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Sewing Made Simple: Tips for Effortless Projects

April 1, 2024

April showers bring May flowers, and what better way to spend those rainy days than with some easy sewing projects?

This month, we're all about making sewing as effortless as possible. Here are some tips to simplify your sewing process and enhance your enjoyment of this rewarding hobby.

  1. Use Prewound Bobbins: Save time by using pre-wound bobbins. They're a real timesaver, especially for large projects or when you're switching frequently between thread colors. Plus, they offer consistent tension that can improve your stitching quality.
  2. Simplify Patterns: Start with simple patterns that require fewer pieces and straightforward construction. Look for patterns labeled "Easy" or "Beginner" and gradually work your way up to more complex projects as you gain confidence and skill.
  3. Master the Art of Pressing: Properly pressing your fabric before and during the sewing process can drastically improve the finished look of your project. Use steam and a pressing cloth to avoid shiny marks on delicate fabrics. Remember, pressing is not the same as ironing; you're aiming to gently press down, not move back and forth.
  4. Choose Fabrics Wisely: Work with user-friendly fabrics. Cotton is a great starting point for beginners due to its ease of handling. Avoid slippery, stretchy, or very fine fabrics until you're more comfortable with your sewing skills.
  5. Keep Your Machine Maintained: A well-oiled and clean sewing machine makes for smooth sewing. Regular maintenance can prevent a host of issues, so clean out lint and change needles regularly to keep your machine running smoothly.

Sewing doesn't have to be complicated to be fulfilling. By starting with simple projects and employing these tips, you can enjoy creating beautiful items without stress. So, grab your fabric and thread, and let's make April a month filled with creative joy and sewing successes!

Happy Crafting!

 

Sew What!

To adequately prepare for classes and events, we ask that you please register at least 2 weeks prior to the start date.  Your space in class will not be held withhout payment.  Each class has a minimum, and maximum, number of students and may fill, or be cancelled, prior to your payment.

If a minimum number of students is not met, you will be notified, and your class fees refunded, at least 1 week prior to the class start date.  If you need to cancel cancel, please call the store at least 1 week prior to class for a full refund. No refunds of class or kit fees will be issued for cancellations under 1 week before the class start date. No shows will forfeit class and kit fees.


Upon registration, please review the list of supplies needed for the class on the class listing. All supplies should be purchased prior to class. Classes typically do not include time to purchase supplies. Unless otherwise noted, all supplies are available at Sew What! Inc.  Students will receive a 10% discount on all supplies listed.

We are diligent about enforcing copyright laws; if a book, pattern or embroidery design is required for a class, each student must purchase their own copy. There are no exceptions.

Students should bring their sewing machine with all of the appropriate parts (including the instruction manual, foot control and power cord). Students must be familiar with the basic operation (i.e. winding a bobbin and threading the machine) of their machine for creative classes, and the machine must be in good working condition. Alternatively, a student may pre-register to rent a sewing machine (when avail;able) for creative classes at a rental rate of $20 per class session.  Students who experiences great difficulty with their sewing machine during class may need to rent a machine.

Please be considerate of others. Do not bring children to class, wear heavy perfume or use cell phones during class. Please be prepared to start class on time.  Our doors typically open 30 minutes prior to your class start time to allow you to set up your sewing space. Classes begin and end promptly at the scheduled time.