Beginners Sewing Course - Day 1 - The Basics

Summary

In this first tutorial of the Beginner's Sewing Course by Ana from Made to Sew, viewers are introduced to the basics of setting up a sewing machine. The video covers essential techniques like threading the machine, winding the bobbin, and choosing the right needles and threads for various fabrics. Ana demonstrates these steps with a Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116, offering clear instructions for beginners. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of using proper tools and maintaining your sewing machine for optimal results. This video sets the stage for a successful sewing journey, with more tips to come in subsequent lessons.

Takeaways

• 😀 Thread recommendation for beginners: 100% polyester thread is ideal for most projects, offering durability and a professional finish.
• 😀 Be cautious of cheaper polyester threads, as they can be fluffier and break more easily; they are better for non-critical projects.
• 😀 For a professional finish, use Gutermann 100% polyester thread, known for its smoothness and strength, available in various sizes and colors.
• 😀 Choose the appropriate needle size for your fabric: smaller sizes (7-9) for lighter fabrics (like silk), and larger sizes (16-18) for heavier fabrics (like denim).
• 😀 Regularly check the needle for damage, and replace it if it's bent, blunt, or causing issues like puckering in the fabric.
• 😀 For special or lightweight fabric projects, always start with a fresh needle to ensure a smooth and professional result.
• 😀 Most sewing machines come with an assortment of needles, but it’s important to choose the right one for each project to avoid damaging the fabric.
• 😀 Familiarize yourself with your sewing machine’s basic components: stitch settings, stitch length and width adjustments, reverse button, and hand wheel.
• 😀 When winding a bobbin, make sure to position the spool correctly, and use the right size bobbin for your machine for smooth winding.
• 😀 Be mindful of thread direction: cross-wound thread should be placed on a horizontal spool pin, while stacked thread should go on a vertical spool pin.

Q & A

Why is polyester thread recommended for beginners?

Polyester thread is recommended for beginners because it is strong, durable, and smooth, making it easier to work with and less likely to break or cause issues during sewing.

What is the difference between size 80/12 and 90/14 needles?

Size 80/12 needles are suitable for medium-weight fabrics, while size 90/14 needles are better for heavier fabrics, providing more strength and stability during sewing.

How do you know which needle to use for a specific fabric?

The type and weight of the fabric guide needle choice: use smaller needles (70/11 or 75/11) for lightweight fabrics like silk, and larger needles (100/16 or 110/18) for heavy fabrics like denim or canvas.

What is the purpose of the handwheel on a sewing machine?

The handwheel allows you to manually control the movement of the needle, which is helpful for starting or stopping stitches, controlling the stitch length, or fixing any threading issues.

How do you thread the bobbin correctly?

To thread the bobbin correctly, position the spool of thread with the thread coming off underneath. Follow the machine's specific winding instructions to ensure the thread winds evenly on the bobbin.

What should you do if the thread becomes tangled or caught in the machine?

If the thread becomes tangled, stop sewing immediately. Turn the handwheel to raise the needle, and carefully untangle the thread. Make sure the threading path is correct and rethread if necessary.

How do you know if the machine's tension is set correctly?

The machine's tension is typically set to 4 as a default. If stitches appear uneven or too tight, adjust the tension slightly. A correct tension setting ensures that both the top and bottom stitches are balanced and look even.

What does the reverse/back stitch function on a sewing machine do?

The reverse/back stitch function helps secure the beginning and end of your seams by sewing backward, preventing the stitches from unraveling and ensuring the seam stays intact.

Why is it important to change the needle when starting a new project?

Changing the needle before starting a new project ensures that the needle is sharp and suitable for the fabric you're working with. A dull or incorrect needle can cause skipped stitches, fabric damage, and other issues.

How do you change the sewing machine foot?

To change the sewing machine foot, release the current foot by either pressing a button or unscrewing it, then slide the new foot into place, making sure it is aligned with the white groove on the bar before securing it.