With interest in crafts skyrocketing worldwide, more people than ever want to learn to sew their own clothes. The good news? Learning how to make your own clothes isn’t as difficult as you might think. Sewing takes practice, but it’s easy to master. With a few simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a creative, handmade wardrobe.
Are you ready to learn how to sew your own clothes? Keep reading to learn the basics that will get you started on your sewing journey.
1. Gather Your Materials
The first step in any “how to sew your own clothes” guide is assembling your materials. You’ll be starting with simple patterns that don’t require much equipment. However, you’ll need the basic supplies to get started, including:
- A sewing machine
- Straight pins
- Measuring tape
- Fabric scissors
- Clothing iron
Most of these supplies are inexpensive (and you may already have them lying around). However, sewing machines can be costly. If you don’t have one, try borrowing one from a friend for a weekend before you purchase your own.
2. Find a Pattern Company You Love
In yesteryear, there were only four major pattern companies: Butterick, Simplicity, McCall’s, and Vogue. The “Big Four” are still around, but many smaller companies are popping up as well.
These independent pattern houses offer some unique and unusual designs.
When it comes to sewing your own clothes, pattern companies are similar to designers. They produce clothing patterns with a signature style. Browse some up-and-coming pattern companies to find one you love, such as:
- Sew House Seven
- Merchant & Mills
- The Assembly Line
- Deer & Doe
- Made by Rae
- Closet Core
- The Fold Line
With so many indie pattern companies to choose from, you won’t be stuck with generic clothing patterns. Whatever your style is, you’ll find a pattern house that resonates with it.
3. Stock Up On Quality Fabric
We get it: the price tag on budget fabrics is tempting. However, buying low-quality fabrics is a mistake that you’ll only make once. Poor quality fabrics make poor quality clothes. If you want your handmade clothes to look fabulous, find a place to source great fabrics.
The good news is that in the internet era, you can find all the fabrics you could ever want online, and at great prices. Find a go-to retailer to buy fabric wholesale online.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes
Sewing takes practice. Your first attempts will not be perfect. Start with a simple pattern that lets you practice the basics, like sewing hems and cutting out pattern pieces. Pajama pants are a good first project — they have lots of straight lines to sew and they don’t have to fit perfectly. Best of all, no one will see your mistakes when you wear them to bed.
As you move on to more ambitious projects, first sew the pattern in scrap fabric. This is called making a muslin, and it allows you to make all your mistakes on throwaway fabric before you use your good fabric.
Can You Really Make Your Own Clothes?
Yes, you can! Sewing is not as difficult as it seems. With a little bit of practice (and these tips), you’ll be able to make your own clothes exactly how you like them.
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Also read: 12 Black-Owned Clothing Brands You Did Not Know About
