Glass head pins are what I use. The heads don’t scratch my iron if I need to iron something while pinned. I will admit I’m a scissor addict, but I actually use them because I do much more than sewing and quilting. I do embroidering, beading, etc. I’m a tool addict as well, but I do my research first. Most of mine are functional (rotary cutters, seam ripper, bodkin, snag repair, telescoping magnet wand). I don’t even know how to sew my own clothes yet. Subscribed hoping I’ll figure it out. I’m a size 30/32 US.
Hi just a small tip if it's any help about the tracing paper you use when I do my patterns I use rolls of lining wall paper it's just plain paper I find it's ideal for doing my patterns when I make them hope this helps.
@historygradstu My best sewing machine was my old all-steel Brother. After 30-plus years, I decided I wanted an embroidery sewing machine, and I traded in the Brother, but all sewing machines are plastic now-a-days. Blah!!
I like glass-headed pins. They look like the plastic heads but don’t melt when touched by an iron. They are easier for me to grasp than the self-headed pins. Also, easier to see with my old eyes. 😊
That button hole spacer can be used to mark pleats, gathers on curtain tops, where to sew lines on quilts, and for graduated ombre markings for cutting out quilts pieces too. You don't need to get one but if you already have one you might as well utilize it fully. I no longer print out patterns - I got an inexpensive projector and attached it to my ceiling. LOVE using it! The only use 4-way stretch polyester in my sewing room is the cover for my dress dummy. Otherwise I hate it! I only use Swedish Tracing Paper for toile's or slopers that I know I'll use more than once - that makes it a good investment. The magnetic seam guide works fantastic on my vintage Singers...not so much on my modern machines (don't think there's enough metal to keep it in place). Duckbilled scissors really help with applique and trapunto quilting. The plastic headed pins you showed aren't great and I don't like them - they melt horribly when ironing and it's hard to get that plastic off your iron. I went to the flower headed quilting pins which can withstand a little bit of pressing and they're easier to grip for someone with rheumatoid arthritis. Chalk wheel pens are HORRID! As you said, the chalk line disappears quickly and it leaves chalk dust everywhere. Wha...? Can't live without my retractable tape measures. Glad you found something that works for you. Subscription boxes are a big no-no at my house. I'd rather spend my money and know exactly what I'm getting. I use beeswax all the time for my hand sewing - it does help with preventing tangles and making the thread easier to glide through fabric. Hate that stupid loop turner with the latch! My loop turning sticks and tubes work so much better. Gotta have my stash - I shop in it all the time. But if no stash works for you then go for it. :)
Finally someone who agrees with me about polyester. 😊 I dislike this fabric with a passion. I am all about sustainability and breathability. That is one of the reasons I choose to sew my own garments.
I'm a bit older than you guys, and I have despised 100% polyester since I was a kid. Back then, mostly little old ladies wore it and it came with a foam backing glued to it. Dreadful stuff. However, the cotton and polyester blends 9f the 70's and 80's were fabulous! A thousand times better than today's cotton. A 65/35 blend was perfect. The cloth would still breathe, wrinkle much less, reduced shrinkage, and remain colorfast. A shirt would look great for at least 3 to 4 years with regular wear. Today's fabrics are mostly manufactured to self destruct in the wash, mandating frequent replacing of clothing.
I'm not about sustainability or breathability, but my body is repellent to petroleum, and garment labels no matter how soft they are. I'm glad some manufacturers decided to stamp the size of the garment instead. ❤
Wow! You are so brutally honest about what is worth it and what isn't! So refreshing, especially in this day and age when so many claim they "couldn't live without *insert product here*"! I found myself nodding along to most of your points throughout the video. It's funny how easily we can manage without all of the stuff that's supposed to make sewing easier! 😂
I bought a Janome machine about 8 years ago and fell absolutely in love with it. After constantly fighting with machines and lusting over new machines online I finally found one that was the right machine for me. I came across a new one in box at a garage sale a year ago and snapped it up for 50 bucks just because I love my current machine so much I was happy to have a backup.
A coverstitch machine does more than one stitch. Besides the 2-needle and 3-needle stitching, it also does a chain stitch. The chain stitch can be used to fit garments because it's very easy to sew up the seams temporarily and then remove the stitching when you find your final fit. If you sew lots of knits and activewear, a CS is a very useful machine to have at your fingertips.
I agree. I have a Babylock Evolution with the overlock function and the coverstitch function in one machine. I sew on knits a lot and use both functions all the time. I also love the narrow 3 thread overlock for finishing seams on woven fabrics.
I have a 5 thread overlock serger and it is a total pain in the butt to change between 4 thread overlock and cover stitch. It requires changing the throat plate and rethreading the machine. I did one project with knit and decided I needed a dedicated machine that I could leave on cover stitch because changing back and forth was too much work and wasted too much time. I went on Craigslist and had a new to me cover stitch machine a few days later.
Great video! Thanks for the incentive to stop buying and "shop my own stash/declutter." Instead of labels, I mark the back of my garments with an embroidery stitch on my machine (it's a row of connecting hearts). I can only do this when there's a facing in the top or something like that. My friends like this personal touch. Appreciate you!
I'm still using beeswax that I inherited from my mom. There's plenty left for my kids. I'm 70. 🤣 I save shoulder pads that I've removed from thrifted items, but only the high quality ones. Before I throw away a worn out garment or bag, I remove the buttons, and sometimes the trims, zips, straps or hardware. Such fun watching this!
When shoulder pads were the style, everything was askew on me because I have square shoulders, so I took out all the shoulder pads from clothes I bought then they would fit perfectly. I still have them in a box just in case. They make useful pin cushions! I still have a bunch of hooks and eyes and snap fasteners in various sizes because we used to actually use them. I've sewn many of them onto clothes in my time. I also save buttons etc from old clothes too, we always had a button box and it's still useful. I'm 78, and we grew up reusing and being frugal with everything.
For me, my double needle is important! I don’t have a cover stitch or serger, and I prefer to sew with stretch jersey knits. The double needle makes the best looking, stretch hem I can do, without warping anything. I just wind an additional bobbin to use for the second needle.
Thank you for addressing your shaky hands. Medication left me with a new and frustrating intention tremor since last summer and I was afraid I would have to give up handwork. Thank you for being a great inspiration!
