(Part 2) Top products from r/sewing

Oh, I understood.

As for resources, here's what I suggest:

A good sewing class at a community college. I took classes at a fashion-oriented one and in under four months I had learned how to sew on an industrial machine and done several seams and seam finishes, basic hand stitches, two types of zippers, facings, a skirt with zipper, darts, waistband, and closures and a fairly complex woman's blouse (it had 14 pieces). At the end, I didn't do any of these things as well I would have liked, but I knew the fundamentals and what I had to improve on. All projects were in some kind of cotton because it is easy to work with.

In the second sewing class, I learned welt pockets, made corduroy pants with a waistband and fly, and sewed a wool jacket with patch pockets and a bagged lining. Again, I learned a lot, but there was still plenty of room for improvement. Then I took tailoring and couture classes and menswear classes.

A community college setting is good because there's a curriculum into which they have put some thought and by law, they have to make sure you do the work. It's also usually cheaper than private classes if you qualify for the in-state rate.

If you can afford it and want to do things on your own schedule, private classes are great. I would have a teacher show me how to fit and modify a pattern and teach me to sew it. One source for teachers is the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals.

Online, I recommend the University of Fashion because the teaching, in general, is very good. For pattern making and draping, they tell you the sequence of videos to watch. I think that the sewing videos aren't organized that way, but if you need to look up a technique, it's very easy.

If you want a complex project, I recommend Susan Khalje's The Couture Dress on Craftsy. Even if you don't use the pattern that comes with the course, she teaches very good methods. Couture-style sewing is actually good for beginners because there are many more steps that give the sewer more control. It was only after a basic couture class that I really began to improve because I needed to break down the process more. Khalje also teaches a lace skirt class, but the lace used is pretty expensive. As you may know, Craftsy offers frequent sales.

There are many good sewing books, but any edition of The Reader's Digest Guide to Sewing is decent. It's a really encyclopedic home sewing book. If you ever look into tailoring, Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket and these books for men and women are very helpful.

Elizabeth Liechty's Fitting and Pattern Alteration is usually considered the most comprehensive book on that subject.

All these books are available in the library if too expensive to buy.

I can personally attest that it is certainly possible to go from zero sewing experience to making mens' garments in a few years, but there is a huge, yawning chasm between home sewing from patterns and becoming a good enough bespoke tailor to garner a brand/reputation. From a basic "where do I get started" standpoint, I recommend having a go at some vests; something super simple at first (Simplicity 2346 is a great starter pattern) and then you can move on to patterns that add details like facings, darts, lapels and/or actual pockets. You get the satisfaction of a functional garment without a lot of complex technique.

When I first started sewing and thinking about how cool it would be to eventually make old-fashioned mens' clothing, I did a lot of googling for books, web tutorials, etc. on the subject... and came away frustrated because the overwhelming message was (and still is) "Fine tailoring is a trade that is still handed down from master to apprentice, and there is really no other way to truly learn it."

Which sounds rather snobby on the one hand... but on the other I think the real issue is not that the knowledge can't be communicated by any other means than old-fashioned apprenticeship, but that it's just not really worth the time and effort it would take someone to write an extensive book/shoot a DVD containing it all; there's no way it would ever sell enough copies to be profitable, so nobody's ever bothered.^

I haven't gotten into production sewing garments yet, although I do make accessories; I don't think I'll ever make a living at it, but I've done OK on Etsy and at local shows. Over the last year or so I've been thought about targeting a niche market: vintage clothing enthusiasts, but come away discouraged. While I may know how to assemble a vintage style newsboy cap or flat cap, I really don't know anything about the historically accurate details (construction, materials, etc) that vintage people would be looking for; if I wanted to establish a strong vintage style brand I would need to invest a whole lot more energy in learning all about the market, which doesn't really interest me. Similarly, even if devoted the next 10 years teaching myself traditional tailoring (cutting, drafting, sewing, fitting) I would still be lacking so much general industry/marketplace knowledge that I'd be lost trying to compete at that level.

I don't actually mean to be discouraging - these are just my observations as someone who first touched a sewing machine five years ago with similar daydreams. You can certainly learn to sew and become very good at it, and even make some money if you can find that sweet spot where you can sell your products to enough people at enough of a profit to make it worth your time and materials. But establishing a fine fashion brand requires a whole other level of knowledge outside of the nuts and bolts of actual sewing, and without making the conscious effort to immerse myself in that world (and without having the background, connections, or money to afford my own products) it's not a realistic goal. So I spend a lot of time thinking about those niches where I do have both the sewing ability and domain knowledge to tap into a market. And I try to keep making new/more complex garments; that's the other thing about apprenticeship, you spent a lot of time doing basic, repetitive tasks over and over again, far more than most people would when sewing as a hobby. Hard to become a pro at something when you can only spend the occasional evening/weekend working at it on top of a full-time dayjob.

