Sewing is a great skill to have, whether you want to simply hand sew a button back on a shirt or you want to learn how to design and construct original projects from start to finish. In this class, produced in conjunction with National Sewing Circle, Ashley Hough will take you through all of the essentials you need to know to get started sewing with confidence.
She will start by going over all of the important components to know about your sewing machine, no matter what brand you have. While different brands, and even different models within the same brand, can look different and have different features, they all have some of the same basic functions that you will need to master in order to use your machine. This also includes the basics of learning how to follow a thread path to thread the machine and how and where to insert a bobbin. You will also learn about the different needle and thread types available and what is best used on certain projects.
Ashley will also go over many different types of fabrics and explain what kinds of fabric are easier for beginner sewers to use. This will tie into what you learn about the different needle and thread types, as fabric plays a very important role in determining which of these you should use. While some of the different needle and thread selections can be made based on what you want the end result of your project to look like, for example using a rayon thread so that your topstitching will have some shine, other selections can play a larger role in stitch quality and how your project comes together. You will also learn how to correctly and easily cut out pattern pieces using both scissors and a rotary cutting system. While a rotary cutting system, which consists of a rotary cutter, a mat and a ruler, is generally thought of as a quilting tool, it can make cutting out different pattern pieces for sewing projects much quicker and easier.
Ashley will also go over some basic sewing terminology that can be found on many sewing patterns and instructions. While different sewing pattern companies may word things differently or have you construct something in a different order, there are some terms that are used across the board.
At the end of this course you will also get to try out some of the new sewing skills you have learned by constructing an easy sewing tool pouch. This project will not only let you practice your sewing skills, but will give you a place to store all of the essential tools covered in this class as well. Also included with this class are multiple downloadable assets including a needle guide, general supply lists and a step-by-step guide for constructing the sewing tool pouch.
Class Sessions
Session 1: Getting Started
7:05
Learning how to sew can be intimidating when you see all of the different products and tools available on the market today. Ashley will narrow it down and show you all of the basic supplies you will need to learn to sew as well as show you several products and tools that can really make things easier.
Session 2: Understanding Your Machine
16:29
Knowing how to use your sewing machine is one of the most important parts of sewing. Ashley will walk you through all of the important parts of a machine found on most models. She will also explain threading the machine, winding the bobbin and give you tips to make your first sewing practice go smoothly.
Session 3: Needles & Thread Selection
10:24
Even if you know your machine inside and out, you can’t sew without needles and thread. Learn about the different types of needles available and how to select the right one for your project. Ashley will also teach you a little about thread and explain which is the easiest to learn to sew with.
Session 4: Fabric & Interfacing Guide
19:05
Some fabrics can be easier to work with than others - learn which is which! Ashley will break down dozens of fabrics into either easy to work with or not and explain why. You will learn what fabrics are best to learn with and how to select the right interfacing for your fabric as well.
Session 5: Cut Like a Pro
17:43
Whether you like scissors or you’re more comfortable using a rotary cutting system, learn the correct way to cut out pattern pieces. Ashley will show you the correct way to hold and use your scissors to achieve a clean cut. You will also learn how a rotary cutter can save time when cutting straight lines and make cutting curved sections a breeze.
Session 6: How to Sew
17:22
Once you have needles and thread selected and fabric cut out, it’s time to sew. Learn how to properly align fabric and run it through your machine. Ashley will give you tips on how to ensure a straight, even stitch every time.
Session 7: Beginner Sewing Terminology
14:33
Not knowing what a sewing pattern is telling you to do can be frustrating when you are just learning how to sew. From basting to notions, Ashley will teach you some basic sewing terminology that can be found on many patterns as well as demonstrate them.
Session 8: Bring it All Together
32:41
Once you’ve learned how to sew it’s time to bring it all together and make something you can actually use. Ashley will teach you how to make a sewing tool pouch that can be easily customized. Cut out pattern pieces, fuse interfacing and use all of the skills you learned in the class!
Your Instructor
Ashley Hough
Ashley has sewn for years. Her mother taught her at a very young age. When first starting out, she stuck to mastering commercial patterns before venturing into creating her own. Her patterns have been featured in <em>Sew News</em>, <em>Sew It All</em>, and she has even been on <em>Sew It All TV</em>.
