Hopefully you had time over the weekend to spiff up your sewing room. My Craftsy class “Sew Confident: Essential Techniques for Beginners” has officially launched and we are already just shy of 500 students. Very Exciting!
CONGRATULATIONS!
First things first, congratulations to Tracey McKoy from Baltimore, Maryland. Tracey was last weeks lucky winner and has already joined us in the Craftsy classroom. Guess what else I found out? She enjoys fishing! Good thing Craftsy drew her name or you might think I was swayed 🙂
Let’s Giveaway Another Class!
There was such a HUGE response to the class giveaway, I am going to giveaway another Sew Confident Craftsy class! To enter this time, simply leave a comment below telling me why you would love to win this class, joining students from all over the world – 1 random winner will be drawn Friday at midnight, EST … Good Luck! 🙂
Wondering what’s covered in the class? Here is a link to the trailer video and as promised a SPECIAL 50% DISCOUNT if you would like to join us today.
Beginners Guide to Fashion Sewing
Let’s get started! In case you missed last week’s message, the series for beginner sewing starts now.
Part 1. Choosing a Pattern
What’s the big deal about finding a pattern anyway? Scan the pattern books, find a cute cover photos, and you are ready for sewing success, right?
If only we can all be so fortunate, but in most cases the scenario pans out a little differently. I recall sewing my first pair of pants. The pattern cover showed a tall, elegant model sporting a flowing pair of front pleated pants. That was exactly what I wanted.
I cut out my size (at least I thought that was my size) and the end results more resembled MC Hammer pants: the crotch was down to my knees and the cheap polyester fabric was a puckered mess. I wish I had kept them so I could give you the laugh of your life, but here is a close second:
They ended up in the trash, I was so disgusted! All those hours L This image flashes in front of my eyes when I hear so many tell me they don’t sew clothes because the patterns don’t fit.
Choose A Simple Pattern
For a beginner sewer, the ideal pattern to start with is something easy, for example this fringe skirt …
A skirt pattern is ideal, a tailored jacket is not. A simple sheath dress is a great choice, a color-blocked princess seam dress is not. Many patterns will tell you if the pattern is EASY
The good news is that through time you will master the fitting and sewing skills to make any garment, but to start, keep it simple J
Fashion Flat Sketches
Another way to determine if the pattern is ideal for you, look for the flat sketch. Here is a flat sketch of the my Fringe Skirt Pattern which shows 2 side seams, a center back seam, and a waistband.
Flat sketches are used in the fashion industry and often overlooked on the home sewing side. This simple black and white sketch shows how many seams are in the garment, where the seams are located, along with other design details such as buttons, belts, pockets, topstitching, etc.. This sketch will be your guide to finding the perfect pattern for your skill level.
Every pattern should have a fashion flat sketch either on their website, the back of the pattern envelope, or in the pattern instructional booklet. Here is another example:
Check out some of your favorite styles and see if the information you find in the flat sketch will cater to your sewing skills. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t jump in and take a chance with a more advanced pattern, but I compare this to my cooking (which is worse than terrible!) Why, because I am an artist and I always choose the more beautifully photographed meals which typically include ingredients I have never heard of, the use of pans I don’t have, and techniques like sauté that only mean “burn” in my book. See the correlation. My goal is to help you become the best fashion sewer ever and it starts with simple J – next week we will weed through the many pattern companies and designers.
Don’t forget to leave a comment below in order to enter to win my Craftsy Class “Sew Confident: Essential Techniques for Beginners” (The winner will be announced in Saturday’s blog post What’s new on the sewing table this week?)
Cheers and Good Luck!
And the Winner is Stephanie Troemel! Thanks for all the comments everyone 🙂
I would love to win a class from Angela. Have been sewing for a long time and love listening to you explain things as it always shows me a simpler way to look at the issues.
Hi,I check your blog named “Choosing Easy Sewing Patterns for Beginner Sewing Success! – Angela Wolf” like every week.Your humoristic style is witty, keep it up! And you can look our website about تحميل اغانى.
