What do you think is the most valuable to spend on?💰 And what to save on in sewing? Take your sewing education even further and learn with me at Vintage Sewing School www.vintagesewingschool.com
I love the idea. I would like to refashion the material as well into scarves. I Love to wear scarves. Any tips on how-to? And also how to finish the edges?
Oh yes! When I throw away a clothing item not sound enough for the charity shop I always salvage what I can. Buttons are so expensive so saving them for another project is perfect. Save!
I recently bought a box at the second hand store because I liked the box, I didn't bother to look inside till I got home. It had been someone's seeing box! Treasure! English made needles, snaps, zips, pins, sewing machine needles, a pin cushion, lots of pretty old buttons, and a other sewing notions.
@@squirrelking9908 Go to estate sales or thrift stores, if they're open. Sometimes you can find good irons there, for a lower price. Or even a small one, for traveling could work in a pinch, as long as you don't plan on ironing large pieces, though if you need to, it will just be a bit annoying. Maybe you can borrow it when you need it? Or maybe you can ask some relatives if they have any spare?
I agree with everything except pins. Inexpensive pins dull easily, can pull on the fabric, and bend. Good quality pins aren’t that expensive, and I think are worth the few extra dollars. 😊🇨🇦
@@Evelyn__Wood that's why I use these metal pins with tiny heads -- they lay flat and they don't melt, and you can buy a ton of them for very cheap. On the other hand I've recently got a set of other pins as a gift with some order and ridiculously they just couldn't penetrate the fabric of my current project because they were too thick and the fabric very densely woven >
For fabric, I personally save on mock-up fabric, and spend on the final thing. Mostly because I simply refuse to wear polyester. I live in Brisbane, it’s hot and humid, and wrapping myself in plastic is the worst possible thing I could do to myself. I do keep an eye out for sales (especially for linen which is just so expensive!), but I won’t compromise on using natural fibres for my clothing. And because I’m poor, that means saving up. But it’s worth it!
I save on fabric for a toile by only making the part of the garment that needs fitting. Usually the bodice. With trousers I don't find it so easy and have to make the whole thing as I have plenty of bumpy parts on my legs! Very rare, if ever, to find bed sheets in charity shops here. I agree fully with you about polyester. It isn't hot in the UK but polyester is not suitable for comfortable wear. The only exception to that is cotton/polyester blend which is OK but I try to buy cotton unblended if I can.
Evelyn, I’m one of those “she who dies with the most fabric wins” types. However, that doesn’t mean that I spend heaps on good quality fabrics. I watch sales! I’ve read up on weaves, and take time at the store to check what the fabric jargon on the bolt end, and learned to use a burn test (with the store’s permission and direction of course) or do the test at home. I keep a printout of what different fabrics look like after a small swatch is burned to check against. So I’m also a “She who has died with most fabric has passed! Follow me to the Estate Sale !
Patterns! Bits and pieces of patterns from different garments and from different pattern companies frequently fit each other. Don’t see a collar that you know looks good on you in the pattern you like. Go to one you may own with that collar, take out the piece and check to see if it fits. Make a copy to tuck in with the new to you pattern and you are good to go. Practice with a sheet if the style is new to you! I have practice garments I’ve made and when finished wondered what I was thinking! Those ruffles, or the hang looks terrible on MY figure!
If you don't know if you like sewing yet then see if you can borrow a sewing machine. My local library has a few sewing machines in the maker space you can use for free and they have books, DVDs, and other like things. Check out your libraries and maybe even maker spaces or church groups. My grandmother is in a church group that sews children blankets for cop cars and stuff like that and I believe the church owns a few machines for that purpose.
For me, I wish I had started out knowing the basics, like what great cotton, linen and silk feels like, moves like ect. Because the thrift stores and estate sales are so crammed with fabric. I spent too much when I was starting out cause I thought that I could sort of spend my way into being a better sewer. But it turns out that just doing it, just gaining actual experience was more valuable than that initial idea that I had to buy the "right" stuff. I'm just really lucky in where I live (LA, California) for second hand stuff. I'd spend on education before I'd spend on the next latest greatest thing. The other thing that really helps is telling people that you sew and upcycle and recycle. Cause they give you stuff ... like crazy. The only problem with doing it all cheap, is that it can become cluttered and you have to try and stay organized and contained! Or the other people around you get all uppity. ha! They get all annoyed even though you're the one fixing their pockets, and sewing their hems!
When I started out sewing I only had my allowance to spend and use. I went to a fabric store and all the fabrics were usually 14 euros a meter. Also I had no idea how to buy fabric, if I should ask for square meters or how it was measured. The cheapest fabric they had was this thin polyester lining fabric (5€/m)so I got one meter, went home in excitement and started sewing. I cools barely cut out my pattern pieces because the fabric was not enough. Eitherway, I finished sewing a school girl uniform because I wanted to Cosplay a character from an Anime, don't even remember what Anime it was, but only problem was that the fabric was so wrinkly because it was so cheap. Again, I didn't know anything about fabrics and unbeknownst to me the iron was on the hottest setting and ruined 2 days of work. I wished I had kept the top because it was the first thing I made from scratch. Then again I am happy that I burned it so it will not see the light of day.
Great video! On most parts I totally sign, but on the one save regarding the sewing machine. My first sewing machine was a very very cheap one bought at a local supermarket (they have changing special offers every week with items they dont normally sell) and at first all was fine, but after a year or so I didnt had fun with my sewing any more... seams where uneven, yarn was breaking constantly etc. Everything what you would do to correct that didnt work (so changing tension, cleaning your machine properly etc.) so I thought I was the one making all the mistakes and Im "only bad at sewing" and nearly gave up. Then I was allowed to sew on the old machine my grandma had and it was a game changer. I changed nothing on the things I have done, but seams were neater and yarn was ok etc. So im totally for borrowing an old machine or buy one second or 3rd hand and save some money there, but please dont buy those cheap off-brand supermarket ones... If one of those is the only one you can afford right now... save your money a bit longer and sew by hand but save your nerves...
I bought a cheap Brother to replace my even cheaper White earlier this year. Even a slight improvement in a quality machine makes an enormous difference. I am still looking for a Bernina like my mom has. Beast of a machine, buts it's been running for 40+ years.
@@woodenkat8971 I started machine sewing last June with a £75 Hobbycraft special - it was a real machine, similar to the Brother or Janome entry level machines but at least £50 cheaper. Hand sewing was out for me because of pain and co-ordination issues, but that cheap machine taught me that not only was I not useless when sewing, but I enjoyed it too. I sold that on in October and bought myself a Brother that was quite a bit more expensive. It was worth having that cheaper machine to begin with as I learned a lot in a short space of time. And knew that I'd get my money's worth from a more advanced machine. The only advice I'd give anyone just starting out is don't buy one of those really small machines - they're not heavy enough to stay put and you'll drive yourself nuts trying to sew straight seams. It's all very well saying 'borrow a machine' but in order to do that, you've actually got to know someone who has a machine to spare. And I didn't and in these times when going out and about isn't an option, trekking round charity shops and the like aren't an option - plus if you know the square root of squit about sewing machines when you start, you're taking a risk buying something on eBay or similar. I got well and truly caught out when I bought my first spinning wheel that way - it wasn't a risk I was going to take again with something like a sewing machine. I will move on from my Brother to something with a few more stitches and a couple more features in time, but for now, my Brother is working for me - most of the time.
I feel like spending on needles and machine service should also be mentioned. If you look after your machine it will last so much longer, then save by learning how to look after it properly. I got my super simple LS14 for 60 and it included a whole load of cheap threads etc (it saved me £5 on the machine? 🤷♀️) but they are horrendous. They are so rough in comparison to nicer threads!
This is like how I cook. Ingredients matter. Quality makes a big difference, just like in sewing, things overlap, sewing and carpentry, both have to measure before cutting, etc. Measuring in cooking too. So some skills crossover to other things that you do.
I definitely agree on the shears. I started off just quilting (I'm branching out now, but the only garment I've made is a skirt), so I leaned pretty heavily on my rotary cutter and avoided scissors. I recently bought a pair of dressmaking shears and couldn't believe how smoothly they went through the fabric. Like, oh, that's how this is actually supposed to go.
I don’t quilt at all, but my cutting precision has improved so so much once I switched from shears to rotary cutters. If the cutter does not cut easily it is just time to change the blade. I hate how the shears lift the fabric - all those pins. With rotary cutters you just throw on a couple of pattern weights and off you go
@@nommh I'll switch back and forth depending on what I'm doing and what I feel comfortable with. I don't trust myself not to overshoot it on an interior angle with the rotary blade, for example.
@@hannahshepherd2108 Ah yes, but I think corners are always tricky. And now that I really think about it I started using the rotary cutter when I first made t-shirts, sometimes out of slinky knits.
I must admit that as my hands age using my shearers and scissors has become harder and harder, particularly because of the long seams in most things I sew. Rotary cutters hate me and it’s mutual. I’ve discovered the type of scissors and shearers that spring back open after each cut! Not as expensive, and I may have to buy new ones when they don’t sharpen well any more, but I’d rather do that than give up sewing!
I was working as a preschool teacher many years ago. I grabbed some scissors and started to cut. I said, "These are left handed scissors! " The other teachers tried them and didn't notice a difference. So I asked the manager who was a lefty, if she would try them. She told me there were left handed scissors, which of course I already knew. I asked if she would go and tell all of the teachers that, because they thought I was crazy! hahah How could they not notice?
@@SparkyOne549 I ended up getting a rotary cutter that isn’t specifically left handed, but one that has a straight handle and is not positioned on a particular side, definitely get you about that. That pains we must go through 😅
Oh sweetheart - left handed shears are worth their weight in gold. For us left handers, of course. Plus we then have the advantage of being able to use our scissors in either hand - 'cos we've always had a pair of right handed scissors as well, haven't we? When I bought the material to make a silk skirt, I refused to make a start until I'd also got my left handed shears - there was no way I was cutting into silk with my right hand scissors. I've never been able to cut a smooth line with right handed scissors.
