How easy is it to learn to sew?

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It's my birthday in a few days, I'm working at home, a large box containing a sewing machine addressed to my husband has just been delivered, I've guessed what I'm getting for my birthday! I've never used one before, I love watching Sewing Bee, but that's as close as I've ever got. Are there good books or you tube videos for learning to sew? I'm trying to muster enthusiasm, I would be feeling a lot happier if Amazon had just delivered Patrick Grant wearing a large bow.

There are loads of Youtube videos for all types of sewing. There are also forums full of people happy to help. A beginners class would be a good idea. One of the most difficult things about sewing is getting started, and gaining confidence. Just remember you won't have Patrick criticising everything you do (though he can come and sit in my sewing room any time he likes ). It doesn't have to be perfect on your first try. It is like everything else you will get better with practice.

Start simple - but make things you like. There is no point in starting with a simple skirt if you never wear skirts.

Here's a start for you:

It's easiest if someone shows you the basics - any chance your DH has also found you a "one day get to know your sewing machine" class? If not, I would find one to sign up for, because to start with it's good to be able to ask questions and have a helping hand with things. Once you're comfortable with the machine, books/you tube/magazines will give you plenty of tips and gentle projects, and it's very do-able.

Soon you too will have a house full of just-in-case fabrics buys, and half-finished projects unless that's just me

Don't think he's found me lessons, there's a lovely independent sewing shop in the nearest town so I'll have a chat to them and I think I found some tutorials online

I've a 7 yr old I can make dresses for, and I've threatened DH with a gardening smock if he ever bought me a sewing machine, so I've got to go through with that :)

In the mean time I'll just keep imagining Patrick sat in the corner giving words of encouragement ……

Merchant and Mills patterns. Just get those and you're set up and ready to go: they're quite easy and really lovely to make.

Oooh what make is it?

I found a weekend course by looking on hotcourses (at least i think thats what its called). I would thoroughly recommend a whole day or weekend because you cant fit much into 2 hours on a week night.

Oh a 7yo dd. Have a look at clothkits. They are a bit expensive, but you get everything you need - fabric, thread, fastenings etc and the pattern is printed on the fabric.

It's a Janome. I'll have a google for courses. Do Clothkits still exist? i remember my mum making me their clothes

Looking forward to seeing the gardening smock! Clothkits exists, based in Chichester these days (and online). Second vote for Merchant and Mills patterns, also Oliver+s for your DD's clothes.

Just had a look at Clothkits, it still sells the same pattern my mum made for me!! i recognise the purple cord pinafore my sister and I had

I just got the Merchant & Mills Workbook on Amazon for a good price. It's got some lovely patterns in.

I'd YouTube, and also check out some sewing blogs - figure outwhat floats your boat, then have a go. If you get stuck - we're here.