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Sew Slow: 5 Reasons Why You Should Learn To Make Your Own Clothes

15/7/2021

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Have you found yourself wondering if creating your own clothing is worthwhile? Sure, it takes up time, and yes, it is a skill that requires practice, but I am here to tell you that it is 100% worth your time and effort! Besides the fact that you can make clothing to your exact specifications and tailor anything to suit your style and needs, there are tonnes of reasons why you should learn to make your own clothing. 

In this post, I’ve put together 5 of the most prominent reasons as to why I believe making your own garments is the way forward, no matter what your experience level is.


Sustainability:

The term ‘fast fashion’ gets thrown around quite a lot in the sewing community. The term refers to the replication of popular fashion trends and mass producing them at a low cost. These garments are then distributed at low prices to huge conglomerates that turn a high-profit. Cheap clothing sounds fine, at first, until you take a closer look at the environmental impacts. 

Did you know:
  • 350,000 tonnes of unwanted, but still wearable, clothing ends up being burned or buried in our landfills per year in the UK?
  • A lot of clothing that is burned or buried in landfills hasn’t even been worn? It is simply the most cost-effective way to dispose of unsold stock.
  • Fast fashion is a massive contributor to water pollution and climate change!

The only way to challenge the fast fashion industry is to become more mindful about our wardrobes and think carefully about the type of fabrics we’re using. Repurposing spare fabric and fabric scraps is one way to do your part in fighting the environmental impact of fast fashion, another is to start producing your own clothing.


Perfectly fitting clothes, every time.

I see social media posts about the variation in UK sizing all the time! You’ve probably seen them too - how a pair of size 12 jeans from one brand happens to be about an inch smaller than the same sized jeans bought from a different clothing brand. How crazy is that? Not only does that feed into the landfill disaster of unworn clothing being thrown away, but it also causes havoc with our self esteem. 

These tremendous inconsistencies and the emotional impact that comes with them, can be completely avoided when you choose to make your own clothing. Learning how to measure yourself for clothing is easy, and once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll always have perfectly fitting clothes to suit your style and needs. 


Boost your confidence, self esteem & your overall mental wellbeing. 

Mastering a new skill is one of the most widely suggested ways to boost your self esteem. Learning how to create something new, or or improving a skill you previously struggled with gives you an overwhelming feeling of achievement and satisfaction. This in turn boosts your confidence and self esteem, as well as giving your whole mental state. 2020 was one heck of a year for many, however my trusty sewing machine, along with the Stitch Sewcial Facebook group, and Cornwall Scrubs kept me sane. Quilting and garment making is an act of self care for many, and I have personally spoken out about my mental health and the role that sewing has had in my own mental health progression.

Save yourself some money.

We spoke about how fast fashion mass produces popular fashion trends at a low price earlier, and I think many people fall into the trap that because the garments are cheap, they’re saving money. In actual fact, these clothes are often made to be disposed of; they’re made cheaply and aren’t built to last for more than a season or two. Many items break or become unwearable so quickly that the low costing items soon add up that you’ve spent more money on fashion items than you’d originally planned to over the course of a year.

Sewing your own garments can save you money in the long run because you will be making your clothing with longevity in mind. By using good quality fabric and thread, you can easily make simple garments, even if you’re a total beginner. All it takes is a bit of practice and patience. If you want to brush up on your sewing skills, our Beginners Online Course is great for going back to the basics, or learning everything you need to get started. We also offer an Intermediate Online Course which serves as the perfect introduction to garment making.


You are your own designer and creator.
​

By sewing your own clothing, you are effectively running your own factory. Sourcing your fabric well can bring employment and income to your local areas if you purchase your fabrics and supplies from small local businesses. By working on your own garments, you’re cutting the chemical usage that pollutes our planet with toxins, and, absolutely brilliantly, you’re cutting out the use of child labour. 
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Scrap box overflowing? 25 Practical Things To Make With Fabric Scraps.