That being said, there are some books out there on the subject of tailoring... but all of the ones I've looked at assume a fair amount of sewing knowledge up front; I've never seen a book that starts with "This is how you use a sewing machine" and concludes with "Here is your custom-drafted three-piece suit." I'm trying to work my way towards drafting by way of sewing from commercial patterns, so I can get an overall sense of how garments are constructed before attempting it myself; once you have a grasp of both technique and construction, you can start to mix and match them to get the results you want. You should definitely check out three books by David Page Coffin:

• Shirtmaking - Developing fine skills for sewing
  
• Making Trousers for Men and Women
  
• The Shirtmaking Workbook: Pattern, Design, and Construction Resources - More than 100 Pattern Downloads for Collars, Cuffs & Plackets (I've only skimmed this one so far, but it looks just as good as the other two, and covers a wide range of shirt styles, crossing over into jacket territory as well. I have it on order and can't wait to get my copy.)
  
  David also learned to sew as an adult and in the introduction to Shirtmaking he explains that the book is an exploration of how to construct fine quality, bespoke shirts in a home-sewing context; that is, without a lot of the specialized equipment or assembly line techniques that a production shop would be likely to have. It's an astoundingly thorough book, but very accessible. Making Trousers for Men and Women takes a similar approach with pants, detailing the overall construction of trousers as well as the many variations and finishing touches that can be applied to them. And if nothing else it's encouraging to see how much a person can learn on a subject as an adult!

I don't have a workspace, I just use the floor, but I can give you some book ideas. I've recently been really into learning about Haute Couture and Claire Shaeffer's books have been very helpful. I find her books super informative and easy to read, and I can easily see myself applying many of her techniques to every day sewing. The books I've enjoyed so far are Couture Sewing Techniques and Claire Shaeffer's Fabric Sewing Guide. I really want a hard copy of the latter as it's a fantastic reference, I have the kindle edition right now. She also has another fabric guide book that is much less detailed that is handy too. Another good book is Vogue Sewing which was one of my first sewing books and is a very useful reference for anyone, especially if you're following a pattern with unfamiliar techniques.

Also, don't be intimidated by the word couture. I know people generally associate it with super fancy difficult sewing, but Claire Shaeffer breaks down the techniques really nicely and I feel like I have a better understanding of how sewing works on a general level now. It's not scary and I'll definitely be using many of the techniques on my next project!

Books

These are a few of the books I used to get started.

May Martins Sewing Bible This one is new out this year, but I have a copy and it's really good.

The Great British Sewing Bee

The Great British Sewing Bee: Sew Your Own Wardrobe

The Sewing Book

The Sewing Book Not sure but I think this is an updated version of the above book.

Sew: Step by Step

Dressmaking: Step by Step

I actually borrowed most of these from the library, but I did find them all incredibly helpful.

I'm not sure where OP is based so I have used amazon.com rather than co.uk.


Videos


I would also recommend checking out youtube for sewing tutorials as well, deoending what you are interested in sewing the following Channels are quite good for basic skills and techniques:

All Free Sewing

Easy Sewing For Begginners

Missouri Star Quilt Company

Projects

The normal beginner projects tend to be along the lines of

• Pillow Case
  
• Cushion Covers
  
• Quilted Blanket
  
• Pajama Pants
  
• T-shirts etc
  
  Hope this helps a little
  

Everyone has great advice, but if you want a pattern book to read over for future inspiration that's aimed towards vintage Gertie's books are fun! Some of the patterns are more difficult than you'd want to start with but circle skirts are appropriately vintage and also easy!

There are a lot of tutorials for circle skirts, but the easiest ones just have elastic as the waistband and come together in a few hours (it gets faster when you've done a few).

Assorted tips: Buy a bit of extra fabric at first. If you don't need it you can use it for something else, but if you make massive fuck ups (like I do ALL the time still) you don't have to worry about running out.

Don't be ashamed of your seam ripper. Sometimes things just come out wonky.

If you get into a project and just hate it, you're not obligated to finish it. It's a hobby. Set it aside and come back to it or frog it (toss it) later.

