Lesson 1 - Setup
-> Measurement sheet
-> Fabric samples (woven [various weights/types], knit)
Lesson 1 - Read a Pattern
1. Sizing - Take your measurements & determine your size. Don't cheat! Remember to look at finished measurements, if provided.
2. Views - Which item do you want to make?
3. Yardage - How much fabric is required? What kind of fabric is this for? Is there interfacing? Contrast?
-> Aside: Pre-shrinking fabric
4. Notions - Does this require buttons or zippers or trim?
5. Inside the envelope - Looking at instructions
-> How to identify which pieces you need to cut.
-> Cutting layout - grainlines
-> Read the instructions
6. Identify which cut-lines to follow and cut the required pattern pieces.
7. Marking - Look at the pattern pieces and make note of any markings that need to be made on the fabric.
8. Pin pieces to fabric, being sure to follow grainlines, and cut fabric.
-> Aside: Tools! Scissors, pins, marking implements, measuring devices.
Bonus Round: Pattern Sources
-> The Big 4 (Vogue, Butterick, McCall's, Simplicity)
-> Mood Sewciety & Peppermint Magazine
-> Indy Pattern Makers (Etsy is a good place to start)
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Lesson 2 - Setup
-> Refresh needle knowledge
-> Refresh directional stitching knowledge
-> Refresh stitch length knowledge
-> Sample: Clipped vs. Non-clipped Curves and Corners
-> Sample: Stitch types on stable and stretch fabrics
-> Seam Finish samples (French, zig-zag/overlock, felled, faux-felled)
Lesson 2 - Start Sewing
1. Set up the machine - Threading (top and bottom) and needle choice, presser feet.
2. Stay-stitching & Directional Stitching
3. First seams - Stitch lengths and types, backstitching, needle position, and the Importance of Pressing.
-> Aside: Clipping curves and corners
-> Aside: Keeping scrap on hand for testing
4. Seam finishes - The importance of and methods for.
5. Edge finishes - Facings, bindings, hems.
-> Aside: Facings vs. Linings
6. The Extras - Trims, buttons, bits and bobs
Bonus Round: Sewing Sustainably
-> Sourcing Fabric: Deadstock, upcycled, buy only what you need
-> Sewing what you will wear
