Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Fashion Girl,

Dear Fashion Girl,

I'm 18 and I've taken two sewing classes so far. I just got my first sewing machine for Christmas, and I’m so excited about creating my own clothes and styles, that I don't know where to begin! I have so many ideas, but I don't want my new sewing adventure to be a disaster. Any suggestions on what are good pieces to start with or tips on how to make my journey simple yet satisfying?

Sincerely, EboniGirl

Dear EboniGirl,

First of all, take a deep breath, slowly exhale and repeat after me: "there is no sewing stress..." Now you are on the right path! It’s good to start with simply cut pieces like A-line dresses, halter tops, or basic straight skirts. Pants and skirts with elastic waistbands are also very easy to make. Go to a fabric store and browse through their pattern books. Simplicity and McCall’s make easy-sew patterns that are basic, cute, and fast. Their patterns include step-by-step instructions for cutting the fabric and sewing the garment together. Invest in a good general sewing instruction book to help with any questions that come up as you’re sewing. Remember to start slowly and don’t get frustrated. As you continue, you will get to know your sewing machine inside and out. Move on to more complex patterns as you are ready. Soon you will have mastered it all=97hems, sleeves, collars, zippers, pleats...all that fun stuff. After you’ve made some outfits, consider taking pattern making classes to learn how to create your own patterns. Pattern making will be a breeze for you after all that sewing. That’s where the real adventure begins=97creating your own designs, from sketch, to pattern, to fabric.

Lots of luck on your sewing sojourn!

Sincerely,