Don't be afraid to touch the fabric in fabric stores. Sometimes the print is beautiful but the moment you unfold a little bit of it, it's got an awful feel. Pick something you want to have on your body for garments! Use your current clothes or vintage ones you find as inspiration for what kind of feel to go for.

Pick up hand sewing tutorials too even if you're going to buy a machine. Everything benefits from a little bit of hand finishing (especially vintage hems).

Google EVERYTHING. Anything that doesn't seem clear, Google can probably find a video, tutorial, or different instructions to help you figure it out.

Definitely. Pressing is part of the process and some of the problem may be that you haven't pressed so you can't see everything that's happening.

I know of many resources. Some of the books are expensive or hard to find. You may be able to borrow them from a library.

Online

• Cutter and Tailor: Forum created by a professional tailor. Read the section for people who are teaching themselves. There is a bibliography.
  
  
• The University of Fashion. Right now, only women's wear, but it has good tutorials prepared by professionals.
  
  
• Bob Maldonado's online shirtmaking class. I like the video on sewing a shirt sleeve placket which is free. I haven't done the course, but have an internet acquaintance who has and his work looks great. You can download the video lessons.
  
  
  
  Books
  
  
• Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket (geared to women's wear, but it has very good general instructions on different tailoring styles and nice photos)
  
  
• Classic Tailoring Techniques for Menswear: A Construction Guide 2nd Edition
  
  
• Hand stitches for the fine custom tailored garment
  
  
  
• Shirtmaking: Developing Skills For Fine Sewing
  
  
• The Shirtmaking Workbook: Pattern, Design, and Construction Resources
  Some Japanese men's pattern books can be found here and here.
  
  For Inspiration
  
  
• Tailor Rory Duffy's videos on making a suit.
  
• The Notebook, a blog by the apprentices at Anderson and Sheppard, an esteemed Savile Row tailor.
  
  I can't make a recommendation for menswear patternmaking books. I plan to take a class this spring and the teacher told me he was going to follow the basic format of a particular book, but he noted that the book had mistakes.

I currently have two books, both amazing, but if you don't have a teacher or don't already know how to make slopers then I would highly recommend Patternmaking for Fashion Design by Helen Joseph Armstrong. There's a bunch of editions floating around, but I have the 1987 and it has everything I need. Basic patternmaking techniques are not subject to trends or changing tastes, so you'll be fine with any edition.

The other patternmaking book I have is Designing Apparel through the Flat Pattern is also a good book, but I've heard people say that you need to buy a companion book for it to be useful. I've gone through a patternmaking class, so I can't comment on how useful it would be on its own for a beginner.

Best of luck to you! Patternmaking really expands your skill set; you can literally look at something and think of a pattern in your head. :D

Sewing machines - Vintage sewing machines often cost the same as brand new cheap machines and are better quality. The problem is that they require more research and legwork.

So, you will most likely want to buy new. If your girlfriend finds that she enjoys sewing and you bought a brand new starter sewing machine, just plan on getting a better sewing machine in the future. By the way, I think most are recommending the Brother sewing machine as a starter machine.

Personally, I love my 1920s Singer sewing machine (Even though my machine is almost a hundred years old, it is reliable as heck, and it will sew anything.)

Sewing kits - a few essential supplies
Avoid buying any tools made by Singer. They are poor quality and not worth the few cents it takes to buy them.

If it looks cheap, it's likely cheap.

Good companies - Fiskars, Gingher, Dritz (There are several more.)

Here's the starter sewing kit that I would want, but it's high quality. http://merchantandmills.com/products/gift/starter-set/ Geez, I still want it, and I'm not a beginner. The link is from the UK where they are located, but there are US resellers, too.

Another option is to buy each of the following sewing tools individually. Dressmaking shears (commonly known as scissors but the shape of shears makes cutting fabric easier), a package of various hand sewing needles (always good to have), thread snips or embroidery scissors, tape measure (flexible not the clunker in your tool box), some pins, and a seam ripper (essential).

A good beginner sewing book is essential and they often have beginner project instructions, too.
http://www.amazon.com/Sewing-Book-Encyclopedic-Step---Step/dp/0756642809/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417205004&sr=8-1&keywords=sewing+book

Fabric - Just so she has something to sew when she opens all her boxes, buy some fabric. For example, I would buy quilting cotton 1/2 yard each of 5 different colors. There will be lots and lots of this in fabric stores.

Thread - Buy All-Purpose thread. One spool each of Black, Tan (khaki), and white.

