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It Beats Me
I don't know why I can't get my head around sewing, but I can't. I am completely intimidated by the process. I was meant to be having an art date with a friend today. When he had to cancel I thought I would have a go at a "simple" tote bag. That's right "simple". Anyway, the photo below is as far as I got.
I can't even work out how to cut out a straight 33" x 14" panel. Luckily for me, Reenie-Su offered to give me some sewing lessons. I'm off to e-mail her and say yes please.
I don't know why I can't get my head around sewing, but I can't. I am completely intimidated by the process. I was meant to be having an art date with a friend today. When he had to cancel I thought I would have a go at a "simple" tote bag. That's right "simple". Anyway, the photo below is as far as I got.
I can't even work out how to cut out a straight 33" x 14" panel. Luckily for me, Reenie-Su offered to give me some sewing lessons. I'm off to e-mail her and say yes please.
14 comments:
Once you have started you will probably find that it all begins to get much easier. Grab lessons from anywhere they are offered 'cause there is always something new to learn. Good luck and looking forward to seeing the tote bag in all its finished glory.
We should start an "It beats me" club! Straight cutting is still a mystery to me too! Perhaps Rennie-Su or some other kind like minded person could give an online tutorial? I really like the fabric you have chosen by the way.
Hey Cathy,
I find the easiest way to cut things is with the big square quilting rulers, a cutting mat, and a rotary cutter.
http://www.rulersmith.com/quilting.html
There's a good pic at the link above. I have a few different varieties, square and rectangle. It makes it so much easier to cut straight.
I forgot to add that if the piece of fabric is quite large, then you can fold it over once or twice and the rotary cutter will still slice through really easily.
It really does get easier - hang in there! Those square rulers Curlypops mentioned are great, I couldn't live without mine. Three Buttons has a 'sew your own' tote making kit - her instructions are super duper easy. Maybe give that a go?
I know you can do this! For me the major obstacle to learning how to sew was (because I'm a perfectionist) my fear of messing it up. Once I got over that (am still getting over it actually) I was free to jump right in. Not everything turns out right, in fact some things turn out really bad, but then I just take a deep breath and, if I can, start all over again.
So, if neurotic little me can do it, I know you can do it! And, how generous of Reenie-Su to offer you some lessons!
Keep at it and you'll be a fantastic sewer in no time...i wish I had the patience! my mother is a wonderful seamstress - wish i had the time for her to teach me...
I know you can do it too. I taught myself (at a much younger age, I'm afraid) and did all sorts of things that now I think...did I have a clue?? e.g hot pink satin pants suit with lace overlay on the tunic top. 70s... And my crowning achievement, a full length wool plaid empire waist jumper - maternity time - and I matched ALL the plaid and did the bodice on the bias. I had no fear, tho I might have.
But today..Photoshop Elements is my "It beats me!?!?" demon, so I do get it.
I hope the lesson goes well. I meant to say when you first showed that fabric that I used to have that very sheet when I was a girl.
Many thanks for all your comments on my blog - let me know your e-mail address and I'll send you a wonderful scone recipe, guaranteed to work!
I love all the fabric you got sent the other day - how generous is Curly Pops?!
keep going - practice makes perfect - sad but true ... I used to feel the same way - but then I got Bernie and he now does everything at a touch of a button with very little argument!
There is nothing like a buddy to help you through. I am terrible at sewing and if I ever manage anything, it is generally because I have had a helping hand. Or good advice at the very least. Good luck with the tote!
I think you just need to remember that even though there are plenty of things that *look* simply perfect on someone else's blog, that we all have crooked seams, or spend hours with the seam ripper or have spent years getting there!
Hang in there, I know you can do it!
Hi Cathy! I'm the same! I have SO many unfinished attempts at making clothes lying around because I'm not 100% sure what I'm doing and I feel intimidated. I don't want to be intimidated though, and I'm sure it must be fabulous to whip up new things at the drop of a hat.
When Serena was here the other day she mentioned that she'd offered you some sewing lessons. We thought it might also be fun to catch up in a small group some time - another local stitch 'n' sew 'n' nibble 'n' chat group. Let us know if you'd be interested ....
x J
BTW - thanks for your comments on my blog. You asked how I know Serena .... she's a friend of my husband's from work :-)
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