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Maggie Whitley

joy in motherhood, homemaking, faith & simple living

You are here: Home / inspiration / for fun / {Are you new to sewing? Here are some tips.}

{Are you new to sewing? Here are some tips.}

February 24, 2011 · 25 Comments
Filed Under: for fun, sewing

—I wrote this post a few days ago and it originally published on Muthering Height’s blog, but I wanted to share it here as well since it’s FULL of info & tips!—

Sewing is something that I not only constantly learn from, but something that constantly satisfies me. I love that it involves as much color as I want it to, that I’m able to feed my organized-self, that it provides a sense of accomplishment. There are always new techniques or tools or books to read. It’s a wonderful trade :] In November 2008 I taught myself how to sew, and by March I was selling my products through Etsy. Over the 2 years I’ve learned it’s OK to modify a technique as long as it doesn’t disrupt the quality of the end result. For example, I don’t use a zipper foot when sewing a zipper, nor do I use matching thread when I’m sewing a hidden seam.

Below are four different groupings of sewing tips. These tips are things I currently use while sewing, to help me organize my studio, or have used in the past.

Before you read my tips… Find a teaching method that works well with your learning style. If you’re a visual learning {my hand is raised}, use YouTube for video tutorials. If you’re not sure if a sewing tutorial book will be “the one” for you, visit the library & check a few out before purchasing. Lastly, remember to take breaks when sewing. Like, take an entire day off. Some times TIME is the best cure for frustration.

Good luck!
xoxo

Sewing shortcuts I couldn’t live without:
1. wind multiple bobbins at a time so you aren’t winding every time you run out
2. keep a basket of commonly-used items nearby. Inside mine is thread, scissors, a brush for removing lint, Q-tips (also for removing lint), GUSSY SEWS tags, small scraps to sew on when I adjust tension/change the stitch/etc.
3. dust/wipe your workspace, and dust it often. The less dust bunnies/threads you have on your table the less you have to pick them off your fabric
4. keep all accessories (basket, push pins & pin cushion, scissors) to the right of your machine
5. if you’re sewing multiple items, create your own production line {cut like items, iron like items, sew based on the same thread color}

5 ways to save on space:
1. use book shelves that are tall & wide
2. use a dresser (for hidden storage!)
3. use the space underneath work tables
4. re-organize your closet, placing items in order of most-frequent to less-frequent
5. create simplicity throughout your studio by creating clusters of art on your wall {as opposed to on a shelf}

Simple ways to store materials
1. Keep like things together, and keep those things organized
* fabric, zippers, shipping materials, glue sticks, thread, etc. — they ALL have their own hang-out place in a drawer or basket
2. Ikea has some fabulous storage options {I use a 3-wire drawer wheeled cart for fabric and notions}
* if you fold your fabric nicely and use pretty containers to stay organized, having see-through storage containers can be a fun way to organize {and decorate} your studio
3. Add hooks to the inside of a closet, or on a wall, to store extra materials
* how cute would fancy hangers be on the wall? drape fabric over one bar… sooo pretty!
4. Don’t be afraid to use what you already have
* remember the dresser in my studio? it’s so perfect for storing fabric and zippers, or whatever you buy in bulk

My top 5 favorite sewing “items”:
1. a cute pin cushion
2. a cute ironing board cover
3. a big rotary mat {for cutting fabric}
4. this book: Bend-the-rules Sewing
5. a good iron {with a stainless steel soleplate}

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25 Comments
Filed Under: for fun, sewing

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Comments

  1. Rosi says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:42 pm

    Great tips! I will definitely keep these in mind when sewing!

    Reply
  2. Mindy says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:47 pm

    Thanks for the great tips!!! I have tried my hand at sewing recently and need all the advice I can get. :) I definitely need a cute pincushion and more storage! I am using a dresser right now too.

    Reply
  3. Piper says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:48 pm

    Wonderful tips. I love that you don’t use a zipper foot. I don’t either! I told my nana that the other day and I think I might have offended her, lol.