Quilting is somewhat new to Ashley, but she dove in head first – coming up with an original design for her first quilt that included curved seams and hand appliqué! She was even lucky enough to have it featured in one of Quilty’s "This is My Quilt" episodes.
Ashley loves all things crafty, from sewing to knitting, crochet to quilting, and everything in between. When she isn’t working on a new project or learning a different technique she loves teaching her passion to others.
Bonus Material
Class Project: Sewing Tool Pouch PDF
Download this PDF for a detailed step-by-step instruction guide to make your own sewing tool pouch.
Class Resource: General Supply List PDF
Download this PDF for a list of supplies needed to get you started.
Class Resource: Needle Guide PDF
Download this chart to identify what needle to use on your next project.
Meet Your Expert Video
Download this video to hear Ashley discuss the importance of taking the time to learn and practice what works for you to become a better sewer.
Bonus Materials available for download after purchase.
FAQs
How do I know what the Class covers?
Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.
Do I have to be a Member of National Sewing Circle to purchase a Class?
No you don’t. While Premium Members will receive regular offers for special deals on National Sewing Circle content, Classes are not reserved exclusively for Members. If you buy a Class as a non-member, we’re sure you’d also enjoy having access to our full library of great sewing videos and articles as a Member, so give it a try.
How do I purchase a Class?
First you should decide that the Class is what you want. Review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content. When you’re ready to purchase and gain access to the Class, simply click the “Add to Cart” button, and proceed through the Checkout process.
How do I access/view my Class?
Once you’ve paid, you can access/view your Class by going to the MY ACCOUNT section of National Sewing Circle. The MY ACCOUNT link is in the upper right-hand area of the website. Within your MY ACCOUNT, a section labeled “My Content” is where the class you purchased will appear, including a link to watch the video of your Class. You’ll also receive an email confirmation after your purchase, which will include a link to view your Class. You can access your Class as many times as you wish, and you’ll never lose access to your Account information. Just be sure to “Log In” for access to MY ACCOUNT.
Do I have to take the Class right away?
No. Any Class you buy will be accessible to you always. You can view your Class whenever you want, and you can view individual Sessions in whatever order you like.
Is there a limit on the times I can view my Class?
No. Your access never expires. You can view any Class you purchase as many times as you want, whenever you want.
Can I view a Class on my tablet device or mobile phone?
No problem. Most newer-model smartphones or other mobile/tablet devices with an internet connection are able to play the Class videos. Simply Log In on National Sewing Circle, and you can view any Class you’ve bought through the MY ACCOUNT section. Or, you can click on the “View Class” link within the email confirmation you’ll receive upon your purchase.
How do I get access to the Bonus Materials for the Class?
Until you purchase a Class, the Bonus material (any extra videos, download materials, etc.) will not be accessible. Once you purchase a Class, and go to view your Class, each individual Bonus element is accessible by simply clicking on each item. You’ll find the Bonus Materials directly below your main Class viewer frame. You can access the bonus materials as many times as you like and/or save them to your device.
How does the Class Q&A Resource benefit work?
Once you purchase any Class, within the Class viewing page, you’ll have access to post a question, comment or tip in the Class Discussions. This is not a “live chat,” but National Sewing Circle contributors will answer posted questions and provide tips regularly. You can also view other Class participants’ questions and input to take part in this virtual dialogue among others who have taken the Class and are willing to share tips, answers, or ideas.
Can I print out Class details?
For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.
What are PDF downloads?
These are simply documents, plans, or written materials that are formatted in a way to print out and retain for reference. By simply clicking on the icon/link for any PDF Download that is included with a Class, you can print that document on your own printer or simply view the contents on your computer/mobile device.
Are there any system requirements to view the Class video content?
Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.
Why do you need my email?
We need it to acknowledge your purchase of a Class, and send you a confirmation of your transaction. Also, in order to maintain your permanent access to the Class videos, you’ll need to Login to www.nationalsewingcircle.com. We guarantee that we will not share your email with any third parties. You may receive email updates from National Sewing Circle from time to time, with details of new Classes and updates. You can easily unsubscribe when you receive any email.
Can I get a refund if I don’t like the Class?
Because you’ll have full access to all the materials and content that is presented in the Class immediately, we can’t offer a refund after purchase. Please review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content.
How do I contact National Sewing Circle?
If your question is about the Class content, please use the Contact Us Link – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at nationalsewingcircle@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-855-208-7187. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.
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