself - so lovely to read them all!) Because of that comment I started a sewing journal as I was making my very first garment at the time (only a month ago!) I made loads of mistakes on my first project but somehow this didn't bother me at all as I can feel the mistakes are making me improve.
I haven't touched a sewing machine since middle school (horrible teacher, esp for me). Though I don't see myself getting into dressmaking I am watching your guides so I can avoid certain mistakes entirely. I appreciate your content.
First, I just found you and I already love you! This is a habit I had to correct because I have cats now. They love to hang out in my room although I do try to keep them away from my fabrics. This habit is to pick up all those straggling threads that litter your work. One late night we heard this god awful scream from my kitty who got caught up in a tangle of threads that wrapped around her legs....she wasn’t happy at all. Since then, no more incidents as I clean before I leave my projects...always!
I'm in Love with your channel. Thx for all the tips! Especially the habits. They're my new mantra
I'm a beginner and your videos make tmy fears and frustration easier to handle
I don't have the ability to fold everything back the same way it arrived in the envelope. So I iron or press the tissue before placing on fabric, then I try to re-fold so I can get everything in the envelope, which never works ( but I do try ) then envelope and all neatly pressed pattern pieces are placed in a page protector .
I was never taught to make a mock up of the garment I was going to make. My mother would help me fit the pattern pieces to me before we pinned and cut out the pattern. Something I forgot years ago, and ended up with a blouse that turned out too large. Now I know what to do with those new sheets we bought that don't fit our bed!
Re the toile/muslin, I know a lot of people just don't want to do 'twice the work' so they avoid it, but I think beginners & even quite a few non-beginners don't understand *why* a toile is essential to making a well-fitted garment from a pattern you've never used before (or even from one you've not used recently). I saw a novice make this common mistake; she cut out all the pattern pieces with (e.g.) size 10 printed on them, not knowing that pattern size & dress size at the shops are not necessarily the same. She was also unaware that the basic pattern should be altered to fit her own measurements, so didn't adjust the pieces or make a toile to ensure they fit her, then consequently, she cut her garment using the basic pattern. I'm sure this happens to many more beginners than we imagine & that they give up sewing, disappointed & positively clueless about what went wrong. It could really be worth doing a short vid for newbies on what to do *before* you cut your expensive fabric, Evelyn. You know, just to explain the process & that the pattern envelope doesn't contain a complete paper garment, that the pattern still needs to be fitted your measurements, then we do the toile/muslin in something cheap (like muslin lol) to make sure it all fits & so that we don't waste our $89AUD per metre Silk Georgette by just cutting round the basic pattern pieces - but I'm sure you would explain it much better :)
Excellent advice. Am still guilty of putting the occasional pin in my mouth, but am trying hard to rid myself of that. I now usually put a magnetic pin holder next to me while I'm sewing. The log's a great idea; have just discovered a pretty, blank book while decluttering, and have designated it as my sewing journal. I'll be writing in as many tips as possible.
You look so pretty today. Always do however... Thank you for help with and encouragement in sewing. I am just getting back to sewing. Fashion is exciting and when we can refashion an item, that is very exciting. Doing a mock up first is something that impressed me today.
Marian it is an eady way to get your fit and end garment soooo much better!! 😀
One habit I'm trying to establish is to prep for the next day. Clean up the area, put things by the door to carry to another room if necessary, make notes for yourself as reminders of what you need next. I also always put my machine cover back on, because I don't earn an income with my machine so don't necessarily sew every day. I clean and oil at the beginning of every session... my machine loves one little drop of oil on the hook every day. It purrs when I do that.
I would buy fabric then get too busy to sew. After a while I would forget which pattern I was going to use. I now use a 2.5 gallon zip lock bag to put my pattern, notions and fabric along with any notes I may need. It works great
All fantastic tips..Read the pattern all the way through first...which i feel overwhelmed if i do..my brain does get over loaded and i will put it away if i do. Have always done this with all instructions. So i do one instruction at a time.
I know you're right, but geeze Louise!! I don't know if I could ever not put the pins in my mouth 😬. My grandmother did, i learned from her, and it's just second nature!
This is great! Thank you.
I use kitchen shelf liner underneath my pedal to keep it from sliding.
I also trace my pattern pieces onto non-woven fabric (the kind used on the bottom of sofas). It keeps the pattern intact, allows me to transfer all notes, and gives me one run through of cutting out the pieces and pinning it together to check for needed alterations.
What is the name if this type fabrc? And where do you purchase it please?
I always refold my pattern peces on the original lines, and set them between the folded instrucitons. They fit back into the envelope so much better if you take the time to do this.
I bought sheffield steel scissors they are exquisite and they live in the box even though my children are grown .. they always knew my fabric scissors were only for fabric lol
1st rule of the sewing room.... fabric scissors are ONLY for fabric! 🤣🤣 It's still a running joke with my dad who always wanted to use mine!
So helpful for someone like me who is just starting off.
Im glad you found it useful! Read the comments on all the other tips!!
My favourite tip is to read the pattern through first. I very rarely do and then make mistakes and wish I had. I am going to work at doing this one. I just get to impatient to start. Slow and steady wins the race 😂🐌🐌🐌
You absolutely need to!! My brain won't let me start unless I know the whole picture!
I once had a set of instructions that ended with “But first”, I am just starting to use this tip. I have always been one to rush into just making it but as I start sewing again after many years I am trying to get into good habits.
Thanks for the awesome tips! Also watching this video I couldn't help but think I was looking at a real life princess Snow White! I wish I could look like a modern version of a Disney princess.