Sorry to hear this. It’s very debilitating isn’t it. I didn’t talk about it with anyone for so long because I was so ashamed of it (after a lifetime of being asked why do you shake) but it’s better for me if I address it head on. I hadn’t expected so many to connect with me over it so I’m glad my transparency has helped.
Oh how I agree, it’s taken me 50 years to realise that I am not being mean but we really don’t need to be persuaded to spend money on gadgets that our Grandmothers never needed to sew clothing for a whole family. My pattern weights are beautiful stones collected from the beach- they need to have a flat side - perfect. New subscriber, Sue xx
The metal accordion is a divider. I use it for figuring out spacing for pleates or placement/spacing for buttons. But it's a tool the draftsmen used back when everything was done by hand. Yes I have one too...somewhere...
I sew a lot of knits, and my coverstitch machine is the best investment I made in my sewing room. When my serger broke, I bought a combo machine, and I’m in awe of how professional my garments look now. I use it for so much more than just hemming. (Because of all those specialty feet I got with it!) It’s definitely not something I would recommend for most sewists though. I love this list and am so glad to have discovered your channel!
I had a combination CS /overlocker. It was so complicated to swap between the 2 functions that I sold it, bought 2 separate machines and still had change in my pocket. Much happier now
@@ginaburgess9759 you’re right! It can be so frustrating to switch everything to do cover stitch just to realize that you forgot to overlock a seam. Space is limited in my home, and I love using the safety stitch, so it works for me. (Honestly, if I had the space, I’d have all three. Combo, cover stitch and overlocker! But maybe that’s the kind of excess this video is warning me against. 😉)
I chuckled when you mentioned labels. I've spent my life cutting labels out of everything I wear and it baffles me that anyone would sew a label into a handmade item on purpose. (Diagnosed reasons for sensory issues, definitely explains a lot!).
That's because most labels are gross plastic ones sewn on to make them itchy. I use cotton for mine and sew them on flat so that they are seamless with the lining.
@@nadias6435 I can see why cotton labels would work for many people, but even that is too much of an irritation to me. My clothes a label-free zone, as a result. 🙂
As usual, I almost completely agree with you. Beeswax, though - I use it on the very end of the thread (in my machine or when hand-sewing) so it will go through the needle eye better. I use it all the time, but I actually will probably never buy it again, because one of those little circles will last an average sewist a lifetime.
Love my bees wax. I do a lot of hand sewing, particularly when rehemming off the rack trousers (I'm 4'11", trousers are ALWAYS too long) because I like the professional finish.
Completely agree with a lot of the items you mentioned. I believe I used your tutorial to make my tailor's ham a few years ago! Also made 2 seam sausages (different widths/lengths). Bought a $7 bag of hamster cage material and composted what I didn't use. Saved A TON of money making my own ironing accessories from cotton canvas I had already. So pleased with my matching set! Thank you!!!! I have several different types of loop turners that I'm happy I purchased. They save me a lot of time and frustration. I bought a pack of quilting remanent pieces (only once) that are coordinated prints, but I don't like the prints or colors. Going to use them to make bowl and plate cozies, pot holders, and pads to put under my plates/bowls/containers in the microwave to pull them out without burning my hands. If they get stained, no heartache dumping them in the trash. Boning: I use either zip ties or if I need wider plastic to go into a fabric bowl rim, I use plastic pipe strapping from the hardware store. Both of these are very inexpensive and very sturdy. Strips of plastic table place mats from a thrift store work well for this also. For pattern paper, I bought a roll (25 yds?) of medical table paper on Amazon. It's similar yet sturdier than the paper that comes in Big 4 pattern envelopes. If I need anything thicker, I bought a couple of rolls of banner paper at Dollar Tree (like a US $1- type of store). I have a fabric glue stick, but use washable school glue sticks instead that are really cheap right now (back-to-school sales) - you can get 2 large glue sticks for $1 right now. I gave away my spool & bobbin holders (hated them!), and use drinking straws that fit over my wall thread board pegs perfectly and keep my spools and bobbins together so I don't have to hunt for the matching bobbins in a tangled box of bobbins and thread. A box of 100 straws cost me $1 and I cut 2 lengths per straw. I'll probably die before using all of them. I have a few pairs of $1 scissors in my sewing room for cutting paper and plastic zips to size. I use $1 children's scissors in my sewing boxes for cutting hand-sewing thread - don't need anything more expensive for that task. LOVE your channel and thank you so much for really useful tips, tricks, tutorials and videos!!! 🥰 You are a rock star!
Wonder tape is great ! I use it to put zippers on, patch pockets and also to hold some knit hems in order to avoid the stretching while I sew them. You should give it a go !
I just found you and subscribed. I love how honest and practical you are. You already helped me not to bother getting weights. And I hate thimbles. You go girl!!!!
I use Wonder under tape to stabilize hems on knits before I stitch with a double needle. I agree with you about subscription boxes. For the same money I'd rather choose my own fabric. I just don't understand them. For pattern tracing, I bought a roll of doctor's examination table paper. It was super cheap and easy to see through to trace. The roll will last me a lifetime.
I do love my appliqué ( duck bill ) scissors. I use them all the time, especially in places where you want to trim closely without risk of cutting fabric by mistake in the lower layer. I love them!
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love 💚 , and peace all over the world . I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Gabriel Wood from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask?❤
As new to sewing I struggle to know what to buy. So thanks for this. I won't be dressmaking as I like quilting. But these videos have helped me to understand it's technique not magic that gets you through. I do like needle threaders though, but as mine is broken, my eyesight is not good so I'm struggling to thread needles. The best thing i got as a hint was to put a piece of white card behind it. But I need mine fixing as it really helps. So personally, I would buy one of those again.
LOVE your blouse/dress you finally used that awesome fabric. I could give a beginning sewing to a class of 12 and supply everything except the sewing machines. No one uses my machines but me!
😆 I should have looked and found your video BEFORE I bought my magnetic seam gauge, numerous presser feet, and the vintage serger I found last month. I'm now afraid to watch the rest of your list of what-not-to-buy! Thank you for sharing.
I use washers for pattern weights. I like them as you can use as many as you need to keep the pattern down and if you need to use your ruler to keep the seam line straight while you cut with the rotary cutter you can put the ruler right over the top of the weights to do your cut.
