Absolute beginner sewing

[sandwiches77]

OK my skill level is zero and I don't own a machine. I just about know one end of a needle to the other, I think you get the picture!!

Without a machine I realise it is going to be hard to learn but I don't want to buy one with my zero skill level. What's the best way forward, can I hire a sewing machine? What can I start without a machine that is really really easy? I'm not a practical person and find crafts hard!

You could have a look on gumtree or other local selling sites for a cheap second hand machine and some old curtains as a cheap way of getting practice fabric.

I definitely found machines a bit intimidating at first. I could not get my head around the threading bit! But I followed the instructions and got going.

Not to get too philosophical but I've found the learning process of following a pattern, making mistakes, unpicking them and re-doing things has really helped my tendancy towards judging myself as crap if I don't get something right first time. And I've made some stuff!

Enjoy it, it's very satisfying!

Ancient is fine for a sewing machine. The basic structure has not changed in well over 100 years, they became electric but apart from that not much difference. A lot of the older models, eg sixties and seventies, are much more robust, reliable and better quality, and will sew thicker fabrics. They can be serviced easily.
The modern computerised ones have more things to go wrong, and can be complicated and confusing for a beginner.

Those mini machines are horrendous. They're almost toys.
I bought my first Brother sewing machine for £40 on Facebook marketplace and it was amazing!
I started as an absolute beginner, completely self taught. I now have a handmade children's clothes business and absolutely love sewing!

I ran a sewing course for some home ed kids recently and it was amazing how quickly they improved. They went from a somewhat wonky pin cushion to a quilted table mat via a cushion cover, apron, tote bag and needle book.

I bought a spare sewing machine off Ebay for £80 and although it's old and only has straight and zigzag stitches, it's a lovely machine and was absolutely fine for beginners. It's also very heavy and better if I want to do some slightly more heavy duty sewing.

I've seen some really reasonably priced sewing machines on FB Marketplace, so that might be worth a look.