Project Ziploc bags are my thing. I also try to cut out in batches and then create bags with everything I need for the project, thread, buttons etc as well as a checklist and a note to myself (what have I done so far, what's the seam allowance again and so on). If you have several of these bags you can always pick one and just go at it.
Frau Bach - love it! Yes, that is a great idea to prepare everything necessary for your project in advance, so that way if you have a bit of time available you can sit down and have a mini sewing session!
My mum hates printing, taping, copying patterns, and feels unsure about cutting out the fabric, so I do these things for a lot of her projects as well as mine. I also take apart the sewing when she makes a mistake. On the other hand, she often puts the finishing touches to my projects, like buttonholes, hems, or hand sewn bits like bias tape. Sometimes, she even puts most of the project together after I've cut the fabric out. We don't really plan it out like that, but we do a lot of our sewing together it kind of just happens that way :)
Abigael - you know they say "finish each other sentences", well you and your mom "you finish each other sewing projects"! That's so fun though, I wish my mom lived closer so that we can have such "sewing relationship like you described! Thank you for sharing this with us, made me smile when I read it!! Keep it up and happy crafting!
Not multitasking is definitely a great tip! Before I had my youngest I would try to sew and listen to UA-cam videos, but it sure slowed me down, plus I would make silly mistakes because I was distracted! 😁 lol. Thanks for the helpful list Alisa! I need to not try to work so fast because that also causes me to make silly mistakes I wouldn't have made otherwise. Sticking to TNT patterns is also a great tip. Nothing like whipping up an instant gratification project:)
Rikki, welcome to the club! I used to try to do 5 things at the same time while trying to sew... I quickly realized that for me it does not work that way, because sewing really requires a lot of attention! Whew, good to know that I am not the only one, when I was including the point about multitasking a quickly thought: "will people think that I just can't do two things at one?", which I can, just not with sewing, lol.
This is a wonderful and very beneficial tip. My husband has a touch of dementia and needs me a lot of time. When he naps, I can make better use of my time. 🥰 And I can accomplish more. My family gently scolded me about time for me. Kind of hurt me at the time; but in thinking about it, I need to agree with them. So I am trying to change my ways in order to enjoy life. 😊
Sewing sequencing works! I do my cutting and my sewing in different places, and recently, I had to take care of a sick cat, meaning I didn't want to spend time in my sewing room away from her. To keep busy over those few days, I did a lot of cutting where I could keep an eye on her, and now I have a whole lot of projects all ready to be sewn up, bit by bit, that I really look forward to see come together. Finishing my first pair of pants at the minute... Doing what suits my mood and level of energy is what works best for me, otherwise I just wait for that moment when I will be at the top of my game and that never happens.
Yes, this is why I tend to have UFO's. Living with chronic pain, you may not be able to concentrate on big intricate jobs one day, but can do simple kaftan seams etc. Yes definitely doing what suits your mood makes me a better sewer😊 and more successful with less mistakes.
Meherio, hello there! I am finally sitting down to answer the comments - I had a crazy week! I hope that your cat feel better! They are the best sewing buddies, when they don't eat the thread! I love how you prepare your projects and then identify what works for you at the moment, and starting with an easier project that leads into a more intricate one - is such a great tip! Thank you so much for your comment and see you here soon!
You look so cute in those dangly earrings! Thanks for the tips. I very much like to work on only one project at a time, and I don’t keep a stack of unfinished stuff. I also like to clean the sewing room directly after a project (especially vacuum) so that it will feel welcoming for the next garment!😄
Cleaning your sewing room is a big one - if I am in the middle of the project, I will leave it as is, so that I can get right back into it, but after I am done - clean up time! Oh, thanks Vivmom - earrings are handmade :) you see, I think we have two groups of people here, some like to batch sew, some like to work on one at a time - I think to each their own, you just have to try and see what works for you!
Umm, are you human? Cleaning after sewing......one project at a time....no UFO's....... Only kidding of course😊, wish I had the EXACT same discipline as you..... especially with the UFO's 😉
Thanks for all those great tips. I’m not juggling all the things that you are at my age with no kids and no full time work obligations. BUT, I can say when I’ve turned off every distraction, even music sometimes, any task I’m trying to complete, will move much more quickly. I do often have TV or YT videos playing in the background that don’t really require my full attention and that I can just see what they’re doing or something without having to concentrate, but even that will sometimes slow me down & that’s OK if I’m not in a rush, but I know I should just turn it off otherwise.👍
Sequencing is key for me. I am NOT fond of cutting out fabric, so I bulk do it. I then put my projects in ziplock bags with pattern, thread, interfacing and any notion needed. I also have a project bulletin board that I put a goal timeline on. I space out projects based on difficulty. I usually will do an easy fun knit then a more structured garment. This I find gives me fast makes that are satisfying and then slow makes that take more brain power and patience. It's a good plan for me. I also quilt, wool applique, home sew and part time teach. It's a balancing act but very rewarding and keeps me on my toes.
