15 Years of Sewing Advice in 60 Seconds
From a girl who published a book on sewing and gets offered $$$$ for her gowns :)
Magnetic pincushions are superior.
Sharp pins only, especially on delicate fabric.
Measure twice, cut once, and pay attention to the grainline- even a few threads off can affect how fabric hangs and throw off the balance of the entire garment.
You should be stabilizing necklines and armholes somehow using interfacing or stay tapes.
Staystitch curved edges immediately after cutting.
Use a fresh sewing needle every 3 to 4 hours of consecutive sewing.
Don’t use a universal needle, use one that is designated for the fabric type.
Only use good quality and fresh thread.
Don’t sew over pins.
Rethread the machine if something seems wrong.
Be precise with seam allowances- a little bit here and there will multiply across the entire garment.
Slip the layers of your neckline and armhole seams so the exterior can roll to the interior.
Trim, clip, press, and understitch your seams, in that order.
Clip on the diagonal to prevent seam allowances from fraying.
Your quality will improve just with an iron, steam, pressing cloth, and tailor’s ham.
Check your pattern balance if it fits but has drag lines.
Hand baste your zipper before machine sewing.
Don’t sew if you’re feeling impatient.
It will take 3-5 times longer to do something than you think.
Your own spit will erase your blood stains on white fabric.
Practice does not make perfect but you can get pretty darn close.
Good luck! <3