Bloomeneutics - Intro to Sewing
Welcome to my world of Sewing! Sewing is about being creativity, relaxing, and pleasure. Anyone can be creative by nurturing and developing. You can learn whatever you wish from basic sewing to pattern construction. Sewing is for everyone, old, young, female, and male. As you know I am going back through my sewing adventure from the last two years but putting it in a new found order Bloomeneutics. In sewing you choose the design, color, fabric, embellishments, and fit. Sewing is an art and that has become a lifestyle. Many home seamstresses (sewers) are now producing their own high fashion garments without the homemade look. They enjoy displaying their sewn garment to others. Seamstresses believe that if they make it, they will wear it and must show it off!
According to Alan Beggerow paper titled “Sewing Tools and History”
the practice of sewing, as in using thread and needle to attach
various kinds of material, has been dated to at least 20,000 years
ago.[i]
Beggerow also writes that sewing is practically a universal
occurrence, and the actual beginnings of it stretch back to the
beginnings of history. For most of
the history of sewing, it was done by hand. From the simplest
stitches to ornate decorative work was done with a needle, thread
and a steady hand. It remained so until the first patent for a
machine that "emulated hand sewing" in 1790 in
Sewing is whatever
you make of it. Sewing
is not a spectator’s hobby, thou you will cross many who just want
to be near others. In my
journey, I found many people that have health problems. Doctors have
recommended they learn how to sew. Many are inspired to sew by
today’s fashion and styles.
By sewing for yourself you can achieve a great fit in
clothing for your particular body shape and imperfections. Project
Runway has many people desiring to not only sew but to design their
own line of clothing and accessories. You can be your own designer
as well by making custom clothing for yourself and others.
Many sew because a garment they desire cost too much or has
the wrong color or fit.
Did you know? A hobby helps stimulate
the mind and promotes mental well being. It helps maintain
independence, aid in having healthy relationships, improve memory,
reduce stress, enhance the immune system and improve their self
esteem.
[iii]
Did I give you enough information how sewing can be beneficial to
you yet? Well here are some more points.
People
today are not sewing due to necessity, but for desire.
This change in attitude is a result of technology.
The designer’s patterns and styles are looking more
attractive every day.
It is amazing what you can sew with just a little sewing
knowledge. I have made
skirts, pants, and tops and I have helped others to make skirts and
craft items. By just knowing how to do a straight stitch and a
zigzag stitch on a sewing machine you can make many clothing items.
Be not afraid of growing slowly into sewing; be
only afraid of not growing.
Sewing as in any hobby can be expensive. You do not have to
take on the whole institution of sewing.
Whatever your reason for sewing, the feeling of pride and joy
created from sewing is priceless.
You will gain confidence the more you sew.
What I found interesting is that your interest may lead you
to making craft, quilting, embroidering or specializing in garments
of just skirts, or pants, bridal wear, menswear, purses, or hats.
I like looking at
Nancy’s Notions
because she combines sewing with art.
Do
not beat yourself up about your sewing and imperfections in sewing.
Those imperfections help you to grow, so learn from your self
critique of your work.
Do not let anyone else criticize your sewing, unless they are
willing to help you correct your problems.
Purchase what you can and be happy with what you have until
you can get what you want.
Have all your supplies in one area before sewing an item.
Be as neat as possible and store unfinished projects (UFO) in
envelopes, drawers, closets, containers etc. to make them easier to
find later.
The objective of my article is for you to
acquire the knowledge and skills needed to produce better looking
garments and that are original.
I have visited many websites during my journey and we will
look at many of them as I proceed.
Upon completing my journey, you will have some laughs, but
surely grow and make the right decision for yourself.
Until the next time, Happy Sewing!
Sparkles
Suggested books to get
started:
Singer – “The Complete Photo Guide to Sewing” and
Sandra Betzina – “More Fabric Savvy”
Nancy Zieman – “Sew with Confidence”
Vogue Sewing - The Butterick Publishing Company
End Notes (will update references as needed):