Hey Evelyn! I’d love for you to make a video on interfacing! I’ve just been buying cheap fusible interfacing all my life and I’d love to learn what actual GOOD interfacing is supposed to be like
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 there is different interfacing for different fabric types :) sometimes you need the collar to be juust a little bit stiffer than the rest of the shirt! Vliseline is a brand that is well known and makes like 20 different types of interfacing
100% agreed on spending on good quality shears. Cutting fabric tends to be the part of the process I look forward to the least, and good sharp shears makes it go so much more quickly and easily. My pieces are also much more accurate as a result, which makes the sewing process smoother and more fun. I'd say the money saving choice I've made that's had the biggest impact has been choosing to learn traditional seam finishes instead of spending $$$ on a serger. As a poor graduate student, I was frustrated by the ubiquity of sergers and the perceived need to spend big on yet another machine when even a cheap new sewing machine could be quite pricey for someone on a budget (this was before I knew about thrifted machines). Learning to do a hong kong / bias bound finish, french seams, etc. is a nice economical alternative that makes the inside of finished garments look extra nice/fancy, and I feel like something with french seams or flat-felled seams is going to be more durable in the long run. These traditional / old-school methods are one of the reasons I was drawn to your channel in the first place and have learned so much since subscribing. I always look forward to new videos, thanks for all the wonderful content!!
I don't have a serger. I don't see the need for one. I usually just zig-zag the edges. But this past summer I was making day dresses with vintage patterns and fabrics and wanted it to look legit. So I used pinking shears.
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 I find it impossible to get left handed pinking shears here in UK. The right handed ones I cannot use and make my hands ache after the first cut. My overlocker (serger) is invaluable and does so much more than just finish seams.
@@lunasmum6869 I grew up in a family of 3 out of 7 as being lefties. Dad(leftie) was terrible at cutting so just had his 5 daughters/wife who are all very creative, do it for him. One sister learned to cut with her right hand, I don't know if I have ever seen/heard of left handed pinking shears.
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 I've found, being the only left-hander (officially - I'm pretty sure my father was as well, but he probably had it beaten out of him, as my grandmother would have put it) in my family, learning to use scissors in my right hand was a boon. No, I can't get left handed pinking shears - but I do now have left handed and right handed fabric shears which means I can use whichever hand is most convenient a lot of the time, instead of having to swing my fabric as I'm cutting it or contort myself in some way to get to that far seam. If only there was such a thing as a left handed sewing machine. Not having to keep reaching across with my left hand to push buttons because I'm still fairly strongly left-handed in many things would make life simpler.
@@somebodyelse138 My dad was one of the few mid 80's catholic school taught people who was left handed. When my grandma found out they were tying to force him to write with his right hand she wen t and hand a little talk with them. She said, "God made my son left handed and you are going to leave him alone.
Been sewing for over 50 years and I agree with you on every point, especially your distinction between the "materials" and scissors and the other "tools".
My only dissenting opinion to yours is to spend on your pins. Cheap pins in the United States will not pierce your fabrics without damaging it. Old pins from a thrift shop are probably better quality than new cheap pins. :)
Sewing/Cutting table. Save! Many of the preface ones are expensive and don’t fit your area. Buy two sturdy saw horses at your hardware or home store. Look around for a place that sells closet doors either salvaged or new, unfinished. Sand and put several layers of polyurethane sealer on one side (ask the person in the paint or hardware store for the stuff that dries completely hard. Paint will work too as long as it won’t soften if it gets hot. On the Flip side lay down several layers of old drapes, hideous are fine as long as they give you the thickness of an ironing board cover. Secure the edges of the drapes and maybe an old sheet to the outside thickness of the door and flop it on the saw horses. Decide how tall you want this table, get some large cans, fill with sand or gravel to bring the flat surface of your dual cutting/ironing board to the height comfortable for you! There is your big cutting and ironing board! It can be taken down and folded away if needed. Lots of little changes like side tape handles on the sides to help maneuver. Cut door to the size that will fit. Use 3/4” plywood instead of door. Glue tape measures to the edges or mark them with a felt tip. P.S. this also makes a great extra dining table for those large family gatherings we are looking forward to having again!
I wish we had thrift stores in the uk they look amazing. we just have tiny charity shops filled with plus size primark, some 70s kitchenware, a bunch of kids toys and not much else.
The cheapest pins can be really awful and even damage the fabric, but most good quality pins are not expensive. I use expensive pins only when working on very delicate projects, like entomology pins to drape and sew a silk satin biais cut dress : you have to pin a lot and make sure the pins dont mark the fabric
You can save on lighting. I bought my mom an Ottlite for her sewing that was crazy expensive. Yes it is high quality but 200$ is a bit much for a lamp. I realized that being able to position your light and the kind of light bulb you are using is what makes a difference. So I got a cheaper lamp but good bulbs
Well, I agree on everything else, but my biggest mistake was buying a cheap sewing machine when I first started. Its poor quality made everything difficult and I, being an absolute beginer, thought it was my fault. I almost gave up before even starting. Thank God, a late aunt of mine who was a keen and very experienced seamstress had me try her high quality machine. It was like a revelation. My humble opinion is, the less experienced the person the more high quality the sewing machine they need.
I agree. A good tool will make any job easier. Doesn’t have to be top of the line but a better quality is going to make it easier to sew and the success one feels will be such an encouragement.
Absolutely. A simple reliable machine is what a beginner needs. I was spoiled with a fancy hand-me-down quilting machine and that was a game changer for me when I was a newbie. My personal recommendation is get one of those old green Sears/ Kenmore sewing machines from the 50s-60s if they're common in your area. They sell really cheap and a trip to the sewing machine repair shop will get you a simple, foolproof machine that will take decades of use between repairs. I had a friend get a broken one for free and $150-200 in repairs later had her "new" favorite sewing machine.
I was visiting my family in CA and staying with one of my sisters. I was making masks and doing alterations while I was there. She is a beginner seamstress. I thought her machine, which is very, nice,(the name eludes me)had way too much power. When my great niece came to visit I was teaching her how to make masks. I normally would have let her sew the seams herself, but the machine had too much power and was a bit unpredictable. I like my Kenmore. This in coming from someone who is not a beginner seamstress.(47 yrs but who is counting..haha)
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 I taught the girl next door (10 yrs old) to sew. Of my two sewing machines, the one she felt most comfortable with was the one with the separate speed control. Makes sense! She’s also left handed so the fact that it has an automatic needle threader helped her with that aspect. The newer machines have fantastic lights as well.
I would recommend buying quilting pin as they are extra long, very sharp and hard to lose because they have a bright yellow head on them. I've had mine for over 30 years. My other recommendation for the lefties amongst us is to buy proper pair of left handed scissors. Be aware that just because a pair of scissors can be used left handed does not mean they are left handed. It is not just the handle that is the issue it is also how the blades run across each other. Again I had my Wilkinson Sword scissors for over 30 years and they are still going strong.
I buy cheap thread and use it for the tests I make. At my local fabric store they had 50 cent thread spools and that’s what I use those for! For Americans you can go to Walmart and they’ll have precut fabric for dirt cheap! You can get 2 yards for 2$, 4 yards for 4$ and it’s amazing! I’m new to sewing! I still haven’t made a garment (after I finish these last to projects I’m making some pjs!!!) and I knew that there were 4 sweaters and cardigans that are on my list to sew so I got my “test” fabric from Walmart. TheirdBric isn’t good for much else since it’s pretty crappy. You could be putting together your project and you’ll sew half of it up and all of a sudden you have holes all over the dang place! Ok, well, that’s what happens when I sew with their quilting cotton. I’m not sure if the knits and jerseys do the same thing. I haven’t gotten that far! And, great video as always! ❤️
For several years, I was unable to sit longer than 5 minutes. I treated myself to a push button Janome. It gave me some of my sanity back. Now that I can sit again - it's still a dream.
I buy my needles through Amazon to get a large number of various size needles from top manufacturers. I prefer the German ones and hate. Running out to the one store near me that carries them!
Hi Evelyn.Been watching you for a little while now and the 2 things I have got from you that were great ideas I didn't think of, was, notions from op shops and buying sheets from op shops to practice on. I'm on a roll now, cheers
I've switched from buying pdf patterns for kids to buying sewing pattern magazines because you get like 20 patterns for the price of one, already printed out, various styles and it's just faster to trace a different style of a hoodie than drafting it from scratch. However, when it comes to sewing for myself, I prefer drafting the embellishments using a basic pattern that I know that fits me.
I like the idea of PDFs. I don't like cutting the patterns that come pre-printed. What if I want to make it in one of the other sizes? And just transferring the size I want without cutting it is kind of a pain. With a PDF I can always reprint it:)
@@sunnydoom2726 Interesting - to me reprinting is much more time consuming than tracing. I never cut up my printed pdf patterns either. Besides -you cannot cut out a pattern from a magazine because the patterns lay on top of each other 🙂
We can easily find second hand snaps, buttons and zipper that are cheap and good quality. And on the other hand, they can be expensive in sewing shops and the quality isn't even better
I completely agree with your list! I wasted so much time (and tears) when I was young sewing on cheap fabric with bad scissors, thread, and interfacing. Those are the items that make or break a project.
If you live near a Daiso store, that can be a good place to save on sewing supplies! I’ve gotten button packs, zippers, bag strap webbing, bobbins, snaps, and pins all for $1.50 each! They have other stuff there too like needles and thread, which is probably not the best quality but it’s served me just fine too. What they have really depends on the store, and even the day though, so it’s worth checking the craft sections of different stores every now and again
I have used leftover thinned out soup bars for marking my fabrics and has worked like a charm every time, it’s a great way to save on marking tools. And repurposing the small pieces of leftover soap bars
I never buy patterns full price, I always just go through the pattern bargain bin whenever I go to the fabric store (they are 3-6$ instead of 20-25$) and I usually have some really good luck with them! Also my grandmother gives me patterns from time to time and I like 60's fashion so it works for me :)
My Bernina 1130 which I bought about 25 years ago has paid for itself many times over. Fabric in the USA is so expensive as to be out of reach for many of us. One has to watch the sales and buy the best one can afford. Thrift stores and estate sales can be a good resource if you can get there before the Ebay dealers show up. I can't agree about interfacing. Our grandmothers made do without fusibles and so do I. I can usually find some scrap of material in an appropriate weave and weight to use for a sew in interfacing when I need one. I do agree about good scissors. I bought shears and embroidery scissors which are imported from Italy and France and have never regretted the expense. Paying full price for a pattern nowadays is sheer insanity, IMHO. If you don't want to draft or alter your own, there are online services which will do it for you.
I just became a new subscriber to your channel. I'm looking forward to your videos and learning some real skills from you. I'd like to add a few more things to your topic on the sewing machines. First and foremost, I suggest to everybody to buy a vintage machine. No matter what these new machines can do. They're all made of cheap plastic. Even the higher-end models. And I absolutely refuse to spend hundreds, or worse, thousands of dollars on a sewing machine. Practically nobody needs a machine like that anyway. The best thing to do, is to ask family and friends if they might have a machine that they're not using. Or even if you have elderly neighbors, ask them if they have one that their not using. So you can get one for free {or almost free} and just do a little maintenance on it. Be creative and don't spend unnecessary money on a fancy sewing machine. Second, is to get a good sewing table or cabinet if your machine does not come with one. If you have to set up your machine every time you want to sew. It'll become a real hassle, and you won't sew. Keep your machine permanently set up and ready to go. Remember, out of sight, out of mind.
