Learn how to sew with this ultimate guide to sewing for beginners from a passionate seamstress. Sewing is an amazing hobby and skill to acquire that anyone can learn with a bit of patience and excitement!

If you’re anything like me, you’ve always been curious about the art of sewing. Maybe you’ve seen beautiful handmade quilts or stunning clothing and thought, “I wish I could make that.” Or perhaps you’ve inherited a sewing machine from a family member, and it’s been sitting in the corner of your closet, waiting for you to take the plunge and learn how to use it.

learn how to sew ultimate guide to sewing for beginners - close up of Bernette B38 sewing machine

Let me tell you, learning to sew can be one of the most rewarding skills you’ll ever acquire. There’s something special about creating your own handmade wardrobe or simply mending a beloved item instead of throwing it away. And the feeling of accomplishment when you finish a sewing project that you’ve poured hours of time and effort into is truly unparalleled.

When I started learning to sew, I was intimidated by all the sewing terminology and techniques I didn’t understand. But I soon found I could build my skills and confidence with practice. Still, to this day, every time I complete a project, no matter how small, I feel a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Reasons Why You Should Learn How to Sew

  • You can sew your own clothing.
  • It’s a great skill to have so you can mend, alter or make textile items.
  • Everything is customisable to your style!
  • It will save you money. New things are expensive, and so is paying someone to alter or fix your things.
  • It’s fun and rewarding to make things with your own hands.
  • It can be a wonderful way to relax – sewing is my personal meditation.
Fabric in a pile with fabric shears on top and an inspirational sewing board behind. Learn how to sew with this ultimate guide for beginners

Plus, you can sew things for your home, like these adorable ruffle cushion covers or useful items, like these pot holders for your kitchen.

I created this platform to share my passion, knowledge and projects with you, so writing this detailed sewing guide seems appropriate. Below are 7 simple steps to get yourself started on your sewing journey with ease. Let’s jump into it!

P.s, Don’t forget to sign up for my email list to receive sewing tips and projects straight to your inbox!

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7 Simple Steps to Learn How to Sew for Beginners

  1. Pick a sewing machine
  2. Purchase the tools and equipment you need
  3. Learn how to thread and use your sewing machine
  4. Practise sewing seams and hems
  5. Gain knowledge about different types of fabrics
  6. Learn how to cut out fabric correctly
  7. Start sewing fun, beginner-friendly sewing projects

Beginner Sewing Video Series

You can also watch my beginner sewing series playlist with helpful tips and tricks.

1. Pick a Sewing Machine

So, you’ve established that you want to give sewing a go but don’t have a sewing machine. You can get one in a few ways, no matter your budget.

If you have been around for a while, you know how much I love to buy second-hand. You can try finding a suitable sewing machine second-hand online or from a thrift store. I have owned many thrifted machines, which have been sufficient to sew with.

If you have more of a budget, you can find a handful of excellent sewing machines online or in-store. I have shared a comprehensive list of the best sewing machines on the market.

Woman using her sewing machine

You will find all the pros and cons and each sewing machine’s capabilities. I think it’s important to shop with growth in mind. When you have been sewing for a while, what sort of projects could you expect to be making? If you are interested in sewing denim more than anything else, a heavy-duty sewing machine like the Singer 4423 would be best.

My favourite beginner sewing machine is the Brother XM2701 because it’s affordable and has everything you need to start and grow in your creativity. I had a similar model to this one for 12 years before upgrading to my Bernette B38.

If you are still unsure if sewing is a hobby you want to pursue, why not ask friends or family if they have a sewing machine you can borrow? That way, you can get a feel for sewing before purchasing.

2. Purchase the Tools and Equipment You Need

After establishing a sewing machine, you will need a few more tools to get started. Again, these don’t need to be fancy or expensive unless you want to splash out, which is fine by me!

You will want to read my blog on sewing tools and equipment first, so you know what is essential and what’s nice to have. This detailed guide includes pictures of all the tools and links to trusted products that I have used or still use today.

These tools include fabric shears, snips, a tape measure, and pins.

sewing tools laying on a desk

To learn more about the best cutting tools, read my blog on sewing cutting tools for beginners. It is filled with all the information you need to learn about the different cutting equipment used in sewing.

Also, check out my comprehensive guide to sewing marking tools which will help you decide what tools will be better for you when marking patterns or details onto your fabric.

3. Learn How to Thread and Use Your Sewing Machine

Now that your tools are sorted, it’s time to get to know your sewing machine. This step can be intimidating but don’t let it get you down. I remember my first time on a sewing machine in school. I broke two needles and couldn’t sew a straight seam for weeks! We all start somewhere, right?

