Sewing Machine Basics: A step-by-step course for first-time stitchers

by Jane Bolsover

This book takes the mystery out of the sewing machine, holding first-time stitchers by the hand and showing the easiest ways to get the most from their machine.

This book takes the mystery out of the sewing machine, holding first-time stitchers by the hand and showing the easiest ways to get the most from their machine.

In the climate of “make do and mend,” sales of sewing machines have soared, but many are only accompanied by a difficult-to-understand technical manual. Here, Jane Bolsover provides a comprehensive guide for beginners. Starting with an essential overview of the sewing machine, learn how to thread it and wind bobbins, why tension is important, and which needles to choose. There's information on the basic sewing kit you will need, plus advice on which fabrics to choose and how to cut out. The chapters then build into a complete sewing course, and at the end of each chapter is a simple project to consolidate the skills you have just mastered. The projects include items for the home, including a cushion cover and a lampshade, stylish accessories, such as bags and scarves, plus great clothing basics, such as an A-line skirt and a simple shift dress. Also included at the back of the book are two full-size pull-out paper pattern sections.

Genres: Sewing, Nonfiction, Reference, Crafts

160 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2010

Reviews

[Helene Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review - This is an excellent book for first time sewers, or those not entirely confident, like me. It walks you through everything step-by-step with handy diagrams, and it doesn't just show you how to make clothes but also curtains, pillows and scarves, which are a really nice touch. There are also a set of full-sized patterns with full instructions on how to make them. A great little book for all sewers and not just those starting out - if you want to sew after watching the Great British Sewing Bee but don't know where to start then this is the book for you!

General Subject/s? - Sewing / Fabric / Fashion

Recommend? – Yes

Rating - 19/20

[Babbs · Rating 3 out of 5]

My grandmother, who has been sewing for more than 60 years, had been looking for a good basic book that encompassed machine sewing as a present for me, the fledgling sewer. This is the book she chose and then sent after several people she knew recommended it (all would be considered experts with equivalent experience as my grandmother). Upon first opening it I thought it would be mostly a reference when I needed it, but not something I could sit down and actually read, but I was wrong. This book goes through the basics of pretty much everything a beginner needs to know, included are instructions for:
seams and hems
types of machine feet
how to determine your stitch tension
stitch guides
bias binding
fasteners (buttons and zippers)
pockets
basic construction and pattern use
darts and pleats

I also have Lisa Lam's book, The Bag Making Bible, which is a good general introduction to construction, not just patterns (but the majority of those patters are beyond my current skill level, though they are not marked as such). I think the conjunction of these two books have been more beneficial than either book alone. The Sewing Machine Basics book includes many pictures, and detailed explanations as to why you are doing things, which I also really like.

I have tried a few of the techniques, and actually used the stitch tension guide to determine that my tension was too low. I'm certain I will continue to reference this book as I begin learning to sew.

[Saffron · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always said I can't sew but considering my requirement to make do and mend now I decided I needed to bite the bullet, get the Mother in Laws old sewing machine out of the cupboard and give it a go.

Surprisingly I am not a complete idiot when it comes to using the machine (and it is a lot easier than that really infuriating hobby of crochet that I just can't click with). There are patterns in the back that you will need to trace and cut out but all instructions are clear and illustrated in a format that makes the step by step procedure easy to follow. I haven't got to making a pleated blouse yet but I have learnt some basic skills with the machine and surprised myself with my hand sewing too.

[Hag of the Dribble · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! It had all the basics I needed as a beginner. Great illustrations to demonstrate techniques. A must have for everyone with a sewing machine!

[Enci · Rating 4 out of 5]

More focus (and detailed) on projects to make. The bonus is the sewing template :)

[Sitha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suitable for beginner like me. The illustrations help me a lot.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Great at giving basics to someone who has no clue!!