Sew What’s Up Presents
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: MaryW
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:10 AM (1 of 86)
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I began sewing 36 yrs. ago. I know, I'm a dinosaur. Totally self taught, I have sewn everything from baby things to a boat cover. Who is self taught and who has taken lessons. What type of lessons did you take and did you find them helpful? MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: Chrysantha
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:22 AM (2 of 86)
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I've been sewing for 45 yrs....my grandmother started teaching me when I was 5. ( I was already in 1st grade ). Her machine was one of those old gold and black Singers. (not a treadle). She made all of my clothes, my sister and brothers and her own...She had a wonderful sense of color and design. (and her sewing was impecable) She taught my sister to sew, but my sister doesn't really care for it. (she does own a machine, just for doing hem's and things though) Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: plrlegal
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:33 AM (3 of 86)
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I am a dinosaur. I had to take Home Economics when I was seventh, eighth and ninth grades. Other than that, I am self-taught. My mother had my grandmother's Singer treadle (the one with the bobbin shuttle that looked like a bullet) and that is basically what I learned to sew on. Like Mary, I've sewn everything from bridal apparel, lawn furniture, vinyl boat seat covers, tire covers for suvs, pretty much name it, I've at least attempted to sew it. My latest adventure with unusual sewing was sewing striped canvas drop down awnings for our patio this past summer. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: GreenDragonLady
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:35 AM (4 of 86)
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I am pretty much self-taught sewer. I did take a couple of quilting classes just to be supportive for two friends that were learning, and I took one folded kimono class because I couldn't find the directions online. I love learning new things though, so I have a ton of books. photos.yahoo.com/greendragondesigns
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User: GreenDragonLady
Member since: 07-29-2004 Total posts: 495 
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From: Sewhappie
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:42 AM (5 of 86)
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I started sewing when I was 7 - (43 yrs ago), my mom would give me the scraps and I would sew doll clothes. Most of what I learned was just watching her when she sewed. I took Home Ec in both Jr & Sr High- would always get straight "A"s in sewing and "F"s in the cooking!!!!! (HEHEHE) I hated cooking and still do to this day. I was one of those kids in the sewing class that would have outfit #3 done when everyone else was just starting to cut out #1. Much of the advanced sewing I learned at my sewing jobs over the years. I had one Supervisior that was a FANTASTIC teacher, I learned so much from that man. |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Hogmami
Date: 01-21-2005, 10:58 AM (6 of 86)
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I was taught by my mom and great aunt when I was about 7 (50 years ago). My aunt had a Singer treadle machine. My mom had an old electric Singer. I had home ec, 4-H, Girl Scouts that I also learned in. I used to sew all my clothes, than my kids. Now I quilt, make tote bags and some sewing for me. I still have lots to learn. I bought my first sewing machine, a blue Singer in 1966. I have taken some classes. I took a pillow making class for my Serger. It was very helpful. I also took a class on makine a quilted sweat shirt jacket. Very helpful. AAnd a class on making chenille. Very helpful.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800 
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From: Catalina
Date: 01-21-2005, 11:01 AM (7 of 86)
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I was around 9 ( 41 years ago) and my Mom had a Singer (which only sewed straight) which she never used and I made a pair of patchwork pillows for my art class and have sewn ever since. I also had home ec in high school, but other than that just books and a lot of trial and error. Today the internet and message boards such as this one are great for sources of inspiration and knowledge.  Penny
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User: Catalina
Member since: 01-06-2005 Total posts: 119 |
From: twohands
Date: 01-21-2005, 11:18 AM (8 of 86)
| Wow, I am amazed out how much of a life long thing it has been for so many. I have only been sewing for a year and have been working from books checked out from the library. Do you think lessons are beneficial or do you think just experimenting and learning from experience is best? I would like to learn tailoring. I have looked at taking lessons but, between the cost and my schedule, I just can not right now. |
User: twohands
Member since: 01-16-2005 Total posts: 12 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 01-21-2005, 11:24 AM (9 of 86)
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I, like most of the sewers I know, started with doll clothes -- hand made from my aunt and mother's rag bags. My mother had a sewing machine and used I remember her sewing a little but not a lot. Then I took the required home ec sewing units in high school. Girls had to take it every year. I remember making a dress out of one of those India cotton bed spreads that were popular in the 60s. I used a choir robe pattern. It turned out great and I got an A. They kicked me out of school for wearing it because it was too short. I was pretty ticked off about that one. Mostly I am self taught. I really credit a 3rd grade teacher, whose name I can't even remember at this point, for introducing me to the joy of working with textiles. She made the whole class learn to knit, either with needles and/or a kind of homemade loom. My parents had just divorced and we'd moved to the new district and I think this got me through that tough time just as sewing, needlepoint or other textile arts have helped me keep my sanity through many hard times. I know most of us are a little nuts, but I really feel bad for people who don't have this textile thing we all "suffer" from. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-21-2005, 11:29 AM (10 of 86)
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"I know most of us are a little nuts..." ROFLMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Serenity
Date: 01-21-2005, 12:00 PM (11 of 86)
I am almost a dinosaur...lol. I have been sewing for over 25 years now. I learned at the foot of my mom. I have taken 2 classes in the last 25+ years. One over 15 year ago for pattern drafting. And the other was about 3 years ago for heirloom sewing. Serenity "The struggle is not greater than the goal". Be blessed. Stay encouraged.