Je penche aussi pour la deuxième solution… d’abord le glacon puis l&;a8uoresu&#q230; mais c’est l’attente qui est difficile à chaque fois…
I would like to win because I have sewn for years, but when I watch Miss Angela I always learn so much. I try never to miss It’s “Sew Easy” when I know you will be there with our Jacket or the little Black Dress.
Right now I’m sewing on a jumpsuit for a friend. It is velour and I’m wondering if I should use a knit ironon lining. What do you think?
A good teacher makes all the difference in learning any new craft. I would like to win this class because I want to become a much more confident sewer. I want my garments to look professionally made, okay, at least not homemade! Thanks!
There’s always that one technique that stumps me in sewing a complete garment…. the neck binding, the zipper, the buttonhole, etc. The instructor that I will have followed always makes it look so simple. I get so discouraged and don’t want to sew anymore, but I keep getting back on that horse and trying it again. But it keeps me from advancing past beginner! Help!
Hi Angela
and thank you for this giveaway! I would love to win this as money has become tight but I really need to learn about patterns and techniques of what to do and what not to do and just make for easier sewing thank you so much!
I would love to wi this class. I have a couple of your classes already and I really enjoyed them. I love your style!
Congratulations to Stephanie Troemel! Winner of my new Craftsy Class Sew Confidence 🙂
I’d love to win your sewing course Angela. I have the fabrics, I have the patterns, I just need the confidence to give me a push. I’m working through your ready to wear course, but another will do no harm at all! Looking forward to reading your blog.
I save all your TV episodes on my DVR, and my kids complain that I am hogging the recording time! I just can’t bear to delete them because I refer back to them often. You are my favorite teacher.
Winning your craftsy class would mean I can watch your lessons over and over on my computer, instead of the TV. My kids will thank you!! Haha!
I would love to win this as I’d love to teach my daughter how to sew and this would definitely be of great help !!!! I, too, have made the dreaded mistake in early years of not measuring myself first and relying on the size of the clothes I wore……..made a beautiful boned, strapless, royal blue dress……………….could have cried when I tried it on………..!!!!!
Hi Angela! Thanks for the chance to win this class. I would live to win and here are a few reasons why.
1) . I have been dreaming of sewing for myself for many years…since I was a little girl and my grandmother sewed for me dresses, coats and even had a lingerie business. Before my Alzheimers got in the way, my grandma handed me a few pairs of lingerie that were not quite complete and she challenged me to complete them for myself…..
2). I have purchased and watched several sewing classes, including your fitting classes and serger classes but have yet to actually sew anything. I think the title of this class says it all for me…..I need confidence enough to to help me start and finish SOMETHING, LOL.
3). Now I’m a Mom of five. My daughter, who turned 4 a couple of days ago watches me….she watches all of my sewing lessons…she helps me amass fabric and patterns ( I have quite a bit now). I have even purchased for her a little pink machine. But we sew NOTHING….
Please pick me and I will jump in with both feet!
Thanks Mimi
I’d like to win the class as button placements puzzle me.
Winning this class would help me develop my basic skills to produce something wearable! I love your classes – currently watching and pondering making myself a pair of jeans. Perhaps beyond my skill level at the moment but love your teaching style.
I’d love to win the class because I could use a good foundation in my sewing. I’ve sewn for a while but I still run into things I don’t understand or forgot to do. Plus I love your classes 🙂
If love this class to make sure my skills have a sound foundation. I’ve sewn for a while but I’m still running into things I don’t understand or forgot to do, so I’d love to feel more confident in my knowledge 🙂 Plus I love all your classes!
I grew up sewing but ‘life’ happened. Now, 24 years later I’m a grandma with grandkids and a study of fabric having to relearn much of what I’ve forgotten.
Hi Angela, I clicked through to your ruched shirt pattern, watched your ruching video, and I have also heard you talk about using twill tape. Would you please tell us what kind you use and where you buy it? I scoured Joann’s already and did not find any in my store. I checked on Wawak.com and there are so many choices! Please offer some guidance because I would love to buy some and begin using it with knits.
