Friday, October 2, 2015

Broke Butt Basics: Using a Sewing Machine

My Granny Rose taught me to sew when I was a little girl. Every time I would go visit, she and I would usually end up playing with her fabrics. She started me out with a little Strawberry Shortcake tin and some tiny scraps that were as precious to me as the multi-colors jewels they so resembled. By the time I was nine, I had graduated up to being able to use her Singer peddle machine... a hefty thing of ancient beauty and mystery that I had been fascinated by forever. She let me choose from the yardages she had neatly folded into the green, built-in drawers of her craft room, and told me to "make myself something pretty". Well, I don't know how pretty it was, but I chose brown corduroy and a ivory and brown printed cotton, and proceeded to create a skirt, vest, and coordinating shirt. There was no pattern involved, just me, the machine, and bits and pieces of advice as I would ask for it. That day transformed me in a very real way. It showed me that I could do anything I set my mind to. I've absolutely loved sewing ever since.

Based on my experience, it has always been a little shocking to me to hear friends say they have never sewn, or that they had and didn't care for it or, worse than anything... They couldn't do it. Guys! Never, ever say you can't! I promise that you can! Mama is about to show you how.

Now, I know what you are thinking. "Mama, why on earth do I need to learn how to sew? Seriously? Do you not know what year it is?" Hush up and listen. Have you ever needed anything hemmed? Taken in? Have you ever torn a seam? Is it more expensive to sew those things yourself or take them to a tailor or replace them? Ahhhh! See. Told ya! Even if you never do it for fun or to create gifts, or clothing, knowing how to sew a thing makes life a little easier. I will eventually go over hand sewing, reading a pattern, and other things like that, but for today, let's just look at what the machine does and how to use one. Watch this video:

 

No matter the type of stitch being used, this is how all of them connect. Your top thread and your bottom thread (or bobbin) are basically looped over each other. Each thread needs to have the right amount of tension for the stitch to turn out right. Although every machine is a little different, they will each have the same basic dials or buttons to allow you to make adjustments to both the top and bottom threads, as well as to change the stitch length and type. Check out the picture below. This is a really great diagram from www.sewingschool.org. This is a great site for a beginner, because they break it all down into easily digested nuggets. 

 Anatomy of a Sewing Machine
I have taught several people how to sew, including my own daughters (to varying degrees of interest), and my first lesson always focuses on learning the machine you are working with. Once you know what the basic terms and functions are, then you can sit down in front of the machine you will use. Pick up that owner's manual and get on friendly terms with that bad boy! With just a little effort, you will be forming a friendship that will give immeasurably to your life and budget. 

Y'all, I sure hope that this has helped you. I'm cheering you on! Remember, Mama loves you!

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