Adding buying patterns on sale. I have hundreds I haven’t sewn yet and wonder if I ever will, as trends change from year to year. I feel I’m only just starting to know and refine my aesthetic well, which has put the breaks on FOMO buying this year. Getting to know my fabric stash well, getting to know my pattern stash well, actually preparing pdf patterns instead of having them grow in my downloads, has helped put the breaks on further unnecessary purchases and saved me a lot of money. But also, too much choice in your collection can be overwhelming. Now I look at new patterns like “do I like this pattern better than these other patterns I haven’t sewn yet?” Or “can I hack this other pattern that I already have that is similar?”. I add the link to my growing wish list in my digital note taking app for that dopamine hit, and then forget about it😂 (although a few patterns recently have succeeded in a purchase recently, because they have met my very tough questions on aesthetic and need😅)
Oh my goodness- the patterns I bought at those 99 cent sales! I bought stuff that wasn’t my size or style thinking I’d adjust them. It’s so much better to just buy what you want when you want- and buy the fabric at the same time! Matching them up and storing them all is harder after the fact.
I know what you mean. I have accumulated a box full of commercial patterns, dozens of folders of PDF patterns, and I ended up turning off the emails from the pattern companies some weeks ago, as I really do not want any more patterns! I also have a bit of a fabric stash! I saw a comment a while ago where someone said they had more patterns and fabric than life expectancy, and I certainly feel a little that way!
OMG what a comprehensive list…just hearing all of this made feel so convicted because I have bought several of each of all the things you mentioned. I have been sewing for over 50 yrs (shocking to say that number!!!!) and have hoarded many of these things and then some. I have always donated many of the things I don’t use and will continue to do so. I am now facing of dealing with parents that have so much of everything that I get overwhelmed thinking - HOW THE HELL AM I GOING TO GET RID OF THIS STUFF (in my mind I was saying another word)!!!! My Mom has over 1,500 salt and pepper shakers from all over the world that she has collected 😮I don’t want that for my children and am on a mission of evolving in this area of life with my crafts and sewing. Great advice to declutter and use what you need…I would add: FINISH THE PROJECT!!! Thanks again for sharing💋💨
I love my duckbill scissors, I don't use them a heap but for applique work they're great and also for trimming bits off the carpet when the cat has got too enthusiastic with her claws. The shaping of them makes it easier to use than standard scissors.
I love my twin needles so much. I don't have cover machine for stretch hemming, and the twin needles help me a lot. It makes the hemming looks really nice.
Also, I love the idea of reselling the things you don't plan to use anymore. Someone else can (and will!) enjoy them and they stay out of the junk stream.
Hello! I am so happy to find your channel -- I love your honesty! I agree with your list, plus you had sooooo many items I didn’t even know they existed!! Anyway - I’m excited to now start viewing your other videos - I want to see what great ideas & tips I can learn from you. Thank you!! I’m happy to subscribe to your channel!!
Omg i have so much of these same items! 😂 i definitely was on a “buy all the things” collecting (as opposed to actual sewing) hobby! This was a good wake up! ❤
I just found you and thoroughly enjoyed your video. I have at least half of the things you described, and l use them, but you have definitely made me more aware and l will double-think before l make any future purchases. Loved your honestly, humour, and wisdom. Thank you ❤ Now subscribed.
Before I decluttered, I could have won the "Most Underutilized Sewing Gadgets" award. I do have scissors, marking pens and chalk, tracing paper, a sewing machine, and a serger. Other than that I am down to the bare minimum. Whew! Feels good! Love your content, Claire. As usual, another excellent video. Fun AND funny! Winning combo. You are a gem, indeed.
I finally got all my notions and tools into two plastic shoeboxes. It feels good knowing I can find things quickly. Who knew if you only owned 2 seam rippers you can find them more quickly than if you own 50 of them? 😅
Wonderful video! Finally someone is prepared to poo poo the STASH! I am 100% with you there. Money (which is, for most of us, a very precious resource) sitting on the shelf and not on your body. Lovely, too, to watch a UK based video. I am thoroughly enjoying learning from you. Luckily i haven't yet bought too many things i don't absolutely need but am wavering with the dressmakers dummy.
When I was unemployed I started shopping in my stash. Best thing that ever happened to me. I still have stash but I don’t buy it anymore just to stash. I also don’t keep scraps. People say “keep the scraps” ni did that for years but I never really used it. I don’t keep scraps anymore and it’s been fine.
@@Pippi-Longstocking that's a lovely way of using a stash. I am just worried that if I had one I would 'feel' it sitting there.....just waiting and saying 'no pressure but when might you be using us'. Then I would fall out of love with it. I have a drawer of scraps and am beginning to wonder if that drawer could be holding something more useful. I have borrowed a few craft books from the local library but I really want to keep my mind on dressmaking. I have a local charity/thrift shop that has a fabric bin. I think i will donate a bag of scraps to them especially as that keeps to penguinandpear's ethos. Thank you so much for your kind reply - we learn as much through these thoughtful messages as we do from the books and vlogs I find.
@@beckywhite9838 the one thing I do like to make with scraps are fabric pennants. Toni have a little template and cut them out and stash the pennant cut outs. They are a bit time consuming because I sew them properly (no just along the top) but they are fun. I like your donation idea.
The button holer my Mom used it to help notch fabric for her hand drawn patterns. She used it to put measured notches in. Then use it to check if her notches would mirror each other on the fabric.
I,m so,so glad your back with sewing video,s. Your telling things that are so real. Some times, a lot more than some times. I have seen sewing video,s that if I try it, it doesn’t.t work. I thought it was something that a did wrong. Even it Made me stop Sewing. I,m from “Holland, The Netherlands” Here we say: Your video,s are made with your feet on the ground. It mains with out fideling. You don’t,t make it nicer than the things are! Thank you for that.
I don't sew clothes but I do quilt. Some of the items you mentioned, many people try to get you to purchase the same thing for quilting. Thank you for this video. Great tips. God bless you.
Hi. I am so happy you are sewing again and posting on the channel. I am hoping you are posting and sewing for yourself with joy and not because you have to. During the pandemic my son showed my UA-cam to learn to sew and how to comment (I am 60 and not good with electronics). You were one of the first channels I found. I love the channel and wish you and your husband the best. Have a nice day and thank you for all the videos.
There are a handful of items on your list that I definitely use on the regular, but I mostly make bags and quilts. I watch your videos in hopes that I will get the courage to venture out with clothing soon. However, there are a lot of items in your video that I agree with you on - totally clutter. I recently decluttered my space (still a working progress, but greatly improved), and I love that your video gets you thinking about your items and the need (or lack of need) for them....100% on board with you about not buying for the STASH! It becomes where your stash owns you instead of you owning your stash ...I am so glad you have returned to sewing!