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User: Serenity
Member since: 01-12-2005 Total posts: 85 
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From: KayTee
Date: 01-21-2005, 12:22 PM (12 of 86)
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I started sewing in Grade 8 home ec classes. By the time I got to high school, I was the only Grade 12 in a class of grade 11's so I just did my own program. I sewed outfits for my younger sisters; my mother bought the fabric and I sewed. It's just always been my thing. When my DD graduated from high school and her friends were all looking at $ 400-$500 grad dresses, she'd just shrug and say, "my Mom can make that for a quarter of that". Now we're looking at wedding gowns for same DD so I'm learning beading so as to be able to make the gown. I really don't know what I'd do with myself if I didn't sew. It's always been such a big part of my life. What constantly amazes me is the absolute creativity of the people out there - very talented! |
User: KayTee
Member since: 12-06-2002 Total posts: 98 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 01-21-2005, 12:42 PM (13 of 86)
I think I came out of the womb sewing.  The first sewing I remember doing was handsewing Barbie clothes from the legs my mom cut off our pants when summer rolled around. I learned machine sewing on an old Singer treadle from my mom. I took home ec in seventh grade but decided that I knew more than that teacher had to offer (I had already sewn most of my own dress for my sisters wedding so I thought pillows and such were beneath me). So in 8th grade I made a statement and became the only girl to take industrial arts. It was quite interesting. Then I went several years without any "lessons". My mom continued to help me with what I needed to learn. My senior year of highschool I needed some blowoff classes so I took sewing. I was a senior in a class full of freshmen. This teacher challenged me. Even though I was taking a beginner course and had to do the easy assignments she helped me with my more challenging sewing that I was doing at home. I haven't had any lessons since then. It has been learn as I go. I am taking a class at Hanncock next month on pattern fitting. If I like it I may start signing up for more classes. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 01-21-2005, 01:15 PM (14 of 86)
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I started sewing my own clothes @ 10. Taught by my Mom & Grandma. I took Clothing class in Grades 10, 11 & 12. I was teachers aid in the same class for 2 years. Mostly I was self taught. I made clothes for my self & my sisters growing up. Patchwork quilts, stuffed animals & home dec items. My most unusual sewing was a 6 foot gorilla when I worked @ JoAnns. We hung it from the ceiling & had it hold differnt signs for the holidays. I got my picture in the newspaper with it. My nephews used to sit on it to read books when I took it home. When I got married we didn't have room for it so I took the stuffing out & my husband used it for a halloween costume.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: toadusew
Date: 01-21-2005, 01:18 PM (15 of 86)
Even though I took home ec in 7th grade and made an apron, and then went to a 2 week sewing class the summer after that, I'm mostly self taught. That 2 week class was horrible! They had hired some teenage girl who sat in front of the room and did very little else so most of my time was spent "un-sewing" and I had headaches every day. As a result, I did not sew again for about 22 years. Then when my youngest daughter was 5 or so, I wanted to learn to hand smock and the friend who taught me that told me that I would either need to learn to sew so I could put the dress together once it was smocked, or I would have to pay someone else to do it. I decided to learn to sew!  The dress was a solid red, smocked in white, and I chose a Christmas print to make a blouse to go with it. I pinned everything on the fabric, took it to my mom, and she walked me through the process. That was my first successful project and I've been sewing ever since, which is about 13 years. I've sewing mostly children's clothing, costumes, clothing for me, and craft and home dec items. Sewing is definitely my therapy now and it has been a great stress reliever, too! I'm happiest when I'm sewing.
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: beachgirl
Date: 01-21-2005, 01:54 PM (16 of 86)
| I've been sewing since I was 27. I taught myself with a used 1947 singer & a singer sewing book. My Mom could sew anything but I wasn't allowed to touch her machine. She also quilted & sold a zillion of her all hand made quilts. Didn't teach me that either, only to do hand embroidery. When we came to Fl in 1970 I knew no one , had 3 in school & one at home. I got the used machine & went from there. Made lots of the kids clothes & home dec stuff. The book was a so helpful but also would think back how Mom did some things. Much later I taught myself to quilt by thinking back when watching Mom quilt. I do it on the machine though. I thank my Mom for passing on my love of sewing even though she didn't teach me. In a way she did just by watching her. I seldom sew clothes for myself as I can't get a good fit. Someday would like to have someone teach me how to do that. Now I need to conquer the Compulock surger I got for Christmas. It's user friendly but hope it's also stupid proof. |
User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615 
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From: Dede
Date: 01-21-2005, 02:30 PM (17 of 86)
| I was taught pretty young how to hand sew in foster care and yes it was doll clothes. When we moved with dad, he had a sewing machine and he had no clue how it worked. I didn't do much as a teenager but in my early 20's, I took a class with about 20 other students, made skirt and maybe 1 dress after that. Then nothing. I started getting serious about it in the mid 90's: took beginner sewing again, pattern making, then shirts, bathing suits, jackets construction, advanced techniques then quilting. It all gets to be so versatile and quite fun. I can't wait to retire. |
User: Dede
Member since: 03-23-2001 Total posts: 469 |
From: giggleshpd
Date: 01-21-2005, 03:12 PM (18 of 86)
| i was never taught to hand sew. My grandmother tried teaching me to machine sew. that didn't happen till i was out of high school. I did take home ec in Jr high that is where i learned most of my sewing. Other then that i am self taught. I have take 1 quilting class. and i am so glad i did. |
User: giggleshpd
Member since: 12-14-2004 Total posts: 13 
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From: pucktricks
Date: 01-21-2005, 03:17 PM (19 of 86)
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I remember doing some hand sewing with scraps of cloth in elementary school, but not actually making anything. I truly learned to sew in middle school through 4-H, and there I learned all of the basics of how to sew, and since then anything else I've learned has been self taught (which could explain some results). I've taken one class online for sewing through Costume Classroom and enjoyed that. We've just had a Bernina store opening here, but I'm due in a few months, and that's OF COURSE when all the classes I'm interested in taking are happening.......  Oh well.Ticia |
User: pucktricks
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 570 
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From: cam's gram
Date: 01-21-2005, 04:03 PM (20 of 86)
| I started sewing when I was 10 (42 years ago) -- I can still "see" the first thing I made. My mom helped me buy the pattern and fabric, showed me how to work her black and gold Singer, and tried to help me when I couldn't understand the instructions (she does not sew well). I don't remember making anything simple first. I've always made clothes for myself, sometimes more, sometimes less, and for my two children. Now I'm having a ball sewing for my DGD (2 years old). I have only taken a couple of classes on quilting. My great-grandmother was a professional seamstress, and whenever I've gotten really stuck I ask her for help -- and then it seems like I always figure out a solution. I've also got lots of books, although sometimes I wonder why since I rarely refer to them LOL. I've never really branched out into doing really unusual things, but as I get older I'm getting more adventurous. |
User: cam's gram
Member since: 10-20-2004 Total posts: 22 |
From: mamahoogie
Date: 01-21-2005, 05:06 PM (21 of 86)
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My mother taught me and my two older sisters to sew and we all still sew to this day. When I was about 15 she decided to sign me up for sewing lessons thinking that I would learn more from them then her as she was self-taught but it was a waste of money as I ended up helping the teacher getting the rest caught up so we could move on. Then when I was in early 30's I took the "stretch and sew" course as sewing with knits was the new thing then - this was in the early 80's. In the last couple of years I've had some quilting lessons and enjoy that but I hate following patterns, I always use thm as guide lines and do my own thing. They tell me at the quilt shop that I'm both creative and adventerous for a new quilter, but I'm like that with my sewing and painting and other crafts too. I can relate to the Mom making the prom dresses too. My mom and I made my junior and senior prom dresses and my wedding dress and the bridesmaids dresses for two reasons - the cost was significantly less and I had something no one else had....still the best reason for sewing I think. Violet I've decided to live forever - so far, so good.
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User: mamahoogie
Member since: 12-25-2002 Total posts: 461 |
From: sewingrandma
Date: 01-21-2005, 05:07 PM (22 of 86)
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Self taught here. I began sewing at around 7 or 8 using my Mom's machine and just making clothes for my dolls and such, then made slippers out of washcloths then graduated on to simple skirts, dresses and blouses. Had to take Home Ec in 7th and 8th grade but because I had been sewing my own clothes by then the teacher just let me bring whatever I wanted to class to sew.
Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 01-21-2005, 06:58 PM (23 of 86)
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I remember those slippers. Do you have the pattern or can you tell me where to look. I think they would be a good starter project for Dd.
