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The Sew What’s New Archive

This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: webslave
Date: 09-28-2004, 09:46 PM (1 of 7)
I just registered, and will have alot of questions no doubt.
I've never sewed a stitch in my life, BUT, the cost of scrubs is making me a little crazy. Thats why I'm here! I'm crazy and I'm gonna learn to sew my own scrubs. Now,,,where, what, do I do now???
thanks for any guidance etc.... :bang:
wish not to engage in any controversy neither endorse nor oppose any causes
User: webslave
Member since: 09-28-2004
Total posts: 4
From: paroper
Date: 09-28-2004, 11:21 PM (2 of 7)
You've got a good thing to start with...so....

1. Get a machine...new or used. Some people have had a lot of luck with machines that they found in thrift stores if you don't have a lot of money that might be a good place to start. If you have a friend that sews, take her (or him) along and let them help you look. If you have a little more to spend or you feel that this is going to be a life-long hobby, you can check out new or used machines at a dealer...they will often GIVE lessons on how to use the machine, guarantee even a used or reconditioned machine, and often give you credit when you get ready to trade up. In addition, it gives you a reliable place to go if you have machine trouble. Or check one of the alternative spots, internet, local Wal Mart, fabric store, etc. for a new machine or a newspaper for a used machine, etc.

2. Find a good scrub pattern. Scrubs are a great place to start! The pants are not often that difficult and most of the tops are not either! There are some really cute patterns out there and the fabrics are easy to work with.

3. TAKE YOUR MEASURMENTS! Buy your pattern size according to your measurments and the pattern sizes listed. Fortunately, scrubs don't have to fit very tight...that is really nice because you don't have to "fuss" with the fit. Be aware that your finished pattern will have something called EASE in it. That is the room to make the garment comfortable. For all intents and purposes, the sizes of the pattern are now more of a reference than a size that you can relate to. Often the pattern size will be much larger than you would normally buy...it's ok...that's just the way that patterns are. Once you have made your pattern, you will be able to make decisions about the size of your next garment (if you should make a smaller or larger size according to the way it fits.) One thing that is peculiar about your garment is that every time you change your fabric it will fit you differently.

4. Buy your fabric according to the amounts given on the back of the pattern envelope. One fabric that I personally like for the pants is something called Racket Cloth. It makes great scrub pants, washes well and stands up well. The back of the pattern will also tell you what notions you might need for your view; elastic, perhaps buttons, etc. Don't forget your thread. Most thread sews in a little lighter than it looks.

5. You may want to stop by the local library and check out a basic sewing book or two. Most of what you will need is in your pattern envelope, but you may feel a little better with a good sewing book under your arm.

6. When you get this far, check back with us and we'll help you through the lay-out and fitting of the pattern.
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
From: webslave
Date: 09-29-2004, 12:42 AM (3 of 7)
Thank you so much!
With your advise, first a decent machine. Hopefully, one of the nurses at work will sell me one of her's. She used to do alot of sewing prior to becoming a nurse, now she has no time.
As for me, I work double weekends!
I'll look in the phone book for sewing shops around town etc. And look for a scrub pattern at Wal-Marts etc.
Thanks again, and will be back soon...
Tony/webslave
wish not to engage in any controversy neither endorse nor oppose any causes
User: webslave
Member since: 09-28-2004
Total posts: 4
From: paroper
Date: 09-29-2004, 01:41 AM (4 of 7)
I've been collecting patterns for my daughter to choose from. Her absolute favorite is Simplicity 5440 for a top. She likes for me to flare the pants. When I went online at Siomplicity.com I didn't find it, but it is close to pattern 9334 (It has really cute 3/4 sleeves with a slit though.) Since I can't find it, it may be phased out now. (Good thing I bought a second pattern a month or two ago.)
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
From: webslave
Date: 09-29-2004, 04:01 AM (5 of 7)
What I want is just a simple, one chest pocket top. Pants, draw string, with a cargo pocket and one in back.
Really want reversable.
The first fabric will be, hopefully, a poly, cotton. With little dead ducks, lying with their feet up, and their eyes x'ed out, with a grassy hunter green background. A cute type hunting thing. I have to have a hunter green color, at least for the pants with a blend top.
Thanks again

ps: as a pattern, can I use an old bleached up set that I can't wear no longer? Just pick out the threads?
wish not to engage in any controversy neither endorse nor oppose any causes
User: webslave
Member since: 09-28-2004
Total posts: 4
From: paroper
Date: 09-29-2004, 07:34 AM (6 of 7)
Very

Cute!
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
From: MaryW
Date: 09-29-2004, 07:54 AM (7 of 7)
Hi Webslave, welcome to Sew Whats New.

Yes, you can use an old pair for a pattern.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
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