Growing up my aunt and mom sewed all the time (they made all my Halloween costumes and my aunt even sewed my mom’s wedding dress) but whenever I tried to learn on my mom’s machine I broke it. Not just jammed it or temporarily messed it up, I legitimately ruined it (at least six episodes ended with my mom carting it off to the shop and paying lots of money to get it repaired). And then I wasn’t encouraged to use it quite as much if you catch my drift. I don’t blame my mom at all. I was clearly cursed.
So in an insane turn of events, I recently purchased a nice affordable beginner sewing machine of my own with high hopes of DIYing a quilt and a fabric flag banner for Clara’s first birthday (using all of the fabrics that we picked up for her weekly photo project to create them). I figured it would come in handy for things like pillow and curtain making as well.
And I specifically picked something with great ratings (4.5 stars and over 150 customer reviews) on amazon.com (a Brother XL2600I) because I wanted something good for a beginner devoid of any “natural ability” whatsoever. Of course it didn’t hurt that it was around $100-200 cheaper than most fancy machines (on sale for just $89 – down from $149 – with free shipping). You know just in case I irreparably maimed it within a week of use. Which would not have surprised me. Hence the I’m-not-going-to-splurge-for-anything-great-just-yet approach.
So it arrived a few weeks ago. It has been testing me. Oh my goodness has it been testing me. Like, walk-calmly-into-the-bedroom-and-scream-into-a-pillow testing me.
I even had a hilariously miserable and desperate text message exchange with Katie B where I basically asked her to come over and peel me off the floor and wipe away my tears and spank my disobedient machine. Yeah, she didn’t come. But she did make me laugh by comparing me to Martha. I suggested that perhaps I was Martha’s uncoordinated lesser known sister (who I dubbed Bertha) and by the end of the little iPhone fest Katie had me smiling. Gotta hand it to that girl for providing some much needed comic relief when you’re dealing with this sort of ugliness:
The actual issue was that I was having all sorts of tension problems (broken needles, loopy tangled underside stitches, etc) and then after two nights of despair and at least five solid hours of sheer misery I realized that I was using an unsanctioned bobbin. Seriously. After five hundred attempts at rethreading the needle and rereading the manual and googling around for ideas and texting my poor friends (who all had better things to do than listen to me whine I’m sure) it was my stupid one tenth of an inch too tall bobbin that was sabotaging me. But at least I got the root of the issue, which ended up being hilariously easy to fix (hilarious in that you-laugh-but-kind-of-cry-at-the-same-time-because-it’s-so-pathetic-and-embarrassing way).
But at least at that lowest ever point in my sewing career I figured it could only get better from there. So I kept on keeping on. Slowly but surely I’m getting to know “Oh Brother” (my sarcastically pessimistic nickname for the sewing machine slash bane of my existence) and I’ve actually made some decent progress in the world of novice sewing. For example, I made this little fabric flag banner for the bean’s big one year birthday par-tay using small triangles that I cut out of various weekly fabrics.
I’m not going to say that it was easy. It was harder and more annoying than The Situation’s abs. In fact, I refer to the debacle that was me attempting to sew that fabric banner as “The Real Situation.”
It took me waaaaaay too long and I probably legitimately cried ten times (we’re not talking whiny fake crying, we’re talking actual frustrated hot tears that you swipe away before anyone looks at you like you’re crazy for sew-crying). Give me a sledgehammer or a paint brush and I have no fear. But give me a robot with a motorized needle and I will show you the definition of misery. It’s just not something I can even remotely pretend to be good at. Oh well, I’ll learn. Or I won’t and I’ll get another hobby. Haha.
As for exactly how long it took, I’d guess that cutting each of the flags out took me about forty minutes in front of the TV (I used a cardstock template and placed it over the prewashed – so it was preshrunk – fabric). Then I hemmed each of the three sides of the triangle with Oh Brother, which took me well over five hours.
Yes, you read that right. Let’s just say there were a lot of do-overs and seam ripping and more tension issues but in the end I was left with around a dozen perfect enough triangles that I wouldn’t die from embarrassment if a teenage Clara looked closely at her beloved birthday banner (I hope the banner becomes a tradition for every b-day until the bean is too old to indulge me, so I don’t just want it to look not-terrible I want it to last for a while and look halfway decent). So although you see about 27 flags on the table above, so many of them were just garbage when you got any closer, so I picked my favorite dozen and tossed the rest unceremoniously into my rag pile.
Then in a stroke of desperation (or genius, you decide) I actually broke out some iron on hem tape to complete the project in about another half hour (for a total of 5.5+ hours spent).
It helped to lay out the remaining not-terrible flags on the floor to play around with order until I liked what I saw. Then it was just about firing up the iron and using my trusty hem tape to attach them to the blue ribbon that I already had laying around.
I’m pretty sure it would have easily been 10+ hours if I sewed each flag to the blue ribbon that I used for the top. But heck, I’m starting slow. I’m just glad I was able to sew those flags and not chuck Oh Brother out the slider in the sunroom (the problem with ranches is that you don’t get to dramatically drop things that you hate out of second story windows so you have to improvise). And iron-on hem tape is washable so it’s all good. And look at my little helpers. How cute were they to hang out in the kitchen while I tested my not-cursing-or-throwing-anything limits? They were some much needed sweetness for a pretty darn annoying personal challenge.
The banner looks fun and festive and it’ll be washable and hopefully will last for at least a decade or two, and best of all it was free except for the expense of Oh Brother (thanks to already having purchased each of the fabrics on clearance throughout the year for Clara’s weekly pics and using iron-on hem tape and blue ribbon that I already had).
But I’m still hoping that the sewing machine purchase will end up being worth it as I attempt more projects like a very very very simplified quilt for the bean and other house-related things (a few throw pillows, maybe some curtains, etc). I’m definitely going to start slow.
So there it is. The truth. I’m no Martha Stewart. I’m terrible at sewing and it makes me curse, sob, and scream into my pillow. But who knows, this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship with that terrifying mechanical needle. Stranger things have happened…
V's says
I can totally understand. When I see people sewing curtains, pillows, slipcovers etc etc I get so jealous. I tried tried and tried but failed every single time. :(( But this flag was a great job indeed. Wish I can atleast get to this ;-)
V
Jody says
Sherry
Your post had me laughing so hard I nearly peed myself.
I feel exactly as you do about sewing. I want so desperately
To learn, but all attempt failed and each experience was worse than the last. I look forward to reading more about your sewing adventures.
Kathy says
See!! I told you it was the machine and not us, poor, poor inexperienced sewers. I’m so happy that you got your project finished. I think it looks great and what a great idea!
Now I’ve gotta go google unsanctioned bobbins. I am having the same troubles with my “Oh Brother” (LOVE that, BTW).
Krysta @ Domestic for Dummies says
I hate feeling that frustrated when you think it should be something rather simple to do. But It looks great and Clara will be proud her mama spent so much time on that banner. It looks great by the way!
karen @ our slo house says
Your triangle flag bunting looks terrific. You should be very proud of yourself. :)
Tip: If you iron those triangles (all the sewed edges) they will look crisper and more professional. You will be AMAZED at the difference. Seriously.
YoungHouseLove says
Ooh I love that tip! I’ll have to break out the iron before her big b-day celebration. That I know how to use!
xo,
s
Elise says
Hi Sherry,
As an intermediate/lazy lazy lazy sewer, I thought I’d share a few tips for you that always help me out. These are the things that I am religious about, which says something because I skip steps whenever possible.
1. Iron all hems or folds (including pleats) before and after you sew them. Before helps the fabric stay in place while you sew and after gets out any puckers that may have occured. Always iron on the hottest setting the fabric can stand.
2. Pin everything within an inch of its life. Seriously. Pin it as much as you think it needs, and then go back and put one pin in between each of them. If you put the pins in perpendicular to the direction of the fabric movement, you won’t have to remove them as you sew.
3. Don’t forget to always backstitch at the begining and end.
4. To go around corners seamlessly, leave the needle in the fabric and rotate the fabric until you have it lined up again, then put the presserfoot back down and sew away.
Anyway, I apologize if you already knew all of this stuff… These were just the things that were not really obvious when I started sewing a couple years ago.
Landy says
Oh-I felt so badly for you after reading this. I learned to sew on my mom’s 1-function Singer. All it did was go back and forth, and it weighed about 50 pounds. I love that machine. My husband got me a nice little Brother machine a few years ago, and now that I’ve figured it out, it’s great. It does WAY more than my mom’s Singer (although I still covet that one).
But I had moments like the ones you’re describing. Particularly when making sheer curtains (where, of course, EVERY mistake shows)–I’d get those tangled messes on the bobbin-side of the seam, and I couldn’t figure out why. And then I cried. I think I finally did solve it though: I think I was putting the bobbin in so it unwound the wrong way, which screwed up the tension. It’s these little things you don’t even think of…
But you’ll get it… and I bet, in fact, you’re through the worst of it…
Rosie says
Landy, I love those old Singers too – in our area (Washington DC), you can find them on Craigslist for $50-$150, and I think they’re a great deal – those things will work forever! If you don’t have any luck finding one on Craigslist, you can also find them on ebay and shogoodwill.com.
Riane says
In 7th grade we were forced to take a home ec class that involved the sewing machine. At the time, I had no fear. Today is another story. Sewing machines scare the bahjeebus out of me and I’m constantly breaking needles and snagging when my mom lends me her machine instead of taking on whatever project I’ve decided suits her.
Rebecca says
Oh, I am so happy to read this. Not happy that you struggled, but that someone else in the world has the same experiences. I come from a family of absolutely brilliant seamstresses. And I am not one of then. The last time my Mom attempted to help me sew, I ended up yelling at her and crying these huge racking sobs. Seriously embarassing. Her precious sewing machine is currently sitting in a corner at my house because I’ve managed to do something to and it just doesn’t work anymore.
I’m seriously considering an Oh, Brother. Then at least I won’t feel guilty when I break it. :)
Meg A. says
If it makes you feel any better… I have that same sewing machine and although I do have SOME sewing skills… that thing jams & gets “un-threaded” VERY easily. It also struggles to get through multiple layers of fabric. I thought I was doing something smart by buying an inexpensive one when I was starting to sew, but apparently not. I’m about ready to upgrade because I’ve had it!
Janelle says
Very cute! I feel your pain about sewing. I can totally relate to what you have had happen, only my terrible experience came in the form of a Girl Scout program. I was employed by our area Girl Scouts and was in charge of a program that had been set up by the previous program director. I had about 40 people coming and had ZERO experience sewing. Talk about nightmare! We made it through and I learned a little something too.
Keep up the great work! You are such an inspiration!
ALittleBite says
The banner looks awesome! I’d love to learn how to sew… but I’m afraid of the sewing machine haha.
Mel says
I’m so sorry to hear that your relationship with the machine isn’t fabulous yet. I sew a lot, so I have a few bits of advice that might help.
1. Don’t scrimp on thread. Cheap thread sheds lint which will clog your machine, the thread will break, and you’ll be sad. Gutermann and Mettler are great brands to use and widely available.
2. Likewise for needles. They’re the cheapest part of your machine, subject to the most wear, and a new one can be the difference between an easy fun project and a nightmare. They often go on sale for 50% off at large craft stores, so stock up.
3. Maintenance: Make sure to clean and oil your machine regularly. It will be happier and reward you.
4. Look for a class in your area! If you shell out for a “dealer” machine, you generally get free machine use and maintenance classes that acquaint you with your model’s quirks. Since yours is from online, I’d suggest finding an independent sewing shop or a sewing machine/vacuum service center. Just having someone sit down with you for an hour or two can be of immense help.
And have fun – your banner looks adorable!
flame821 says
If you work your way up to a quilt, may I suggest using a LOG CABIN pattern for your material. It is one of the simplest blocks to sew (all straight seams) and once the blocks are made they can be arranged into many different patterns.
As for the bobbin incident, I feel for you. I’m currently making costumes for the school play and used one of the school machines. I assumed (big mistake, I know) that the equipment all went together. Had to rip the seams out of one halter top 3 times before it occurred to me to stop checking the tension knobs and open the bobbin trap. It was the old metal type instead of the new, smooth plastic type. Made all the difference in the world. And YAY for having good friends to see you through sewing trauma and making you laugh in the end.
Sarah says
Oh my gosh, you almost killed me with sew-crying. I have done that. And I’ve done some knit-crying as well.
Vikki says
So have I. The worst is when you have to rip out lace.
Erin says
I have the same sentiments toward my sewing machine. It can be evil. Thank goodness for a 24-hour 1-800 number…that part literally sold me on the machine :)
Hannah says
OMG – you are SO not alone. My mom is a fantastic at sewing, she has a big fancy Bernina and has always made her own suits and clothes and ornate window treatments, she even made her ski suit when she was younger.
I STINK – I am now on my second machine, I killed the first Singer, I have tried to killed my new Janome but its giving me a good fight so far. I have made things successfully, but when the directions say 2 hour project, it takes me 14 hours. I LOVE it when I am done, the sense of accomplishment that I have exactly what I wanted and didn’t buy it is phenomenal but the time investment and the sailor language is probably taking months off my life span.
Keep going, its so worth it and I think we will both be a quarter as good as our mothers one day…maybe;-)
Stephanie says
uggg. the deadly bobin. I feel your pain-I’ve been there. But your banner is super cute :) good job!
Sigrid says
ACK! Get rid of that Brother ASAP!!!!
The whole time I was reading your post, I just kept reliving the nightmare that was my sewing experience last winter. Hubby bought me that very same TERRIBLE Brother sewing machine off Amazon (after reading all those reviews!) and I had all sorts of tension problems and needles breaking and bobbin issues, too! I had many many tears shed, so take heart, Sherry… you’re not the only one!
In one particularly miserable go at it, hubby was trying to help me with my thread tension and somehow I wound up with the needle through my index finger. Not pretty. Much crying. The Brother had to go!
I bought the Janome Threadbanger- TB12 and it is AMAZING!!!! A very simple “DIY workhorse.” A little bit more money, but worth it in the end (no more crying!) Simple to use, I’ve already made dozens of projects from around the house and have never had any issues. It’s straight up mechanical with no fancy electronics that can get broken. I was able to make myself a diaper bag and at one point had to sew through about 10 layers of fabric and interfacing and that amazing machine just plowed right through no problem.
It’s not you… It’s Oh Brother!
Neal says
I’m with you Sherry – sewing is hard. My mom, two aunts, and especially my grandmother are awesome at sewing, but none of them taught me anything other than how to sew on a button, so I can do that and a couple of other things by hand, but I don’t understand the machines. Through an interesting set of circumstances I ended up getting a machine for Christmas, I haven’t learned how to use it yet and it sits in our spare bedroom taunting me. The banner came out great, though! Good job sticking with it!
Natalie says
Great job on sticking with it through the frustrations! And it’s so great that you ended up with something presentable and lovely in the end =) Even if you know all the imperfections that are there, banners are hung up high where nobody else will notice!
I also come from a sewing family, with custom-made Halloween costumes and easter dresses =) I learned to sew on my grandmother’s machine which was left to me, and was definitely at least 50 years old and hadn’t been serviced in who knows how long. Dealing with that thing gave me enough frustration to want to give up all together as well! And although moving up to a more modern machine made a huge difference, I still found myself staring at those huge nests of tangled thread all the time. My machine would stop randomly, I’d break needles (so scary!!), things would get stuck, etc. And working with patterns was so hard, I just couldn’t visualize things in that way so I often sewed things on inside out, etc…
But fast-forward a few years and several sewing projects later, and I’ve really started to notice my improvement. I know my machine better (after having to reference the manual or call my mother so many times for problems), so I’m better at getting things right the first time around. And when there is a problem, I usually know how to fix it right away. While I used to just putter along when I sewed a long section of fabric, I’m now able to fly through it like I remember my mom doing when she would sew.
I still get stymied every once in a while (on my last project, the machine just froze. I ended up taking the entire thing apart, and I don’t even remember what ended up being wrong, but I was so upset thinking I would have to get it repaired), but it’s much much less frequently, and the problems are usually less earth-shattering.
So stick with it!! It’s not you, it’s just.. sewing machines are so complicated and delicate! It’s strange that we live in a world with super amazing computer technology, but sewing machines are still so sensitive and touchy. You just really have to experience and learn your way around the machine, and learn things about needles and tension and all of that good stuff. And you have to practice and run into all these problems and learn how to fix them, it’s just the way it is. But in the end you’ll be able to whip up so much stuff without any problems!
Claudia says
omg those bobbins and tensions, they’re the worst! but you know what, once you make it past that, it’s a lot easier. i’ve also have had my crying fits over the bunched up thread messes but i promise it does get a lot better!!!
Loren says
This looks really fantastic! I’m sorry it took such a long time to do simple project.
I’ve shed more than my fair share of tears in front of the sewing machine. I struggled for 3 days because I had somehow installed my needle backwards!! The only real ‘tip’ I have it to try re-treading the machine. I know that you’ll think ‘But I did it RIGHT the first time’. But nearly every time I hit a weird snag for no reason, I’ll re-tread the machine and it will magically work.
Maybe you can find a local class or a friend who can come by and give you some pointers?
YoungHouseLove says
Yup, that’s definitely on my to do list. I can’t climb this mountain alone. Haha.
xo,
s
Ann says
Awwwww. I think we might have been separated at birth. My sewing machine escapades line up EXACTLY like yours! There is nothing like finishing a seam and either having no thread in the bobbin any more or having that big blob of thread underneath your project. I feel your pain!!!
Allison says
Maybe try pinking shears for the triangles next time (next time – ha!) – I did that for a party and then ran them with a ribbon through the machine. Saved some time, but that’s as much as I sew. :)
Alie says
You just made me feel so much better. I come from a family of gifted-sewers and I just have never had that gene. I’ve thrown tantrums and sobbed and thank goodness I’m not alone in the world!
Jarman says
Sherry you should check out Quilting Adventures in Richmond! They have some great beginner quilting classes and are super nice. I never seem to be able to get out of there without buying a super cute print either. :)
Holli says
I learned to sew when I was 8 years old, and despite my experience had a similar issue just about a year ago when I bought the wrong bobbins. I was convinced something was wrong with my machine, and when I figured out the real issue I was totally embarrassed at how simple of a fix it was. Here I had been complaining to my husband about how stupid my machine was and it was user error all along!
The banner looks fantastic- I made a similar one earlier this year that took me far too long as well, haha. Can’t wait to see the party decor in action!!
Susan says
I have been sewing since I was nine but it has not always been a happy relationship. I have gotten the big pile of thread on the fabric underside, the mess in the bobbin area and the swearing and crying. The secret is practice (sew a lot of straight seams, it really helps you memorize the steps and get to know your machine), continue swearing for stress relief, and drinking. Have one before you start to relax. Or keep one by the machine while you sew. I’m not kidding. It made a huge difference. Also, I swear I’m not an alcoholic – I know, denial. Good luck on your sewing journey. It really is worth it once you get the hang of it. Also, figure out how many boo-boos you can live with and move on with your life. HAPPY (I hope) sewing.
Jess says
It is looking great and no one will notice anything different once you hang it. They will just see the fun fabrics!
Random question, where did you get the fabric alphabet magnets that are in the picture with Clara?
YoungHouseLove says
Those are some fun Etsy finds. More info here: http://blogs.babycenter.com/life_and_home/not-your-mothers-magnetic-letters/
xo,
s
Kristen @ Popcorn on the Stove says
I took at class in middle school (the end product was a pillow) and let’s just say it looked rough. So, yeah… I’m not a natural when it comes to sewing, either.
At least you’re trying again, and with great results! It’s like that expression – if you fall off a horse you have to get back on. Love the banner idea – it’s adorable!
Tempest says
Last summer, out of the blue, i decided i wanted a sewing machine. I had never sewn a stitch on a machine in my entire life until that point. Let me tell you, the bobbin and I are not friends. It seems like anytime I have an issue, the bobbin is somehow to blame. Don’t give up though!
Cara says
I’m so glad I’m not the only person who screams and cries with frustration. I attempted to untangle my computer cords while on steroids for a really bad case of poison ivy. Bad idea. My husband made me to leave the room while he got everything plugged back in. One new computer and 1 1/2 years later, they’re still a hot mess.
Elizabeth says
Roid-rage? Yikes! ;-)
Meredith K A says
I’m taking sewing lessons from my mom this summer…literally haven’t touched a sewing machine since 7th grade Home Ec class…and I loathe sewing by hand…so I’ll hope for a better new relationship than yours! Keep trying, I bet you’ll be a pro before you know it. There’s some barrier you just have to break through and after that you’ll wonder why you haven’t been a natural all your life!
Jennifer says
OH NO!! I’m so sorry you’re having such a terrible time with sewing. I (to use some YHL lingo) LURVE sewing! I can completely relate with your beginner troubles though. I called every seam a “hem” when I first started sewing (my fabulous, millions of years of experience, seamstress mother got a HUGE laugh out of that one)! My recommendation, to make your sewing life easier, is to take a beginner sewing class or two at either a local quilt shop, sewing lounge, or Joann/Hancock. They should give you lots of great tips! Good luck and keep at it. I promise when you get the hang of it you will LURVE what you create! :)
Maggie @ Black & White {Side by Side} says
I learned how to use my sewing machine by watching YouTube videos… Give it a try!
Courtney says
Haha – I know I shouldn’t laugh, but I am totally the same way. I’ve done so many projects that I always tell people look WAY better from afar than close-up! I did a little stitching for my daughter’s Easter basket (pic on my blog) and it looks HORRIBLE. Fortunately, you can’t tell unless you are close so as long as that Easter basket is across the room – we are GOOD!
Katrina says
I’ve so been were your at a few times with my now beloved sewing machine!! I bought a simple Singer a few years back,think how hard can it be? Boy did I have plenty of the those moments of crying, riping seams and cursing! lol – Heck I still have those moments when my tension is off :(
But trust me you’ll get better and have fun sewing, I’ve now sewn pillow covers, blankets and few hobo bags….you’ll get there! :)
Mary says
If you ever get “thread throw-up” on the underside of your sewing again, check to see if you neglected to drop lever type thing that brings your sewing foot down to the plate.
mike @ the lil house that could says
the wife got a sewing machine (because she SO desperately wanted one) for Christmas of 2009 while we were living with my parents (while the house was being built). It sat in their garage until April of 2010 when we moved. And it has since sat in our garage… collecting dust… still brand new… and in the original un-opened box….
Hilary says
Oh Sherry, I feel your pain! The best thing, by far, I ever did to end my sewing misery was to sign up for one of Joann Fabric’s Sewing 101 classes that allows you to bring your own machine and the instructor helps you learn the basics of your machine and can help you trouble-shoot. That $50 or so (I can’t remember the exact cost) saved me hours of frustration and gave me the confidence to sew curtains for nearly every room in our house as well as more aprons, cloth napkin sets, and pillow covers than I can count.
Keep on keepin’ on, and sooner or later you’ll be sewing slipcovers!
Susan says
Also, check out Amy Karol’s Bend the Rules Sewing. It’s a good book for beginners and has some fun, quick projects. Don’t give up. It is worth it in the end.