I have recently found your videos because I was looking on to complete a sewing task. I am self taught and still not very good and looking to improve so I can sew and mend for my family. At first I wasn't sure about your videos because of the vintage sewing; however, the more I watched your videos, the more I became addicted and have been binge watching. I thank you for all of your work that goes into creating them. Not only have you inspired me, you have made me aware of some things I was doing wrong and helped me in other areas. Now with the sewing machine, I had an electric machine and I had a VERY difficult time controlling the speed. We had spent money on a modern day treadle machine and "retrofitted" an old singer treadle cabinet to fit it. I have SO MUCH MORE control and actually enjoy sewing now. That is an area that we needed to spend on. Thank you again for your inspiring ideas and tutorials. My family has to listen to you as much as I do and now my 7 year old granddaughter is gettng involved. I never had anyone to teach me these skills and I am struggling along at 45. I am thankful that my granddaughter has this opportunity with me so she can learn as much with me.
Quite a lot of interesting discussion in the comments here about machines. There’s definitely a difference between a basic (but quality) machine and a cheap one. I deliberately chose a more basic model, as I really do not see myself using many of the fancy stitches. Of the 30 plus options and feet on mine, I generally only use 3 buttonhole styles, the options to back stitch / lock stitch, blind hemming, edge overcast, stretch stitch and zips. I’ve not yet used my rolled hem foot.
I got my first sewing machine for $20 and followed youtube tutorials & free patterns to get myself started and exploring different projects to practice techniques & how to use different materials
I learned to sew on my mother's very basic treadle machine. Now I have one with all the 'bells and whistles' and love, love it. I agree, though, that we don't need all these extras when learning to sew but they are wonderful fun. If you can afford it get the best.
I just got a sewing machine for Christmas and it took me a while to see anything my aunt put the fear of sewing machines in me from 11 years old. I took a step back and realized this was a lifestyle hobby I wanted no matter what. I already made a top and skirt out of old bedding sheets because I didn’t want to ruin nice material. It was after I finished my skirt that I found you and love your vids and can’t wait to learn from you.
We have something called the Goodwill Outlet, its a store where clothes and home goods are sold by the pound, whatever isn't sold is sent over seas. I go there and save vintage and modern clothes to resell and I find all sorts of things to help save on my sewing projects and its more eco friendly
Great video. I invested in a patterndrafting course and couture sewing online and books to teach me this skill. It has been so worth it as I've saved so much by making my own patterns. Not only in the patterns themselves but also in fabric & notions as garments now fit properly and I can alter previously made clothes to fit better too.
In my experience in using many different brands of sewing machines, Juki is the most "thread" sensitive about the thread the Juki will like or not. The Singer machines, especially the older models are the most forgivable and you can put any kind, the cheapest of cheap, and oldest thread Singer will hum and be happy. I began sewing when I was probably about 6 or 7 years old, I was not allowed to use sewing machine, so I did hand sewing for all my dolls and dolls of all my friends and neighbors, and interesting that helped me so much in design, because I had no idea how to follow a pattern and none were available to me at the time, so I just made the little dolls clothes as I went along. I encourage any child interested in sewing early as they become interested.
Needles are a spend for me. The difference between a cheap and an expensive hand sewing needle is relatively small in dollars, but huge in terms of ease of use and finish achieved. Another way to save on quality fabric is search out designer dead stock and buy in bulk. My favourite source does a 20% discount on 10 metres or more... so I buy samples, test how it takes dye and then buy the winners in bulk.
I've always struggled with cheaper marking pens/crayons/chalk. They pull, don't transfer well, and break. Then I found the magical chalk mechanical pencils - no going back now! They're super precise and transfer clearly and cleanly. I'm not a voracious sewist so I'm not worried about using up the "lead" too fast, which may be considered expensive. For light-colored cotton I've found regular mechanical pencil to work great too. As long as the marks are on the wrong side I never see them again; I think they wash out well. Naturally, this might not be great on fancier fabrics, but it'll work when you are just starting out.
This is a great idea for a video. As somebody on a fixed income it's good to have this advice so I can plan accordingly when I make purchases for projects. Also I made the mistake of trying to cut fabric using paper scissors once. I know as mistakes go it's much better than trying to cut paper with fabric scissors but even so it was so hard to cut the fabric I know it's a mistake I'll only make once ;)
@@Evelyn__Wood It felt AWFUL. I think the scissors themselves were silently screaming in pain. Luckily it was just a practice project so no harm done on having bad edges but yeah. *shudder*
I’d like to add a good quality silk sheer organza pressing cloth to the “spend” list. I bought a quarter metre of this fabric and hemmed it on my overlocker. It’s wonderful for protecting delicate or woollen fabrics during construction pressing. An expensive initial outlay but worth every penny.
Great video! I agree on all of them. I thought however you were gonna say spend on machine 😂 But you are right - a simple good quality machine second hand is the best beginner investment. I just know that so few people outside the sewing world know how expensive machines can be and a machine that is sewists are thinking is cheap (like $200 new) is in non-sewists eyes expensive and then they go and buy these super cheap “supermarket” machines for like $30-$50 that seem to cause them so much headache. I do not know if you have those super cheap machines in Australia but I have seen them a lot in Europe! So stay away from those but get a good quality brand used.
Yes!! Well, not quite that cheap in Australia, but the same machine for sure! You are right about the machine price and perspective. I wish I had thought to mention it in the video! They are garbage and would put me off sewing..... maybe that would make a good video??
@@Evelyn__Wood Yes! I think that would be a great video and also very educational for beginners, but also a great debate for us more experienced sewists.. 😉
Thanks for your quality content. Always look forward to new videos from your channel! Your positive vibe and practical sewing advice is just what new sewists need. I’m experienced but am always learning- thank you!
It sounds so odd, but I totally agree on the sewing machine. I have some expensive ones now that Good luck prying them from my cold dead hands, but when I started out, all I really needed was a sturdy machine that sewed forwards and backwards and had a zigzag. That was it, and I didn't upgrade until it died, and by then, I was up to being able to handle a few bells and a couple of whistles.
I have bought a few sewing books with patterns in them and they are so handy to get a set of basic patterns that you can build off. For example, I'm currently making a dress taking the bodice pattern from a jumpsuit and the sleeve pattern adapted from another pattern, particularly for the cuff and plaquet.
I totally agree with your recommendations! When I was a lot younger and a lot poorer I often used low quality fabric bc it was cheaper. And scissors!! Yes! What a difference it makes to have good scissors! I will admit as I’ve gotten older and more prosperous I indulge in buying tools and toys that are not essential but are just fun to have.
Whenever I'm looking for a new pattern to sew I check out the local library's collection of sewing magazines. Here in Finland we usually have Burda's. I loan the magazines that I want, trace the patterns and take pictures of the instructions. You can also search Burda's website (not the best IMO) for their patterns and it usually tells which magazine they were featured in.
I save on patterns. A good pattern that you know how it fits you can then be modified. I have a favourite vogue maxi-dress and I have modified the bodice and sleeves to create looks I wear. Thrifted patterns are also a nice save. Thread - cheap thread is chewed up by the machine and doesn't whole up when hand sewing.
Spend on fabric and shears. The lady at the store where I bought my dressmaking shears told me not to allow anyone to cut with the shears as each person has a different manner of holding the shears. It can dull your blades quicker
I agree with you on all but one thing. Pins! I use different pins for different fabric. When I started out making my own sewing stash I had the pins that came in my husband's shirts. They were short some were rough and to short to use on thicker fabric. I learned quickly to use longer pins for thicker fabric. Throw them away when they get dull or bent or ruff.
I do loving making mock-ups with sheets. But they are vintage and pretty so I can wear the mock-up if I like the way it fits. My niece bought me a package of tiny little plastic spools with all types of different colored thread. I put the date on it and have it in my sewing room. Because I would never consider using the cheap thread. An old boyfriend bought me a really nice pair of scissors over 35 yrs ago because I was making him a jacket and my scissors were not working. I have one good pair then several pairs of "play" scissors. I was making a dress this summer from a vintage pattern. I did a mock up first. My mom x-stitched the yoke to match the fabric. I had tried all types of marking devices for the buttonholes. I needed a clear,crisp mark. I could not screw it up because mom spent more hours x-stitching the yoke than I did making the dress. So I actually bought some fabric markers at Joannes. The first time ever. It was so worth it.
I picked up 5 patterns today for US$1.99 each and 2 yards of plaid rayon for $5.10 a yard. I was giddy! Funny you mention saving on sewing machines. I bought my 22 years ago (and didn't pay a lot then). Today, my husband asked if I wanted to buy a new one, I told him "No, mine is still good".
Most of my machines are 70's models, purchased 2nd hand, tip for buying new, watch the model you like , see how price ranges are moving. Finally got a serger 2 yrs back. Paid 500 txs in for a machine that some places were still charging 1100 for. Called Singer & asked if the serger was almost to end of run. Got told they were in the process of switching off Model run. What I paid would be lowest possible price
I buy expensive thread when on sale buy 3, get 2 free. I wait and wait for the sale. I use only KAI scissors but save money on upkeep because they stay sharp forever. I usually get a show discount at Sew Expo. So I do get nice things but budget and wait for deals. Last time I got $60 of free thread because I waited for the deal and had a huge restock list. I use cheap muslin and again, wait for a sale so it is below $2 a yard. Great video...Oh and I got a very nice home industrial Juki when I sewed my sons wedding suit as my discount machines I wasn't going to trust on 7 months of work! But again, got on sale, put on payments where if you paid it of in 12 months there was no interest so my fun money went there for a year and I can't tell you how worth it it is! Changed my pleasure in quilting and sewing because I can rely on my machine
Spend: A serger (over locker) isn’t necessary, but it sure makes life easier!! Mine is second hand and was not expensive. Save: Also my local JoAnn’s regularly has 99 cent pattern sales, so I save on those!
Patterns often ask for more fabric than I need (I am petite). Adjusting the pattern for my height and actually measure how much I need, for me it is the biggest saving. AND than I am not left with huge fabrics leftovers that I feel I should find a way to use.