Those are my recommendations. There are so many different ways to do this. I think your $300 price range is definitely achievable. Mostly, I'm trying to make sure that she will be able to make something after she opens all of her packages.

Last but not least, YouTube is a sewist's friend. There's been many a time that I couldn't figure something out, and finally, I check Youtube to find that someone has uploaded a video that showed me exactly how to do what I couldn't figure out.

I did it! I had sewn a couple dresses in highschool (10+ years prior), but hadn't sewn a single garment since. I had, however, been quilting for the last 4 years and so I felt like I knew my way around a sewing machine.

I used Gertie's Ultimate Dress Book which I borrowed from the library, and it was great! Super helpful and thorough!

(Oh, and I made it knee length, which also makes it way easier.)

Did it look a bit more homemade than some people would want? Yeah, I admit that it did, but I was pleased with it, I got to make EXACTLY what I wanted and I also only had 5 weeks between getting engaged and getting married (not shotgun, I swear!), so traditional bridal wasn't much of an option.

Depending on what you are sewing here are a few tools I'm so glad I have, with a few Amazon links to versions I have.

• Cutting Mat & Rotary Blade: When I can, I prefer to cut with a rotary instead of shears.
  
• Acrylic Ruler: Great with the Rotary and to see when cutting things like bias tape
  
• Loop Turner: I like this one because you can do loooong things like lacing for the back of wedding gowns.
  
• Point Turner: Obsessed with this little thing when making bows, waistbands, etc.
  
• Magnetic Pin Cushion: As other people have mentioned, this is incredible.
  
• Thimble: If you are hand sewing any finishing details, this is my favorite thimble! (I see you have a couple, but I'm obsessed with this comfy pink one)
  
• Fray Block or Fray Check: Good for when you need to leave a raw edge on something.
  
• Snippers: Perfect for trimming threads or small things your shears will be too big for. I LOVE this pair, they are inexpensive and sharp!
  
• Good Iron and Ironing Board: Is it time for an upgrade? Press those seams!
  
  Have so much fun! Sewing has brought me so much joy and I hope it does the same for you.

New Complete Guide to Sewing for general sewing techniques.

For tailoring men's clothes, Classic Tailoring Techniques (and women's.)

For pattern drafting, Winnifred Aldrich has a great line of books.
There's also Fundamentals of Men's Fashion Design, casual and tailored. As well as Patternmaking for Fashion Design.

For corsets, Waisted Efforts and The Basics of Corset Building are good.

For making shirts, Shirtmaking.

For learning to sew stretch/knit fabrics, Sew U: Home Stretch is pretty good.

And for just having a bunch of fun with patterns, the Pattern Magic series is plain awesome. I think there's three of them out now.

Edit: thought of more!

The Art of Manipulating Fabric is great. And www.threadsmagazine.com as well as the corresponding print publication.

Well, it sort of depends on what she wants it for. If she sews primarily for herself and/or people of similar sizes, AND she wants the dress form so she can drape on it to create her own patterns, you'd want to get her a professional dress form, from a brand like PGM or Wolf. They're designed to allow you to pin fabric on top of them, to figure out how to construct a garment you don't have a pattern for. You'd pick whatever size is closest to your wife's measurements - as an example, someone with a bust of 38", waist of 31", and hip of 42" would get a PGM size 12 or a Wolf size 14, since you usually try not to go above any measurement. You can pad out a dress form, but not cut them down.

If she wants a dress form so she can check the fit or construction of garments without putting them on herself, and she often sews for other people with many differrent sizes, an adjustable form would be a fine option. Something like this or this.

Unless you're lucky and your wife has a sheet of paper pinned near her sewing machine with her measurements, you're going to have to ask her what size to buy. Or, I mean, you could go in her closet with a tape measure, find a dress you know hugs her figure, and measure at the bust and waist (widest part right under the arms and the narrowest part of the garment's torso) to figure out which size to get her. Even the adjustable ones come in a variety of sizes, because they don't all adjust to fit every possible measurement.

I'm not sure of how your wife views sewing (as a hobby, as a side gig, as a main job...) but I do think picking a dress form is a very personal decision and really depends on what she wants to use it for.

I couldn't find my old posts (weird), but here's a progression. Do not jump to the next step until you can do a really good job at your current level.

I realize it may not be possible, but look for classes or seminars.



Man's cotton shirt with collarband, collar, tower sleeve placket, curved hem.

Man's trousers in wool.

Man's vest in wool and lining fabric.

Skills related to a man's jacket (double piped pocket samples, pocket flaps, vents, pad stitched lapel sample).

Jacket.