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: mamadus
Date: 01-22-2005, 12:32 AM (24 of 86)
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As a little girl, my gran would give me a fabric scrap and a needle and thread and I would "sew" LOL I was probably all of 4. Then in 8th grade I took one trimester of sewing (the other two trimesters were shop and art). I made some clothes for myself in hs, then after I got married and had kids, I made clothes for my kids, and did a little quilting (learned from watching my gram) and made my daughter's dress when she was a flower girl... I did take one quilting class along the way, but other than that I'm self taught.. LIke many, I'll try just about anything, but often think I could definitely benefit from some classes.. if I could just fit them into my schedule!! Mostly I do machine embroidery and quilting, lots of totes, pillowcases,robes, etc... MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492 
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From: siwian
Date: 01-22-2005, 08:21 AM (25 of 86)
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I learned to sew 35+ years ago, from my Dad. He sewed better than my mom did. He taught her to cook and sew when they married. I made Barbie clothes first. Did embroidery in Girl Scouts. Had to take Home Ec. sewing in 7th grade. I hated it. I never understood why you HAD to pull that thread to get an even end. I wasted so much fabric trying to get the edge even. The teacher finally let me cut the skirt out. No one could tell that the edges of the fabric were uneven when I cut the pattern out. I have sewn many things-my wedding dress, matron of honors' dress, and the ring bearer's pillows, baby clothes, little girl clothes, teen clothes, as well as some pillows, baby blankets, and small backpacks-and I NEVER pull a thread to even out the ends. I was going to say I didnot have anyother lessons but I did go to a Lutterloh seminar one time. Now I use the KISS system of sewing. Peggy |
User: siwian
Member since: 12-27-2001 Total posts: 114
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From: MyGirlFriday
Date: 01-22-2005, 09:21 AM (26 of 86)
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Wow~ there is alot of sewing knowledge here!! I haven't ever taken a sewing class, never was interested in home ec and even though my Mother did some sewing when I was younger I never had the desire to sew until late last year. I had been picking up sewing patterns along the way that I thought were cute or interesting but I was clueless on sewing! After receiving a sewing machine for Christmas I just jumped in with both feet. With the assistance I have received here, from a few internet buddies (toadusew )and a couple of girls at the office I have been just going by trial and error.The goodies that I have made so far have turned out pretty good....must be doing something right. mgf~
Blessings & Smiles
Frogs have it easy....they just eat what's buggin' them. |
User: MyGirlFriday
Member since: 12-05-2004 Total posts: 288 
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From: sewingrandma
Date: 01-22-2005, 10:22 AM (27 of 86)
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Barb, sorry, but I don't remember how to make those slippers. That was 40+ years ago that I made them. Peggy, my Dad also knew how to sew. He use to sell and repair Singer machines way back before he had a family. He was the person who make all the sample pieces of clothing that hung in the shop. I don't ever remember my Mom sewing! She just had the machines. Brockie
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User: sewingrandma
Member since: 03-06-2003 Total posts: 432 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 01-22-2005, 10:35 AM (28 of 86)
I started sewing about 8 or so, barbie and doll clothes, I had one of those little orange plastic kiddie machines and it worked fairly well  , then I learned on Mum's singer (the "portable model with the wooden domed case that weighed about 70lbs) and sewed in 4-H for years. That actually was very competative here in Nova Scotia in the '80s. Since then mainly books and thread magazine and lots of trial and error, when I was living in Ohio there was lots of opportunity to go to shows and take lessons but I only did this once or twice. I did get to do a class with Peggy Sayer once (she is very cool) and with Mac Bergman (?) the embroidery guru lady (she is the one who did the scrabble outfit for the threads challange a few years ago). I never took sewing in school, did drafting and power mechanics instead
Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: Magot
Date: 01-22-2005, 11:38 AM (29 of 86)
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Domestic Science age 11 - pyschodelic purple hot pants with the scariest teacher in the school! For a first project I had to put in a zip, match the crotch seams and attach a waistband. Just button holes to go after that and you are there! Next I made a pink minidress - ah the early 70's, what fashion disasters we lived through! That was it for lessons but it taught me how to read a pattern, cut out,do all the necessary bits and pieces - zips,sleeves etc. My Mum and Dad bought me a black and gold handcranked Singer for Christmas when I was about 14 and I never looked back. Since then I have made wedding dresses,prom dresses, shirts, suits, curtains and my latest thing has been tudor costumes from scratch. Like a sketch - I'm very proud of myself and a lot of encouragement and inspiration from this site have really spurred me on back into sewing having taken a knitting break for a few years. Quilting I learnt from books and Joannes lessons on the site. I like to research a project before I start it so the internet for me is a library on tap - I love it. love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 01-22-2005, 11:51 AM (30 of 86)
I learned to sew in the 8th grade in home ec class.. I was 14.. My mom only did hand sewing and her quilt tops were appliqued.. My GM and her group did the quilting and most of my time there was in the summer and they did not do much quilting in the summer..So I never learned to quilt.. I grew up in the 30's and 40's and back then all young girls had to learn hand sewing, embroidery, and crocheting. I flunked on the crocheting because I am a leftie and my Mom could not teach me. I also flunked french knots in embroidery, same reason.. After years of frustration, when I was in my late 20's one day someone told me the trick about watching the hands in the mirror instead of straight on, and EUREKA ! ! , I could learn any handwork.. I even learned french knots to my Mom's satisfaction.. In home ec (2 semesters of it) we made an apron, a pair of PJ's, and a dress.. I made A's and B's.. I made a blue pique dress with a scalloped neckline and scallops down to the waist, and I wore that dress all thru High School.. When I graduated and went to work, I saved my money and bought a sewing machine.. It was a White and you had to turn the wheel the wrong way to begin sewing.. I hated it, sold it to my Aunt.. Rented a Singer featherweight portable from the Singer place.(you could rent with option to buy and your rent went as down payment, if it was 3 months worth, so that is what I did) I still have "Old Faithful". (purchased in 1957) I have attended a lot of seminars and demos, etc. over the years and seen most all the greats at shows or on TV.. I learn something new almost every day.. I still love sewing, most of mine in the early days was to save money, but now I just satisfy my urge to be creative. I sew for pleasure and therapy. I am 70 now and sew almost every day.. Yesterday I made 2 pillow cases for myself out of a beautiful print I bought at Mary Jos just because it was beautiful.. First thing I have made for myself in a while.. I have the privlige of making the welcoming gifts for newborns at our church. I always make Libs Bibs and at least a couple of baby washcloths, and if I have the Flannel, I serge a receiving blanket or 2 for them also.. 