Lori, yes, great advice - I do have a mini chalkboard in my sewing space that I also use for project planning! Thank you so much for your comment - I am sure a lot of people will use this advice!
If you need to sew while listening to a podcast or audiobook but the machine noise is bothering you, you likely need earphones or headphones with better passive isolation (better seal). Here are a few options to look at. Etymotic and Westone make earphones which double as earplugs. The Etymotic kids model can be used by an adult, but if the tips aren't big enough, try small Shure olive tips, which have the same bore size. Etymotic relies on their products going deep into your ear canal, where they create a top-notch seal. If that's not comfortable for you, try Shure and Westone, as they create seal through wrapping over your outer ear. They both make stage monitoring earphones which must block out crowd noise so performers can hear themselves. Shure has more bass, while most Westone and Etymotic models tend towards a neutral sound (no frequencies being greatly emphasized). If you listen to podcasts and audiobooks, it doesn't matter. If you listen primarily to music while sewing, then do some research on sound signatures which suit your favorite genres. I have used Etymotic kids with Shure olive tips, as well as Shure earphones while sewing. I listened to Sherlock holmes while sewing last night and it really kept me in the zone. Sherlock was figuring out clues while I was figuring out how to sew a bag. Happy listening.
Dear sewing friends, what are your tips for a more productive sewing time and finding that sewing time in your life? Share below! 1st week of Me Made May in review - ua-cam.com/video/72cdhBZNMGY/v-deo.html
Thanks for the tips. As for cutting out more than two projects, leave me with not sewing one of them for ages and feeling guilty. It seems my brain works per project! But I do paste and cut patterns in sequence.
Isha, I hear you - everyone is different, what works for one might not work for others, but it is good that you know that this particular way does not work for you - otherwise you would end up with a lot of projects cut out and none sewn. Thank you for your thoughts and keep on sewing wonderful things!!!
Watched this one after watching your other video on productive sewing, haha! This was also great--as I begin my motherhood journey next year, I've wondered/worried if I will lose all "me" time. I know I'll lose a lot, but this was encouraging to know that I will eventually be able to figure it out!
Samantha, so glad you found this useful! I remember at first it was tough, especially having no sleep and my hormones after birth definitely played mind games with me, but I found that sometimes choosing creative/hobby time over sleep sometimes helped me more, as I was able to just sit down and create, let my emotions out and be with my own thoughts, that being said - SLEEP IS SO IMPORTANT! :) but I did find creative expression very important, especially when going through rougher patches in life in general. After the first month you will be able to take a deep breath and just start figuring else out. Just remember to ask for help from your family and friends, there is nothing wrong with asking for advice, help or smth else. Sometimes that's all we need to get back on track.
Hi Alisa. Thanks for sharing. Have a plan, organize, use TNT. Cutting all favorite patterns at one time. Happy to have found your channel. Happy sewing. Aloha
Joselina, aloha to you too! I am so happy that this video came in handy! And once you find your grove - you will tweak your own sewing routine, some things work for this group of people, some things don't - but if you don't try - you will never know! Happy experimenting and sew up a storm!
I've just found your channel, so glad I have. Fantastic tips, thanks so much for sharing. I batch cut too, but hadn't thought of batch cutting the same project in different fabrics, that's a great idea. My main problem is knowing what to sew, because i want to sew everything 😂😂😜 . Angela xx
Hey Angela! I am finally sitting down to answer all of the comments - crazy time this week! Yes, I had to fight the urge of wanting to sew everything, especially after browsing Instagram.... it is like going shopping when you are hungry - never works out too well. Happy sewing and thank you or your comments!
I agree, when i try to do several things at once, they ALL take longer. I can listen to aidiobooks if i am doing string quilts or routine quilt block cutting, but for anything else, off it goes.
Kimberly - yes! I am on the same page with you about it. A lot if times I will do last finishing touches to the project while watching a TV show, but that's about it. Thank you for your comment and happy sewing!
