Beginners: Start Here – Stitch Study

Just learning to sew? Here are our most helpful resources to get started.

Have a question? Email amy@stitchstudy.com.

Find What Works for You

When you’re first starting out, you may be confused by teachers who have different ways of doing things: one teacher recommends tracing patterns, while another cuts straight into the tissue. Which method is right? Whatever works for you. There are multiple ways to get to the same destination.

Seek out different techniques so that you can discover what you like best. Use scraps of fabric to test your methods before you move on to the real thing.

Use Sewing Classes as a Testing Ground

Working with a sewing teacher in person can help you address your specific challenges. Not sure where to start? Use StitchStudy.com to find a sewing teacher near you.

Keep in mind that with most in-person classes, you’re limited by time and may not be able to produce a flawless project. Your sewing classes are for you to learn and experiment. Don’t go into a class seeking perfection. You can perfect your project when you have more time at home.

Recommended Sewing Books

Love at First Stitch: Demystifying Dressmaking

Tilly explains sewing concepts in a way that’s easy to understand and includes 5 sewing patterns.

Stretch! Make Yourself Comfortable Sewing with Knit Fabrics

Stretch fabrics can seem intimidating, but they’re comfortable to wear and easy to sew (once you know how).

Gertie’s Ultimate Dress Book: A Modern Guide to Sewing Fabulous Vintage Styles

If you want to make dresses, Gertie’s book will be your go-to. She provides details on both vintage and modern sewing techniques.

Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Sewing

Reader’s Digest is an affordable reference book that you can keep on-hand next to your sewing machine.

School of Sewing

This book walks you through the basics and is ideal for those who are just starting to sew (who have completed 0-2 projects).

The Complete Photo Guide to Perfect Fitting

Technically, this isn’t a beginner book, but if you want to sew clothing, you need to know how to fit your patterns.

Couture Sewing Techniques

Also not a beginner book, but couture sewing techniques, such as hand sewing, can improve the quality of your sewing and are useful at any time.

How to Start Sewing

This is a giant book that covers almost any sewing technique imaginable. It’s a little dry, so it shouldn’t be your only reference.

The Great British Sewing Book: The Skills

The Great British Sewing Bee: The Skills

While not as comprehensive as other books, The Skills has an easy-to-understand guide on pattern matching.