Autumn is beginning to roll in. Your mind drifts to that shirt you love, the buttons are getting a bit weary, and it’s in desperate need of repair or refresh. It’s a spark of inspiration – it’s time to dust off that sewing machine and create something spectacular. Maybe it’s time to learn a new skill and freshen up your look.
Check out our ideas for creating your own stylish garments.
Learn to repair clothes with a sewing machine
Using a sewing machine is a useful skill – and something new to do on the cooler days. Simple tasks like machine set up and use, reading patterns and fabric suitability are all required to operate a sewing machine. Simple clothing repairs will now be made easier with your new-found knowledge on how to use a sewing machine.
Master a sewing machine
You’ve got the basics nailed, now it’s time to sharpen those skills. Learning how to thread, tension adjust, and how and when to use the built in stitches and presser feet that come along with the machine. These simple things can all lead to achieving professional results. How great would it be to emerge from autumn with a professional looking skill that could lead to endless possibilities?
Create Your Own Outfit
Discovering how to create your own customised patterns is an awesome way to explore a range of professional pattern-making techniques. Learn about ways to develop an individualised approach to drafting methods while constructing a block to make a pair of trousers with or without pleats or pockets. Even refining skills for canvassing, fusing, lining and finishing your design.
Repurpose an existing garment
Have an existing skirt or shirt that you just can’t part with and want to turn into something new? There’s nothing better than developing the skills to transfer garment panels onto the pattern paper – the beginnings of making something new.
This is your opportunity to freshen up a favourite outfit. Learn to locate the straight grain of fabric on each garment panel and fit together pattern pieces as they are being produced. There’s a great sense of accomplishment in creating your own clothes!