    Reply
    • Gussy says

      February 24, 2011 at 10:25 pm

      aww — I’m sure she’s just happy you’re sewing :]

      Reply
  4. CARRIE L says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:49 pm

    Thank you for the great tips! I have half of your must have items already, i just need to actually use them. (maybe if i had a “spot” for them all i would) Oh & i love your necklace that you are wearing and your pin cushion….so cute!

    Reply
    • Gussy says

      February 24, 2011 at 10:25 pm

      the necklace is Allora Handmade {www.allorahandmade.com} ♥

      Reply
  5. sarah @ Handbags*N*Pigtails says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:50 pm

    I love how you taught yourself to sew. I basically did the same thing. Id never sewn anything, except a set of Valentine Skirts for my girls, before I started making bags. I had a passion for learning it, I followed my dream and less than a handful of years later, here I am. God is good:) Have a great weekend Gussy!
    XO,
    Sarah

    Reply
  6. katy reitz (lil' alice) says

    February 24, 2011 at 7:51 pm

    great tips, thank you so much! great pictures too!

    Reply
  7. Kim (Lucy Jane studio) says

    February 24, 2011 at 8:24 pm

    I love the pin cushion – too cute! I have my cute pin cushions and my magnet one for when I accidentally drop a few…oops! I decided today that I need to make myself a craft apron. I’m always misplacing my scissors under some random piece of fabric.

    You do such a great job on your blog of sharing your techniques. Thanks!

    Reply
  8. Dallas says

    February 24, 2011 at 8:31 pm

    I think we have the same sewing machine gussy! You got yours from your mother in law…right?? I got mine from my mom, and she got it as a present at her wedding over 25 years ago! Still works like a charm and to be honest I’m kind of scared to get a new one!

    Reply
    • Gussy says

      February 24, 2011 at 10:26 pm

      I did!!! It’s amazing — it’s perfect :]

      Reply
  9. hiyaluv says

    February 24, 2011 at 8:37 pm

    i so prefer not to use a zipper foot. it is so much easier:) (wink-as you would say! ha:)
    gina

    Reply
  10. Julie {Angry Julie Monday} says

    February 24, 2011 at 8:45 pm

    Great post!!! I want to learn how to sew soooo bad!! I need lots of mentors…oh and a sewing machine.

    Reply
  11. Mayya @ Sew Chic and Unique says

    February 24, 2011 at 10:31 pm

    Love love this post thank for sharing your tips Maggie you are the best :)

    Will be linking ;-)

    Reply
  12. melissa stover says

    February 24, 2011 at 10:36 pm

    i need to make up with my sewing machine.

    Reply
  13. Hannah @ Peggy Ann Design says

    February 25, 2011 at 12:02 am

    Love this list! One of my favorite storage solutions is one of those 24 pocket over-the-door shoe holders. I had it left over from college & when i started sewing i drug it back out. it hangs on the inside of my closet door in my sewing room & holds all kinds of stuff like zippers, lace, ribbon, spare buttons, etc (all color coordinated, of course!)

    Reply
  14. resourceful red says

    February 25, 2011 at 7:32 am

    thanks so much for sharing!! i am trying to get into sewing. i bought a machine last spring and will finally have a room to sew in now that we aremoving.
    your items are adorable and i would love to be able to sew 1/2 as well as you one day!!

    Reply
  15. Amanda W. says

    February 25, 2011 at 3:12 pm

    I wish I had a studio. Right now my sewing is hard because we live in a small apartment. I hope this summer I get around to doing more sewing :)

    Reply
  16. Sara says

    February 25, 2011 at 8:12 pm

    Thank you for the great tips! I just finished my first sewing project and I think it turned out okay so I’m looking forward to my next project. Space is at a minimum for me too so I’ll definitely buy myself some tall and wide bookcases.