15/7/2021

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As you may already know, here at Start To Stitch, we’re into sustainability and protecting our beautiful Cornish countryside; as well as trying to globally fight for a more eco-conscious clothing and textiles industry.

My personal mantra is:
thou shalt not buy anything that can be made thyself.


I work on the principle that since I have a big stash of fabrics, there are a lot of things that I can make for myself, instead of having to buy them. When I get to the end of my stash, I try to buy more fabrics mindfully, thinking about where they’re coming from and how they’re made.

I am in no way preaching about avoiding shops - if you want to head to the shops and buy yourself some new wardrobe staples, go for it. However, I have to say there is something incredibly satisfying about creating your own clothing.

​That’s why I teach my
beginner and intermediate online sewing course; I want to give people the skills and knowledge necessary to help them create garments and items that they can be proud of, as well as helping to slow the speed of the fast fashion industry, while also helping you feel better about the beautiful body that you have been given!! 


Sew your own wardrobe.

So many items in my wardrobe have been lovingly sewn by me. Very recently myself, and members of our Stitch Sewcial Facebook group joined in with the wonderfully organised #TheSewingWeekender2021 event, hosted by The Fold Line. The event entailed a blissful weekend of sewing and chatting with lovely, lovely people, however, as a result, my studio is now full of scraps of fabric that are just crying out to be turned into something practical and beautiful!


Create something brand new out of your leftover fabric.

If, like me, you find that your scrap fabric box is often overflowing, this is definitely the blog post for you. Often we’re left with pieces of fabric that are too small to create new garments for ourselves out of, but that doesn’t mean they’re totally useless. With a little imagination and some clever stitching, it’s possible to turn your scraps into something beautiful and practical that can be used in and around your home.


Practical items to make from scrap fabric:

Below is a collection of sewing projects that can be created using scraps of fabric. In honour of remaining sustainable, we’ve kept the list as practical as possible - there’s no point creating something with leftover fabric that you’ll never actually use. Our categories include health and beauty items, such as facemasks and scrunchies, items for around the home, children’s items, and sewing related goodies. Of course, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of possibilities when it comes to repurposing fabric scraps, so these are only a few ideas to help get you started. 


Health & Beauty 
Reusable makeup remover wipes
Twist headbands
Reusable panty liners
Hand sanitiser keyring holder
Makeup bag / travel makeup bag
Glasses case
Scrunchies
Sleep masks
Facemasks


Around The Home
Colourful bunting
Oven mitt
Tea cosy
Pot holders
Reusable kitchen towels
Coasters
Lavender sachets
Christmas stockings
Camera strap cover


Children’s Items
Babies bib
Child’s sun hat
Baby headbands
Patchwork quilts
Doll/Teddy clothes


Sewing Related
Needle holder
Pin cushion

Arty Ideas For Scrap Fabrics

There are so many fun ways to use scraps of fabric up. Recently, over on the Stitch Sewcial Facebook group, we had a member who helped her children with their school homework; they ended up creating beautiful collages with scraps of fabrics and the results were absolutely stunning.  If you're looking for some free tutorials I have also compiled a Pinterest board for you here! 
Picture


​If you fancy having a go at some more fun and practical makes, check out some of the free patterns we offer on our website: Start To Stitch Twist Headband Pattern, the Start To Stitch Face Covering Pattern, and the free Start To Stitch bunting pattern. We also offer beginner and intermediate courses that are hosted online with video tuition. 

Struggling with your machine? Head over to the Start To Stitch YouTube channel, where we have a variety of video tutorials designed to help you overcome some of the most common sewing machine issues, such as How To Change A Needle On Your Sewing Machine, and How To Wind A Bobbin Up On Your Sewing Machine.
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Beginner Sewing Tutorial: Sew your own Scrunchies

15/7/2021

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The humble scrunchie was a massive fashion trend in 2020, and it seems that they’ve not lost their appeal in 2021 either. Scrunchies are relatively cheap to buy, of course, but why contribute to the fast fashion industry when you can so easily make your own?