My biggest buy is interfacing. It is so hard to find locally so I splurged on 2 weights of interfacing and some fusible fleece Now I have almost everything I feel I need, other than a busk for my corset lol
I nabbed an all pink, Hello Kitty themed Janome sewing machine on clearance at a Target store about 10 years ago for 44.26 (it still has the price tag on the box)! I didn’t sew at the time, but couldn’t resist the idea of having a staple home product that was so cute and figured I’d need it some day. Wow! What a great purchase I’ve found out it was! It only has basic stitches, but it does all the jobs I need it to and makes the job so easy! Now that I know how amazing a simple machine can be, I strongly recommend searching out the best deal for a quality, simple sewing machine!
I did spend on a sewing machine even though I'm just starting to see now. I decided to get the best machine I could afford as an investment. I'll grow with it hopefully and not need to replace it. I did buy a bolt of muslin to practice with though and wish I'd just gone for bedsheets at a thriftstore because it used up what was left of my budget and now I have to wait to get actual fabric for making the clothes I want. At least I can practice a lot while I'm waiting
Another very good video, Evelyn. I agree with you except for the pins and needles. It's worth spending a bit more for good pins. Cheap pins are not reliable at all. I have found cheap pins are different widths in a package, meaning some are too thin and bend easily and others are too thick and don't go through fabric well.
I complete agree with spending on interfacing Evelyn. After too many issues with puckering, lifting, glue showing on the right side of thinner fabrics in the form of little dots (ugh!!) I now only use sew in interfacing and only cotton as well. I feel that the amount of time and effort that I put in, as well as the longevity that I want for my garments, means that I don't want to use either polyester interfacing or glue in them. Further to that, I now have also switched from Gutermann thread which I had issues with with hot irons, to the wonderful Rasant which is a poly core but cotton outside. Its beautiful thread that doesn't break, kink, shred etc. and blends really well with fabric colour-wise so I am able to use one colour of thread on a variety of coloured fabrics - more economical that way. You can also buy a colour card so that you can colour match in the comfort of your own home. The bonus too is that it is cheaper than Gutermann - I buy my 1000m for under AUD$6.00!!
Great video, really enjoyed listening to that one! Thank you 🤗 and very glad I "only" paid £229 for my first sewing machine as I was set on spending more than that initially :) luckily really enjoyed my first in-person sewing class, I made a tote bag 😁
Thank you so much for your helpful content Evelyn as always Evelyn! I think a High quality, sturdy scissors are a must. Also, keep an eye on sales for fabrics.
I agree with spend on fabric, thread and shears or scissors. I also recommend a newer machine. I tried an older one and it was miserable for me. I love Janome. Great video, Evelyn!
I would complicate the question a bit by combining the save vs spend aspect with buying vintage vs buying new. For tools like sewing machines and scissors, my advice would be to spend more on buying good quality high end vintage ones *and* having them serviced, instead of saving on new low or mid range ones. Also for buttons, zippers, pins and needles, save both money and aggravation by thrifting for old unused ones of good quality rather than spending on new low quality ones!
I started learning to sewing in 2018, I was lucky that one of my friends who has been a seamstress for 20years was willing to teach me for free. I bought my first sewing machine from Aldi here in Australia, it was a Janome-rebrand machine. Only cost me$99 , it came with basic sewing tools like seam ripper, needles etc. It’s one of my best investments. I get my patterns from sales in spotlight or op shops etc. often time I like to get inspired from some of my fav brands, I go into stores and turn the garment inside out to see how they finish the seam, do the buttons etc to make the final garments professional finish rather than “home-made” look. I got my very first overlocker from Aldi a year later in 2019, I love my overlocker and sewing machine .
Definitely save on the sewing machine. Find a vintage machine. Mine is a 1972 Kenmore. All metal (except the knobs), strong, durable,versatile, easy to adjust, easy to service. $20 at a thrift shop, with manual and accessories. I had to clean and lubricate, replace the needle and go.
I have an old singer about the same age, more heavy duty than the new heavy duty but it only has 3 stitches. I got s newer basic machine for the extra 18 stitches, i found i only use 5 at the most. But for denim or any heavier fabric i use the older singer.
Cheap interfacing has its place. I keep a certain amount on hand for practice garments. How the cheap stuff holds up on the practice determines how expensive I go for the final version.
Notions can be free when you upcycle old unwearable, unthriftable clothes, backpacks, and purses. They're also perfect for patch material when you mend clothes, which is a great way to build on hand sewing skills. Also, using inexpensive, comfortable muslin for your toiles means you can turn it into a nice warm lining on your final clothes.
I agree with your assessments! Especially regarding scissors and shears. High quality scissors make for more accurate cutting, less fatigue, and they're really fun to sail through fabric!
I would agree absolutely on spending on materials... having had some *interesting* dye jobs happen from cheaper ones. Those of you who have seen Paddington 2 will know where I'm coming from! (I now have a lovely purple towel, from pre-washing some suffragette purple cotton to make a ful petticoat with). Maybe some thrift shop/cheap cotton towels would be a useful addition as colour catchers when pre-washing dark fabrics? Match fibres... so a cotton towel for cotton materials etc. (as different material fibres require different dye chemistry). I'm lucky that when my mother upgraded her sewing machine (maybe 1987), I acquired her previous one, the fabulous Elna Air Electronic (c. 1980). Good quality workhorse, with some bells and whistles (speed control, built-in buttonhole), but no fancy computerisation to go wrong. I recently spent (rather a lot) of money to have it overhauled, and was told by the sewing machine shop owner that it would have been around £500 when new in 1980!
I also stock up on clearance items from the fabric stores' remnant bins for experiments. But I wouldn't skimp on buttons and zippers. Nothing brings down a beautiful garment more quickly than an eyesore plastic button that will quickly chip or split or a tacky zipper that will rapidly get stuck, slip open, or lose its pull tab. :-/
Many thanks, Evelyn, this is very useful. I can tell from my own experience that buying low quality thread is a disaster. I have ordered some from AliExpress and it worked so badly oh my god, even in the machine. With a serger it's even worse, it is very sensitive for the thread quality.
Thanks for tip about thrifted bedsheets - I heard you mention it in a previous video! I picked some up the other day and it has so helpful for this beginner!
@@lunasmum6869 It's sometimes hit or miss for me, unfortunately. I'm in the US and some thrift stores are definitely more likely to have them than others.
Steel ruler. I like longer and fuller items and a steel yard/meter is stuck to the side of my board with magnets. For my very long ruler/straight edge I went to the home store wood department and bought an 8 foot piece of plain trim for a dollar, marked my measurements on it and keep it along the baseboard.
That's a really helpful video, thanks :) I just finished my first hoodie and I love it sooo much 🤩 And as you said, I can reuse the pattern in so many ways if I just tweak it here and there. Something I do a lot is pick up fabric at clothing swaps, give boxes or roadside giveaways. Obviously, its not just pieces of fabric but clothes, scarves or tabe cloths. Thrift shops aren't really a thing here in Germany. But what I find I can use in ao many ways, even if its just for practice.
I bought a Prym Parallel tracing wheel,it's so useful. Got it cheap too. I bought a box of 30 sewing feet, most I don't use, got these cheap too. Theres about 5 really useful ones that I use to sew slippy fabric and to gather, turn a tiny seam. I bought a cheap Singer years back, maybe I should invest in a heavy duty or is it an overlocker zigzag stich? I have to hide my scissors, my bf ruined my last 2 cutting up plastic etc
Easy way to save... Crayola Washable Fine Tip Markers for kids...These mark any washable fabric and they have never failed to wash out even after ironing. I have used some expensive fabric markers that were a disaster and cost a fortune. The washable Crayola sell in a pack of 12 colours and cost less than one fabric marker!
I agree with you but scissors are the bane of my life! Why do manufacturers say "Suitable for left or right handed users!" when they haven't bothered to think about the way the blades are put together? For left handed people the blades need to be the opposite way than those for right handed users. The only way to get over this is to SPEND on really good quality scissors! I have bought many pairs of scissors over the years before I found why I was having problems where the blades weren't keeping together to cut. I sharpened them but the same problem. The pressure with left handed use pushes the blades apart whereas, if the blades are the other way, they don't. That was a revelation and now I have good left handed scissors. What I am really getting at here is that, if you are left handed, only buy true left handed scissors and (for all users) buy from the best makers. Money well spent. Sorry to ramble but it is a subject I feel very strongly about.
I will have to disagree on the zips. I have been put into compromising situations in clothes where i put in cheaper zips. I would rather spend a bit more on a zip than to be stuck in the toilet or a changing room with my zip refusing to come up (and that has happened so many times!😭).
What do you think is the most valuable to spend on?💰 And what to save on in sewing?
Take your sewing education even further and learn with me at Vintage Sewing School www.vintagesewingschool.com
Do you include step by step pattern tutorials?
Re: zippers, buttons, fasteners. Harvest these items from old clothes you no longer wear. I never let a button or zipper go into the garbage.
Definitely a great place to get these from!
I love the idea. I would like to refashion the material as well into scarves. I Love to wear scarves. Any tips on how-to? And also how to finish the edges?
Oh yes! When I throw away a clothing item not sound enough for the charity shop I always salvage what I can. Buttons are so expensive so saving them for another project is perfect. Save!
great idea. Have to start doing this now.
I recently bought a box at the second hand store because I liked the box, I didn't bother to look inside till I got home. It had been someone's seeing box! Treasure! English made needles, snaps, zips, pins, sewing machine needles, a pin cushion, lots of pretty old buttons, and a other sewing notions.
The sewing gods are smiling you! 😆
What a wonderful find!
Eventually a good iron is a spend area because a good press makes a difference. For starters use what you have available.
I agree about a good iron. These do show up at yard sales and thrift stores.
Yes. What you have is good enough at first, but later down the line, you'll want a better or a new one.
I was so tired of having an awful iron. It is up the whole time I am sewing. My hubby bought me a new one this Christmas and I love it!
What if i have no iron? Is there a middle ground where I don’t spend more than $25? Or are the more expensive ones worth it?
@@squirrelking9908 Go to estate sales or thrift stores, if they're open. Sometimes you can find good irons there, for a lower price. Or even a small one, for traveling could work in a pinch, as long as you don't plan on ironing large pieces, though if you need to, it will just be a bit annoying. Maybe you can borrow it when you need it? Or maybe you can ask some relatives if they have any spare?
I agree with everything except pins. Inexpensive pins dull easily, can pull on the fabric, and bend. Good quality pins aren’t that expensive, and I think are worth the few extra dollars. 😊🇨🇦
Agree! Also, they can be longer (the good ones) and that helps too
I only buy good glass head pins that won't melt and store them in a pin cushion filled with sharp sand, which cleans and sharpens.
