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Any sewing aficionados? I need a stitch and bitch...

967 replies

IDontMindMarmite · 15/11/2020 09:05

Now I know when the Sewing Bee is on, there are loads of super talented ladies who would be a gold mine of information! It'd be great if we could gather. Maybe even have a section to ourselves in "In the club". If this thread doesn't die a death anyway. Please say I if you are in favour!

So over lockdown the sequel, I thought i'd actually get my sewing machine out. I sound like someone who has a clue - I don't. I was gifted a sewing machine years ago. I've made two pairs of curtain tie backs since. I've been to a class or two (made a cushion under supervision! And a canvas bag) but can't say i've truly got the hang. It's getting my head round the machine more than anything. It scares me!

Now though, i've decided to tackle mal fitting clothing. I've put darts in DH's shirts using youtube tutorials. I'd like to adjust some of my tops but would love someone to ask - do you only dart shirts? Youtube tutorials for tops like I have do a different method where you pin and sew a new side seam. Also, can I just use pinking shears to trim the excess fabric instead of doing a final zigzag stitch or is that too lazy?

Any general chat welcomed.

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IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 08:49

Well done Vermont! Starting projects is easy peasy but finishing them takes mettle! Grin

I'm going to rip out the failed darts and try taking the seams in instead, think that'll work on striped shirts?

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TheEmojiFormerlyKnownAsPrince · 16/11/2020 09:33

Idontontmindmarmite, move the darts to the the side of the boobs, then you can’t see them. It will mean unpicking the sleeve a bit.

Let me find a link

TheEmojiFormerlyKnownAsPrince · 16/11/2020 09:35

This might help

www.theshapesoffabric.com/2018/02/28/dart-manipulation-basics/

IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 09:51

Thanks Emoji, it's for DH's shirt so no boobs to worry about Grin.

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TheEmojiFormerlyKnownAsPrince · 16/11/2020 09:52

Ha ha!!! Ok!!! No moobs then! 😂

Halsall · 16/11/2020 10:59

Also sorry to hear you've been unwell BitOfFun Flowers

MissisBoote · 16/11/2020 11:12

I'd love to join.

I started sewing two years ago and it's practically saved my mental health. I'm mostly housebound to due illness and sewing gives me some sense of achievement back and I feel like I have a super power Grin

I've just finished making a Sapporo coat by Papercut Patterns. It's one of the first patterns that I saw when I started sewing and I'm dead chuffed with the result. I really took my time pressing all the seams with the clapper and you can really tell the difference.

dillite · 16/11/2020 13:01

Wow this thread got busy fast! I will have some serious catching up to do this evening.

MoonlightInVermont · 16/11/2020 14:03

You’re spot on, MissisBoote, about the health benefits of sewing. I think it’s very good for mindfulness because you have to be in the moment and then (unless there’s a stitching disaster, and most of those can be rectified) you have created something lovely at the end of it. Gardening is the same for me.

m0jit0 · 16/11/2020 16:37

Hi sewers!
Can I join please?
I have had a sewing machine for years but just got into sewing during lockdown. I mainly make clothes for me and my kids. I also have acquired a bit of a fabric addiction so I'm on a mission to reduce my stash before I buy any more lol.

IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 16:51

Welcome welcome welcome everyone.

I can't say that sewing is at all relaxing for me at the moment, more stressful! But hopefully it will come with perseverance!

I'm very impressed with clothes makers, that coat @MissisBoote! Congratulations, any pictures?

I've always wondered how hard it is to do curtains, they look straightforward after all...I have a book on how to make curtains too but never tried it. If I hit a road block like you have @1990s then i'm completely without a paddle. Hopefully some of the ideas from the (incredibly) experienced ladies on here will help you.

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MissisBoote · 16/11/2020 17:24

Yes @MoonlightInVermont even the swearing is mindful when it all goes tits up Grin

Here's my coat @IDontMindMarmite
A really straightforward make so it's good for a first coat pattern. Would recommend.

Any sewing aficionados? I need a stitch and bitch...
PickAChew · 16/11/2020 17:30

Can I join in? I've recently got back into dressmaking after a 20 year hiatus. I've done bits here and there but a small house and kids with hands everywhere made large projects difficult. I started with a slightly naff top in some cheap lawn to get used to my new machine (bought about 4 years ago but I found it quite intimidating) and I've been on a Jersey pyjama stint. After I finish this pair, I have plans for some nani iro and merchant and mills tops.

IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 17:52

That looks amazing!! What kind of fabric is that?

Welcome @PickAChew. Love PJs

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Jojoanna · 16/11/2020 17:59

I will join ,, although I’m terrible at sewing I do enjoy it

PickAChew · 16/11/2020 18:10

My pj bottoms are the Stella joggers from Tilly's Stretch. They're a great fit for me. These are with the tabitha top from make it simple which is shapeless but comfy. The shoulders are a little wide for me. My other two pairs are the frankie top from stretch, which is an easy raglan.

Any sewing aficionados? I need a stitch and bitch...
PickAChew · 16/11/2020 18:11

@MissisBoote

Yes *@MoonlightInVermont* even the swearing is mindful when it all goes tits up Grin

Here's my coat @IDontMindMarmite
A really straightforward make so it's good for a first coat pattern. Would recommend.

That is gorgeous.
IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 18:12

Love the polka dots and colour. Well done!

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BitOfFun · 16/11/2020 18:56

The coat is just beautiful!

I'm really drawn to those pyjama bottoms too, especially as I live in them Grin.

Thanks for the good wishes too Flowers

JohnLapsleyParlabane · 16/11/2020 19:53

I'm so proud of my new pants. I don't think I'll ever feel confident enough to make a coat though!

CaptainMyCaptain · 16/11/2020 19:55

I make my own pants using Megan Nielson's Acacia pants pattern. It's free if you sign up for her newsletter and is great for using up jersey scraps.

IDontMindMarmite · 16/11/2020 19:57

Epic pants @JohnLapsleyParlabane, how difficult were they?

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JohnLapsleyParlabane · 16/11/2020 20:00

Really not verySmile
I've made the kids version a few times but the instructions are clear and they took me under an hour to sew. The waist and leg bands are a bit tricky to position, but it's easier on grown up sizes than 3yo!

CaptainMyCaptain · 16/11/2020 20:14

@JohnLapsleyParlabane

Really not verySmile I've made the kids version a few times but the instructions are clear and they took me under an hour to sew. The waist and leg bands are a bit tricky to position, but it's easier on grown up sizes than 3yo!
What pattern do you use?
PickAChew · 16/11/2020 20:17

I'd love to know the pattern, too. I've accrued a few sizeable scraps and they look so comfy.

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