My First Steps

It am very excited to learn more about sewing.  To be sure, I am a total beginner seamstress.  I have made a few very simple garments, but haven't ventured beyond everyday fabrics.  In fact, I am only just about to have my first go at knits and a full bust adjustment.  So wish me luck! I don't own a walking foot.  I was hoping that Barbara Deckert's Craftsy class on Plus Sized Pattern Fitting and Design would be helpful, but it really wasn't.  (I will write a formal review later.)

Anyhow, here is my plan: 

I will continue to sew for my son and myself. 

I will start with pattern fitting and a bit of hand embroidery. 

I also will be trying to get more well acquainted with my sewing machine. 

Next, if I can get a copy of the book, I would like to sew my way through Sarai Mitnick's The Collette Sewing Handbook.  I will work on pattern fitting through this whole process.

I will take Pam Howard's The Classic Tailored Shirt and make my 3 year old a shirt.  This will help me learn the process of making shirts.

I will also be trying my hand at some simple drafting: shorts for my son and a bodice for me.

Then, I will begin on my journey to more couture sewing.

I will read Claire Shaeffer's Couture Sewing Techniques, practicing all that I find in the pages.

I will take Susan Khalje's Craftsy Class The Couture Dress class and make a dress that way. (I am thinking that I will make the Cottage Mama Party Dress using those techniques.  It will be a birthday present for my niece.)

I  also will be trying to get a copy of Claire Shaeffer's Fabric Sewing Guide. 

I will also be looking into Connie Long's Sewing With Knits.

I will also be looking into Susan Khalje's Bridal Couture and Cotton and Linen.

Next, I will embark on learning a bit of tailoring.

I will take Stephanie Lincecum's Classic Tailoring: The Blazer and make a blazer for my 3 year old son.

I also will be trying some fly front pants. 

Finally, I will try smocking and heirloom sewing.  I want to look at Sewing for a Royal Baby by the editors of Sew Beautiful Magazine and Perfect Party Dresses by Susan O'Conner. 

I will be thrifting the fabric for most of these projects: sheets and old garments from the Salvation Army and Goodwill so that my budget will permit plenty of practice. Now to find the time to practice.  Lol. 

The plan is subject to change, but...

My goals are to make homecoming, prom, and christening gowns.  So here we go!

Baby Steps!