Getting started with sewing, instructions for use

À DAY

Knowing how to machine sew opens up endless possibilities. Whether it's to repair his beloved jacket, to hem pants or to make a T-shirt to his size and thus present himself in his best light, having sewing knowledge helps every day. /p>

However, unlike other manual skills, getting equipped is inexpensive.

So what do you need to get into sewing in 2023? ?

1 A sewing machine

If you are lucky enough to have a grandmother who knows how to sew, you can borrow her machine. The devices and their use have changed little in two generations. The settings are the same, so grandma can teach you the basics quickly.

If you're not so lucky, don't worry. There are many machines for beginners on the market. Our preference, at Les Affûtés, goes to the Brother XM2701, which we use for all our workshops. It comes with practical explanations and its lifespan is foolproof. New, it can retail for around $230.

2 Sewing accessories

In addition to the machine , you will need a few handy accessories that will make your sewing sessions enjoyable without spending a lot: a pair of sewing scissors (around $30), a thread cutter (just over $5) , a measuring ruler ($15) and a magnetic needle dish ($15).

3 Thread and fabric

Montreal is a city with a long history of couture. There are many well-equipped shops with people who give excellent advice. Sewing heaven in Montreal is on rue Saint-Hubert. You will find both machine specialists, fabric stores and yarn stores that sell sewing equipment at very attractive prices. Used material stores, such as Renaissance centers, also have many yards of fabrics of all kinds in stock. Sheets, curtains, blankets… anything you can get your hands on can be cut, trimmed and repurposed!

The fanny pack is one of the first projects to do when practicing sewing.

First project

Once seated in front of your sewing machine, you feel the fear of the blank page. Where to start?

After having given hundreds of sewing workshops at Les Affûtés, I know what project to recommend for you to start in this hobby without getting too discouraged. Start with this, in order: a small clutch, a headband, a fanny pack, then a t-shirt. You can easily find free patterns and tutorials for these items on YouTube.

Crafting groups are a great resource for finding help when you need it.

Allow time

Ah! The question of time. It is certain that your first creations will take you hours to create. Sew, unsew, sew again, repeat. See mistakes as learning that will allow you to progress quickly. In a short time, you will be able to complete the majority of your creations in 2 to 4 hours.

In sewing, complicated techniques are easier to learn than they look.

If we need help 

Last, but not least. Stuck and need help? If your seamstress grandmother is not stingy with advice, take advantage of it! If you can't rely on this option, you're in luck: clothing groups on social networks are very supportive. In Montreal, there are many sewing classes for beginners and for progressing, such as the Ethics Factory, at the Fabrik space or at Les Affûtés. Ask about discussion forums in your area or even start your own tailoring support group. Happy sewing!