    Right now I’m using our third bedroom as an office/craft room and we have a small closet with those ugly faux wood panel metal sliding doors. The problem is that a bulkhead or something is built in to the floor so it’s not a full closet. I’m wondering it’s worth taking down the doors and trying to fit in some additional shelving. Thoughts?

    Reply
  17. Deanna says

    February 25, 2011 at 11:40 pm

    Great tips! I have way too much stuff and it resists every attempt I make at organizing it…but this will help me make a good sized dent in it : )

    Reply
  18. Laurie says

    February 28, 2011 at 9:20 pm

    Maggie these are such a great tips. I especially love the storage solutions! You’re darling.

    Reply
  19. Krista @ While He Was Napping says

    March 1, 2011 at 2:03 am

    These are great! The storage solutions are wonderful. Exactly what I need! And rotary cutters, LIFESAVER! Great post!

    Reply
  20. to sew with love says

    March 1, 2011 at 7:36 pm

    wow! great tips! i don’t use zipper foot either… i am just too lazy to change it ^^)

    Reply
  21. Jamie Pickle says

    March 15, 2011 at 11:40 am

    Hi there. I am new to sewing (my sis and I are learning via YouTube tutorials). Just found your blog, very cute!!

    Reply
  22. Andrea says

    December 2, 2011 at 9:09 pm

    I have the same machine too! It works perfectly. I bought it when I was 18, 30 years ago. I was working at Sears and got an employee discount but it still cost $180 (a fortune back then). It was the first thing I ever bought on credit! Whenever I think about buying a new one, I tap on the body of the newer machines (all plastic) and decide to stick with my heavy metal dependable Kenmore!

    Reply

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ABOUT MAGGIE WHITLEY DESIGNS:
Maggie Whitley weaves her writings around joy in motherhood, homemaking, faith, and simple living. She homeschools her children, enjoys a quiet room while reading, and roars with laughter over the challenges & delights of motherhood. Maggie and her husband, along with their four young children, live in metro-Detroit. She has been writing online since 2008.
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JOY in motherhood & homemaking 🧺🌿💓✨

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Reflecting on this today 💓🕊 When I reflect o Reflecting on this today 💓🕊 When I reflect on the moments I’ve felt my mind spinning, my emotions swirly, it’s almost always when I’m not feasting on the word of God. Not that reading scripture is the cure for anxiety —no! Rather, it’s hard to worry when we’re worshipping.
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A quiet night: the furnace is running, the tea is A quiet night: the furnace is running, the tea is hot, and the whisper of a page turning. ♨️☕️📖 // We are breaking from school this week, my plan is to read a lot, walk a lot, and rest a lot. How about you?

#mothersofinstagram #tea #winterreading #hygge
I fought every internal comment I could think of a I fought every internal comment I could think of and took my kiddos for a looooong walk today before dinner. ❄️✨ There’s just so much work required to raise children! I’m feeling like a tired lady. But sunshine & fresh air are good companions to keep around. 

We came home and I made “the best dinner ever”. Max specifically announced, “it’s so great you’re launching new meals to the world”. LOL— kids! 🤣👏🏻💓
How about a little Wednesday night introduction? 😘Social media sure has changed over the years and we don’t always SEE who we’re following or remember WHY we’re following certain accounts. 

So, hello! As you can gather, my name is Maggie ;) 

I started writing online (almost 13 years ago) to share the handmade products I was sewing. My shop was called Gussy Sews. ✂️👛I love the community that has grown from sewing & sharing online.

Let’s FFW to today: Zack and I live in Michigan and have four young children (2 boys & 2 girls). I slowly left the handmade industry and walked right into homemaking, homeschooling, and encouraging women through writing. 💕📝

Motherhood has been very hard on me. (And not just because of how close in age our four children are.) It’s been hard for me because I fought for years to accept that *it’s supposed to be hard*. 

