This will be a series of posts that will show you how to save time sewing. It is a collection of tips, tools, and techniques that will help you sew more effecently with short cuts, and new ways to do old tasks.
We all are part of a society that is geared around our clocks. We have so much more to do in so much less time than generations ago. The day of "June Cleaver" sitting on her couch each night with nothing to do but hand sewing...is gone. The woman of today has to squeeze every second out of every day.
Sewing, to some, is something they just don't have time for. But for others, like myself, we need to get 'into' your sewing to relax and aborb ourselves into a world of creativity in order to survive the craziness of everyday life.
Planning is essential in saving time....
Shop with a plan, Sew with a plan.
The key to planning is managing your time. If you wait till you have a full day to sew, it never happens. Plan, on your calendar, a scheduled time to sew. Even if you only have 1/2 hour each day before you leave to pick up the kids, use it to do one more step on your sewing project rather than having another cup of coffee. 15 minutes a day adds up fast.
Manage your sewing in stages: Design, Prep, and Construction. Concentrate on finishing one stage completely before you start another.
When deciding on your pattern, preshop the pattern companies online.It is much more productive. Have a second pattern choice already chosen in case the store is out of you first choice. Double check your size choice on the back of the pattern by compairing measurements to avoid mistakes.
Shop for several projects at a time WITHOUT CHILDREN. You will make fewer mistakes and make quicker decisions.
Purchase everything you need for each project down to the thread, zippers, hook and eyes. You will waste precious time if you have to run to the store for your forgotten notions. Store everything for that project together in one large baggie so you have it all at hand.
Purchase an extra spool of thread to make sure you won't run out in the middle of your project.
When cutting, cut out two projects at the same time. That makes clean up fast. Consider making two garments from the same pattern using different fabrics.
Take your pattern instruction sheet with you while you are sitting, waiting at ballet practise or at the doctor's office. Review each step in you head so you will be familiar with it before you start.
Happy Sewing!!
- Sue Simoncini
- Columbus, GA, United States
- Hi, my name is Sue Simoncini. I am the Sewing Instructor for Columbus State University Continuing Education. I teach over 20 adult classes ranging from beginning to advanced techniques. I also teach many children's classes. I am also the Alterations Specialist at Daphne's Bridal and Designs here in Columbus. For over 25 years I utilized my formal background in Fashion Design to own and run a Bridal business in Florida, where I designed and made custom bridal gowns and costumes. I am also responsible for the design and sewing of over 250 costumes for the Columbus Ballet Nutcracker Performances. About ten years ago I rededicated my life to the art of teaching sewing. Feel free to contact my through this blog or through my email-sewingwithsue@yahoo.com. You can Register for any of my classes by going to: http://continuinged.columbusstate.edu/programs.php