As much as I love buying gadgets for sewing and cooking, I agree with you about almost everything you mentioned. I have a ton of zippers that were my deceased MIL’s. She didn’t get through them and I won’t either.
I always make my own bias binding as I was finding it was never as wide as stated, a 1cm tape was only 8mm, so I use pillow cases or same fabric as my project and it’s better value too. Thank you for your honesty in your video 👍
I see a bunch of ladies using the "buttonhole" gadget to mark eyelet, loop, and hook-n-eye placements (corsets, dresses, blouses). I consider that a staple tool and will absolutely be getting one!
I don’t have a cover stitch machine but I actually use the majority of items you mentioned. It does depend on the type of garments you make and your skill level.
I agree on most of the stuff you honestly listed. The chalk marking gadget I use only when I do Sashiko which use dark navy blue fabrics which my heat erasable pen is not helpful ( and the white erasable pens never work properly 99.9 % of the time). The chalk is very useful for me and it does not seem to disappear easily. Thank you for doing a well thought of vídeo! New subscriber.
Agree about the stash. One of the biggest game changers was getting rid of my stash. I donated most of it and picked out about 6 cuts of fabric that i used. I also kept lining fabrics and used up those. I buy for each project now and I donate or compost scraps, I dont keep anything except cuts of interfacing I can use for smaller things like collars and facings. If I line pockets or want bias binding, I either use my white muslin fabric fabric or I buy a fat quarter off Etsy for a few bucks. I buy prefolded satin bias binding for armholes and necklines of sheath dresses.
I've been sewing off and on for over 60 years -- and I have accumulated some really strange objects! My only recent, really good purchase was Fiskar spring-loaded scissors to relieve strain on badly arthritic hands. I do have too many presser feet! Thank you for the video -- you did a fine job!
This was a great idea! I need to look through my stuff and see what I don't use. I always think I might use it in the future but I like the idea of getting rid of anything that only does one job and I can live without it. I'm moving soon so this has been a good motivator for me. Thanks
I think the long plastic gadget for the needle is to insert the needle in the shank of the machine? The little metal and wire item you showed is for threading the needle.
Great video, and I’m sure we’ll all agree we don’t need most of these items. I made the Moneta Dress too, and couldn’t sew with the clear elastic. I used knicker elastic, it’s nice and soft, and super stretchy.
Went on holiday couple years back and instead of buying dresses/fabric, U decided to use the 'fabric i liked at the time, but didnt need, but they look good' stash. I ended up making 6 dresses for my holiday, i didnt even buy thread. Saved a lot of money on buying outfits as some of the fabric was only £1 a yard cotton. Kerching. A lot of the things you mentioned I agree with. Have to admit I do have a sewing journal, its not fancy, just a notebook i wrote in which is very useful to me. I have a Brother sewing machine I bought about 5 years ago. But I also still have my first all singing and dancing Toyota machine which I bought around 1992 it still work (albeit temperamental), but its my back up machine and I will never part with it. Anoth we great videos from you 👌🏿
Haha. I’m the opposite. I learned to sew a zipper, and now I put them in everything (either in the front or side-I will never understand forcing people to contort themselves to zip up the back). I go out of my way to avoid sewing buttons and button holes.
Hi, I have just found you and what a lovely vlog. I can relate to some of the tools you have shown and I have bought things especially a coverstitch machine and never used it. I also tried the kams and I ruined the garments. So Thank you for this....
Hello friends - a fun one for you today! I hope you enjoy! Let me know what you wont buy in the future?! xx
Glass head pins are what I use. The heads don’t scratch my iron if I need to iron something while pinned. I will admit I’m a scissor addict, but I actually use them because I do much more than sewing and quilting. I do embroidering, beading, etc. I’m a tool addict as well, but I do my research first. Most of mine are functional (rotary cutters, seam ripper, bodkin, snag repair, telescoping magnet wand). I don’t even know how to sew my own clothes yet. Subscribed hoping I’ll figure it out. I’m a size 30/32 US.
Hi just a small tip if it's any help about the tracing paper you use when I do my patterns I use rolls of lining wall paper it's just plain paper I find it's ideal for doing my patterns when I make them hope this helps.
@historygradstu My best sewing machine was my old all-steel Brother. After 30-plus years, I decided I wanted an embroidery sewing machine, and I traded in the Brother, but all sewing machines are plastic now-a-days. Blah!!
I like glass-headed pins. They look like the plastic heads but don’t melt when touched by an iron. They are easier for me to grasp than the self-headed pins. Also, easier to see with my old eyes. 😊
That buttonhole spacer is brilliant for pleats as well
That button hole spacer can be used to mark pleats, gathers on curtain tops, where to sew lines on quilts, and for graduated ombre markings for cutting out quilts pieces too. You don't need to get one but if you already have one you might as well utilize it fully.
I no longer print out patterns - I got an inexpensive projector and attached it to my ceiling. LOVE using it!
The only use 4-way stretch polyester in my sewing room is the cover for my dress dummy. Otherwise I hate it!
I only use Swedish Tracing Paper for toile's or slopers that I know I'll use more than once - that makes it a good investment.
The magnetic seam guide works fantastic on my vintage Singers...not so much on my modern machines (don't think there's enough metal to keep it in place).
Duckbilled scissors really help with applique and trapunto quilting.
The plastic headed pins you showed aren't great and I don't like them - they melt horribly when ironing and it's hard to get that plastic off your iron. I went to the flower headed quilting pins which can withstand a little bit of pressing and they're easier to grip for someone with rheumatoid arthritis.
Chalk wheel pens are HORRID! As you said, the chalk line disappears quickly and it leaves chalk dust everywhere.
Wha...? Can't live without my retractable tape measures. Glad you found something that works for you.
Subscription boxes are a big no-no at my house. I'd rather spend my money and know exactly what I'm getting.
I use beeswax all the time for my hand sewing - it does help with preventing tangles and making the thread easier to glide through fabric.
Hate that stupid loop turner with the latch! My loop turning sticks and tubes work so much better.
Gotta have my stash - I shop in it all the time. But if no stash works for you then go for it. :)
I live the duck bill scissors for cutting around appliques on my embroidery machine.
Finally someone who agrees with me about polyester. 😊 I dislike this fabric with a passion. I am all about sustainability and breathability. That is one of the reasons I choose to sew my own garments.
