It seems that it is impossible to learn how to sew beautiful things on a machine without taking special courses. We hasten to dispel this myth. It is not only possible to learn, but also necessary. Especially if the machine has been standing for a long time and is waiting for its finest hour.
Preparing to sew
Cars are different. For example, electronic and mechanical. It is much easier to sew on the first one, especially if the model is modern. Mechanical ones are much simpler, but sewing on them requires some skill.
In addition, machines differ in the type of bobbin threading - there is front and top, as well as in the maximum stitch length (can be 5 mm, 9 mm, but it is better to choose 7 mm - the standard option, ideal for beginners).
When the machine is purchased, you can prepare for work:
- Place the device on a table with a flat surface. It is important that the machine does not wobble from side to side while working, and that the seamstress sits comfortably.
- If the machine is electronic, it must be plugged into the network.
- Now it's time for the threads.You need good, strong threads that will not break during work. For example, a good option is threads made of nylon or polyester. You need to place the reel on the spool pin.
- Next, you should set the foot to the working position. To do this, lift it up.
- Pass the thread through the thread guide so that it does not “walk” while sewing. Then lower it down, pass it around the special discs and pull it to the next thread guide.
- After this, the thread must be threaded through the needle and pulled through the foot (not forgetting to raise the sticky lifting lever).
- The last step is to pull the thread about 5 cm away from you.
Important! Before work, check the serviceability of all parts, especially the needle and presser foot. Try making two or three test lines.
Typical beginner mistakes
No one gets everything perfect the first time. This is an axiom, and it is stupid not to recognize it. But the number of errors can be reduced if you learn about the most common ones in advance.
These include:
- The choice for the first sewing of complex materials. Start with calico, cotton or jersey.
- Cut without pre-decatation or wet-steam treatment.
- Failure to comply with the direction of the lobar thread. Of course, there are things that need to be sewn on the bias. But at first it is better to choose simple models and sew in the direction of the grain thread.
- Selection of threads, needles and accessories by eye. So you can miss the size or color.
- Sewing without a layout. Many people begin to cut and sew a product immediately from the material that is intended for it. If the item is not complicated or a very experienced seamstress took on the job, this is possible. In all other cases, it is recommended to first sew a design from simple fabric, and then start working with the main material.This way you can see individual mistakes made during cutting, or change some details without spoiling anything.
- Small allowances. It is better if they are at least 3-4 cm. This way you can correct mistakes without losing quality (for example, if the stitching turned out to be uneven and the sewing had to be unraveled).
- Sew without embarrassment. Many people neglect this boring process, but in vain. You can sew a product with pins if you are an experienced craftswoman who has sewn many different things. Otherwise, sewing without basting runs the risk of ruining the material with crooked stitches, unnecessary folds and incorrectly folded parts.
- Sewing without fitting. If you are not sewing a potholder for the kitchen, but a more serious item, fitting is necessary. The more often the better. This way you can notice errors in time and correct them.
Useful tips
The main rule of any sewing is to take your time. Vanity and the desire to do it as quickly as possible do not lead to a good result. Approach the process creatively, then the appropriate mood will appear, and sewing will bring pleasure.
Every business has its own secrets. In machine sewing too. For example, you should always buy fabric with a reserve. It’s not worth taking an extra two meters, but 50 cm is enough. This is important for beginners who make mistakes during the cutting process. It's a shame when the product is almost ready, but there is not enough fabric for the pockets.
The simpler the model, the better for a beginner. Everyone wants to sew complex things from fashion magazines. But you won't be able to do this from scratch. It’s better to experiment with something simple: sew an apron, nightgown or circle skirt from chintz. Only after such rehearsals can you move on to complex work.
If the machine is new, you need to get to know it. At least read the instructions and do a few lines in test mode.
Any sewing is work.Yes, pleasant, but requiring patience. Mistakes and failures in the learning process are inevitable, but this does not mean that you need to give up your hobby. Try it! The one who walks will master the road.