Thanks for everything!! You are my favorite teacher/blogger!
I have all the machines in place, just no experience. Talk about optimism. Ready, wiling, and able. Good luck to all the entries!
I have taken some of your other classes and love your teaching style. I have been trying to teach myself garment sewing and can put the garment together but it doesn’t quite fit right so would love to learn more basics. Thanks!
I LOVE your classes! The one I took on serging took me from cowering in the corner afraid of touching my machine for fear of it exploding to being a whizz at changing settings and feet! I love it!!!!! I also took your alterations class which helped me also. I would so LOVE to win another class with you!
Oh my goodness, who wouldn’t want to win. i remember learning knitting and crochet, and basic sewing (no patterns) from my grandmothers. It’s hard to find anyone today to teach any of those trades. I love just learning from your TV shows and blog. I’d love to be able to walk into a store and pick out a pattern that would work and not end up in the trash! Id love to win a free class.
Would love to win. I am a huge fan!
I would love to win a class for my daughter, if that’s possible. I’m a more advanced sewer, but she would like to learn more and having just had her first child and now at home, has more time for this.
Hello Angela,
Would love to win your “Sew Confident: Essential Techniques for Beginners” class on Craftsy because even though I am not a complete beginner, your teaching style, tips and tricks are absolutely phenomenal and I have no doubt I would learn plenty! Have just finished watching your Craftsy class “Tailoring Ready-to-Wear” to learn how to alter and repair clothing. Loved your tips on how to properly fit clothing and am considering taking the advanced class to learn even more fitting and alteration techniques. You are a wonderful teacher and an inspiration to those of us from the BH/SJ area with a passion for sewing and fishing!
Hi Angela, I would love to win this class because I love your teaching style. You make everything seem so easy and I’m learning so much from your other classes on Craftsy. Being self taught and a beginner, these online resources are great and I’m convinced that your new class is awesome, just like the others. Also, the idea with the blog posts series accompanying this class is amazing! Keep them coming!
I would love to win this class as I am an apparel decorator by trade (embroidery, printed garments, etc) but I cannot sew garments from scratch. Everybody thinks if you can use a needle and thread, that you can also make clothes. Well, I can’t! I have tried but they never fit & just look terrible. Unfortunately skirts do not flatter my body type, and pants and jackets are more difficult. 🙁
I would love to win this to re-ignite my passion for making clothes !
I really enjoyed the class “Sew with your serger”. I learned so much and am looking forward to learning essential techniques!
Just learned how to use those flat drawings to better understand my sewing plan! Woohoo! I can only imagine what I would learn in a full class!
I would love to win this class because I want to become a fashion designer. I lack efficiency and confidence in my sewing, and I think you could really help me!
Every bit of know,edge helps us perfect this art of sewing…
I’d like to take this class because if I could wear something that I sewed myself and not be embarrassed it would be lovely! And a free class would make it even better!
I have owned a sewing machine for years but used it to hem or for repairs. I am now retired and have time to sew, I would like to learn everything I can to help me make clothes that do not look homemade. I have 6 grandchildren that would love for me to be able to sew for them.
Your grandchildren will love your sewing 🙂 Good Luck!
Love sewing and learning new techniques. Would love to learn what you are teaching if it as good as the serger classes it will be really fun and informative.
Angela,
I would really love to win this free course because there are so many courses I would love to try, however, I just can’t afford them all. Free is great!!!
Since this drawing it is random so I don’t have to worry about ties with so many other women in the same boat. Ha Ha Hee Hee
P.S. I love your classes and how you teach. Excellent work.
I’d love to win because I think I could learn some new things even tho I’m not a true beginner.
I would greatly appreciate the Blessing of winning this class
I am teaching myself to sew, so this class would be so helpful for me. I have another of your Craftsy classes on altering clothes, and have been able to successfully hem several pairs of pants. Thanks for the chance to win this one!
Angela, Thanks so much for your generosity! I have not made garments for a number of years now and need to get back into it as my granddaughter is getting to the age where I would love to sew for her.