I wish I could give you ten hearts for this! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ there you go! Couldn’t agree more I HATE poly with a passion!
I'm a bit older than you guys, and I have despised 100% polyester since I was a kid. Back then, mostly little old ladies wore it and it came with a foam backing glued to it. Dreadful stuff.
However, the cotton and polyester blends 9f the 70's and 80's were fabulous! A thousand times better than today's cotton. A 65/35 blend was perfect. The cloth would still breathe, wrinkle much less, reduced shrinkage, and remain colorfast. A shirt would look great for at least 3 to 4 years with regular wear.
Today's fabrics are mostly manufactured to self destruct in the wash, mandating frequent replacing of clothing.
I LOVE polyester
I'm not about sustainability or breathability, but my body is repellent to petroleum, and garment labels no matter how soft they are. I'm glad some manufacturers decided to stamp the size of the garment instead. ❤
Agree…I have to breathe and so does my body!
I love that "why on earth I bought that---". Right there with you.
Wow! You are so brutally honest about what is worth it and what isn't! So refreshing, especially in this day and age when so many claim they "couldn't live without *insert product here*"!
I found myself nodding along to most of your points throughout the video. It's funny how easily we can manage without all of the stuff that's supposed to make sewing easier! 😂
I bought a Janome machine about 8 years ago and fell absolutely in love with it. After constantly fighting with machines and lusting over new machines online I finally found one that was the right machine for me. I came across a new one in box at a garage sale a year ago and snapped it up for 50 bucks just because I love my current machine so much I was happy to have a backup.
A coverstitch machine does more than one stitch. Besides the 2-needle and 3-needle stitching, it also does a chain stitch. The chain stitch can be used to fit garments because it's very easy to sew up the seams temporarily and then remove the stitching when you find your final fit. If you sew lots of knits and activewear, a CS is a very useful machine to have at your fingertips.
I agree. I have a Babylock Evolution with the overlock function and the coverstitch function in one machine. I sew on knits a lot and use both functions all the time. I also love the narrow 3 thread overlock for finishing seams on woven fabrics.
I have a 5 thread overlock serger and it is a total pain in the butt to change between 4 thread overlock and cover stitch. It requires changing the throat plate and rethreading the machine. I did one project with knit and decided I needed a dedicated machine that I could leave on cover stitch because changing back and forth was too much work and wasted too much time. I went on Craigslist and had a new to me cover stitch machine a few days later.
I love using my cover stitch machine for temporary seams. It sure beats picking out basting stitches.
Great video! Thanks for the incentive to stop buying and "shop my own stash/declutter." Instead of labels, I mark the back of my garments with an embroidery stitch on my machine (it's a row of connecting hearts). I can only do this when there's a facing in the top or something like that. My friends like this personal touch. Appreciate you!
That sounds lovely. Usually I’ll joint the band in the channel so that tells me which is front and back ❤️
What a perfect idea!!
I bet that looks delightful. A very creative alternative to the label.
What a great idea! 😊
I'm still using beeswax that I inherited from my mom. There's plenty left for my kids. I'm 70. 🤣
I save shoulder pads that I've removed from thrifted items, but only the high quality ones. Before I throw away a worn out garment or bag, I remove the buttons, and sometimes the trims, zips, straps or hardware.
Such fun watching this!
When shoulder pads were the style, everything was askew on me because I have square shoulders, so I took out all the shoulder pads from clothes I bought then they would fit perfectly. I still have them in a box just in case. They make useful pin cushions! I still have a bunch of hooks and eyes and snap fasteners in various sizes because we used to actually use them. I've sewn many of them onto clothes in my time. I also save buttons etc from old clothes too, we always had a button box and it's still useful. I'm 78, and we grew up reusing and being frugal with everything.
For me, my double needle is important! I don’t have a cover stitch or serger, and I prefer to sew with stretch jersey knits. The double needle makes the best looking, stretch hem I can do, without warping anything. I just wind an additional bobbin to use for the second needle.
I buy glass head pins. I like the big colored head because they are easier to find when I drop them on the floor.
Thank you for addressing your shaky hands. Medication left me with a new and frustrating intention tremor since last summer and I was afraid I would have to give up handwork. Thank you for being a great inspiration!
Sorry to hear this. It’s very debilitating isn’t it. I didn’t talk about it with anyone for so long because I was so ashamed of it (after a lifetime of being asked why do you shake) but it’s better for me if I address it head on. I hadn’t expected so many to connect with me over it so I’m glad my transparency has helped.
Oh how I agree, it’s taken me 50 years to realise that I am not being mean but we really don’t need to be persuaded to spend money on gadgets that our Grandmothers never needed to sew clothing for a whole family. My pattern weights are beautiful stones collected from the beach- they need to have a flat side - perfect. New subscriber, Sue xx
ME TOO!!! My mom used it a lot. Mostly quilts, and even though the were on top, I couldn't stand the feel on my skin, like if I laid across my bed.
The same with quilting. Seldom do I purchase the latest ruler or doodad. It's all so unnecessary and look what our grannies did without it all!!
The metal accordion is a divider. I use it for figuring out spacing for pleates or placement/spacing for buttons. But it's a tool the draftsmen used back when everything was done by hand. Yes I have one too...somewhere...
I'm so glad you came back to UA-cam. I so much enjoy your videos--such great practical advice with spectacular humor!!
Hello, love your presentations , you are so funny and engaging, and real. Keep it up.
I sew a lot of knits, and my coverstitch machine is the best investment I made in my sewing room. When my serger broke, I bought a combo machine, and I’m in awe of how professional my garments look now. I use it for so much more than just hemming. (Because of all those specialty feet I got with it!) It’s definitely not something I would recommend for most sewists though.
I love this list and am so glad to have discovered your channel!
I just got one and I’m so excited!
Hi good to see you back, love the top you are wearing. I also have far too much stuff xx
Babylock cover stitch is the only one I could work with. the juki I had gave me issues
I had a combination CS /overlocker. It was so complicated to swap between the 2 functions that I sold it, bought 2 separate machines and still had change in my pocket. Much happier now
@@ginaburgess9759 you’re right! It can be so frustrating to switch everything to do cover stitch just to realize that you forgot to overlock a seam. Space is limited in my home, and I love using the safety stitch, so it works for me. (Honestly, if I had the space, I’d have all three. Combo, cover stitch and overlocker! But maybe that’s the kind of excess this video is warning me against. 😉)
I chuckled when you mentioned labels. I've spent my life cutting labels out of everything I wear and it baffles me that anyone would sew a label into a handmade item on purpose.
