For a while I’ve been setting aside some money for a new sewing machine and keeping my eye out for a good deal on one. My old one, a basic Brother machine that my parents got me in college, has had more and more issues as time went on. I’ve had it in and out of the shop but still dreaded starting any big projects on it because I didn’t know when it would flip out on me next.
I saw that Costco had a good deal on a basic computerized model and after talking it over with N I went and got one over the weekend. (It was $10 cheaper at the store than online.) One of the reasons decided to buy this model at Costco (besides the $30 off coupon) was because of Costco’s lenient return policy. I know that if I have any issues with it and need to return it that they’ll take it back, even if it’s months later.
I haven’t gotten it out of the box yet but I’m really looking forward to using it. I don’t know what I’m going to make first, though. E already has a Halloween costume, so that’s out. I think it’d be good to start with a small project that would help me get to know the machine but is still very doable (I’m not an expert seamstress by any means).
What about you guys? Does anyone sew? Have any suggestions?
Start with a handbag and the experiment with the monogramming.
I always like to start out with a skirt or some pajamas when I'm getting back into sewing. They're both things that I love wearing, and pajamas specifically I can never quite find my exact style for sale in the store.
I like perusing the sale rack for patterns at Joann's, or checking out Wal-Mart's patterns (cheap!). If you can find an independent fabric store, those places are great and usually have some really different types of fabric that Joann's doesn't always have in their selection. You can also browse around online for great deals on fabric.
I sew, but not with any regularity…and I admit that I've only started following a real pattern once in my life (and ironically I never finished that project).
I'd suggest lounge pants – especially made from old/vintage/thrifted sheets.
I know I've read several blog posts about them over the years, and now of course I can't find them. I made a pair about a year ago and copied some pajama pants I already owned. But I'm sure there are some great inexpensive patterns out there for these too.
Ooh. How about one of those neat cloth tote bags made out of an old pillow case? I've seen tutorials for them online. Or a little cosmetics bag with a pretty print and a small zipper?
Also, I'd like to take this opportunity to brag about a sewing project I took on myself yesterday. I HEMMED MY OWN JEANS this past weekend BY HAND in that method where you retain the original hem. I am super proud of myself because it turned out pretty darned ok for my first time. Please be amazed.
I learned to sew when I was 13. Back in the day, all 8th grade girls took sewing while the boys took shop. My home-ec teacher mother taught me more at home and I sewed quite a bit for many years. What finally put me off it was the damn sewing machines, always breaking down. It was so so so frustrating. Every now and then I will face down the machine and try again. Last summer I reupholstered a super cool midcentury loveseat that I found at a consignment shop. Given your interest in woodworking, I bet you'd enjoy upholstery, too. Good luck, have fun, and return that machine for a full refund at the first sign of trouble! If they can send a man to the moon, they can build a sewing machine that does not reduce a grown woman to tears.
I can sew toddler-sized pillowcases or bean bags–that's about it. 🙂
Thanks for the ideas, everyone. Laura and Celeste, I think I might try my hand at some pajama pants and then maybe the top if I feel confident by then. I've been coveting some awesome flannel pajamas ever since I saw Liz Lemon in hers on this last week's 30 Rock. (http://www.usfreeads.com/2153646-cls.html) I've been to a few local quilting shops and they have some great fabrics.
Julia, great job on the jean hemming! I'm impressed. My problem is always that I'm eager to work on fun projects but don't like practical tasks so pants that need hemming always sit around way too long around here. (Particularly N's pants much to his dismay.)
Asianmommy, beanbags are definitely on my list of things to make. I think E would love them.
Sandra, I know what you mean about machines breaking down. I was disheartened when I read the reviews of the machine I just bought on Costco's site and there were already a few people complaining about tension issues. 🙁 I talked to my mom who is a serious quilter and she said that unless I get a serious (i.e. about $1000) then machine issues are to be expected from time to time. (Which wasn't what I really wanted to hear.) I guess we'll see. I'm keeping my receipt for sure though. I've been wanting to try an upholstery project for a while but sadly don't have any room in my house for any more furniture. But I'd love to see your upholstery project sometime. Perhaps you could post photos of it on a blog? *cough* hint! *cough*
I just got a sewing machine too!! Except I don't know how to use it… So I'll have to look for youtube videos on easy things…