Perfect timing then, good luck! 😉
Even though I am a veteran seamstress I always like to see how someone else sews and the techniques they use. I especially enjoy watching you on It’s Sew Easy so would love to partake in your latest class! Good luck everyone 🙂
Being mostly self taught it would be good to get another perspective in sewing. I think getting back into sewing after being away for the greater part of thirteen years, it would be a good refresher for me.
I’d like to win your class because I have a horrible time with a small waist and larger hips fitting jeans and pants. Loved your jeans class but I still haven’t mustered courage to plunge in. …mostly because of zippers. I sewed for my children years ago but every time I made something for myself, it looked homemade and I din’t want to wear it. Help!
I would love to learn to make clothes on my serger, rather than just using it for cleaning up seams……….:) Karen Choat
I would love to win the class because I have just returned to sewing. I really, really need help! Maggie
Good Luck Maggie 🙂
I would really enjoy winning this class. I am self-taught and feel I may have missed some things that could really help me along the way.
Good Luck Debra 🙂
I would love to win your new class Angela. I’ve taken classes from you and each one I learn so many new things! Love your teaching style and your great personality.
Thanks so much Miriam 🙂 Good luck!
I would love to win your class, currently enjoying your overlocker course and it’s great so would love to learn more.
Hi Jo, thanks for taking my serging class 🙂 Good Luck!
I would love to win this class for so many reasons. First of all, Angela is the best teacher I have ever had – she does a tremendous job explaining techniques to her students. She makes you feel like you can master what she is doing and is very down to earth in her approach.
Also, with 15 children there isn’t much time to learn on your own – I need the facts quickly and she delivers!
I feel like my learning is comparable to swiss cheese – I have some knowledge but there are gaps that still need to be filled in. I would love to be able to be confident in my sewing skills.
Thanks for offering this opportunity!
Angela
Hi Angela, thanks so much! At least I know that someone doesn’t mind that fact I talk a bit fast LOL! Good luck 🙂
I would definitely love to win Angela’s new Sew Confident class. I’m a total beginner and am a little intimidated to start sewing. I know this is crazy, but I went out and bought a sewing machine a few months ago and still have not gotten the courage to start sewing something. I bought patterns and fabric but am so scared to ruin it that I haven’t even started yet. So I’m hoping the Sew Confident class will help me get started on this sewing journey. Thanks Angela for all your sewing tips and classes that you provide for the beginning and advanced sewist!
Roxanne, We have got to get you cutting your fabric 🙂 Congrat’s on your new sewing machine, what did you get?
I always enjoy learning new techniques to improve my sewing.
Good Luck Terri 🙂
I enjoy all of your classes. Your classes are the best of all.
Hi Ann, your awesome! thanks and good luck 🙂
Any of your classes are excellent and I completley enjoy. Ann High From: Angela Wolf To: annhigh41@yahoo.com Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2015 9:54 AM Subject: [New post] Choosing Easy Sewing Patterns for Beginner Sewing Success! #yiv2736127702 a:hover {color:red;}#yiv2736127702 a {text-decoration:none;color:#0088cc;}#yiv2736127702 a.yiv2736127702primaryactionlink:link, #yiv2736127702 a.yiv2736127702primaryactionlink:visited {background-color:#2585B2;color:#fff;}#yiv2736127702 a.yiv2736127702primaryactionlink:hover, #yiv2736127702 a.yiv2736127702primaryactionlink:active {background-color:#11729E;color:#fff;}#yiv2736127702 WordPress.com | Angela Wolf posted: “Hopefully you had time over the weekend to spiff up your sewing room. My Craftsy class “Sew Confident: Essential Techniques for Beginners” has officially launched and we are already just shy of 500 students. Very Exciting!CONGRATULATIONS!First thing” | |
I always learn something from Angela and Craftsy — I’m a big fan of both! Keep the information flowing!
thanks Susan 🙂 Good luck!