Yes, I hope so too! Once I stopped multitasking I also stopped making any mistakes and just started enjoying and appreciating my sewing time more! Oh, thanks, that's my watercolor painting! If you live in US - I will send it to you, if you want, otherwise it will just stay on that board forever, it was my practice piece! :)
I do the same thing, cut all my fabric and in doubles or in difference fabric if I want to make the same shirt but in different colors. I love your tutorials and you make it so easy and fun. Thanks for all that you do.
Great tips. My most successful sewing has been when I've had several patterns cut out at once. I cut the pattern and then decide which fabric I'm using, then I put it together in a clear plastic bag. I try to do at least 3 patterns like this at a time.
Heide, hello there and WELCOME :) I am so glad that these videos are useful and bringing you joy and inspiration! I am truly happy! Let me know if there is anything you would like to see on this channel! xxx Alisa
Functional Sewing Space/Room is a must! At our old house I had my own craft room and it was great. If it was messy (organized chaos) I could just shut the door. Our new house is a lot smaller and I have a corner so I wanted it to look cute....um it didn’t work out at all. The cute table I had was not functional for my needs! How do you keep your patterns and pieces organized when you cut them out all at the same time?
Tabitha, hello there! Sorry for the delayed answer, I had a crazy week - so, I cut apart a cardboard box and I use the wide and long cardboard panels to separate my cut out patterns and be able to stack them, so that they are not all over my sewing space. I am not sure if that makes sense? So I kind of sandwich my cut out patterns (fabric) between 2 cardboard sheets and stack them that way. Some sewists suggest to use Ziploc bags - which could be another great solution! And yes - functional sewing space is very important, if I had to choose between pretty and functional - 100 votes for functional!
Alisa don’t be sorry, I understand Life happens. Thank you ! I’m just glad that you take the time to respond. I love your videos and I hope all is well.
Loved your video. Lots of great suggestions for productive sewing. I agree that watching TV or listening to a podcast can be distracting as they require your undivided attention. I do however, always listen to music when I sew but I don't find it distracting...more like soothing background music that becomes 'white noise' as I concentrate on my sewing project. I'm going to have to give some thought to your suggestion about sewing sequencing. I'm a beginner at sewing and when I transfer my markings to my pattern pieces, I'm finding that if I don't construct the garment fairly soon after that, all my pattern markings disappear...which is very frustrating. As I become more experienced with different ways to transfer pattern markings so that they don't quickly disappear, I think sewing sequencing will become a very effective option for me.
Hello there! When you are just starting - sometimes it makes more sense to construct the garment right away while your memory is still fresh with all the pattern information and tips and tricks - I totally get it, and probably taking one project at a time before you find your strength is a good suggestion, too! You are totally right! So glad that you mentioned that, because when I talk about sewing I automatically think of my own experiences of the moment, and sometimes forget how it was when we were just getting started! Happy sewing, hope to see you here again and thank you for your comment!
I'm just getting into garment sewing-and ran into the same problem (markings disappearing)--to the point where I don't even know what's what! Very frustrating. After just seeing this, I think I can tile maybe a couple of patterns at the same time, cut them out, BUT do the marking AND sewing at the same time (or at least start it while the markings are fresh). Thanks for sharing! :-)
Jenni- hello there!!! Early 90's - a lot of things have changed at Starbucks since then. I miss working at Sbux, but in the small town where we moved - we don't have any opportunity at Sbux. Great to see fellow green aprons here :)
Ahhhh yes, however, make certain you've tested your original pattern FIRST before doing step #2 Sewing Sequencing. I have done the pattern cutting AND fabric cutting BEFORE testing the garment for the first time and that did NOT go well as I'm sure you can imagine. Now I know better and do a test sew first before proceeding. :-)
Believe it or not ,when i cut the fabric to make something, before i sew it ,i plan all the work in my mind late at the night when i go for sleep. Like i count sheep.
Thought I was the only one who pinned, cut, and sewed like other count sheep. I have so many UFOS in my dream world seems I always fall asleep before I finish.