Before you can practice sewing on your sewing machine, you need to thread it up first. I have shared in-depth tutorials on how to thread up your sewing machine and wind a bobbin, including pictures and tips.

Diagram of threading up a sewing machine

I recommend having your machine manual out so you can follow along for your specific sewing machine. If you don’t have this, try searching it online, as most manuals are available digitally nowadays.

Once your sewing machine has been threaded up, it will be ready to use. Plug in the machine and switch it on.

4. Practise Sewing Seams and Hems

Now that your sewing machine is threaded and ready to use, it’s time to start practising using your sewing machine.

I like to use scrap pieces of fabric to practise sewing on. The best fabrics are woven, like calico, cotton, or poplin, because they are easier to handle when starting out.

Before you begin sewing, some sewing terminology is worth learning, so you understand what I’m referring to in the steps below. I suggest reading my sewing glossary to get up to speed.

You can try sewing rows of stitching to get the hang of your machine or follow my tutorial on sewing seams. In this tutorial, I share how to sew a simple seam with step-by-step pictures.

You can watch my video tutorial below if you want to learn how to sew simple hems.

5. Gain Knowledge About Different Types of Fabrics

Before you begin sewing projects, some fabric knowledge will go a long way. I see so many beginner sewers give up because they don’t like how their sewing projects turn out. I notice that a big part of this is their choices in fabric.

It’s important to understand fabric basics, like differentiating between woven and knit. Also, understanding the woven and knit fabric types and how they feel and drape.

Rolls of fabric in a pile

These things are important to set yourself up for success. Sewing a flowy dress from stiff denim won’t work. The result will not be a soft, draped dress instead, it will be a structured piece, but using chiffon, rayon, or silk would result in a lovely flowy dress as planned.

This post about fabric types will give you a clear understanding of the basics you need to know. If you are interested in sustainability, I have also shared an in-depth post about types of sustainable fabrics that may be insightful.

6. Learn How to Cut Out Fabric Correctly

Something that can be overlooked is learning how to cut out your fabric the correct way. This can take a few tries to understand, but it sticks with you forever once understood, like driving!

Without confusing you, too much fabric is woven a certain way, resulting in weaker and stronger directions. Following the cut and uncut edges can help you identify these directions on fabric. All sewing patterns have a marked line called the grainline, which helps you correctly line up your sewing pattern on the fabric.

Diagram showing how to cut out fabric correctly following the pattern grainline

When the grainline isn’t followed correctly, many problems can occur, like ill-fitting garments, twisting fabric, seams not matching, pilling when sewing and the list goes on. Before you cut out any sewing projects, read my guide to cutting out fabric correctly to avoid making these easy mistakes.

7. Start Sewing Fun, Beginner-Friendly Sewing Projects

Now that you have covered all the essential sewing steps, you can start making fun beginner-friendly sewing projects. These are all quick, fun, and enjoyable sewing projects to make!

I suggest starting off with a smaller project first so you can be rewarded with a finished product in just an hour or two. This will motivate you to keep making things until you feel confident to jump into a garment or quilt project.

If you start with a garment, you may get overwhelmed, and it’s easier to give up in those moments.

Here are some tips on what to look for in beginner sewing projects to make your life easier:

  • Straight seams are easier to start sewing and practise before trying curves.
  • Smaller projects that only take a small amount of fabric and a few hours to sew. Why? First, less fabric makes it cheaper and less pressure for you to get things perfect when you’re learning. And smaller projects are usually quicker to reward you and keep you motivated to keep sewing.

Where to Find Beginner Sewing Projects

I love reading books, so to encourage you to continue learning about sewing or to find more enjoyable sewing projects, I have compiled a list of my top 10 sewing books for beginners. These books have some enjoyable sewing projects within the pages.

You can find many sewing patterns online, like on Etsy or blogs like mine. Below are some of my favourite beginner sewing projects I’ve shared on the blog.

You can check out my post 8 Useful Sewing Projects to Make for the Home if you want to explore projects for your home.

Drawstring Bags

Sew a handful of these useful drawstring bags in less than 15 minutes. They have many uses, like holding fruit and vegetables, wrapping gifts, or storing smaller items in your handbag. This project will teach you how to sew simple French seams and thread ties through fabric casings like on waistbands.

Three floral drawstring bags made following Makyla Creates free diy drawstring bag sewing project

Scrunchies

A classic for beginners, scrunchies are easy, quick, and super fun to make! You can make a bunch of them gifts for friends and family. If you signed up to my mailing list above, you can download my free scrunchie pattern in my subscriber library to print off and use for this sewing project.

