Teach yourself to sew stitch by stitch

Handmade products are becoming more and more popular. No wonder, because compared to cheaply produced mass-produced goods, these impress with their high quality materials and processing. However, you can only get an absolutely unique piece according to your taste if you make it yourself.

Basic equipment and basic knowledge for successful sewing

To yourself that sew To be able to teach, you first need basic equipment that includes a reliable sewing machine as well as fabrics and various threads:

• As a beginner, three sewing machine models are of interest to you: An electric free-arm sewing machine, ideally with a buttonhole function; a computer sewing machine that, in addition to the usual lock and zigzag stitches, produces a whole range of decorative stitches and a combination machine with which you can also do embroidery in addition to the actual sewing work can.
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• When choosing your sewing machine, pay attention to the accessories. This should at least consist of several universal sewing needles of different strengths (for fabrics of different thicknesses), various sewing feet (Universal, buttonhole, zipper, rolled hem) as well as a brush, screwdriver and sewing machine oil (for cleaning and care) exist. Bobbin thread bobbins are just as important as the size varies for different sewing machines. In addition, tailor's scissors, a set square, a marker and pins are useful helpers.
• Cotton fabrics are ideal for practicing. They are easy to cut and won't slip under the sewing machine. Always take a sample of the fabric with you when you buy yarn. So you are sure to find the right thread. If in doubt, use the lighter shade.


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So that the selected sewing projects do not end in frustration, you should deal with both the functions of your sewing machine and the various sewing techniques in advance:

• In the instructions for use supplied, you can find out the most important machine settings and how to use the yarn thread correctly, which presser foot is suitable for which technique and how to properly use your sewing machine maintain. In addition, most of the operating instructions provide information on basic seams and the various thread and needle sizes. They also give you an overview of how to overcast, sew buttonholes or use a zipper.
• A reference book is a recommended purchase for further information and as a reminder. The literature available in the trade often only differs in the presentation, but rarely in the content. Accordingly, a book that contains all the relevant sewing techniques is completely sufficient.

Literature tip: The book "Sewing - The Standard Work" from Topp Verlag guides you through the world of sewing. The reference work covers everything from A for appliqué to Z for zigzag stitch.

First sewing stitches and exercises

After studying the instructions for use and using a reference book, you should now be able to use the Thread the upper and bobbin thread, set the stitch type and length and correctly close the piece of fabric under the presser foot place. The first stitches consist of the straight stitch and the zigzag stitch, which you can use to do all the sewing work.

1. It starts with the straight stitch (also lock stitch). To do this, thread the thread as described in the manual for your sewing machine. Always start with the upper thread, as this is needed to pull the bobbin thread out. When threading, the needle should always be in the highest position. This is the only way to get all the parts you need.
2. Pull out the ends of the thread about four inches. This is necessary so that the needle has enough room to move up while the fabric is fed forward a little. The material is transported by itself. You just have to make sure that it stays straight.
3. At the beginning and the end of the seam you pierce twice forwards, twice backwards and then continue sewing as normal. This "locks" the seam and prevents it from being torn open.
4. If you want to sew two pieces of fabric together in the future, fix them in advance with pins that you attach horizontally to the edge of the fabric. Pull out the needles while sewing. You should not sew over the pins as this could damage them and the sewing machine.
5. Overcasting means that the piece is sewn between the topstitch seam and the open fabric edge to prevent the fabric from fraying. The zigzag stitch is ideal for this. Place the fabric in such a way that you pierce the fabric once and then next to it, i.e. into nothing. Remember to lock the seam.
6. The best way to sew the stitches is with a universal presser foot and a universal needle 130/705 H, size 80. The numbering of the needles indicates that they are suitable for all common household sewing machines. If the needle is sluggish to go through the fabric, use the next higher size.

Simple sewing projects are suitable for beginners accessories such as a pillowcase or a triangular scarf. Instructions for this can often be found free of charge on the Internet or in your reference work.

Conclusion: "No master has fallen from heaven yet", but with a little practice, patience and diligence you will soon have your first unique piece in your hands.