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Published:
November 13, 2024

Sewing For Dummies

Overview

Learn the basic skills and techniques you need for successful hand and machine sewing

Over the past ten years, interest in sewing has grown. If want to learn how to sew or to improve your skills, Sewing For Dummies is the book you need to get started. This complete guide to sewing basics teaches you basic hand stitches and sewing machine operation, with easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step illustrations. You'll work your way forward to develop the skills to create or repair clothing and furnishings that fit your personal style, your measurements, and your aesthetic. Find great patterns in stores and online, give thrift store finds new life, and learn about cool new fabrics and sewing trends. You'll also get an overview of common sewing mistakes and how to avoid them, so you can take up this relaxing, creative hobby with confidence. A full-color insert brings the text to life. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment you'll get when you use your new skills to create wonderful handmade pieces.

  • Learn hand and machine sewing skills, starting with the basics and working your way up
  • Choose the right sewing machine for your needs and follow step-by-step tutorials to master its use
  • Makes repairs and alterations to keep your wardrobe current
  • Learn about online sewing resources and get ideas for finding fabric and patterns

This Dummies guide will help anyone who wants to learn basic sewing skills or brush up on what they already know. Sew a button back on your jacket, make pillowcases from an old dress, alter that great vintage dress to fit like a glove, and complete any other sewing projects you can dream up.

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About The Author

Jan Saunders Maresh is a nationally recognized sewing authority, educator, and journalist. She has worked as the Education Director for the White Sewing Machine Company and the Director of Consumer Education for JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts. She’s the best-selling author of 19 books covering the many aspects of sewing and instruction.

Sample Chapters

sewing for dummies

CHEAT SHEET

When I was new to my career, there was information I wished I could get my hands on as I was learning more about the craft. (I’m talking about inside-the-industry information — way past what I learned in college). The information in this Cheat Sheet is what I was thrilled to learn (and have often forgotten until I was ready to put it in to practice).

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Articles from
the book

When shopping, you may find the fabric you’re looking for...and a whole lot more to inspire you. When you don’t have a particular pattern in mind but find fabric that would, for example, make a great pair of dress pants, you can use this guide to help you buy enough fabric when the creative mood strikes.Because fabric also comes in several widths, and your pattern envelope may only give you yardage requirements for two widths, you can refer to this guide to buy the correct amount for the width of the fabric.
Many people have an idea what their measurements are, but rather than assume you know, it's best to get an accurate measurement. Going to a tailor will give you more accurate measurements, but you can certainly get a close approximation handling the measuring tape yourself.The measurements you definitely need are your chest, waist, hips, and inseam.
If you use the wrong type of needle for your sewing machine and project, the results could be very bad indeed. Use this table to determine which needle is designed for use in your sewing machine and for your project. Needle Point Classification Needle Point Type and Use 15 x 1H (American); 130/705H (European)
When I was new to my career, there was information I wished I could get my hands on as I was learning more about the craft. (I’m talking about inside-the-industry information — way past what I learned in college). The information in this Cheat Sheet is what I was thrilled to learn (and have often forgotten until I was ready to put it in to practice).
For beginner sewers, pillow covers are some of the easiest, most affordable sewing projects that require the least amount of time and commitment. This table tells you how much fabric you need for typical pillow projects. Type of Pillow Dimensions (Length by Width) Amount of Fabric Needed for 1 Pillow Cover (U
When you want to sew clothing, you start with a pattern. Determining your pattern size can be a humbling experience because it requires you to measure your body, but it’s an essential step in making sure the finished garment fits properly. Here are some tips on taking accurate measurements so your project ends up the right size: Get someone else to take your measurements.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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