(Newswire.net — May 23, 2020) —
With the COVID-19 pandemic keeping everyone indoors, there’s never been a better time to pick up a new hobby. Sewing is a great choice, and it can help your community stay safe. Almost every state has a shortage of masks and learning how to sew can help you fill the gap.
Sewing has become a bit of a lost art, though. You might not be sure where to even begin. To get you started, here’s our Beginner’s Guide to Sewing.
Hand Sewing
If you’re just starting out, you might be tempted to pick up a sewing machine right away. However, there are a few hand sewing techniques you should practice first. These will ensure that you can complete your machine projects with quality finishes.
Thredding a Needle
The first step to hand sewing is threading a needle. There are a few tricks to this. You can start by laying your thread over a clean toothbrush and pushing a needle through.
Once your needle is threaded, you’ll need to make a knot in one end. First, pull the thread through so that you have two ends. One should be shorter than the other.
Wrap a small portion of the long end around your pointer finger a couple of times. Next, rub the wrapped thread between your finger and thumb. When you slide it off and pull it tight, you should have a secure knot.
Making Even Stitches
Another essential to sewing is making even stitches that create durability in your projects. Once you get enough practice, this will come naturally. However, use a simple trick to help you when you’re starting out.
Use a ruler to make marks on your thumb the same distance apart as you want your stitches. Then, simply move your thumb along the hem of your project and sew with the marks.
Making Your First and Last Stitch
Your first and last stitch will ensure your project stays together. For your first stitch, all you’ll need to do is push the needle through your fabric and pull. The knot you secured when threading will do the rest of the work for you.
Once you make your last stitch, make another in the exact same place. Then, create a loop in one hand and hold it to the spot of your last stitch. Pull through to make a knot.
Invisable Stitch
An invisible stitch, or slip stitch, is one of the handiest tools a seamstress can have in their toolbelt. It’s great for creating a seamless finish on machine projects. Made to Sew recommends you follow these steps to learn the stitch:
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Start with your thread coming from the folded edge closest to you
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Make your first stitch directly where the original stitch was made on the opposite side
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Stitch through the folded edge of the seam furthest from you (do not stitch through the sides of the fabric, but the folded seam itself)
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Complete your stitches and pull through
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Tie off your final stitch
Machine Sewing
Once you have a grasp of basic hand sewing, you can try your luck at a machine. Each one is going to be different, so make sure to read the manual before starting.
Threading a Sewing Machine
The best way to learn how to thread your sewing machine is to follow the manual. However, most machines include the following steps Instructables outlines:
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Place thread on stopper
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Wind through the control hook
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Thread through the tension knob
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Pull behind the needle lever
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Slide through the eye of the needle
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Follow machine instructions to thread bobbin
Basic Operation of a Sewing Machine
Once you’ve threaded your needle, you can begin to operate your sewing machine. First, raise your needle and slide your fabric under it. Then, lower the foot to secure your fabric. Lower your needle by hand using the knob noted in your manual. Make one complete stitch.
The foot pedal will control your speed. Keep your hands on either side of your fabric to maintain consistency. Stitch until you’ve completed the desired length. Then, do a set of reverse stitches to secure your project. Lastly, raise the needle and foot. Pull your project to your thread cutter to release it from the machine.