Bow scrunchies made following Makyla Creates free scrunchies sewing project

Pot Holders

This project has been super popular among my readers. Pot holders are a fun afternoon sewing project because they are practical but also teach you how to work with layers of fabric and top stitch.

Floral pot holders made following Makyla Creates free diy pot holder sewing project

DIY Reusable Paper Towels

Practical for any sustainability lover! These DIY reusable paper towels are the best alternative to single-use paper towels in the kitchen. This sewing project is the quickest of all, only requiring you to sew around a rectangle. Perfect for practising sewing around corners.

A pile of reusable paper towels made following Makyla Creates free diy reusable paper towel sewing project

Fabric Coasters

If you have a few small pieces of fabric, you can make these cute patchwork fabric coasters. You will learn how to piece together fabric squares and sew them into a bigger size.

A patchwork coaster with a mug on top made following Makyla Creates free diy fabric coaster sewing project

Once you feel confident to move on to other sewing projects, check out my sewing patterns that you can print out yourself at home and sew along with my clear, detailed sewing instructions.

If you want to continue to be inspired and learn more sewing techniques follow me on Instagram and tag me if you share any sewing projects from my blog!

More Sewing Tutorials

Learn How to Sew – Ultimate Guide to Sewing for Beginners

Woman using her sewing machine

Learn how to sew with this ultimate guide to sewing for
beginners in 7 simple steps.

Active Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours
Difficulty Beginner

Materials

  • Fabric
  • Thread

Tools

  • Sewing machine
  • Fabric shears
  • Chalk
  • Pins

Instructions

1. Pick a Sewing Machine

    So, you’ve established that you want to give sewing a go but don’t have a sewing machine. You can get one in a few ways, no matter your budget.

    If you have been around for a while, you know how much I love to buy second-hand. You can try finding a suitable sewing machine second-hand online or from a thrift store. I have owned many thrifted machines, which have been sufficient to sew with.

    If you have more of a budget, you can find a handful of excellent sewing machines online or in-store. I have shared a comprehensive list of the best sewing machines on the market.

    You will find all the pros and cons and each sewing machine's capabilities. I think it’s important to shop with growth in mind. When you have been sewing for a while, what sort of projects could you expect to be making? If you are interested in sewing denim more than anything else, a heavy-duty sewing machine like the Singer 4423 would be best.

    My favourite beginner sewing machine is the Brother XM2701 because it’s affordable and has everything you need to start and grow in your creativity. I had a similar model to this one for 12 years before upgrading to my Bernette B38.

    If you are still unsure if sewing is a hobby you want to pursue, why not ask friends or family if they have a sewing machine you can borrow? That way, you can get a feel for sewing before purchasing.

2. Purchase the Tools and Equipment You Need

After establishing a sewing machine, you will need a few more tools to get started. Again, these don’t need to be fancy or expensive unless you want to splash out, which is fine by me!

    You will want to read my blog on sewing tools and equipment first, so you know what is essential and what’s nice to have. This detailed guide includes pictures of all the tools and links to trusted products that I have used or still use today.

    These tools include fabric shears, snips, a tape measure, and pins.

    To learn more about the best cutting tools, read my blog on sewing cutting tools for beginners. It is filled with all the information you need to learn about the different cutting equipment used in sewing.

    Also, check out my comprehensive guide to sewing marking tools which will help you decide what tools will be better for you when marking patterns or details onto your fabric.


3. Learn How to Thread and Use Your Sewing Machine

    Now that your tools are sorted, it’s time to get to know your sewing machine. This step can be intimidating but don’t let it get you down. I remember my first time on a sewing machine in school. I broke two needles and couldn’t sew a straight seam for weeks! We all start somewhere, right?

    Before you can practice sewing on your sewing machine, you need to thread it up first. I have shared in-depth tutorials on how to thread up your sewing machine and wind a bobbin, including pictures and tips.

    I recommend having your machine manual out so you can follow along for your specific sewing machine. If you don’t have this, try searching it online, as most manuals are available digitally nowadays.

    Once your sewing machine has been threaded up, it will be ready to use. Plug in the machine and switch it on.

    4. Practise Sewing Seams and Hems

    Now that your sewing machine is threaded and ready to use, it’s time to start practising using your sewing machine.

    I like to use scrap pieces of fabric to practise sewing on. The best fabrics are woven, like calico, cotton, or poplin, because they are easier to handle when starting out.

    Before you begin sewing, some sewing terminology is worth learning, so you understand what I’m referring to in the steps below. I suggest reading my sewing glossary to get up to speed.

