Learn How to Sew: Why This Hobby Is Coming Back

Many have probably heard the term “sewing circle” used as a metaphor for a small gathering. However, there was once a time when people would gather for the express purpose of sewing. This skill is far from dying out, though — it’s making a solid return to the common list of hobbies. If you’re itching to learn how to sew, get ready to explore the basics, as well as why sustainability-minded people are doing so in drives.

What You’ll Need to Start

All you really need is a needle, thread, scissors and some fabric to get started. However, it does help a lot if you have a sewing machine. It makes the process go much faster, leaving many much more satisfied.

If you get a new machine, it should come with all the necessary pieces, but you’ll need sewing machine needles, bobbins, and dressmaker pins, with an optional pin cushion for storage. Like hand sewing, you’ll also need some hand needles for finishing things off, spools of thread, fabric scissors, and the all-important medium — fabric.

It also helps to get a measuring tape, fabric-marking pens or pencils, and a seam ripper. The measuring tape will help accurately capture your measurements, which you can mark on your fabric using the pencil or pen. They’ll also let you draw out a pattern, and everything will come out in the wash. A seam ripper will come in handy when you make a mistake and need to backtrack.

How to Start Sewing

If you want to learn how to sew by hand, you simply need to thread your needle and start moving it through your fabric. Sewing machine users will have to learn how to thread their machines first.

Threading a Sewing Machine

Place a bobbin on top of your machine and a spool of thread on the spool pin, placed so the string is coming from the back left if it’s sticking up and over the top left if it’s sideways. Wrap the thread around the piece sticking up to the left of the spool pin and direct it to the right, toward the bobbin.

There should be a tiny hole in the top of the bobbin. Thread some string through it and place it back on the winder, locking it in place according to your machine. Then, switch on your machine, either pull out the hand wheel on the right to wind or press your foot on the pedal, and go until the bobbin is full. Separate it from the spool with your scissors.

Next, turn off your machine. Pull a bit of thread from the spool and follow the instructions on your machine for bringing it down to the needle. To thread the needle, insert the string from front to back. Then, take the bobbin and place it in the case underneath the needle — make sure the thread is coming out counterclockwise. If there’s a small hook, pull the string through it and off to the left.

Finally, hold onto the spool thread with your left hand and turn the hand wheel once to move the needle down and up. Some machines have buttons instead — follow the same step, pressing twice to move the needle the same way. Lightly tug the string in your left hand until thread appears from the bottom, which is from the bobbin. Close up the bobbin cover and replace any pieces you needed to remove for the process, and you’re ready to start sewing.

4 Beginner Sewing Patterns

Now that you’re ready, it’s time to tackle a few projects. Here are some great ones beginners can whip out a few of.

1. Aprons

Make some aprons for your home or garden with these free patterns from Mood Fabrics. It’s excellent for those just starting out with sewing because you’re cutting a simple large shape, adding lining and creating pockets. Who knows — you might even find these styles suitable for storing your sewing notions.

2. Messenger Bag

Want something to carry your farmers market finds? Check out this messenger bag pattern, which uses just 1 yard of fabric. It’ll work up easily, and you’ll have a go-to pattern for awesome gifts.

3. Tennis Skirt With Shorts

If you want to dive right into clothing, check out this incredible pattern for a tennis skirt. While it might seem short, don’t worry — it has a pair of shorts underneath to offer maximum comfort. The pleats give it an adorable vintage look that works with practically any fabric pattern.

4. Bowl Cozy

Rejoice, soup fans — you can now enjoy your meal fresh off the stove or out of the microwave without scalding your hands. These nifty bowl cozies come in three sizes, ensuring even bigger pasta or stew vessels get greater functionality.

Why Do People Seem to Be Sewing More Now?

One complicated answer as to why more want to learn how to sew was the COVID-19 pandemic. When it started, lockdowns caused many to seek some form of fulfillment, which several found in the world of crafts. One manufacturer saw a 258% increase in sewing machine sales during COVID, and the desire to take things slower spawned an interest in handmaking items. Now, pattern production has exploded to fit many styles, and new shows like “The Great British Sewing Bee” introduce audiences to the joys of sewing.

Sustainability also plays a significant factor. The fast fashion industry contributes up to 10% of all carbon dioxide emissions and is responsible for around 20% of water pollution from fabric dyeing and treating. Additionally, it burns or landfills more than 92 million tons of fabric and is responsible for about 35% of microplastic pollution. Because of the growing awareness of environmental issues and interest in sustainability, more choose to make their own clothes to avoid high prices and fast fashion’s repercussions.

Slow living, the love of making something, and eco-consciousness have all come together to inspire people to learn how to sew. Making your own clothes allows you to understand your own body shape and create what fits you best. It allows a wide range of sizes and shapes to craft outfits tailored to their bodies, ensuring the fit is perfect and in a style they love.

It’s Easy to Learn How to Sew

Taking up sewing is one of the most rewarding things a person can do. You can make house items and clothing that suit your personality and get a fulfilling hobby, all while making the planet a better place. If you get really into it, you could even sell your goods or donate them. The sky is the limit when you own a sewing machine or get exceptional at hand sewing.