The thought of sewing your own clothes from scratch may be daunting, but mastering how to sew each individual component of clothing and then putting it all together is an easier way to frame the learning process. Take the time to practice and make samples so the real thing will be easy. Below, you'll find some basic techniques to help you get started.
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What Is a Dart?
Darts, when made properly, blend into a garment. Learn tips and tricks for sewing darts that shape a garment without standing out on their own.
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How to Sew Darts and Types of Darts
Darts are one of the first parts of a garment that you sew, which is why they're so important to get right. After you've mastered the basics, this article shares more detail, including different types of darts used in sewing.
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How to Transfer Pattern Markings
To get a perfect finished product when you are sewing, you need to transfer the pattern markings onto the fabric. Learn how to do this and you will end up with a garment that is made the way the pattern intends.
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Before You Choose Interfacing, Know the Basics
Sewing usually includes interfacing in collars, cuffs, lapels, and more. Learn about interfacing choices and when it is used before you go shopping.
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What to Do With Fabric That Can't Be Pinned
Not all fabric can be pinned in place while you are sewing. Unsightly pinholes can be avoided while managing unpinnable fabric with these solutions.
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Tips for Sewing a Set in Sleeve
Knowing how to sew a set-in sleeve isn't magic. Learn tips and tricks to get professional results.
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Hemming Information
If we were all the same height and build, all off the rack clothes would fit properly. Since that's not the case, we usually need to hem clothes. Find the details here.
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How to Use a Sewing Machine Blind Hem Stitch
Many sewing machines have a built-in blind hem stitch capability. Learn tricks to using a sewing machine blind stitch to sew hems and you may find yourself using the machine blind stitch for other purposes too.
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Basic Directional Stitching to Sew Stay Stitching and Seams
If you're wondering where to start or which direction to sew a seam or stay stitching, this page has the answers.
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Free Step by Step Directions to Sew Bound Buttonholes
Full step-by-step directions that show how to sew a bound buttonhole.
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Transferring Dots to Fabric From Your Sewing Pattern
Here's a quick tip for marking or transferring dots found on sewing patterns to your fabric.
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How to Remove and Replace Sewn Stitches
Almost every homemade garment requires you to rip out stitches at some point in the construction, even if it's just to remove basting stitches. Learn how to properly rip out sewing stitches and then resew or repair a seam here.
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How to Preserve Sewing Patterns
Learn how to preserve your favorite sewing pattern so you can use it over and over again for years to come.
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Alterations, Design, and Accuracy
Have you had a garment turn out completely different from the pattern envelope measurements? Learn some of the ways these problems can happen.
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Tip to Prevent Lost Pattern Pieces
If you've ever had to buy a second pattern because the first is missing pieces this is a simple solution.
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How to Sew on a Flat Button
Simple to follow text directions to help you learn how to sew on a flat button.
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Interfacing Chiffon and Light Weight Fabric
If you're working on a project made with chiffon or another lightweight fabric, this is a must-read.
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Perfect Pockets
Learn tips and tricks to make your pockets as perfect as the rest of your garment.
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Interfacing: Sew-in or Fusible?
Pointers on choosing what type and weight of interfacing to use when you are sewing a garment.
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Free Projects to Try
Joann Fabric and Crafts offers free tutorials for a variety of sewing projects. Many of these require a purchased pattern, but some are free.