New to sewing

New to sewing? You're in the right place. My patterns are designed to be approachable, even if you're still learning. This page will walk you through everything you need to get started. 

Now before we can get started sewing, here's a few things you'll need first:

• Sew machine (no need for an expensive, mine was £85)
• Fabric scissors 
• Pins or clips
• Measuring tape 
• Iron
• Tailors chalk or heat erasable pen
• Seam ripper

Most sewing patterns that you can buy online will come as a PDF, they are digital downloads you print at home or at your local copy shop. You will get sent the pattern in a few different formats A4, US letter and A0 (but not always as each pattern is different). 

Step 1: Download the files 

Step 2: Print either at home or at a copy shop

Step 3: If you are printing with either A4 or US letter you will most like have to assemble the pages together with some sellotape

Step 4: cut out your size

When it comes to choosing your size for a sewing pattern you go off your body measurements, not shop sizing. Every sewing pattern will come with a size guide, using your waist, hip and bust measurements you can figure out which size to cut out. If you are between sizes or unsure always go for the bigger size because then you can always take it in. With sewing patterns they aren't necessarily going to fit you perfectly so you may have to make a few adjustments. 

Now the fun bit, choosing a fabric. Every pattern will come with fabric recommendations as not all fabrics behave the same and this can affect how the garment looks. If you're new, I recommend starting with stable woven fabrics like cotton or linen. 

Every pattern will come with step-by-step instructions, all of my patterns also come with a video tutorial but if you are ever struggling with something feel free to DM or email me, I am always happy to help.

Most sewing patterns also come with seam allowance built into the pattern, if it doesn't it will be clearly stated. It will also tell you how much the seam allowance is, the standard it 3/8 of an inch. 

A big step that a lot of beginners miss doing is making a mock-up. I recommend making a mock-up before making the garment in your lovely expensive fabric. A mock-up is typically made in fabric like muslin or cotton calico but if you are a thrifty gal like myself head to your local charity shop or thrift shop and you will most likely find an old bedsheet or curtains you can use. 

If you are worried about messing up that it okay and totally normal, sewing is hard but with some patience and practice you will be making your whole wardrobe before you know it. When I first started sewing I made loads of mistakes but like Bob Ross said "mistakes are happy accidents." 

Don't worry if this feels like a lot, you'll get the hang of it and if you ever get stuck, feel free to reach out as I am always happy to help.