Hi Sewing friends !

So today, I want to talk to you about how to start sewing. Many times, we find ourselves saying, 'Oh, I want to start a new hobby or craft, like sewing.' But where do we begin? I'll break it down into three actionable steps to help you start sewing and learning how to sew yourself. If you're new here, hi! I'm Annie, and I'm on a mission to teach 1 million people how to sew through online tutorials, sewing courses, and fun reels on Instagram, TikTok, and all the socials. Let’s dive in!

1 Stick to your skill level

The first step to learning how to sew is to set realistic expectations with your skill level. It's so common, especially for creatives, to have grand ambitions. For example, I once had a beginner student who wanted to sew her wedding dress on day one! While enthusiasm is great, it’s important to start small to avoid getting disheartened. Begin with beginner-friendly sewing projects like a pillowcase or a pencil case. These simple projects will teach you the basics while giving you a sense of achievement. Remember, setting achievable goals will keep you motivated and help you progress steadily in your sewing journey.

Beginner sewing course by Ford Wardrobe

If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to start, don’t worry! I’ve created an in-depth resource specifically for beginners called "The Beginners Guide to Sewing." This comprehensive course covers everything you need to know to get started, from understanding your sewing machine to mastering basic stitches and techniques. The course is designed with step-by-step video tutorials, downloadable patterns, and helpful tips to ensure you feel confident and supported throughout your learning process. By the end of the course, you'll have the skills to tackle your own sewing projects with ease. Check out the link to the course for more details and to sign up today!

2 Get the right sewing equipment

The next step is gathering the right equipment. While you can start sewing by hand, a sewing machine will make the process much easier and quicker. I recommend starting with a beginner-friendly sewing machine like the Brother or Singer Heavy Duty models. These machines are reliable, easy to use, and perfect for beginners. Additionally, consider borrowing a sewing machine from family or friends, purchasing one second-hand, or even renting one from your local library. Along with the machine, you’ll need basic tools like needles, thread, scissors, and measuring tape. Remember, you don't need all the fancy gadgets right away; keep it simple and focus on the essentials.

3 Choosing the foundational sewing materials and threads

Finally, let’s talk about materials. The basics you'll need are fabric and thread. For your first projects, choose a basic cotton fabric like calico. It's user-friendly, doesn't slip, and is very affordable. As for thread, I highly recommend Gutermann thread because of its durability and wide range of colors. Good quality thread like Gutermann's ensures your projects will last longer and saves you the frustration of dealing with thread that snaps easily. Over time, you can expand your collection to include other materials and tools, but starting with these basics will set you up for success.

Starting your sewing journey can be incredibly rewarding and fun if you take it step by step. By setting realistic expectations, gathering the right equipment, and choosing the right materials, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful sewing projects. Remember, the key is to start small, stay patient, and enjoy the learning process. I hope this guide has been helpful, and I can't wait to see what you create! If you found this helpful, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more sewing tips and tutorials. Happy sewing! Talk soon, Annie xx