Do you have any deep dark sewing secrets you want to get off your chest? Share any sewing confessions or unpopular opinions you might have
Sewing Confessions
I'll start - I've never used a twin needle! This might not be such a big one, but after over 10 years of sewing... it's something I really should have a go at
OK! I truly hate zips. I don't know anyone who likes sewing them, but most manage it, and some do it very well indeed. I am not good at following videos, but have watched many. I have been shown properly, as a child, and again as an adult, one-on-one, and it never takes! I always wobble. I will do anything to avoid a zip!
Well, despite likeing hand sewing, I often baste on the machine - partly because of time, but also it is sturdier if making a toile, checking fit etc.
Yesterday I was ironing a favourite top that is about 5 years old, and noticed that one of the armscye seams had come partially undone. I went to repair it, and realised that it was actually a basting stitch! I had basted both arms, obviously decided it was fine - then even finished the seam edges - but not sewn the seam properly. It must have been strong to last this long!
Glad to know I'm not the only one. I tried once and never use it again. One day, I will. But not today.
Hmm confession- i am nervous about new patterns. Especially for wovens. I made tons of things but every time when I decide on using new pattern I drag my feet about, especially if I mention it on my YT channel. When I start I am fine, just the moment when I supposed to start sewing it 🙈
Hehe, I totally get that one Agata! I keep mentioning on YouTube that I'm going to learn to sew jeans... it's going to become a meme now I'm sure!
Not sure if this is a confession or an unpopular opinion, but I love hand sewing. I will choose to slipstitch the entire hem of a dress rather than run it through a machine. I'm never happier sewing than when I get to do some hand stitching (with the telly or youtube on in the back ground of course).
I can definitely understand that, I think a hand sewn hem is such a lovely finish and very much feels connected to seamstresses of the past - my Nan would always hand sew a hem. Alas... I'm often too impatient!
I love handsewing. Often I will finish hidden bias binding with handsewing
I'm doing more and more hand sewing. I get much better control than using machine.
I've done a few hand stitched buttonholes because bound buttonholes scare me too much.
I've put off sewing apparel for a long time because I'm finicky about seam finishes. Time for me to learn!
Ooh there are so many lovely seam finishes you could try - there is a video series in the tutorials section on here for different seam finishes
I love a flat-fell. It’s not always the appropriate finish, but it suits the clothes I like to wear! It makes everything so neat and tidy! Love it.
I never mark/use notches, aside from for bust darts 😮
Hemming. I hate hemming.
I hate hemming too Donnie
Me too.
I'm a bloomin cocky beginner who shouldn't have even thought about attempting to sew a pair of tight fitting trousers with pockets and a zip! Ladies of the Saturday morning chat - you were absolutely right hahaha :D xx
Not cocky - just keen and curious! The jeans-type of tight-fitting trouser is notoriously challenging. Can anything be salvaged from them? How far did you get? Tell us more…
Have you made any trousers before? If not, it really is worth looking at the ‘pants’ style - especially with the hot weather coming! A half elasticated waist, no zips, slightly wider leg. It gives you a chance to start off by thinking about the height of the ‘rise’ on your body and crotch ‘depth’ first. Everything else usually fits!
I’m sure Glenda and others will have a lot to say about trouser fitting! It’s a complex subject!
I’m glad to see your ‘hahaha’ ! Don’t be despondent !
Aah thanks Donnie x Not despondent, I’m really enjoying learning and have been laughing at myself every time I have to get the unpicker out 😂. I got up to the zip, then that process blew my mind and I gave up 🤭. Was impressed with my pockets though, first time Edgestitching. Have attached a few pics, sorry about the photo quality, the fabric is the same colour 😁
Excellent pockets!
Aw Netty - I loved your gung-ho vibes of a confident beginner and I'm sure you learnt a few things along the way! I agree with Donnie, don't be despondent and let's crack straight on with something else.
I'm a big fan of Sew Liberated Chanterelle Pants and think they are great for beginners.
Aww thanks so much. I laughed my head off when your latest video popped up on YouTube, the timing was perfect. It was like the sewing angels were telling me to slow down and enjoy the process 😁. I’ll check out the Chanterelle pants, thanks for the recommendation xx
Can also recommend the Emerson pants. I'm at working having a cheeky check in so don't have sewing stuff in front of me but I think they might be from True Bias...
It’s all about the journey, not the destination sometimes!
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