beginner sewing tips


Bundled Up: How to Sew Toggle Closures

Toggles closures are a popular button closure choice for a variety of garments. They are perfect for items like coats, capes, sweaters, and other kinds of sewing projects (especially outerwear!). Since they consist of two parts, it’s very important to line them up properly for the best look. Follow along to find out all about ... Read More

15 Types of Sleeves Beginner Sewists Need to Know

Dust off your sewing encyclopedias because today, class is in session! If you’re new to sewing, knowing basic terminology for dresses, skirts, and sleeves will make searching for patterns so much easier. In this beginner-friendly article, we’ll be examining different types of sleeves that you’re most likely to encounter when sewing. While you probably know ... Read More

A Beginner’s Guide to Stabilizing Seams

Stabilizing seams is a useful but often overlooked sewing skill. This can be necessary when the fabric is lightweight, bias cut, or on specific areas of a garment that may be more vulnerable to stretching. A seam stabilizer doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, and is probably already in your sewing room! Continue reading ... Read More

A Cut Above: 14 Types of Precuts

Welcome to A Cut Above: 14 Types of Precuts. Precut fabric is fabric cut to specific dimensions for you, so you can spend less time cutting and more time sewing! Precut fabric is often sold in coordinating colors and patterns, taking the pressure off of you to choose your own colors and patterns via fabrics ... Read More

7 of the Best Places to Shop for Fabric Online

The closure of Joann’s still has the sewing and quilting world reeling, especially for those in rural areas where access to brick-and-mortar fabric stores is limited. After the news about Joann’s broke, we had readers reach out requesting an article about where to shop for fabric online, and we’re happy to oblige. While we outlined ... Read More

Lean On Me: The Ultimate Guide to Adding Elbow Patches

Elbow patches aren’t just for tweed jackets and stuffy professors – they’re a brilliant way to give your clothes a stylish upgrade and extend the life of your favorite garments. Whether you’re repairing a worn-out sweater or adding a pop of color to an old jacket, elbow patches are simple to add and totally customizable. ... Read More

The Ultimate Serger Guide

Whether you’re sewing your own wardrobe, whipping up handmade gifts, or simply looking to neaten your seams, a serger (also known as an overlocker) can seriously advance your sewing game. With its speedy stitching and professional finish, it’s no wonder this machine is a firm favorite among garment makers. ... Read More

9 Pattern Markings Sewing Beginners Need to Know

For new sewists, reading a sewing pattern can easily be overwhelming, especially once you open your pattern and see dashed lines, triangles, dots, and more. That’s why our editors are here to save the day! We’ve gathered the most common pattern markings that beginner sewists are most likely to encounter, all into one handy list. ... Read More

4 Easy and Essential Tips for Sewing Lace

Who doesn’t love beautiful lace fabric?! This material has the power to remind us of special occasions and nostalgic memories like weddings and proms. While it’s one of the most exquisite types of fabric, lace can be hard to sew due to its delicate nature. In this article, we will describe the uses and types ... Read More