The first question I need to address with new dressmaking students is ‘How to choose the correct size of pattern’. One of the main problems with commercial paper patterns, is that they are not sized like ready-made high street clothing. Therefore you can’t go into the fabric shop and buy a pattern in your regular dress size. Pattern sizing also varies between the different pattern companies too, so it helps to be prepared when you go shopping for your pattern.
Generation Hop
Generation Hop
This sewing class shows a generation hop. Here we have 14 year-old Sophie and her Gran (14 years plus), learning to make a fold-up tote shopping bag. This was Sophie’s first ever sewing project and she thoroughly enjoyed it. Sewing is an activity that can be undertaken by everyone, and truly spans the generations, as evidenced in this photo.
Get to Grips with Zips
![](https://www.artisanstitch.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Essential-Skills-Tuesday-group-e1437572767996-820x420.jpg)
![Get to grips with zips - How to sew in zips - a pile of brightly-coloured zips](https://www.artisanstitch.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Get-a-Grip-on-Zips-e1588692834765.jpg)
![How to choose the best sewing machine needle. A selection of sewing machine needles](https://www.artisanstitch.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Selection-of-Sewing-Machine-Needles-1-300x237-1.jpg)
How to choose the best sewing machine needles.
Sewing machine needles come in an assortment of types and sizes. Using the correct needle is important to achieve a successful outcome to your sewing project. The wrong size or type of needle can cause breakages of either needles or thread. Uneven or skipped stitches, and snags or holes in the fabric are also symptoms of the wrong needle. You should choose your needle firstly according to the purpose/project, the fibre-type and fabric construction, then the fabric weight.
Get to know your sewing machine
Get to know your sewing machine.
I had a client in for a one-to-one tutorial this week who was having trouble altering her T-shirts. She was quite short in the body and needed to take up most of her tops or they were more like mini-dresses. She’d bought a new sewing machine last year, and came to me for help convinced that the tension was wrong. The top she had recently altered had several breaks in the sewing of the hem and there were lots of skipped stitches.
Are you practising Safe Sewing?
How to practice safe sewing.
Are you practising safe sewing? If you’ve been using a sewing machine for a while and are completely comfortable with them, it’s easy to be blasé. But remember sewing machines are electrical devices and are potentially dangerous. You could also cause damage to your machine by incorrect use.
![ARe you practising safe sewing? Health and safety gear - hard hat, boots, goggles and gloves](https://www.artisanstitch.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Construction-and-safety-gear-e1588694746268.jpg)
Are You Sitting Comfortably?
![](https://www.artisanstitch.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/are-you-sitting-385x420.jpg)
I see many students who come to me because they’re having difficulties using a sewing machine and quite often the issues are very easily resolved. Sometimes the problems start the moment they sit at the machine so here’s a few quick tips to make sure your sewing session is successful, and isn’t damaging your health.