Want To Try Your Hand At Sewing...You'll Need Some Sewing Patterns?

Want To Try Your Hand At Sewing...You'll Need Some Sewing Patterns?

 by: Mike Yeager

These days, sewing patterns are widely available. Almost any department store or even some discount stores carry sewing supplies and some even carry sewing machines. As this hobby grows, the amount of available products grows as well. Once a necessity, sewing has become a hobby among young and old. And, in this age of the world wide web it is now easier then ever to sell hand made articles as well.

First, patterns. People who are new to sewing will need to buy a book or two (or find them in the nearest library) and read up on the lingo and techniques. Once an understanding of how to use the sewing machine (and even how to thread a needle) is learned, finding projects to do is simple. There are many, many books that can provide ideas.

Sewing patterns themselves can be found in craft and fabric stores and also some department stores. Many times they can be found online as well. Every imaginable pattern is available. Or, creating a new idea is an alternative as well. The average person who is new to sewing and sewing machines, will need some practice and tons of patience! There is also a need for basic supplies such as needles, threads of different colors and strengths, fabric, and maybe a how to book to help them along. All of these supplies will be available in craft or fabric stores.

Of course the best way to experience the art of sewing is to do it. Having an experienced teacher is also a big advantage as there is not a book out there that can top experiencing hands on training. There are also many sewing classes available. Try looking into area recreation centers or even local colleges that offer mini courses. Mostly, practice will be a guide as to what can be created, that and of course, imagination. So, pick a pattern that is not too complex, gather the supplies, and try to sew!

Sewing As A Part Time Income

Many of us have contemplated sewing for a source of part-time income. I, myself sold children's designs for a few years, along with doing repairs and alterations. I found it very satisfying, but hardly a dependable source of income.

Part of the reason for this I think, was the ever present threat of someone else doing the same work for less. Many women find it hard to charge a decent amount for their work. A lady in our community constructed an unlined jacket for someone for ten dollars. I was made to look like a very high priced villain. A simple alteration costs more than that.

If you are contemplating sewing for any sort of income, please check around to what others are charging. You may be selling yourself short. You may also be surprised to see the quality of the work involved. I have been surprised to see very shoddy workmanship with some while others work tirelessly for a few paltry dollars. Always make sure all your threads are neatly tucked under and secured. Perfect your buttonholes, collar points, even hemming can become an art. Make sure the inside of your garments are as well finished as the outside. I was told many years ago that this was the sign of a quality garment.

If you have doubts as to your ability to work with certain fabrics, buy remnants and experiment. Velvets and satins are tricky. Sewing for others during the holiday season or a special occasion (think wedding)can be a nightmare. It is better to turn the job down until you are more confident in your skills and have a good idea of how long it will take you to complete the job. Weddings can be a very emotional time for the bride, her mother and attendants. I sold fabrics to a bride who had absolutely no say in anything. Her mother was running that show. They tried to scrimp by with barely enough fabric to save money. The bride came back weeks later, practically in tears, needing more of the same fabric. She knew her chances were slim to none of me having any more of the fabric. As luck would have it, I did have more, but this is a prime example of how emotions can run high with this sort of a job. Then, they were not happy with the job the seamstress did on the bridesmaids dresses. What did they expect, full dresses, very fitted for twenty-five dollars each. As you can see, it was a fiasco from start to finish.

My point is, don't get caught in this sort of situation. If you can't fill their requirements, don't take the job on. Not all customers realize what they are doing when they ask for something to be done. They don't realize the time it takes, the work involved or the know how required to make a quality product on time. It is your job, as the seamstress, to explain this to the potential customer. Your quality of work is what will set you apart from all the others. The impression you leave with the customer, good or bad, stays with them. Always remember that.

I could go on and on about the pitfalls of sewing for others, this is just a reminder to not underestimate yourself or to let the customer talk you into something you are not sure of. Remember, you are in the drivers seat.

Mary Wilkins is the mother of three grown children and six perfect grandchildren. She is also the owner/editor of http://sew-whats-new.com