I mean, how do you effectively teach another person to know and love the Lord? Bc that’s how I think of motherhood: a calling to nurture others by studying the One who nurtures me. So I gotta make the first move: study the Bible and seek Him first. As my friend Autumn reminded me, vulnerability births transformation. 

(I’ve had to be really vulnerable!)

So, yes motherhood has fully transformed me. But even more so, Christ has fully transformed me. My list of “all that He’s done for me” is off to a beautifully long start.

Something else I want you to know about me: I stalled for years before acknowledging I have anxiety and depression. It’s hard to talk about this because of course this isn’t forever “my hardship”, but rather because acknowledging this means to heal I have to work through some really difficult things. ✨

But my friend Jesus walks alongside me. He’s already done a mighty work in my heart, including helping me process my anger in healthier ways. I’ve also adopted a heart for sisterhood, mothering, and Titus 2 mentorship.

Sometimes our greatest losses are our greatest gains? That’s what I’m clinging to!

How about you? Tell me something about yourself so I can get to know you on a deeper heart level. 🖤🖤
How do you play in the winter? // We had a really How do you play in the winter? // We had a really great time visiting family in northern Michigan. On my blog I share a few ways we played outside, plus I describe a memorable childhood game ❄️☃️. Did you play it as a kiddo?
We had gotten a bit lazy with our rhythms: screens We had gotten a bit lazy with our rhythms: screens in the morning (HGTV), playtime before lessons, and not enough quiet time after lunch. This made for a really, ummm, unenjoyable learning experience. 

But today! Today we reset the rhythm, and we have had a much happier home & time learning together. 👏🏻
Visit my stories for a quick message from ME — t Visit my stories for a quick message from ME — think outside the box in terms of how you view the definition of “motherhood” 💓😘 (also: look at my little friend, she’s sooooo snuggly)
It’s another cold, winter day. ❄️Today I hop It’s another cold, winter day. ❄️Today I hope to bundle up for another family nature walk, knowing the fresh air sweeps out any & all frustration, inviting inspiration inside. ✨That’s something we all need more of.
seriously LOL: I’ve found the secret to calming seriously LOL: I’ve found the secret to calming the Laundry Beast (as a family of 6). Who wants the inside scoop? ✔️🧺👏🏻
Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomo Another batch of “fun mail” is headed out tomorrow :) small celebrations like this are very life giving! PS. thinking of starting a zoom book club — I need more sisterhood in my life. 👏🏻📖
The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are The house is quiet. The heat is on. The pages are turning. The tea is calm. 🖤☕️🧺📖
Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his ful Breakfast with Buzz! If only you could see his full costume and laser blaster and of course the Buzz action figure he flys around 🌟💚💙💨someone has discovered a superhero crush! #joyinmotherhood #slowmornings #surprisedbymotherhood // Landon @ 2.5yo
Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to Today on my blog I have a list of books I hope to read this year. Plus my reading goal for the year. And a few practicals ways I fit in reading as a mama of four young children & homeschooling them. Basically, all the good stuff ☺️💓📖 #maggiewhitleydotcom #readersofinstagram #read #readmorebooks
It was the perfect opportunity to rearrange the fu It was the perfect opportunity to rearrange the furniture as we took the tree down Tuesday midday. Def one of my fav things to do.🎄👋🏻 We made it through our first week back to school since mid-December! It was rough to begin but ended with high fives. ⭐️✏️This morning I zoomed with a mama friend and I’m impressed with the many topics we covered. Sisterhood is sooooo necessary! ☕️👩🏽‍🤝‍👩🏼

Just a few cheery memories from my week! How about you?
Book reading! One of my best “Maggie” activiti Book reading! One of my best “Maggie” activities. I finished my last book moments before 2020 ended, which brought my started list to a close. Small joys add up to big joys ;)

What are you reading this year? Currently?

How many books are you planning to read? What’s your goal?

I’ll share what’s on my list for 2021 soon as I received some nice titles at Christmas. 📖✨🤍
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