I agree Polly, it is work the upgrade of you can manage it! The security of no melt glass head is comforting especially when you start! 😀
@@Evelyn__Wood that's why I use these metal pins with tiny heads -- they lay flat and they don't melt, and you can buy a ton of them for very cheap. On the other hand I've recently got a set of other pins as a gift with some order and ridiculously they just couldn't penetrate the fabric of my current project because they were too thick and the fabric very densely woven >
I have to agree. A good quality thin pin is such a game changer. Now I’m not sure how I ever used the cheap ones.
For fabric, I personally save on mock-up fabric, and spend on the final thing.
Mostly because I simply refuse to wear polyester. I live in Brisbane, it’s hot and humid, and wrapping myself in plastic is the worst possible thing I could do to myself. I do keep an eye out for sales (especially for linen which is just so expensive!), but I won’t compromise on using natural fibres for my clothing.
And because I’m poor, that means saving up. But it’s worth it!
Thrift high quality linen garments whenever possible!!!
I save on fabric for a toile by only making the part of the garment that needs fitting. Usually the bodice. With trousers I don't find it so easy and have to make the whole thing as I have plenty of bumpy parts on my legs! Very rare, if ever, to find bed sheets in charity shops here. I agree fully with you about polyester. It isn't hot in the UK but polyester is not suitable for comfortable wear. The only exception to that is cotton/polyester blend which is OK but I try to buy cotton unblended if I can.
Evelyn, I’m one of those “she who dies with the most fabric wins” types. However, that doesn’t mean that I spend heaps on good quality fabrics. I watch sales! I’ve read up on weaves, and take time at the store to check what the fabric jargon on the bolt end, and learned to use a burn test (with the store’s permission and direction of course) or do the test at home. I keep a printout of what different fabrics look like after a small swatch is burned to check against. So I’m also a “She who has died with most fabric has passed! Follow me to the Estate Sale !
😂😂😂 Both you and me Wanda. Most of my favourite is in storage right now but I love to just look at it, touch it, and just generally enjoy having it! 😄
Patterns! Bits and pieces of patterns from different garments and from different pattern companies frequently fit each other. Don’t see a collar that you know looks good on you in the pattern you like. Go to one you may own with that collar, take out the piece and check to see if it fits. Make a copy to tuck in with the new to you pattern and you are good to go.
Practice with a sheet if the style is new to you! I have practice garments I’ve made and when finished wondered what I was thinking! Those ruffles, or the hang looks terrible on MY figure!
If you don't know if you like sewing yet then see if you can borrow a sewing machine. My local library has a few sewing machines in the maker space you can use for free and they have books, DVDs, and other like things. Check out your libraries and maybe even maker spaces or church groups. My grandmother is in a church group that sews children blankets for cop cars and stuff like that and I believe the church owns a few machines for that purpose.
For me, I wish I had started out knowing the basics, like what great cotton, linen and silk feels like, moves like ect. Because the thrift stores and estate sales are so crammed with fabric. I spent too much when I was starting out cause I thought that I could sort of spend my way into being a better sewer. But it turns out that just doing it, just gaining actual experience was more valuable than that initial idea that I had to buy the "right" stuff. I'm just really lucky in where I live (LA, California) for second hand stuff. I'd spend on education before I'd spend on the next latest greatest thing. The other thing that really helps is telling people that you sew and upcycle and recycle. Cause they give you stuff ... like crazy. The only problem with doing it all cheap, is that it can become cluttered and you have to try and stay organized and contained! Or the other people around you get all uppity. ha! They get all annoyed even though you're the one fixing their pockets, and sewing their hems!
When I started out sewing I only had my allowance to spend and use. I went to a fabric store and all the fabrics were usually 14 euros a meter. Also I had no idea how to buy fabric, if I should ask for square meters or how it was measured. The cheapest fabric they had was this thin polyester lining fabric (5€/m)so I got one meter, went home in excitement and started sewing. I cools barely cut out my pattern pieces because the fabric was not enough. Eitherway, I finished sewing a school girl uniform because I wanted to Cosplay a character from an Anime, don't even remember what Anime it was, but only problem was that the fabric was so wrinkly because it was so cheap.
Again, I didn't know anything about fabrics and unbeknownst to me the iron was on the hottest setting and ruined 2 days of work.
I wished I had kept the top because it was the first thing I made from scratch. Then again I am happy that I burned it so it will not see the light of day.
Great video! On most parts I totally sign, but on the one save regarding the sewing machine.
My first sewing machine was a very very cheap one bought at a local supermarket (they have changing special offers every week with items they dont normally sell) and at first all was fine, but after a year or so I didnt had fun with my sewing any more... seams where uneven, yarn was breaking constantly etc. Everything what you would do to correct that didnt work (so changing tension, cleaning your machine properly etc.) so I thought I was the one making all the mistakes and Im "only bad at sewing" and nearly gave up.
Then I was allowed to sew on the old machine my grandma had and it was a game changer. I changed nothing on the things I have done, but seams were neater and yarn was ok etc.
So im totally for borrowing an old machine or buy one second or 3rd hand and save some money there, but please dont buy those cheap off-brand supermarket ones... If one of those is the only one you can afford right now... save your money a bit longer and sew by hand but save your nerves...
I bought a cheap Brother to replace my even cheaper White earlier this year. Even a slight improvement in a quality machine makes an enormous difference. I am still looking for a Bernina like my mom has. Beast of a machine, buts it's been running for 40+ years.
@@woodenkat8971 I started machine sewing last June with a £75 Hobbycraft special - it was a real machine, similar to the Brother or Janome entry level machines but at least £50 cheaper. Hand sewing was out for me because of pain and co-ordination issues, but that cheap machine taught me that not only was I not useless when sewing, but I enjoyed it too. I sold that on in October and bought myself a Brother that was quite a bit more expensive. It was worth having that cheaper machine to begin with as I learned a lot in a short space of time. And knew that I'd get my money's worth from a more advanced machine.
The only advice I'd give anyone just starting out is don't buy one of those really small machines - they're not heavy enough to stay put and you'll drive yourself nuts trying to sew straight seams. It's all very well saying 'borrow a machine' but in order to do that, you've actually got to know someone who has a machine to spare. And I didn't and in these times when going out and about isn't an option, trekking round charity shops and the like aren't an option - plus if you know the square root of squit about sewing machines when you start, you're taking a risk buying something on eBay or similar. I got well and truly caught out when I bought my first spinning wheel that way - it wasn't a risk I was going to take again with something like a sewing machine.
I will move on from my Brother to something with a few more stitches and a couple more features in time, but for now, my Brother is working for me - most of the time.
I feel like spending on needles and machine service should also be mentioned. If you look after your machine it will last so much longer, then save by learning how to look after it properly. I got my super simple LS14 for 60 and it included a whole load of cheap threads etc (it saved me £5 on the machine? 🤷♀️) but they are horrendous. They are so rough in comparison to nicer threads!
This is like how I cook. Ingredients matter. Quality makes a big difference, just like in sewing, things overlap, sewing and carpentry, both have to measure before cutting, etc. Measuring in cooking too. So some skills crossover to other things that you do.
I definitely agree on the shears. I started off just quilting (I'm branching out now, but the only garment I've made is a skirt), so I leaned pretty heavily on my rotary cutter and avoided scissors. I recently bought a pair of dressmaking shears and couldn't believe how smoothly they went through the fabric. Like, oh, that's how this is actually supposed to go.
I don’t quilt at all, but my cutting precision has improved so so much once I switched from shears to rotary cutters. If the cutter does not cut easily it is just time to change the blade. I hate how the shears lift the fabric - all those pins. With rotary cutters you just throw on a couple of pattern weights and off you go
Right!!! Good shears make all difference!
@@nommh I'll switch back and forth depending on what I'm doing and what I feel comfortable with. I don't trust myself not to overshoot it on an interior angle with the rotary blade, for example.
@@hannahshepherd2108 Ah yes, but I think corners are always tricky. And now that I really think about it I started using the rotary cutter when I first made t-shirts, sometimes out of slinky knits.
I must admit that as my hands age using my shearers and scissors has become harder and harder, particularly because of the long seams in most things I sew. Rotary cutters hate me and it’s mutual. I’ve discovered the type of scissors and shearers that spring back open after each cut! Not as expensive, and I may have to buy new ones when they don’t sharpen well any more, but I’d rather do that than give up sewing!
Finally got my hands on some left handed shears. Hopefully this means an end to my cutting struggles 😩
I was working as a preschool teacher many years ago. I grabbed some scissors and started to cut. I said, "These are left handed scissors! " The other teachers tried them and didn't notice a difference. So I asked the manager who was a lefty, if she would try them. She told me there were left handed scissors, which of course I already knew. I asked if she would go and tell all of the teachers that, because they thought I was crazy! hahah How could they not notice?
I know what you man, I’m looking for a left handed rotary cutter also. I did find one eventually.
@@SparkyOne549 I ended up getting a rotary cutter that isn’t specifically left handed, but one that has a straight handle and is not positioned on a particular side, definitely get you about that. That pains we must go through 😅
Oh sweetheart - left handed shears are worth their weight in gold. For us left handers, of course. Plus we then have the advantage of being able to use our scissors in either hand - 'cos we've always had a pair of right handed scissors as well, haven't we?
When I bought the material to make a silk skirt, I refused to make a start until I'd also got my left handed shears - there was no way I was cutting into silk with my right hand scissors. I've never been able to cut a smooth line with right handed scissors.
Hey Evelyn! I’d love for you to make a video on interfacing! I’ve just been buying cheap fusible interfacing all my life and I’d love to learn what actual GOOD interfacing is supposed to be like
I agree. I would not know what is good interfacing compared to bad.
I agree! I have no idea how to judge the quality of good versus bad interfacing.
I rarely use interfacing. I don't like the way it looks. The collars and front facings look too stiff.
I really need to know this. Actually, I didn't know there was a difference.
