Straight Stitch Sewing for Beginners – tension, seams, hems

What you’ll learn
How to thread your machine for correct tension
How to check that your tension is correct for straight stitching
Stitch length for various applications
How to adjust your sewing machine foot pressure
2 methods to finish straight stitching; french seam and hem
How lining can finish garments using only straight stitch
Edgestitching
Complete a pencil case
Complete a cardholder

Requirements
A working sewing machine
Scissors
Ruler/Measuring Tape
Pins
Pencil
Iron
Woven non stretch fabric (2 colours/patterns preferable)
Matching thread
Zip
Elastic

Description
The course covers 5 sections:an introductionhow to set up your sewing machine to get your thread tension, foot pressure and stitch length correct (including a quiz).how to do french seams, hems, linings and edgestitching using straight stitch. how to make a lined pencilcase with the skills learnt.how to make a cardholder using the skills learnt. The course uses video footage of an older domestic sewing machine with simple adjustable parts. Mention is made of how other models may be set up, but reference is to parts and systems that all simple domestic machines have.The course is meant for beginners that are using a simple domestic machine as a way to make simple items for themselves, friends as gifts and/or items to be made for sale. The 2 items that are made are finished well, so that they are suitable for sale. They are also quick to make in repetition, using only a small amount of fabric and notions. The pencil case and cardholder can be changed in size and fabric type so that other items can be made, like toiletries bags, makeup bags, tissue holders, nappy wallets, and wet bags (instruction not included for these items). Requirements of equipment to be able to complete the course:A sewing machine (only needs to be able to sew straight stitch).Sewing machine needles to suit the fabric type and weight.Light/mid-weight woven fabric (preferably quilting); 100 x 110cm or 4 fat quarters.Small scraps of fabric for testing your machine.Matching thread1  matching zip (20 – 30 cm)16cm elastic (3 – 10mm width, as preferred)ScissorsPinsRuler or measuring tapeIronPencil (preferable tailors chalk pencil) for marking fabric.

Who this course is for
Beginner to intermediate sewers who want to complete well-finished garments with a straight stitch only.
Beginner sewers who want to make simple gifts or items for sale.