Time to Use Your Skills!

Now that we've gone over most of the bare basics of sewing, it's time to briefly go over step by step what you should be doing when starting a sewing project! Right now we're just going over the basics of sewing 2 pieces of fabric together, this is a great starting point for sunglasses cases, perfect for the summertime!

Other projects might require more steps but will typically always refer back to these steps. Remember, you need to know the basics before moving on to more advanced techniques and projects! Lets begin!

Step 1: Iron all your fabric materials to get out the wrinkles so that you're measurements are precise. A simple step to make your project come out awesome!

Step 2: Measure twice, cut once. Know your measurements, make sure you're leaving extra fabric for your inseams. Double and triple check your measurements before you cut so you don't have to re-cut your fabric. Use your marking pencil to help guide you. Feel free to use a pattern or make your own to use and re-use.

Step 3: It's time to cut your fabric. Remember, if you want to ensure your fabric won't fray so easily, use your pinking shears to cut. Cut slow and make sure to be following your lines. It's ok if you cut a little crooked, you can fix it when you sew. But keep in mind you still want to try to be as straight as you can!

Step 4: Take your fabric and your lining, put them right sides together. Start pinning your two pieces together, place your pins perpendicular to your fabric, your machine will sew right over them. 

Step 5: Lets sew! Turn on your machine and begin sewing around your edges, remember to go slow since there's no rush!  Make sure you leave an open hole one one side so you can flip your project inside out. When you're done, tie up your threads and turn your project inside out so that the right sides of your fabric are now facing outward. 

Step 6: Pin your open hole and carefully sew it shut. Continue finishing up your project, you might need to add buttons, zippers, snaps, etc. For a sunglasses case you'll then have to fold your fabric in half (right sides facing inward), sew them together leaving your top hole completely open and un-sewn. Lastly, flip it so that the right sides are outward and you're done!

Step 7: You should be done now! Depending on what type of fabric you're using, you might need to iron it once more to get it to look as crisp as you want! Use it, love it, be proud of it!

Now that you know how to sew a basic project, give it a try. You might need to tweak some steps to what feels most comfortable to you, and that's ok! These steps are what I have found work best for me, and my style. I want everybody to love sewing and crafting so try it out and make it your own! 

Stay tuned for more sewing posts, we'll go over how to perfect button holes, zippers and snaps. There will be more about making pockets, adding handles, and so much more!