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 there is different interfacing for different fabric types :) sometimes you need the collar to be juust a little bit stiffer than the rest of the shirt! Vliseline is a brand that is well known and makes like 20 different types of interfacing
100% agreed on spending on good quality shears. Cutting fabric tends to be the part of the process I look forward to the least, and good sharp shears makes it go so much more quickly and easily. My pieces are also much more accurate as a result, which makes the sewing process smoother and more fun. I'd say the money saving choice I've made that's had the biggest impact has been choosing to learn traditional seam finishes instead of spending $$$ on a serger. As a poor graduate student, I was frustrated by the ubiquity of sergers and the perceived need to spend big on yet another machine when even a cheap new sewing machine could be quite pricey for someone on a budget (this was before I knew about thrifted machines). Learning to do a hong kong / bias bound finish, french seams, etc. is a nice economical alternative that makes the inside of finished garments look extra nice/fancy, and I feel like something with french seams or flat-felled seams is going to be more durable in the long run. These traditional / old-school methods are one of the reasons I was drawn to your channel in the first place and have learned so much since subscribing. I always look forward to new videos, thanks for all the wonderful content!!
I don't have a serger. I don't see the need for one. I usually just zig-zag the edges. But this past summer I was making day dresses with vintage patterns and fabrics and wanted it to look legit. So I used pinking shears.
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 I find it impossible to get left handed pinking shears here in UK. The right handed ones I cannot use and make my hands ache after the first cut. My overlocker (serger) is invaluable and does so much more than just finish seams.
@@lunasmum6869 I grew up in a family of 3 out of 7 as being lefties. Dad(leftie) was terrible at cutting so just had his 5 daughters/wife who are all very creative, do it for him. One sister learned to cut with her right hand, I don't know if I have ever seen/heard of left handed pinking shears.
@@judyjennings-gunther4022 I've found, being the only left-hander (officially - I'm pretty sure my father was as well, but he probably had it beaten out of him, as my grandmother would have put it) in my family, learning to use scissors in my right hand was a boon. No, I can't get left handed pinking shears - but I do now have left handed and right handed fabric shears which means I can use whichever hand is most convenient a lot of the time, instead of having to swing my fabric as I'm cutting it or contort myself in some way to get to that far seam.
If only there was such a thing as a left handed sewing machine. Not having to keep reaching across with my left hand to push buttons because I'm still fairly strongly left-handed in many things would make life simpler.
@@somebodyelse138 My dad was one of the few mid 80's catholic school taught people who was left handed. When my grandma found out they were tying to force him to write with his right hand she wen t and hand a little talk with them. She said, "God made my son left handed and you are going to leave him alone.
Been sewing for over 50 years and I agree with you on every point, especially your distinction between the "materials" and scissors and the other "tools".
My only dissenting opinion to yours is to spend on your pins. Cheap pins in the United States will not pierce your fabrics without damaging it. Old pins from a thrift shop are probably better quality than new cheap pins. :)
Sewing/Cutting table. Save! Many of the preface ones are expensive and don’t fit your area. Buy two sturdy saw horses at your hardware or home store. Look around for a place that sells closet doors either salvaged or new, unfinished. Sand and put several layers of polyurethane sealer on one side (ask the person in the paint or hardware store for the stuff that dries completely hard. Paint will work too as long as it won’t soften if it gets hot. On the Flip side lay down several layers of old drapes, hideous are fine as long as they give you the thickness of an ironing board cover. Secure the edges of the drapes and maybe an old sheet to the outside thickness of the door and flop it on the saw horses. Decide how tall you want this table, get some large cans, fill with sand or gravel to bring the flat surface of your dual cutting/ironing board to the height comfortable for you! There is your big cutting and ironing board! It can be taken down and folded away if needed. Lots of little changes like side tape handles on the sides to help maneuver. Cut door to the size that will fit. Use 3/4” plywood instead of door. Glue tape measures to the edges or mark them with a felt tip. P.S. this also makes a great extra dining table for those large family gatherings we are looking forward to having again!
I found a huge amount of fabric & sewing supplies the only thrift store in my town.
I wish we had thrift stores in the uk they look amazing. we just have tiny charity shops filled with plus size primark, some 70s kitchenware, a bunch of kids toys and not much else.
The cheapest pins can be really awful and even damage the fabric, but most good quality pins are not expensive. I use expensive pins only when working on very delicate projects, like entomology pins to drape and sew a silk satin biais cut dress : you have to pin a lot and make sure the pins dont mark the fabric
But remember she said for beginners. And I doubt a beginner would be making something so complex.
You can save on lighting. I bought my mom an Ottlite for her sewing that was crazy expensive. Yes it is high quality but 200$ is a bit much for a lamp. I realized that being able to position your light and the kind of light bulb you are using is what makes a difference. So I got a cheaper lamp but good bulbs
Well, I agree on everything else, but my biggest mistake was buying a cheap sewing machine when I first started. Its poor quality made everything difficult and I, being an absolute beginer, thought it was my fault. I almost gave up before even starting. Thank God, a late aunt of mine who was a keen and very experienced seamstress had me try her high quality machine. It was like a revelation.
My humble opinion is, the less experienced the person the more high quality the sewing machine they need.
A good Bernina is a friend for life.
I agree. A good tool will make any job easier. Doesn’t have to be top of the line but a better quality is going to make it easier to sew and the success one feels will be such an encouragement.
Absolutely. A simple reliable machine is what a beginner needs. I was spoiled with a fancy hand-me-down quilting machine and that was a game changer for me when I was a newbie.
My personal recommendation is get one of those old green Sears/ Kenmore sewing machines from the 50s-60s if they're common in your area. They sell really cheap and a trip to the sewing machine repair shop will get you a simple, foolproof machine that will take decades of use between repairs. I had a friend get a broken one for free and $150-200 in repairs later had her "new" favorite sewing machine.
I was visiting my family in CA and staying with one of my sisters. I was making masks and doing alterations while I was there. She is a beginner seamstress. I thought her machine, which is very, nice,(the name eludes me)had way too much power. When my great niece came to visit I was teaching her how to make masks. I normally would have let her sew the seams herself, but the machine had too much power and was a bit unpredictable. I like my Kenmore. This in coming from someone who is not a beginner seamstress.(47 yrs but who is counting..haha)
@@judyjennings-gunther4022
I taught the girl next door (10 yrs old) to sew. Of my two sewing machines, the one she felt most comfortable with was the one with the separate speed control. Makes sense! She’s also left handed so the fact that it has an automatic needle threader helped her with that aspect. The newer machines have fantastic lights as well.
I would recommend buying quilting pin as they are extra long, very sharp and hard to lose because they have a bright yellow head on them. I've had mine for over 30 years.
My other recommendation for the lefties amongst us is to buy proper pair of left handed scissors. Be aware that just because a pair of scissors can be used left handed does not mean they are left handed. It is not just the handle that is the issue it is also how the blades run across each other. Again I had my Wilkinson Sword scissors for over 30 years and they are still going strong.
I buy cheap thread and use it for the tests I make. At my local fabric store they had 50 cent thread spools and that’s what I use those for! For Americans you can go to Walmart and they’ll have precut fabric for dirt cheap! You can get 2 yards for 2$, 4 yards for 4$ and it’s amazing! I’m new to sewing! I still haven’t made a garment (after I finish these last to projects I’m making some pjs!!!) and I knew that there were 4 sweaters and cardigans that are on my list to sew so I got my “test” fabric from Walmart. TheirdBric isn’t good for much else since it’s pretty crappy. You could be putting together your project and you’ll sew half of it up and all of a sudden you have holes all over the dang place! Ok, well, that’s what happens when I sew with their quilting cotton. I’m not sure if the knits and jerseys do the same thing. I haven’t gotten that far! And, great video as always! ❤️
For several years, I was unable to sit longer than 5 minutes. I treated myself to a push button Janome. It gave me some of my sanity back. Now that I can sit again - it's still a dream.
Sewing machine needles - spent. Bad quality may damage the machine
I forgot about this one!!
I buy my needles through Amazon to get a large number of various size needles from top manufacturers. I prefer the German ones and hate. Running out to the one store near me that carries them!
Truth!
Hi Evelyn.Been watching you for a little while now and the 2 things I have got from you that were great ideas I didn't think of, was, notions from op shops and buying sheets from op shops to practice on. I'm on a roll now, cheers
I've switched from buying pdf patterns for kids to buying sewing pattern magazines because you get like 20 patterns for the price of one, already printed out, various styles and it's just faster to trace a different style of a hoodie than drafting it from scratch.
However, when it comes to sewing for myself, I prefer drafting the embellishments using a basic pattern that I know that fits me.
I went the opposite direction. I have a huge collection of sewing magazines and I always reach for my PDF’s
I like the idea of PDFs. I don't like cutting the patterns that come pre-printed. What if I want to make it in one of the other sizes? And just transferring the size I want without cutting it is kind of a pain. With a PDF I can always reprint it:)
@@sunnydoom2726 Interesting - to me reprinting is much more time consuming than tracing. I never cut up my printed pdf patterns either.
Besides -you cannot cut out a pattern from a magazine because the patterns lay on top of each other 🙂
Yes, I agree on all of these things. I have snaps & zippers and buttons from my mom and grandmother!
We can easily find second hand snaps, buttons and zipper that are cheap and good quality. And on the other hand, they can be expensive in sewing shops and the quality isn't even better
Right! And it's always so good to reuse these secondhand items where we can!
I completely agree with your list! I wasted so much time (and tears) when I was young sewing on cheap fabric with bad scissors, thread, and interfacing. Those are the items that make or break a project.
If you live near a Daiso store, that can be a good place to save on sewing supplies! I’ve gotten button packs, zippers, bag strap webbing, bobbins, snaps, and pins all for $1.50 each! They have other stuff there too like needles and thread, which is probably not the best quality but it’s served me just fine too. What they have really depends on the store, and even the day though, so it’s worth checking the craft sections of different stores every now and again
I have used leftover thinned out soup bars for marking my fabrics and has worked like a charm every time, it’s a great way to save on marking tools. And repurposing the small pieces of leftover soap bars
I never buy patterns full price, I always just go through the pattern bargain bin whenever I go to the fabric store (they are 3-6$ instead of 20-25$) and I usually have some really good luck with them! Also my grandmother gives me patterns from time to time and I like 60's fashion so it works for me :)
I just replaced my old machine with an entry level Janome, $200 off in a Black Friday sale 🎉🎉🎉 Bargain and love it 👍
My Bernina 1130 which I bought about 25 years ago has paid for itself many times over. Fabric in the USA is so expensive as to be out of reach for many of us. One has to watch the sales and buy the best one can afford. Thrift stores and estate sales can be a good resource if you can get there before the Ebay dealers show up. I can't agree about interfacing. Our grandmothers made do without fusibles and so do I. I can usually find some scrap of material in an appropriate weave and weight to use for a sew in interfacing when I need one. I do agree about good scissors. I bought shears and embroidery scissors which are imported from Italy and France and have never regretted the expense. Paying full price for a pattern nowadays is sheer insanity, IMHO. If you don't want to draft or alter your own, there are online services which will do it for you.
