I want to learn how to sew and sewing machine recommendations...

[angel1976]

That's it really. I want to learn how to sew, where do I go to learn (SE London)? Where do I even start looking? I want to make buntings and quilts.

Also, does anyone have any sewing machine recommendations? Good ones for around £100 for the purpose I want it for? Many thanks!

Ax

re the sewing machine have a look around on the net.

I would recommend ensuring you get a machine with a TOP LOADING BOBBIN (not a front loading bobbin) - they do tend to cost a little more but it's a better design & tend to snag less.

My Mum always had an ELNA which I loved but they are pricey. I brought a JANOME recently (top loading yes) and I like that. It was about £200. There are machines at the £100 price - you need to look around.

Re classes - I see there are some very expensive classes out there. But perhaps your local borough runs classes for reasonable price? Have you looked on Floodlight/Hot COurses?

If you had a machine you could try teaching yourself using youtube / videojug type tutorials. Start off with some straight sewing - like a bag, or something (thats what we did way back in Home Economics) & take it from there.

I've not made quilts, but there is load and loads of info online & books. Maybe start at library for technique books.

Perhaps you could find a local sewing mentor - the assistance I had from Mum, Grandma, StepMum when learning was invaluable.

Happy sewing

Thanks! That's great advice. I will 'study' it later...

I've asked on my local freecycle to see if there's any sewing machines about so might start there before splashing out. I've tried looking online at videos and patterns but it looks difficult. I really would love someone to show me. Will have a look around Floodlight and Hot Courses. I don't actually know anyone that sews.

I just want to make a baby quilt (not for use, probably more for keepsake) as I figured it can't be that hard to sew squares together? I could be so wrong! LOL.

Sometimes you can find sewing machines in charity/second hand shops or maybe even freecycle? worth a look anyway. I'd go for a simple one that doesn't do lots of fancy things, that way there's less to get confused with and less to break down. Singer machines are pretty universal, and check out your council for adult learning courses and once you've found one you will have someone who can advise you if you get stuck with anything.
My mum did made alot of patchwork quilts, and the best tip I can give from my (very limited) experience is keep the ironing board handy as you will get flatter seams and a much less lumpy finish!
but most of all, have fun, it's meant to be a hobby not a chore!!

There's a place in ISlington called "The make lounge" which does one day courses (saves having to schlep to the FE college every tuesday)
not cheap but bloody good
HTH and good luck
Wish i had more time to sew.

I bought my last machine (a second hand Elna) from Battersea here. It was missing a few accessories which I got from Elna (you can get all those bits on ebay now) but then that was 10 years ago, I'm sure they would recommend you a good machine. Better a decent used machine than a cheap new one.

I've also got a lot of use from a really comprehensive sewing book such as this one the Reader's Digest complete guide to sewing. There are lots of books around on specifically quilts/bunting/home trimmings too.

In fact I have some trousers to alter so I'm going to go and thread up now, thanks for the reminder!

Just read the OP again. Try John Lewis for an introductory class on sewing, they sometimes have a half day teach-in class (well I know they do for knitting). Maybe ring up the Oxford Street branch.

Did you know you can hand sew patchwork too, it's not too hard and actually you can get a better result as it's easier to line up the pieces.

I've copied details of a couple of courses from Liberty (Regent Street too. they are £50 a go but it's a whole day and the most wonderful indulgent day out!

Saturday 1st May
Intermediate Patchwork with Janet Goddard
This workshop is ideal for those of you who have learned the basics in patchwork and would to like to learn some further techniques. We will explore a variety of skills and students will make blocks using foundation piecing, stained glass technique, and more complex machine piecing.

Saturday 8th May
Learn to Sew with Jenny Stilwel
The workshop aims to cover the basics of sewing and to give participants the confidence to go on to follow simple Amy Butler patterns.

You will learn all the skills necessary to complete a small tote bag on the day. You will be given guidance on adapting the tote bag pattern to include a lining, which can then be made at home.

This workshop will include guidance on:

• Cutting out paper patterns and fabrics; what do all the symbols mean?
• How to read a pattern
• Using a Sewing machine; getting started, threading it up, sewing in a straight line, how to control fabric when sewing
• Hand sewing a hem
• Top Stitching

I started sewing last year and did loads of research before taking the plunge...

I second the advice on here - a top loading bobbin is easier and picking a fairly simple starter machine makes learning how to use it much easier. I've got a brother XL5500SE which is in your price range and I found very easy to learn to use.

I couldn't get any courses near to me, but I've heard good things about this one in SE London - might be a useful introduction to see if you like it

As a total novice I bought this book which has been excellent!

Good luck and happy sewing!

ANGEL - I did some hand patchwork when I was a kid - quite time consuming.
I think re machine quilts, it won't be difficult, but it will be a matter of learning the technique/process. If you want all those easy squares to match up neatly, it's a little more complex than you might think, but easy once you know how.

as someone else commented, IRONING is essential to your end garment looking good. Never skip it if you want neat results (which you will) - so iron everything as you go.

It's ironic as I never iron anything - except when I am sewing (ok I may iron a silk dress before a wedding, but I cannot remember the last time I ironed a garment to wear)

Wow, that all looks amazing. Thank you! A day workshop sounds like the way to go. I am not a complete novice, having made little shorts and simple bag in my home economics class but that was a good 18 years ago! I will be damned if I can remember anything... I just need someone to show me physically how things are done.

I've asked on freecycle for a sewing machine but doubt anyone will give me one! It's just that I almost threw out an old babygro of both of DSs as it had holes in it but I love the pattern on the fabric and it just came to me that I should make a keepsake out of it (and other bits and bobs).

The Liberty courses sound good, almost worth the £50 alone if I could have morning/afternoon tea without my DSs! You have all great inspired me. Thanks!

I can't believe it! I am getting a Singer sewing machine off freecycle. Have no idea what model it is but I hope it works... It must be fate!

Let us know how you got on with it,

These guys also teach simple beginners sewing (based in East Dulwich, SE22) (I recently did a great knitting course with them):

www.makehq.co.uk

Liberty serve amazing scones for afternoon tea. Worth the course fee for that alone!!