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Learning how to sew can bring some major joy to your life. However, the learning part can feel overwhelming…
My Best Advice: Focus on learning one new sewing skill at a time!
There are many easy and basic sewing projects that are great for beginners. We are going to discuss some of them in this post. We want to help you choose sewing projects that aren’t too hard but push you to learn more. Once you have mastered one sewing skill, move on to learning the next.
This is the learning strategy I use in my FREE Learn to Sew Class!
Contents
Skill #1: Sewing a Straight Stitch
The very first sewing skill you should master is the straight stitch. This is the simplest and most common stitch, and it is used in most sewing projects.
The straight stitch is great for woven fabric, like cotton. However, something to keep in mind is that it is not great for knits because it doesn’t stretch well.
One of the best sewing projects to start with as a beginner is a simple pillowcase because you will only be using a straight stitch. Pillowcases are so easy that you really don’t need a pattern, although you can find one. Simply take an old pillowcase and cut two pieces of fabric about a half inch bigger than the original pillowcase. You need to cut your pillowcase pieces slightly bigger to give you room for a seam allowance.
Skill #2: Threading String or Elastic through a Casing
This next skill is important because elastic is very common when making garments. Some simple sewing projects you can try that will help you learn how to sew elastic and make a casing are drawstring bags, scrunchies, and pajama pants.
Threading a string or elastic through a casing is fairly easy. I like to use a safety pin. Attach one end of your string or elastic to a safety pin. Then, use the safety pin to guide your elastic through your casing. It gives you something to grab and feel.
There are some more detailed instructions on how to thread elastic through a casing in this post: How to Sew an Elastic Waistband.
Skill #3: Sewing a Zigzag Stitch
The zigzag stitch is another common stitch you need to learn, especially when sewing knit fabric. This stitch does well with stretchy fabric and items that get a lot of wear. It does not break as easily as a straight stitch.
One easy sewing project to start using a zigzag stitch is a t-shirt. You can get a FREE t-shirt pattern for kids from Peek-a-Boo Pattern shop — you just have to sign up for their emails…
Skill #4: Gathering Fabric
You also need to learn how to gather fabric. Gathers are often used when forming the skirt of a dress or even a top. To gather on your sewing machine, set your machine to the longest straight stitch possible. You should backstitch when you first start the gather to hold the thread in place but leave the end of your threads long when you cut at the end. Once sewn, hold the free end while pushing your fabric closer to the other end. This should create nice gathers that you can manually space out to fit your garment.
One easy sewing project to practice gathers could be an apron. Many apron patterns require you to gather the skirt portion before sewing it onto the bodice. A basic skirt pattern could also help you learn to sew gathers.
Skill # 5: Sewing a Zipper
The last skill we will discuss is sewing a zipper. Zippers are common in jackets and pants. They are not as difficult as they look.
Start by reading my FREE Beginner’s Guide to Zippers!
One of the easiest sewing projects to learn how to sew a zipper is a simple zip pouch. You can find lots of free patterns and tutorials for this. However, I recommend the Zoey Zip Pouch from Rebecca Page Patterns because there are super detailed video instructions that are great for beginners.
Once you’ve learned these basic sewing skills and you feel comfortable using a sewing machine, it’s time to learn how to use sewing patterns. You’ll still want to choose sewing projects that are not too complicated, just remember to focus on learning one new sewing skill at a time.
Learning to sew is so much fun!
Some More Articles You Should Read:
- 14 Things I Wish I Knew When Learning to Sew
- Tools and Supplies to Include in a Beginner Sewing Kit
- How to Choose the Right Thread for Your Sewing Project
- How to Choose Fabric for a Sewing Project
When you’re learning how to sew, a lot of things can go wrong. You will encounter problems with your sewing machine — It’s inevitable. That’s why I created a Sewing Machine Troubleshooting Book. I want to help you fix some of the most common sewing machine problems that can occur. It’s a great resource book to keep by your sewing machine. You can get the book on Amazon.
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