I definitely do "sequence sewing" (you would've made a good manager Alisa😊...I was a Maccas gal myself) it may seem annoying at first to swap threads constantly but trust me it works. For example, I have 4 tops- quite involved- I made the first one, it suited me.....so made three more in very different colours etc. Cut out patterns etc at the same time etc, but most importantly.....sewed all at the same time too. Pin as many seams or darts etc as possible on each item-everytime with each turn. So use thread number one on sewing machine for top one, then swap to thread colour two and sew same seams on top two, switch to thread colour number three and repeat. The first few times I sat there and swapped out my thread colour and bobbin- ......after only a couple of seams- ......to know I was only going to switch back in a minute after more pinning!!!!......I thought, this is going to drive me bloody bananas.....but after a couple of swaps I thought this is actually going to be easier better and faster! It's probably even easier on newer machines where you can use different materials! I have a very much loved (though wouldn't say no to winning lottery and buying a nice big new Brother sewing machine) Toyota Quilt Master 13yrs? old machine. So this only really works for me with only same-same fabrics and thread etc, as I can't adjust settings back and forth for different materials as you can with new machines with the press of a button. And also with many seams, if you sew properly, you can actually go on sewing your next different colour material- with the wrong thread colour from the previous one, so as to not have to keep swapping threads. it may not be a vital part or seam that's seen at the end etc and won't stand out coz you've used different colour thread to material!😄 happy sewing gals, Moan!
Simone - hello there! Great to see more food service people over here! Yay! So, I was actually debating on to include this or not, because I thought people will think I ma crazy, but I am sooooo one the same page with you about bobbin thread, pinning AND getting away with using the "wrong" color of thread for your project. I do just like you! The only thing, I will usually use the right color thread to sew the seam, but when I serge, I usually change just one needle thread, the rest is either white/black/beige. Unless I work with chiffon and you can see everything through! He he, so great that there are some like minded people out there!!! Thank you for your awesome comment - sew up a storm and see you here soon!
Alisa Shay - Thoughtful Creativity yes! I have many black pants etc, that have red overlocker on the inside so I could easily see where the hell my sewing is, versus black thread and especially where my mistakes end up 😉! Keep videoing, your a natural in front of the camera 😊
My issue is that I love reading, sewing and watching UA-cam videos and there is just so much leisure time. Thus, it takes me ages to make each garment.
I hear you! I loved multitasking while sewing until I realized that. But if that brings you joy- no reason to stop. Be I know if the project takes me so much longer to complete then it should have, I can get frustrated. Thank you for your comment! Happy sewing!
I store my patterns by, taking out the tissue paper or paper and put it into A4 clear sleeve, number the top right corner and store in number order with ALL my other patterns. In another box I have all the pattern covers with the instructions left inside (to glance at them immediately if needed) so I can go through the box and see all my patterns at once, to see the difference between them all. And you always forget you had one or two of them! In the pattern covers box they are separated into dresses, pants, mixed.... etc etc etc! Hope that helps you for ideas
Tanya, great question - I am actually working today on a video about that. Somewhat similar to Simone's system, the only thing - I store pattern instructions electronically, on my laptop. Thank you for a great question and happy sewing!
Angela, I totally get it! It is not for everyone, some people get joy of completion of the project, some enjoyy the process, some both. Would you have any tips on how to not to take all the fun out of it? Please share if you do! Thank you Angela! :)
Anne, that a top and it is my personal pattern that I have been working on for some time - it will be ready to be released sometime! Keep an eye on this channel - lots of fun sewing stuff coming up! :)
Project Ziploc bags are my thing. I also try to cut out in batches and then create bags with everything I need for the project, thread, buttons etc as well as a checklist and a note to myself (what have I done so far, what's the seam allowance again and so on). If you have several of these bags you can always pick one and just go at it.
Frau Bach - love it! Yes, that is a great idea to prepare everything necessary for your project in advance, so that way if you have a bit of time available you can sit down and have a mini sewing session!
That's very organized and a good idea!
My mum hates printing, taping, copying patterns, and feels unsure about cutting out the fabric, so I do these things for a lot of her projects as well as mine. I also take apart the sewing when she makes a mistake. On the other hand, she often puts the finishing touches to my projects, like buttonholes, hems, or hand sewn bits like bias tape. Sometimes, she even puts most of the project together after I've cut the fabric out. We don't really plan it out like that, but we do a lot of our sewing together it kind of just happens that way :)
Abigael - you know they say "finish each other sentences", well you and your mom "you finish each other sewing projects"! That's so fun though, I wish my mom lived closer so that we can have such "sewing relationship like you described! Thank you for sharing this with us, made me smile when I read it!! Keep it up and happy crafting!
This is what I call quality time spent together!! Embrace the time you spend together... I wish I could do it with both my mom and my daughter.
Such good, wise, and timeless advice. Thank you so much.
The multitasking tip is really helpful.