Books:

Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing (general sewing)

Classic Tailoring Techniques for Men: A Construction Guide

Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket

Shirtmaking: Developing Skills for Fine Sewing

Online:

Mike Maldonado's shirt making videos and his video courses

The Cutter and Tailor forum (Read the section on how to teach yourself tailoring)

The Bespoke Cutter and Tailor forum (less strict than the forum above)

Rory Duffy's online videos (They are beautiful, but not in-depth enough to teach yourself).

The Notebook, a blog by Anderson & Sheppard, a Savile Row firm.

Made by Hand, a blog by Jeffery Diduch.

I have that machine, and it's awesome, but it's usually something you want as an addition to a regular sewing machine, and not as a replacement for one.

Still, I recommend Brother as a brand. I also have a Brother sewing machine. They've been great for me. Something like this one or this one would be great, sturdy machines.

You are giving me such good advice. I appreciate it! I'll definitely make a practice version. I feel like the dress will be fine even if the fit is a bit off after switching fabrics. This dress is not meant to be a precise fit at all, so it should be fine.

I have The Sewing Book, and it seems pretty thorough.

If you know what size she wears and the approximate size of the people she sews for getting an adjustable one would probably be best. It sounds like you can get her sister involved with finding the right one that will have the correct range of sizes. this is what I have and do like it. I don't sew for others though so I don't generally have to mess much with the adjustments.

You can get a nice dress form for $100-$150. get the sil involved and ask if there is one, in particular, she has had an eye on. Then if you are under budget as your SIL to help you pick out the perfect pattern/ fabric/ notions for a project your wife will be thrilled to make for herself as the first project using her new form. It will make you look the attententive and supportive SO that people with hobbies dream of.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007PBHZK0/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And right now it's a little cheaper than when I bought it! Works well. Not top quality obviously, but great for the price. Best if used for a single person (so you're not always adjusting the size- the dials will eventually wear out), but can be used for multiple sizes if needed, it just won't last quite as long, I suspect. Anyways, good luck!

Are you trying it again because you think you messed up on this one? You certainly did NOT mess up on this one. It's gorgeous! I wish I had the skills to do it. Maybe I'll try that tutorial you linked. In any case, it's definitely a job well done on your part :)!

 

My grandma on my dad's side was full Japanese and told me about this style of bodice and mentioned Tomoko Nakamichi's (the creator of this style of bodice) book called Pattern Magic way back in 2010 when the book came out. She bought the book but I have no clue where it went after she died. My grandma wasn't a seamstress by trade but she did enjoy sewing and would always support Japanese designers lol. I don't know how she heard about Tomoko Nakamichi's book but I'm glad she did so I could share it with you years later lol.

Hello! i'm looking to get into sewing and i was wondering what machine i should get. i have already done some research and know i don't want to get some cheap $20 walmart kiddie machine. I have narrowed my choice to two options i think look okay?

https://www.amzn.com/B003VWXZKG

https://www.amzn.com/B000JQM1DE

I'm am planning on making things like plushies out of fabrics like minky. And costume pieces out of denser fabrics like shag fur and vinyls. as well as stuff like fixing clothes and such. including jeans.

so basically, something that can take a little abuse(?) but i'm not going to be doing super heavy duty work i believe.

the singer machine is cheaper and looks nice, but, i don't know if i should go ahead and shell out the extra money for the brother machine. do some brands last longer than others? i know brother is a name i hear a lot.

thank you much. this is super helpful.
I bought this book which I am going to start using for projects http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1603425780/

the book you recommend looks great too.

Will you recommend buying a sewing machine right away or practicing hand stitching first before upgrading to a machine?

I AM just starting to sew my own clothing... Here are a few things I'd enjoy:

• rotary cutter and LARGE self-healing mat
  
  
• nice scissors, nice snips
  
  
• fold over elastic / other fancy types of elastic
  
  
• interfacing in various weights, just to have around
  
  
• I have and love this loop turner (http://www.amazon.com/Dritz-647-Loop-Turner/dp/B005570Z9O/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1418574615&sr=8-4&keywords=tube+turner)
  
  
• french curve ruler if she's interested in pattern drafting
  
  

You buy a dress form that is two sizes smaller and build it up with batting. It is a lengthy process.

http://blog.gorgeousfabrics.com/2012/09/22/getting-close-on-the-dress-form-double/

http://blog.gorgeousfabrics.com/2012/06/17/final-muslin-for-the-body-double/

A shortcut is to use the Fabulous Fit system, along with additional batting.

http://www.amazon.com/Fabulous-Fit-Dress-Forms-PFS-1/dp/B004DYF0EK?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

Someone did this for me using the Fabulous Fit system and covers. It took about seven hours. The traditional method can take at least 30.