Scrunchies are the perfect project for sewing beginners 


Honestly, sewing your own scrunchies is probably one of the easiest sewing projects around, which makes it an absolutely perfect place for beginners to start. You only need a small amount of fabric - you can even use scrap fabric (link to how to use fabric scraps post) - some elastic, a safety pin, and your trusty sewing machine. 

Looking for more beginners projects?

At Start To Stitch, we want to share our love of sewing with as many people as possible. That’s why we offer FREE sewing patterns that are great for beginners. Once you’ve mastered the scrunchie, how about trying your hand at our Start To Stitch Free Bunting tutorial, our Free Facemask tutorial, or our free Twist Headband Tutorial? 

Once you’re comfortable with these projects, you might find that you want to take your sewing to the next level. We offer beginner and intermediate online sewing courses. In each course, you’ll learn new techniques and troubleshoot common issues, as well as create wonderful handmade items. Both courses are held through a dedicated Facebook Group, with detailed video tutorials. Live video support and weekly tutoring calls are also included as part of the course, meaning that support and encouragement is always only a click away. Head to our Online Courses page for more information.

How To Make Your Own Scrunchies.

First things first, gather your materials and tools. To make your own scrunchies, you will need:

  • Fabric scissors
  • A tape measure
  • Fabric
  • A safety pin
  • Elastic
  • Pins
 


How to make scrunchies, a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, you need to measure and cut your fabric to 22 inches x 3 1/2 inches. Next, measure your elastic out, you’ll need 9 inches. 

Fold your fabric in half so that the underside of the fabric is facing you, then pin to hold it in place. On one end, fold the fabric back 1/2 inch and secure with a pin. Stitch the outer edges together with a 1/4 inch seam to create a tube.

Pop your safety pin in the edge that you folded over and use it to help you turn the fabric right side out by passing it through the tube and pulling it out at the other end. 

Press the seam using an iron and then attach your safety pin to the end of your elastic. Use the safety pin to help you thread the elastic through the fabric tube, ensuring that on either side you can still hold the elastic.

Scrunch up your fabric and tighten the elastic slightly before tying off with a knot, alternatively you tighten your elastic slightly and then stitch the ends together. If you have chosen to tie a knot, rotate it so that it sits under the fabric.

Tuck the raw edge into the folded edge and then stitch down the join and you’re done!

Practise makes perfect! 


If you’re very new to sewing, this project might take around half an hour to complete. Make sure you double check your measurements before cutting and don’t feel disheartened if you go wrong somewhere! Stitches can be removed using a seam ripper, so don’t give up if at first you don’t succeed. Once you’ve mastered the art of making scrunchies, you’ll be able to make them in just a few minutes. Homemade scrunchies are a great way to use up scrap fabrics (scrap fabric link again OR sew slow 2020 fashion post etc) that you may have lying around, they also make great gifts.

Let me know how you got on!


Sewists of all levels are invited to join my free online community of friendly, helpful people who love to sew.

Pop over to our Facebook group,
Stitch Sewcial and introduce yourself - I would LOVE to see your take on this tutorial, so please post a picture and let us know how you got on!

​Stitch Sewcial is also a great place to ask for advice, seek new patterns, and natter away with like-minded people. If this sounds like something you’d benefit from on your sewing journey, please head on over and introduce yourself.


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How To Choose The Right Sewing Machine Needle

15/7/2021

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After you’ve chosen the right sewing machine for you, you’ll need to start thinking about the type of fabrics you’re planning to use, which will then help you to figure out the type of needle that is best suited for your needs. 

Your sewing machine will most likely have had an assorted pack of needles included in the box, however, if not, they’re commonly available in craft stores and online sites such as Amazon. Domestic sewing machine needles are standardised, so there’s generally no need to worry about whether or not the brand you’ve chosen will fit your machine.

If a needle is made for an industrial machine it will be listed for industrial machines and should be avoided.


