Wednesday, May 16, 2012

ReIntroduction

This blog is undergoing a much needed makeover as are my sewing habits.

It seems that no matter how frustrated I get with my sewing projects, after weeks/months/years of neglect I always return to the sewing machine with renewed determination. So, right on schedule, here I am with a new promise that I will not bite off more than I can chew with the first project and that I WILL make a muslin.
Admittedly I am a reckless and impatient seamstress who is frequently overly ambitious with fabric-choice and pattern difficulty. I do not follow the instructions, I cut corners and usually end up with a garment ill-fitted and unwearable. It has taken me years to admit this.
The fact that I always return to it gives me hope that I can relearn everything I thought I knew about sewing and truly teach myself to be the seamstress that I want to (and know I can) be.

So here are my self-imposed rules to sewing. I will follow these rules to the letter because I know that they will serve me well if I stick with them (this time).

1. Begin as a Beginner. I will use beginner patterns & beginner fabrics. No exceptions.
2. Read the Instructions. I will open the pattern instructions and follow them. I will not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help in deciphering them.
3. Make a Muslin. There is no time-limit and I will make a muslin and fit it. Yes. I will. Practice makes Perfect.
4. Iron, Clip, Baste, Interface. I will not sacrifice the ironing, clipping, basting or interfacing process in the interest of time or impatience.
5. Sew with Precision. If it's not right, take it out and re-do it. No, it won't be fine if I just trudge along.


This post has been an honest assessment of my sewing skills. It has taken me a long time to admit that I am both out of practice and really, was never very good to begin with. I will not be overwhelmed by the sewing machine and it's seemingly endless number of little issues that inevitably do me in. I will not be afraid of the pattern instructions and I will take my time.

Starting one week from today, I begin my re-introduction to sewing. For once I have all the time in the world to become a member of the sewing-class and I think I am ready.

My first endeavor is a pair of tie-waisted pajama pants (Simplicity Learn To Sew #2290). In the past I would skip straight to silk (which of course is the goal via Cavalli's Palm Silk Pants) but the new, more humble me, will begin with a simple easy to sew cotton as a muslin and go from there.

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