(Diagnosed reasons for sensory issues, definitely explains a lot!).
Yep, me too. Can't stand those scratchy labels. Snip them too.
That's because most labels are gross plastic ones sewn on to make them itchy. I use cotton for mine and sew them on flat so that they are seamless with the lining.
@@nadias6435 I can see why cotton labels would work for many people, but even that is too much of an irritation to me. My clothes a label-free zone, as a result. 🙂
This made me smile. I wear my socks and pyjama tops inside out because the seams annoy me. 🤪
@@annenewton2950 you make a lot of sense to me. 😀🎉😀
I appreciate you sharing this video. Thank you.
As usual, I almost completely agree with you. Beeswax, though - I use it on the very end of the thread (in my machine or when hand-sewing) so it will go through the needle eye better. I use it all the time, but I actually will probably never buy it again, because one of those little circles will last an average sewist a lifetime.
You can buy vegan wax.
Love my bees wax. I do a lot of hand sewing, particularly when rehemming off the rack trousers (I'm 4'11", trousers are ALWAYS too long) because I like the professional finish.
Completely agree with a lot of the items you mentioned. I believe I used your tutorial to make my tailor's ham a few years ago! Also made 2 seam sausages (different widths/lengths). Bought a $7 bag of hamster cage material and composted what I didn't use. Saved A TON of money making my own ironing accessories from cotton canvas I had already. So pleased with my matching set! Thank you!!!! I have several different types of loop turners that I'm happy I purchased. They save me a lot of time and frustration. I bought a pack of quilting remanent pieces (only once) that are coordinated prints, but I don't like the prints or colors. Going to use them to make bowl and plate cozies, pot holders, and pads to put under my plates/bowls/containers in the microwave to pull them out without burning my hands. If they get stained, no heartache dumping them in the trash. Boning: I use either zip ties or if I need wider plastic to go into a fabric bowl rim, I use plastic pipe strapping from the hardware store. Both of these are very inexpensive and very sturdy. Strips of plastic table place mats from a thrift store work well for this also. For pattern paper, I bought a roll (25 yds?) of medical table paper on Amazon. It's similar yet sturdier than the paper that comes in Big 4 pattern envelopes. If I need anything thicker, I bought a couple of rolls of banner paper at Dollar Tree (like a US $1- type of store). I have a fabric glue stick, but use washable school glue sticks instead that are really cheap right now (back-to-school sales) - you can get 2 large glue sticks for $1 right now. I gave away my spool & bobbin holders (hated them!), and use drinking straws that fit over my wall thread board pegs perfectly and keep my spools and bobbins together so I don't have to hunt for the matching bobbins in a tangled box of bobbins and thread. A box of 100 straws cost me $1 and I cut 2 lengths per straw. I'll probably die before using all of them. I have a few pairs of $1 scissors in my sewing room for cutting paper and plastic zips to size. I use $1 children's scissors in my sewing boxes for cutting hand-sewing thread - don't need anything more expensive for that task. LOVE your channel and thank you so much for really useful tips, tricks, tutorials and videos!!! 🥰 You are a rock star!
I’m watching this video thinking ‘yes’. I can relate to most of the notions. Time for a serious declutter. 😂💖
Love your top. I watched you make it and it looks lovely on you.
I bought clear kam snaps. I find them useful as they are not really visible when I want to snap a garment.
I also bought the duck scissors, they work great for lingerie sewing.
Wonder tape is great ! I use it to put zippers on, patch pockets and also to hold some knit hems in order to avoid the stretching while I sew them. You should give it a go !
I just found you and subscribed. I love how honest and practical you are. You already helped me not to bother getting weights. And I hate thimbles. You go girl!!!!
Absolutely agree and said with such lovely humour!
I use Wonder under tape to stabilize hems on knits before I stitch with a double needle. I agree with you about subscription boxes. For the same money I'd rather choose my own fabric. I just don't understand them. For pattern tracing, I bought a roll of doctor's examination table paper. It was super cheap and easy to see through to trace. The roll will last me a lifetime.
I do love my appliqué ( duck bill ) scissors. I use them all the time, especially in places where you want to trim closely without risk of cutting fabric by mistake in the lower layer. I love them!
I have lots of bobbins and love attaching them to the matching spool.
Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, love 💚 , and peace all over the world . I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust so as time goes on it will bring something great for us in the future, hope you don't mind? I'm Gabriel Wood from Brooklyn New York, where are you from if I may ask?❤
As new to sewing I struggle to know what to buy. So thanks for this. I won't be dressmaking as I like quilting. But these videos have helped me to understand it's technique not magic that gets you through. I do like needle threaders though, but as mine is broken, my eyesight is not good so I'm struggling to thread needles. The best thing i got as a hint was to put a piece of white card behind it. But I need mine fixing as it really helps. So personally, I would buy one of those again.
Hi, thank you for your videos, I’m trying to go through them.
LOVE your blouse/dress you finally used that awesome fabric. I could give a beginning sewing to a class of 12 and supply everything except the sewing machines. No one uses my machines but me!
I appreciate your knowledge sharing.
Oh my gosh!!!! Your exactly right about everything!!!!
😆 I should have looked and found your video BEFORE I bought my magnetic seam gauge, numerous presser feet, and the vintage serger I found last month. I'm now afraid to watch the rest of your list of what-not-to-buy! Thank you for sharing.
I wish I had this video years ago - what you share is so very true!!!!!!!!!!!! I have bought so many of these items
Another excellent video Claire. Thank you.
Thank you Pepprina
I just came across your video and am I ever glad I did!
I am going to make myself a pot of tea and binge watch.
Thank you from Canada, God bless😊
LIKE YR VIDEO. I love my cheap dress form. Has helped me make tailored garments.
I use washers for pattern weights. I like them as you can use as many as you need to keep the pattern down and if you need to use your ruler to keep the seam line straight while you cut with the rotary cutter you can put the ruler right over the top of the weights to do your cut.
