This post is a bit “beyond the basics”. When I registered for my wedding gifts, I included a sewing machine, my husband to be was rather surprised. “Do you even know how to sew?” Now many years later I have two sewing machines, a serger, and a huge stash of material. I have made clothing for daily wear, Renaissance Faire costumes and even costumes for the local theater.

I quite enjoy sewing.

This is what I want to share with people. It is challenging and fulfilling and quite frankly, a bit cheaper than buying store bought clothing. It is also empowering. The fact that with your own hands you have made something fantastic is great. When people ask you, “Where did you get that coat?” and you can say, “Joanne Fabrics”…and wait for the look on their face when they realize that you made it yourself? Priceless.

All of that being said, if you are easily frustrated, and do not have the spare time? Don’t make your own clothing. The first few items you make will not be exactly the way you want.  (And if you have a spouse/partner who is “helpful” and like to point out where you can…lets’ say improve…it can get a bit frustrating.)

So the answer to “Should I make my own clothing?” is yes. Yes you should.  Start small. Say with a simple dress or nightgown/shirts or sweats.  Pick a pattern which says “easy” or “beginner”.

Set a up a nice place to start. Even if you start in your living room. Just keep in mind that if you are working on your kitchen table (as I did to begin with) you will need to have something on top of the table to protect it from accidental cuts and whatnots. Also, if you have small pets and/or children, keep an eye out for those dropped pins. Because you WILL have them. (Magnets are great, or a pair of pantyhose over a vacuum cleaner extension will pick up those pesky pins.)

But most of all, HAVE FUN!

-Aunty Zia

P.S. Stay tuned for later in the week when I give you some sewing websites to take a look at.