Learning to sew

I am lucky enough to come from a family of great seamstresses. Is that what you call people who sew? Or is that only for people who sew clothes? Oh well. My Grandmothers on both sides were always sewing - quilts, clothes, toys - everything. I know that is the way things were, people made their own things all the time, but I know they were really talented. My Mom sews too - I remember all of those years of halloween costumes and homecoming dresses, curtains and pillows, and even one re-upholstered sofa. (maybe someone scribbled on it with markers) Because of this I have been sewing for a while, although to be honest, never very well. I am just not patient. But now that I want to sew real clothes for Sprite I find myself learning to sew all over again. And thank God for the internet! Not sure how to do something - just look up a tutorial. I even stumbled upon a kind of sewing class. I am learning to sew all over again using Oliver + S patterns. They make beautiful patterns for children's clothes. They are organized by ability and start out with 2 free patterns, a little skirt and a sundress. The whole group of lessons can be found here. I am so impressed with the patterns. They are really easy to follow and yet teach you how to make quality garments. Once you work your way through the whole group you really will have a great foundation in sewing.


I made the lazy day skirt the other day and it was so easy. Yesterday I made the popover sundress. With this pattern (available here)I learned how to make bias tape and finish the inside seams. While making this dress I also altered the pattern size for the first time. It was for ages 2 and up so I had to make it smaller to fit Sprite. The next time I make it (and I have plans for several more) I will make it a tad shorter and wider. I also plan on doing the french seams so that it is more comfortable for her and wont have any scratchy inside seams.