Learning to Sew: A Beginner’s Guide To Making Your Own Clothes
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Are you excited to start sewing? If you’re eager to dive in — whether it’s to explore a creative outlet, make clothes that fit just right, or if you’ve just bought your first sewing machine—you’re in the right place! Let’s embark on this sewing journey by covering the essentials, from beginner-friendly fabrics and tools to mastering sewing patterns and tackling your first projects.
BUT FIRST, WHY SEW AT ALL?
There are many benefits to making your own clothes. Learning to sew isn’t just about choosing fabrics and patterns, though that’s an exciting part! It’s a powerful creative outlet that enables self-expression and sustainable fashion. Making clothes that are uniquely suited to you offers a sense of fulfillment and confidence. I began my journey through commercial fashion design, but it wasn’t until I started making clothes for myself that I truly appreciated the impact of creating garments tailored to my body.
Sewing is a deeply personal and rewarding skill. When you sew, you’re not just making clothes—you’re building skills and creating pieces that can last, with each project and creative process as unique as you are.
What Are the Basics I Need to Start Sewing?
Starting off with the right tools and materials will set you up for success, helping you to learn quickly and enjoy each project.
Essential Tools for Every Beginner
Let’s begin with the basics! These are the tools every beginner sewist needs:
Tape Measure: This flexible tool is essential for taking body measurements and cross-referencing them to your sewing patterns! If you’re using a hand-me-down tape, check it against a fixed ruler for accuracy as over time these can stretch and cause inaccurate metrics. I find a tape measure, with measurements marked on both sides and along both edges, is often easiest to use.
Pins and Needles: Pins hold fabric in place while you sew and come in various types and sizes suited to a range of fabrics. Glass-headed pins are easy to grip, whilst I opt for flat-headed ones when draping as they keep my project smooth and can be steamed over. Take care around the iron if you opt for plastic ones.
Thread: Cotton and polyester are common threads but you can get silk and elastic to name but a couple more. When starting out on your sewing journey, a general rule of thumb is to match your thread composition to your fabric— i.e. cotton threads for natural fabrics, polyester for synthetics.
Seam Ripper: This little tool will become a trusted friend for removing stitches and correcting mistakes! Seam rippers help you undo seams with precision, making it easy to fix any errors. It doesn’t matter what skill level you are, you’ll always need a seam ripper.
Fabric Scissors vs. Paper Scissors: Keep a separate pair of fabric scissors, reserved only for cutting textiles. Using fabric shears on paper can dull the blades quickly and lead to inaccurate and frustrating cutting. If you have two similar looking scissors, consider tying a ribbon around the handle of the ones intended for fabric as a visual reminder!
Iron: Pressing your seams and fabric ensures a clean, professional look - you can achieve this with any standard domestic iron. Always test the iron settings on a scrap piece of fabric to avoid causing any heat damage, and check the care instructions of your textile if possible.
Tape measure
Pins
Thread
Seam ripper
Scissors
Iron
Choosing the Right Sewing Machine
The best sewing machine for beginners doesn’t have to be complex. Look for a machine that can perform a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and buttonhole function. Many entry-level machines offer these options and come with user-friendly guides for setup and operation so definitely refer to the manual if at any point you’re unsure. As your skills grow, these basic stitches will support your progression and give you the versatility to work on most beginner projects.
Selecting Beginner-Friendly Fabrics and Patterns
Choosing the right materials makes learning to sew much easier. Start with stable, beginner-friendly fabrics that are easy to handle, press, and sew. Here are a few suggestions:
Basic sewing machine.
Cotton: Lightweight and easy to press, cotton is an excellent fabric for beginners. It’s available in a range of colours and patterns to suit your style.
Linen: This is a sturdy, breathable option, ideal for summer clothing. Linen tends to hold its shape well, making it easier to sew.
Polyester Blends: If you’re looking for an affordable option, polyester blends are a good choice. However, keep in mind that they may not be as breathable as natural fibres, especially for clothing.
I would advise avoiding stretchy or slippery fabrics like jersey or silk for your first few projects as they require more advanced techniques and might lead to frustration which is not the goal when starting an exciting new hobby.
Example of a PDF Pattern instruction booklet from the Gemini Blouse
SELECTING A SEWING PATTERN
When selecting a sewing pattern, consider shop-bought patterns or PDF patterns from independent designers (like Digital Pattern Library!). Shop-bought patterns are often printed on tissue paper as a hard copy with the size range nested on top of each other, you can follow the guide and cut out your chosen size before following the instructions.
