Sewing tips

Originally published in the Ketchikan Daily News, January 2014; written by Tammy Dinsmore

I think it’s time to dig out my sewing machine! A new video series, “Teach Yourself to Sew”, from the editors of Threads magazine, has arrived here at the Public Library. Since I have very little experience with sewing clothes, I thought this would be a good place to begin my journey.

Season 1 is about 2.5 hours long and starts with sewing basics, such as equipment, notions, and stitch types then ends with skills involving buttons and buttonholes, installing snaps, and proper pressing. There is a project for sewing an apron that doesn’t require a pattern. Just some fabric, a tape measure, a rotary cutter, and your sewing machine and you’re pretty much set.

In season 2 you will learn about seams, casements for inserting elastic or draw cords into, how to gather, and adding embellishments to your garments. The best part is a do-it-yourself dress form. This is a great project (which requires the help of a friend) using an old t-shirt, plastic wrap, PVC pipe, batting, a pail of cat litter and best of all, Duct Tape! Seriously, what could be better than a project using Duct Tape? Well, ok, for you quilters and sewers out there I’m sure the answer is fabric! I really need to try this project.

Season 3 gets a little more involved and includes how to adjust your pattern for shoulder slope, the drape of the pattern and also includes some drafting skills for designing and fitting your garments. Two projects are included in this DVD, making a skirt and a pair of pants.

Season 4 goes couture! This is way beyond what I am capable of right now, but if you are a more experienced sewer, this DVD has some beautiful examples of couture garments. There are jackets and dresses with linings and some really pretty details. Advice is given for making test garments from muslin before cutting into your more expensive fabrics and then more details on setting in sleeves, different kinds of seams, and more pointers for pressing.

I’ve only covered a little of what each season offers. Whether you are a beginning sewer or an advanced one, there is something here for everyone. The first season is a little long, but seasons 2-4 are just a little over an hour in length.

...

So, tune up your sewing machine and come on in. You’ll find books and videos with sewing projects of all kinds here at the Library.