Adding buying patterns on sale. I have hundreds I haven’t sewn yet and wonder if I ever will, as trends change from year to year. I feel I’m only just starting to know and refine my aesthetic well, which has put the breaks on FOMO buying this year. Getting to know my fabric stash well, getting to know my pattern stash well, actually preparing pdf patterns instead of having them grow in my downloads, has helped put the breaks on further unnecessary purchases and saved me a lot of money. But also, too much choice in your collection can be overwhelming. Now I look at new patterns like “do I like this pattern better than these other patterns I haven’t sewn yet?” Or “can I hack this other pattern that I already have that is similar?”. I add the link to my growing wish list in my digital note taking app for that dopamine hit, and then forget about it😂 (although a few patterns recently have succeeded in a purchase recently, because they have met my very tough questions on aesthetic and need😅)
Oh my goodness- the patterns I bought at those 99 cent sales! I bought stuff that wasn’t my size or style thinking I’d adjust them. It’s so much better to just buy what you want when you want- and buy the fabric at the same time! Matching them up and storing them all is harder after the fact.
I know what you mean. I have accumulated a box full of commercial patterns, dozens of folders of PDF patterns, and I ended up turning off the emails from the pattern companies some weeks ago, as I really do not want any more patterns! I also have a bit of a fabric stash! I saw a comment a while ago where someone said they had more patterns and fabric than life expectancy, and I certainly feel a little that way!
It's so good to see you talking about sewing again , I missed your videos very much. This was really enjoyable 😀
Love this video....I agree about polyester....
OMG what a comprehensive list…just hearing all of this made feel so convicted because I have bought several of each of all the things you mentioned. I have been sewing for over 50 yrs (shocking to say that number!!!!) and have hoarded many of these things and then some. I have always donated many of the things I don’t use and will continue to do so. I am now facing of dealing with parents that have so much of everything that I get overwhelmed thinking - HOW THE HELL AM I GOING TO GET RID OF THIS STUFF (in my mind I was saying another word)!!!! My Mom has over 1,500 salt and pepper shakers from all over the world that she has collected 😮I don’t want that for my children and am on a mission of evolving in this area of life with my crafts and sewing. Great advice to declutter and use what you need…I would add: FINISH THE PROJECT!!! Thanks again for sharing💋💨
I love my duckbill scissors, I don't use them a heap but for applique work they're great and also for trimming bits off the carpet when the cat has got too enthusiastic with her claws. The shaping of them makes it easier to use than standard scissors.
I love my twin needles so much. I don't have cover machine for stretch hemming, and the twin needles help me a lot. It makes the hemming looks really nice.
The distance gauge for buttons can also be used for any repeating distance that needs marked, pleats would be another good use for it
I love the labels its a wee message on clothes i make for my family
Also, I love the idea of reselling the things you don't plan to use anymore. Someone else can (and will!) enjoy them and they stay out of the junk stream.
Hello! I am so happy to find your channel -- I love your honesty! I agree with your list, plus you had sooooo many items I didn’t even know they existed!! Anyway - I’m excited to now start viewing your other videos - I want to see what great ideas & tips I can learn from you. Thank you!! I’m happy to subscribe to your channel!!
Omg i have so much of these same items! 😂 i definitely was on a “buy all the things” collecting (as opposed to actual sewing) hobby! This was a good wake up! ❤
Great video! I love the no stash philosophy too. It makes it way more exciting to start and finish new projects.
That’s a really good point!
Thank you for this video. Sound advice. Hi from Kingston, Jamaica
Yes! I have boxes of patterns SND boxes of fabric that I haven't used yet.
I really enjoyed this one! So glad you're getting back to doing sewing videos again! Sheri
I just found you and thoroughly enjoyed your video. I have at least half of the things you described, and l use them, but you have definitely made me more aware and l will double-think before l make any future purchases. Loved your honestly, humour, and wisdom. Thank you ❤ Now subscribed.
Amazing ideas thanks for sharing
Claire you have done yourself proud,I love your top,a very good choice of material and pattern,you look so happy and Happy,Well done.
Before I decluttered, I could have won the "Most Underutilized Sewing Gadgets" award. I do have scissors, marking pens and chalk, tracing paper, a sewing machine, and a serger. Other than that I am down to the bare minimum. Whew! Feels good! Love your content, Claire. As usual, another excellent video. Fun AND funny! Winning combo. You are a gem, indeed.
I finally got all my notions and tools into two plastic shoeboxes. It feels good knowing I can find things quickly. Who knew if you only owned 2 seam rippers you can find them more quickly than if you own 50 of them? 😅
Ha!! Too funny and so true! Less really is more.
I am a quilter and a seam guide is great for 1/4 inch seams, I also use washing tape too.
I have a 1/4 in foot for that although I don’t do quilting.
The top you are wearing is so pretty. Thanks for all the great tips! 💕
Another interesting video which just saved me a mint tks.
This so resonates with me but I hadn't even heard of the thread burner... won't be bothering with that!
Wonderful video! Finally someone is prepared to poo poo the STASH! I am 100% with you there. Money (which is, for most of us, a very precious resource) sitting on the shelf and not on your body. Lovely, too, to watch a UK based video. I am thoroughly enjoying learning from you. Luckily i haven't yet bought too many things i don't absolutely need but am wavering with the dressmakers dummy.
When I was unemployed I started shopping in my stash. Best thing that ever happened to me. I still have stash but I don’t buy it anymore just to stash. I also don’t keep scraps. People say “keep the scraps” ni did that for years but I never really used it. I don’t keep scraps anymore and it’s been fine.
@@Pippi-Longstocking that's a lovely way of using a stash. I am just worried that if I had one I would 'feel' it sitting there.....just waiting and saying 'no pressure but when might you be using us'. Then I would fall out of love with it. I have a drawer of scraps and am beginning to wonder if that drawer could be holding something more useful. I have borrowed a few craft books from the local library but I really want to keep my mind on dressmaking. I have a local charity/thrift shop that has a fabric bin. I think i will donate a bag of scraps to them especially as that keeps to penguinandpear's ethos. Thank you so much for your kind reply - we learn as much through these thoughtful messages as we do from the books and vlogs I find.
@@beckywhite9838 the one thing I do like to make with scraps are fabric pennants. Toni have a little template and cut them out and stash the pennant cut outs. They are a bit time consuming because I sew them properly (no just along the top) but they are fun. I like your donation idea.
great tips Thanks
The button holer my Mom used it to help notch fabric for her hand drawn patterns. She used it to put measured notches in. Then use it to check if her notches would mirror each other on the fabric.
I purchased a high quality seam ripper with a replaceable blade and OMG the best purchase I have ever made. So sharp. So good.