Quality forms include Wolf, Superior, and Royal. You can sometimes find them used on Craigslist.

Spandex House has a great selection of many types. Great prices too.

There are also quick turn tools or a loop turner and tons of shortcuts like this one.

You can easily sewing elastic while making tubes or thread through with a safety pin.

I prefer Brother. I had a cheap Singer years ago, and it was so frustrating to use that I quit sewing for years. The machine can really make a difference. This is the machine that I have now, and I love it. It's very easy to use and has plenty of stitches.

This one also looks nice and has good reviews if you need a few more stitch options. This is the serger that I have, and it's so easy to use.

My Brother has an automatic threader although I just use the tweezers from my serger, and it has a drop-in bobbin. It's easy to thread, to change stitches, and to change feet. I recently started using to sew on buttons instead of doing it by hand, and that was so much faster and more even.

The serger is something that I should have bought years ago. My mom had a Singer that she hated and never used (too hard to thread). While it's not as easy as the sewing machine, I have no problem with it after watching a few YouTube videos. It's easy, fast, and it makes the seams look so much better.

What kind of sewing are you interested in? Is there something you want to be able to make? I make quilts, and I am teaching myself how to make clothing so I recently picked up a few books to help me improve my skill and I really enjoy them.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1589235126/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1589234340/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1574327968/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933027002/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm looking for a beginning sewing machine - one that is not computerized, and under $130. I was told (in my sewing class) to look for one that has the ability to change stitch length and width, and can sew both zig-zag and straight stitches. I'm early on in the process of looking, but so far, I've narrowed it down to these three:

• [Janome New Home Portable Sewing Machine] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O1YI3IC/ref=twister_B01G76YZ60?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• [SINGER 2259 Tradition Easy-to-Use Free-Arm 19-Stitch Sewing Machine] (https://www.amazon.com/2259-Tradition-Free-Arm-19-Stitch-Machine/dp/B0051HJ6JS?ie=UTF8&redirect=true&tag=beginnertoppicks-20)
  
• [SINGER 4411 Heavy Duty Extra-High Sewing Speed Sewing Machine with Metal Frame and Stainless Steel Bedplate] (https://www.amazon.com/4411-Extra-High-Machine-Stainless-Bedplate/dp/B003VWXZKG?ie=UTF8&ascsubtag=SH5093&linkCode=xm2&tag=thesweethome-20)
  
  Which of these is the best choice? And are there any other machines you would suggest? As a side note, I am going back to school soon, so it must be something I could store easily in my closet, and place on my desk whenever I wanted to sew.

I love this book. I saw it in a bookstore and turned every page. It's probably too complex for right now, but it could serve as an inspiration or provide projects you could work on with him.

http://www.amazon.com/Oliver-Little-Things-Sew-Accessories/dp/1584799102/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1426869583&sr=1-1&keywords=little+things+to+sew


These books look interesting.

http://www.amazon.com/Sewing-School-Projects-Kids-Will/dp/1603425780/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1426869393&sr=8-2&keywords=sewing+books+for+children

http://www.amazon.com/Kids-Guide-Sewing-Friends-Projects/dp/1607057514/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1426869393&sr=8-5&keywords=sewing+books+for+children

If he ever wants to do clothes, look at the Oliver + S site.

I have this one: Uniquely You and it's great. Better than the cheap adjustable ones. I've also very much admired this one: Fabulous Fit and have been eyeballing it since I'm not quite the same size I was when I bought the Uniquely You one.

Dritz 20420 Sew-You Dressform with Tri-Pod Stand Adjustable Up to 63" Shoulder Height, Small, Opal Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007PBHZK0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_J3NmDbRTS04SC

Sure! I bought this one. It comes in two sizes. I used some foam I already had, tape, and an old bra to make it almost identical to my body. BUT word to the wise, adjustable forms like this are made with a thin fabric covering hard plastic panels. You can’t push pins into it, but you can slide some pins in sideways.

But for the price and utility it’s a good fit for hobbyists.

It's an ABU uniform. I'm trying to replace the cargo pocket button with some velcro for easier access.. Is there anything you guys recommend that would be better than this heavy duty?

I tried to practice using an old uniform that was full cotton.. I believe my current uniforms are 50/50 which will probably be easier to sew on.

