Two of my favorite things: Christmas and sewing! I thought I’d share with you how I taught myself to sew and some of my favorite sewing must haves, including my sewing machine. Many women my age have commented how they wish they knew how to sew or have asked me to teach them. But guess what, you can teach yourself! I have two kids, a husband on night shift, and chronic back pain. If I can do it, so can you! And now I’m making home goods and have an Etsy store where I can give back by buying massages for moms!

When I was pregnant with my second baby, I purchased my sewing machine during Prime Day, 2017. It has always been something in the back of my mind, but anytime I saw a project that was ‘no-sew’ I jumped on that because I didn’t know how. If I would have known sooner how easy it can be once you learn the basics, I would have looked into it sooner. For instance, one of my first projects was a window seat cushion cover, not necessarily the easiest thing but I did it!

As a kid, I watched my mom hand sew a lot of things and even thinking about sewing a button on seemed daunting to me. I really feel that sewing is going to be such a valuable skill for my kids to have. They love to help and Savannah is even in charge of putting the pins in my old tomato pin cushion. When I am working at home on sewing, I don’t feel as much mom guilt since they are learning valuable life skills. Right??

Sewing is not easy. But with practice, it can be. There are some basic things to know about a sewing machine and the process:

• There is a lower and an upper thread. These two threads hook together to form the stitch.
• Some of the newer machines are so much easier to use than your grandmother’s old sewing machine (trust me, I’ve been there)
• There are a few terms you need to know: tension, bobbins, and backstitching.
• When sewing different types of fabrics, you need to make adjustments on your machine.
• Keep your sewing manual handy. I still refer to it often.
• The internet and Pinterest are your friends. Search and explore different projects that you are interested in and make it happen!

So consider this Christmas, asking for a sewing machine. What a gift that can keep giving! Think about all the fun things you can make and save money on; custom curtains, pillows, and clothing. And even make some of your own gifts for your family! All while teaching your kids a life skill they can take into their adulthood.

Here are a list of items to get you started! All found on Amazon, so go ahead and create your wish list 🙂

• Brother Sewing machine
• Sewing gauge
• Seam ripper
• Pin cushion
• Pins
• Fabric (have fun with this!) If you are here in Lexington, I like to shop Joann Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, and the Thomas Sewing Center. And then I shop various online stores.
• Cutting mat and tools
• Iron
• Scissors
• Thread (match to your project)

Go into the New Year with a goal to learn sewing! And make sure to tag me on social media so I can see what you are working on!

Thanks for reading!
Kim