Congratulations, Angela! I love your classes! Keep making them and I will keep buying them. I plan to buy this class for people as gifts when they are learning to sew. Thanks!
thanks so much! What a great idea for a gift – good luck 🙂
Hi Angela,
I would love to win this class because I have been sewing for a super long time (since I was 9 self taught watching my mother) I have sewn for my kids and my grands and am now 66 years old and could always use a refresher on the basics.
Margaret, how wonderful to have sewn for you kids and grandkids! Those are priceless memories for all 🙂 Good Luck!
I would love to win this class for my three DD ages 6,8, and 10. They love Craftsy and your jean class! This would help them learn the basics, and we all know that whatever mom says is not the same as another adult 🙂
Hi Kimber, So thrilled to hear you all watch the sewing jeans class 🙂 Good luck!
I would love to win a class to kick start my garment sewing. I used to do lots years ago but have not touched this side of my crafting for a long time. Thanks for the chance. sru60@aol.com
Sandra, I guarantee what I have coming in the blog will jumpstart your garment sewing 🙂 Good luck!
I would love to win a class because you are the best instructor I have seen for online classes. Sewing is a hobby that relaxes me when my schedule is ridiculous (I work full time and am working on a master’s degree). So any excuse to spend a little more time with my sewing machine is a good one!!
Hi Stephanie, Just thinking about getting a masters makes me want to sew LOL! Good luck 🙂
I love to sew! I’ve learned so much taking Craftsy classes but I really would like to take a beginners class to learn basics and have a great foundation. I’ve taken and enjoyed your other classes on Craftsy-even breaking out my serger! I’ve learned so much-thanks!
Cassie, thanks for joining my other classes and Good Luck! 🙂
I would love to win this class. I SO lack confidence in my sewing skills. And I love the way you teach, Angela. It’s so clear and you make it look so easy. I know this will be a great class.
I’d love to win because it’s hard for me to go out to classes and I love to learn. After an accident I’m learning to do all kinds of things over-and left-handed. Thanks!
I started sewing again recently… I find a pattern and the perfect fabric, but stall out before cutting because once you cut there’s no changing it… Then finally take the plunge. I usually ALMOST really like it but there’s always a goofy fitting issue… No matter how well I think it thru and try to adjust things! I enjoyed taking your serving class on Craftsy. I would enjoy a learn with another,
Your Altering Ready to Wear class was my first Craftsy class. It inspired me to purchase two Craftsy kits to make my first “from scratch” garments. I recently purchased a new sewing machine and I’m ready to try some new challenges. Thanks for encouraging me to pursue a new creative avenue.
Because I need to learn about the sewing!!!
I always welcome an opportunity to learn more about sewing! Love your classes! Love your style!
I am not a beginner by any means, BUT I always enjoy watching and listening to you talk/teach sewing because I always have room to grow in this fabulous art…..sewing beautiful and fun clothing.
HI Angela! I would love to win this class so that I can pursue my newly found passion. I started sewing last year at 47 years of age and need to go back to the basics from time to time in order to advance in technique.
You are never too old to learn!
Just what I need a basic course on sewing to improve my confidence.
I’m basically a self taught sewer. I’ve sewed for my children years ago and I’m thankful I never needed to make changes to the patterns. I’ve had cancer twice (mastectomy) and it has changed my body. I have a hard time finding tops to fit me. I’ve gained weight because the second time I got it the chemo put me into a change of life. No matter how hard I try to loose weight I can’t lose a ounce. While my hips grow my chest does not and that is where the problem lies. I do not know how to alter patterns so my chest and hips match. Right now things are a little tight and winning this class would be great. I watch you all the time and know you are a expert seamstress.
I want to win because I am a beginner and I just bought my very first serger. I want to learn how to make my own clothes for economic reasons as well as for the pure joy of it. I know that at my age, 49, I’m pretty old to be considered a beginner but better late than never!
You are never too late 🙂 🙂 Good Luck!
I would love to win the class. I own other classes of Angela’s I have learned so much from her and know I will learn more.
Thanks Wanda 🙂 Good Luck!