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Writer
Date: 01-22-2005, 12:11 PM (31 of 86)
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I started sewing in 7th grade home ec class. I took a sewing class every year until I graduated. But that being said I am a stubborn person and usually did things my way. I've made my clothes, baby clothes, children's clothes. I tried to reupholster a chair once. For someone with no lessons on that they turned out passable. I tried pattern drafting software and that didn't go well so I'm back to trying to figure out how I can make a premade pattern fit better. That seems easier than exercise. Diana |
User: Writer
Member since: 01-16-2001 Total posts: 184
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From: Emmy
Date: 01-22-2005, 01:53 PM (32 of 86)
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I took sewing lessons in grade 7 & 8 Home Ec. I learned to sew before that, and did Doll clothes for my Barbie dolls, etc. I learned quite a bit about patterns from the Home Ec classes and they were really fun. We also did cooking, and home making skills too, including dusting and vaccuming, which were not as fun, :P I also had a basic lesson on using my serger when I bought it, how to thread it, how to change the settings to do various stitches and I think it was a good idea, as I was not afraid to take it out of the box and start using it as soon as I got it home. I hear that a LOT of people won't even use their serger, as they are too scared to try, and have it gathering dust, in the box, after 1 or even 2 years. Of course, no one on THIS list would fit into that category... would they? Other than that, I have been self-taught, and since I started before the first lessons, I guess I'm basically self-taught. The lessons I did have were few and far between, but I think they were all worthwhile. I have taught freinds, and family sewing of various types too. So I've been on both the learning and teaching end. My very first project was a pot holder bound with bias tape, and quilted, done for my Mom. She still has it, kept it as a keepsake. Next I did doll clothes on my Singer Little Girl's Sewing Machine. Then learned clothing in Home Ec and have gone on to clothes for myself, friends, family, plus toys - dolls, stuffed animals, puppets, and much more, accesories such as purses and totes, garment bags, and sorts of gifts, a 5 peice hand-tailored wool suit, several other suites, a wedding gown, bridesmaid's gown, veil, formal wear, camping gear, casual wear, pet gear, pet beds and toys, curtains, drapes, bedding and a bit of upholstery. I created my own wedding gown design, and have designed tops, blouses, coats, purses and totes, and lingerie, just about anything I need, that I can't get a pattern for. No formal training, just experience. I'd like to learn more about upholstery and recover some chairs, but I need a bigger work area for that and some supplies that I can't get locally. Someday... I've been sewing since I was a kid, and now make all of my own clothes, because of fitting problems. Last year I finally did some pinch pleated drapes for our living room, and heavy blackout liners too. Since then I've done more clothes. I made a DTD a couple of years ago and I just love it. Makes fitting so much easier! I've done some designing from draping on the DTD and really enjoyed it. I want to make a DTD for my husband and daughter, so I can do more sewing for them. If you are contemplating lessons, I'd say try 2 and see how it goes, if you can make that sort of arrangement. Emmy 
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User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127 
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From: SummersEchos
Date: 01-22-2005, 03:52 PM (33 of 86)
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I too have been sewing for 40 years. I learned watching mom and like many had the good ole home ec class. I had already made my winter coat which was the long granny coats. I loved that coat it was grey wool and had bound buttonholes. When I wore it to school the home ex teacher wonder what I could do during the sewing part of the class. I took a sewing class once to learn quilting, but after 3 weeks the teacher became ill and I never went back. The class was more of a gab session, than a sewing lesson. One class I would like to take is the Martha Pullen classes. I really like that era of sewing and would like to learn first hand all the tips and tricks. Summer Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: Holly Berry
Date: 01-23-2005, 06:17 AM (34 of 86)
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I remember holding my first needle at 6, but took a class in the 70's to make a top and from there I never looked back. It's a passion for me. If I can't sew I like to read about it. If I'm in a bad mood a walk through Joanne's or Hancocks can turn me around.
Holly Berry
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User: Holly Berry
Member since: 09-10-2003 Total posts: 77 
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From: smessier
Date: 01-23-2005, 10:51 AM (35 of 86)
I had beginner sewing lessons when I was 12...38 years ago.  I made a simple sleeveless dress with a zipper in the back. This was a class through the Singer company with just my friend and I in it. My friend did something wrong with hers...missed putting the zipper in the back..I'm thinking she may have cut the back on the fold...because the teacher had her put the zipper under the arm and put buttons on the shoulder to get in and out of the dress. Anyway, since my friend needed so much help, I basically taught myself after learning to read the pattern. Over the years, I've made so many different things. As a teen and young adult, I designed and sewed a lot of my own clothing...mostly funky swing coats and hippie dresses and skirts, and of course loads of patches on my jeans. (I'm really dating myself!) Later, I sewed shirts for my husband, tons of clothing for my kids, curtains, duvet covers and covers for ottomans, a slipcover for a sofa...dolls, hats, purses...and I don't know what else, but I'm sure there's more. Oh, I did a quilt once...just once...hated it..but maybe if I took a quilting lesson it would grow on me. I'd also love to take an upholstery lesson. My living room set is getting worn and I really would like to re-upholster that myself. What memories! Sandy |
User: smessier
Member since: 09-03-2004 Total posts: 114 |
From: paroper
Date: 01-23-2005, 02:06 PM (36 of 86)
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My mother and grandmother sewed a lot. My grandmother was very frugel and she would use old worn out dresses dresses to piece into other dresses when they wore out. She would do the same to night gowns and her sheets. Grandmother would then take scraps left over from her worn out dress parts and make quilts. I grew up taking apart flour sacks for her. She did a lot of crochet and "pulled work". She was an absolute marvel. Most of her work was done on an old treddle machine that she gave away when mother gave her the Wards machine we had at home and got a gray Touch and Sew of her own. Grandmother couldn't believe her luck to have such a fine electric sewing machine! Try as she might though, she and my mother could never teach me to sew. I tried 4-H and dropped out because I couldn't make an apron and my mother just couldn't teach me. In high school we were required to take 4 year of home ec. I loved it. The first year we had to make a skirt and blouse. If we had time and finished early we could start another garment but we could only sew in class...and that meant that every seam was inspected. The teacher would hold the seam up and look down it...then we had to pick out (with a straight pin)anything that wasn't in line. She NEVER allowed a seam ripper in class. The first year I made a skirt, blouse and 2 dresses during the time that most made a skirt and blouse. By the second year I made a dress and coordnating coat. I had found my nitch. My high school teacher was one of the best seamstresses I ever found. I majored in home ec in college and I learned a lot, but the best sewing skills and habits I ever learned were from my high school home ec teacher. 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: Magot
Date: 01-23-2005, 02:42 PM (37 of 86)
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I'm with you there Pam, any good habits I have are from my Domestic science teacher- she would NEVER let us take anything to a machine that was pinned, inspected every seam,taught me how to invisible hem and the fine control of using a sewing machine. She was also keen on making sure that all the girls in her class could cook on gas, electric and an agur. It was my Dad who taught me how to knit and I was in on socks fairly young!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: sable
Date: 01-23-2005, 11:04 PM (38 of 86)
One thing I do remember from my early days was the buttons I hand sewed onto Grandad's PJ's (I must have been about 8), he always said my buttons would outlast the PJ's, and he was right!  I remember learning machine sewing at school and home, grainlines were never mentioned at school, but very important at home. The machine I learned on has been lent to me by my Mum. It's a Bernina record 830, a little basic in today's standards, but an excellent straight stitch. I rarely use my Elna which is much younger and has more stitches. It just doesn't match up for the basics. That will be my trade when I upgrade. One of the first outfits I made was a tiered mini skirt, I loved it and wore it out! Thinking back on it, yuck! Nowadays I sew my families clothes and have just started on fitted nappies which I am planning to sell. |
User: sable
Member since: 01-10-2005 Total posts: 76
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From: momto7
Date: 01-23-2005, 11:23 PM (39 of 86)
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I have been sewing for years. My grandma was a seamstriss and I guess it rubbed off on me. I am the only granddaughter that sews as for my sisters I don't think they even try. I have made all kinds of clothes and have my own business. I love to sew even in the summer time. In the summer I usually do it late at night.