Not multitasking is definitely a great tip! Before I had my youngest I would try to sew and listen to UA-cam videos, but it sure slowed me down, plus I would make silly mistakes because I was distracted! 😁 lol. Thanks for the helpful list Alisa! I need to not try to work so fast because that also causes me to make silly mistakes I wouldn't have made otherwise. Sticking to TNT patterns is also a great tip. Nothing like whipping up an instant gratification project:)
Rikki, welcome to the club! I used to try to do 5 things at the same time while trying to sew... I quickly realized that for me it does not work that way, because sewing really requires a lot of attention! Whew, good to know that I am not the only one, when I was including the point about multitasking a quickly thought: "will people think that I just can't do two things at one?", which I can, just not with sewing, lol.
This is a wonderful and very beneficial
tip. My husband has a touch of dementia and needs me a lot of time. When he naps, I can make better use of my time. 🥰 And I can accomplish more. My family gently scolded me about time for me. Kind of hurt me at the time; but in thinking about it, I need to agree with them. So I am trying to change my ways in order to enjoy life. 😊
Sewing sequencing works! I do my cutting and my sewing in different places, and recently, I had to take care of a sick cat, meaning I didn't want to spend time in my sewing room away from her. To keep busy over those few days, I did a lot of cutting where I could keep an eye on her, and now I have a whole lot of projects all ready to be sewn up, bit by bit, that I really look forward to see come together. Finishing my first pair of pants at the minute... Doing what suits my mood and level of energy is what works best for me, otherwise I just wait for that moment when I will be at the top of my game and that never happens.
Yes, this is why I tend to have UFO's. Living with chronic pain, you may not be able to concentrate on big intricate jobs one day, but can do simple kaftan seams etc. Yes definitely doing what suits your mood makes me a better sewer😊 and more successful with less mistakes.
Meherio, hello there!
I am finally sitting down to answer the comments - I had a crazy week! I hope that your cat feel better! They are the best sewing buddies, when they don't eat the thread! I love how you prepare your projects and then identify what works for you at the moment, and starting with an easier project that leads into a more intricate one - is such a great tip! Thank you so much for your comment and see you here soon!
Thank you so much for asking! Yes, she is much better. I suspect she enjoyed all the attention too :)
@@agathemeherio2258So glad to hear that! He he, I am sure she did! I love my cat, and she for sure lets me know when she needs a little cuddle! :)
“Working in the blocks” yes, I need to learn to sequence my sewing process! Thanks for sharing!
You look so cute in those dangly earrings! Thanks for the tips. I very much like to work on only one project at a time, and I don’t keep a stack of unfinished stuff. I also like to clean the sewing room directly after a project (especially vacuum) so that it will feel welcoming for the next garment!😄
Cleaning your sewing room is a big one - if I am in the middle of the project, I will leave it as is, so that I can get right back into it, but after I am done - clean up time! Oh, thanks Vivmom - earrings are handmade :) you see, I think we have two groups of people here, some like to batch sew, some like to work on one at a time - I think to each their own, you just have to try and see what works for you!
Umm, are you human? Cleaning after sewing......one project at a time....no UFO's.......
Only kidding of course😊, wish I had the EXACT same discipline as you..... especially with the UFO's 😉
Aww thanks Simone! I’m really not that disciplined, it’s just that I make a terrific mess with every project!!🤪
Vivmom Sews 😄😄😄 I can hear my mother screaming from 20kms away..."yep, that's my daughter in the kitchen!!!"
Thanks for all those great tips. I’m not juggling all the things that you are at my age with no kids and no full time work obligations. BUT, I can say when I’ve turned off every distraction, even music sometimes, any task I’m trying to complete, will move much more quickly. I do often have TV or YT videos playing in the background that don’t really require my full attention and that I can just see what they’re doing or something without having to concentrate, but even that will sometimes slow me down & that’s OK if I’m not in a rush, but I know I should just turn it off otherwise.👍
Sequencing is key for me. I am NOT fond of cutting out fabric, so I bulk do it. I then put my projects in ziplock bags with pattern, thread, interfacing and any notion needed. I also have a project bulletin board that I put a goal timeline on. I space out projects based on difficulty. I usually will do an easy fun knit then a more structured garment. This I find gives me fast makes that are satisfying and then slow makes that take more brain power and patience. It's a good plan for me. I also quilt, wool applique, home sew and part time teach. It's a balancing act but very rewarding and keeps me on my toes.
