Crafty Threads 'n' Yarns

bagpuss · Joined: 26 Aug 2007 Posts: 28 Location: Cambridge UK

Hi
I'm getting my first sewing machine for my birthday was looking for advice on good beginner books.
I have used a sewing machine once before (about 15 years) and have seen some books on amazon but was wondering if anyone has any faves.
I hope to use the machine to make bags, line my felted/knitted bags and maybe even make some clothes (probably just simple skirts).
Also if people have any great on-line stores that sell fabric etc that would be great.
i am really excited about learning this new hobby.

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Ravelry id: bagpuss

Glynis · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 7:11 am Post subject:

Oh a sewing machine will be so useful, what a lovely present!
I don't sew particularly well in the dressmaking sense, but I've used mine to make all manner of things over the years.
The only piece of advice I would give is to start with a non-slippy non-stretchy cotton fabric while you are getting the measure of how your machine works and how shapes fit together.
Now of course that may say more about me and my lack of ability than anything else, but there you go. Smile

Farmgirl · Posted: Thu Oct 04, 2007 8:01 am Post subject:

A lot of adult education centres, evening classes etc. run courses for "getting to know your sewing machine" so it is worth having a look round.

I think that one of the best books is the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. Hope this helps.
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Linda

Seahorse · Joined: 06 Nov 2006 Posts: 1430

I asked a couple of sewing friends the same question a while ago and they both recommended 'Yeah, I Made It Myself':

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Yeah-Made...oks&qid=1191496807&sr=8-1

Claire