How to get more from your sewing class… If you’re going to make the investment of time and money to attend an in person class, you want to squeeze every bit of value from it.
Over the years I’ve seen the student who do that progress their skills, get more enjoyment and improve far quicker and those who don’t.
Of course progression that is not the only reason to take a sewing class. Many students join for the social aspect of classes. It is the perfect way to meet new friends and many new friendships have been forged in sewing classes.
From chatting with my students, these are the things that they say make the biggest difference.
Choose the Right Pattern
Check out the whole post I’ve written on this here… But the gist of it is to choose:
- Something that you love. It’s much better to make something you would actually wear.
- A pattern in the right size range – check the body measurement chart against your actual measurements
- Something at the right skill level for your ability. Making clothes is a skill that takes time to master, so trying to run before you can walk is a recipe for disaster.
- The right fabric. Click here for a post about choosing your fabric.
Listen to your Tutor
Whatever your current skill level, you have signed up to a class to learn new things. Soak up the knowledge of your tutors experience. Come with an open attitude to learning. Don’t assume you know everything.
Ask questions and get curious. If you don’t understand something, speak up and say so. A good tutor will find another way to explain it to you that makes sense to you.
Accept your Body as it is Right Now
Do not body shame yourself or others. Make for the body you have right now. Pattern sizes are not the same as shop sizes, so loose that expectation before you start. Your worth is not defined by the numbers on a tape measure or the size of your clothes.
Chat with other Students
Get to know the others in your class. Without fail sewing people are lovely people. Amazing friendships spring up in sewing classes. The support and camaraderie at sewing classes is a special thing.
Keep your Stuff Organised
By all means use the space that’s available to you, but keep it organised. It’s so easy to accidently throw out a crucial piece of fabric or a loose a pattern piece unless you keep yourself organised.
If you’re working on your project at home, ensure you bring everything you need to your next class.
And most of all to get more from your sewing class remember that you’re there to have fun!
Love & Stitches
Alison xx