Absolutely agree with the polyester.
I,m so,so glad your back with sewing video,s. Your telling things that are so real. Some times, a lot more than some times. I have seen sewing video,s that if I try it, it doesn’t.t work. I thought it was something that a did wrong. Even it Made me stop Sewing. I,m from “Holland, The Netherlands” Here we say: Your video,s are made with your feet on the ground. It mains with out fideling. You don’t,t make it nicer than the things are!
Thank you for that.
I don't sew clothes but I do quilt. Some of the items you mentioned, many people try to get you to purchase the same thing for quilting. Thank you for this video. Great tips. God bless you.
Hi. I am so happy you are sewing again and posting on the channel. I am hoping you are posting and sewing for yourself with joy and not because you have to. During the pandemic my son showed my UA-cam to learn to sew and how to comment (I am 60 and not good with electronics). You were one of the first channels I found. I love the channel and wish you and your husband the best. Have a nice day and thank you for all the videos.
Thank you ❤️
There are a handful of items on your list that I definitely use on the regular, but I mostly make bags and quilts. I watch your videos in hopes that I will get the courage to venture out with clothing soon. However, there are a lot of items in your video that I agree with you on - totally clutter. I recently decluttered my space (still a working progress, but greatly improved), and I love that your video gets you thinking about your items and the need (or lack of need) for them....100% on board with you about not buying for the STASH! It becomes where your stash owns you instead of you owning your stash ...I am so glad you have returned to sewing!
As much as I love buying gadgets for sewing and cooking, I agree with you about almost everything you mentioned. I have a ton of zippers that were my deceased MIL’s. She didn’t get through them and I won’t either.
The duck billed scizzors are good for when you do a turned hem
Not with my tremors they’re not. I actually find normal scissors easier
I love the sewing + minimalism videos! And slow sewing as well
Very good video, thanks for sharing. From across the pond.
Kam Snaps I use all the time. I use them for my cat dresses.
I bought 2 “sheets” of 1 1/2 inch ceramic tiles for Pennies at ReStore and took off the net backing. Perfect pattern weights. Cheap.
Yes used fabric glue but only used it for gluing beads onto bridal veils… used bias binding many times but I bought the best not the cheap stuff
I always make my own bias binding as I was finding it was never as wide as stated, a 1cm tape was only 8mm, so I use pillow cases or same fabric as my project and it’s better value too. Thank you for your honesty in your video 👍
Thank you, enjoyed.
PS. I never unwind bobbins -> just wind overtop when in need 🙂
Do you? I never thought to do that lol
That tool can also be used for perfect pleat marking or for whenever any other sort of consistent spacing is desired.
You are such a wonderful tutor! Just beautiful! 😊
I see a bunch of ladies using the "buttonhole" gadget to mark eyelet, loop, and hook-n-eye placements (corsets, dresses, blouses). I consider that a staple tool and will absolutely be getting one!
Interesting. I’ve been sewing 10 years and have never needed it. I’ve used it a few times but only because I had it.
I don’t have a cover stitch machine but I actually use the majority of items you mentioned. It does depend on the type of garments you make and your skill level.
I agree on most of the stuff you honestly listed. The chalk marking gadget I use only when I do Sashiko which use dark navy blue fabrics which my heat erasable pen is not helpful ( and the white erasable pens never work properly 99.9 % of the time). The chalk is very useful for me and it does not seem to disappear easily.
Thank you for doing a well thought of vídeo! New subscriber.
Agree about the stash. One of the biggest game changers was getting rid of my stash. I donated most of it and picked out about 6 cuts of fabric that i used. I also kept lining fabrics and used up those. I buy for each project now and I donate or compost scraps, I dont keep anything except cuts of interfacing I can use for smaller things like collars and facings. If I line pockets or want bias binding, I either use my white muslin fabric fabric or I buy a fat quarter off Etsy for a few bucks. I buy prefolded satin bias binding for armholes and necklines of sheath dresses.
I've been sewing off and on for over 60 years -- and I have accumulated some really strange objects! My only recent, really good purchase was Fiskar spring-loaded scissors to relieve strain on badly arthritic hands. I do have too many presser feet! Thank you for the video -- you did a fine job!
This was a great idea! I need to look through my stuff and see what I don't use. I always think I might use it in the future but I like the idea of getting rid of anything that only does one job and I can live without it. I'm moving soon so this has been a good motivator for me. Thanks
I think the long plastic gadget for the needle is to insert the needle in the shank of the machine? The little metal and wire item you showed is for threading the needle.
What an interesting video, thank you so much for the tips. Yes please do a video on Interfacing. Remain blessed xxx
Oh, yes, I'd love to see an in depth video on interfacing!
Great video, and I’m sure we’ll all agree we don’t need most of these items. I made the Moneta Dress too, and couldn’t sew with the clear elastic. I used knicker elastic, it’s nice and soft, and super stretchy.
I have no idea why they suggested clear elastic seems like an odd choice to me.
Yes labels, sitting in a drawer in a box. Remnant packs, duck billed scissors and more. Definitely a fun and enjoyable video, thank you
Right! Why would I insert some scratchy thing I actually cut out of ready to wear?
Love the video been there done that i now really think about patterns and fabric as like you my taste has changed thanks for the video
Went on holiday couple years back and instead of buying dresses/fabric, U decided to use the 'fabric i liked at the time, but didnt need, but they look good' stash. I ended up making 6 dresses for my holiday, i didnt even buy thread. Saved a lot of money on buying outfits as some of the fabric was only £1 a yard cotton. Kerching. A lot of the things you mentioned I agree with. Have to admit I do have a sewing journal, its not fancy, just a notebook i wrote in which is very useful to me. I have a Brother sewing machine I bought about 5 years ago. But I also still have my first all singing and dancing Toyota machine which I bought around 1992 it still work (albeit temperamental), but its my back up machine and I will never part with it. Anoth we great videos from you 👌🏿
Haha. I’m the opposite. I learned to sew a zipper, and now I put them in everything (either in the front or side-I will never understand forcing people to contort themselves to zip up the back). I go out of my way to avoid sewing buttons and button holes.
I put my zips on the side seam. Much easier than the back seam
Hi, I have just found you and what a lovely vlog. I can relate to some of the tools you have shown and I have bought things especially a coverstitch machine and never used it. I also tried the kams and I ruined the garments. So Thank you for this....