Lori, yes, great advice - I do have a mini chalkboard in my sewing space that I also use for project planning! Thank you so much for your comment - I am sure a lot of people will use this advice!
Good idea adding the thread and whatever notions you need to the bags.
If you need to sew while listening to a podcast or audiobook but the machine noise is bothering you, you likely need earphones or headphones with better passive isolation (better seal). Here are a few options to look at. Etymotic and Westone make earphones which double as earplugs. The Etymotic kids model can be used by an adult, but if the tips aren't big enough, try small Shure olive tips, which have the same bore size. Etymotic relies on their products going deep into your ear canal, where they create a top-notch seal. If that's not comfortable for you, try Shure and Westone, as they create seal through wrapping over your outer ear. They both make stage monitoring earphones which must block out crowd noise so performers can hear themselves. Shure has more bass, while most Westone and Etymotic models tend towards a neutral sound (no frequencies being greatly emphasized). If you listen to podcasts and audiobooks, it doesn't matter. If you listen primarily to music while sewing, then do some research on sound signatures which suit your favorite genres. I have used Etymotic kids with Shure olive tips, as well as Shure earphones while sewing. I listened to Sherlock holmes while sewing last night and it really kept me in the zone. Sherlock was figuring out clues while I was figuring out how to sew a bag. Happy listening.
Good thinking, thank you for your suggestions! Loved the last analogy- smart! :)
@@ThoughtfulCreativity Thank you!
Dear sewing friends, what are your tips for a more productive sewing time and finding that sewing time in your life? Share below!
1st week of Me Made May in review - ua-cam.com/video/72cdhBZNMGY/v-deo.html
Such good advice! I do like to cut in multiples... Have a blessed day!!
Thanks for the tips. As for cutting out more than two projects, leave me with not sewing one of them for ages and feeling guilty. It seems my brain works per project! But I do paste and cut patterns in sequence.
Isha, I hear you - everyone is different, what works for one might not work for others, but it is good that you know that this particular way does not work for you - otherwise you would end up with a lot of projects cut out and none sewn. Thank you for your thoughts and keep on sewing wonderful things!!!
Watched this one after watching your other video on productive sewing, haha! This was also great--as I begin my motherhood journey next year, I've wondered/worried if I will lose all "me" time. I know I'll lose a lot, but this was encouraging to know that I will eventually be able to figure it out!
Samantha, so glad you found this useful! I remember at first it was tough, especially having no sleep and my hormones after birth definitely played mind games with me, but I found that sometimes choosing creative/hobby time over sleep sometimes helped me more, as I was able to just sit down and create, let my emotions out and be with my own thoughts, that being said - SLEEP IS SO IMPORTANT! :) but I did find creative expression very important, especially when going through rougher patches in life in general. After the first month you will be able to take a deep breath and just start figuring else out. Just remember to ask for help from your family and friends, there is nothing wrong with asking for advice, help or smth else. Sometimes that's all we need to get back on track.
I like the idea of sequencing! I will try that! Thanks!
Absolutely! I hope it helps you with finding more time for sewing! I am so happy this idea is useful!
Hi Alisa. Thanks for sharing. Have a plan, organize, use TNT. Cutting all favorite patterns at one time. Happy to have found your channel. Happy sewing. Aloha
Joselina, aloha to you too! I am so happy that this video came in handy! And once you find your grove - you will tweak your own sewing routine, some things work for this group of people, some things don't - but if you don't try - you will never know! Happy experimenting and sew up a storm!
Love your enthusiasm 🤗🤗
I've just found your channel, so glad I have. Fantastic tips, thanks so much for sharing. I batch cut too, but hadn't thought of batch cutting the same project in different fabrics, that's a great idea. My main problem is knowing what to sew, because i want to sew everything 😂😂😜 . Angela xx
Hey Angela! I am finally sitting down to answer all of the comments - crazy time this week! Yes, I had to fight the urge of wanting to sew everything, especially after browsing Instagram.... it is like going shopping when you are hungry - never works out too well. Happy sewing and thank you or your comments!
I agree, when i try to do several things at once, they ALL take longer. I can listen to aidiobooks if i am doing string quilts or routine quilt block cutting, but for anything else, off it goes.
Kimberly - yes! I am on the same page with you about it. A lot if times I will do last finishing touches to the project while watching a TV show, but that's about it. Thank you for your comment and happy sewing!
I really wish I can manage time to sew.. I hope these tips help. specially tip 5.lol .. thanks alot
Btw I love the pic of plant pot behind u.