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User: momto7
Member since: 09-02-2004 Total posts: 16 |
From: Mother in Law
Date: 01-24-2005, 12:42 AM (40 of 86)
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Magot, I remember the early 70's. That was the disco era. Yes that was some funky dress fad, remember the platform shoes? LOL My first dress I made was an empire dress from the mid 60's. Then I made an A Line skirt and Pj's and a top. It was in 9th grade. I taught myself I guess because I didn't take home ec until 12 grade. I was making pot holders and hand embroideried things when i was around 7 or 8 but actually fooling around with a machine I was in the 9th grade. I also learned to knit in the 9th grade from a friend who made baby booties. All the guys who had cars would hang them from their rear view mirrors with the fuzzy dice, she and I made some money making those.  Other than the one year in home ec and my Mother telling me what I did wrong when I messed up that's all the formal instructions on sewing I had. After I got married I started fooling around with baby clothes and clothes for me but not all the time. Not like in recent years where that's all I do is sew. It keep me from strangling someone. So like our friend Martha would say, "It's a good thing"
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Emmy
Date: 01-24-2005, 12:21 PM (41 of 86)
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My grandmother was very frugal ......scraps left over ... quilts. ...taking apart flour sacks ...crochet and "pulled work" This reminds me so much of my Grammie. She was frugal too. She used old clothing and recut it, and later made quilts too, which she sold. She also used flour and sugar sacks to make doilies and pillowcases, etc. which she did beautiful embroidery and crochet work on. She made lovely tableclothes too. She gave these as gifts, but sold most of them. She also bought, repaired and sold all kinds of things, from Royal Doulton figurines, vases, to big trunks and chests which she relined, painted, etc. She did the flea market/ auctions in our area and bought things, then spent her week fixing them up, then she'd spend a couple of days a month selling her things at a flea market/sale barn. She'd even grow seedlings and sell them each spring. She made her living doing all this when she was retired. Her second husband did the same with tools and furniture. They were both industrious, but no one was a harder worker than my grandmother. She did braided rag rugs from old wool coats too. She was always making or doing something everyday. She baked her own bread and rolls and is the one that taught me how to make breads. I loved her egg bread, and her grape leaf rolls. I've never tasted anything as good as her breads. She always had a vegetable garden, and had row upon row of flowers all over her property. And I've never seen anyone who had so many roses! I have a few of her sugar sack pillowcases and doilies, and crocheted pieces. Her crochet and embroidery work was lovely. The recycled sacks were better quality fabric than what you often see in some new linens, so they have really lasted. I only wish she'd had time to teach me her needlework skills. I learned embroidery and crochet on my own, later on. Her generation were such hard workers and industrious. They make us look like slackers, LOL! There wasn't a needle skill she didn't have. She did weaving, beading, lace, leatherwork, everything I can think of, she could do it. I really admired her. She was a wonderful lady, as I'm sure your grandmas were too. I miss her so much. Emmy |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: paroper
Date: 01-24-2005, 04:13 PM (42 of 86)
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Emmy, my grandmother wore old cotton hose every day. Her braided rugs were made from those hose when they wore out. She had a cattle farm so she saved wire from the hay, string, almost everything that could be saved or recycled. She woke up before sunrise to take care of the livestock but either went to bed with the sunset or sat in the dark and listened to radio...often "Fibber McGee & Molly". We didn't burn firewood at night but in the morning she would wake and build a roaring fire and warm the house before I got up (if I were staying with her). She raised her own chickens and sold eggs. When they stopped laying, she would kill, pluck and cold can them...wonderful. We had lots of fresh things from the garden and she was a marvelous cook! Her light bread was straight from Heaven! When I married I moved into her house (she was gone). Every time I open the door, I can still smell her homemade bread in my mind. In the daytime, she was busy every minute and if she wasn't working, she was doing needle work..beautiful stuff!!!!
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: Mother in Law
Date: 01-24-2005, 07:20 PM (43 of 86)
| Pam those were the good ole days. They had hard work to do everyday but it was a more simplier way to live. That's the kind of life I'm striving for when I move to the country. When I want the hussle and bussle I can go to town if not I can stay home and relax to the quite of home. AWWWWWWeeee how nice |
User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Emmy
Date: 01-25-2005, 12:55 PM (44 of 86)
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When I married I moved into her house (she was gone). Every time I open the door, I can still smell her homemade bread in my mind. In the daytime, she was busy every minute and if she wasn't working, she was doing needle work..beautiful stuff!!!! You are so blessed to be able to live in her house. My grandmother was a farmer too, she had a ranch out west, and then a farm in Ontario later on. I can barely remember it, but I do remember her other houses later on, especially one that my Dad built for her. I wish it was still in the family. I have such wonderful memories of her and working in the kitchen with her. Emmy |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: mamadus
Date: 01-27-2005, 06:48 PM (45 of 86)
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I started sewing about 8 or so, barbie and doll clothes, I had one of those little orange plastic kiddie machines and it worked fairly well : FYI.. those "little orange plastic kiddie machines" were little Singers... in fact, I still have mine... and it is still in perfect working order!! MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: paroper
Date: 01-27-2005, 06:55 PM (46 of 86)
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I was watching the news yesterday. Once a week they have local people bring in "stuff" they have obtained for estimates. One lady brought in a child's Singer sewing machine. The lady gave the estimate. She said that it had been a promo in the 1950's. She said that for several years Singer gave away children's sewing machines with adult machines that were purchased. The idea was to promote young girls sewing with their mothers and that was also featured in their ads. They hoped to increase demand in adulthood with these kids. (Good plan.)
