Why Fabric Matters When Sewing

For me, even though sewing is less about the result and more about the process, I still get mad at the fact that I don’t wear anything that I sew. Even though I’ve made some pretty cool stuff, I don’t really feel like wearing any of it because it isn’t that comfortable. Through this experience, I have now learned the power of fabric. When you are picking out fabric you must envision it as the clothing that you’re turning it into. For example, my overalls. I love everything about them. The detail of the pockets, the buttons, the plaid. I love everything except for the fabric. It’s stiff and hard to move around in. If I were to make them again (which I definitely will) I would make them out of a jersey fabric (something soft and stretchy).

With that said, here are some things I recommend making.

Scrunchie: If you want to start by making something easy, this is the easiest it can get. You need any kind of fabric and elastic (so that it is stretchy). Once sewn, it's something small and nice you can say you’ve made.

Skirt: One of the easiest things to make. Stretchy fabric is best because you won’t have to add a zipper, which requires a lot of skill.

Dress: Personally, I love to make dresses. Even though it takes time, they’re one of the nicest things you can make yourself. I like to make beach dresses that are casual and something I can wear on a day-to-day basis, but if you want to make something more abstract to show off, then it's a great project.

Overalls: More difficult than the others. They can take around six hours to make and require a lot of attention to detail. But even though they take a while, it’s worth it to have an outfit that’s easy to throw on.

Pet Sweater: Why not.