Sewing can be a remarkably rewarding pastime. You may even be lucky enough to make a career out of your creativity. That said, any worthwhile creative endeavour takes time, patience and practice - even the most experienced seamstresses and tailors strive for constant improvement. If you want to develop your sewing skills and put your expertise to the test, consider the following improvement tips. From handy gadgets to accessible challenges, you might just surprise yourself.
Although there are countless online tutorials available, joining a class and learning a skill with the help of an experienced teacher can be far more beneficial in terms of improvement. Sewing classes and clubs are generally affordable and put you in contact with other sewing enthusiasts with varying skill levels. Sewing classes, from beginner to advanced, usually take place at local sewing academies, haberdasheries and open study colleges, so take the plunge and sign up today.
“Measure twice, cut once” is an expression often used by woodworkers and carpenters; however, it also applies to sewing. Failure to check your measurements before snipping away confidently with your fabric scissors only results in wasted material and frustration. While some mishaps are salvageable, more often than not, when a cut is made, there’s no going back. Always double-check your measurements to save time and reduce waste.
It’s astonishing how a little attention to detail can transform a garment from amateurish to professional. When you start creating clothing from scratch, it’s reasonable to expect a few wonky seams, mismatched patterns and unfinished hems, particularly if your basic sewing skills are not yet honed. However, in order to create exceptional garments worthy of selling, attention to detail is crucial. Take your time and avoid rushing your projects; hurrying will only result in slapdash work and irreparable mistakes.
Developing a skill often requires challenging yourself. If you remain within your comfort zone, you may be able to perfect a small handful of beginner projects, but you will unlikely reach your full potential. Putting your skills to the test and attempting ambitious projects may feel overwhelming, but it is an excellent way to learn. Furthermore, you could just surprise yourself - you may find projects and techniques you’d previously considered way beyond your proficiency are not as daunting as you thought.
Every seasoned crafter needs a box of handy tools and accessories. While winging your projects with the bare necessities of sewing may work for you currently, trickier endeavours may call for specific tools. For example, you won’t be able to add eyelets to garments without a pair of snap and eyelet pliers. Other accessories every sewing enthusiast needs include;
Sewing machines may seem intimidating to beginners, but once you know how to use one, you’ll never look back. Not only do sewing machines save you a great deal of time, but they help you create strong, long-lasting garments and homeware items. While a second-hand sewing machine may be perfect for learners, once you’ve found your feet, you can start thinking about investing in a high-quality machine that will last for years. Servicing your machine around once per year is advisable to keep it working at peak performance.
You may not realise it, but striving for a zero-waste sewing journey could help you develop your skills. Sewing, tailoring and dressmaking all involve a great deal of innovation and creativity, particularly if you design your own garments. Coming up with ways in which you can upcycle existing garments and use fabric not only benefits the environment by cutting down on textile waste but it forces you to use your imagination and attempt new techniques.