making your house a home

7 Easy Sewing Projects Perfect For Beginners

28 January 2016

Alide Oortwijn

If you've been longing to learn how to sew but are afraid it might be too complicated and frustrating, you'll be glad to know that there are many projects designed to help beginners learn the skills they need to go on to more complex creations. Following are seven projects that are easy for those who are new to the mysteries of sewing to master.

Reversible Scarves

Making reversible scarves is as easy as selecting complementary cotton fabrics, cutting them out in the desired size and shape, and sewing the two sides together. For a casual look, leave the edges unhemmed and use a pair of sharp scissors to create a fringe. You can choose a solid for one side and a print for the other or opt for prints on both sides for an eclectic look.

Curtains

Curtains are another easy project suitable for those just getting their feet wet in the wonderful world of sewing. Cotton curtains are usually crafted from cheerful prints and used in rooms requiring a casual ambiance, such as kitchens and laundry rooms or anywhere where a shabby chic look is desired.

Tablecloths

Creating an attractive cotton tablecloth is usually as simple as just measuring the table, deciding on the appropriate amount of fabric, and hemming the raw edges using a straight stitch with either a needle and thread by hand or using a sewing machine. If the fabric is patterned, placing it on the table before cutting out the desired amount ensures that the pattern is centered properly. For added mileage, make a reversible tablecloth using the same strategy as the one for crafting a reversible scarf.

Wrap Skirts

Wrap skirts are another easy sewing project that you can make using your choice of cotton fabric. Two of the main advantages to making your own wrap skirts are that no one else will be wearing what you're wearing no matter where you go, and custom made skirts fit much better than those purchased off the rack. These skirts provide an excellent way for those interested in sewing other articles of clothing to learn the basics of wardrobe creation and design.

Handkerchiefs

Handcrafting handkerchiefs is simple enough so that even the most novice sewing enthusiasts can quickly get the hang of it. All you have to do is cut a square of fabric in the desired size, fold it in 1/2 inch on all sides to form a hem, press with a iron to establish the edge, and sew the hem in using straight stitches. This is an excellent way to practice hand stitching, although a sewing machine works well also. Ten-inch quilt squares are the perfect size for this project for those who would prefer not to cut out their own from fabric.

Beach Coverups

You can quickly craft an attractive, sarong-style beach coverup simply by choosing a large square of your favorite cotton fabric and hemming it on all four sides. You can also add pouches to hold books, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other beach essentials if you like.

Flat Sheets and Pillowcases

Creating a flat sheet is as easy as measuring the bed, cutting the desired size out of soft cotton fabric, and hemming it on all four sides. Pillowcases aren't much more difficult -- you just have to sew two sides together and hem the raw edges at the opening. Fitted sheets are a little more difficult because they require the insertion of elastic, but you'll be ready to move on to those after you master flat sheets and pillowcases.

Beginning with an easy project develops confidence in novices, and before you know it, you'll be skilled enough to move on to more complex items. For inspiration, visit a fabric store like Brandt's Interiors & Workroom.

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