Yes, I hope so too! Once I stopped multitasking I also stopped making any mistakes and just started enjoying and appreciating my sewing time more! Oh, thanks, that's my watercolor painting! If you live in US - I will send it to you, if you want, otherwise it will just stay on that board forever, it was my practice piece! :)
I do the same thing, cut all my fabric and in doubles or in difference fabric if I want to make the same shirt but in different colors. I love your tutorials and you make it so easy and fun. Thanks for all that you do.
Great tips. My most successful sewing has been when I've had several patterns cut out at once. I cut the pattern and then decide which fabric I'm using, then I put it together in a clear plastic bag. I try to do at least 3 patterns like this at a time.
You are so inspiring! Thank you!!!
Heide, hello there and WELCOME :) I am so glad that these videos are useful and bringing you joy and inspiration! I am truly happy! Let me know if there is anything you would like to see on this channel! xxx Alisa
Functional Sewing Space/Room is a must! At our old house I had my own craft room and it was great. If it was messy (organized chaos) I could just shut the door. Our new house is a lot smaller and I have a corner so I wanted it to look cute....um it didn’t work out at all. The cute table I had was not functional for my needs!
How do you keep your patterns and pieces organized when you cut them out all at the same time?
Tabitha, hello there! Sorry for the delayed answer, I had a crazy week - so, I cut apart a cardboard box and I use the wide and long cardboard panels to separate my cut out patterns and be able to stack them, so that they are not all over my sewing space. I am not sure if that makes sense? So I kind of sandwich my cut out patterns (fabric) between 2 cardboard sheets and stack them that way. Some sewists suggest to use Ziploc bags - which could be another great solution! And yes - functional sewing space is very important, if I had to choose between pretty and functional - 100 votes for functional!
Alisa don’t be sorry, I understand Life happens. Thank you ! I’m just glad that you take the time to respond. I love your videos and I hope all is well.
really helps good ideas!
Lovely Top. You look pretty.
Love your advices!Thank you!🌹
Loved your video. Lots of great suggestions for productive sewing. I agree that watching TV or listening to a podcast can be distracting as they require your undivided attention. I do however, always listen to music when I sew but I don't find it distracting...more like soothing background music that becomes 'white noise' as I concentrate on my sewing project. I'm going to have to give some thought to your suggestion about sewing sequencing. I'm a beginner at sewing and when I transfer my markings to my pattern pieces, I'm finding that if I don't construct the garment fairly soon after that, all my pattern markings disappear...which is very frustrating. As I become more experienced with different ways to transfer pattern markings so that they don't quickly disappear, I think sewing sequencing will become a very effective option for me.
Hello there! When you are just starting - sometimes it makes more sense to construct the garment right away while your memory is still fresh with all the pattern information and tips and tricks - I totally get it, and probably taking one project at a time before you find your strength is a good suggestion, too! You are totally right! So glad that you mentioned that, because when I talk about sewing I automatically think of my own experiences of the moment, and sometimes forget how it was when we were just getting started! Happy sewing, hope to see you here again and thank you for your comment!
I'm just getting into garment sewing-and ran into the same problem (markings disappearing)--to the point where I don't even know what's what! Very frustrating. After just seeing this, I think I can tile maybe a couple of patterns at the same time, cut them out, BUT do the marking AND sewing at the same time (or at least start it while the markings are fresh). Thanks for sharing! :-)
Great tips!Thank you again!
Starbucks Alumni - Assistant manager from the early '90s. Great list!
Jenni- hello there!!! Early 90's - a lot of things have changed at Starbucks since then. I miss working at Sbux, but in the small town where we moved - we don't have any opportunity at Sbux. Great to see fellow green aprons here :)
You look very spingy. Love the color block and earrings. Tanks for the tips!
Jan, thank you so much! Everything is me made - can't wait for the summer here :)
Yes, I was so confused this make sense!! I couldn’t get organized! My sewing room is MY bedROOM 😂
I love the top you are wearing
Ahhhh yes, however, make certain you've tested your original pattern FIRST before doing step #2 Sewing Sequencing. I have done the pattern cutting AND fabric cutting BEFORE testing the garment for the first time and that did NOT go well as I'm sure you can imagine. Now I know better and do a test sew first before proceeding. :-)
Thanks for sharing!
Well done . 👏👏👏👏👏👏
Thank you, Constance!!!
I do love TNT patterns..!!
That's awesome - I am always so happy when I know that I have a selection of go to patterns that I can use to create any look I might have in mind!