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: mamadus
Date: 01-27-2005, 07:32 PM (47 of 86)
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It tickles my funny bone to think how many of us are right around the same age...If I knew how to make a poll here i'd ask how many people here graduated from hs between '68 and '75... I'd bet there'd be quite a few from the descriptions of clothing and equipment I've been reading in everybody's posts.. its been a long time since I thought about mini, midi, and maxi lengths, and granny coats, and granny shoes...fibber mcgee and molly, sugar sacks, flour sacks, cotton hose, and braided rugs.. the reality is, most of our kids would have no idea what we were talking about if we mentioned those things... funny the memories that make up our lives!!! just my 2 cents.. MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: plrlegal
Date: 01-27-2005, 08:07 PM (48 of 86)
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Mamadus I can go you one better, I graduated from HS in 1960. I'm older than dirt. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: paroper
Date: 01-27-2005, 10:18 PM (49 of 86)
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Wow! I jealous! You had poodle skirts and CAN CANS!!!! My sister, 9 years older than I had those!!!! Loved them!
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: Mom of Six
Date: 01-27-2005, 10:23 PM (50 of 86)
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My DD(13) always tells people I am older than Dinosaurs & I graduated in 1974
Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 01-27-2005, 11:38 PM (51 of 86)
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1969 Here!!! But I can remember Poodle skirts I had a sister who was 6 years older than me and she wore the poodle skirts with the duck tail hair cuts. She won two dates through the radio station with Fabian, she won several beauty pagents one she went to a Mardi Gras Ball in Washington DC with all the rest of the beauty contest winners from all over Louisiana. I had to follow behind her with my chubby short body and tomboy ways. The best part of it all is she's older than me NOW!!!!!
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Emmy
Date: 01-27-2005, 11:56 PM (52 of 86)
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FYI.. those "little orange plastic kiddie machines" were little Singers... in fact, I still have mine... and it is still in perfect working order!! MO Mine was metal, with beige paint, and a cream worktop. I still have it and it still works. I use it when I need a chain stitch that I can rip out quickly, LOL! Emmy PS. Some of these had a beige heavy plastic case, not orange. |
User: Emmy
Member since: 09-01-2001 Total posts: 127
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From: mamadus
Date: 01-28-2005, 02:50 AM (53 of 86)
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I meant the case on mine is orange... the body of mine is also beige and metal.. and yep,, that's what it does,,, a little chain stitch... MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: mamadus
Date: 01-28-2005, 02:55 AM (54 of 86)
BTW, MO6, if you're older than the dinosaurs then I must really be old,  cuz i graduated in 1973...MO life is too short, not to explore
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User: mamadus
Member since: 12-31-2004 Total posts: 492
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From: Magot
Date: 01-28-2005, 04:45 AM (55 of 86)
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When you say graduate do you mean leave school or university - I is confuddled - 'cause we leave school at 16 or 18 and Uni at about 21. Susie- I was more of a loons and tye-dye tee shirt girl, you couldn't go to a party unless you had a long skirt and I had a green maxi coat. Laugh of it is, I now swan around in ....bootcut flares, punky tee shirts and a black maxi coat. I did wear something different in between, honest! My 21 daughter is now a hippy, it all comes around again. love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: Mom of Six
Date: 01-28-2005, 05:51 AM (56 of 86)
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I am talking High School. I didn't go on any further than that. I was 17 when I left school. Mo, My husband graduated in '73. DD doesn't think he is old just me. She doesn't say this to be mean though & only uses it around family & friends. Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115
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From: paroper
Date: 01-28-2005, 08:16 AM (57 of 86)
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Ok...I'm in..I graduated HS at 17 in 1970. I can remember walking into the HS bathroom where one of the (mean) teachers was always waiting with a ruler. We had to kneal on the bathroom floor while she checked the ruler to make sure that our skirt was no more than 2 inches from the floor...if it was more, we went home. We were not allowed to wear any pants or jeans to school until my senior year when we were allowed to wear PANTS SUITS only (teachers wanted to wear them...things changed..now the teachers wear shorts and scrubs). I remember leisure suits, tie dye, FEATHER EARRINGS (loved those), slave bracelets, moccasins, peasant blouses, long hair (guys and girls), ironing hair and rolling it on orange juice cans...peace everything, war protests, flag burning, riots, discos, Paul Reviere and the Raiders, Monkeys, Age of Aquarius....and LOVE baby. I got married in 1973 and made my husband's leisure suit for "going away" we wore WHITE shoes We have some pictures that would bring the house down of my husband in his plaid pants.
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: MartySews
Date: 01-28-2005, 08:49 AM (58 of 86)
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I graduated in 1970 but started sewing around the age of 7 my doll clothes. I used newspapers to create patterns and scraps of my mom's fabric. By 13, I was making my clothing when I took HomeEc in Jr High and made my graduation dress for my Sr photo. I took HomeEc also all 4 yrs of high school. In college, I studied tailoring and bought my first expensive fabric - 100% wool for $150 @ $35yd. That was a fortune (to me) in those days. I made a 4pc suit using a Butterick pattern. My teacher, Dr GoLightly, and I have kept in touch thru the years. The more I sew, the more I realize that there is a lot about sewing that I don't know. I have started collecting sewing books. My MIL gave me her MIL's sewing books from The Women's Institute of Domestic Arts & Science in Scranton, PA dated 1912. Evidently, she was taking a correspondence sewing course in those days. The original patterns are included in the collection of 13 books. At an antique shop, I found a collection of Singer Sewing Books - Volumes 1 - 4 written by Mary Brooks Picken for $15. A neighbor gave me one of the older McCall's sewing books dated 1942. I now have a bookcase overflowing with different sewing books. When illness keeps me from sewing, I read my books over and over. There's a wealth of knowledge in these. Now, I just have to keep practicing to improve my skills. I consider myself an intermediate dressmaker. I have made everything from baby clothes to garments to suits to slipcovers and pillows. I have even learned to knit and have attempted crochet. This year I'm going to attempt to make a quilt. However, dressmaking is what I love best. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: Writer
Date: 01-28-2005, 10:24 AM (59 of 86)
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I graduated in Jan. 1975. I spent my entire Chrismas vacation sewing clothes for college. I didn't wear them much because where I lived flannel shirts, long underware and jeans became the college uniform. : Diana |
User: Writer
Member since: 01-16-2001 Total posts: 184
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 01-29-2005, 11:51 AM (60 of 86)
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I graduated June 4, 1952, and then on June 8, I had my 18th birthday.. So, I guess I win... LOL... I'm 70 now..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: Magot
Date: 01-29-2005, 12:16 PM (61 of 86)
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Hey Libby, weird this Internet lark isn't it - I wasn't born till '57 and yet I feel we are contempories!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: plrlegal
Date: 01-29-2005, 07:29 PM (62 of 86)
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Yep Libby, you and I belong to the "older than dirt" crowd! I used to think my Mother belonged to this same group but it amazes me how much smarter and younger my mother got as I got older. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Hogmami
Date: 01-29-2005, 08:23 PM (63 of 86)
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I got you beat. I was born in 48.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800
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From: Mother in Law
Date: 01-29-2005, 09:33 PM (64 of 86)
Hey Libby.........You're as young as you feel and I'm like Jan you seem in your post like you are one of us young chicks.....LOL If I live to be 100 I'll never be older than dirt.......at least not in my mind anyway. 