I just became a new subscriber to your channel. I'm looking forward to your videos and learning some real skills from you. I'd like to add a few more things to your topic on the sewing machines. First and foremost, I suggest to everybody to buy a vintage machine. No matter what these new machines can do. They're all made of cheap plastic. Even the higher-end models. And I absolutely refuse to spend hundreds, or worse, thousands of dollars on a sewing machine. Practically nobody needs a machine like that anyway. The best thing to do, is to ask family and friends if they might have a machine that they're not using. Or even if you have elderly neighbors, ask them if they have one that their not using. So you can get one for free {or almost free} and just do a little maintenance on it. Be creative and don't spend unnecessary money on a fancy sewing machine. Second, is to get a good sewing table or cabinet if your machine does not come with one. If you have to set up your machine every time you want to sew. It'll become a real hassle, and you won't sew. Keep your machine permanently set up and ready to go. Remember, out of sight, out of mind.
I have recently found your videos because I was looking on to complete a sewing task. I am self taught and still not very good and looking to improve so I can sew and mend for my family.
At first I wasn't sure about your videos because of the vintage sewing; however, the more I watched your videos, the more I became addicted and have been binge watching. I thank you for all of your work that goes into creating them. Not only have you inspired me, you have made me aware of some things I was doing wrong and helped me in other areas. Now with the sewing machine, I had an electric machine and I had a VERY difficult time controlling the speed. We had spent money on a modern day treadle machine and "retrofitted" an old singer treadle cabinet to fit it. I have SO MUCH MORE control and actually enjoy sewing now. That is an area that we needed to spend on.
Thank you again for your inspiring ideas and tutorials. My family has to listen to you as much as I do and now my 7 year old granddaughter is gettng involved. I never had anyone to teach me these skills and I am struggling along at 45. I am thankful that my granddaughter has this opportunity with me so she can learn as much with me.
Quite a lot of interesting discussion in the comments here about machines. There’s definitely a difference between a basic (but quality) machine and a cheap one. I deliberately chose a more basic model, as I really do not see myself using many of the fancy stitches. Of the 30 plus options and feet on mine, I generally only use 3 buttonhole styles, the options to back stitch / lock stitch, blind hemming, edge overcast, stretch stitch and zips. I’ve not yet used my rolled hem foot.
I got my first sewing machine for $20 and followed youtube tutorials & free patterns to get myself started and exploring different projects to practice techniques & how to use different materials
I totally agree, only spend money-absolutely need to for quality, then thrift find such as zippers etc. Totally agree with her!
I agree with you in the most things. But I must say that I enjoy my new sewing machine every day. Many greetings!
I learned to sew on my mother's very basic treadle machine. Now I have one with all the 'bells and whistles' and love, love it. I agree, though, that we don't need all these extras when learning to sew but they are wonderful fun. If you can afford it get the best.
I just got a sewing machine for Christmas and it took me a while to see anything my aunt put the fear of sewing machines in me from 11 years old. I took a step back and realized this was a lifestyle hobby I wanted no matter what. I already made a top and skirt out of old bedding sheets because I didn’t want to ruin nice material. It was after I finished my skirt that I found you and love your vids and can’t wait to learn from you.
We have something called the Goodwill Outlet, its a store where clothes and home goods are sold by the pound, whatever isn't sold is sent over seas. I go there and save vintage and modern clothes to resell and I find all sorts of things to help save on my sewing projects and its more eco friendly
Great video. I invested in a patterndrafting course and couture sewing online and books to teach me this skill. It has been so worth it as I've saved so much by making my own patterns. Not only in the patterns themselves but also in fabric & notions as garments now fit properly and I can alter previously made clothes to fit better too.
Right!! Saves you money all round!
In my experience in using many different brands of sewing machines, Juki is the most "thread" sensitive about the thread the Juki will like or not. The Singer machines, especially the older models are the most forgivable and you can put any kind, the cheapest of cheap, and oldest thread Singer will hum and be happy. I began sewing when I was probably about 6 or 7 years old, I was not allowed to use sewing machine, so I did hand sewing for all my dolls and dolls of all my friends and neighbors, and interesting that helped me so much in design, because I had no idea how to follow a pattern and none were available to me at the time, so I just made the little dolls clothes as I went along. I encourage any child interested in sewing early as they become interested.
Needles are a spend for me. The difference between a cheap and an expensive hand sewing needle is relatively small in dollars, but huge in terms of ease of use and finish achieved. Another way to save on quality fabric is search out designer dead stock and buy in bulk. My favourite source does a 20% discount on 10 metres or more... so I buy samples, test how it takes dye and then buy the winners in bulk.
I've always struggled with cheaper marking pens/crayons/chalk. They pull, don't transfer well, and break. Then I found the magical chalk mechanical pencils - no going back now! They're super precise and transfer clearly and cleanly. I'm not a voracious sewist so I'm not worried about using up the "lead" too fast, which may be considered expensive.
For light-colored cotton I've found regular mechanical pencil to work great too. As long as the marks are on the wrong side I never see them again; I think they wash out well. Naturally, this might not be great on fancier fabrics, but it'll work when you are just starting out.
This is a great idea for a video. As somebody on a fixed income it's good to have this advice so I can plan accordingly when I make purchases for projects. Also I made the mistake of trying to cut fabric using paper scissors once. I know as mistakes go it's much better than trying to cut paper with fabric scissors but even so it was so hard to cut the fabric I know it's a mistake I'll only make once ;)
😂😂 I bet that didn't go well!
@@Evelyn__Wood It felt AWFUL. I think the scissors themselves were silently screaming in pain. Luckily it was just a practice project so no harm done on having bad edges but yeah. *shudder*
Great advice as always and as you say you can never spend too much on education.thanks Evelyn 😊👋
I’d like to add a good quality silk sheer organza pressing cloth to the “spend” list. I bought a quarter metre of this fabric and hemmed it on my overlocker. It’s wonderful for protecting delicate or woollen fabrics during construction pressing. An expensive initial outlay but worth every penny.
Great video! I agree on all of them. I thought however you were gonna say spend on machine 😂 But you are right - a simple good quality machine second hand is the best beginner investment. I just know that so few people outside the sewing world know how expensive machines can be and a machine that is sewists are thinking is cheap (like $200 new) is in non-sewists eyes expensive and then they go and buy these super cheap “supermarket”
machines for like $30-$50 that seem to cause them so much headache.
I do not know if you have those super cheap machines in Australia but I have seen them a lot in Europe! So stay away from those but get a good quality brand used.
Yes!! Well, not quite that cheap in Australia, but the same machine for sure! You are right about the machine price and perspective. I wish I had thought to mention it in the video! They are garbage and would put me off sewing..... maybe that would make a good video??
@@Evelyn__Wood Yes! I think that would be a great video and also very educational for beginners, but also a great debate for us more experienced sewists.. 😉
Thanks for your quality content. Always look forward to new videos from your channel! Your positive vibe and practical sewing advice is just what new sewists need. I’m experienced but am always learning- thank you!
It sounds so odd, but I totally agree on the sewing machine. I have some expensive ones now that Good luck prying them from my cold dead hands, but when I started out, all I really needed was a sturdy machine that sewed forwards and backwards and had a zigzag. That was it, and I didn't upgrade until it died, and by then, I was up to being able to handle a few bells and a couple of whistles.
I have bought a few sewing books with patterns in them and they are so handy to get a set of basic patterns that you can build off. For example, I'm currently making a dress taking the bodice pattern from a jumpsuit and the sleeve pattern adapted from another pattern, particularly for the cuff and plaquet.
I totally agree with your recommendations! When I was a lot younger and a lot poorer I often used low quality fabric bc it was cheaper. And scissors!! Yes! What a difference it makes to have good scissors! I will admit as I’ve gotten older and more prosperous I indulge in buying tools and toys that are not essential but are just fun to have.
Whenever I'm looking for a new pattern to sew I check out the local library's collection of sewing magazines. Here in Finland we usually have Burda's. I loan the magazines that I want, trace the patterns and take pictures of the instructions. You can also search Burda's website (not the best IMO) for their patterns and it usually tells which magazine they were featured in.
I save on patterns. A good pattern that you know how it fits you can then be modified. I have a favourite vogue maxi-dress and I have modified the bodice and sleeves to create looks I wear. Thrifted patterns are also a nice save. Thread - cheap thread is chewed up by the machine and doesn't whole up when hand sewing.
Spend on fabric and shears. The lady at the store where I bought my dressmaking shears told me not to allow anyone to cut with the shears as each person has a different manner of holding the shears. It can dull your blades quicker
Totally agree. Using someone elses shears can make your hand ache as well. It is like allowing someone to use your fountain pen. One ruined nib!
I agree with you on all but one thing. Pins! I use different pins for different fabric. When I started out making my own sewing stash I had the pins that came in my husband's shirts. They were short some were rough and to short to use on thicker fabric. I learned quickly to use longer pins for thicker fabric. Throw them away when they get dull or bent or ruff.
I do loving making mock-ups with sheets. But they are vintage and pretty so I can wear the mock-up if I like the way it fits. My niece bought me a package of tiny little plastic spools with all types of different colored thread. I put the date on it and have it in my sewing room. Because I would never consider using the cheap thread. An old boyfriend bought me a really nice pair of scissors over 35 yrs ago because I was making him a jacket and my scissors were not working. I have one good pair then several pairs of "play" scissors. I was making a dress this summer from a vintage pattern. I did a mock up first. My mom x-stitched the yoke to match the fabric. I had tried all types of marking devices for the buttonholes. I needed a clear,crisp mark. I could not screw it up because mom spent more hours x-stitching the yoke than I did making the dress. So I actually bought some fabric markers at Joannes. The first time ever. It was so worth it.
I picked up 5 patterns today for US$1.99 each and 2 yards of plaid rayon for $5.10 a yard. I was giddy!
Funny you mention saving on sewing machines. I bought my 22 years ago (and didn't pay a lot then). Today, my husband asked if I wanted to buy a new one, I told him "No, mine is still good".
