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Advice for beginners - First sew

Advice for beginners - First sew

By Christine Miller

Seeking a manageable project?

Favorite Pants is an ideal starting point for those new to sewing. The pattern for Favorite Pants is created for beginners with only one pattern piece and a minimum of seams. This is the project I recommend to beginners. If you have kids - begin with the mini version. It’s nice to work in a smaller scale if you’re new to following a pattern. It might also be easier to accept small imperfections in kids' clothing. The sewing process is identical for the adult version, so after practicing on the mini, you'll be ready to create something for yourself.

If you're uncertain about sourcing materials, explore our ready-to-sew kits - they include everything you need to get started.

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Advice for beginners

  1. Wash your fabric before sewing to avoid shrinkage.
  2. Work in cotton fabrics like poplin or canvas.
  3. Invest in a basic set of tools. The sewing machine, iron and iron board is essential. Other tools you’ll need include: Sharp scissors, tape measure, pins, a seam ripper and a glue stick or tape to assemble your pages. For jackets and shirts with buttons you need a sewing needle. For pants you need a large safety pin or a bodkin needle (to pull elastic through the casing).
  4. Break down the project into sections.
  5. Print only the size you need to avoid lots of confusing lines. You'll find help to print and assemble your pattern via the links below.
  6. Write to info@soempatterns.com if you have questions or need help.
  7. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soempatterns/ where sewing videos are posted.