PDF or digital patterns, however, are often more accessible and come with printing at home guides for you to use a domestic printer or a copy shop file should you wish to get it printed professionally. PDF patterns are very accessible and popular amongst independent pattern companies so allow you to support small brands. Mine, for example, also come with a bonus fashion file pack to support your learning and should you wish to join my fashion membership, The DPL Atelier, I also give you the money for your sewing pattern off your first month!
Both hard copy and digital options come with detailed instructions for cutting out your pieces and sewing them together alongside fabric recommendations. Your choice is simply a matter of preference.
How Can I Overcome Common Challenges as a Beginner?
Every new skill comes with its challenges, and sewing is no exception. But with the right approach, you can turn those challenges into learning opportunities. Start simple! Straight-line projects like skirts or tote bags are ideal for beginners. They’ll help you practice essential techniques, like side seams and darts, without the complexity of closures like zippers and buttonholes. The DPL Tote Bag is a great beginner project with only straight seams, perfect for honing your stitching accuracy.
Finding Inspiration for Your First Projects
The DPL Tote is entirely made up of straight seams!
Starting with the right project is key. Here are a few beginner-friendly ideas:
Skirts: A skirt is a fantastic beginner project that introduces you to key sewing concepts like darts (small, triangular folds of fabric that shape garments) and side seams.
Tote Bags: A tote bag is another simple project with straight seams, making it perfect for practicing. Plus, it’s both fun and functional! Consider trying The DPL Tote Bag pattern.
Home Décor: Simple pillowcases or napkins can be great projects for practicing straight seams and getting comfortable with your machine. Our FREE fabric planter pattern is a great home-storage solution consisting of easy-peasy seams.
Tips for Staying Motivated and Enjoying the Learning Process
Sewing is a skill that grows with patience and practice. To keep yourself motivated, try setting small goals, breaking down techniques into manageable steps (which our Fashion File packs are great for!), and enjoying each accomplishment. Remember, mistakes are a natural part of the learning journey, especially in sewing. Embrace every mistake as a learning moment! Every project is a chance to improve, and every misstep is a step closer to mastering the craft. Sewing is a skill that takes time and patience to develop. Keep experimenting, trying new fabrics and techniques, and don’t be afraid to try again.
Common Beginner Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Dealing with Mistakes
As a beginner, it’s common to make errors like uneven stitches or sewing seams incorrectly. In fact, a seam ripper is one of the most-used tools for beginners and seasoned sewists alike. Take your time, go slowly, and don’t hesitate to try again. Each project will bring more confidence and fewer mistakes!
Managing Time and Patience
Sewing can feel time-consuming, but setting realistic goals can help you stay on track. For example, try dedicating just 15-minutes a day to a project. Before you know it, you’ll have a completed garment or accessory to enjoy! For example, we set a small “creative quick-win” prompt each week inside The DPL Atelier which are actionable tasks that can be achieved in 10-minutes or less, allowing us to keep the momentum even when life gets in the way.
Choosing the Right Fabric and Tools
Beginners often struggle with choosing the right fabric. Avoid stretchy or slippery fabrics like jersey or silk, which require more advanced handling. Stick with cotton or linen until you feel more comfortable. If you need advice, visit a reputable fabric store or reach out to an online fabric provider—they’re often happy to help beginners find the right material.
Our Fashion File Packs are great beginner resources.
Interactive Sewing Tips and Resources
Ready to take your sewing to the next level? Explore our online resources for more support:
Fashion File Packs: Our collectible documents break down pattern drafting and sewing methods into easy to follow steps, click here to start learning.
Quick Tutorial Video: Watch our comprehensive guide on getting started with making your own clothes, available here.
Beginner Courses: Sewing is just one cornerstone of the fashion process, our range of courses offer guided tutorials and beginner-friendly lessons across design and pattern making to help create your dream wardrobe.
Conclusion
Learning to sew is a wonderful journey filled with creativity and self-expression. By starting with simple tools, fabrics, and techniques, you’re setting yourself up for success. Every project brings you one step closer to a wardrobe filled with clothes you’ve crafted yourself—a collection as unique as you are.
So take it one stitch at a time, celebrate your progress, and don’t be afraid to share your journey.
Stay safe, keep creative and I’ll catch you on the flip side x