Most of my machines are 70's models, purchased 2nd hand, tip for buying new, watch the model you like , see how price ranges are moving. Finally got a serger 2 yrs back. Paid 500 txs in for a machine that some places were still charging 1100 for. Called Singer & asked if the serger was almost to end of run. Got told they were in the process of switching off Model run. What I paid would be lowest possible price
I buy expensive thread when on sale buy 3, get 2 free. I wait and wait for the sale. I use only KAI scissors but save money on upkeep because they stay sharp forever. I usually get a show discount at Sew Expo. So I do get nice things but budget and wait for deals. Last time I got $60 of free thread because I waited for the deal and had a huge restock list. I use cheap muslin and again, wait for a sale so it is below $2 a yard. Great video...Oh and I got a very nice home industrial Juki when I sewed my sons wedding suit as my discount machines I wasn't going to trust on 7 months of work! But again, got on sale, put on payments where if you paid it of in 12 months there was no interest so my fun money went there for a year and I can't tell you how worth it it is! Changed my pleasure in quilting and sewing because I can rely on my machine
Spend: A serger (over locker) isn’t necessary, but it sure makes life easier!! Mine is second hand and was not expensive.
Save: Also my local JoAnn’s regularly has 99 cent pattern sales, so I save on those!
Patterns often ask for more fabric than I need (I am petite). Adjusting the pattern for my height and actually measure how much I need, for me it is the biggest saving. AND than I am not left with huge fabrics leftovers that I feel I should find a way to use.
My biggest buy is interfacing. It is so hard to find locally so I splurged on 2 weights of interfacing and some fusible fleece Now I have almost everything I feel I need, other than a busk for my corset lol
I nabbed an all pink, Hello Kitty themed Janome sewing machine on clearance at a Target store about 10 years ago for 44.26 (it still has the price tag on the box)! I didn’t sew at the time, but couldn’t resist the idea of having a staple home product that was so cute and figured I’d need it some day. Wow! What a great purchase I’ve found out it was! It only has basic stitches, but it does all the jobs I need it to and makes the job so easy!
Now that I know how amazing a simple machine can be, I strongly recommend searching out the best deal for a quality, simple sewing machine!
Yard sales, garage sales, and estate sales are great places to find good quality materials.
I did spend on a sewing machine even though I'm just starting to see now. I decided to get the best machine I could afford as an investment. I'll grow with it hopefully and not need to replace it. I did buy a bolt of muslin to practice with though and wish I'd just gone for bedsheets at a thriftstore because it used up what was left of my budget and now I have to wait to get actual fabric for making the clothes I want. At least I can practice a lot while I'm waiting
Another very good video, Evelyn. I agree with you except for the pins and needles. It's worth spending a bit more for good pins. Cheap pins are not reliable at all. I have found cheap pins are different widths in a package, meaning some are too thin and bend easily and others are too thick and don't go through fabric well.
I purchase money moon thread, it's great quality and had no problems.
I complete agree with spending on interfacing Evelyn. After too many issues with puckering, lifting, glue showing on the right side of thinner fabrics in the form of little dots (ugh!!) I now only use sew in interfacing and only cotton as well. I feel that the amount of time and effort that I put in, as well as the longevity that I want for my garments, means that I don't want to use either polyester interfacing or glue in them. Further to that, I now have also switched from Gutermann thread which I had issues with with hot irons, to the wonderful Rasant which is a poly core but cotton outside. Its beautiful thread that doesn't break, kink, shred etc. and blends really well with fabric colour-wise so I am able to use one colour of thread on a variety of coloured fabrics - more economical that way. You can also buy a colour card so that you can colour match in the comfort of your own home. The bonus too is that it is cheaper than Gutermann - I buy my 1000m for under AUD$6.00!!
Great video, really enjoyed listening to that one! Thank you 🤗 and very glad I "only" paid £229 for my first sewing machine as I was set on spending more than that initially :) luckily really enjoyed my first in-person sewing class, I made a tote bag 😁
Thank you so much for your helpful content Evelyn as always Evelyn! I think a High quality, sturdy scissors are a must. Also, keep an eye on sales for fabrics.
I agree with spend on fabric, thread and shears or scissors. I also recommend a newer machine. I tried an older one and it was miserable for me. I love Janome. Great video, Evelyn!
I would complicate the question a bit by combining the save vs spend aspect with buying vintage vs buying new.
For tools like sewing machines and scissors, my advice would be to spend more on buying good quality high end vintage ones *and* having them serviced, instead of saving on new low or mid range ones.
Also for buttons, zippers, pins and needles, save both money and aggravation by thrifting for old unused ones of good quality rather than spending on new low quality ones!
I started learning to sewing in 2018, I was lucky that one of my friends who has been a seamstress for 20years was willing to teach me for free. I bought my first sewing machine from Aldi here in Australia, it was a Janome-rebrand machine. Only cost me$99 , it came with basic sewing tools like seam ripper, needles etc. It’s one of my best investments. I get my patterns from sales in spotlight or op shops etc. often time I like to get inspired from some of my fav brands, I go into stores and turn the garment inside out to see how they finish the seam, do the buttons etc to make the final garments professional finish rather than “home-made” look. I got my very first overlocker from Aldi a year later in 2019, I love my overlocker and sewing machine .
Definitely save on the sewing machine. Find a vintage machine. Mine is a 1972 Kenmore. All metal (except the knobs), strong, durable,versatile, easy to adjust, easy to service. $20 at a thrift shop, with manual and accessories. I had to clean and lubricate, replace the needle and go.
I have an old singer about the same age, more heavy duty than the new heavy duty but it only has 3 stitches. I got s newer basic machine for the extra 18 stitches, i found i only use 5 at the most. But for denim or any heavier fabric i use the older singer.
I agree. Less to go wrong with the all metal machines and they last forever if they are cared for.
Cheap interfacing has its place. I keep a certain amount on hand for practice garments. How the cheap stuff holds up on the practice determines how expensive I go for the final version.
Notions can be free when you upcycle old unwearable, unthriftable clothes, backpacks, and purses. They're also perfect for patch material when you mend clothes, which is a great way to build on hand sewing skills.
Also, using inexpensive, comfortable muslin for your toiles means you can turn it into a nice warm lining on your final clothes.
I agree with your assessments! Especially regarding scissors and shears. High quality scissors make for more accurate cutting, less fatigue, and they're really fun to sail through fabric!
Love your show, content and your perky personality! Thanks from the middle of California!!
I buy markers off Amazon in bulk. I like the Chaco type markers and they come in multipacks.
I would agree absolutely on spending on materials... having had some *interesting* dye jobs happen from cheaper ones. Those of you who have seen Paddington 2 will know where I'm coming from! (I now have a lovely purple towel, from pre-washing some suffragette purple cotton to make a ful petticoat with). Maybe some thrift shop/cheap cotton towels would be a useful addition as colour catchers when pre-washing dark fabrics? Match fibres... so a cotton towel for cotton materials etc. (as different material fibres require different dye chemistry).
I'm lucky that when my mother upgraded her sewing machine (maybe 1987), I acquired her previous one, the fabulous Elna Air Electronic (c. 1980). Good quality workhorse, with some bells and whistles (speed control, built-in buttonhole), but no fancy computerisation to go wrong. I recently spent (rather a lot) of money to have it overhauled, and was told by the sewing machine shop owner that it would have been around £500 when new in 1980!
I also stock up on clearance items from the fabric stores' remnant bins for experiments.
But I wouldn't skimp on buttons and zippers. Nothing brings down a beautiful garment more quickly than an eyesore plastic button that will quickly chip or split or a tacky zipper that will rapidly get stuck, slip open, or lose its pull tab. :-/
Many thanks, Evelyn, this is very useful. I can tell from my own experience that buying low quality thread is a disaster. I have ordered some from AliExpress and it worked so badly oh my god, even in the machine. With a serger it's even worse, it is very sensitive for the thread quality.
Thank you, excellent advice!!!
Thanks for tip about thrifted bedsheets - I heard you mention it in a previous video! I picked some up the other day and it has so helpful for this beginner!
Wonderful!! 😀
They never have bedsheets in the charity shops here in my part of UK :-(
@@lunasmum6869 It's sometimes hit or miss for me, unfortunately. I'm in the US and some thrift stores are definitely more likely to have them than others.
Hi Evelyn ! I think this is good advice for those who are, say, just starting out- and the odd exception...After all, we all have to begin somewhere !
Steel ruler. I like longer and fuller items and a steel yard/meter is stuck to the side of my board with magnets. For my very long ruler/straight edge I went to the home store wood department and bought an 8 foot piece of plain trim for a dollar, marked my measurements on it and keep it along the baseboard.
That's a really helpful video, thanks :)
I just finished my first hoodie and I love it sooo much 🤩
And as you said, I can reuse the pattern in so many ways if I just tweak it here and there.
Something I do a lot is pick up fabric at clothing swaps, give boxes or roadside giveaways. Obviously, its not just pieces of fabric but clothes, scarves or tabe cloths. Thrift shops aren't really a thing here in Germany. But what I find I can use in ao many ways, even if its just for practice.
I bought a Prym Parallel tracing wheel,it's so useful. Got it cheap too. I bought a box of 30 sewing feet, most I don't use, got these cheap too. Theres about 5 really useful ones that I use to sew slippy fabric and to gather, turn a tiny seam. I bought a cheap Singer years back, maybe I should invest in a heavy duty or is it an overlocker zigzag stich?
I have to hide my scissors, my bf ruined my last 2 cutting up plastic etc
Amazing tips - thanks so much! Where do people get their scissors sharpened though?
Google it 😀 there will be someone near you that does this!
Easy way to save... Crayola Washable Fine Tip Markers for kids...These mark any washable fabric and they have never failed to wash out even after ironing. I have used some expensive fabric markers that were a disaster and cost a fortune. The washable Crayola sell in a pack of 12 colours and cost less than one fabric marker!
Interesting - I will have to look into this. Thank you.
I agree with you!
I agree with you but scissors are the bane of my life! Why do manufacturers say "Suitable for left or right handed users!" when they haven't bothered to think about the way the blades are put together? For left handed people the blades need to be the opposite way than those for right handed users. The only way to get over this is to SPEND on really good quality scissors! I have bought many pairs of scissors over the years before I found why I was having problems where the blades weren't keeping together to cut. I sharpened them but the same problem. The pressure with left handed use pushes the blades apart whereas, if the blades are the other way, they don't. That was a revelation and now I have good left handed scissors. What I am really getting at here is that, if you are left handed, only buy true left handed scissors and (for all users) buy from the best makers. Money well spent. Sorry to ramble but it is a subject I feel very strongly about.
I will have to disagree on the zips. I have been put into compromising situations in clothes where i put in cheaper zips. I would rather spend a bit more on a zip than to be stuck in the toilet or a changing room with my zip refusing to come up (and that has happened so many times!😭).
Yes, I never harvested zips on my husbands trousers! They were always unuseable! He was so rough with them. I was always having to replace them.