Believe it or not ,when i cut the fabric to make something, before i sew it ,i plan all the work in my mind late at the night when i go for sleep. Like i count sheep.
Ha ha, me too! Not before sleep, but before I am ready to dive into the process! Glad I am not alone - thank you for sharing, Maria!
Thought I was the only one who pinned, cut, and sewed like other count sheep. I have so many UFOS in my dream world seems I always fall asleep before I finish.
I definitely do "sequence sewing" (you would've made a good manager Alisa😊...I was a Maccas gal myself)
it may seem annoying at first to swap threads constantly but trust me it works. For example, I have 4 tops- quite involved- I made the first one, it suited me.....so made three more in very different colours etc.
Cut out patterns etc at the same time etc, but most importantly.....sewed all at the same time too.
Pin as many seams or darts etc as possible on each item-everytime with each turn.
So use thread number one on sewing machine for top one, then swap to thread colour two and sew same seams on top two, switch to thread colour number three and repeat.
The first few times I sat there and swapped out my thread colour and bobbin- ......after only a couple of seams- ......to know I was only going to switch back in a minute after more pinning!!!!......I thought, this is going to drive me bloody bananas.....but after a couple of swaps I thought this is actually going to be easier better and faster!
It's probably even easier on newer machines where you can use different materials! I have a very much loved (though wouldn't say no to winning lottery and buying a nice big new Brother sewing machine) Toyota Quilt Master 13yrs? old machine. So this only really works for me with only same-same fabrics and thread etc, as I can't adjust settings back and forth for different materials as you can with new machines with the press of a button.
And also with many seams, if you sew properly, you can actually go on sewing your next different colour material- with the wrong thread colour from the previous one, so as to not have to keep swapping threads. it may not be a vital part or seam that's seen at the end etc and won't stand out coz you've used different colour thread to material!😄 happy sewing gals, Moan!
Simone - hello there! Great to see more food service people over here! Yay! So, I was actually debating on to include this or not, because I thought people will think I ma crazy, but I am sooooo one the same page with you about bobbin thread, pinning AND getting away with using the "wrong" color of thread for your project. I do just like you! The only thing, I will usually use the right color thread to sew the seam, but when I serge, I usually change just one needle thread, the rest is either white/black/beige. Unless I work with chiffon and you can see everything through! He he, so great that there are some like minded people out there!!! Thank you for your awesome comment - sew up a storm and see you here soon!
Alisa Shay - Thoughtful Creativity yes! I have many black pants etc, that have red overlocker on the inside so I could easily see where the hell my sewing is, versus black thread and especially where my mistakes end up 😉! Keep videoing, your a natural in front of the camera 😊
Thank you, Simone! LOVE your comments! :)
My issue is that I love reading, sewing and watching UA-cam videos and there is just so much leisure time. Thus, it takes me ages to make each garment.
I hear you! I loved multitasking while sewing until I realized that. But if that brings you joy- no reason to stop. Be I know if the project takes me so much longer to complete then it should have, I can get frustrated. Thank you for your comment! Happy sewing!
Do you have a You Tube for the blocked top your wearing , nice
Love your video! Very helpful tips. How do you store your patterns?
I store my patterns by, taking out the tissue paper or paper and put it into A4 clear sleeve, number the top right corner and store in number order with ALL my other patterns.
In another box I have all the pattern covers with the instructions left inside (to glance at them immediately if needed) so I can go through the box and see all my patterns at once, to see the difference between them all. And you always forget you had one or two of them!
In the pattern covers box they are separated into dresses, pants, mixed.... etc etc etc! Hope that helps you for ideas
@@simoneduff1689 Thank you have a good system going there. I'll try that too!👍
Tanya, great question - I am actually working today on a video about that. Somewhat similar to Simone's system, the only thing - I store pattern instructions electronically, on my laptop. Thank you for a great question and happy sewing!
i was a starbucks mgr. in st louis
Phew, if I would follow your tips, I would be maybe more productive, but it would also take all the fun out of it.
Angela, I totally get it! It is not for everyone, some people get joy of completion of the project, some enjoyy the process, some both. Would you have any tips on how to not to take all the fun out of it? Please share if you do! Thank you Angela! :)
Fun!
Yay! Happy Sewing!
I love that dress u wear can u dy it thanks
Anne, that a top and it is my personal pattern that I have been working on for some time - it will be ready to be released sometime! Keep an eye on this channel - lots of fun sewing stuff coming up! :)