Start sewing
A sewing machine looks complicated, but you only need a handful of its parts to start. Learn them on a set of cloth napkins: straight lines, neat hems and square corners. Here's the video that hooks everyone, and everything you need for your first napkins.
Space neededA sturdy table and an outlet
First projectA set of cloth napkins
Skill levelBeginner-friendly
Good forFixing, making, gifts
The video that hooks everyone
A beginner's guide to sewing: how to use a sewing machine
A friendly, start-from-zero guide to using a sewing machine, made for people who have never sewn before. Press play and see why it hooks people.
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Tool list
What you need to start
Everything you need for your first project, and nothing you don't. Most of it fits in one tote bag.
Starter kit
01A basic sewing machineA simple mechanical machine with straight and zigzag stitches. A serviced used one is fine.
02Quilting cotton, 2 yd.Firm, flat cotton that doesn't slip. The easiest fabric to learn on.
03All-purpose threadTwo or three spools in colors that match your fabric.
04Universal machine needlesSizes 80/12 and 90/14. A fresh needle for each project.
05Fabric scissorsSharp shears used only on fabric.
06Pins and a pincushionGlass-head pins are easy to see and grab.
07Clear ruler and tape measureFor straight cuts and even hems.
08Iron and ironing boardPressing as you go makes neat seams.
09Seam ripperEvery sewist's most-used tool.
The manual tells you what to look for when you buy each one.
- 1Sewing over pinsThe needle can hit a pin and snap. Pull each pin out just before it reaches the presser foot.
- 2Pulling the fabric throughThe machine moves the fabric for you. Just guide it with flat hands. Pulling bends the needle and wobbles the line.
- 3Skipping the ironPressed folds and seams are what make sewing look neat. Press every hem and seam as you go.