JOIN MY FREE SEWING COMMUNITY OVER ON FACEBOOK!
​

​Stitch Sewcial is a friendly Facebook Group filled with helpful members who are always on hand to support you and offer advice. Feel free to ask any questions, share your projects and celebrate your sewing accomplishments! Sewists of all levels are welcome, so pop over and introduce yourself.

​To find out more about choosing the correct sewing machine needle for you, keep reading!


What do all the numbers mean?


In the UK and Europe, sewing machine needles range in sizes from 60 to 120, which refers to the diameter of the shaft just above the eye. US sewists measure the size of their needles differently; their system ranges from 8 to 19 and are usually paired with the European size, for example 60/8. The important thing to remember is: the bigger the number, the bigger the needle. As 60/8 is the lowest number, this means it’s a small needle that is ideal for lightweight fabrics. 

There are various types of needle points to consider...

When looking at your needle packs, you’ll notice they’re usually named after the point of the needle. Using needles with different tips can help sewists achieve a more ‘professional’ look when creating their pieces.


Universal needles work for most fabrics, which is fantastic if you’re a beginner looking to try your hand at making something quick and easy, such as our Start To Stitch Bunting, or the ever practical Start To Stitch Facemask. 

Ballpoint needles have a rounded tip, which works by pushing the fabric fibres apart. This makes ballpoint needles ideal for working on knit fabrics as it prevents the fabric of laddering. 

Stretch needles have a scarf which allows extra room for the hook to pass closely and prevent skipped stitches. Stretch needles are ideal for fabrics such as Lycra, silk jersey, Spandex, and any other elasticated stretch fabrics.

Sharps needles are designed to work with several layers of fabric and wadding, and are therefore often used by quilters. These needles have a strong shaft which helps to prevent bent and broken needles when working with several layers of fabric. The sharp point penetrates the fabric smoothly, producing smooth, even stitches and buttonholes.

Quilting needles also have a reinforced shaft, however they are significantly shorter than sharps needles. This helps quilters to quickly achieve even stitching - beginner quilters may find small needles easier to use at first, whereas more experienced quilters may prefer the larger needle options.

Special fabrics such as denim and leather require needles specifically produced for that fabric and will be labeled accordingly. 

How thick is your fabric?

As mentioned earlier, 60/8 needles are great for lightweight fabrics that flow freely, such as organdy. For a medium weight fabric like linen or Lycra, a 70/10 or an 80/12 needle works well. For heavier fabrics, including denim, upholstery and canvas, a 90/14 or 100/16 needle will be best suited. Finally, the 110/18 and 120/19 needles can be used for extremely heavy fabrics.


Finally, match your needle to your thread.

The thread you’re using needles to easily pass through the eye of the needle and fit snugly. Thick thread won’t fit through the eye of a small needle, so you’ll need to go up in size to find a needle that you can thread smoothly. Thread weights work in the opposite way to needle sizes, with the higher numbers being thinner and the lowest numbers being the thickest threads.

For a full explanation and some examples of the different types of needle - check out this video below! 



​Are you ready to take your sewing to the next level?


As your confidence grows and your love for sewing blossoms, you may wish to take your sewing to the next step. Here at Start To Stitch,we are proud to offer excellent valued courses for Beginners and Intermediate sewists.

In each course, you’ll learn new techniques and troubleshoot common issues, as well as create wonderful handmade items. Both courses are held through a dedicated Facebook Group, with detailed video tutorials. Live video support and weekly tutoring calls are also included as part of the course, meaning that support and encouragement is always only a click away.

Head to our 
Online Courses page for more information. 
​
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How to properly care for your sewing machine at home

15/7/2021

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Learning the basics of sewing machine maintenance is vital for sewists of all levels of experience. A poorly maintained sewing machine can cause havoc when you're working on projects, so it's best to know what to look out for and how to avoid it. 

Whether you’re mad about quilting, or determined to create a brand new wardrobe for yourself, there will inevitably come a time when you find your sewing machine isn’t functioning as well as it used to.