I paid about $140 shipped for it.


SINGER 4411 Heavy Duty Extra-High Sewing Speed Sewing Machine with Metal Frame and Stainless Steel Bedplate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003VWXZKG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0rC3xb62J2CPP

I love the book One Yard Wonders. It has a great variety of projects, from cute plushies to clothes for grown-ups and kids to household items. Plus, it includes all the pattern pieces. It's really good for beginners, but not so simple that your friend would get bored with it.

> You will end up spending hours and hours practicing the same techniques over and over again. You will want to quit at times and need to motivate yourself to carry on and push through to the end.

Very true, and I don't even have professional aspirations.

Vintage Couture Tailoring is another good book.

http://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Couture-Tailoring-Thomas-Nordheim/dp/1847973736

I totally agree and wanted to add for pvc, leather, or unpinable materials just use clips! Either cheap binder clips or quilting clips like these Clover ones. I used to work in a leather sewing shop and we use clips if we needed them at all. Really got used to sewing things without pinning.

https://www.amazon.ca/Clover-Wonder-Clips-Standard-Size/dp/B004ZKPX8A

It's good to avoid things that can gum up your machine. Useful in a pinch or really tricky things but good to try to just sew it the old fashioned way and develop your skill at holding materials with your hands.

The professional cutters I work with just use weights and pins and they make world class costumes for film and theatre. Just takes practice.

I'm a relative noob too, but I've been getting by with an inexpensive Brother sewing machine that I bought on Amazon and it's been working great for me. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005GXPOAM

I always recommend the Reader's Digest Guide and Vogue Sewing to anyone looking to start a sewing library. They cover very similar ground, so take a look inside each. I prefer Vogue most of the time, but it all depends on how she learns best.

New pins are always appreciated, I know I'd love some! And if she sews with pleather or satin or uses a lot of bias tape perhaps some clover wonder clips.

Glad i could help, if you have any other questions about it feel free to ask.

I was on mobile and about to go to sleep when I posted so I couldn't link it, but here it is now: Dritz Sew You. Comes in a small, and a medium. I went with a small. My size is at the high end of the small and the lower of the medium, so I picked the small so if I lose weight I can still use this form, and if I gain weight I can just pad it to make it bigger. (Can't make a dressform smaller but you can add to it to make it bigger).

There's also this one that comes in larger sizes if you are a bigger lady, here, It costs more though.

I like the book "One Yard Wonders" - http://www.amazon.com/One-Yard-Wonders-Sewing-Fabric-Projects/dp/1603424490/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322711978&sr=8-1

also, check out http://sew4home.com/ - i made a lot of patterns from this site, it's a great source!

The book we used when I took pattern drafting classes may be dated by now but it was great for seeing just what the heck is going on in pattern drafting. Besides, the math of fitting a 3-dimensional human body with 2-dimensional fabric isn't ever going to change: "Designing apparel through the flat pattern" https://www.amazon.com/Designing-Apparel-Through-Flat-Pattern/dp/0870057375/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1467818440&sr=1-1&keywords=designing+apparel+through+the+flat+pattern

I own the following books and classes (maybe more):

Vintage Couture Tailoring

Singer Tailoring

Alison Smith Essential Guide to Tailoring

Pam Howard Modern Jacket Techniques

Suzy Furrer Drafting the Tailored Jacket or Coat

​

That said, haven't sewn a jacket...yet! But I think I'm ready, LOL!

Thanks! The bags are out of this book which has some really cute projects in it.

A few months ago, I got this one:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OLNDFOK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

with this:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B004DYF0EK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Together under your $200. I really really like the whole system. Plus, it looks so cool standing in my sewing room :)

I have an old Vogue Sewing book. It is fantastic for techniques and fabrics and pattern help.

http://www.amazon.com/Sewing-Revised-Updated-Knitting-Magazine/dp/1933027002

This is my go-to book when I need an answer.

A lot of the supplies for sewing are specific to the type of sewing and personal preference, so it is tricky to give suggestions. Items anyone can use, IMO, and some themed to Valentine's Day, are Clover flower pins, Wonder clips, a pretty pin cushion, seam gauge, and an acrylic ruler in my favorite size.

You would try it on, but it would fit skintight. Some slopers have a little ease built into them.

A sloper is like a template for a pattern without seam allowances. You make changes to it to develop a pattern. A block pattern is a basic pattern with seam allowances. The online University of Fashion has sloper lessons.

