How I did it: I sort of knew what to do by reading through the sewing machine manual, but I took a basic sewing class last year that really solidified it.  At this point I'm far from an expert seamstress, but I have the basic knowledge to do simple projects, which is really all I want to do at this point anyway.   

The nice thing about sewing is that it takes a fair bit of concentration, so it's a good excuse to declutter your mind for a bit.  I have my little sewing room set up, so when I can I send my husband out with the dog and have a nice afternoon to myself, listening to music and sewing away.  I can really get lost in it.

Lessons & tips: Don't rush!  As with anything, make sure you have enough time set aside, and enough space to be able to lay everything out properly.  Don't underestimate how much space it takes to cut fabric, I always think I'm just going to clear a little spot on my table and I wind up just bumping my elbows and knocking everything over.  Not to mention it's very difficult to measure and cut properly when you're cramped for space.   

Resources: I have a big self-healing cutting mat that's pretty handy, and I use my little 6" metal sewing ruler constantly, it especially helps to hold the seams down while you iron them, without getting your fingers in the way.  One thing I don't have that I need to get is a big metal yardstick.

Jun 08, 08:09AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers