I remember vividly when I got my first sewing machine. It was a Kenmore from the 60s or 70s, and it was a workhorse! It just recently stopped working well, after being heavily used by me for two decades, not including the use from the original owner. I paid $20 for it using my own allowance, after my aunt found it at a yard sale. My mom bought me a little book for kids on how to sew, and I remember rushing through it to jump into my first project. Then returning to the book fast when I realized I was lost! I still have the first garment I made by myself, a 90's does 70's hippie style shirt. And I'll always remember the rush of pride whenever I got a compliment wearing it, and getting to tell everyone that I made it myself.
I have since made many things with that machine, and the replacement my grandma gave me last year, only now I make clothes for my husband and two girls as well as myself. I've also recently embraced my vintage loving side, and am making 40's and 50's outfits for my wardrobe. In doing so, I have discovered so many old techniques and tricks that modern women aren't really being taught. We like the shortcuts and fast fixes, the quick load pages and instant gratification. There is joy to be found in the old ways, and beauty in the details. I adore sitting down with a hem to hand sew, the sounds of my girls playing in the background, or keeping my hubby company while he works on projects.
A few days ago, on a group on facebook, a woman needed advice on her first steps into sewing vintage garments, and she was starting from scratch with nothing but a basic book and a lot of enthusiasm. I realized that she, and many others more than likely, would benefit from a guide to sew from the beginning, with the vintage lover in mind. I was reminded of the book "Home Sewing is Easy" that is styled like a comic book that walks you through the steps to make your own reference book. I will be taking inspiration from this book (which is recently republished by the original publisher, or I would be using it directly. Go get it though, it's a gem), tips I've learned along the way, and fun projects to practice your new skills, to guide a newbie into the long lost art of sewing the vintage way. I'll try to post weekly lessons, with supplies needed, once I get my initial research done. While that is progressing, feel free to contact me with the type of things you would like to see taught, no matter your current skill level!
If you plan on journeying with me, the first step is a sewing machine. Start searching now if you don't have one. There is a good bet that you have a friend or family member who has one they don't need anymore. Check craigslist, yard sales, and thrift stores. Don't be afraid of older machines, but if you don't buy brand new, find a local sewing machine repair shop to give the machine a checkup and tune up. If it came with a manual, read it cover to cover, even if it doesn't make sense. If it didn't come with one, google the model and try to find it to read. Your machine will not be the same as mine, so I want you familiar with the basics first!
Sew you soon!
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