Sloper book for fashion design students:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0870057472/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687542&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=0870051474&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=XWHF3N3QTAEXBRBPMPSS

Pattern making book using the slopers:
https://www.amazon.com/Designing-Apparel-Through-Flat-Pattern/dp/0870057375/ref=pd_sim_14_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SX1RJG2WH9Q7QC2G0X2M

I absolutely love my sewing machine, and it's only $160!

Get a book like this, some muslin or light colored fabric, dark thread and sew samples. Set zippers, sew darts, button and buttonholes, curved seams, French seams, top stitching etc. if you really want to do this it is important that you work on technique. Tailors will do dozens upon dozens of sample welt pockets before they do a real one.


http://www.amazon.com/The-Sewing-Book-Step-Step/dp/0756642809

>the crotch. If you turn a pair of pants inside out and look at the crotch, you'll notice it sort of curves. You'll have to follow that curve, whereas the outside seam would just be straight.

OP if you do attempt to alter in this fashion I highly suggest that you seek out a book or two on tailoring techniques.

Classic Tailoring Techniques: A Construction Guide for Men's Wear (F.I.T. Collection) By Roberto Cabrera Buyitonamazon

Classic Tailoring Techniques: A Construction Guide for Women's Wear (F.I.T. Collection) By Roberto Cabrera Buyitonamazon

Also the Cutter & Tailor forums is another excellent resource for menswear

I recommend David Page Coffin's shirtmaking or trousers books. Plenty of helpful tips, equipment suggestions, guides on how to do small things, and you'll be able to wear what you make.

Shirts: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1589238265/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VafJDbJPXMT7P

Pants: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1589234499/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HbfJDbGG1FTAA

Judging by your posting history in this sub, I highly recommend you invest in a shirt-making textbook, like The Shirtmaking Workbook by David Coffin.

I have one of these and it's awesome: http://www.amazon.com/Dritz-626-Magnetic-Seam-Guide/dp/B000YZ8N6Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1367773480&sr=8-1&keywords=sewing+straight+magnet

Perhaps a company like this one. It looks like Amazon sells that brand for a bit cheaper. You could watch for a sale. I don't know if there are other brands. A quick google search only reveals the one.

Magnetic seam guide, sticks to the metal plate on your machine to align your fabric and help you sew straight.


Magnetic Seam Guide


And also just practice!

I've bought my last three sewing machines off of Amazon - it will be fine. :-) I currently have a SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist that works amazingly well. It was a warehouse deal off of Amazon so I ended up paying a little less that the current listed price.

Back in the states, I have the Singer Heavy Duty 4411 which is a little work horse.

Almost ten years ago now, I bought Singer Heavy Duty 4423. It was the reason I ended up buying the 4411 six years later. After doing hundreds of sewing projects on this thing over the course of six years, it finally started to act up. It was cheaper to buy a new machine than it was to fix this one - there was a problem with the lower tension that I just couldn't set properly. Still, because it worked so well for so long - it was the first machine I had that lasted me longer than a few years- I stayed with the brand.

EDIT: I should also add, I've had lots of things shipped from the US Amazon to my APO address - no issues. If they can get things here in one piece, then I'm sure you will be fine.

My incredibly kind mom made this dress for me as a birthday gift :D! She used a combination of patterns from Gertie's Ultimate Dress Book: three-quarter circle skirt, princess seam bodice with a modified boat neck, and modified basic sleeves. The fabric is raw silk and was bought at a craft store in my grandma's town, so I have no idea if it's sold anywhere else.

Is it something like this magnetic seam guide?

Probably talking about Wonder Clips. Which I am a big fan of. Anytime I can, I will use clips before using pins. Only because I get super irritated when I accidently stick myself with a pin. I believe the big brand is Clover. I personally cheaped out and got these Mumcraft ones. You get more for less money. Judging by the pictures, they are the same size and almost the same shape as Clovers. They definitely function the same. I've been using them for awhile and no problems yet.

The first picture looks like a surplice bodice dress, similar to one in Gertie’s ultimate dress book.

Simplicity 8127 is very similar to your second picture. Obviously without the sleeves and the bows on the front.

Off the top of my head I can’t think of a pattern for the third image but would suggest looking at other Gertie patterns if you’re into 50’s style dresses.

Get a magnetic seam guide.

230 People already reviewed this machine on amazon.

I have this book: http://www.amazon.com/One-Yard-Wonders-Sewing-Fabric-Projects/dp/1603424490/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344757073&sr=8-1&keywords=one+yard+fabric+projects because I have a problem with buying single yards..I haven't made anything out of it but I have plans to!