Wendy says
I’m a long-time-not-terrible-sewer (if I don’t rush things, which I tend to do a LOT) who descends from a professional dressmaker and absolutely brilliant home sewers (my mother literally CAN make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear–well, I might be exaggerating a bit, but she’s GOOOD!) Triangles are VERY difficult–those angles and dealing with the bias while hemming. You did great!
rachael says
Just wondering where you got those magnetic letters for the fridge that Clara is playing with? They are cute!
YoungHouseLove says
They’re fun Etsy finds! More info here: http://blogs.babycenter.com/life_and_home/not-your-mothers-magnetic-letters/
xo,
s
kim b says
It looks great, and it all work out just keep at it and in no time (you have 2-3 years) you can start making Halloween costume’s. I have got bamboozled into doing all the nabour-HOOD kids costumes. Star Wars, Napoleonic War (Red and Blue coats), some princess and finally some scary ones. And here is the greatest part about making Halloween costumes they are worn maybe 5 times tops and at night so the sewing doesn’t need to be perfect. LOL
Robyn says
Oh no! I’ve also had my share of sewing machine woes with a cheap machine that was given to me as a gift, and have been planning on upgrading to save myself the pain. In the meantime, not sure if you’ve seen this post by Centsational Girl, but I found it really helpful (and had it bookmarked for an occasion such as this one).
http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/11/learning-to-sew/
Kirsten says
Oh, Sherry. I SO sympathize with the sewing machine debacle. I had a recent experience almost exactly the same as what you described!! My mom and I always say that we can’t sew around kids because sewing machines make us curse–after she apologizes for the “genetic curse.” :) The only quilt I’ve made found me calling my mom halfway through cutting the first square, near tears, and asking how on earth I could make a quilt when I couldn’t even cut a straight line with the guide she’d loaned me. So yeah, I totally understand what it took to make that banner and how awesome it is that it looks so great!!!
Clare says
Ah, you made it further than I did! I did the same thing, researched a beginners sewing machine online, and bought the same one you did about 3 weeks ago. It arrived in the mail, and I thought ‘who am I kidding’, and packed it right back up again. This post makes me feel a little better, I would have given up 2 hours in!
JMJE says
I feel you. I really do. I also bought a Brothers Machine last year for about $90. Sewing is the hardest thing ever. I even took a beginner class because I was having such a hard time. I spent a full day making this apron. There were tears and yelling and a bit of cussing but I was extremely overjoyed at the end of the day knowing I made something I could pull out every year for Christmas. ( http://makingstuffisfun.blogspot.com/2010/12/my-christmas-present-to-myselfthe.html ) I think you will feel the same about your banner which is very cute by the way. I have since made a set of curtains and a couple bags but it is still insanely hard and frustrating every time I attempt something. But I’m going to keep on keeping on with it (well from time to time).
Echo says
I could have written this – except for the gorgeous banner porn ending! ;) I am HORRIBLE with a sewing machine and a few years ago my mother bought me a very similar Oh Brother for Christmas; it ended up in the attic until my 8-year-old decided to be a seamstress, now it’s in my trunk because she inherited my sewing skills. lol.
In comparison, my mother and grandmother are FANTASTIC with sewing machines. My mom made my wedding dress and my grandmother made the dresses for the bridal party, my daughters & my niece! I just really suck at it.
Bekah says
Hi, Sherry. Thank you for writing my story when it comes to sewing. That same exact machine resides in my guest room. And what about getting EVERYTHING out, and the defeat of putting things back–especially if you’re throwing in the towel-er, scrap fabric with pom-poms of knotted fabric all over. I made some curtains this February, and the only thing keeping me going was the amount of money I was saving. And how awesome it’d be to have homemade napkins out of this fabric: http://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=2452bd04-5636-4914-b0ce-31dfd5fcb20b&CategoryID=cf951f74-c97c-4173-b948-47abc1f38c2a
Or this: http://www.fabricworm.com/lawitutwitbi2.html
But oh well, my husband was actually my sewing coach, and I now have curtains. And the story and tears to go with it. Good luck!