Everything you need to get started sewing

So you’ve decided that you want to take up sewing, but you’re not sure where to start. It can be a bit overwhelming at first, but this article will help you to get together everything you need and get you pointed in the right direction of creating some simple items you will love!

A lot of people like to start sewing on a small budget. If you are aiming for that, you will find that it can be very affordable if you follow the recommendations below. Or just pick and choose from my tips as needed!

Sewing Machine

When you first get started, the biggest thing you’re going to need is a sewing machine. I would recommend starting with something that is affordable. That way you can see if you really want to get more serious about sewing. Honestly, there isn’t that big of a difference for most uses anyway! You can buy this basic Brother machine from Amazon (Walmart also sells it). Or you can probably find one on facebook marketplace for $20-$50. I would recommend something with a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch at least, and most all modern machines will have those. I need a machine with an automatic buttonholer, but you might not plan to do many buttons. Try to get a machine that comes with a few different feet (you will need at least a zigzag foot) and corresponding bobbins.

I personally use the Brothercs6000i, which I love, but Brother has discontinued it. The next model in the series is the Brothercs7000x, which also has great reviews and is quite affordable.

Other Supplies

Then you will need some basic supplies:

• Iron and ironing board if you don’t have them (ironing boards can be a bit pricey, but I often see them in thrift stores)
• Needles for your machine (80/12 is a good all purpose size, or you can get an assorted pack)
• Scissors
• Pins
• Measuring tape
• Seam ripper
• Something to mark with. I like chalk like this one
• Corresponding bobbins without thread (if your machine didn’t come with them). Read the labels to make sure that they will work for your machine. No link for this one as you will need a specific kind depending on your machine.
• Thread. I don’t recommend super cheap thread, as it can mess with bobbin tension and breaks easily. A lot of new sewists get frustrated by this. Gutermann polyester thread is a great option. To start with colors, you will want a dark color, probably black, and an off-white color. You will be amazed how well off-white thread blends with many different light colored fabrics!

I have included links, but Walmart or your local fabric store will also have all these items, sometimes for less than online, especially when you factor in shipping.

Fabric

And of course, we need fabric to sew. To start out, you can find fabric for very cheap from thrift stores, especially on bag sale days. Look in the fabric section, but even better is bedding, tablecloths, or curtains. I prefer natural fibers because of quality, comfort, and ease to work with. Finding 100% cotton bed sheets at the thrift store is pretty easy, so I like to look in the bedding section first. You can also check out the discount section of your local fabric store. You might even have friends or family that have way too much fabric and will offer to give you some from their stash if they know you are getting into sewing!

If you’d like to buy new online, my two favorite stores are GK Fashion Fabrics and Pure Linen Envy. Both are based in Canada but ship to the States as well.

Patterns

I’m a big fan of pdf patterns. I buy most of mine on Etsy. You can also buy them directly from pattern developer’s websites. You can even find many simple, free ones online. I find that pdf patterns tend to have more modern, trendy designs than physical patterns in a fabric store. Within a few minutes, you can choose, purchase, and print your pattern. You do need to tape all the pieces together and then cut them out, which some people don’t like. It might seem like a lot of work at first, but I can tell you that it is a bit of a skill and you will get a lot more efficient with some experience! Another huge plus for me is that I can print multiple sizes. I can also reprint if something gets damaged over time.

Otherwise you can buy physical patterns in a fabric store, order them online, or find them at thrift stores. Just be wary of secondhand, as they might already be cut in the wrong size or be damaged.

And sometimes, you really don’t need a pattern. For some projects you can just use measurements, or you can “clone” your clothes, or just completely guess (which is kind of a bad idea, but we all do it!).

How do I actually start sewing?

When you are first getting started with sewing, you will want to take some time to just familiarize yourself with your machine and how it works. Look through your manual, it’s awesome! If you bought a secondhand machine without a manual, look it up on google and you will be able to view it for free. Newer models will also have youtube tutorials if you prefer that. Practice winding the bobbin and threading your machine. Then sewing a straight stitch, back stitch, zigzag stitch, and the different stitch lengths and widths on a small scrap of fabric. Finally, find a simple project and get started. There’s nothing like an exciting challenge to get you learning lots of new skills!

Beginner Sewing Projects

I’ve compiled a short list of simple projects you could try out. Some have patterns you can buy, some have free patterns, and some you don’t really need a pattern for. If you don’t like any of these, think of something you would like to make and do a google, pinterest, or youtube search. You’re bound to find something!

Throw Pillow Covers (Youtube, no pattern needed)

Tunic Style Girls Dress (free pdf pattern)

Wrap Style Girls Dress (paid etsy pdf pattern)

Women’s Apron (free pdf pattern)

Baby Bonnet (paid etsy pdf pattern)

Nursing Cover (Youtube, no pattern needed)

In Closing

I hope this article has encouraged you if you’ve been considering getting into sewing, and made the whole thing seem a lot less daunting.

Have any questions? Let me know in the comments below and I’d be happy to answer!