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User: Mother in Law
Member since: Total posts: |
From: Sewhappie
Date: 01-30-2005, 12:44 AM (65 of 86)
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June 8, 1973 That was mom & dads wedding anniversary!!!!! I figured that since I was the youngest it was a pretty good gift. Halter tops!!!!! |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 01-30-2005, 10:55 AM (66 of 86)
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OK ladies I have been sitting here reading your posts and thinking "Gosh graduated in '73 I was just being born then!" It is funny how the internet takes away the age barriers. I honestly am shocked at the age of some of you. When I picture you in my mind you all are 40-50ish. You know just starting to grey and a few laugh line wrinkles.
Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Magot
Date: 01-30-2005, 11:55 AM (67 of 86)
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That's me to a T, can't you tell from the pictures!
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: Karebear
Date: 01-30-2005, 12:11 PM (68 of 86)
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When I was about 7 years old (51 years ago ).. I watched my mother make patterns for pinafores (sp?) to sew them for me.. Since there was nothing else to do in that small little town of 500... My mom wanted to show me how to sew, knit, crochet and cook.. She had a GREEN singer ... I wish I had that machine right now.. I look at the workmanship of some the the merchandise out there in the stores for $50 + and I just say.."take that idea, Karen, and make your own." Karen Karen
http://www.dancingwicks.com "If you want to build a ship, don't herd people together to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea." --Antoine de Saint-Exupery |
User: Karebear
Member since: 01-24-2002 Total posts: 338
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 01-30-2005, 05:32 PM (69 of 86)
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The only time I feel my age is when I'm getting out of bed in the mornings.. As soon as I have my Thyroid pill and my first cup of coffee, the years start dropping away... If I get to see the Grands that day , then I feel about their ages.. 7, 12, and 16.... Inside, I don't feel any older now than 50 years ago.. But life is a whole lot easier now than it was then.. Maybe that is why I don't feel much older..No heavy burdens to bear, nowadays..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: sable
Date: 01-30-2005, 06:15 PM (70 of 86)
| I'm 34, still feel way too young to be a Mum, or starting my own sewing business. I suspect we all feel younger than we are, after all we all still have so much more to learn about sewing no matter what our age. Maybe that's why we all get on so well here! |
User: sable
Member since: 01-10-2005 Total posts: 76
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From: vicious kittie
Date: 02-02-2005, 05:44 PM (71 of 86)
| oooooh..my first post..how exciting..ive been sewing for almost a year now..i had taken a class that was basically a "free for all"..no structure...didnt learn much...so i self taught myself alot...im still scared of some patterns and things..heh...i recently bought a serger,and im taking a class from the place i bought it..its an amazing class..its great...i also decided to take another sewing class from them..its more beginner, but with the yuck classes i had before i thought it would be best to "relearn"...its also a great class...i actually look forward to mondays..only because thats when the class is...i wish i had someone in the meantime to show me things..oh well. |
User: vicious kittie
Member since: 02-02-2005 Total posts: 27 |
From: weezie
Date: 02-02-2005, 10:01 PM (72 of 86)
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My mother was always sewing for the whole family and her real passions were dance costumes for my sister and I,plus reproducing the clothing she window shopped for in the Fashion Districts of New York City and Montreal.If she saw it she could make it happen and there really did not seem to be many patterns around our home.My Aunts and Grandmother were also needlewoman to be very proud of.Lucky for me I don't recall not having scraps for doll clothing and lessons and sewing tips from everyone but do think I was sewing before I went to school.Honestly can not give a time frame of age started. In Senior year of high school Home Ec was a must do for every girl back then and all the guys had to learn woodworking and basic auto work.The semister we did sewing I had to bring home an F on my report card which I definetly did not want to bring home.Real reason which came out after the civil war at our home was because I did not always use the teachers methods.It was her way or flunk.Glad Mom was more than willing to stand up for our rights if she felt we had done our best.I still love my needlework addiction and am in my sewing room as much as possible.Took years til our children were grown and out on their own so that I had the choice of sewing time whenever the mood strikes.But now I have 5 beautiful grandaughters to sew for.Life is Grand!! Weezie weezie
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User: weezie
Member since: 01-01-2002 Total posts: 34 |
From: Magot
Date: 02-03-2005, 03:10 AM (73 of 86)
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I had similar problems with my home ec. teacher - the Dragon - we would get our recipes for the next weeks cooking and I'd have to show it to my Dad who would tell me how to do it properly. Then I'd have to go back to school and try to do it his way whilst looking like I was doing it her way...and she had eyes everywhere. She recognised that my Dad was a chef though and used to askme sometimes how he would do things. I was fortunate that my cooking always worked and that I liked sewing and was competant at it. As I grew older I realised that she was not such an unapproachable evil old fuss budget as we all thought she was but an excellent teacher whom I came to really like and respect.
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us Cells a Speciality DNA to order. |
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002 Total posts: 3626
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From: MartySews
Date: 02-03-2005, 07:23 AM (74 of 86)
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To find a sewing buddy, one can contact their local chapter of The American Sewing Guild. Go to www.asg.org and click on the link for chapter info. Then scroll down to your state and it will list the chapters available with contact information. Hope this helps. Hope this helps. Happy Stitching! Marty
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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From: weezie
Date: 02-03-2005, 10:35 AM (75 of 86)
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I got you beat. I was born in 48. I agree that 1948 was a very good year but being a December baby I just made being born that year.Yet in many ways the communication thru the internet does wipe away the time warp and age factors whenever we are all talking about things that interest us all and you have no face or body behind the words.This is a true meeting of the minds without generation gaps. Weezie weezie
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User: weezie
Member since: 01-01-2002 Total posts: 34 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 02-03-2005, 06:34 PM (76 of 86)
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Weezie, I was taking Home Ec and learning to sew when you were born.. How about that?? Vicious Kittie-- welcome to the boards-- Glad to see another tar heel on board.. You will meet lots of nice people here, and boy , can you get good advice.. Any sewing problem can be solved here, I believe.. Lots of experience on these boards..I have learned so much here and I've been sewing for years..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: Whoshe22
Date: 02-04-2005, 02:22 PM (77 of 86)
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I've been sewing for about 37 years. It seems like I sewed everything during highschool but as I've gotten older and fitting becomes a challenge, I've stopped sewing garments unless it has been for my kids or nieces and nephews. I really want to get back into garment sewing but my own confidence keeps me from doing very much. I have a daughter who is 6ft. tall and has challenging fitting issues -- Is God trying to tell me that I need to get over it and just sew?? Sheila Sheila
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User: Whoshe22
Member since: 03-16-2000 Total posts: 49 |
From: MaryW
Date: 02-04-2005, 05:55 PM (78 of 86)
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Sheila, I remember you from a few yrs. back. Welcome back to Sew Whats New. Just go for it, for heaven sakes. Your instincts will tell you what to do and we can help the rest of the way. MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: emorrow
Date: 02-28-2005, 05:00 PM (79 of 86)
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...but not as far back as some of you, I encountered my first sewing machine in the 7th grade (1960) when we made an apron in Home Ec class. Took sewing again as an elective in the 12th grade and made Cs and Ds. Was that teacher ever particular! Never could please her! But I learned to do facings, buttonholes, underlinings, and zippers that passed through a waist seam. Best class I've ever had! Every time I sit down at a sewing machine I think of Mrs. Anderson. --Ellen |
User: emorrow
Member since: 02-26-2005 Total posts: 13 |
From: MariLynnTX
Date: 03-02-2005, 01:50 PM (80 of 86)
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I've been sewing for 58 years, since I was married. I had made a skirt before that and that was ALL! Since then I have made everything, my clothes, my children's clothes, household furnishings, dabbled in tailoring (for which I attended one all-day class back in the early 50's) and 3 (2-hour) classes in freemotion embroidery. I did (self-taught) hand embroidery and taught classes in it, I taught classes in beginning, intermediate, and advanced sewing and in freemotion machine embroidery. I wrote a book on freemotion machine embroidery 9 years ago and I still sell it online, although my children (I had seven and 16 grandchildren); that is, my daughters, are nagging me to gather it up and send it to a publisher. I have added a lot of designs to it over the years, so I have just finished adding a few more! I have been on a number of online panels answering sewing and freemotion questions. I have an automatic embroidery machine but seldom use it, because I prefer doing my own designs myself. MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: paroper
Date: 03-02-2005, 02:30 PM (81 of 86)
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You need to copywrite and publish that book. Then you need to find a way to pitch the book to make it popular. Sewing is just coming back into vogue and you and your family could do quite well!
