Learn the essential sewing skills every beginner needs to get started with confidence. This category covers sewing fundamentals such as fabric types, tools and equipment, sewing terminology, cutting and pressing techniques, machine setup, and simple stitches. You’ll find step-by-step tutorials, practical tips, and troubleshooting advice designed to build strong foundations for garment sewing, pattern drafting, and DIY projects. Perfect for beginners and a helpful refresher for experienced sewists looking to master the basics and improve sewing accuracy and results.
After following my previous post on natural fibres, you went out and bought some wonderful cotton, wool and rayon fabrics and are itching to get started because the fabrics are so beautiful. But wait! Before you go near the colourful stash with the shears, you need to prepare and prewash the natural fabrics before sewing to […]
How to Pre-Wash and Prepare Natural Fabrics Before Sewing Read More »
These days I only buy and use natural fibres for garment sewing. In the past, especially at the start of my sewing journey, I bought the cheapest fabric available in a shade of my preference. However, as I was getting more experience and my priorities shifted to reducing the impact on the environment. At some
Choosing the Best Natural Fibres for Garment Sewing Read More »
In my previous blog post I showed you how to create a custom bodice block from your own measurements. In this post I will explain how to take it from good to perfect template for your future sewing projects. Short back story of personal experience I still remember the feel of how exciting it was
How to Perfect a Custom Bodice Block – Tips and Tricks Read More »
To make sewing pattern blocks that fits perfectly, it is important to take accurate body measurements. I started pattern drafting in 2018 and have done and redone the basic blocks a few times, either to address the fit issues, changes in the body or inaccurate measurements. What I learnt over the years is that it
How to Take Accurate Body Measurements at Home Read More »
In the final instalment on materials for reusable pads I will delve into some predictable and some creative options for closure materials for reusable pads. Some options will include what you already might have in your fabric and notions stash. If you wanted to catch up in the previous posts in the series, here is
Uncover unique and creative fastener materials for reusable pads Read More »
In the first post of the series on the materials for reusable pads I explored the backing layers of the reusable pads. The second post was dedicated to the very important absorbent layers. In this post I will delve into the various options of the top layer materials for reusable pads, sharing with my experience
Ultimate Guide: Tested Top Layer Materials for Reusable Pads Read More »
Welcome to the second part of the four parties serious on best materials for reusable pads. In this post I will go through the most popular and reliable options, highlighting the pros and cons of each and explaining where and how I would use either material to achieve the required customisation to create sanitary, maternity
The most reliable absorbent materials for reusable pads Read More »
When I started making the reusable pads, the choice of the materials was quite daunting. Every option on the mainstream reusable market was for a stay dry top and PUL (polyurethane laminate) back, and that was what I first made. I was happy at first but soon the excitement died away with a realisation that
5 unique and effective backing materials for reusable pads Read More »
