7 Things Every Beginner Sewer Should Know

A practical guide to getting started with garment sewing—without the overwhelm.

Learning how to sew is one of the most empowering and creative skills you can pick up. But if you're just starting out, it can also feel a little... confusing. Do you need a fancy machine? What supplies should you actually invest in? What’s the best first project?

In this post, I’m breaking down the seven most important things every beginner sewer should know—along with helpful links to videos, resources, and a few tools that’ll save you from common beginner mistakes. If you're just getting started, or you’ve hit a few bumps along the way, this guide will help set you up for long-term success.

1. Know Your Tools

Before you make your first stitch, it’s important to get familiar with the basic tools of the trade.

• A reliable sewing machine is essential. You don’t need the most expensive model, but you do need to know how yours works. If you’re not sure where to begin, I walk through the essential machine features in this beginner-friendly video.

• Invest in good fabric scissors and use them only for fabric. I personally love Kai scissors, but any dedicated pair is better than the ones from your kitchen drawer.

• Measuring tools like a seam gauge, measuring tape, and quilting ruler are key for getting accurate cuts and seam allowances. You can find my recommended beginner tools on my Amazon Storefront.

2. Understand Fabric Basics

Fabric is half the sewing equation, and choosing the wrong one can make an easy project feel impossible. Cotton is a great place to start—it’s stable, easy to press, and widely available.

If you’re not sure what fabric goes with what pattern, download my free Fabric Pairing Guide right here. It breaks down fabric types, drape, stretch, and what to use for different kinds of garments.

3. Choose the Right Pattern

Beginner sewing patterns are labeled as such for a reason—they’re designed with simpler construction, fewer pieces, and easier instructions. Skip the temptation to start with something complex.

I put together a list of 3 beginner-friendly sewing patterns that will help you learn core skills while making something you’ll actually want to wear.

Once you’ve picked a pattern, take the time to read through the instructions before cutting anything. If your pattern feels overwhelming, look for a matching sew-along video. You’ll find a growing collection of free sew-alongs on my YouTube channel that guide you step-by-step.

4. Learn to Sew the Core Stitches

You don’t need to know every stitch on your machine right away. Focus on mastering the basics:

• Straight stitch for seams

• Backstitch for reinforcement

• Zigzag stitch to prevent fraying

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Practice these on scrap fabric until you feel confident. In my Beginner Sewing Machine Tips video, I go over how to adjust your stitch length and tension for different types of fabric.

5. Cut Your Fabric Carefully

Cutting accurately is just as important as sewing neatly. Use pattern weights instead of pins to avoid shifting, and always cut on a hard, flat surface. A rotary cutter and self-healing mat can make cutting faster and more precise.

6. Start with Simple Projects

Your first few projects should focus on building confidence. Some of the best beginner projects include:

• Elastic waist skirts – simple seams, forgiving fit

• Headbands or scrunchies – quick, practical, and great for practicing curved seams

  
  

7. Build Your Skills Over Time

You don’t need to learn everything all at once. Sewing is a journey, and progress happens with each project. But if you want focused guidance that lays out the learning curve clearly—without all the YouTube rabbit holes—I’ve got you covered.

My Garment Sewing Basics e-course launches July 1. It’s designed specifically for beginners and covers everything from choosing fabric to finishing your first handmade garment. You'll get structured video lessons, curated resources, and personal support to help you succeed.

Click here to join the waitlist and be the first to know when it goes live.

Prefer to work one-on-one? I also offer virtual sewing lessons where we can tackle your specific questions together—machine setup, fitting advice, fabric selection, or troubleshooting tricky techniques.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing you can do as a beginner is to keep sewing. Your stitches may not be perfect at first, but every finished project teaches you something new. The best way to learn is by doing—and you don’t have to do it alone.

Explore more beginner tutorials and sew-alongs on my YouTube channel, or sign up for a virtual lesson if you want personalized help.

And don’t forget—if you’re serious about getting a strong foundation, join the waitlist for the Garment Sewing Basics e-course launching July 1. I’d love to sew with you.