This blog post contains lots of information that will help you with the upkeep of your machine; the tasks are fairly simple, but extremely effective at ensuring your machine runs at its optimal level. 



Preventative Measures To Ensure Your Sewing Machine Stays In Tip-Top Condition

There are several preventative measures you can take to ensure that your sewing machine stays in tip-top condition. This list of maintenance tips are all quick and easy to do, so they shouldn’t get in the way of your precious sewing time!

  • Dust is the enemy of all machinery, therefore make sure to store your sewing machine under a dust cover or hard case to prevent dust from gathering.
  • Use good quality thread to reduce lint build up.
  • Regularly use a small paint brush to remove dust from inside the bobbin case.
  • Use a cloth to wipe down your sewing machine after each use, take a quick look in the bobbin case and clean away any build up of thread or lint that may cause damage to the machine. 

Only clean one part of your sewing machine at a time...
​
Although it may be tempting to completely dismantle your machine in order to do a thorough clean, this can very easily become confusing and turn your maintenance tasks into a stressful event. Instead of taking the machine apart completely, remove parts from one section at a time. 

Change needles regularly!

Sewing machine needles go through a lot, after all, each needle has to stitch thousands of stitches. Which means, after a while, the needle on your machine will become dull. It’s important to regularly replace sewing machine needles as dull needles can lead to skipped stitches, looped threads, and potentially even cause damage to your fabric. It’s recommended by experts that you change your needle every 8 hours, or after each project you’ve completed. If you’re unsure how to change your needle, take a look at our YouTube tutorial guide: How To Change A Needle On Your Sewing Machine.


Use compressed air to clear lint build up

After each project, give your machine a good clean as thread and lint can easily build up - even if you’re using the recommended high quality thread. Using compressed air is a great way to remove lint build up from feed dogs, tension discs and the bobbin case. When using compressed air to maintain your sewing machine, ensure you keep the nozzle at least 4 inches away from the machine to avoid introducing moisture to the inside of your machine.


Oiling your sewing machine

Sewing machines have a lot of moving parts and therefore benefit from being regularly oiled, just like most other machinery. It’s important that you use only oil specifically designed for sewing machines, as other oils may stain your fabrics. Ensure the machine is clean before applying a few drops of oil to the moving parts - your user manual will give you detailed instructions on how to do this. After you've finished oiling, run a few stitches with scrap fabric to soak up any excess oil before embarking on your next sewing project. 


Some sewing machines are self-lubricating, so be sure to check your user’s manual to see if oiling your machine is necessary.

Sewing Machine Repairs

It is inevitable that at some point, your machine will need repairs. Finding an experienced sewing machine specialist in your area is vital, as attempting to repair your machine yourself can make your issues even worse. It’s often the case that technicians work with particular brands of machine, so make sure to mention your machine’s brand when making enquiries. Luckily for Cornish sewists, I run the super friendly Facebook group, Stitch Sewcial, where member’s frequently share brilliant tips and tricks, as well as recommendations for various sewing machine services.


Ready to sew again? 

​
Once you’ve finished your sewing machine maintenance, you’re ready to get sewing once more. Here at Start To Stitch, we offer several free beginner patterns that are perfect for sewists to get stuck into. Choose from our Start To Stitch Bunting, Start To Stitch Free Twist Headband, or the ever practical Start To Stitch free Face Covering pattern. You can also check out our resource library too for more patterns. 

Start to Stitch Courses

Here at Start To Stitch, we are proud to offer excellent valued courses for Beginners and Intermediate sewists. In each course, you’ll learn new techniques and troubleshoot common issues, as well as create wonderful handmade items. Both courses are held through a dedicated Facebook Group, with detailed video tutorials.

Live video support and weekly tutoring calls are also included as part of the course, meaning that support and encouragement is always only a click away.

Head to our
Online Courses page for more information.



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    ​Sewing. pattern cutting, teaching, tea and Jelly Babies!

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