    You can try sewing rows of stitching to get the hang of your machine or follow my tutorial on sewing seams. In this tutorial, I share how to sew a simple seam with step-by-step pictures.

    5. Gain Knowledge About Different Types of Fabrics

    Before you begin sewing projects, some fabric knowledge will go a long way. I see so many beginner sewers give up because they don’t like how their sewing projects turn out. I notice that a big part of this is their choices in fabric.

    It’s important to understand fabric basics, like deafferenting between woven and knit. Also, understanding the woven and knit fabric types and how they feel and drape.

    These things are important to set yourself up for success. Sewing a flowy dress from stiff denim won't work. The result will not be a soft, draped dress instead, it will be a structured piece, but using chiffon, rayon, or silk would result in a lovely flowy dress as planned.

    This post about fabric types will give you a clear understanding of the basics you need to know. If you are interested in sustainability, I have also shared an in-depth post about types of sustainable fabrics that may be insightful.

    6. Learn How to Cut Out Fabric Correctly

Something that can be overlooked is learning how to cut out your fabric the correct way. This can take a few tries to understand, but it sticks with you forever once understood, like driving!

    Without confusing you, too much fabric is woven a certain way, resulting in weaker and stronger directions. Following the cut and uncut edges can help you identify these directions on fabric. All sewing patterns have a marked line called the grainline, which helps you correctly line up your sewing pattern on the fabric.

    When the grainline isn’t followed correctly, many problems can occur, like ill-fitting garments, twisting fabric, seams not matching, pilling when sewing and the list goes on. Before you cut out any sewing projects, read my guide to cutting out fabric correctly to avoid making these easy mistakes.

    7. Start Sewing Fun, Beginner-Friendly Sewing Projects

    Now that you have covered all the essential sewing steps, you can start making fun beginner-friendly sewing projects. These are all quick, fun, and enjoyable sewing projects to make!

    I suggest starting off with a smaller project first so you can be rewarded with a finished product in just an hour or two. This will motivate you to keep making things until you feel confident to jump into a garment or quilt project.

    If you start with a garment, you may get overwhelmed, and it's easier to give up in those moments.

    Here are some tips on what to look for in beginner sewing projects to make your life easier:

  • Straight seams are easier to start sewing and practise before trying curves.
  • Smaller projects that only take a small amount of fabric and a few hours to sew. Why? First, less fabric makes it cheaper and less pressure for you to get things perfect when you’re learning. And smaller projects are usually quicker to reward you and keep you motivated to keep sewing.

Where to Find Beginner Sewing Projects

I love reading books, so to encourage you to continue learning about sewing or to find more enjoyable sewing projects, I have compiled a list of my top 10 sewing books for beginners. These books have some enjoyable sewing projects within the pages.

You can find many sewing patterns online, like on Etsy or blogs like mine. Below are some of my favourite beginner sewing projects I’ve shared on the blog.

You can check out my post 8 Useful Sewing Projects to Make for the Home if you want to explore projects for your home.

Drawstring Bags

Sew a handful of these useful drawstring bags in less than 15 minutes. They have many uses, like holding fruit and vegetables, wrapping gifts, or storing smaller items in your handbag. This project will teach you how to sew simple French seams and thread ties through fabric casings like on waistbands.

Scrunchies

A classic for beginners, scrunchies are easy, quick, and super fun to make! You can make a bunch of them gifts for friends and family. If you signed up to my mailing list above, you can download my free scrunchie pattern in my subscriber library to print off and use for this sewing project.

Pot Holders

This project has been super popular among my readers. Pot holders are a fun afternoon sewing project because they are practical but also teach you how to work with layers of fabric and top stitch.

DIY Reusable Paper Towels

Practical for any sustainability lover! These DIY reusable paper towels are the best alternative to single-use paper towels in the kitchen. This sewing project is the quickest of all, only requiring you to sew around a rectangle. Perfect for practising sewing around corners.

Fabric Coasters

If you have a few small pieces of fabric, you can make these cute patchwork fabric coasters. You will learn how to piece together fabric squares and sew them into a bigger size.

Once you feel confident to move on to other sewing projects, check out my sewing patterns that you can print out yourself at home and sew along with my clear, detailed sewing instructions.

Notes

6 Reasons Why You Should Learn How to Sew:

  • You can sew your own clothing
  • It’s a great skill to have so you can mend, alter
    or make textile items.
  • Everything is customisable to your style.    
  • It will save you money. New things are expensive,
    and so is paying someone to alter or fix your things.   
  • It’s fun and rewarding to make things with your
    own hands.
  • It can be a wonderful way to relax – sewing is
    my personal meditation.

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