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: MariLynnTX
Date: 03-02-2005, 04:12 PM (82 of 86)
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Pam, the book is under copyright; so are my poetry book, my cookbook, my archived columns, and my novel. I've just had so many problems I haven't gotten around to contacting another agent, since my agent died two years ago, but my daughters are nagging me now about it! Thank you for your interest; I really appreciate it. MariLynntx
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: Marlyn
Date: 03-08-2005, 08:47 AM (83 of 86)
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I began sewing in grade five learning by hand sewing, made a draw string purse, etc. The summer before entering grade 7 and the advent of electric machines, I had my grandmother's Singer treadle, bought a pattern and taught myself to sew .... that summer I made a denim skirt, matching halter top and shorts. Didn't know anything about taking measurements, but everything fit. Thanks to my dear father, I also learned how to gather the basting stitches, and what basting was. Like many of you I have also been sewing since I was about 10 (a little over 50 years ago), and have made many things, including taking scraps and piecing same type material together to make a dress for my DD when she was small, wedding outfits, bridesmaid dresses, and drapes. When I was sewing for others, it was whatever my customers brought me. Most came telling me they could not thread a needle without getting a migraine. My sewing skills came in handy when my daughter and son were small while I was a stay at home Mom and money a little tight sometimes. I just love sewing, and now am in heaven with two darling granddaughters to sew for.
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User: Marlyn
Member since: 06-11-2004 Total posts: 37
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From: MariLynnTX
Date: 03-08-2005, 10:57 AM (84 of 86)
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I have been trying to post, Marlyn, but it keeps sending me back to my inbox list before I barely get started. This is my 4th try! I know those DGD's are going to keep you busy. Now that I am well again and have finished revising my machine embroidery book, maybe I can make something for my newest DGD. She is Michelle and is 18 months old and adorable. I have 15 living grandchildren, more boys than girls. The five before Michelle are all 5, 6 and 7...and male. Then there is Molly, who is 9 and preceded by more boys. I was a stay-at-home mom, too, with seven children. I also was a professional singer, taught piano, did calligraphy and graphics, custom sewing, and taught freemotion machine embroidery classes. I am going to be 78 the first week in April, which amazes me until I look in the mirror, or see the picture of me in the archives! MariLynn
Life is a song...we give it harmony or dissonance.
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User: MariLynnTX
Member since: 08-13-2001 Total posts: 256 |
From: georgias
Date: 03-30-2005, 06:16 PM (85 of 86)
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I'm new to this forum, having just discovered it after rediscovering my love for sewing. I have had an absolute ball reading about how other people have learned to sew. Like many people, I'm pretty much self taught, having refused to look at home ec classes in school, and not learning anything more than patching, hemming, sewing on buttons, etc. from my mother, who wasn't that fond of sewing. When my daughter was little, I started messing around making toys & miniature stuffed figures for her, with a very very old machine borrowed from my grandmother. Sewing was something every female in the family (except me) always did. I helped with the quilt projects, but was totally inept at piecing by hand. I was pretty good at making the tiny stuffed figures and their clothes, and my grandmother looked at them, rolled her eyes, and said if I could sew those things, I could sew anything. Gradually, I began expanding what I did sew, and I consider myself moderate in skill. I now have a friend who has done extensive advanced sewing, from evening gowns to jockey silks, and she patiently makes me rip out over and over. Guess I'm just more willing to spend the time to learn now then when I was a tomboy more interested in fishing and chasing dogs than I was in "girlie stuff" as a kid. The project that stands out in my memory was making a Green Power Ranger costume for my son when he was about 5-6 years old. That was the NEW power ranger, nobody had a premade costume, and he was heartbroken. A purchased pattern was designed for felt, and I knew that he would live in the suit until he outgrew it, and felt just wasn't going to work...so I managed to make the goofiest looking power ranger costume out of fleece knit so it could double as pajamas. Like a lot of other projects for a single working parent...it was procrastinated until the last minute, and I ended up sewing half the night so it was done for school the next morning. (Gotta have it for the school costume party, you know!) Appliqueing a gold hologram knit onto fleece knit at midnight will remain a memory for a long time, along with the delight on a small boy's face. I think he lived in that suit for nearly a year, and it was ridiculous on him the last few months. Now, I sew for myself, a totally new thing! If I'm so lucky as to become a grandmother myself, I hope to be able to make some nauseatingly cute things for that boy/girl. |
User: georgias
Member since: 03-29-2005 Total posts: 2 |
From: beachgirl
Date: 03-30-2005, 07:49 PM (86 of 86)
| I just figured it out, I've been sewing 34 yrs now. My mom was a seamstress when I was little & a wonderful quilter for years. I never paid attention to her sewing as I followed my dad & brothers around, was an outside gal. So, I taught myself to sew after my 4 kids were born. That's when I got my first used sewing machine. Made a lot of their clothes. I bought a singer sewing book & took off. I credit that from my mom somehow passing it on to me whether I wanted it or not. Only thing I can't do is make some clothes fit me right. I can draw up most home dec stuff I want ( patterns I make ). The quilting I just started out pictureing in my mind how mom did something. I've never had a lesson except what I've taped from several tv programs. I love sewing & quilting. Mom did teach me to do hand embroidery when I was about 9. Wish I'd been smart enough to have had her teach me to sew like she did. I was a tomboy & raised on a farm.Poor mom, I was the only girl. |
User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615
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