LEARN+DISCOVER

One of the most rewarding things you can do is learn how to sew. This might be for yourself, a family member or community group. It doesn’t have to be to make clothing, it could be to alter, repair or upcycle already existing garments and accessories.

Over the past 20 years, we have collectively taught 1,500+ students how to sew and build up their confidence on a sewing machine. The best way to do this is by borrowing or purchasing a basic sewing machine. It doesn’t need to be fancy, if it can do straight stitch, zig-zag and a basic buttonhole, it’s perfect!

Before launching into a sewing pattern, create yourself a template on basic stable woven fabric with straight, curvy and zig-zag lines (see below). Set the machine stitch length at 2.5 and start a journey of understanding how to control the machine.

To start - at the beginning of each stitch line, back-stitch or reverse 3-4 stitches to prevent your stitching from unraveling. Practice sewing following the lines to understand the speed of your machine, thread tension and how to control and maneuver the fabric. Practice this a couple of times to build your confidence and in no time you will be altering and sewing garments for yourself or friends and family.